Prodcricle with Mudassir Mustafa

SummaryIn this video, Somi Arian shares what it takes to build a billion-dollar company. Learn about scalability, agencies, and more! If you're wondering how to make your business successful, this video is a must-watch!TakeawaysWhen starting a business, think about what people want and how you can provide it to them in a more efficient way than your competitors.Building a personal brand on LinkedIn involves creating valuable content, listening to what resonates with your audience, and associating with industry experts.Even with limited resources, it is possible to build a good enough personal brand by taking risks, being consistent, and focusing on content creation.The choice between running a bootstrapped company or a venture-backed unicorn depends on personal preferences and the stage of life one is in.Investors should consider the potential of female founders and not let biases or polished pitches overshadow their potential for success.Chapters00:00 Trailer01:30 Who is Somi Arian 06:30 Understanding Scalable vs Non-Scalable Businesses11:30 Why agency business are not scalable 14:50 Competing in the SaaS Market18:40 Building a Network of VCs and LPs20:20 Building Successful Businesses in Different Verticals23:55 Giving People What They Want26:25 Building a Personal Brand on LinkedIn31:35 Building a Personal Brand on a Limited Budget37:07 Choosing Between a Bootstrapped Company and a Venture-Backed Unicorn40:19 EndingConnect with Mudassir 🎥 YouTube Channel - @prodcircleHQ 🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/ProdcircleHQ📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/prodcirclehq💻 Website - https://prodcircle.com/👥 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mudassir-mustafa/

SummaryWant to know how VCs pick founders to back or not? Join us as Pearse Coyle of Deepseed Fund VC shares insights on deep tech startups, venture capital due diligence, and more. If you're a startup looking for funding, this video is a must-watch!Takeaways1. Market discovery is crucial for startups to identify potential customers and validate their product or service.2. Cap table issues often arise in university spinouts, with tenured academics expecting a larger stake than full-time founders.3. A standardized scorecard can help evaluate startups based on market traction and customer interest.4. Investors should look for startups that have engaged customers and a clear path to market.Building a strong founding team is crucial for startups and spin-outs. It requires the commitment of the scientists or entrepreneurs involved and the involvement of individuals who are familiar with the technology.5. Measuring traction in startups can be challenging, especially in deep tech ventures. It is important to define tangible stages in the sales process and track the progress of potential customers.6. Becoming a VC in the deep tech space requires experience and understanding of the investment process. It is recommended to gain a track record through angel investing or successful entrepreneurship.7. The deep tech sector is expected to shape the future of technology and innovation. With the potential decline in the software business, there will be a shift of capital towards deep tech ventures, leading to new opportunities and challenges for the VC industry.Chapters00:00 Trailer 01:12 Introduction / Venture Investing and Consulting22:33 What kind of cap table screw up and importance of scorecard?33:04 Building a Better Founding Team41:03 What matrics are used to evaluate startups 47:45 Becoming a VC in the Deep Tech Space46:14 Measuring Traction in Startups53:55 Becoming a VC in the Deep Tech Space55:35 Emerging Trends in the Deep Tech Sector01:01:03 Ritual Time ( What's the worst decision he made )01:02:31 Ending Connect with Mudassir 🎥 YouTube Channel - @prodcircleHQ 🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/ProdcircleHQ📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/prodcirclehq💻 Website - https://prodcircle.com/👥 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mudassir-mustafa/

SummaryJoin us as we dive into the world of product market fit with Aaron Michael of 1984 Ventures. In this episode, we discuss the importance of finding product market fit for startups and the role venture capital plays in the process. Tune in for valuable insights and advice from a investor!Takeaways1. The key to success when starting a company is learning and iterating quickly.2. Finding product-market fit requires speed and the ability to pivot when necessary.3. VCs provide support to founders through advice, founder therapy, and assistance with hiring and fundraising.4. Investing in unsexy industries can offer unique opportunities for growth and success.5. Competition can be both beneficial and challenging, and the first mover advantage varies depending on the market dynamics.Chapters00:00 Trailer01:30 Who is Aaron Michael 04:00 How you find product market fit (Espacially for early stage)15:00 Venture capilalist Raising money criteria and Vc gives support to founder19:33 1984 Ventures' Investment Thesis25:00 The Pitfalls of Hype and investing in Unsexy Industries33:23 The Value of Competition and the First Mover Advantage38:18 How Vc's Calculating Total Addressable Market (TAM)43:44 Evolution of Pitch Decks46:30 Evaluation Method and Favorite Slides49:30 Importance of the Team54:30 Pitch Deck and Cap Table Red Flags58:30 Disagreement with Venture Capital Industry01:04:02 Three Things for First-Time Founders01:06:32 Bridge Rounds, Down Rounds, and Valuations01:09:17 Transparent and Honest Feedback01:11:37 Being Contrarian as a VC01:13:50 Ritual01:15:35 Ending Connect with Mudassir 🎥 YouTube Channel - @prodcircleHQ 🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/ProdcircleHQ📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/prodcirclehq💻 Website - https://prodcircle.com/👥 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mudassir-mustafa/

