Female VC Lab

Discover the Human Side of Venture Capital: Why Founder Wellbeing is the Next Big Thing What if the real secret to startup success isn’t just the business model—but the wellbeing of the founders behind it? In this episode of the Female VC Lab podcast, host Barbara Bickham sits down with Kristina Chapple, General Partner at 11 Tribes Ventures, for a refreshingly honest look at what it really takes to build companies that thrive for the long haul. Kristina shares how 11 Tribes is shaking up the venture world by putting founder health, relationships, and resilience at the heart of their thesis—and even putting real dollars to work to support it. If you’re a founder, investor, or anyone passionate about building sustainable companies, this episode is packed with actionable insights: from why traditional VC approaches fall short, to how supporting the “whole person” leads to better exits, stronger teams, and generational wealth creation. Kristina’s candid stories and practical advice will leave you rethinking what venture capital can—and should—look like in the years ahead. Guest Information Guest Name: Kristina Chapple Bio: Kristina Chapple is General Partner at 11 Tribes Ventures, a venture fund championing a new approach to supporting founders. Her focus: investing in both the business and the personal resilience of early-stage entrepreneurs. Links: 11 Tribes Ventures Website Kristina Chapple on LinkedIn Episode Outline Redefining the “Exit Conversation” in VC Kristina unpacks the traditional focus on business outcomes—and how 11 Tribes is pioneering “founder outcome” metrics, measuring impact on relationships, families, and founder health. Putting Founder Resilience Front and Center Learn how 11 Tribes allocates 2% of every investment for coaching, therapy, health, and even marriage counseling—non-dilutive capital dedicated to founder wellbeing. A Fresh Approach to Underwriting and Exits Why chasing the $1B unicorn isn’t the only path: 11 Tribes targets $50M-$300M middle-market exits, supporting lean teams and quicker returns while still offering life-changing outcomes for founders. Related Episodes & Additional Resources Book: “Personal History” by Katharine Graham (recommended in this episode) Transcript For a full transcript of this episode, visit the podcast website:  femalevclab.com Community & Calls to Action Primary CTA: Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts – Support the Female VC Lab by leaving your review! Leave a review here Follow us on social media: Female VC Lab Join the conversation: Share your thoughts and takeaways using #FemaleVCLab, and tag us on LinkedIn! Share this episode with a friend! If you enjoyed it, let us know your favorite takeaway and help spread the word about founder-first investing.

Ready to discover how venture capital can drive real impact for emerging markets—and what true leadership looks like in the investment world? In this episode of Female VC Lab, host Barbara Bickham sits down with Eva Yazhari, Managing Partner at Beyond Capital Ventures, for an unfiltered conversation on building a mission-driven VC fund, why conscious leadership matters, and how investing in Africa and India’s rising middle classes creates incredible opportunities for transformation. Tune in to hear Eva share how she moved from finance into venture capital, her relational approach to due diligence, why formalizing informal markets like smallholder farming is a game-changing thesis, and how she’s fostering community and alignment by giving GP carry to all team members—and even founders. Whether you’re an aspiring investor, a founder in emerging markets, or simply passionate about sustainable growth, you’ll walk away inspired and equipped with fresh insights into where VC is headed next. Guest Information Guest Name: Eva Yazhari Bio: Eva Yazhari is the Managing Partner of Beyond Capital Ventures, a purpose-driven venture capital firm investing in seed to Series A rounds across Africa and India. With roots in institutional finance, Eva brings a wealth of experience in fund management, deep due diligence, and impact investing, focusing on technologies and services that uplift the “need to haves” through conscious leadership and stakeholder alignment. Links: Beyond Capital Ventures LinkedIn – Eva Yazhari Instagram – @consciousinvestor The Good Your Money Can Do (Book) Episode Outline How Eva Yazhari Entered VC & Built Beyond Capital Ventures Hear Eva’s unconventional journey from math major to fund-of-funds to founding her own emerging markets VC, and the unique skill set she carried into her new role. Resource: Beyond Capital Ventures Team Formalizing Informal Markets in Emerging Economies Explore “formalizing the informal,” and learn how Beyond Capital Ventures invests in businesses that empower smallholder farmers and aggregate resources for scalable, sustainable impact, featuring a spotlight on agritech company Cinch. Resource: Portfolio Companies Conscious Leadership & Redefining VC Alignment Gain insight into Eva’s approach to authentic, stakeholder-centered leadership, including her innovative decision to share GP carry with both her team and portfolio founders—creating alignment and community while driving results. Resource: The Good Your Money Can Do Related Episodes & Additional Resources Book Recommendation: The Culture Code by Daniel Coyle – Eva’s pick for building strong, collaborative cultures Host & Show Info Host Name: Barbara Bickham About the Host: Barbara Bickham is the founder and Managing Partner of Trailyn Ventures, technology execut

