ACQ2 by Acquired

Ted Seides, host of the Capital Allocators podcast, interviews Ben Gilbert and David Rosenthal, venture capitalists and podcast hosts. They share their innovative paths into the tech industry and the birth of their podcast. The trio discusses the evolution of venture capital post-tech bubble, the rising prevalence of angel investing, and the impact of abundant capital on the market. They also dive into the transformative potential of cryptocurrency and reflect on personal growth through mentorship, all while maintaining an engaging, entertaining vibe.

Get a cup of coffee. We sit down with the voice of one of our favorite Twitter accounts, 10-K Diver, to talk about his journey building one of the most widely followed (and respected!) fintwit accounts out there. We had a blast and — of course — learned a ton from one of the greats!!You can get this episode in your favorite podcast player here!Sponsors:Koyfin: https://bit.ly/acquiredkoyfin

In this engaging discussion, Brad Slingerland and John Bathgate, co-founders of NZS Capital, explore the current complexities of financial markets amid rising interest rates and inflation. They share insights on adaptive investment strategies, emphasizing the importance of resilience and optionality when evaluating major tech giants like Meta and NVIDIA. The conversation highlights the critical role of semiconductors and the psychological challenges investors face during volatility, offering a compelling perspective on navigating today's market landscape.

Chris McCann and Edith Yeung, partners at Race Capital, dive into their remarkable journey as early investors in Solana and FTX, calling it one of history’s best venture deals. They share insights from the tumultuous world of crypto through personal narratives and discuss significant milestones in their careers. The conversation touches on the evolution of cryptocurrency investments, the challenges faced during market downturns, and their innovative strategies for identifying promising projects in the ever-shifting landscape.

Jeremy Cai, CEO of Italic and former COO of Fountain, dives into the innovative approach of his company that connects high-end manufacturers directly with consumers. He discusses how this model disrupts traditional retail by eliminating brands, allowing manufacturers to market their own products. The conversation also touches on the evolution of membership models in e-commerce, the impact of digital tools on manufacturing, and the challenges of navigating relationships in a rapidly changing market.

Join Packy McCormick, a dynamic writer and investor behind Not Boring, and Mario Gabriele, the insightful mind behind The Generalist, as they toast to a transformative 2021. They explore the quirks of social media, the rapid evolution of the Web3 landscape, and the complexities of venture capital. With lighthearted reflections on personal growth and storytelling, they share anticipation for diving into new topics in 2022, from cryptocurrency to innovative consumer products, all while embracing the joys of friendship and collaboration.

Wesley Chan, an early investor in Canva and partner at Felicis Ventures, shares fascinating insights from his journey investing in mission-driven companies. He recounts his first encounter with Canva's founders, revealing their innovative vision for design tools. Wesley discusses the challenges of global investing and the importance of personal connections in decision-making. He advocates for investing in passionate founders who have a long-term vision, emphasizing the key difference between mission-driven and mercenary entrepreneurs.

Rob Meyerson, former president of Blue Origin and now an investor in the space sector, shares fascinating insights about the evolution of the commercial space industry. He recounts the early days of Blue Origin before they launched rockets and his dynamic experience working with Jeff Bezos. The discussion also touches on contrasting landing philosophies between Blue Origin and SpaceX, the surge in private space investments, and sectors poised for growth in the new space economy. Meyerson's perspectives illuminate the future of aerospace innovation.

Join Jason Calacanis, a seasoned entrepreneur and investor known for his work on This Week in Startups, as he dives into a spirited holiday special with Ben and David. They discuss the captivating year in startups, covering everything from intriguing weight loss stories to the complexities of venture capital and crypto investing. Expect insights on startup valuations and the challenges of navigating friendships in the industry. Plus, enjoy some light-hearted banter about gourmet gift ideas, wine pairings, and the quirks of private aviation!

In a vibrant conversation, acclaimed actor Joseph Gordon-Levitt shares insights as the co-founder of HITRECORD, a creative collaborative platform. He delves into the essence of the creative process, advocating for meaningful experiences over mere outcomes. Joseph discusses the impact of streaming on the film industry, and reflects on his role as Travis Kalanick in 'Super Pumped.' He also emphasizes community building and authenticity in the digital age, highlighting how connection fosters creativity and innovation.