Funded | How They Raised Millions

Funded | How They Raised Millions

Jason Yeh

The tech media loves a splashy funding announcement - millions of dollars injected into a hot startup primed to become a unicorn. But what about the work behind those headlines? Host Jason Yeh, a former VC and venture-backed startup founder, talks with entrepreneurs about how they raised the capital to launch world-changing startups. Their conversations uncover incredible stories including cautionary tales, inspirational memories, and even some insightful tips. Keep up with us on social @fundedpod to learn more.

TBC115: Are You on the Right Fundraising Path?

TBC115: Are You on the Right Fundraising Path?

Most founders assume venture capital is the only way to fund their startup, but is it really the right path for you? In this episode of The Backchannel, we challenge the default fundraising mindset, breaking down why so many founders skip critical early steps. We'll shares insights on evaluating your real needs, exploring alternative funding options, and learning from those who’ve been in your shoes. Before you start pitching, make sure you’re not heading in the wrong direction.

Feb 20, • 6:26

TBC114: Holding Myself Accountable: 2025 Goals Check-In

TBC114: Holding Myself Accountable: 2025 Goals Check-In

In this episode of The Backchannel, I’m sharing some thoughts on goals for the year—what I’m focusing on, what’s working so far, and what still needs improvement. From business to personal challenges, I’m experimenting with new approaches and seeing where they lead. If you’ve set goals for yourself, I’d love to hear them. Let’s keep each other accountable!

Feb 13, • 6:39

TBC113: Convincing Investors During Slow Growth Phases

TBC113: Convincing Investors During Slow Growth Phases

How do you convince investors to back you when your company’s growth has been stagnant? In this episode, we explore a question from a founder about breaking through that barrier. We’ll dive into what investors are really looking for, the importance of showing a shift or inflection point in your business, and how to craft a compelling story about the future. Plus, some thoughts on when it’s time to step back and rethink your approach before seeking investment.

Feb 6, • 5:35

TBC112: Fundraising Advantages... Are They Real?

TBC112: Fundraising Advantages... Are They Real?

In this episode of The Backchannel, Jason reflects on his own fundraising experience and breaks down the layers of what it really takes to secure investor commitments. Using his 2017 fundraise as a backdrop, he shares insights on the role of connections, the limits of those advantages, and why getting your foot in the door is just the beginning. Whether you're a founder navigating the challenges of raising capital or just curious about the process, this episode offers a candid look at the dynami

Jan 30, • 5:23

How Andrés Ornelas Vargas Closed a $2.2M Round for Verve Market (Andrés Ornelas Vargas / Verve Market - Ep 54)

How Andrés Ornelas Vargas Closed a $2.2M Round for Verve Market (Andrés Ornelas Vargas / Verve Market - Ep 54)

In this episode, we sit down with Andrés Ornelas Vargas, founder of Verve, to discuss his journey from 150 investor conversations to closing a $2.2M round. Andrés dives into the challenges of breaking through preconceptions, the lessons learned from crafting the perfect pitch, and the personal story behind Verve's mission to revolutionize dietary management. He also shares how his analytical mindset both helped and hindered him during the fundraising process, and why persistence and adaptability

Jan 28, • 53:23

TBC111: The NEW Bar for Raising Pre-Seed Rounds

TBC111: The NEW Bar for Raising Pre-Seed Rounds

This episode of The Backchannel breaks down how the expectations for early-stage founders have shifted in the AI era. Inspired by a conversation with Jeff Bussgang—Harvard Business School professor and author of The Experimentation Machine—we explore what venture capitalists are looking for before investing. From validating your idea to leveraging AI and affordable global talent, the bar for getting to product-market fit is higher than ever. If you're building a startup or gearing up to raise fu

Jan 23, • 5:55

TBC110: Happy New Year Supercharging Tip!

TBC110: Happy New Year Supercharging Tip!

In this New Year’s episode of The Back Channel, we talk about the power of simple outreach and why reconnecting with your network can be the best business development move for the year ahead. Drawing from personal stories and founder advice, we explore the impact of small, thoughtful gestures—like a quick “Happy New Year” note—and how they open doors for future opportunities, from fundraising to partnerships. Whether you're looking to raise capital or strengthen connections, this episode covers

Jan 16, • 6:15

TBC109: Should You REALLY Be Raising From VCs?

