7 in 7 Show with Zack Ellison

Welcome to another insightful episode of The 7 in 7 Show with Zack Ellison, where we explore the cutting edge of venture capital and innovation with the world’s leading investors. Episodes #14A of Season 2 feature Ken Hall, a Partner at Orlando-based DeepWork Capital, where he supports the firm in sourcing and executing investments, fund operations, portfolio management, and more. Prior to DeepWork, Ken worked for IBM in New York City, where he held numerous roles for IBM in Corporate Development and Corporate Venture Capital and supported some of the company's most innovative brands, including IBM Watson, IBM Blockchain, Watson Health, Hybrid Cloud, and IBM Automation. He gained additional venture capital investment experience as a former advisor to 1843 Capital and various family offices, where he supported over a dozen early-stage investments ranging from industrial products to autonomous vehicles and cryptocurrency banks. Ken is currently the Chairman of Startups for the Orlando Tech Community, where he leads initiatives to help early-stage companies throughout Central Florida. He is a frequent guest speaker at Rollins College, Stetson University, and University of Central Florida and is an advisor and mentor to numerous startup accelerator programs and organizations, including Endeavor Miami, Techstars Miami, leAD Lake Nona, and Plug & Play. Ken completed his undergraduate studies summa cum laude and the top of his class at the College of Business of the University of New Haven. He received his MBA with top honors from Boston University. In his free time, Ken enjoys finding new restaurants, trying to be "less awful" at golf, and exploring all that Florida has to offer while still being a die-hard Boston sports fan. In this episode, Zack and Ken discuss: 1. Investment Strategies in Emerging Technologies: Exploring sectors like biotech, life sciences, and enterprise software, and their impact on venture capital. 2. Founder Quality and Resilience in Startups: Why a founder's obsession and persistence are critical at the earliest stages of a startup. 3. Capital Efficiency & Scalable Business Models: Insights into building scalable startups and leveraging capital efficiency for sustainable growth. 4. Valuation Sensitivity and Market Dynamics: How market conditions affect valuation and the importance of strategic entry and exit points in venture capital. 5. The Role of Humility and Confidence in Founders: Balancing confidence and humility to build strong, trustworthy relationships with investors and teams. 6. Current Venture Market Trends and the Future: Analyzing the current state of the venture capital market and what the future holds for early-stage funding. 7. Venture Debt and Diversified Investment Strategies: Understanding the role of venture debt in providing safer access to innovation and its benefits for investors. Guest Information: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kencasehall/ - Website: https://www.deepworkcapital.com/ Host Information: - LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/zackellison/ - Website: ⁠ https://www.arivc.com/ Show Information: - Website: ⁠https://7in7show.com/ - Apple Podcasts: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/7-in-7-show-with-zack-ellison/id1681652927 ⁠ - Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0f2NGukm1OcZYCgVbiwlZX - YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@7in7show - Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/7in7show/ - TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@7in7show - Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/7in7show - Twitter: ⁠https://twitter.com/7in7show DISCLAIMER: https://7in7show.com/disclaimer/

Welcome to another insightful episode of The 7 in 7 Show with Zack Ellison, where we explore the cutting edge of venture capital and innovation with the world’s leading investors. Episodes #14A of Season 2 feature Ken Hall, a Partner at Orlando-based DeepWork Capital, where he supports the firm in sourcing and executing investments, fund operations, portfolio management, and more. Prior to DeepWork, Ken worked for IBM in New York City, where he held numerous roles for IBM in Corporate Development and Corporate Venture Capital and supported some of the company's most innovative brands, including IBM Watson, IBM Blockchain, Watson Health, Hybrid Cloud, and IBM Automation. He gained additional venture capital investment experience as a former advisor to 1843 Capital and various family offices, where he supported over a dozen early-stage investments ranging from industrial products to autonomous vehicles and cryptocurrency banks. Ken is currently the Chairman of Startups for the Orlando Tech Community, where he leads initiatives to help early-stage companies throughout Central Florida. He is a frequent guest speaker at Rollins College, Stetson University, and University of Central Florida and is an advisor and mentor to numerous startup accelerator programs and organizations, including Endeavor Miami, Techstars Miami, leAD Lake Nona, and Plug & Play. Ken completed his undergraduate studies summa cum laude and the top of his class at the College of Business of the University of New Haven. He received his MBA with top honors from Boston University. In his free time, Ken enjoys finding new restaurants, trying to be "less awful" at golf, and exploring all that Florida has to offer while still being a die-hard Boston sports fan. In this episode, Zack and Ken discuss: 1. Investment Strategies in Emerging Technologies: Exploring sectors like biotech, life sciences, and enterprise software, and their impact on venture capital. 2. Founder Quality and Resilience in Startups: Why a founder's obsession and persistence are critical at the earliest stages of a startup. 3. Capital Efficiency & Scalable Business Models: Insights into building scalable startups and leveraging capital efficiency for sustainable growth. 4. Valuation Sensitivity and Market Dynamics: How market conditions affect valuation and the importance of strategic entry and exit points in venture capital. 5. The Role of Humility and Confidence in Founders: Balancing confidence and humility to build strong, trustworthy relationships with investors and teams. 6. Current Venture Market Trends and the Future: Analyzing the current state of the venture capital market and what the future holds for early-stage funding. 7. Venture Debt and Diversified Investment Strategies: Understanding the role of venture debt in providing safer access to innovation and its benefits for investors. Guest Information: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kencasehall/ - Website: https://www.deepworkcapital.com/ Host Information: - LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/zackellison/ - Website: ⁠ https://www.arivc.com/ Show Information: - Website: ⁠https://7in7show.com/ - Apple Podcasts: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/7-in-7-show-with-zack-ellison/id1681652927 ⁠ - Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0f2NGukm1OcZYCgVbiwlZX - YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@7in7show - Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/7in7show/ - TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@7in7show - Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/7in7show - Twitter: ⁠https://twitter.com/7in7show DISCLAIMER: https://7in7show.com/disclaimer/