Step into the world of impact investing with this captivating episode of Female VC Lab! Host Barbara Bickham sits down with Najada Kumbuli, Vice President and Head of Investments at the Visa Foundation, for an illuminating conversation on reshaping capitalism for the greater good. Discover how Najada’s journey from communist Albania to leading global VC strategies at Visa Foundation fuels her passion for social responsibility, small business empowerment, and inclusive innovation. Find out what’s next in venture capital, why AI and emerging markets are top of mind, and get a behind-the-scenes look at how the Visa Foundation backs entrepreneurs while driving lasting social impact. Whether you’re an investor, founder, or changemaker, you’ll leave inspired and equipped with actionable insights on building a more equitable future. Guest Information Guest Name: Najada Kumbuli Bio: Najada Kumbuli is the Vice President and Head of Investments at the Visa Foundation, where she champions impact investing and ecosystem growth for small businesses and entrepreneurs worldwide. Leveraging her unique upbringing in Albania and global expertise, Najada leads a holistic investment strategy with a focus on inclusion, sustainable growth, and measurable social impact. Links: Visa Foundation Website: https://usa.visa.com/about-visa/visa-foundation.html LinkedIn: Najada Kumbuli LinkedIn Episode Outline Origins & Inspiration for Impact Investing Najada shares her powerful personal journey from communist Albania to global investing, revealing what motivated her to pursue impact investing and advocate for “conscious capitalism.” Learn more about impact investing from the Visa Foundation Visa Foundation’s Investment Thesis & Global Strategy A deep dive into how the Visa Foundation’s thesis centers on championing small businesses with access to capital, digital tools, and financial skills—spanning micro-entrepreneurs in Nigeria to high-growth startups in India. Visa Foundation Annual Report: See their latest impact and portfolio highlights Trends Shaping the Future of Venture Capital Najada gives her perspective on what’s ahead for VC: the expanding role of AI and deep tech, greater discipline in investing, increased attention to emerging markets like Africa and Latin America, and the rise of responsible, impact-driven investments. Acquired Podcast – a favorite resource mentioned by Najada Resources for Founders & Fund Managers Discover how to get connected with the Visa Foundation, access reports, and tap into support and tools for scaling your impact-driven business. Contact Visa Foundation or access their resources Further Reading & Resources: Visa Foundation Impact Report: Read here Book: “Conscious Capitalism” by John Mackey & Raj Sisodia

What does it take to be a globally minded investor in today's ever-evolving landscape? In this unmissable episode, host Barbara Bickham sits down with Erika Aquino—angel investor, strategic advisor, and head of m Squad—to dive deep into investing with purpose and heart. Erika shares her dynamic journey from boardroom legacy in The Philippines to championing women and minority-led startups worldwide. You’ll hear her sharp insights on the explosive impact of AI, why founder EQ is a make-or-break factor, and how global crises (from disaster-prone regions to food supply) are reframing what impactful investing truly means. Whether you’re an aspiring investor, a founder, or a changemaker, this conversation offers real talk on values-driven investment and the future of angel funding. Guest Information Guest Name: Erika Aquino Bio: Erika Aquino is an angel investor, strategic adviser, and the head of m Squad, a Singapore-based investment group with a global focus. Raised and based in The Philippines, Erika is dedicated to supporting women and minority founders in fields like sustainability, wellness, future of work, and education. Her investment style centers on community impact, founder chemistry, and leveraging technology for good. Links: Website: https://erika-aquino.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erika-aquino Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamerikaaquino/ Episode Outline Erika Aquino’s Journey to Investing Discover Erika’s transition from supporting her father’s tech company in The Philippines to forging her own path as a global angel investor, with a focus on legacy, impact, and growth in community-driven ventures. Thesis-Driven Investing with Heart Erika lays out her investment criteria: backing women and minority founders in critical sectors (sustainability, wellness, the future of work, education, and adjacent areas). She shares how her upbringing in The Philippines shaped her commitment to impactful, values-driven investments. AI, Founder EQ, and the Future of Venture A fast-paced look at how AI is turbocharging diligence, research, and even daily routines—plus why human intelligence and emotional intelligence remain irreplaceable in venture. Erika and Barbara debate the evolving human/AI dynamic and discuss the critical importance of founder mindset and community engagement in tomorrow’s ecosystem. Transcript For a full transcript of this episode, visit: https://femalevclab.com Host & Show Info Host Name: Barbara Bickham About the Host: Barbara Bickham is an accomplished technologist, investor, and mentor dedicated to amplifying the voices and impact of female venture leaders around the globe. Podcast Website: https://femalevclab.com Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts – Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and keep bringing you the most inspiring stories.  Follow us on social media: Instagram: @femalevclab LinkedIn: Female VC Lab X (formerly Twitter): @femalevclab Join the conversation: Comment on LinkedIn, DM us your thoughts on Instagram, or share your favorite moments using #FemaleVCLab. Share this episode with a friend—tag us on social and let us know your #1 takeaway!