TBC109: Should You REALLY Be Raising From VCs?

In this episode of The Backchannel, we ask a critical question for founders: Should you actually be raising venture capital? We break down why most founders chasing VC money are doing it for the wrong reasons—whether it's validation, peer pressure, or simply not knowing other options. We also explore two common categories of founders who mistakenly pursue VC dollars and share practical ways to rethink your funding strategy. If you’ve ever considered raising venture capital, this episode will cha

Jan 9, • 6:56

TBC108: The Power of Closing Dates in Fundraising

TBC108: The Power of Closing Dates in Fundraising

In this episode of The Backchannel, we break down the concept of closing dates in fundraising and why they’re a powerful psychological tool rather than a legal requirement. Learn how closing dates create urgency, push investors to commit, and help fundraisers organize their rounds effectively. Whether you're a startup founder or a fund manager, this episode will help you understand how to set and communicate closing dates to drive decisions and close your round with confidence.

Jan 2, • 8:37

TBC107: High Valuations vs. Simple Structure

TBC107: High Valuations vs. Simple Structure

In this episode of The Backchannel, we dive into the trade-offs between maximizing valuation and keeping deal terms simple. Whether you're a founder chasing a higher valuation or an investor protecting optics, adding deal structure can have long-term implications. Learn why simplicity often wins in the end and how complex terms like liquidation preferences, warrants, and dilution protections can create friction for future rounds. Tune in to hear why aiming for a clean deal benefits everyone in t

Dec 26, 2024 • 5:55

How John Patrick Mullin Closed a $11M Round for MANTRA (John Patrick Mullin / MANTRA - Ep 53)

How John Patrick Mullin Closed a $11M Round for MANTRA (John Patrick Mullin / MANTRA - Ep 53)

In this episode of Funded, we sit down with John Patrick Mullin, founder of MANTRA, to explore the realities of raising capital in the volatile world of crypto. JP shares his journey through early career pivots, the highs and lows of building a blockchain startup, and the challenges of launching tokens while navigating market skepticism. He opens up about raising $11M during one of crypto's toughest winters, managing investor relationships, and aligning token and equity strategies. Whether you'r

Dec 24, 2024 • 1:00:04

TBC106: Mastering Final VC Meetings

TBC106: Mastering Final VC Meetings

In this episode of The Backchannel, we explore how to prepare for final VC meetings, what investors are really looking for, and how to handle the pressure of tough questions. Whether you're a first-time founder or a seasoned entrepreneur, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you close the deal with confidence.

Dec 19, 2024 • 7:32

TBC105: How to Build Momentum During a Fundraise

TBC105: How to Build Momentum During a Fundraise

In this episode of The Backchannel, we explore strategies to help a founder turn investor interest into momentum during a challenging fundraise. From avoiding reliance on a single viral moment to showcasing consistent progress, we discuss practical ways to create the perception of unstoppable growth. Whether you’re pitching now or planning your next round, this episode offers sharp, actionable insights for closing strong.

Dec 12, 2024 • 8:06

TBC104: Why Raise From Angels PART TWO

TBC104: Why Raise From Angels PART TWO

In this episode of The Backchannel, we talk about the realities of raising capital and why many founders may not be ready for venture funding. Instead, we explore the often-overlooked world of angel investing—who angel investors are, how to find them, and how to tailor your pitch to different types of angels. Whether you’re building a billion-dollar startup or a sustainable small business, this episode offers a practical playbook on how to secure early-stage funding.

Dec 5, 2024 • 7:24

TBC103: Why Founders Should Consider Raising From Angels

TBC103: Why Founders Should Consider Raising From Angels

In this episode of The Backchannel, Jason unpacks why many founders struggle to raise capital in today’s cautious VC environment and offers alternative strategies to keep momentum. Learn how to tap into angel investors, leverage AI, and access global talent to build traction on a lean budget. Tune in to hear how you can turn obstacles into opportunities—and don’t miss the next episode, where Jason breaks down the art of pitching to angel investors.