Welcome to another episode of The 7 in 7 Show with Zack Ellison, which features full length interviews with the world’s leading investors in innovation. Episode #13A of Season 2 features Scott Kelly, CEO of Black Dog Venture Partners, Host of VC Fast Pitch, and Strategic Advisor to TCA Southeast. Scott Kelly is a 30-year fundraising, marketing, sales, training and publicity veteran. Scott has raised hundreds of millions of dollars in capital for disruptive companies, garnered national media coverage for hundreds of regional and national brands and generated hundreds of millions of dollars in revenues for the companies he has represented. He has also trained over 1,000 salespeople and has taught marketing at the university level in the United States and Europe. In this episode, Zack Ellison and Scott Kelly discuss: 1. Importance of Team in Early-Stage Investing: Emphasis on evaluating the team behind a startup as a critical factor for investment decisions. 2. Market Research and Problem Identification: The necessity for entrepreneurs to thoroughly research their market and identify real, scalable problems. 3. Investment Processes and Principles: Key principles for early-stage investing, including the importance of team, technology, IP, and market potential. 4. Pitching and Fundraising Effectively: Tips for making successful pitches, including clarity, storytelling, knowing your numbers, building relationships, and understanding investor expectations. 5. Role of AI in Investment and Business: Discussion on the impact of AI and machine learning on businesses and the importance of having AI expertise in investment teams. 6. Venture Debt: An overview of venture debt, its benefits, and how it complements equity financing for later-stage startups. 7. Global and Sectoral Trends in Innovation: Insights into emerging markets and sectors, including AI, decentralization, and global innovation hubs. Guest Information: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blackdogceo/ - Website: https://blackdogventurepartners.com/ Host Information: - LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/zackellison/ - Website: ⁠ https://www.arivc.com/ Show Information: - Website: ⁠https://7in7show.com/ - Apple Podcasts: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/7-in-7-show-with-zack-ellison/id1681652927 ⁠ - Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0f2NGukm1OcZYCgVbiwlZX - YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@7in7show - Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/7in7show/ - TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@7in7show - Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/7in7show - Twitter: ⁠https://twitter.com/7in7show DISCLAIMER: https://7in7show.com/disclaimer/

Welcome to another episode of The 7 in 7 Show with Zack Ellison, which features full length interviews with the world’s leading investors in innovation. Episode #13A of Season 2 features Scott Kelly, CEO of Black Dog Venture Partners, Host of VC Fast Pitch, and Strategic Advisor to TCA Southeast. Scott Kelly is a 30-year fundraising, marketing, sales, training and publicity veteran. Scott has raised hundreds of millions of dollars in capital for disruptive companies, garnered national media coverage for hundreds of regional and national brands and generated hundreds of millions of dollars in revenues for the companies he has represented. He has also trained over 1,000 salespeople and has taught marketing at the university level in the United States and Europe. In this episode, Zack Ellison and Scott Kelly discuss: 1. Importance of Team in Early-Stage Investing: Emphasis on evaluating the team behind a startup as a critical factor for investment decisions. 2. Market Research and Problem Identification: The necessity for entrepreneurs to thoroughly research their market and identify real, scalable problems. 3. Investment Processes and Principles: Key principles for early-stage investing, including the importance of team, technology, IP, and market potential. 4. Pitching and Fundraising Effectively: Tips for making successful pitches, including clarity, storytelling, knowing your numbers, building relationships, and understanding investor expectations. 5. Role of AI in Investment and Business: Discussion on the impact of AI and machine learning on businesses and the importance of having AI expertise in investment teams. 6. Venture Debt: An overview of venture debt, its benefits, and how it complements equity financing for later-stage startups. 7. Global and Sectoral Trends in Innovation: Insights into emerging markets and sectors, including AI, decentralization, and global innovation hubs. Guest Information: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blackdogceo/ - Website: https://blackdogventurepartners.com/ Host Information: - LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/zackellison/ - Website: ⁠ https://www.arivc.com/ Show Information: - Website: ⁠https://7in7show.com/ - Apple Podcasts: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/7-in-7-show-with-zack-ellison/id1681652927 ⁠ - Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0f2NGukm1OcZYCgVbiwlZX - YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@7in7show - Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/7in7show/ - TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@7in7show - Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/7in7show - Twitter: ⁠https://twitter.com/7in7show DISCLAIMER: https://7in7show.com/disclaimer/

