Stephen Bluestein, a partner at Adams Street Partners with a rich history in venture capital, shares insights with LP Beezer Clarkson. They explore what defines a franchise fund and the intricate process of achieving that status. Topics include the essential performance metrics needed to qualify as a franchise and the necessary adaptability for ongoing success. Bluestein emphasizes the importance of intentionality and maintaining a strong brand. This conversation is a treasure trove for anyone looking to understand the nuances of venture capital.

Nick Chirls, GP at Asylum Ventures,  and Beezer Clarkson, LP at Sapphire Partners go deep into their recent conversation with Wesley Chan, the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of FPV Ventures. They unpack Wesley’s direct learnings from Sergey Brin coming up at Google, how it is the job of the investor to spot greatness, his views on company pivots (and how they oppose another recent guest, Mike Maples’ views on pivots), the difficulties of thinking independently in Silicon Valley, and the serendipitous way Wesley and Sapphire Partners wound up working together in the first place. Plus Nick, it turns out, is kind of a tax guy. He and Beezer discuss the hidden benefits of being an expert on QSBS. Learn more about Sapphire Partners: sapphireventures.com/sapphire-partners Learn more about OpenLP: openlp.vc Learn more about Asylum Ventures: asylum.vc Learn more about FPV Ventures: fpvventures.com Read Laura Thompson’s article on QSBS: sapphireventures.com/blog/how-lps-gps-and-founders-can-leverage-qsbs-to-make-more-money/ Listen to Mike Maples & Jai Das discuss pivots: open.spotify.com/show/23H0tOX63xMChV2SErQKnZ?si=a9aab8b3e4c34dde Subscribe to the OpenLP newsletter for a monthly roundup of the latest venture insights, including the newest Origins episodes, delivered straight to your inbox.

Wesley Chan, co-founder of FPV Ventures and former Chief of Staff to Sergey Brin at Google, shares his remarkable journey in Silicon Valley. He reflects on his mantra that if you're not changing the world, you're wasting your time. Wesley discusses the importance of high standards in innovation and his philosophy on seeking founders with 100-year plans. He emphasizes fostering long-term impact over short-term gains and the significance of trust in the venture capital-founder dynamic. His insights illuminate what it takes to craft timeless ventures.

Two seasoned venture capitalists delve into the pivotal roles of team dynamics and strategic pivots in startup success. They explore the crucial question of what changes and what remains constant in seed versus growth investing. Key discussions include the value of customer insights and the balance between innovation and competition. The importance of timing and understanding market nuances also takes center stage, emphasizing that at its core, venture capital is about backing the right people.

Jai Das, President and Partner at Sapphire Ventures, is a veteran in enterprise investing with a portfolio that includes Box and Square. Mike Maples Jr., co-founder of Floodgate, is a pioneer of seed investing with successes like Twitter and Lyft. They discuss their contrasting focuses in venture capital and the challenges of identifying future winners. The conversation dives into how AI reshapes investment opportunities, the importance of adaptable management teams, and navigating exit strategies in a shifting market.

A look at what’s to come on a brand new season of Origins, where we’ll dive into the VC ecosystem with the people who know it best, to learn how the people behind the capital really make decisions. Learn more about Sapphire Partners: https://sapphireventures.com/sapphire-partners/ Learn more about Asylum Ventures: asylum.vc

Jack Altman, a former VC-backed founder turned angel and institutional investor, shares insights into his dynamic journey in venture capital. He discusses the transition from using personal capital to managing LP dollars, revealing where he feels confident taking risks. The conversation highlights the founding philosophy of Asylum Ventures, which emphasizes treating founders as artists and fostering genuine relationships. Additionally, they touch on the rise of podcasts in industry communication and the innovative community events blending art and entrepreneurship in New York.

Jack Altman, a venture capitalist and founder of HR platform Lattice, shares insights from his journey transitioning from angel investor to institutional investor. Alongside Nick Chirls of Asylum Ventures and Beezer Clarkson of Sapphire Partners, he discusses the significance of building a strong reputation and making swift decisions as a founder. Jack emphasizes the art of ruthless prioritization, balancing family life with a demanding career, and the distinctive dynamics of investing personal versus institutional capital. His personal anecdotes and practical advice make for an engaging conversation.

Join Jason Shuman, a contrarian investor known for his unique approach, and Will Quist, an investor focused on the startup-Venture Capital relationship, as they uncover the true value VCs bring to the table. They discuss the art of contrarian investing, emphasizing market timing and strategic clarity. The conversation dives into the complex interplay between startups and VCs, highlighting how strong relationships and alignment between investors and founders can either make or break a venture's success. Tune in for insights on navigating the venture capital landscape!

Join Jason Shuman, a Primary GP focused on impact investing, and Will Quist, a Partner at Slow Ventures known for his unique firm-building approach, as they delve into the world of non-consensus investing. They discuss the risks and opportunities of zigging while the market zags and reveal how to spot disruptive companies from day one. The conversation also touches on the evolving role of VCs, the significance of founder support, and how impact teams can drive seed stage success.