Unlocking Lifetime Financial Security & The Future of Wealth | E113 feat. Cheryl L. Evans, JD (Milken Institute) What does it really take to achieve lifelong financial security in a changing world? In this episode, Barbara Bickham sits down with Cheryl L. Evans, JD—Director of the Lifetime Financial Security (LFS) Program at the Milken Institute—to discuss the evolving landscape of retirement, the impact of generational wealth transfer, and why women need to be at the forefront of financial planning. Whether you’re navigating the start of your financial journey or contemplating legacy and longevity, this thought-provoking conversation is packed with actionable insights, future-forward trends, and inspiring perspectives for investors, innovators, and anyone interested in the intersection of finance and social impact. Key takeaways include: The realities behind “peak 65” and the massive shift as Boomers retire How Gen Z and Millennials can tackle the unique financial headwinds they face Why personalized retirement strategies matter more than ever The pivotal role of guaranteed income products and the reinvention of pensions The great wealth transfer—what it means for women, venture capital, and entrepreneurship Don’t miss this deep dive into how financial security impacts individuals, families, and the future of investment. Guest Information Guest Name: Cheryl L. Evans, JD Bio: Cheryl L. Evans is the Director of the Lifetime Financial Security Program at the Milken Institute. With a background as a securities lawyer (formerly at the SEC) and training in life coaching, Cheryl brings a unique perspective to wealth building, retirement planning, and financial empowerment across generations. Email: cevans@milkeninstitute.org LinkedIn: Cheryl Evans LinkedIn Episode Outline The Evolution of Retirement & Longevity Explore how demographic shifts (like “peak 65” as Boomers hit retirement age) are reshaping policies, products, and individual decisions around lifetime financial security. Link: Milken Institute LFS Program Meeting Millennial and Gen Z Financial Challenges Dive into current research and expert panel insights on wealth-building challenges faced by younger generations—from student debt to home-buying hurdles—and strategies for future financial success. Women, Wealth Transfer & Financial Confidence Learn about the upcoming great wealth transfer to women, the specific challenges and opportunities this presents, and why empowering women with financial literacy and leadership is more vital than ever. Resources: Lifetime Financial Security Report: https://milkeninstitute.org/report/shifting-retirement-paradigm-financial-security Enhancing Retirement: Advancing Lifetime Income for All https://milkeninstitute.org/content-hub/research-and-reports/reports/enhancing-retirement-advancing-lifetime-income-all Our Afternoon with Gloria Steinem https://milkeninstitute.org/article/our-afternoon