Nov 28, 2024 • 7:01

How Ron Belldegrun Closed a $95M Series C for ByHeart (Ron Belldegrun / ByHeart - Ep 52)

How Ron Belldegrun Closed a $95M Series C for ByHeart (Ron Belldegrun / ByHeart - Ep 52)

In this episode, Ron Belldegrun, co-founder of ByHeart, shares how he raised over $300 million to transform the infant formula industry with cutting-edge science and a vertically integrated supply chain. Ron dives into his experience navigating the fundraising landscape, balancing the expectations of consumer and life science investors, and winning support for a mission-driven product in a highly regulated space. He talks candidly about the challenges of pitching a long-term vision, securing buy

Nov 26, 2024 • 1:02:10

TBC102: A Tale of Two Investors

TBC102: A Tale of Two Investors

In this episode of The Backchannel, we dive into a personal story that brings three critical fundraising lessons to life. Learn why early-stage fundraising is truly a numbers game, how your conviction in your vision can withstand rejection, and why giving value before seeking it can build powerful, reciprocal relationships. We’ll also explore how investor psychology plays a role in deal-making and how to use it to your advantage.

Nov 21, 2024 • 10:56

TBC101: The Importance of Jumping on Planes

TBC101: The Importance of Jumping on Planes

In this episode of The Backchannel, we explore why making in-person connections can be a game-changer for founders. Recorded on location in Austin, Texas, Jason shares insights sparked by his own travel experiences, focusing on why meeting face-to-face can have a major impact on relationship-building, especially when it comes to securing investments.

Nov 14, 2024 • 8:15

TBC100: Likability vs. Brilliance

TBC100: Likability vs. Brilliance

In this episode of The Backchannel, we're dropping a quick but essential take on balancing brilliance and likability and how both play into the fundraising game. We revisit a core concept from a past episode: time given – time to interest. If your brilliance gets investors hooked fast, you don’t need as much relationship-building. But if it takes longer to spark that interest, likability becomes your best tool for buying more time. We also talk about how being difficult, even if you’re brilliant

Oct 31, 2024 • 6:36

How Curtis Northcutt Closed a $25M Series A for Cleanlab (Curtis Northcutt / Cleanlab - Ep 51)

How Curtis Northcutt Closed a $25M Series A for Cleanlab (Curtis Northcutt / Cleanlab - Ep 51)

In this episode, Curtis Northcutt, MIT PhD and founder of CleanLab, shares his compelling journey from rural Kentucky to raising $25 million from Menlo Ventures and Bain Capital. Curtis reflects on the challenges of growing up with limited opportunities, the loneliness of dreaming big in a small town, and how those experiences ignited his drive to build something meaningful. He also dives into the complexities of raising capital during a downturn, balancing investor relationships, and making

Oct 29, 2024 • 1:02:47

TBC99: How Anxiety Ruins Warm Intros

TBC99: How Anxiety Ruins Warm Intros

In this episode of The Backchannel, we're diving into the role anxiety plays in fundraising, especially when it comes to warm introductions with investors. If you’ve ever hesitated to reach out to old contacts or second-guessed your follow-ups, this one's for you. Jason unpacks the three stages where anxiety can creep in: identifying who to contact, crafting outreach messages, and handling follow-ups. He offers practical tips to overcome these mental blocks and replace hesitation with confidenc

Oct 24, 2024 • 6:39

TBC98: GPs Have Trouble Raising Too

TBC98: GPs Have Trouble Raising Too

In this episode of The Backchannel, we’re talking about how VCs need to raise money too, not just startups. We break down what it’s like for venture capitalists to get funding from limited partners (LPs) and why it’s not always easy, especially for smaller funds. We also touch on how some VCs don’t put as much effort into fundraising as they expect from founders.This episode serves as a way to remind everyone that, just like startups, VCs need to always be building relationships and raising mone

Oct 17, 2024 • 6:50

TBC97: How to Build Awareness as a Founder the Right Way

TBC97: How to Build Awareness as a Founder the Right Way

In this episode, we dive into the concept of awareness for founders, focusing on how to effectively create it. We discuss different strategies to build visibility that feels genuine and impactful, rather than forced or overly targeted. This episode serves as a reminder that it's all about positioning ourselves in a way that naturally draws in interest and makes us stand out for the right reasons. This kind of awareness ultimately makes all the difference in how others perceive our business, espe