SummaryAre you a first-time founder with a brilliant startup idea but unsure how to get the funding to make it a reality?  This podcast is your roadmap to success!Join Eva who is a seasoned VC industry professional as she empowers you with the knowledge and practical steps to secure funding for your venture. We'll delve into everything from venture capital and alternative funding methods to crafting a killer pitch deck and negotiating the right valuation.Takeaways1. The VC world has a dark side, with risks including boosting businesses that are not economically viable.2. Creating an effective pitch deck involves structuring it properly and focusing on problem and target market slides, solution and competitive advantage slides, and market size and financial projections.3. Building a waitlist can be a valuable strategy for startups, as it demonstrates market interest and potential customer demand.4. Success stories often emerge from down markets, and being the second runner up can lead to great success.5. Founders should carefully consider metrics, valuation, and cap table management to ensure fundraising success.Chapters00:00 Trailer01:30 Who is Eva 04:44 Are you qualify for VC money? (First time founder MUST LISTEN) 08:00 Eva Key Takeaways from Working in Startups13:35 Why Agency Models Are Not Venture-Backed16:35 What other raising methods founder should look26:40 What Value of Incubators and Accelerators in first time founder life38:40 How Eva helping to raise money and what valuation to give (MUST LISTEN) 45:50 The Dark Side of the VC World50:20 How to create an effective pitch deck01:06:35 Metrics Founders Should Care About01:10:42 When to use Convertible Notes or Safe Notes01:12:37 How Eva Navigating Valuation01:17:45 Cap Table Red Flags01:25:21 Is Fundraising a Success?01:19:45 Ritual Time 01:21:13 Ending Connect with Mudassir 🎥 YouTube Channel - @prodcircleHQ 🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/ProdcircleHQ📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/prodcirclehq💻 Website - https://prodcircle.com/👥 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mudassir-mustafa/

SummaryConfused about "cap tables" and fundraising? This episode is your guide! We explain what a cap table is and why it's important for startups. Plus, VC expert Jeff Crusey reveals the warning signs investors look for in a cap table.  Learn how to avoid these red flags and build a cap table that sets your startup up for success!  This episode is perfect for first-time founders and anyone interested in venture capital.Takeaways1. Background in the industry is important for VC investors in deep tech2. Deep tech startups often remain in stealth mode to retire engineering risk3. Traction in deep tech varies depending on the business model and industry4. Valuation of deep tech companies is influenced by fund size and risk profile5. Being the first money in can provide an edge for VC investors6. Founder chemistry is crucial for the success of a startup7. Post-money SAFEs have drawbacks, including dilution and lack of due diligence8. Venture studios and accelerators can vary in their effectiveness and support9. YC has been popularized but may have some hype surrounding it10. The best and worst pitches can vary in terms of insight and executionCahpters00:00 Trailer‍01:40 Introduction‍06:02 Question Unclear‍07:24 What Is Investment Thesis of 7%09:41 Why deep tech startup stay in stealth mode / How VC's evaluate of deep tech ideas‍14:10 How VC's track good pitch deck. (First time founder need to listen)‍15:32 Understand the though process of VC's (Must listen if you want funding)‍28:10 Failure rate in deep tech catagoery according to VC29:37 Difficulties in building humanite and biotech products31:37 How much management team and founders expertise are required33:23 Jeff favourate pitch deck slides36:07 Cons of Post-Money SAFE37:25 Opinion on Venture Studios and Accelerators42:10 Best and Worst Pitches47:00 Raising money is success metrics49:28 Cap Table Red Flag52:08 Did VC's providing clear feedback to founders‍53:25 Ritual Time‍54:39 ConclusionConnect with Mudassir 🎥 YouTube Channel - @prodcircleHQ 🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/ProdcircleHQ📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/prodcirclehq💻 Website - https://prodcircle.com/👥 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mudassir-mustafa/

SummaryToday's guests is Francesco Petricarari of Silicon Roundabout Ventures who primarily invests in Deep Tech and Hard Tech. Francesco is an early stage deep tech VC who shares the importance of founding team, VC founder fit, having the right board member, and a lot more. Takeaways1.Founder-led funds provide advantages in terms of understanding the challenges faced by founders and offering relevant support.2. Deep tech encompasses companies that focus on technology development rather than just business growth.3. Evaluation of deep tech startups requires a focus on the team, their expertise, and their ability to build a sustainable business.4. The team slide in a pitch deck is crucial as it showcases the founders' strengths and their potential to execute their vision. The team and their unique qualifications are crucial in a startup pitch.5. Key slides in a pitch deck include the team, market opportunity, and technology.6. Deep tech and hardware startups are on the rise due to increased demand for security and climate solutions.7. Moving from prototype to mass production in hardware startups requires building the right supply chains and finding the right advisors.8. AI in deep tech should go beyond current systems and offer unique applications.Chapters00:00 Trailer‍01:50 Introduction‍05:00 What is Deep Tech and why is it exciting?‍09:00 How experienced founders help early stage founders in Deep Tech with investing‍12:50 Achieving the right VC-Founder Fit (Crucial insights for new founders)‍16:36 Why the era of Unicorns has ended‍20:50 The 40 Rule's importance and how VCs judge businesses‍24:20 Why VCs really like SAAS startups‍29:25  Why many companies fail after getting lots of VC money‍33:15 Strategies for building a sustainable business in Deep Tech‍38:22 What VCs look for in a Pitch Deck for Deep Tech Startups and How He Evaluate‍53:21 In-depth analysis of Deep Tech trends and insights‍58:50 Challenges that founders of hardware companies need to know about‍1:04:40 Strategies for generating innovative Deep Tech ideas‍1:08:40 Deep Tech and AI‍1:13:00 Ritual TimeConnect with Mudassir 🎥 YouTube Channel - @prodcircleHQ 🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/ProdcircleHQ📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/prodcirclehq💻 Website - https://prodcircle.com/👥 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mudassir-mustafa/

