Deep Dive Episodes

Feb. 20, 2024

Photonic Computing: Breakthroughs, Challenges and Insights with Denis…

In the latest episode of the Understanding VC podcast featuring Denis Kalinin, the discussion delves into Optical Computing. Denis covers various aspects, including the potential of optical processors compared to current technology, the distinct features of photonic computing, challenges faced in s…

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Jan. 16, 2024

Talent Investing in Building Successful Startups | Rahul from Entrepr…

In the latest episode of the Understanding VC podcast, Rahul Samat, Partner & India Head at Entrepreneur First discussing the essential traits Talent Investors seek and shares insights on identifying the right founders. Rahul discusses pivotal qualities of a great founder, exploring the impact of a…

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Dec. 13, 2023

Understanding the Shifting Landscape of Fundraising Negotiations in I…

In the latest episode of Understanding VC, Mehak Khanna, a seasoned corporate lawyer with extensive experience, delves into critical aspects of the startup ecosystem. She explores topics ranging from startup convertible notes and challenges in Indian startup regulations to foreign fundraising issue…

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Dec. 4, 2023

Building a VC Firm to Last | Hussein Kanji from Hoxton Ventures

In the latest episode of Understanding VC, Hussein Kanji, Partner at Hoxton Ventures, shares invaluable insights on building an enduring VC firm. From navigating the challenges of transitioning from a boutique to an enduring institution to the nuances of partnership culture, Hussein delves into cri…

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Nov. 30, 2023

Understanding Voluntary Carbon Markets with Maryanna Saenko from Futu…

In this episode of the Understanding VC podcast, I engage in an enlightening conversation with Maryanna Saenko, the Co-founder and Partner at Future Ventures, about the voluntary carbon markets. We examine the importance and potential of voluntary carbon markets, differentiating it from the complia…

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Nov. 28, 2023

Transforming Indian Agriculture: Navigating Challenges and Seizing Op…

In the latest episode of Understanding VC, we explore the intricacies of Indian agriculture with Mark Kahn. We uncover historical insights and contemporary challenges, delving into the impact of COVID and unique opportunities for tech investment. Kahn highlights life sciences' role in addressing di…

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Nov. 14, 2023

Accelerate to Success: Decoding Startup Accelerators with Michael Car…

In this episode of the Understanding VC podcast, I discuss startup accelerators, and their role in supporting startups, with Michael Cardamone, CEO and Managing Partner at Forum Ventures. We discuss the pros and cons of joining an accelerator, including the equity trade-off and the challenges faced…

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Nov. 7, 2023

Why solo capitalists are winning with Itamar Novick from Recursive Ve…

In the latest episode of the Understanding VC podcast, Itamar Novick, founder of Recursive Ventures, discusses the world of solo capitalists, exploring their benefits for founders, challenges they face, and the evolving landscape of venture capital. The conversation delves into topics such as LP in…

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Oct. 12, 2023

7 Strategies to Build a Powerful Board to Drive Startup Success with …

Dive into the world of startup boards with Joe Leech in this illuminating discussion. Learn the key distinctions between board governance and decision-making, discover the core responsibilities of directors, and identify the ideal timing for forming a board. Uncover the roles of 'board chairpersons…

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Oct. 4, 2023

Understanding Due Diligence for Early Stage Startups with Caroline Ca…

In the latest episode of the Understanding VC podcast with Caroline Casson, Partner at VITALIZE Venture Capital, Caroline shares her insights on the critical aspects of due diligence for early stage startups in venture capital. She emphasizes its importance for informed investment decisions and res…

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Sept. 26, 2023

Why founders should also be investors with Jyri Engeström from Yes VC

In this episode of the Understanding VC podcast, Jyri Engeström, Partner at Yes VC, makes the argument that startup founders should also be startup investors and he has created a deck on how to do it. You can find the deck in the show notes. He discusses the concept of "Dual Threat CEOs," the bene…

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Aug. 15, 2023

Investing in Quantum Computing: VC's Perspective with Ion Hauer from …

In this episode, Ion Hauer, Principal at APEX Ventures, discusses quantum computing's core concepts and challenges. Covering quantum basics, hardware architectures, and progress, Ion highlights the significance of quantum cryptography and its impact on industries. The conversation includes insights…

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Aug. 8, 2023

UVC: Brian Nichols from Angel Squad on What Angel Investing Is, How t…

In this episode of the Understanding VC podcast, Brian Nichols, founder of Angel Squad, provides a concise yet enlightening overview of angel investing. He covers key questions about angel investors' roles, investment sizes, differences from venture capital, and its historical US dominance. The co…

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April 11, 2023

Deep Dive: The Power of Relationships - Connect the Dots, sales, recr…

In this episode of Understanding VC, we talk to Drew Sechrist, the founder of Connect the Dots, a powerful relationship intelligence platform designed to help professionals manage their networks. Drew shares his journey from his time at Salesforce to starting his own company, and discusses the impo…

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Jan. 17, 2023

Deep Dive: VC Term Sheets with Siddharth Mody

Understanding VC is a deep dive on how venture capitalists work. In this episode, I have an insightful conversation with Siddharth Mody, a senior partner at Desai and Diwanji, a law firm based in Mumbai, India. This episode dives deep into understanding and breaking down multiple elements of a term…

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