Invest Like the Best with Patrick O'Shaughnessy

Nick Kokonas, co-founder of iconic restaurants like Alinea and CEO of Tock, shares his transformative journey through the restaurant industry with a unique business lens. He discusses the importance of ownership and entrepreneurial mindset, especially within immigrant communities. Kokonas highlights innovative dining experiences and strategizes on revenue enhancements post-COVID-19, emphasizing effective customer engagement. His insights on navigating crises in the restaurant sector reveal resilience-driven adaptations and the value of authentic communication amidst challenges.

Des Traynor, co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Intercom, shares his expertise on AI's transformative role in customer service. He delves into how their OpenAI-powered bot, Fin, enhances business efficiency while navigating the balance between automation and human touch. Traynor also discusses the competitive landscape of AI providers and the financial dynamics of customer support in tech. He offers insights on startup investment challenges and the importance of unique value propositions, emphasizing the delicate balance between simplicity and complexity in software development.

Samo Burja, founder of Bismarck Analysis, dives into the 'great founder theory' and examines how remarkable individuals have shaped civilizations through their institutions. He discusses historical figures like Napoleon and Benjamin Franklin, highlighting their complex legacies and the moral dilemmas they faced. Burja also critiques linear narratives of progress, arguing that societal stability relies on strong institutions and visionary leadership. Additionally, he explores future geopolitical trends, particularly in China and the UAE, pondering the implications for global power dynamics.

Chris Paik, General Partner at Pace Capital and former board member at Twitch, shares his unique investment frameworks. He discusses concepts like atomic value swaps and business model fit, along with the evolving landscape of consumer trends such as virtual YouTubers and Apple’s Vision Pro. Paik also delves into the 'seven deadly sins' as motivators for entrepreneurship and emphasizes the shift in marketplace dynamics that impact investment decisions. His insights shed light on how technology and human behavior shape the future of venture investing.

Josh Kushner, the founder and managing partner of Thrive Capital, shares insights from his venture capital journey. He discusses the pivotal role of founders in driving innovation and the importance of listening for personal growth. Kushner also dives into his healthcare startup experiences, emphasizing the transformative impact of technology on the industry. He reflects on talent acquisition strategies, highlights the significance of long-term investment perspectives, and cautiously approaches new trends like crypto while exploring opportunities in fintech.

Jeremy Giffon, the first employee and general partner at Tiny, shares his unique insights into private equity, focusing on special situations created by misaligned incentives. He discusses mastering investment dynamics by understanding buyer-seller relationships and emphasizes the importance of qualitative assessments in identifying high-quality investments. The conversation also delves into resilience shaped by personal adversity, the significance of navigating cultural differences in funding, and the value of managing resentment in partnerships, all while encouraging individuality and personal growth.

Dave Yuan, Founder and Partner of Tidemark Capital, shares his extensive experience in vertical market software (VMS) investing. He discusses the transformative potential of VMS for small businesses, especially during crises like COVID-19. Yuan highlights the importance of trust in the value chain and effective marketing strategies. He also delves into customer retention metrics and strategies to boost product engagement. Additionally, he shares insights on integrating multi-product strategies and the innovative software revolutionizing the casting market.

Kevin Kelly, co-founder of Wired magazine and author renowned for his insights on technology, discusses the importance of being generous and unique. He explores themes like the balance of work and wealth, urging listeners to view money as a tool rather than an end goal. Kelly also dives into the value of imagination in creativity, enhanced by AI, and the need for family rituals to strengthen bonds. He emphasizes effective communication in relationships and shares a personal story highlighting how kindness and uniqueness can lead to meaningful connections.

In this discussion, Justin Mares, founder of TrueMed and multiple health food brands, highlights the alarming health crisis in the U.S. and its potential economic repercussions. He explores the detrimental effects of modern diets, critiques the pharmaceutical approach to health issues, and emphasizes the importance of lifestyle changes. Justin shares insights on the influence of corporate practices on public health, the pressing water quality concerns, and the vital need for innovation in health-focused brands, alongside discussing the rise of multi-company entrepreneurs.

Scott Goodwin, co-founder of Diameter Capital Partners, shares insights from his impressive journey in investment management. He discusses the shift from equity to credit investing, emphasizing the need for new skills in the current economic climate. Goodwin also highlights the importance of mentorship and team culture in navigating asset management. He explores the evolving role of AI in finance, potential changes in credit markets, and the vital relationship with limited partners, providing a comprehensive view of modern investment strategies.