SummaryLearn how VCs evaluate your idea from early stage founder and investor Sam Marchant of Hambro Perks. Get insider tips on how to craft a successful pitch deck and stand out as a first-time founder in the competitive world of startup and CPG brands. Don't miss this valuable advice from an experienced entrepreneur!Takeaways1.Observing entrepreneurship in childhood can have a significant impact on one's career path.2.Consumer product goods (CPG) startups face unique challenges, including the need for innovation and the difficulty of standing out in a crowded market.3.Consumer companies often require more time and capital to scale, making them less attractive to VC investors.4.The VC industry has evolved, with a wider range of investors and a focus on different types of returns.Chapters  00:00 Trailer 01:48 Who is Sam Marchant 08:00 Learning from SAM: Building to Sold Startup Journey 13:30 Why Not Work with Friends and Family / Deep Insights about CPG Brands 26:23 - How VCs add value to startups? 30:50 Venture Capitalists' Judgment of Founders: An Operator's Perspective 34:52 Important Characteristics for First-Time Founders 38:40 VC Pitch Deck Selection Process: A Challenge for Early-Stage Founders (Very Important) 55:30 How to Create a Pitch Deck: Lessons from a VC 1:02:10 Calculating Market Size 1:05:55 Why Venture Capital Money Is SEXY 1:11:15 Deal Negotiation with Venture Capitalists for Early-Stage Founders 1:16:50 Most Common Questions from First-Time Founders (Must Watch) 1:23:10 Ritual Time: Previous Guest's Question for Sam 1:25:20 EndingConnect with Mudassir 🎥 YouTube Channel - @prodcircleHQ 🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/ProdcircleHQ📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/prodcirclehq💻 Website - https://prodcircle.com/👥 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mudassir-mustafa/

Summary In this conversation, Alyona Mysko discusses her journey in finance and the motivation behind building a financial management product. She shares her early interest in math and economics, as well as the inspiration she received from professors and corporate finance professionals. Alyona emphasizes the importance of making finance accessible and easy to understand for both financial and non-financial people. She also highlights the current demand for financial management solutions and the company's evolution from offering services to building a product.Takeaways1. Alyona's passion for finance and her background in managing finance led her to build a financial management product.2. The company's goal is to make finance accessible and easy to understand for both financial and non-financial people.3. There is a high demand for financial management solutions, especially during periods of financial downturn.4. The company started by offering services in financial management and evolved to build a product based on customer needs.Chapters00:00 Introduction01:18 Who Is Alyona Mysko03:40 What is Fuel Finance06:52 How to validate idea and how much time it takes 10:20 First time founder guide on hiring people16:50 What's the metric to identify product success18:55 What is revenue per employee21:23 How first time found raise venture capital and what are the strategies25:25 How to look right investor 26:06 What is the right way to write PITCH DECK30:50 What is Goto Market strategy31:58 How to lead a team as a leader36:50 Learning points for first time founders39:03 Enterpreunership, Fin Tech and Startup trends in 2024 41:22 Fuel finance launches42:26 Recent Guest Question for Alyona Mysko 43:16 ConclusionConnect with Mudassir 🎥 YouTube Channel - @prodcircleHQ 🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/ProdcircleHQ📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/prodcirclehq💻 Website - https://prodcircle.com/👥 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mudassir-mustafa/

Looking to build a $100 million business? Join startup business podcast with our guest Daniel Priestley. He shares his insights on how to build a $100 million business. From finding your niche to creating a solid business plan, Daniel will cover the key steps to building a successful startup. Don't miss out on this valuable advice from one of the top business minds in the industry!-------------------------------------------------*Prodcircle Insider*Join ~15,000+ founders and VCs in the US. Build better, Raise better, Exit Better.* Your First Startup Journey: https://newsletter.prodcircle.com/profile-------------------------------------------------Chapters00:00 Introduction and Early Life03:45 Entrepreneurship and Starting a Business06:17 Why Start a Business and Scaling a Business10:03 Managing Multiple Businesses12:51 Hiring Great Talent15:46 Acquisitions and Exits25:31 Starting a Business and Building Value32:53 Starting a Business Today38:19 Agency Businesses vs. D2C or SaaS Businesses40:50 The Importance of Demand Generation43:18 The Journey of an Entrepreneur45:52 Building a Personal Brand54:07 Who Should Raise Money and Why58:24 Venture Capital and Entrepreneurship01:01:04 When to Raise Money01:05:34 Daniel's Experience with Boom and Bust01:15:46 Impact of Daniel's Books01:16:14 The Role of Luck in Business Success01:19:09 The Future of AI-Enabled SaaS Businesses01:22:31 Dealing with Negative Comments and Feedback01:23:59 The Power of Writing a Book for Entrepreneurs01:28:41 The Step-by-Step Process of Starting a Successful Business01:31:53 Starting a New Business in 202401:38:15 The Influence of Having Kids on Business01:42:06 Preparing Children for the Future of AI-----------------------------------------------------------🔗 CONNECT WITH DANIEL PRIESTLYRead His Books: https://danielpriestley.com/daniel-priestley-books/Linkdin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielpriestley/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DanielPriestleyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/danielpriestley/-----------------------------------------------------------🔗 CONNECT WITH MUDASSIR 🎥 YouTube Channel -  @prodcircleHQ    🐦 Twitter -  https://twitter.com/ProdcircleHQ / prodcirclehq  💻 Website - https://prodcircle.com/👥 Linkedin -  https://www.linkedin.com/company/prodcirclehq/📄SHOW NOTES & TRANSCRIPTVisit the website for the transcript and highlights from the conversation - https://www.prodcircle.com/podcast🎧 LISTEN FOR FREE Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/7MKODYG...Google Podcast  - https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0...RSS - https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2189808.rss👋🏼 GET IN TOUCH You can also Tweet @prodcirclehq with any feedback, ideas, or thoughts about the lessons you've learned from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in 🙏Looking to work with Mudassir, drop an email.Connect with Mudassir 🎥 YouTube Channel - @prodcircleHQ 🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/ProdcircleHQ📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/prodcirclehq💻 Website - https://prodcircle.com/👥 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mudassir-mustafa/