Welcome to another episode of The 7 in 7 Show with Zack Ellison, which features full length interviews with the world’s leading investors in innovation. Episode #12B of Season 2 features Dr. Jackson Streeter, Director of UF Innovate Ventures at the University of Florida, where he manages a venture fund for the Research Foundation. After assuming this role in late 2019, he recruited a luminary Investment Advisory Committee and began investing in 2020. In addition, he manages life science investments for the Florida Opportunity Fund and DeepWork Capital, where he is a limited partner. Dr. Streeter is the inventor of over twenty patents, the author on multiple scientific publications and has served on over a dozen boards and executive committees. Previously, he served as an Officer in the U.S. Navy, completing a general surgery internship at Naval Regional Medical Center Portsmouth, Virginia and then primary Flight School at Naval Air Station Pensacola, Florida. During his military service, he was the first Naval Flight Surgeon selected as a TOPGUN staff instructor. He served on several overseas deployments, including Operation Desert Storm. Dr. Streeter initiated the Basic Combat Medicine Course to train Naval Aircrew on the essential life-saving skills necessary to stabilize combat related injuries in the field. As the Senior Flight Surgeon at Naval Air Station Fallon, NV he was part of the helicopter aircrew with the Search and Rescue (SAR) team and pilot rescue program where he participated in over 40 real world SAR missions and was awarded the Navy Commendation Medal for that service, as well as, two Naval Achievement Medals and other awards. After eight years of active duty, Dr. Streeter left active Naval service at the rank of Lieutenant Commander. In this episode, Zack Ellison and Jackson Streeter discuss: 1. Florida’s Potential as an Innovation Hub: Exploring the state's growing talent pool, favorable business environment, and increasing investment, positioning it as an emerging leader in innovation. 2. Early Stage Funding for Startups: The importance of securing early-stage funding, particularly for underserved communities like veterans, and how it can significantly impact a startup's trajectory. 3. Strategies for Founders: Key strategies for startup success, including starting with a solid product-market fit, choosing the right investors, and prioritizing intellectual property protection. 4. Gainesville’s Startup Ecosystem: A look into Gainesville’s vibrant startup community, its internationally recognized incubator system, and how it attracts talent and companies from around the globe. 5. Valuation and Cap Table Management: The consequences of raising money at high valuations and the importance of managing the cap table to avoid pitfalls like down rounds and talent loss. 6. Venture Debt and Dilution: How venture debt can help startups save on dilution, and the strategic benefits of this financing option for growth-stage companies. 7. Innovation in Healthcare AI: Discussions on the potential of AI in healthcare, including predictive analytics, medical imaging, and smart ICU technology, and their implications for the industry. Guest Information: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackson-streeter-md-66a678/ - Website: https://innovate.research.ufl.edu/ Host Information: - LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/zackellison/ - Website: ⁠https://www.arivc.com/ Show Information: - Website: ⁠https://7in7show.com/ - Apple Podcasts: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/7-in-7-show-with-zack-ellison/id1681652927 - Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0f2NGukm1OcZYCgVbiwlZX - YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@7in7show - Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/7in7show/ - TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@7in7show - Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/7in7show - Twitter: ⁠https://twitter.com/7in7show DISCLAIMER: https://7in7show.com/disclaimer/

Welcome to another episode of The 7 in 7 Show with Zack Ellison, which features full length interviews with the world’s leading investors in innovation. Episode #12A of Season 2 features Dr. Jackson Streeter, Director of UF Innovate Ventures at the University of Florida, where he manages a venture fund for the Research Foundation. After assuming this role in late 2019, he recruited a luminary Investment Advisory Committee and began investing in 2020. In addition, he manages life science investments for the Florida Opportunity Fund and DeepWork Capital, where he is a limited partner. Dr. Streeter is the inventor of over twenty patents, the author on multiple scientific publications and has served on over a dozen boards and executive committees. Previously, he served as an Officer in the U.S. Navy, completing a general surgery internship at Naval Regional Medical Center Portsmouth, Virginia and then primary Flight School at Naval Air Station Pensacola, Florida. During his military service, he was the first Naval Flight Surgeon selected as a TOPGUN staff instructor. He served on several overseas deployments, including Operation Desert Storm. Dr. Streeter initiated the Basic Combat Medicine Course to train Naval Aircrew on the essential life-saving skills necessary to stabilize combat related injuries in the field. As the Senior Flight Surgeon at Naval Air Station Fallon, NV he was part of the helicopter aircrew with the Search and Rescue (SAR) team and pilot rescue program where he participated in over 40 real world SAR missions and was awarded the Navy Commendation Medal for that service, as well as, two Naval Achievement Medals and other awards. After eight years of active duty, Dr. Streeter left active Naval service at the rank of Lieutenant Commander. In this episode, Zack Ellison and Jackson Streeter discuss: 1. Florida’s Potential as an Innovation Hub: Exploring the state's growing talent pool, favorable business environment, and increasing investment, positioning it as an emerging leader in innovation. 2. Early Stage Funding for Startups: The importance of securing early-stage funding, particularly for underserved communities like veterans, and how it can significantly impact a startup's trajectory. 3. Strategies for Founders: Key strategies for startup success, including starting with a solid product-market fit, choosing the right investors, and prioritizing intellectual property protection. 4. Gainesville’s Startup Ecosystem: A look into Gainesville’s vibrant startup community, its internationally recognized incubator system, and how it attracts talent and companies from around the globe. 5. Valuation and Cap Table Management: The consequences of raising money at high valuations and the importance of managing the cap table to avoid pitfalls like down rounds and talent loss. 6. Venture Debt and Dilution: How venture debt can help startups save on dilution, and the strategic benefits of this financing option for growth-stage companies. 7. Innovation in Healthcare AI: Discussions on the potential of AI in healthcare, including predictive analytics, medical imaging, and smart ICU technology, and their implications for the industry. Guest Information: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackson-streeter-md-66a678/ - Website: https://innovate.research.ufl.edu/   Host Information: - LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/zackellison/ - Website: ⁠ https://www.arivc.com/   Show Information: - Website: ⁠https://7in7show.com/ - Apple Podcasts: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/7-in-7-show-with-zack-ellison/id1681652927 - Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0f2NGukm1OcZYCgVbiwlZX - YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@7in7show - Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/7in7show/ - TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@7in7show - Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/7in7show - Twitter: ⁠https://twitter.com/7in7show DISCLAIMER: https://7in7show.com/disclaimer/