In this powerful episode of Female VC Lab, host Barbara Bickham sits down with Mary King, vice president at Aligned Climate Fund, to uncover how venture capital is accelerating the global clean energy transition. If you’re curious about the future of climate tech, energy innovation, and how investors are driving decarbonization, this episode is for you! Mary pulls back the curtain on Aligned Climate Fund’s investment thesis: investing in companies taking real action to decarbonize our infrastructure—including clean energy, resilient infrastructure, electric transport, and sustainable land use. You’ll hear insider stories about backing geothermal breakthroughs, innovative microgrid solutions, and the growing impact of point source carbon capture. Mary and Barbara also dive deep on challenges in climate tech VC, how AI could transform investment diligence, and why distributed energy and resilience are game changers for communities around the world. Whether you’re in the climate space, an entrepreneur, or just passionate about shaping a sustainable future, you’ll walk away with fresh insights and inspiration for what’s next in climate innovation and venture capital. Guest Information Guest Name: Mary King Bio: Mary King is vice president at Aligned Climate Fund, the venture strategy for Aligned Climate Capital. She invests in early-stage companies driving decarbonization across clean energy, resilient infrastructure, electric transport, and sustainable land use. Links: Mary King’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryeking/ Aligned Climate Capital: https://alignedclimatecapital.com/ Episode Outline Aligned Climate Fund’s Investment Thesis Mary explains how Aligned invests in seed to Series B companies with proven climate solutions, focusing on clean energy, resilient infrastructure, and decarbonization. More about Aligned Climate Capital The Role of Emerging Technologies: Geothermal, Microgrids & Carbon Capture A look at how Aligned approaches geothermal and microgrid investments, plus insights on distributed energy and point source carbon capture for scalable climate action. Resource: What is Geothermal Energy? Resource: Distributed Energy Resources The Future of Climate Tech and VC: AI, Diligence, and Industry Shifts Mary predicts how AI will soon revolutionize VC deal flow and diligence, enabling faster, smarter investment decisions—and what this means specifically for the climate sector. Resource: AI in Venture Capital Transcript For a full transcript of this episode, visit: https://femalevclab.com About the Host: Barbara Bickham is a venture investor, technologist, and founder of Female VC Lab. She champions women in venture and spotlights game-changing leaders investing for a better future. Podcast Website: https://femalevclab.com Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts – This is the most impactful way to support the show.

Episode Summary: Dive into the intriguing world of venture capital with our latest episode featuring Katelin Holloway, a founding partner at Seven Seven Six. Discover what motivated Katelin to transition from an executive operator to a venture capitalist and how her deep empathy for founders guides her investment decisions. In this episode, you'll gain insights into Seven Seven Six's unique thesis-agnostic approach and explore the dynamic shifts in the venture capital landscape. Whether you're curious about space tech, women's health tech, or AI's impact on the future of VC, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways that will keep you engaged from start to finish. Guest Information: Guest Name: Katelin Holloway Bio: Katelin Holloway is a founding partner at Seven Seven Six, a venture capital firm driven by her extensive experience as an operator and executive. With a passion for supporting founders and a focus on innovative sectors, Katelin brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to the investment landscape. Links: LinkedIn, X - formerly Twitter Episode Outline: 1. Transition to Venture Capital Katelin discusses her journey from being an executive to a venture capitalist, fueled by her desire to scale her impact by supporting multiple companies as an investor. 2. Thesis-Agnostic Investment Strategy Explore how Seven Seven Six’s thesis-agnostic approach allows them to invest in diverse sectors, focusing on the best founders and innovative ideas. 3. The Future of Venture Capital and AI Discover how AI is reshaping the venture capital ecosystem and Katelin’s insights on leveraging AI to create impactful investments and operational efficiencies. Community & Calls to Action: Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts – Your feedback helps us shine! Rate Here Follow us on social media for the latest updates: X (formerly Twitter): @FemaleVCLab Join the conversation and share your thoughts on this episode using the hashtag #FemaleVCLab. Share it with a friend, and let us know your favorite takeaway!

Empowering Women in Venture Capital: The Journey of Marcia Dawood Marcia Dawood is not just a name in the venture capital world; she is a beacon of hope and empowerment for women entrepreneurs across the globe. As a venture partner at Mindshift Capital, Marcia's mission revolves around elevating women-led innovation in sectors that matter, such as health tech, fintech, edtech, and food tech. This blog post delves into her journey, her investment thesis, and the essential changes needed in the venture capital landscape to foster diversity and inclusion. From Angel Investing to Venture Capital Marcia's venture into the investment world began about twelve years ago when she attended an angel investing meeting. Initially unaware of what angel investing entailed, she quickly grasped the innovative potential around her. However, she was struck by a sobering realization: the lack of funding for women entrepreneurs. This pivotal moment inspired her to join various funds, contributing as an investor and member of investment committees. Marcia's passion for supporting women-led businesses led her to co-found Mindshift Capital with her colleague Heather Henyan. Their goal? To invest in women-led companies globally, creating a ripple effect of change and innovation. The Investment Thesis at Mindshift Capital Marcia's investment thesis is rooted in the belief that women-led companies can drive significant change in the world. Mindshift Capital focuses on four key areas: health tech, fintech, edtech, and food tech. These sectors are not just trends; they represent the future of innovation and societal improvement. Global Trends in Investment Marcia highlights a fascinating trend: many entrepreneurs seeking funding often look to the U.S. to commercialize their innovations. This phenomenon is colloquially referred to as "all roads lead to Delaware." U.S. investors can sometimes be hesitant to invest in foreign companies due to unfamiliar tax implications. However, Marcia and her team have successfully navigated these complexities, allowing them to invest in promising companies at lower valuations while providing valuable support for their growth. Understanding Money: A Personal Journey