60% startups dont split equity 50-50The conversation with Peter Walker covers various topics related to startups, including structuring compensation packages, equity distribution among early hires, co-founder splits, raising capital, startup failure rates, and alternative financing options. Peter shares insights based on data from Carta, providing valuable information for founders and investors. The conversation highlights the challenges and opportunities in the startup ecosystem, particularly in the context of the changing landscape in 2023. Overall, the discussion provides valuable insights into the world of startups and venture capital. In this conversation, Peter Walker discusses various aspects of venture capital and startup funding. He provides insights into different funding rounds, including pre-seed, seed, and series A. He also highlights the changing valuations in the venture capital landscape. Peter shares his thoughts on concerns about investment in SaaS startups and the differences between B2B and B2C SaaS companies. He discusses the trends he is excited about in 2024, including the shift towards capital-efficient startups and the growth of hard sciences. Peter emphasizes the importance of data storytelling and shares his perspective on the future of AI. He also discusses red flags to watch out for in cap tables.Chapters00:00 Introduction00:38 Understanding Peter Walker's Background02:21 The Best and Worst Parts of Peter's Job03:44 Structuring Compensation Packages in 202307:11 Equity Distribution Among First Five Hires10:45 Factors Influencing Co-Founder Split and CEO Background15:09 The Impact of 2023 on Startups19:11 Raising Capital as a Success Metric21:34 Startup Failure Rates and Reasons for Closure25:24 Exploring Alternative Financing Options29:18 Evaluating Startups and Factors Influencing Valuation34:13 The Use of SAFEs in Fundraising36:25 Raising Multiple SAFEs and Conversion39:46 Comparison of Valuations in Pre-Seed, Seed, and Series A Rounds41:28 Pre-Seed and Angel Rounds42:28 Seed Rounds43:26 Series A44:46 Later Stage Rounds45:29 Investor Concerns about SaaS Startups46:43 B2B vs B2C SaaS Companies48:44 Future of Crypto, Web3, and AI50:43 Trends in 202456:19 Importance of Data Storytelling58:55 Cap Table Red FlagsConnect with Mudassir 🎥 YouTube Channel - @prodcircleHQ 🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/ProdcircleHQ📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/prodcirclehq💻 Website - https://prodcircle.com/👥 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mudassir-mustafa/

If you're an early-stage startup founder and want to take your startup to the next level with venture capitalist funding, even if you've failed to secure funding in the past, don't worry! In today's episode, we're joined by Jenny Fielding venture capitalist who will teach you how to get venture capital (VC) funding, including: how to pitch them, what qualities they want, and other things venture capitalists look for before investing in any startup. No matter your past experience, this episode will equip you with the knowledge and strategies you need to attract VC funding and launch your startup to success.*About Podcast Episode*Jenny Fielding, Managing Director at Techstars and Founder of Everywhere Ventures, shares insights on evaluating founders and their ideas, the unique structure of Everywhere Ventures, managing a large community of founders, and the impact of 2023 on startups and venture capital. She emphasizes the importance of resilience, vision, and responsiveness in founders, and highlights the need for founders to focus on the future and the market opportunity. Jenny also discusses the value of working with founders from zero to one and the challenges and opportunities in the venture capital industry. In this conversation, Jenny discusses the challenges of venture capital and the need for resilience and grit in the industry. She shares her personal experience of almost opting out of venture capital before achieving success. The conversation also touches on the topic of preparing children for the future, emphasizing the importance of a well-rounded education. Finally, the conversation concludes with a reflection on the turbulent year of 2023 and a question for the next guest about their word for 2024.Takeaways*Resilience, vision, and responsiveness are key qualities to look for in founders.*Investing in future-oriented ideas requires understanding the market opportunity and the founder's vision.*The unique structure of Everywhere Ventures, with a community of founders as LPs, provides a collaborative and supportive environment.Managing a high volume of pitches requires asynchronous and automated processes.*Founders should focus on inspiring investors and sharing their vision, rather than getting bogged down in the details.*Founders should optimize their business for customers rather than investors, and consider alternative funding options if venture capital is not the right fit.*The challenges faced by startups and venture capital in 2023 have led to a focus on resilience and fundamentals.*Pitch decks are important for providing an overview of the business, but the narrative and story are what distinguish a good deck.*The role of institutional money in startups depends on the founder's goals and the scalability of the business.*Working with founders from zero to one provides the opportunity to support and mentor early-stage companies.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background02:14 Qualities of a Successful Founder05:41 Evaluating Future-Oriented Ideas08:57 Investing in Blockchain and Cryptocurrency11:13 The Unique Structure of Everywhere Ventures14:37 Managing a Large Community of Founders17:23 Managing a High Volume of Pitches21:13 Mistakes Founders Make When Pitching to VCs23:53 Optimizing Business for Investors vs. Customers24:48 The Value of Working with Founders from Zero to One27:56 The Impact of 2023 on Startups and Venture Capital29:32 The Importance of Pitch Decks and Attention Span31:57 The Different Paths for Raising Capital34:10 The Challenges of 20Connect with Mudassir 🎥 YouTube Channel - @prodcircleHQ 🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/ProdcircleHQ📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/prodcirclehq💻 Website - https://prodcircle.com/👥 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mudassir-mustafa/