Welcome to another episode of The 7 in 7 Show with Zack Ellison, which features full length interviews with the world’s leading investors in innovation. Episode #11B of Season 2 features Priscilla Guevara, General Partner at Science, where she has evolved the Los Angeles-based fund from a studio into a multi-asset investment firm. By leading partnerships and communications across the institutional investor network, corporate partners and portfolio, she has bridged the gap between investors and partners in innovation. Science’s startup studio has built household names including Dollar Shave Club, MeUndies, and Liquid Death. With Science as the lead investor, Priscilla was instrumental in Liquid Death’s success in fundraising. The brand's valuation as of March 2024 is $1.4 billion. Priscilla also leads structuring and capital formation efforts for new investment vehicles, while expanding Science’s investment platform that includes early-stage venture funds, rolling funds, co-invest follow-on as well as late-stage SPVs. She is the Founder of SWIPE – Senior Women in Private Equity Group – with 3,000+ global members including institutional investors and operators from Blackstone, KKR, and Temasek, among others. SWIPE also has chapters in Asia-Pacific, South and Central America, EMEA, Canada, and the UK. She’s also chair of the Development Committee of the James Beard Foundation and has served on the board of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (NYC Chapter). She has also been a speaker for conferences such as Visionary Voices by All Raise, which works to amplify female and non-binary voices at tech events and in the media, as well as SuperReturn International, Private Equity International, and LA Tech Week. In this episode, Zack Ellison and Priscilla Guevara discuss: 1. Priscilla Guevara's Journey: From Wall Street to a general partner at Science, showcasing the transition from finance to venture capital. 2. Science's Role as a Venture Studio: How they help early-stage companies scale, build, and exit successfully. 3. Investment Highlights: Discussion on major investments like Liquid Death, highlighting Science’s knack for picking unique consumer brands. 4. Cultural Shifts in Consumer Behavior: How Science leverages cultural insights to make strategic investments. 5. The Significance of Referrals in Sourcing Deals: Importance of network and reputation in the venture capital industry. 6. The Strategic Use of Consumer Authenticity and Virality: How these elements are crucial in brand building and product success. 7. Educational Backgrounds of Founders: Discussing the influence of academic backgrounds on venture success and the networking benefits it brings. Guest Information: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/priscillaguevara/ - Website: https://www.science-inc.com/home.html Host Information: - LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/zackellison/ - Website: ⁠ https://www.arivc.com/ Show Information: - Website: ⁠https://7in7show.com/ - Apple Podcasts: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/7-in-7-show-with-zack-ellison/id1681652927 ⁠ - Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0f2NGukm1OcZYCgVbiwlZX - YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@7in7show - Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/7in7show/ - TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@7in7show - Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/7in7show - Twitter: ⁠https://twitter.com/7in7show DISCLAIMER: https://7in7show.com/disclaimer/

Welcome to another episode of The 7 in 7 Show with Zack Ellison, which features full length interviews with the world’s leading investors in innovation. Episode #11A of Season 2 features Priscilla Guevara, General Partner at Science, where she has evolved the Los Angeles-based fund from a studio into a multi-asset investment firm. By leading partnerships and communications across the institutional investor network, corporate partners and portfolio, she has bridged the gap between investors and partners in innovation. Science’s startup studio has built household names including Dollar Shave Club, MeUndies, and Liquid Death. With Science as the lead investor, Priscilla was instrumental in Liquid Death’s success in fundraising. The brand's valuation as of March 2024 is $1.4 billion. Priscilla also leads structuring and capital formation efforts for new investment vehicles, while expanding Science’s investment platform that includes early-stage venture funds, rolling funds, co-invest follow-on as well as late-stage SPVs. She is the Founder of SWIPE – Senior Women in Private Equity Group – with 3,000+ global members including institutional investors and operators from Blackstone, KKR, and Temasek, among others. SWIPE also has chapters in Asia-Pacific, South and Central America, EMEA, Canada, and the UK. She’s also chair of the Development Committee of the James Beard Foundation and has served on the board of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (NYC Chapter). She has also been a speaker for conferences such as Visionary Voices by All Raise, which works to amplify female and non-binary voices at tech events and in the media, as well as SuperReturn International, Private Equity International, and LA Tech Week. In this episode, Zack Ellison and Priscilla Guevara discuss: 1. Priscilla Guevara's Journey: From Wall Street to a general partner at Science, showcasing the transition from finance to venture capital. 2. Science's Role as a Venture Studio: How they help early-stage companies scale, build, and exit successfully. 3. Investment Highlights: Discussion on major investments like Liquid Death, highlighting Science’s knack for picking unique consumer brands. 4. Cultural Shifts in Consumer Behavior: How Science leverages cultural insights to make strategic investments. 5. The Significance of Referrals in Sourcing Deals: Importance of network and reputation in the venture capital industry. 6. The Strategic Use of Consumer Authenticity and Virality: How these elements are crucial in brand building and product success. 7. Educational Backgrounds of Founders: Discussing the influence of academic backgrounds on venture success and the networking benefits it brings. Guest Information: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/priscillaguevara/ - Website: https://www.science-inc.com/home.html Host Information: - LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/zackellison/ - Website: ⁠ https://www.arivc.com/ Show Information: - Website: ⁠https://7in7show.com/ - Apple Podcasts: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/7-in-7-show-with-zack-ellison/id1681652927 ⁠ - Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0f2NGukm1OcZYCgVbiwlZX - YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@7in7show - Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/7in7show/ - TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@7in7show - Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/7in7show - Twitter: ⁠https://twitter.com/7in7show DISCLAIMER: https://7in7show.com/disclaimer/

Welcome to another episode of The 7 in 7 Show with Zack Ellison, which features full length interviews with the world’s leading investors in innovation. Episode 10B of Season 2 features Liz Ward, VP of ZEBOX America, an international supply chain accelerator focused on connecting large corporations to innovative startups to solve the most pervasive problems impacting global supply chains. Prior, Liz held several leadership positions at tech enabled freight brokerages such as Transfix and Convoy. Before venture, she was an executive and minority owner at Ward Transport & Logistics, a Top 25 LTL carrier in the U.S. and was a founding member of Price-Tran LLC, an asset-based trucking company revolutionizing the way freight is priced. Liz launched her career at Booz Allen – where she consulted with domestic and foreign intelligence and law enforcement agencies to disrupt and dismantle illicit supply chains, most notably the global heroin trade. She graduated with honors from Lehigh University with a B.S. in Supply Chain Management and is an active advisor and investor to startups. In this episode, Zack Ellison and Liz Ward discuss: 1. How the ZEBOX Model Solves Vexing Supply Chain Challenges 2. Supply Chain Innovation Through Corporate Venture Capital 3. Choosing the Right Investment Partners: A Key to Success 4. The Future of Work in Supply Chain Management 5. Venture Debt: A Minimally Dilutive Financing Tool for Startups 6. AI’s Transformative Impact on Global Supply Chains 7. Driving Sustainability and Decarbonization in Supply Chains Guest Information: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eaward/ - Website: https://mercuryfund.com/ Host Information: - LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/zackellison/ - Website: ⁠ https://www.ze-box.io/hubs/america Show Information: - Website: ⁠https://7in7show.com/ - Apple Podcasts: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/7-in-7-show-with-zack-ellison/id1681652927 ⁠ - Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0f2NGukm1OcZYCgVbiwlZX - YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@7in7show - Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/7in7show/ - TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@7in7show - Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/7in7show - Twitter: ⁠https://twitter.com/7in7show DISCLAIMER: https://7in7show.com/disclaimer/