Female VC Lab Show Notes Episode Title and Number: CES2025: What's Next for Smart Cities - AI for Data, Planning, and Beyond Name of Session: What's Next for Smart Cities: AI for Data, Planning and Beyond Date and Time: Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at 3:00 PM Location: Las Vegas Convention Center North - N257 Session Description: The rise of AI-powered Smart Cities is significant. Learn from early adopters who have seen AI capabilities become notable force multipliers in our smartest cities.  Full Panel: David Shier, Managing Director, Visionary Future (Moderator)  Sheri Bachstein, CEO, The Weather Company Barbara Bickham, Founder & GP, Trailyn VC Nadia Hansen, Global Digital Transformation Executive, Salesforce Prachi Vakharia, ARPA-I: Strategic Advisor for Innovations & Infrastructure, USDOT Episode Summary: In this episode, we dive into the transformative potential of AI in developing smart cities, as discussed in a CES 2025 panel. The conversation covers aspects ranging from extreme weather prediction to citizen-centric services and the ethical implications of AI in urban governance. Key Points Discussed: The role of AI in predicting extreme weather and urban design Probabilistic forecasting and its benefits for emergency preparedness The concept of citizen-centric smart cities for enhanced public participation Challenges in data standardization and the importance of public-private partnerships Ethical considerations, including bias and privacy concerns in AI technologies Timecode Guide: 00:00:04 - Introduction to smart cities and AI 00:00:38 - Discussion about extreme weather prediction with AI 00:01:53 - Explanation of probabilistic forecasting 00:03:09 - Concept of citizen-centric smart cities 00:04:47 - Data challenges and public-private partnerships 00:08:09 - Ethics, transparency, and public education on AI 00:11:01 - Challenges with AI model sizes and limited data 00:17:40 - Privacy concerns in smart cities 00:18:45 - Ensuring AI doesn't perpetuate bias 00:20:02 - Discussion on potential job losses and new opportunities 00:21:09 - Misuse of AI by authoritarian governments 00:22:25 - Weather strategy in the era of climate change 00:25:27 - Collaboration and human-centered AI 00:27:45 - Future vision for smart cities Full Topic Guide: The Future of Smart Cities: Harnessing AI for a Better Urban Life Introduction: As we stand on the brink of an AI-driven transformation in urban living, the CES 2025 panel offers an enlightening glimpse into how next-gen technologies are being leveraged to create smarter, more resilient cities. Hosts Daniel and Barbara Bick

Exploring Innovative Funding Structures for Affordable Housing: Insights from Liz Kuka Welcome back to the Female VC Lab Podcast! In our latest episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Liz Kuka, CEO of Purpose for Profit. Liz shared her unique perspective on venture capital, affordable housing, and the innovative funding structures her organization is pioneering. Who is Liz Kuka? Name: Elizabeth Kuka Title: CEO Fund: Purpose for Profit The Motivation Behind Venture Capital When asked what inspired her to become a venture capitalist, Liz succinctly stated, “Money makes the world go round.” She believes in deploying capital to projects that can create real change, empowering people to bring their visions to life. Purpose for Profit: A New Approach to Funding What is Purpose for Profit? Purpose for Profit operates as a tokenized lending fund, focusing on providing below-market-rate loans to businesses that are developing affordable mixed-income housing. Here’s how it works: Funding Mechanism: Individuals can purchase tokens, with 85% of the funds raised being deployed to loans for affordable housing projects. Types of Loans: The fund starts with construction bridge loans, addressing a significant gap in the market where traditional lending often falls short. Transparency and Accessibility Liz emphasized the importance of transparency in fund management. By leveraging blockchain technology, Purpose for Profit aims to provide: Real-Time Reporting: Unlike traditional funds that may take months to generate reports, stakeholders can access real-time data on asset management and loan progress. Simplified Investment: Instead of navigating complex legal documents, participants can engage through a straightforward token purchase backed by smart contracts. Addressing Challenges in Affordable Housing Liz pointed out that many nonprofits struggle with fundraising and face donor burnout. She highlighted the potential of cryptocurrency, which currently exceeds $3 trillion in market capitalization, to create new funding streams for affordable housing initiatives. Why Focus on Affordable Housing? Liz believes that safe and affordable housing is a crucial determinant of economic stability and educational outcomes. She noted that: Housing Impacts Life: Without a safe place to live, individuals face significant barriers to education and health, affecting their overall quality of life. Philanthropic Support: While many philanthropic efforts focus on education, Liz advocates for equal attention to housing as a foundational element of community well-being. The Future of Venture Capital Looking ahead, Liz predicts that venture capital will evolve significantly in the next two years. Key trends to watch include: Rise of Digital Assets: As younger investors become increasingly involved, the use of digital assets will lead to faster capital deployment and liquidity. Need for Education: With new money entering the market, there will be a heightened need for education on due diligence and risk management to ensure informed investment decisions. How to Connect with Liz Kuka Interested in learning more about Purpose for Profit or connecting with Liz? Here are the best ways to reach out: li

