How to Startup

Traditional corporate training is outdated, clunky, and inefficient. But what if workplace learning could be smarter, more dynamic, and deeply personalized? In this episode of The Startup Brief, we explore how Sana, an AI-powered learning platform, is transforming how companies share and consume knowledge.Beta University helps first-time founders turn their ideas into VC-ready companies with real, actionable insights from the heart of Silicon Valley.Reach out to lilly@betauniversity.org to learn more about how we can support your startup in the fundraising journey: www.betauniversity.org

Photo editing can be time-consuming and complex—but what if AI could do the heavy lifting for you? In this episode of Startup Brief, Fei, founder of Beta University, explores how Photoroom is transforming the way we edit images. Whether you're an e-commerce seller, content creator, or just someone who wants professional-quality photos without the hassle, Photoroom’s AI-powered tools make editing faster, easier, and more accessible. Tune in to discover how Photoroom is redefining the future of visual content creation!Beta University helps first-time founders turn their ideas into VC-ready companies with real, actionable insights from the heart of Silicon Valley.Reach out to lilly@betauniversity.org to learn more about how we can support your startup in the fundraising journey: www.betauniversity.org

In this episode of The Startup Brief, we explore CoreWeave, a rising powerhouse in the cloud computing space specializing in AI, high-performance computing, and GPU-powered workloads. While tech giants like AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud dominate the industry, CoreWeave takes a different approach, backed by NVIDIA and major investors, CoreWeave is rapidly positioning itself as the go-to cloud provider for AI-driven companies. Will it disrupt the cloud market, or will the big players close the gap? Tune in to find out.Beta University helps first-time founders turn their ideas into VC-ready companies with real, actionable insights from the heart of Silicon Valley.Reach out to lilly@betauniversity.org to learn more about how we can support your startup in the fundraising journey: www.betauniversity.org

Hugging Face is revolutionizing AI by making it open, accessible, and collaborative—just like GitHub did for software development. In this episode, we explore how Hugging Face is leveling the playing field for AI developers, its business model, market impact, and future challenges. Tune in to learn why this $4B startup is at the heart of the AI revolution.Beta University helps first-time founders turn their ideas into VC-ready companies with real, actionable insights from the heart of Silicon Valley.Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: https://beta-university.beehiiv.com/subscribe

In this episode of Startup Brief, we dive into Figure AI—a company pioneering humanoid robots designed to work alongside humans in real-world industries. With AI-driven adaptability and advanced mobility, these robots aim to tackle global labor shortages and redefine automation. But can they scale? And how do they stack up against competitors like Boston Dynamics and Tesla? Join me as we explore Figure AI’s potential, the market opportunity, and what’s next in the race for intelligent robotics.Beta University helps first-time founders turn their ideas into VC-ready companies with real, actionable insights from the heart of Silicon Valley.Learn more about Beta University and our 8-week pre-accelerator program: https://www.betauniversity.org

How is Anthropic shaping the future of AI? In this episode, we explore their groundbreaking work not only on their flagship model, Claude, but also on AI safety and Constitutional AI. Learn how they’re competing with OpenAI and Google while prioritizing ethics and reliability.Beta University helps first-time founders turn their ideas into VC-ready companies with real, actionable insights from the heart of Silicon Valley.Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: https://beta-university.beehiiv.com/subscribe

In this episode of Startup Brief, we break down MistralAI, a rising star in the AI industry that's helping businesses automate decision-making, analyze massive data sets, and work smarter. We’ll dive into their technology, their impact across industries like finance and healthcare, and why investors are betting big on their future. How does MistralAI stand out in a competitive AI landscape? And what does their latest funding round mean for their growth? Tune in as we explore why this startup is making waves and why you should keep it on your radar.Beta University helps first-time founders turn their ideas into VC-ready companies with real, actionable insights from the heart of Silicon Valley.Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: https://beta-university.beehiiv.com/subscribe

In this episode, we’re excited to host Charlotte Xia, an investor at Fusion Fund, to explore how startups are driving innovation in AI infrastructure and industrial transformation. At Fusion Fund, Charlotte has worked with pioneering companies like Otter AI, Proscia, and Accern, helping them scale with strategic expertise.With a background in R&D at SmileDirectClub and materials science at Formlabs, Charlotte brings a unique perspective on applying advanced technology to real-world challenges. Her work has supported billion-dollar growth stories, including Formlabs’ success in serving industry leaders like Google and Mayo Clinic.Join us to uncover actionable insights into scaling tech startups and shaping industries through innovation.Subscribe to our upcoming episodes: https://lu.ma/Beta-events