Welcome to another episode of The 7 in 7 Show with Zack Ellison, which features full length interviews with the world’s leading investors in innovation. Episode 10 of Season 2 features Liz Ward, VP of ZEBOX America, an international supply chain accelerator focused on connecting large corporations to innovative startups to solve the most pervasive problems impacting global supply chains. Prior, Liz held several leadership positions at tech enabled freight brokerages such as Transfix and Convoy. Before venture, she was an executive and minority owner at Ward Transport & Logistics, a Top 25 LTL carrier in the U.S. and was a founding member of Price-Tran LLC, an asset-based trucking company revolutionizing the way freight is priced. Liz launched her career at Booz Allen – where she consulted with domestic and foreign intelligence and law enforcement agencies to disrupt and dismantle illicit supply chains, most notably the global heroin trade. She graduated with honors from Lehigh University with a B.S. in Supply Chain Management and is an active advisor and investor to startups. In this episode, Zack Ellison and Liz Ward discuss: 1. How the ZEBOX Model Solves Vexing Supply Chain Challenges 2. Supply Chain Innovation Through Corporate Venture Capital 3. Choosing the Right Investment Partners: A Key to Success 4. The Future of Work in Supply Chain Management 5. Venture Debt: A Minimally Dilutive Financing Tool for Startups 6. AI’s Transformative Impact on Global Supply Chains 7. Driving Sustainability and Decarbonization in Supply Chains Guest Information: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eaward/ - Website: https://mercuryfund.com/ Host Information: - LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/zackellison/ - Website: ⁠ https://www.ze-box.io/hubs/america Show Information: - Website: ⁠https://7in7show.com/ - Apple Podcasts: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/7-in-7-show-with-zack-ellison/id1681652927 ⁠ - Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0f2NGukm1OcZYCgVbiwlZX - YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@7in7show - Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/7in7show/ - TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@7in7show - Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/7in7show - Twitter: ⁠https://twitter.com/7in7show DISCLAIMER: https://7in7show.com/disclaimer/

Welcome to another episode of The 7 in 7 Show with Zack Ellison, which features full length interviews with the world’s leading investors in innovation. Episode 9B of Season 2 features Samantha Lewis, a Partner at Mercury Fund. Her specific focus is on Mercury’s Power theme, where she seeks to fund startups utilizing blockchain, data platforms and fintech to rethink the way people access capital and opportunity, build wealth, spend money and organize as communities. Samantha currently serves on the boards of Mercury portfolio companies Apparatus (infrastructure), Arden (infrastructure), Civitech (data platform), Brassica (fintech infrastructure) and Cooklist (data intelligence). Samantha is an active Kauffman Fellow, the world’s premier venture capital fellowship. Prior to joining Mercury, Samantha was the Investment Director at Goose Capital, a Houston-based investment group of serial entrepreneurs and F500 CEOs, where she led deal sourcing, structuring and portfolio management. During her time at Goose, she led investments in Syzygy Plasmonics, Rufus Labs, and Emerge. Samantha is a repeat entrepreneur with a background spanning agribusiness, logistics and supply chain, beauty, and deep tech. Samantha received her MBA from Rice University and a B.A. in Political Science and History from Texas A&M University. Samantha remains deeply committed and involved in the efforts to build diverse, robust innovation ecosystems. Outside of Mercury, Samantha actively mentors founders, teaches a Venture Capital class at Rice University, and supports Ukraine through fundraising and medical supply deliveries. In this episode, Zack Ellison and Samantha Lewis discuss: 1. Venture capital's evolution: From pitch to sustainability. 2. Diversity in venture capital: Identifying untapped markets and founders. 3. Venture debt: Bridging startups to success. 4. AI's role in startups: Beyond hype to utility. 5. The importance of geography in finding venture opportunities. 6. How venture lenders catalyze startup growth and validation. 7. Enhancing investor returns with DPI (Distributions to Paid-In capital) Guest Information: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samanthajolewis/ - Website: https://mercuryfund.com/ Host Information: - LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/zackellison/ - Website: ⁠https://www.arivc.com/ Show Information: - Website: ⁠https://7in7show.com/ - Apple Podcasts: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/7-in-7-show-with-zack-ellison/id1681652927 ⁠ - Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0f2NGukm1OcZYCgVbiwlZX - YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@7in7show - Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/7in7show/ - TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@7in7show - Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/7in7show - Twitter: ⁠https://twitter.com/7in7show DISCLAIMER: https://7in7show.com/disclaimer/