SummaryIn this conversation, Preston Rutherford discusses his early life, memories, and how his upbringing shaped him as an entrepreneur. He shares the reasons behind building Chubbies and Loop Returns, emphasizing the importance of using personal experiences as fuel for entrepreneurship. Preston also provides insights into the concept of branding, explaining that it goes beyond logos and design elements. He discusses the role of advertising for established brands and startups, highlighting the need for a balance between transactional ads and storytelling. Lastly, he shares how he and his co-founders maintained a successful business partnership by dividing roles and responsibilities and fostering open communication. In this conversation, Preston Rutherford shares insights and experiences from his journey as a co-founder of Chubbies Shorts and Loop Returns. He discusses the organic process of finding co-founders and the importance of respect and alignment in a founding team. Preston also talks about building and scaling a team, emphasizing the significance of culture and values. He addresses the challenges faced by venture-backed CPG businesses and the lessons that can be learned from the SaaS industry. The conversation concludes with a question for the next guest about their biggest setback and how they chose to persist.TakeawaysFinding co-founders should be an organic process based on shared ideas, feedback, and excitement.Respect and alignment among co-founders are crucial for a successful partnership.Building and scaling a team requires a balance between being a family and a team.Consumer product businesses take time to grow and require a strong brand and trust from customers.Lessons from the SaaS industry, such as the importance of brand and trust, can be applied to CPG businesses.Connect with Mudassir 🎥 YouTube Channel - @prodcircleHQ 🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/ProdcircleHQ📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/prodcirclehq💻 Website - https://prodcircle.com/👥 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mudassir-mustafa/

SummaryJason Kirby shares his entrepreneurial journey and the challenges he faced in raising venture capital. He emphasizes the importance of determining if a business is venture backable and when to raise money. Jason also discusses the role of growth stage investors and the strategies they employ. He highlights the need for founders to explore non-venture capital routes and the support Thunder.VC provides in navigating complex capital structures. In this conversation, Jason Kirby shares insights and advice on various aspects of venture capital and entrepreneurship. He discusses the value that advisors can bring to founders, the importance of determining the right funding amount and approach, strategies for building a strong founding team, red flags for VCs when evaluating startups, and a fundamental belief in venture capital that he disagrees with. He also poses a thought-provoking question for the next guest.TakeawaysDetermining if a business is venture backable requires considering the potential for scale and the need for significant capital.Founders should carefully evaluate when to raise money and explore non-venture capital options if their business doesn't require large-scale funding.Late-stage VCs have shorter time horizons and aim for lower multiple returns, focusing on companies that are closer to a liquidity event.Liquidation preferences can impact early investors, and founders should be aware of the potential consequences.Thunder.VC provides tools and resources to help founders navigate the fundraising process and make informed decisions.Chapters00:00 Jason Kirby's Entrepreneurial Journey04:03 The Decision to Raise Money06:04 When to Raise Money and Why08:49 Determining if a Business is Venture Backable14:37 The Challenges of Raising Venture Capital17:27 How Thunder.VC Helps Founders21:36 The Common Denominator in Successful Fundraising23:34 Exploring Non-Venture Capital Routes29:51 The Investment Strategies of Late-Stage VCs36:33 Liquidation Preferences and Impact on Early Investors38:44 Helping Founders Navigate Complex Capital Structures39:16 Providing Value to Founders41:13 Determining Funding Amount and Approach44:21 Building a Strong Founding Team47:00 Red Flags for VCs51:17 Disagreement with Fundamental Belief in Venture Capital53:16 Question for Next GuestConnect with Mudassir 🎥 YouTube Channel - @prodcircleHQ 🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/ProdcircleHQ📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/prodcirclehq💻 Website - https://prodcircle.com/👥 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mudassir-mustafa/

Dreaming of building a powerhouse brand, but your bank account whispers sweet nothings about marketing budgets? Fear not, scrappy startup warriors! This video is your secret weapon, packed with winning strategies to propel your brand to success, even on a shoestring budget.Forget fancy agencies and sky-high ad spends. We're diving deep into the world of DIY branding magic, showing you how to craft a powerful brand identity that resonates with your audience, all without breaking the bank. We'll unveil the secrets of low-cost marketing tactics that can turn your social media channels into lead magnets and your content into brand-building gold.From social media branding hacks to free design tools that work wonders, we'll equip you with the practical know-how to build a visually stunning and strategically sound brand. You'll discover how to harness the power of storytelling to connect with your customers on an emotional level and turn them into loyal brand advocates.This video is more than just a collection of tips and tricks; it's a battle cry for bootstrapping entrepreneurs. We'll share the inspiring stories of real startups who defied the odds and built iconic brands with nothing but grit, creativity, and our very own "Brand on a Budget" playbook.So, ditch the excuses and dust off your bootstrapping boots. This video is your roadmap to branding domination, proving that even the smallest spark can ignite a brand inferno. Get ready to unlock your brand's hidden potential, conquer the market, and achieve startup success – all without breaking the bank!Are you ready to join the "Brand on a Budget" revolution? Click play and let's get started!*Don't forget to smash that like button and subscribe for more startup wisdom. And remember, sharing is caring, so spread the word and let's help every entrepreneur build a brand they can be proud of!-----------------------------------------------------------🔗 CONNECT WITH MUDASSIR 🎥 YouTube Channel -  @prodcircleHQ    🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/ProdcircleHQ📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/prodcirclehq💻 Website - https://prodcircle.com/👥 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mudassir-mustafa/📄SHOW NOTES & TRANSCRIPTVisit the website for the transcript and highlights from the conversation - https://www.prodcircle.com/podcast🎧 LISTEN FOR FREE Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prodcricle-with-mudassir-mustafa/id1688602416Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/7MKODYGDeiWP4Y5xUpih31?si=7ce29a73d8724ac2Google Podcast  - https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5idXp6c3Byb3V0LmNvbS8yMTg5ODA4LnJzcwRSS - https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2189808.rss🙏 LEAVE A REVIEW If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we'd love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show :) https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prodcricle-with-mudassir-mustafa/id1688602416👋🏼 GET IN TOUCH You can also Tweet @prodcirclehq with any feedback, ideas, or thoughts about the lessons you've learned from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in 🙏Looking to work with Mudassir, drop an email.Connect with Mudassir 🎥 YouTube Channel - @prodcircleHQ 🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/ProdcircleHQ📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/prodcirclehq💻 Website - https://prodcircle.com/👥 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mudassir-mustafa/

