ACQ2 by Acquired

Ben Grynol, head of growth at Levels and an Acquired “Super LP,” engages in a lively discussion with David Rosenthal, a VC. They explore the difference between single-threaded companies like Netflix and ecosystem-driven giants like Amazon. Grynol shares insights on building a health ecosystem with Levels, the risks of relying on a single platform, and the importance of adaptability in business models. They also touch on the evolving landscape of video consumption and how companies can innovate to capture emerging trends.

Matt McBrady, a seasoned expert in macroeconomics and former US Treasury official, breaks down complex financial concepts with clarity. He explains the intricacies of money supply metrics like M1 and M2 and their connections to inflation. The discussion also covers the historical evolution and critical role of the Federal Reserve in stabilizing the banking system, especially during crises like COVID-19. McBrady sheds light on the evolving landscape of credit and the challenges of monetary policy amid economic disparities.

In this engaging discussion, Kim-Mai Cutler, a Partner at Initialized Capital and former TechCrunch journalist, shares her unique journey from covering financial crises to venture capital. She highlights the evolution of reporting in tech and how it intertwines with investment strategies. The conversation touches on the critical role of media for startups, the importance of branding in talent acquisition, and her advocacy for housing policy reforms in California. Kim-Mai's insights on socioeconomic challenges in today's landscape are both illuminating and thought-provoking.

Kyle Samani, co-founder of Multicoin Capital, shares insights from one of the leading crypto investment firms. He discusses their three key "mega-theses" and the innovative structures behind their hedge and venture fund. The conversation dives into the challenges of decentralized finance (DeFi) and the revolutionary Helium network, which empowers personal internet hotspots. Samani also explores social tokens and their potential to meld financial value with community identity, plus the complex dynamics of managing a crypto fund in a fast-evolving market.

Garry Tan, founder of Initialized Capital and content creation expert, discusses the importance of owning your own media stream. He highlights how direct engagement with audiences builds trust and drives startup success. Tan contrasts traditional media with the authenticity of personal platforms, sharing insights from his experiences on YouTube and Clubhouse. He emphasizes community-building through audio platforms, showcasing how creators can innovate and grow by connecting deeply with niche audiences.

Oliver Sharp, co-founder of Highspot and former Microsoft insider, shares insights from his vast tech experience. He discusses how software companies can prioritize customer-led growth, turning clients into their secret weapon. The conversation delves into the importance of strong customer relationships, innovative content organization strategies, and the role of service in tech. Oliver also emphasizes effective communication and the shift from product-driven to relationship-focused business models. It's a deep dive into the architecture of successful customer engagement.

Josh Clemente, Founder of Levels, brings his expertise in metabolic health and continuous glucose monitoring to this engaging conversation. He discusses the surprising effects of different foods on blood sugar levels, revealing how oatmeal and even cheesecake can impact health. The episode also explores the role of genetics and lifestyle in individual metabolic responses, the challenges of weight loss, and the integration of digital health tech. With personal anecdotes and insights, Josh highlights the complexities of navigating metabolic health and fundraising for startups.

Lillian Li, a prominent China tech analyst and author of the Chinese Characteristics newsletter, delves deep into the complexities of Meituan and the evolving landscape of Chinese tech. She discusses the unique nuances of community group buying, especially in lower-tier cities, and the significant impact of government regulations. Listeners gain insights into the competitive rivalry between Meituan and Alibaba, and how shifts in alliances affect consumer behavior. Lillian also highlights the challenges faced by gig workers amidst the fierce competition in the industry.

Explore the journey of a fintech startup navigating the complexities of payment systems. Dive into the evolving dynamics of podcasting and community engagement, highlighting the significance of listener relationships. Discover insights on the innovative infrastructure that exists in smaller countries compared to the U.S. Learn about bridging the gap between technical demands and financial needs, while enjoying a fun Q&A session that sheds light on personal interests and influential figures in the podcasting world.

Jake Saper, General Partner at Emergence Capital, discusses the current state of the SaaS landscape and Emergence's Deep Collaboration strategy. He highlights how Figma has revolutionized embedded collaboration tools and why this trend is integral to their investments in companies like Ironclad and Maze. Saper also reflects on the tremendous success of the Zoom investment and underscores the importance of nurturing partnerships through coaching and dedicated time together to maintain momentum in the venture space.