Welcome to another episode of The 7 in 7 Show with Zack Ellison, which features full length interviews with the world’s leading investors in innovation. Episode 9 of Season 2 features Samantha Lewis, a Partner at Mercury Fund. Her specific focus is on Mercury’s Power theme, where she seeks to fund startups utilizing blockchain, data platforms and fintech to rethink the way people access capital and opportunity, build wealth, spend money and organize as communities. Samantha currently serves on the boards of Mercury portfolio companies Apparatus (infrastructure), Arden (infrastructure), Civitech (data platform), Brassica (fintech infrastructure) and Cooklist (data intelligence). Samantha is an active Kauffman Fellow, the world’s premier venture capital fellowship. Prior to joining Mercury, Samantha was the Investment Director at Goose Capital, a Houston-based investment group of serial entrepreneurs and F500 CEOs, where she led deal sourcing, structuring and portfolio management. During her time at Goose, she led investments in Syzygy Plasmonics, Rufus Labs, and Emerge. Samantha is a repeat entrepreneur with a background spanning agribusiness, logistics and supply chain, beauty, and deep tech. Samantha received her MBA from Rice University and a B.A. in Political Science and History from Texas A&M University. Samantha remains deeply committed and involved in the efforts to build diverse, robust innovation ecosystems. Outside of Mercury, Samantha actively mentors founders, teaches a Venture Capital class at Rice University, and supports Ukraine through fundraising and medical supply deliveries. In this episode, Zack Ellison and Samantha Lewis discuss: 1. Venture capital's evolution: From pitch to sustainability. 2. Diversity in venture capital: Identifying untapped markets and founders. 3. Venture debt: Bridging startups to success. 4. AI's role in startups: Beyond hype to utility. 5. The importance of geography in finding venture opportunities. 6. How venture lenders catalyze startup growth and validation. 7. Enhancing investor returns with DPI (Distributions to Paid-In capital) Guest Information: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samanthajolewis/ - Website: https://mercuryfund.com/ Host Information: - LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/zackellison/ - Website: ⁠https://www.arivc.com/ Show Information: - Website: ⁠https://7in7show.com/ - Apple Podcasts: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/7-in-7-show-with-zack-ellison/id1681652927 ⁠ - Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0f2NGukm1OcZYCgVbiwlZX - YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@7in7show - Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/7in7show/ - TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@7in7show - Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/7in7show - Twitter: ⁠https://twitter.com/7in7show DISCLAIMER: https://7in7show.com/disclaimer/

Welcome to another episode of The 7 in 7 Show with Zack Ellison, which features full length interviews with the world’s leading investors in innovation. Episode 8 of Season 2 features Dan Espinal, the Co-Founder and CEO of Rarebreed Veterinary Partners, a thriving community of veterinary hospitals whose goal is to deliver exceptional patient care, outstanding client service, and an amazing employee experience. Rarebreed Veterinary Partners was founded in 2018 to reimagine the veterinary experience. With over 120 locations across the Northeast, Florida, and Virginia, Rarebreed is committed to universal training to sustain wellness, inclusion, and belonging in the workplace. Before co-founding Rarebreed, Dan headed IDEXX Laboratories’ in-house chemistry business and Corporate Development and Strategy team. There, he led and executed global acquisitions, managed the annual strategic planning process and structured complex partnerships to serve as the technology for new companion animal diagnostic pillars. During his career, Dan also worked as a venture capital investor at Allied Minds plc, focusing on internet and communication technologies. And he was a management strategy consultant at JSA Partners (formerly AT Kearney), a mergers and acquisitions and strategy consultancy in Boston. Dan is a combat veteran and Airborne Ranger-qualified infantry officer with service time as a combat advisor embedded with the Afghan National Civil Order Police. He holds a Master of Business Administration from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Sloan School of Business) and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and International Relations from Tufts University. An active triathlete, he resides in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, with his wife, three children, and his dog, Boomer. In this episode, Zack Ellison and Dan Espinal discuss: 1. Why startup founders make better VCs. 2. Learning from entrepreneurial mistakes. 3. Decision-making under pressure. 4. The influence of sports and military service on leadership. 5. How venture debt helps startups through increased accountability. 6. Developing a resilient mindset to succeed as a founder. 7. AI's Impact on the Future of Work. LEARN MORE: - Zack Ellison: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zackellison/ - The 7 in 7 Show: ⁠https://7in7show.com/ - A.R.I. Venture Debt: ⁠https://www.arivc.com/ DISCLAIMER: - https://7in7show.com/disclaimer/

Welcome to another episode of The 7 in 7 Show with Zack Ellison, which features full length interviews with the world’s leading investors in innovation. Episode 8 of Season 2 features Dan Espinal, the Co-Founder and CEO of Rarebreed Veterinary Partners, a thriving community of veterinary hospitals whose goal is to deliver exceptional patient care, outstanding client service, and an amazing employee experience. Rarebreed Veterinary Partners was founded in 2018 to reimagine the veterinary experience. With over 120 locations across the Northeast, Florida, and Virginia, Rarebreed is committed to universal training to sustain wellness, inclusion, and belonging in the workplace. Before co-founding Rarebreed, Dan headed IDEXX Laboratories’ in-house chemistry business and Corporate Development and Strategy team. There, he led and executed global acquisitions, managed the annual strategic planning process and structured complex partnerships to serve as the technology for new companion animal diagnostic pillars. During his career, Dan also worked as a venture capital investor at Allied Minds plc, focusing on internet and communication technologies. And he was a management strategy consultant at JSA Partners (formerly AT Kearney), a mergers and acquisitions and strategy consultancy in Boston. Dan is a combat veteran and Airborne Ranger-qualified infantry officer with service time as a combat advisor embedded with the Afghan National Civil Order Police. He holds a Master of Business Administration from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Sloan School of Business) and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and International Relations from Tufts University. An active triathlete, he resides in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, with his wife, three children, and his dog, Boomer. In this episode, Zack Ellison and Dan Espinal discuss: 1. Why startup founders make better VCs. 2. Learning from entrepreneurial mistakes. 3. Decision-making under pressure. 4. The influence of sports and military service on leadership. 5. How venture debt helps startups through increased accountability. 6. Developing a resilient mindset to succeed as a founder. 7. AI's Impact on the Future of Work. LEARN MORE: - Zack Ellison: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zackellison/ - The 7 in 7 Show: ⁠https://7in7show.com/ - A.R.I. Venture Debt: ⁠https://www.arivc.com/ DISCLAIMER: - https://7in7show.com/disclaimer/