This conversation explores the rise and fall of Theranos, the credibility of visionary leaders, the influence of media, and the changing landscape of entrepreneurship. The discussion highlights the importance of cohorts and the role they play in determining the success and viability of companies. It also delves into the impact of education and elitism in the entrepreneurial world. The conversation concludes with insights into the passion for problem-solving and the enjoyment derived from helping others. In this conversation, Seth Yakatan shares his insights on various topics related to entrepreneurship and venture capital. He discusses the importance of investing in the right cohorts and avoiding projects that are part of saturated cohorts. He also expresses his concerns about the rapid advancement of AI and robotics, emphasizing the importance of human empathy. Seth highlights the value of building a personal brand on LinkedIn and the benefits it can bring in terms of networking and business opportunities. He also points out common mistakes made by young entrepreneurs and shares his perspective on going public and the consequences it entails. Lastly, Seth challenges the notion that entrepreneurship can be taught, suggesting that it is an innate quality rather than a learned skill.TakeawaysThe failure of Theranos highlights the dangers of believing in visionary leaders without questioning their claims and ensuring the validity of their technology.Media plays a significant role in shaping public perception and can contribute to the rise and fall of high-valuation companies.The credibility of Forbes and similar publications may be questioned due to their association with individuals and companies that later turn out to be fraudulent.The entrepreneurial landscape has evolved over the years, with increased access to capital and a larger pool of entrepreneurs, making it more competitive.Cohorts are important in assessing the viability and fundability of companies, and understanding where a company stands within its cohort can provide valuable insights. Investing in the right cohorts is crucial for success in entrepreneurship and venture capital.The rapid advancement of AI and robotics raises concerns about the loss of human empathy and the potential risks to humanity.Building a personal brand on LinkedIn can be a valuable tool for networking and creating business opportunities.Common mistakes made by young entrepreneurs include forcing outcomes, not listening to feedback, and using inaccurate comparable valuations.Going public can provide access to capital and liquidity, but it also comes with the challenges of managing public expectations and quarterly earnings.Entrepreneurship may be an innate quality that cannot be taught, and success often depends on the ability to sell and navigate the entrepreneurial landscape.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background00:38 The Story of Theranos04:03 The Failure of Theranos06:14 Belief in Visionary Leaders09:05 Credibility of Forbes and Media Influence11:25 The Rise and Fall of High-Valuation Companies18:55 The Role of Education and Elitism in Entrepreneurship24:43 Passion for Helping and Problem Solving32:55 The Changing Landscape of Entrepreneurship37:20 Understanding Cohorts and Innovation43:27 Investing in Cohorts44:23 The Importance and Nebulousness of AI45:03 Concerns about AI and Robotics49:38 Building a Personal Brand on LinkedIn54:09 Mistakes Young Entrepreneurs Make59:58 Going Public: Reasons and Consequences01:08:42 Contrarian View on Connect with Mudassir 🎥 YouTube Channel - @prodcircleHQ 🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/ProdcircleHQ📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/prodcirclehq💻 Website - https://prodcircle.com/👥 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mudassir-mustafa/

Raymond Luke shares his early context, growing up with teacher-entrepreneur parents, and the decision to wind down Year One Labs. He discusses the qualities of a good advisor and the problem with media and information on fundraising. Raymond emphasizes the importance of critical thinking in consuming advice and shares his perspective on who should raise money and when. He also explains the thesis behind Flow Ventures and HockeyStick and highlights the differences between the Canadian and US fundraising markets. The conversation covers topics such as venture studios vs. venture capital, the pros and cons of SAFE notes, the role of gaming and simulations in entrepreneurship, common mistakes in pitching, traction metrics for early-stage startups, common mistakes and misunderstood terms in cap tables, and the timing of IPOs. In this conversation, Raymond and Mudassir discuss the challenges of early investing, the impact of AI on fundraising, the role of pitch decks in fundraising, what investors look for in founders, and a contrarian opinion on the future of entrepreneurial finance.TakeawaysVenture studios provide a different approach to venture capital, focusing on building interesting products rather than just raising money.Entrepreneurs should consider the benefits of venture studios and accelerators when starting a company.Understanding the mechanics of SAFE notes is crucial for founders to make informed decisions about fundraising.Gaming and simulations can be effective tools for teaching entrepreneurship and fundraising concepts.Pitch decks should focus on what makes the company special and unique, rather than just following a standard checklist.Early-stage startups should emphasize traction metrics that demonstrate a strong grip on the market, even if traditional growth metrics are not yet available.Founders should have a solid understanding of cap tables and ownership dynamics to make informed decisions about fundraising and control.The timing of an IPO depends on various factors, including market conditions and the company's growth trajectory. Early investors often face challenges such as being diluted or pushed out of a company during later funding rounds.AI has the potential to radically change fundraising by improving efficiency and providing better deal flow for both VCs and entrepreneurs.Pitch decks are still important in fundraising as they serve as a standardized way for VCs to screen potential investments and help founders articulate their vision.Investors look for founders who have a genuine passion and purpose behind their business, as this is what drives long-term success.The future of entrepreneurial finance may see a rise in companies with one owner and no employees, leveraging AI to create smaller, lighter, and more efficient businesses.Chapters00:00Introduction and Early Context03:00Growing Up with Teacher-Entrepreneur Parents06:00Year One Labs and the Decision to Wind Down34:35The Thesis Behind Flow Ventures and HockeyStick47:08Opinion on Y Combinator01:10:02Common Mistakes and Misunderstood Terms in Cap Tables01:18:23The Timing of IPOs01:23:28Challenges of Early Investing01:29:15The Impact of AI on Fundraising01:35:47The Role of Pitch Decks in Fundraising01:37:34What Investors Look for in Founders01:40:35Contrarian Opinion on the Future of Entrepreneurial FinanceConnect with Mudassir 🎥 YouTube Channel - @prodcircleHQ 🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/ProdcircleHQ📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/prodcirclehq💻 Website - https://prodcircle.com/👥 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mudassir-mustafa/

