This Week in Startups

Amy Dockser Marcus, a health and science reporter for the Wall Street Journal, delves into the shocking uBiome fraud scandal, detailing the similarities to the Theranos case. She discusses the ethical dilemmas surrounding innovative health tech and citizen science. The conversation highlights the significant challenges journalists face in uncovering truths in the startup world. Marcus also explores the allure of charismatic founders and the dangers of deception in the healthcare sector, stressing the need for integrity and transparency.

Ben Gilbert and David Rosenthal, co-hosts of Acquired FM, delve into the world of startups and venture capital. They explore the excitement of rebuilding social ties post-pandemic and share their nostalgic trips to Disneyland. The discussion shifts to soaring pre-money valuations and the rise of new investment syndicates. They analyze the dynamics of angel investing and a fun March Madness-style competition to find the world’s best private company. Lastly, they evaluate startups like SpaceX and Rivian, weighing future valuations in the tech landscape.

Becki DeGraw, a legal expert from Wilson Sonsini, shares invaluable insights for first-time founders. She breaks down common legal, financial, and HR mistakes that can derail startups. The discussion highlights the critical 83B election for stock, emphasizing its tax implications. Becki also clarifies the importance of corporate appointments and the nuances of signing authority. They delve into the rise of secondary shares in Series B funding and the significant considerations surrounding business structures for growing companies.

Microsoft is in talks to acquire Discord for over $10 billion, igniting discussions on the strategic implications of the deal. The podcast delves into Discord's evolution as a key communication platform, particularly in gaming. Experts analyze how this acquisition could reshape the tech landscape and enhance Microsoft's gaming strategy. Comparing this potential buy to other successful acquisitions, the conversation highlights challenges and opportunities in managing vibrant online communities while projecting future impacts on user engagement.

Zach Coelius, a savvy angel investor specializing in marketplaces and early-stage ventures, breaks down the essentials of launching profitable marketplaces. He shares strategies for angel investing on platforms like AngelList, emphasizing personal relationships and nurturing investor engagement. Zach also touches on the risks of venture capital, the significance of demonstrating traction, and the evolving landscape of equity crowdfunding. Amidst it all, he injects humor and creative insights, making the journey of investing and entrepreneurship both informative and entertaining.

Joanne Wilson, an angel investor and founder of Gotham Gal Ventures, shares her insights on navigating the complex landscape of early-stage investments in NYC. She discusses the impact of post-pandemic changes on real estate and the restaurant industry, advocating for systemic improvements. Joanne also reflects on market bubbles, urging caution in startup valuations. The conversation highlights the rising influence of women in venture capital and the importance of supportive networks for underrepresented founders in an evolving market.

Sahil Lavingia, the Founder of Gumroad, discusses his groundbreaking equity crowdfunding raise, which raised $5 million in just 12 hours. He shares insights into the challenges founders face when navigating the creator economy and raising venture capital. The conversation includes the emotional complexities of fundraising and the significance of resilience in entrepreneurship. Lavingia critiques the NFT space's spending and explores how equity crowdfunding democratizes investment for creators, highlighting the evolving relationship between art and ownership.

Cade Metz, a New York Times technology reporter and author of "Genius Makers," discusses the challenges of journalism in the age of AI. He critiques the growing influence of algorithmic moderation and the shift from optimistic to critical narratives in tech coverage. Metz surfaces the ethical implications of anonymity in journalism and the responsibilities of reporters amid polarized public opinions. He also explores the evolving conflict between tech giants and traditional media, shedding light on the intricacies of navigating truth in today’s digital discourse.

Zach Coelius, an angel investor renowned for his keen eye on emerging startups, dives into the changing landscape of venture capital, emphasizing new strategies like syndicates and crowdfunding. He explores challenges faced by mid-tier funds while shedding light on Tesla's aspirations beyond electric vehicles. The conversation touches on the significance of customer validation for startup success and comparisons between European and Silicon Valley ecosystems. Plus, there's a whimsical exchange about creating an exclusive private card club for unique investment experiences.

Join Becki DeGraw, a savvy attorney at Wilson Sonsini focused on startup legalities, as she unpacks the intricate world of stock options. Delve into the pros and cons of equity compensation and how it can attract talent even with lower salaries. Learn the nuances between preferred and common shares, and discover the impact of 409A valuations on stock prices. Becki also clarifies the differences between ISOs and NSOs, while emphasizing the critical need for precision in startup operations. Don't miss these essential lessons for navigating the startup landscape!