Oct 10, 2024 • 4:33

TBC96: How to Handle the Heat of an Investor Pitch

TBC96: How to Handle the Heat of an Investor Pitch

In this episode of The Backchannel, we talk about handling the pressure of investor pitches. Many founders feel anxious about facing tough questions from investors, but it’s important to understand that these questions often come from genuine interest, not an attempt to catch you off guard. We explore why investors ask challenging questions and how to reframe them as opportunities. We also touch on how your existing knowledge and experience can help you confidently navigate these conversations,

Oct 3, 2024 • 8:10

How Teasha Cable Closed a $1M Seed Round for CModel (Teasha Cable / CModel - Ep 50)

How Teasha Cable Closed a $1M Seed Round for CModel (Teasha Cable / CModel - Ep 50)

After bootstrapping her company for months, Teasha Cable, founder and CEO of CModel decided it was time to raise. But early on, the rejections came in hard. Instead of giving up or getting offended, she learned from each rejection, tweaked her approach, and started executing on what investors wanted to see. After a lot of trial and error, she locked down a lead investor in the Alabama Futures Fund that ended up leading her to close a $1M seed round in a not-so-easy market.But even then, it took

Oct 1, 2024 • 1:08:48

TBC95: Types & Motivations of Angel Investors

TBC95: Types & Motivations of Angel Investors

In this episode of The Backchannel, we explore the different types of angel investors you’re likely to encounter early on in your startup journey. We dive into the factors that define these investors—ranging from their wealth to their level of sophistication—and how their motivations shape their involvement. Whether you’re seeking strategic support or just looking to raise capital, understanding these dynamics can help you navigate which angels to bring on board and which ones to avoid. Listen i

Sep 26, 2024 • 9:36

TBC94: Unpacking Uncapped SAFEs

TBC94: Unpacking Uncapped SAFEs

In this episode of The Backchannel, we explore the ins and outs of valuation caps and uncapped SAFEs. Many founders toss around terms like valuation caps without fully understanding their impact, and we’re here to break it down.We’ll dive into why some investors and founders are drawn to uncapped SAFEs, the potential risks involved, and when this type of funding structure might actually make sense. Tune in to learn why this approach can be tricky for both sides and how to navigate these waters w

Sep 19, 2024 • 9:22

TBC93: Valuations, SAFEs & Convertible Notes Explained

TBC93: Valuations, SAFEs & Convertible Notes Explained

In this episode of The Back Channel, Jason tackles the often misunderstood concept of valuation caps in fundraising. He walks through what a valuation cap is, how it works, and its role in SAFE agreements and convertible notes. Jason explains how these caps affect the conversion of investments into equity during future funding rounds, and covers the difference between pre-money and post-money valuation caps. The goal is to help founders better grasp the math behind the numbers, so they can navig

Sep 12, 2024 • 9:39

How Michael Diesu Closed a $2.5M Seed Round for Revenue Roll (Michael Diesu / Revenue Roll - Ep 49)

How Michael Diesu Closed a $2.5M Seed Round for Revenue Roll (Michael Diesu / Revenue Roll - Ep 49)

Entrepreneurship is unpredictable—just when you think you’ve got it all mapped out, you're hit with a tough choice between two very different paths.One feels safe and familiar, while the other is full of potential, uncertainty, and risk. Every founder faces that pivotal moment: Do you play it safe, or take the leap?Today’s guest, Michael Diesu, co-founder and CEO of Revenue Roll, knows this dilemma all too well. From diving headfirst into the startup world against conventional advice to navigati

Sep 10, 2024 • 53:12

TBC92: Revisiting Post-Money vs Pre-Money Cap SAFEs

TBC92: Revisiting Post-Money vs Pre-Money Cap SAFEs

In this episode of The Backchannel, we revisit a fundamental topic that every founder should understand: post-money cap SAFEs and their implications. Starting with a refresher on the basics of post-money versus pre-money valuations, the discussion then moves into how these financial instruments impact founder ownership and why they can be tricky. Listeners will gain insights into the dynamics of post-money caps, particularly the hidden complexities that can affect a company’s valuation during fu