In this video, Katie Dunn provides valuable perspectives and highlights challenges faced by entrepreneurs who are often marginalized in the funding landscape. This video serves as an important contribution to the ongoing conversation about fostering inclusivity and equal opportunities in the business and investment sectors.Katie Dunn spent 25+ years financing over $10 billion in commercial real estate for various banks and financial institutions. She has now pivoted full-time to focusing on her global angel investment portfolio, funding underrepresented founders in CPG and tech, and helping founders get funded faster by advising them on their pitch, deck, and fundraising strategy as a partner in Power To Pitch. She also sits on the board of an Irish spirits company, Outcast Brands.✨ 𝐉𝐎𝐈𝐍 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐝𝐜𝐢𝐫𝐜𝐥𝐞✨➟Prodcircle channel: 🔗https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCun-R2Je_ABAael-6W12psA🍁 𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐝𝐜𝐢𝐫𝐜𝐥𝐞 🍁Welcome to Prodcircle, the podcast for entrepreneurs, startups, and venture capital!In each episode, Entrepreneur, YouTuber, Podcaster, and angel investor Mudassir has conversations with top VCs, founders of unicorn startups, and angel investors around fundraising, building successful startups, mental health, and startup challenges.Whether you're just starting out on your entrepreneurial journey or you're a seasoned founder, Prodcircle has something for everyone. You'll learn from the best in the business and get the insights you need to succeed.🔗 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐍𝐄𝐂𝐓 𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐇 𝐌𝐔𝐃𝐀𝐒𝐒𝐈𝐑🎥 YouTube Channel -  @prodcircleHQ    🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/ProdcircleHQ📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/prodcirclehq💻 Website - https://prodcircle.com/👥 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mudassir-mustafa/📄𝐒𝐇𝐎𝐖 𝐍𝐎𝐓𝐄𝐒 & 𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐍𝐒𝐂𝐑𝐈𝐏𝐓Visit the website for the transcript and highlights from the conversation - https://www.prodcircle.com/podcast🙏𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐕𝐄 𝐀 𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we'd love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show :)https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prodcricle-with-mudassir-mustafa/id1688602416https://open.spotify.com/show/7MKODYGDeiWP4Y5xUpih31Thanks for watching this - From Commercial Real Estate to Angel Investing - A Conversation with Katie Dunn | Ep #29 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐒𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬building an investment portfolioinvestment wisdomangel investingfundraising strategiesConnect with Mudassir 🎥 YouTube Channel - @prodcircleHQ 🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/ProdcircleHQ📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/prodcirclehq💻 Website - https://prodcircle.com/👥 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mudassir-mustafa/

Get unfiltered insights on entrepreneurship and startup fundraising from 6x founder Shay Houser. In this raw interview, Shay shares lessons learned from his extreme highs and lows over 20+ years building tech startups.He explains why many founders are underprepared for institutional VC money and how it can be a "curse" if taken too early. Shay stresses the importance of founder-investor fit, realistic capital planning, and building an empowering startup culture.Other topics include:- Shay's winding journey from military college to VC- Why you shouldn't blindly pursue brands like YC or a16z- How to clearly communicate your startup's vision and needs to investors- Shocking data on low unicorn success rates - even for top accelerators- The redemptive story of Shay's addiction, recovery, and finding purposeThis unfiltered founder interview is a must-listen for anyone in the startup world. Shay Houser offers hard-earned lessons for fundraising, leadership, culture, and maintaining perspective.✨ 𝐉𝐎𝐈𝐍 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐝𝐜𝐢𝐫𝐜𝐥𝐞✨➟Prodcircle channel: 🔗https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCun-R2Je_ABAael-6W12psA🍁 𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐝𝐜𝐢𝐫𝐜𝐥𝐞 🍁Welcome to Prodcircle, the podcast for entrepreneurs, startups, and venture capital!In each episode, Entrepreneur, YouTuber, Podcaster, and angel investor Mudassir has conversations with top VCs, founders of unicorn startups, and angel investors around fundraising, building successful startups, mental health, and startup challenges.Whether you're just starting out on your entrepreneurial journey or you're a seasoned founder, Prodcircle has something for everyone. You'll learn from the best in the business and get the insights you need to succeed.Why subscribe to Prodcircle?1. Prodcircle features interviews with top VCs, founders of unicorn startups, and angel investors.2. You'll learn the latest trends and best practices in venture capital, startups, and entrepreneurship.3. Prodcircle will inspire you to achieve your entrepreneurial dreams.Subscribe to Prodcircle today and start building the company of your dreams!🔗 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐍𝐄𝐂𝐓 𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐇 𝐌𝐔𝐃𝐀𝐒𝐒𝐈𝐑🎥 YouTube Channel -  @prodcircleHQ    🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/ProdcircleHQ📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/prodcirclehq💻 Website - https://prodcircle.com/👥 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mudassir-mustafa/📄𝐒𝐇𝐎𝐖 𝐍𝐎𝐓𝐄𝐒 & 𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐍𝐒𝐂𝐑𝐈𝐏𝐓Visit the website for the transcript and highlights from the conversation - https://www.prodcircle.com/podcast🙏𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐕𝐄 𝐀 𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we'd love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show :) https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prodcricle-with-mudassir-mustafa/id1688602416👋🏼𝐆𝐄𝐓 𝐈𝐍 𝐓𝐎𝐔𝐂𝐇You can also Tweet @prodcirclehq with any feedback, ideas, or thoughts about the lessons you've learned from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in 🙏Looking to work with Mudassir, drop an email.𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐒𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬fundraising challengesentrepreneurial lessonsstartup fundraising insightsshay houser interviewstartup fundraisinghard lessons on startup fundraising6X founder shay houserConnect with Mudassir 🎥 YouTube Channel - @prodcircleHQ 🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/ProdcircleHQ📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/prodcirclehq💻 Website - https://prodcircle.com/👥 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mudassir-mustafa/

