ACQ2 by Acquired

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.

The hosts dive into the joys and challenges of early parenthood, blending humor with heartfelt insights. They share experiences with a new MacBook Pro, praising its advancements over older models. A lively discussion follows about transitioning from audio to video production, emphasizing the importance of quality and professionalism. There are lighthearted anecdotes about family life and tech, along with reflections on audience engagement and the ever-evolving landscape of content creation.

In this insightful conversation, Adam Jackson, co-founder and CEO of Braintrust, discusses the revolutionary potential of Web3 marketplaces. He explains how Braintrust operates autonomously on the blockchain, prioritizing user ownership and governance. Adam shares the stark differences between traditional and decentralized systems, emphasizing fair compensation for tech talent in a remote-driven world. He critiques existing gig economy models and explores the innovative, community-focused approach that unlocks new opportunities for users and reduces transactional fees.

Roneil Rumberg, co-founder and CEO of Audius, dives into the revolutionary world of decentralized music streaming. He shares the inspiring journey of Audius from its 2018 inception, discussing the transformative power of blockchain technology in the music industry. The conversation touches on the tug-of-war between traditional labels and artist independence, while highlighting the platform's growth through integrations like TikTok. Rumberg also reveals the intricate balance between centralization and decentralization that Audius navigates to empower artists and enhance user experience.