Welcome to another episode of The 7 in 7 Show with Zack Ellison, which features full length interviews with the world’s leading investors in innovation. The show this week features the second half of a great interview with Dan Zwirn, a legendary hedge fund manager and one of the best credit investors in the world. Part one (Season 2, Episode 7A) can be found here: https://youtu.be/bV2rACVtvK8 Dan co-founded Arena Investors in 2015 to bring creative solutions to those seeking capital in special situations. With a mandate unconstrained by industry, product or geography, Arena currently manages approximately $3.5 billion as a global investment firm focusing on special situations asset and credit investments in corporates, real estate, structured finance, and corporate securities. And Dan and his team have become well known for their ability to develop pragmatic, very precisely-structured investment opportunities in complex situations where others can’t or won’t. Before founding Arena, between 2009 and 2015, Dan founded and/or led several specialty finance enterprises including Applied Data Finance (a consumer finance company), North Mill Capital (an asset-based lender), North Mill Equipment (an equipment lessor), and Lantern Endowment Partners (an investment fund). In 2001, while a managing director and founder of the Special Opportunities Group at Highbridge Capital Management, Dan, along with Highbridge, co-founded D.B. Zwirn & Co., a global special situations firm. Dan served as managing partner of D.B. Zwirn & Co., which grew into a $6 billion enterprise. He had previously founded the Special Opportunities Group of MSD Capital, the private investment firm of Michael Dell. Dan is a senior trustee of the Brookings Institution, a member of the Executive Board of the University of Pennsylvania Jerome Fisher Program in Management & Technology, and a member of the Board of Overseers for the School of Social Policy & Practice at the University of Pennsylvania. He previously served on the Leadership Council of the Robin Hood Foundation, the Board of Trustees of Barnard College of Columbia University, and the Board of Trustees of the New York Public Theater. Dan holds a BS in economics from the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School of Business, a bachelor of applied science (BAS) in computer science from the University of Pennsylvania Moore School of Electrical Engineering, and an MBA from Harvard Business School. In this episode, Zack Ellison and Dan Zwirn discuss: 1. The evolving venture debt market and its potential for investors. 2. The importance of being selective and disciplined in venture lending. 3. How market cycles affect venture debt opportunities. 4. Growth credit as a blend of venture lending, distressed debt, and direct lending. 5. The changing dynamics of venture capital and its impact on venture lending. 6. Strategies for de-risking venture debt transactions with a focus on cash flow. 7. Recommendations for investors to consider over the next phase of the economic cycle. Guest Information: - Bio: https://www.arenaco.com/team/daniel-zwirn/ - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-zwirn/ - Website: https://www.arenaco.com/ Host Information: - LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/zackellison/ - Website: ⁠https://www.arivc.com/ Show Information: - Website: ⁠https://7in7show.com/ - Apple Podcasts: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/7-in-7-show-with-zack-ellison/id1681652927 ⁠ - Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0f2NGukm1OcZYCgVbiwlZX - YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@7in7show DISCLAIMER: https://7in7show.com/disclaimer/

Download “The 10 Best Things To Know About Venture Debt” from https://7in7show.com/ Welcome to another episode of The 7 in 7 Show with Zack Ellison, which features full length interviews with the world’s leading investors in innovation. The show this week features the first half of my interview with Dan Zwirn, a legendary hedge fund manager and one of the best credit investors in the world. Dan co-founded Arena Investors in 2015 to bring creative solutions to those seeking capital in special situations. With a mandate unconstrained by industry, product or geography, Arena currently manages approximately $3.5 billion as a global investment firm focusing on special situations asset and credit investments in corporates, real estate, structured finance, and corporate securities. And Dan and his team have become well known for their ability to develop pragmatic, very precisely-structured investment opportunities in complex situations where others can’t or won’t. Before founding Arena, between 2009 and 2015, Dan founded and/or led several specialty finance enterprises including Applied Data Finance (a consumer finance company), North Mill Capital (an asset-based lender), North Mill Equipment (an equipment lessor), and Lantern Endowment Partners (an investment fund). In 2001, while a managing director and founder of the Special Opportunities Group at Highbridge Capital Management, Dan, along with Highbridge, co-founded D.B. Zwirn & Co., a global special situations firm. Dan served as managing partner of D.B. Zwirn & Co., which grew into a $6 billion enterprise. He had previously founded the Special Opportunities Group of MSD Capital, the private investment firm of Michael Dell. Dan is a senior trustee of the Brookings Institution, a member of the Executive Board of the University of Pennsylvania Jerome Fisher Program in Management & Technology, and a member of the Board of Overseers for the School of Social Policy & Practice at the University of Pennsylvania. He previously served on the Leadership Council of the Robin Hood Foundation, the Board of Trustees of Barnard College of Columbia University, and the Board of Trustees of the New York Public Theater. Dan holds a BS in economics from the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School of Business, a bachelor of applied science (BAS) in computer science from the University of Pennsylvania Moore School of Electrical Engineering, and an MBA from Harvard Business School. In this episode, Zack Ellison and Dan Zwirn discuss: 1. The evolving venture debt market and its potential for investors. 2. The importance of being selective and disciplined in venture lending. 3. How market cycles affect venture debt opportunities. 4. Growth credit as a blend of venture lending, distressed debt, and direct lending. 5. The changing dynamics of venture capital and its impact on venture lending. 6. Strategies for de-risking venture debt transactions with a focus on cash flow. 7. Recommendations for investors to consider over the next phase of the economic cycle. Guest Information: - Bio: https://www.arenaco.com/team/daniel-zwirn/ - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-zwirn/ - Website: https://www.arenaco.com/ Host Information: - LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/zackellison/ - Website: ⁠https://www.arivc.com/ Show Information: - Website: ⁠https://7in7show.com/ - Apple Podcasts: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/7-in-7-show-with-zack-ellison/id1681652927 ⁠ - Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0f2NGukm1OcZYCgVbiwlZX - YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@7in7show - Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/7in7show/ - TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@7in7show - Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/7in7show - Twitter: ⁠https://twitter.com/7in7show DISCLAIMER: https://7in7show.com/disclaimer/

