Acquired

Discover how Amazon evolved from an online book retailer into a powerhouse in cloud computing with AWS. The discussion dives into the surprising profit margins of AWS versus retail, its innovative business models, and the complexities of Amazon's infrastructure. Explore the strategic evolution of AWS and its impact on startups, the competitive cloud landscape, and even the cultural reflections of Amazon's broader influence. It’s a fascinating journey through technology and entrepreneurial vision.

Join legendary investor Howard Marks, co-founder of Oaktree Capital, and his son Andrew Marks, founder of TQ Ventures, as they explore the intriguing synergy between value and growth investing. They discuss Howard's influential memo on this dynamic, share insights on navigating volatile markets, and reveal how their father-son collaboration enriched their perspectives. The conversation also touches on assessing founders beyond credentials and the psychological intricacies of investment decisions. It's a fascinating dive into modern investing, blending wisdom and fresh perspectives!

Dive into the extraordinary evolution of Amazon.com and its unparalleled impact on e-commerce and modern life. Explore how Jeff Bezos's vision transformed the retail landscape, the challenges faced in the early days, and Amazon's strategic moves against competitors like eBay. Discover the innovative birth of the Kindle and the significance of Amazon's subscription model for customer loyalty. Lastly, delve into Bezos' long-term approach to maximizing future cash flows, shaping how businesses think about growth and investment.

Anthony Gonzalez, a former NFL player turned U.S. Congressman from Ohio, shares his fascinating journey from sports to politics. He discusses his pivotal role on the House Financial Services Committee, focusing on cryptocurrency regulation and navigating the complexities of Web3. Gonzalez reflects on his immigrant roots, the decision to impeach former President Trump, and the importance of bipartisan collaboration amid the evolving crypto landscape. He also emphasizes the significance of grassroots support in political campaigns and engaging citizens in democracy.

Dive into the remarkable journey of Walmart, led by the visionary Sam Walton. Discover how Walmart revolutionized retail and influenced giants like Amazon. Unpack the family's enduring legacy and Sam's humble beginnings in the Great Depression. Explore Walmart’s strategic evolution in e-commerce, warehouse logistics, and its competition against Amazon and Costco. Finally, reflect on Walmart's complex societal impact and how it has shaped local economies while navigating modern retail challenges.

Discover key insights drawn from over 200 tech company stories, highlighting themes like resilience and innovation. Hear about the inspiring journeys of entrepreneurs who started with rice cookers and transformed markets. Delve into the challenges of navigating venture capital, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and a seasoned perspective. Explore how technology enhances business operations, and learn the value of owning one’s narrative in media through examples like Oprah and Taylor Swift. It's a treasure trove of entrepreneurial wisdom!

Katherine Boyle, General Partner at Andreessen Horowitz, shares her journey from journalism to venture capital, shedding light on the concept of 'American Dynamism'. She emphasizes the urgency of investing in innovation across sectors like defense and education, especially after COVID-19 shifted the VC landscape. The discussion covers the evolving partnership between Silicon Valley and government, the rise of diverse founders, and how technology is transforming entrepreneurship and vital sectors, fostering a more inclusive and dynamic innovation culture.

Join Eric Yuan, the innovative CEO behind Zoom, and Peter Gassner, the mastermind of Veeva Systems, as they dive into the art of capital-efficient growth. They reveal how to achieve massive success with minimal investment, share insights on navigating the complex fundraising landscape, and discuss the critical role of product excellence and team dynamics. They also emphasize the balance between ambition and caution in business, offering valuable lessons for aspiring founders and investors alike.

Jim Weber, CEO of Brooks Running, shares his journey of transforming Brooks from a cash-strapped brand into a billion-dollar powerhouse. He discusses the innovative strategies that fueled their growth, including a focus on culture and inclusivity in running. Weber reflects on leadership lessons learned during tough times, like the pandemic and the Great Recession, emphasizing the importance of community and customer loyalty. His insights reveal how strategic pivots and a commitment to quality reshaped the brand into a top performer in the fitness market.

Packy McCormick, a prolific writer and investor behind the "Not Boring" newsletter, shares insights from the lively Idea Dinner. He discusses investment ideas from tech to real estate, analyzing key players like Snowflake and Opendoor with humor. Anu Hariharan, managing partner at Y Combinator's Continuity Fund, offers a unique perspective on late-stage investments, emphasizing community and peer learning. Together, they reflect on the evolving venture capital landscape and the importance of narratives in investing.