Sep 5, 2024 • 9:13

TBC91: Investor Lists & Launching a Fundraise (HOW TO)

TBC91: Investor Lists & Launching a Fundraise (HOW TO)

In this episode of The Backchannel, Jason dives into one of the most overlooked yet essential tasks in fundraising: building your target investor list. He breaks down why so many founders avoid this work—it’s time-consuming, tedious, and can be confusing. But also emphasizes its importance and offers a step-by-step guide on how to tackle it effectively. From researching top-down and bottoms-up investor lists to mapping out connections and crafting the right emails, Jason covers it all. He also s

Aug 29, 2024 • 11:02

How Christal Wang Closed a $2.2M Seed Round for Shimmer (Christal Wang / Shimmer - Ep 48)

How Christal Wang Closed a $2.2M Seed Round for Shimmer (Christal Wang / Shimmer - Ep 48)

Fundraising can be both the most aggravating and comforting part of a founder’s journey. It only takes one “yes” to change everything, but getting there often means facing a mountain of “no’s.” Not every founder has the resilience to push through the rejection, but those who do often find success right when they’re ready to give up.In today’s episode, I chat with Christal Wang, co-founder and CEO of Shimmer, the top ADHD coaching platform for adults. Christal shares her journey from YC to closin

Aug 27, 2024 • 53:08

TBC90: What Do Pre-Seed & Seed Rounds Look Like in This Market?

TBC90: What Do Pre-Seed & Seed Rounds Look Like in This Market?

In this episode of The Backchannel, we dive into a topic that’s been on a lot of founders’ minds: the difference between pre-seed and seed rounds in today’s shifting market. We explain how the definitions and expectations for these funding stages have evolved, especially after the wild fluctuations caused by events like ZIRP and the SVB collapse.We break down what VCs are now looking for in pre-seed deals and seed deals in the current market.We also address common questions, like whether you can

Aug 22, 2024 • 8:20

TBC89: Why You Need Deadlines for Your Raise

TBC89: Why You Need Deadlines for Your Raise

In this episode of The Backchannel, the focus is on the critical role deadlines play in successful fundraising efforts. Deadlines can create a sense of scarcity and urgency, helping founders manage and control the fundraising process more effectively. By setting clear deadlines for meetings and feedback, founders can signal to investors that there are other interested parties and maintain a balance of power. Additionally, using deadlines tactfully, combining firmness with politeness, ensures the

Aug 15, 2024 • 8:03

How Orri Bogdan Raised a $2M Seed Round for VAE Labs (Orri Bogdan / VAE Labs - Ep 47)

How Orri Bogdan Raised a $2M Seed Round for VAE Labs (Orri Bogdan / VAE Labs - Ep 47)

In this episode, we explore the realities of fundraising with Orri Bogdan, Founder and CEO of VAE Labs. Like many founders before him, Orri’s journey to raising a $2M seed round was fraught with challenges. From losing co-founders to product failures and numerous rejections from VCs, Orri faced it all. Yet, he persevered by immersing himself in founder communities, forging connections, and eventually securing funding from Draper Associates. Orri’s story is a testament to the grit and determinati

Aug 13, 2024 • 1:00:43

TBC88: How To Show VCs Traction

TBC88: How To Show VCs Traction

In this episode of The Back Channel, we explore a critical topic for founders: showcasing traction to VCs.Jason does another mailbag answering questions submitted by founders worldwide, exploring topics like how macroeconomic conditions impact investor targets, the importance of presenting meaningful metrics, and strategies for highlighting your unique traction. We also discuss key red flags to avoid and tips on effectively presenting growth without setting unrealistic expectations. Listen in fo

Aug 8, 2024 • 12:22

TBC87: Answering Founders Questions About The Fundraising Process

TBC87: Answering Founders Questions About The Fundraising Process

In this episode of The Backchannel, we revisit a popular topic among founders: how to create efficient fundraising processes. We address several questions submitted by founders, exploring various aspects of the fundraising journey. Our discussion covers strategies for improving investor outreach, managing communications, and maintaining momentum throughout the process. We also touch on common challenges founders face and offer general advice on approaching investor interactions. This Q&A format