In this episode, we’re thrilled to host Maurice Russo, an Investor at Lerer Hippeau, a leading venture capital firm known for backing iconic companies that redefine industries. With a portfolio boasting breakout successes like Warby Parker, Casper, Glossier, Allbirds, and Zipline, Lerer Hippeau has consistently demonstrated an unparalleled ability to identify and support transformative startups.Maurice shares insights on how their team identifies category-defining companies and the strategies they employ to help founders achieve long-term success. From navigating early-stage challenges to scaling with purpose, this conversation offers invaluable lessons for founders looking to make a lasting impact.Tune in to learn how you can position your startup to join the ranks of industry game-changers!Subscribe to our upcoming episodes: https://lu.ma/Beta-events

In this episode, we welcome Nik Milanović, General Partner at The Fintech Fund and a prominent figure in the fintech ecosystem, to explore the intersection of AI and financial technology. Drawing on strategic experience from Google Pay, Petal, and Funding Circle, Nik offers an insider’s perspective on what it takes to drive innovation in this fast-evolving space.At The Fintech Fund, Nik focuses on early-stage investments that are redefining finance, with portfolio successes like Rainforest ($20M Series A), Navro (£11.1M Series A), and Coast ($27.5M Series A). As the founder of This Week in Fintech, Nik has curated industry insights since 2019, becoming a key voice shaping the future of fintech.Tune in to gain actionable insights on navigating the fintech landscape, leveraging AI to create groundbreaking solutions, and positioning your startup for success.Subscribe to our upcoming episodes: https://lu.ma/Beta-events

In this episode, we are joined by Duncan Davidson, General Partner and Co-Founder of Bullpen Capital, a distinguished early-stage investment firm based in Silicon Valley. Bullpen Capital is renowned for its strategic focus on high-potential startups at the seed and Series A stages, with a portfolio featuring companies like RippleMatch, SpotHero, and SpaceIQ.Duncan brings a wealth of experience as a serial entrepreneur and venture capitalist. He founded Covad Communications, the leading independent DSL provider, which went public and reached a market value of $9 billion. He also founded Sky Pilot Networks, a developer of outdoor wireless mesh systems. At Bullpen, Duncan focuses on SaaS and IoT investments, advising companies such as Modal, Filament, Hologram, Illumeo, SpaceIQ, Verbling, and Wag Labs.In this session, Duncan shares his extensive experience and insights into the strategies that drive startup success. From navigating early funding rounds to scaling for growth, he provides actionable advice for founders aiming to make their mark in the competitive startup ecosystem.Tune in to gain valuable perspectives on what it takes to move from seed funding to sustainable success.👉 Subscribe to our upcoming episodes: https://lu.ma/Beta-events

In this episode, we are excited to introduce Xfund, a venture capital firm known for backing visionary entrepreneurs across disciplines. With notable investments in groundbreaking companies like Robinhood, Plaid, SpaceX, and Gusto, Xfund embodies the spirit of innovation and lateral thinking.Brandon Farwell, General Partner at Xfund, is joining us. With a distinguished career that includes investments in transformative companies like Box, Twilio, and Planet, Brandon shares invaluable insights into what it takes to succeed as a startup founder. From frontier technology to disruptive software, his expertise offers a roadmap for entrepreneurs navigating early-stage funding and growth.Tune in to learn how Xfund identifies and supports bold ideas that redefine industries.👉 Subscribe to our upcoming episodes: https://lu.ma/Beta-events

In this episode, we welcome Brad Schnitzer, Managing Director at Techstars, to share behind-the-scenes insights from one of the world’s most renowned startup accelerators. With a portfolio of over 3,500 startups that have collectively raised more than $23 billion, Techstars is at the forefront of identifying and nurturing the next generation of high-potential founders.Brad will explore how founders can position themselves for success in a competitive landscape, collaborate effectively with accelerators, and navigate the challenges of early-stage scaling. This is your opportunity to learn how Techstars evaluates startups, builds growth pathways, and empowers entrepreneurs to stand out in the startup ecosystem.Tune in to uncover actionable strategies for launching, scaling, and thriving in today’s dynamic startup world.👉 Subscribe to our upcoming episodes: https://lu.ma/Beta-events

In this episode, we’re excited to host Timothy Chen, General Partner at Essence Venture Capital, for an in-depth discussion on reshaping enterprise solutions with cutting-edge technology. With a career spanning influential roles at Grid.ai, Tendermint, Cloudera, and Microsoft, Timothy brings unparalleled expertise in developer tools, data infrastructure, and AI/ML innovation.At Essence VC, Timothy spearheads early-stage investments in transformative startups, including Noteable, Basis, and Tabular—acquired by leading companies like Confluent, Digits, and Databricks, respectively. As an advisor to companies like Rupert and Bessemer Venture Partners, Timothy shares unique insights into building and scaling enterprise technology solutions.Tune in to explore strategies for thriving in the fast-evolving enterprise tech ecosystem and learn actionable tips on navigating the world of venture capital.👉 Subscribe to our upcoming episodes: https://lu.ma/Beta-events