Episode E107: Julia Krieger of Pari Passu Venture Partners Guest: Julia Krieger Host: Barbara Bickham Summary: In this episode of the Female VC Lab Podcast, Barbara Bickham interviews Julia Krieger, founder of Pari Passu Venture Partners. Julia shares her journey into venture capitalism, the unique structure and thesis behind her firm, and the importance of value-add investors. The conversation covers her current learnings, thoughts on future trends in venture capital, and how PariPassu aims to support founders through their innovative approach. Key Points: Inspiration Behind Venture Capitalism: Julia's entrepreneurial spirit and prior experience as an operator drove her to venture into investing, allowing her to support a diverse range of companies and continuously feed her intellectual curiosity. PariPassu Venture Partners' Unique Approach: The fund operates through individual SPVs rather than a traditional venture fund, involving a wide array of dedicated resources and a focus on meaningful involvement from experienced operators. Thesis and Motivation: PariPassu’s main thesis is that collaboration and support from experienced operators on the cap table can help de-risk businesses and bridge the gap for high-net-worth individuals wanting to participate in top venture deals with smaller checks. Future Trends in Venture Capital: Julia foresees a greater emphasis on value-add investors and more thoughtful fundraising strategies. Additionally, she predicts a growing interest in industries like defense tech and wellness tech. Fun Facts: Book Recommendation: Julia is rereading "The Surrender Experiment" by Michael Singer, which emphasizes the concept of flow versus force in life and business. PariPassu App: PariPassu recently launched an app designed as a tech home for their community, making it easier to share opportunities and support founders. Investment Record: Since December 2020, PariPassu Venture Partners has invested in 30 deals with approximately $1 million check in each. Contact Information: Email: julia@ppvp.com Download the Pari Passu's app to connect and share opportunities. Thank you for tuning in to the Female VC Lab Podcast with your host, Barbara Bickham! Be sure to check out the show notes for more details and resources.

Welcome back to the Female VC Lab Podcast! In this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Keara Sauber, CEO of Sauber Capital. Keara shared her journey into venture capitalism, her investment thesis, and her thoughts on the future of the industry. Here are some key takeaways from our conversation. Who is Keara Sauber? Keara Sauber has over 20 years of experience in the healthcare and technology sectors. She began her career in big pharma, driven by a passion for making impactful changes in healthcare. Her focus areas include: Biotech Diagnostics Women's health Health and wellness Keara's Investment Thesis Keara's investment philosophy is rooted in her commitment to healthcare innovation. Her approach encompasses two main arms: Venture Investments: Targeting seed to Series A funding for startups. Growth Capital: Investing in revenue-generating companies that are not necessarily in life sciences. Key Focus Areas Biotech and Diagnostics: Keara emphasizes investing in companies that innovate at the intersection of cutting-edge science and impactful healthcare solutions. Women's Health: She is particularly passionate about supporting female founders who are addressing critical healthcare needs. The Longevity Space Keara expressed her interest in the longevity sector, highlighting the importance of understanding the difference between health span and lifespan. She is currently exploring: Inflammatory markers: Keara believes inflammation is a critical factor in many health issues and is focused on preventative diagnostics. Breakthroughs in longevity: With the FDA recognizing longevity as a therapeutic category, Keara sees opportunities for innovation and collaboration in this space. Evolving Landscape of Venture Capital When asked about the future of venture capital, Keara shared her insights on how the industry is likely to evolve over the next two years: Specialization: A shift towards more specialized funds focusing on specific sectors, such as diagnostics and biotech. Collaboration: Increased cooperation between venture capitalists, private equity funds, and investment bankers to support portfolio companies better. Diverse Funding Options: A need for venture funds to explore alternative financial instruments, such as debt, to avoid excessive dilution for founders. Best Practices for Women in Leadership Keara emphasized the importance of women supporting women in leadership roles. Here are her key recommendations: Check-in on Each Other: Simple questions like "How are you doing today?" can foster collaboration and support. Be Honest: Sharing your true status can lead to more powerful collaborations. The Importance of Understanding Capital Structures Keara highlighted that founders seeking venture capital should understand the balance sheets and where the money comes from. She pointed out that: Venture funds are not just sitting on capital: They have responsibilities to their investors and must adhere to specific criteria. Founders should do their homework: Understanding the fund's investment