Aug 1, 2024 • 14:47

How Coco Brown Raised $2.5M in Venture Capital for Athena Alliance (Coco Brown / Athena Alliance - Ep 46)

How Coco Brown Raised $2.5M in Venture Capital for Athena Alliance (Coco Brown / Athena Alliance - Ep 46)

In this episode, we sit down with Coco Brown, founder of Athena Alliance, to discuss her journey of transforming a nonprofit into a venture-backed enterprise and successfully raising $2.5M in funding.Coco shares her experience with the challenging fundraising climate of 2023 and how she navigated countless investor rejections. She talks about the pivotal moment when one investor’s commitment turned things around and how that single yes sparked a wave of support. We explore her strategies for cap

Jul 30, 2024 • 59:09

TBC86: How Do I handle Inbound Interest From VCs?

TBC86: How Do I handle Inbound Interest From VCs?

In this episode, we're tackling an important startup scenario: unexpected VC interest. We'll be answering a question Jason received from a founder who received an out-of-the-blue email from an investor. We'll also some practical tips on how to handle these situations smoothly, including ways to maintain control of the conversation and your timeline, the benefits of not immediately jumping into fundraising mode, how to research potential investors, and what to prepare (spoiler: less than you migh

Jul 25, 2024 • 8:03

TBC85: 5 Controversial Fundraising Ideas

TBC85: 5 Controversial Fundraising Ideas

In this episode of The Back Channel, we dive into five thought-provoking strategies to elevate your fundraising game while challenging existing advice.We explore concepts like pitch deck templates, riskiness of your idea, seeking rejection, tiering investors, and fundraising preparation.Join us as we challenge norms and empower you to refine your fundraising tactics effectively. -- If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights a

Jul 18, 2024 • 11:51

How Brian Raymond Raised $65 Million in Funding for Unstructured IO (Brian Raymond / Unstructured IO - Ep 45)

How Brian Raymond Raised $65 Million in Funding for Unstructured IO (Brian Raymond / Unstructured IO - Ep 45)

A lot of entrepreneurs take risks when they're young and have nothing to lose. For others, it's a different story. Maybe they found their dream job, started a family, bought a house, and then something happens that completely throws them off course.Today's guest was one of those people. After an unexpected situation, he decided to take a chance and start a company he saw an opportunity for back at his previous job in AI. It ended up being a good chance to take...Today we're speaking with Brian R

Jul 16, 2024 • 57:31

TBC84: Why Smart People Struggle With Fundraising

TBC84: Why Smart People Struggle With Fundraising

In this episode of The Backchannel, the focus is on why intelligent individuals often struggle with pitching to investors. The discussion includes the common pitfalls such as overemphasizing data, battling imposter syndrome, and the tendency to overcomplicate pitches to prove intelligence.The importance of simplicity, emotional connection, and embracing rejection as part of the fundraising process is  also highlighted.Overall, the episode provides valuable insights and strategies for intelligent

Jul 11, 2024 • 7:31

TBC83: Answering Founders Questions About Pitch Decks

TBC83: Answering Founders Questions About Pitch Decks

In this episode of The Backchannel, Jason answers 5 questions submitted by founders about pitch decks and pitching strategies. During the episode, he highlights the importance of simplicity and clarity in both deck design and delivery. Jason also discusses balancing design and content, conveying a compelling vision, and avoiding information overload. On top of that he also touches on effective communication in short pitches and the strategic use of competition slides. Make sure to listen to hear

Jul 5, 2024 • 15:59

How Analisa Goodin Raised Over $31 Million in Funding for Catch+Release (Analisa Goodin / Catch+Release - Ep 44)

How Analisa Goodin Raised Over $31 Million in Funding for Catch+Release (Analisa Goodin / Catch+Release - Ep 44)

When all you've ever known is running a bootstrapped startup... the world of venture capital can feel pretty intimidating. Bootstrapping a company is an extreme sport, and so is going down the path of venture capital - but each path is completely different from one another.You might have been able to build an amazing company that you believe can be huge (with the help of venture dollars), but without understanding how the game of venture capital actually works - you're at a huge disadvantage.Tod

