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About Sierra Clouse

Sierra Clouse is the founder of Barclo, a future-tech venture studio based in the Pacific Northwest. She works at the intersection of quantum, AI, and systems innovation — backing founders building what’s next in deep tech and infrastructure.

Her career spans everything from anti-trafficking advocacy to TEDx production, and now to venture capital and ecosystem building. Known for her strategic thinking, creative vision, and dedication to tech that solves real-world problems, Sierra brings a rare mix of sharp analytical skills and big-picture curiosity.

🔗 LinkedIn: Sierra Clouse
🔗 Company Website: barclo.ventures

Topics We Cover in This Episode

• Sierra’s passion for cooking, reading, and personal creative outlets

• TEDx Belltown Women: organizing, speaking, and lessons learned

• Journey into blockchain and quantum computing

• Grants, fundraising, and the unique challenges of deep tech

• Balancing significance and humility in business

• The future of AI, quantum, and ethical considerations

• Building a venture studio and supporting founders

• Comparing VC cultures: Bay Area vs. Seattle

• Big Tech’s impact on innovation and succession

• Parenting while leading in the startup ecosystem

• The “Dead Internet Theory” and multiverse thinking

• Navigating procurement and cybersecurity for deep tech ventures

• Complexity theory, the energy demands of AI, and space exploration

• Challenges for female founders and global innovation trends

• Personal productivity, setting boundaries, and avoiding people-pleasing

Sierra’s Advice

“Fear is always an option, but it is never the answer. Uncertainty is scary… but don’t spiral. Get back into curiosity, wonder, and research. Find your people, take local action, and create your own bright spots — no matter how big the challenges seem.”

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