In this episode, we welcome Simon, a partner at Cathay Innovation, to delve into the intricacies of venture capital and what it takes to succeed in today’s fast-evolving startup ecosystem. Leading U.S. investment efforts at a global VC firm managing over $2.5 billion in AUM, Simon specializes in software, fintech, digital healthcare, and consumer sectors, providing invaluable guidance to founders across all growth stages.With a proven track record in M&A and investment strategy, Simon shares lessons learned from Cathay Innovation’s portfolio successes, including Alkemics, drivy, and Tuhu. From his roots in technology investment banking at UBS to earning recognition as one of VC Journal’s 40 Under 40 Rising Stars, Simon’s career offers founders a roadmap to navigating venture capital and scaling effectively.Tune in to discover actionable insights on what VCs prioritize in investments, strategies for building relationships with investors, and how to position your startup for sustainable growth.Subscribe to our upcoming episodes: https://lu.ma/Beta-events

In this thought-provoking episode, we host Adam Besvinick, founder and managing partner of Looking Glass Capital, for an inside look at how venture capital is driving innovation in health, climate, and social empowerment. With a career spanning investments from pre-seed to Series C, Adam has a proven track record of identifying and supporting transformative startups like Transfix, BigID, Invisible Universe, and Rebel (acquired by Salesforce).Adam shares his journey from investing in early-stage companies at Deep Fork Capital to leading growth-stage investments at Anchorage Capital Group, offering invaluable advice for founders navigating the complexities of fundraising and scaling impactful businesses.Key takeaways include how VCs assess startups for long-term impact, the role of early-stage collaboration in achieving scale, and actionable insights for building an MVP that addresses real-world challenges. Adam’s experience as both an investor and advisor provides a unique lens on how to align innovation with purpose.Join us to uncover the strategies for securing investment and creating startups that make a difference in the world!

In this compelling episode, we host Aaron Michel, Partner at 1984 Ventures and founder of Relentless Capital, for an insider’s perspective on what venture capitalists truly seek in startups. With a proven track record of top-quartile returns across consecutive funds and a history of successful investments in innovative companies like Reggora, BlueCargo, and DeepScribe, Aaron shares invaluable advice for founders navigating the startup ecosystem.Key takeaways include how VCs evaluate startups beyond the pitch deck, the importance of market understanding and founder resilience, and actionable insights for building a scalable MVP. Aaron’s experience as a successful entrepreneur and his perspective as an investor provides a fresh lens on what it takes to stand out in today’s competitive landscape.Join us to uncover the secrets of attracting VC attention and building a startup that thrives!

In this episode, we host Brooks Hosfield, Partner at SciFi VC, for a deep dive into the strategies behind successful fundraising for early-stage founders. Brooks shares his journey from Chief of Staff at Affirm to partner at SciFi VC, offering invaluable insights on navigating the startup ecosystem, building defensible companies, and understanding what top VCs look for in their investments.Brooks’ expertise in fintech, AI, and marketplace startups, along with his experience scaling Affirm from 200 people to IPO, brings practical and strategic advice that’s essential for founders at the pre-seed and seed stages. Whether you’re gearing up for fundraising or building your MVP, this episode offers powerful takeaways to help you grow with confidence and clarity.Chapters -00:42 - Journey from history major to venture capitalist01:13 - Consulting career in SubSaharan Africa01:32 - Mobile payments pioneer turned entrepreneur, met Max Levchin02:23 - A long journey from the chief of staff to SciFi investment04:14 - Top of mind AI, ambitious founders, FinTech06:58 - Founder qualities passion, curiosity, tenacity08:46 - Intenacious leader, not dogmatic09:19 - Humility, tenacity, and data-driven leadership10:29 - The investment committee loves technical founders12:10 - Value in like instincts for founders12:50 - Growth, taking care of yourself, and finding technical cofounders17:15 - Healthcare is a huge market with huge potential17:35 - Red flag lack of market understanding19:25 - Founders PreSeed, Seedfocused approach21:41 - Mission Problem set and solution22:14 - Sharing ideas with others in pre and post-stack stages23:35 - Customerfocused fundraising tips for founders24:37 - Founders unique point of view helps companies stand out27:35 - Silicon Valley's best deals come from founders' referrals28:23 - Scifi investment process29:59 - Small, nimble VC with flexible check sizes30:54 - Fundraising flexibility, self-directed tech fellow33:43 - Tech fellow role lends itself to technical skills35:30 - Pitching for compelling worldviews36:12 - AI booking software for barbershops37:34 - Stabilize PMF, innovate, fundraise39:57 - Welcome to the Bay!