Jul 2, 2024 • 57:04

TBC82: Understanding VC Signals

TBC82: Understanding VC Signals

VC signals can be tricky. A lot of them are deeply intertwined with social dynamics and can change investor interest in a matter of seconds.In this episode, Jason shares a recent example of how fast negative signaling can impact a deal.Listen to the full episode to learn about different types of VC signals and how you can use them to help you raise your round!  -- If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise

Jun 27, 2024 • 1:30

TBC81: Answering Your Questions About Getting Passed On

TBC81: Answering Your Questions About Getting Passed On

Welcome back to The Backchannel! In this episode, we're trying out a new format where we dive into your burning questions about how founders should navigate investor passes. Join Jason as he addresses the following questions:- Should you send a follow-up email after a pass? How soon is too soon to follow up after an informal meeting? - Is it appropriate to ask for feedback on why an investor passed? - How soon do I follow up with an investor who seemed interested?If you enjoy this format, let us

Jun 20, 2024 • 11:06

The Story Behind Incognia's Pivot & How it Led Them to Raise $45.6M

The Story Behind Incognia's Pivot & How it Led Them to Raise $45.6M

When life throws you tough times, you only have two options: to give up or find a solution.Today's guest felt slightly differently when they  ran into some truly unexpected situations... they decided there was actually only one option: find a solution and move forward.Our guest for this episode is André Ferraz, co-founder and CEO of Incognia, a fast growing leader in the online fraud prevention space.Over the past decade, Incognia has had its fair share of ups, downs and even pivots - ultimately

Jun 18, 2024 • 1:08:41

TBC80: Why Monthly Investor Newsletters Might Be a Bad Idea for Founders

TBC80: Why Monthly Investor Newsletters Might Be a Bad Idea for Founders

In this episode of The Backchannel, Jason pushes back at the common practice of founders sending out monthly investor newsletter updates.Although it may work for some founders, monthly newsletters aren't for everyone.In this episode Jason shares a few other ways to use investor lists like targeted updates, requests for help, specific achievements and so on.Make sure to listen to the full episode to hear his full thoughts! -- If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newslet

Jun 13, 2024 • 9:15

TBC: Is Silicon Valley Still the Place to Be for Startups? (TBC79)

TBC: Is Silicon Valley Still the Place to Be for Startups? (TBC79)

Hey everyone, welcome back to the Back Channel! Today, we're mixing things up. My producer Paige read an article from the Bay Area Council Economic Institute and wanted my take. They claim tech workers are flocking back to SF, with major companies still headquartered there, and a big chunk of AI investment dollars staying local. Although there's truth to that, I think the pandemic has opened doors for other cities. San Francisco is still important due to its history and other specific reasons, b

Jun 6, 2024 • 9:08

The Story Behind Lex's $5.6M Seed Round (Jennifer Lewis / Lex - Ep 42)

The Story Behind Lex's $5.6M Seed Round (Jennifer Lewis / Lex - Ep 42)

In this episode, we dive into the unpredictable world of startups, where the only constant is change. Joining us is Jennifer Lewis, co-founder and CEO of Lex, a pioneering social app for the LGBTQ community. Jennifer shares her rollercoaster journey through the venture-backed startup landscape, a path filled with highs and lows, trials, and significant growth. Despite the notion that startups should be smooth sailing, Jennifer's experience tells a different story—one of persistence and resilienc

Jun 4, 2024 • 54:07

TBC: How Much Should I Raise? (TBC78)

TBC: How Much Should I Raise? (TBC78)

In this episode of The Backchannel, we explore everything you should consider when figuring out how much you need to raise. Jason delves into the common questions founders face regarding fundraising amounts, the importance of being goal-oriented, and the two key goals for raising funds.Jason also stresses the importance of calculating the necessary funds to hit these milestones, rather than opting for smaller, seemingly easier amounts that could lead to a "bridge to nowhere." Drawing from his me

May 30, 2024 • 6:00

TBC: How I Work - For Easily Distracted Founders (TBC77)

TBC: How I Work - For Easily Distracted Founders (TBC77)

In this episode of The Backchannel, the host launches a new series called "How I Work," exploring strategies for productivity. Jason delves into the challenges faced by founders, such as digital distractions, and shares his personal approach to combatting them. By disconnecting from the internet during certain periods and utilizing a digital notepad like the remarkable device, he emphasizes the importance of carving out distraction-free time to boost productivity. Join him as he shares insights