Welcome to another episode of The 7 in 7 Show with Zack Ellison, which features full length interviews with the world’s leading investors in innovation. The show this week features part B of the interview with Dr. Eddie Sanchez, who has over 25 years of experience as a hedge fund portfolio manager and securities analyst. He managed long/short Technology and Telecommunications portfolios at Citigroup Investments, First New York Securities, The Galleon Group, Credit Suisse, and the Blackthorn Group. Dr. Sanchez is currently a Clinical Assistant Professor at Warrington College of Business at the University of Florida. Previously, he was an Assistant Professor of Instruction and the Director of the Bloomberg Lab at the University of South Florida, Mumma College of Business. Dr. Sanchez’s research interests are in Municipal Bonds, Hedge Funds, Mutual Funds, Capital Markets, and Financial Institutions. He has taught Executive and On-line MBA courses in financial statement analysis and corporate financial planning, as well as undergraduate courses in principles of investments, advanced investment analysis and management, and financial markets and institutions. He received a Doctorate in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from the University of Florida. In this episode, Zack Ellison and Dr. Eddie Sanchez discuss: 1. Evaluating Tech Innovations 2. Tech Company Valuations 3. AI's Financial Impact 4. Tech Stock Analysis 5. Venture Debt Insights 6. Equity vs. Debt Financing 7. Future Cash Flow Importance LEARN MORE: - Zack Ellison: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zackellison/ - The 7 in 7 Show: ⁠https://7in7show.com/ - A.R.I. Venture Debt: ⁠https://www.arivc.com/ DISCLAIMER: https://7in7show.com/disclaimer/

Welcome to another episode of The 7 in 7 Show with Zack Ellison, which features full length interviews with the world’s leading investors in innovation. The show this week features Dr. Eddie Sanchez, who has over 25 years of experience as a hedge fund portfolio manager and securities analyst. He managed long/short Technology and Telecommunications portfolios at Citigroup Investments, First New York Securities, The Galleon Group, Credit Suisse, and the Blackthorn Group. Dr. Sanchez is currently a Clinical Assistant Professor at Warrington College of Business at the University of Florida. Previously, he was an Assistant Professor of Instruction and the Director of the Bloomberg Lab at the University of South Florida, Mumma College of Business. Dr. Sanchez’s research interests are in Municipal Bonds, Hedge Funds, Mutual Funds, Capital Markets, and Financial Institutions. He has taught Executive and On-line MBA courses in financial statement analysis and corporate financial planning, as well as undergraduate courses in principles of investments, advanced investment analysis and management, and financial markets and institutions. He received a Doctorate in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from the University of Florida. In this episode, Zack Ellison and Dr. Eddie Sanchez discuss: 1. Evaluating Tech Innovations 2. Tech Company Valuations 3. AI's Financial Impact 4. Tech Stock Analysis 5. Venture Debt Insights 6. Equity vs. Debt Financing 7. Future Cash Flow Importance LEARN MORE: - Zack Ellison: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/zackellison/ - The 7 in 7 Show: ⁠https://7in7show.com/ - A.R.I. Venture Debt: ⁠https://www.arivc.com/ - DISCLAIMER: https://7in7show.com/disclaimer/

Welcome to another episode of The 7 in 7 Show with Zack Ellison, which features full length interviews with the world’s leading investors in innovation. The show this week features part two of the conversation with Sherman Williams, the co-founder and Managing Partner of AIN Ventures. Sherman has an extensive history investing in dual-use technology subsegments, such as space technology and healthcare technology. Sherman has been the VC-in-Residence to several Techstars programs and is also a Kauffman Fellow ('26). Prior to becoming an early stage investor, Sherman gathered six years of financial transaction experience as a Healthcare Technology M&A Investment Banker. Sherman started his career as a Naval Intelligence Officer and holds an MBA from the University of Chicago and a Bachelor of Science degree from the United States Naval Academy. In this episode, we discuss: 1. Big Investment Opportunities in Dual-Use Technologies 2. Reasons that Military Veterans Make Great Founders 3. In-the-Box Experience for Out-of-the-Box Thinking 4. Venture Debt as a Founder-Friendly Complement to Equity Financing 5. The Importance of Founder Leadership, Resourcefulness, and Grit 6. Why Adaptability is Imperative for Success 7. The Significance of Technical Expertise in Founding Teams LEARN MORE: - Zack Ellison: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/zackellison/ - The 7 in 7 Show: ⁠https://7in7show.com/ - A.R.I. Venture Debt: ⁠https://www.arivc.com/ - DISCLAIMER: https://7in7show.com/disclaimer/

Welcome to another episode of The 7 in 7 Show with Zack Ellison, which features full length interviews with the world’s leading investors in innovation. The show this week features Sherman Williams, the co-founder and Managing Partner of AIN Ventures. Sherman has an extensive history investing in dual-use technology subsegments, such as space technology and healthcare technology. Sherman has been the VC-in-Residence to several Techstars programs and is also a Kauffman Fellow ('26). Prior to becoming an early stage investor, Sherman gathered six years of financial transaction experience as a Healthcare Technology M&A Investment Banker. Sherman started his career as a Naval Intelligence Officer and holds an MBA from the University of Chicago and a Bachelor of Science degree from the United States Naval Academy. In this episode, Zack Ellison and Sherman Williams discuss: 1. Big Investment Opportunities in Dual-Use Technologies 2. Reasons that Military Veterans Make Great Founders 3. In-the-Box Experience for Out-of-the-Box Thinking 4. Venture Debt as a Founder-Friendly Complement to Equity Financing 5. The Importance of Founder Leadership, Resourcefulness, and Grit 6. Why Adaptability is Imperative for Success 7. The Significance of Technical Expertise in Founding Teams LEARN MORE: - Zack Ellison: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/zackellison/ - The 7 in 7 Show: ⁠https://7in7show.com/ - A.R.I. Venture Debt: ⁠https://www.arivc.com/ - DISCLAIMER: https://7in7show.com/disclaimer/