In this thought-provoking episode, we host Kenneth Stanley, author of Why Greatness Cannot Be Planned and former AI researcher at OpenAI, for an insightful conversation on redefining success, creativity, and innovation in the age of AI. Kenneth shares lessons from his journey, insights on AI’s expanding role across industries, and advice for founders on embracing unconventional paths.Key takeaways include the transformative potential of AI beyond tech, OpenAI’s culture of ambition, and how innovation flourishes without rigid objectives. Kenneth’s reflections encourage founders to pursue unique niches, take calculated risks, and leverage open-ended exploration for personal and professional growth. Join us as we dive into a fresh perspective on achieving greatness without a fixed path.Chapters -00:00 - Opportunities in AI field01:32 - Model builders, scaling, applications02:42 - OpenAIs shift to large language models in 202005:36 - Open AIs Sam Altman explains the career theme08:09 - Perspective on leadership and AI's initial reaction08:23 - Charisma and leadership qualities in CEOs09:23 - Charismatic, effective leader inspires loyalty10:37 - Inspiring trust, powerful AI, scary12:08 - Sam, Google's AI leader, inspires trust13:01 - Open AIs controversial departures13:20 - Former SpaceX employee says surprised by resignations16:45 - DeepMind acquired by Google for AI research17:06 - DeepMind acquisition shocked the AI community21:56 - Silicon Valley hype cycles, books importance24:02 - Objectivedriven innovation motivates deeper instincts27:52 - Motivational books impact on global society30:31 - Happy to talk about the book with interested people31:05 - Author discusses writing book, stress in academia33:45 - Entrepreneurship and grant rejection36:59 - Academics AI research unsustainable37:30 - Chat apps interact with AI37:50 - AI tools boost productivity in workflow38:39 - Transition to AI saved house from termites40:41 - Chat GPTs impact on termite inspections45:00 - Ken's philosophy on finding interesting jobs48:08 - Mac pioneer pursues interesting options49:11 - Advice for AI entrepreneurs52:10 - Ken's book challenges common assumptions52:56 - All things to the best53:09 - Group chats available on WeChat, Xiaohongshu53:42 - DM me on Facebook, Twitter, Gamma54:06 - AI workflow boosts productivity

In this episode, we sit down with Cody Sugarman, Principal at Antler, the world’s top seed-stage VC. Cody brings valuable insights into what it takes to launch and grow a successful startup in today’s tech-driven landscape. Drawing from his experience at Antler and his prior role leading Data Science at General Catalyst, Cody shares practical guidance on building focus, choosing the right investors, and validating your product with genuine customer feedback.For founders navigating the early stages, Cody’s advice underscores the power of clear priorities, fast execution, and aligning with investors who share your vision. Tune in to learn how a strategic approach, combined with a commitment to understanding your customers, can fuel growth and create a lasting impact in the competitive startup world.Chapters -00:00 - Codys 500k investment in startups00:28 - Cody One of Silicon Valley's Most Active Accelerators00:48 - Super grateful for Cody's wisdom01:03 - Intro, career, and startup highlights02:47 - Fintech venture raised millions in London03:12 - Venture funding, left, joined investing side03:19 - Antler invests in early-stage companies in Southeast Asia05:09 - Investment experience bootstrapped, angel, venture, either08:58 - Red flag lack of commitment, entrepreneurial spirit11:46 - Market-making strategies for venture investors13:53 - Investing in the right people, at the right funds16:00 - Startup advantage Focus on a specific problem19:52 - Founder advice Dont need money, build enterprise21:04 - Start with big chunky enterprise contracts22:03 - Focus on smaller customers, raise money for product development22:26 - Easy Vc 10 customers, 500k, 5x investment22:54 - Job interview process24:39 - High-level revenue opportunities for entrepreneurs27:40 - Rare instances of founders not investing in companies29:54 - Antler's advice for VCs Dont overweight generalists30:38 - Portfolio companies encourage counseling, community helps33:54 - Early-stage founders use money and slides36:44 - Tips for VC rejections41:05 - Breakout room for preselected companies42:48 - Breakout room, global presence, and links43:09 - Intro Client Out of Space Virtual Tours44:38 - 3dgaussian sliding technology for property tours46:42 - Copilot for market research47:59 - Distribution strategy for V1 product in the pipeline49:33 - Distribution expert Disney, Amazon, UC professor, tech cofounder50:05 - Automated chat box for real estate agents51:16 - Real estate agents communication problem solved55:06 - Traction and funding for early-stage companies56:37 - Vaporware vs LOI spectrum