Episode Highlights with Kt McBratney Welcome back to the Female VC Lab Podcast! In this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Kt McBratney, a partner at Renew Venture Capital and the driving force behind Purpose Rounds. Kt shared her inspiring journey into the world of venture capital, her investment thesis, and her vision for the future of the industry. From Journalism to Venture Capital Kt path to becoming a venture capitalist was anything but conventional. Here are some key takeaways from her journey: Background: Kt began her career in journalism before transitioning to marketing for stability and health insurance. Founder's Perspective: After operating her own startup, she sought a new opportunity where she could make an impact, leading her to Renew Venture Capital. Community Focus: Kt emphasized the importance of true community connections over superficial networking, highlighting how community can serve as the connective tissue of a purpose-driven venture firm. Investment Thesis Kt investment philosophy is rooted in supporting impactful founders and historically overlooked groups: Impact Founders: Renew Venture Capital backs companies that aim to make a positive impact across various sectors. Women and Underrepresented Founders: A significant part of their thesis is dedicated to supporting women and founders from historically excluded backgrounds. Kt articulated the critical intersectionality of these two focuses, noting that: Business Case: Companies led by diverse founders often demonstrate higher revenue and capital efficiency. Addressing Inequities: The venture capital landscape has a long way to go in addressing the systemic exclusion of diverse founders, and Katie is determined to be part of the solution. Challenging Ineffective Systems Kt discussed the need to confront and change exclusionary systems within the venture capital industry: Dual Mission: Renew Venture Capital aims to produce financial returns (alpha) while also challenging and changing ineffective systems. Critical Questions: She emphasized the importance of asking "why" and interrogating established norms in the industry. Current Learning and Reading Kt is an avid reader and lifelong learner. Recently, she has been diving into: Books: Currently reading Worn, which explores the history of textiles and their connection to economics and culture. Learning Approach: Kt believes in continually questioning and digging deeper into topics, challenging assumptions, and seeking a broader understanding of systems at play. Future of Venture Capital Looking ahead, Kt envisions a more inclusive and innovative venture capital landscape: Societal Alignment: More capital will be directed toward addressing societal challenges. Diverse Representation: The industry will see greater representation in decision-making roles, driven by the values of the upcoming generations. Innovation in VC: Venture capitalists will need to innovate alongside their portfolio companies, fostering a culture of growth and adaptation. Connect with Kt Kt is eager to connect with like-minde

Show Notes: Episode E104 - Anne Gherini - SIERRA Ventures Episode Summary: In this enlightening episode of Female VC Lab, our host Barbara Bickham sits down with Anne Gherini, the CMO at Sierra Ventures, an early-stage VC firm focusing on the future of enterprise. Anne reveals her journey from being an operator to a venture capitalist, the dynamic role she plays in Sierra Ventures, and her investment thesis centered around B2B SaaS. She also shares her insights on the rapid changes in the venture capital world and the significance of go-to-market strategies. Key Topics Discussed: - Anne Gherini's career transition from operator to venture capitalist - Detailed breakdown of Anne's role as a CMO at Sierra Ventures - Sierra Ventures’ investment thesis focused on early-stage B2B SaaS companies - Importance of building a technical moat and go-to-market strategies - Anne’s recommendations on reading and continuously learning about health and longevity Fun Facts: 1. Diverse Portfolio: Sierra Ventures invests almost exclusively in B2B software but has delved into deep tech sectors like quantum computing and Vertex AI. 2. Passion for Optimization: Anne is enthusiastic about optimizing not only businesses and campaigns but also personal health and longevity, inspired by Peter Attia's book "Outlive." 3. Constant Learning: Besides sitting on investment teams and helping build campaigns, Anne enjoys the continuous learning aspect of venture capital, finding excitement in the pace of advancements in technology and startup solutions. Contact Information: - Anne Gherini on LinkedIn - Anne Gherini on Twitter (X): @AnnieG - Sierra Ventures Website Thanks for Listening! Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Female VC Lab. Be sure to subscribe and leave us a review if you enjoyed the episode. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from female venture capitalists around the world!