The Art of Building a Purpose-Driven Consumer Brand | How To Build A BRAND? Learn from Simple Modern co-founder Mike Beckham as he shares his playbook for building a purpose-driven consumer brand and company culture. In this transparent interview, Mike explains Simple Modern’s mission-focused approach and how they create outsized value for customers.Mike stresses the importance of enjoying each stage of the journey rather than fixating on goals. He shares tactics for strengthening company culture, gathering customer insights for rapid iteration, and establishing brand loyalty even in a commoditized market.Key topics include:- Mike’s origin story and how his nonprofit experience shaped Simple Modern’s values- Ways to breed a sense of ownership in culture so it scales gracefully- Actionable strategies for constant product improvement based on user feedback- How to build emotional connections and brand affinity with customers- Why it’s critical to find meaning and purpose in exactly where you're situatedMike also shares his stream-of-consciousness approach if he were starting a new D2C brand today.Whether you’re building a purpose-driven company or aspire to become a thoughtful business leader, don’t miss the tactical insights from Mike Beckham.-----------------------------------------------------------🔗 CONNECT WITH MUDASSIR 🎥 YouTube Channel -  @prodcircleHQ    🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/ProdcircleHQ📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/prodcirclehq💻 Website - https://prodcircle.com/👥 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mudassir-mustafa/📄SHOW NOTES & TRANSCRIPTVisit the website for the transcript and highlights from the conversation - https://www.prodcircle.com/podcast🎧 LISTEN FOR FREE Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prodcricle-with-mudassir-mustafa/id1688602416Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/7MKODYGDeiWP4Y5xUpih31?si=7ce29a73d8724ac2Google Podcast  - https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5idXp6c3Byb3V0LmNvbS8yMTg5ODA4LnJzcwRSS - https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2189808.rss🙏 LEAVE A REVIEW If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we'd love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show :) https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prodcricle-with-mudassir-mustafa/id1688602416👋🏼 GET IN TOUCH You can also Tweet @prodcirclehq with any feedback, ideas, or thoughts about the lessons you've learned from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in 🙏Looking to work with Mudassir, drop an email.Connect with Mudassir 🎥 YouTube Channel - @prodcircleHQ 🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/ProdcircleHQ📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/prodcirclehq💻 Website - https://prodcircle.com/👥 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mudassir-mustafa/

Raise Capital Like a Pro | Insider Tips from a VC By Esther Romanoff (Podcast # 26)Step into the fast-paced world of venture capital and startup funding with Esther Romanoff, an experienced VC investor. In this gripping podcast, Esther lifts the curtain on the mysterious ways VCs evaluate and choose which startups to invest in.Get ready to learn the inside scoop! Esther breaks down what VCs really look for in founders and their teams, how they decide if a product fits the market and is gaining traction, and the differences between early-stage (seed) and growth (Series A) funding.But hold on, there's even more! Esther dishes out practical tips for entrepreneurs on creating killer pitch decks, steering clear of classic fundraising blunders, charming potential investors, and validating those groundbreaking startup ideas.Whether you're an aspiring business owner aiming to secure funding or just someone curious about how the minds of VCs tick, this chat is packed with real-world advice. Esther's candid conversation is your shortcut to understanding the ABCs of VC fundraising. It's all about unlocking practical insights that bridge the gap between startup dreams and successful funding journeys.-----------------------------------------------------------🔗 CONNECT WITH MUDASSIR 🎥 YouTube Channel -  @prodcircleHQ    🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/ProdcircleHQ📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/prodcirclehq💻 Website - https://prodcircle.com/👥 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mudassir-mustafa/📄SHOW NOTES & TRANSCRIPTVisit the website for the transcript and highlights from the conversation - https://www.prodcircle.com/podcast🎧 LISTEN FOR FREE Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prodcricle-with-mudassir-mustafa/id1688602416Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/7MKODYGDeiWP4Y5xUpih31?si=7ce29a73d8724ac2Google Podcast  - https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5idXp6c3Byb3V0LmNvbS8yMTg5ODA4LnJzcwRSS - https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2189808.rss🙏 LEAVE A REVIEW If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we'd love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show :) https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prodcricle-with-mudassir-mustafa/id1688602416👋🏼 GET IN TOUCH You can also Tweet @prodcirclehq with any feedback, ideas, or thoughts about the lessons you've learned from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in 🙏Looking to work with Mudassir, drop an email.Connect with Mudassir 🎥 YouTube Channel - @prodcircleHQ 🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/ProdcircleHQ📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/prodcirclehq💻 Website - https://prodcircle.com/👥 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mudassir-mustafa/