Show Notes: Female VC Lab Podcast Episode: E103 - Katie Quilligan of BankTech Ventures Host: - Barbara Bickham Guest: - Katie Quilligan, Investor at BankTech Ventures Episode Summary: In this insightful episode, Barbara Bickham chats with Katie Quilligan, an investor at BankTech Ventures. Katie shares her journey from the operator side at American Express to becoming a venture capitalist, driven by her passion for supporting women entrepreneurs and bridging the funding gap. She discusses BankTech Ventures' strategic focus on aiding community banks by providing innovative fintech solutions to improve their efficiency and competitiveness. Katie delves into the current trends and challenges in the banking industry, especially the integration of AI and the importance of balancing innovation with regulatory compliance. Key Points: 1. Journey to Venture Capital: Katie transitioned from a career in operations at American Express to venture capital to help women entrepreneurs secure funding. 2. BankTech Ventures’ Thesis: The fund aims to bridge traditional community banking with modern fintech solutions by acting as an R&D arm for over 100 community banks. 3. AI in Banking: Katie discusses the growing role of AI in banking, emphasizing its potential to streamline both front and back-office operations while navigating regulatory challenges. Fun Facts: 1. Katie's first venture capital experience was with Petra Griffith at Wedbush Ventures in LA. 2. Community banks are responsible for over 60% of small business loans and more than 80% of agricultural loans in the U.S. 3. Katie likens the role of AI in banks to that of an intern, aiding in tasks but still requiring human oversight. Contact Information: - Katie Quilligan: LinkedIn or via email at katie@banktechventures.com Podcast Links: - Female VC Lab Podcast Website Follow Us: - Instagram: @FemaleVCLab Tune in for more inspiring stories and insights from leading women in venture capital!

Keri Findley,  is the founder of Tacora Capital,  an Austin, Texas based firm which does asset-backed private credit to venture-owned companies. Providing loans to youngish companies is an important part of the VC ecosystem, and Keri takes pride in helping young entrepreneurs grow their startups.

Corinne Bortniker is a Director at Cohen Circle where she supports SPAC deal execution and venture capital investments. Previously, Corinne was a Vice President at Wells Fargo Securities, focused on Technology, Media, and Telecom Equity Capital Markets. She has extensive experience executing equity capital markets transactions, raising proceeds for public and private companies. Prior to Wells Fargo Securities, she was an Equity Capital Markets analyst at Cowen Inc. Corinne holds a B.A. in Business and Psychology from Brandeis University.

Mary Ellen Iskenderian is President and CEO of Women’s World Banking, the global nonprofit devoted to giving more low-income women access to the financial tools and resources they need to achieve security and prosperity. Ms. Iskenderian has led the Women’s World Banking global team, based in New York, since 2006 and also serves on the Investment Committees of its two impact investment funds. Previously, Ms. Iskenderian worked at the International Finance Corporation, the private sector arm of the World Bank, and the investment bank Lehman Brothers. Ms. Iskenderian is a permanent member of the Council on Foreign Relations, as well as a member of the Women’s Forum of New York and the UN’s Business and Sustainable Development Commission. She serves as a Director on the Board of the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation. Ms. Iskenderian holds an MBA from the Yale School of Management and a Bachelor of Science in International Economics from Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service. Recently, she was recognized in the Forbes 50 over 50: Investment list, which highlights female investors and financial leaders. Her first book, There’s Nothing Micro About a Billion Women: Making Finance Work for Women, was published by MIT Press in April 2022.

Madhu is a managing partner and co-founder of Rocketship.vc. Prior to Rocketship, she was Chief Data Officer for Gojek, contributing to its growth into a $10 billion unicorn. She served as an operating partner at a $150M PE fund building startups across Southeast Asia and was a member of Intuit’s Quickbooks Lending Platform founding team.

Nicole Valentine is the FinTech Director of the Center for Financial Markets at the Milken Institute with over a decade of financial services, international Mergers & Acquisitions, technology and innovation experience. She leads the FinTech Program with a focus on access to capital, financial inclusion, compliance and transparency.