May 23, 2024 • 8:01

The Journey of Ian Swanson Starting 3 Venture-Backed Successes (Ian Swanson / Protect AI)

The Journey of Ian Swanson Starting 3 Venture-Backed Successes (Ian Swanson / Protect AI)

What makes someone a successful founder? Is it how much revenue they're able to generate? How well they lead their company and their employees? How many investors they're able to land? Those all play a role ... but the real answer is probably more nuanced and certainly harder to pinpoint. When we look at any successful founder throughout history, it's natural to wonder how they got there. To wonder what made them different from the thousands of others who tried to walk the same path and failed.T

May 21, 2024 • 1:06:28

TBC: Why Every Founder Needs Third-Party Feedback (TBC76)

TBC: Why Every Founder Needs Third-Party Feedback (TBC76)

In this episode of The Backchannel, the host emphasizes the critical role of third-party feedback in the fundraising process for entrepreneurs.Reflecting on a recent interaction with a founder, the host describes how an initially chaotic business pitch was clarified and refined through his outsider's perspective. This episode underscores the unique advantage of third-party insights, which strip away emotional biases and unnecessary details to highlight the core message that resonates. The takeaw

May 16, 2024 • 4:28

TBC: Pro Tip for VC's - The Personal Newsletter

TBC: Pro Tip for VC's - The Personal Newsletter

In this episode, the host shares the power of personal newsletters for VC's, shedding light on investor psychology and fundraising strategies. Drawing from anecdotes from his personal life and interactions with VC's, he highlights the importance of staying top of mind in the competitive landscape of deal flow.By sharing stories of missed opportunities and the dynamics of VC interactions, he underscores the significance of personal branding through newsletters. Ultimately, the episode offers a pr

May 9, 2024 • 8:41

How Nancy Xu Raised $10M for Moonhub (Nancy Xu / Moonhub - Ep 40)

How Nancy Xu Raised $10M for Moonhub (Nancy Xu / Moonhub - Ep 40)

Join us on a journey through the winding roads of entrepreneurship with our guest, Nancy Xu, the Founder & CEO of Moonhub.From her early days training for the U.S. math and physics team to her academic journey at Stanford and her stint as a software engineer at Facebook, Nancy seemed destined for academia. However, her passion for impactful ideas steered her towards entrepreneurship, leading her to start Moonhub, the pioneering AI-powered recruiter.With over $10 million raised in just two years,

May 7, 2024 • 53:56

TBC: How & Why to Get a Technical Co-founder (TBC74)

TBC: How & Why to Get a Technical Co-founder (TBC74)

In this episode, our host covers the importance of having a technical co-founder for non-technical founders and how to go about finding one. Venture capitalists seek teams with diverse skill sets, understanding that successful companies require both technical and non-technical expertise. For non-technical founders, making progress and creating value without a technical product is key to attracting top talent. By understanding the "why" and "how" of finding a technical co-founder, you'll be bette

May 2, 2024 • 5:39

TBC: Addressing Competition With Investors (TBC73)

TBC: Addressing Competition With Investors (TBC73)

In this episode of the Back Channel, we explore the importance of addressing competition during investor meetings. Drawing on an analogy from the hosts undergrad economics class, he emphasizes the significance of positioning oneself confidently alongside competitors and calmly articulating one's unique value proposition. Rather than avoiding the conversation, address the competition with calm confidence, focusing on your strengths and differentiation. It's all about owning your narrative and dem

Apr 25, 2024 • 3:53

The Story Behind SGNL Raising $22M in 2 Years (Scott Kriz / SGNL - Ep 39)

The Story Behind SGNL Raising $22M in 2 Years (Scott Kriz / SGNL - Ep 39)

There's a quote from Abraham Lincoln that always really speaks to me: "Give me 6 hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first 4 sharpening my axe." It's become a mantra of sorts for me, especially when it comes to fundraising. I share it with all of the founders I work with because it encapsulates a fundamental truth: the preparation before the task is key.In my experience, the ease of a fundraising journey is directly proportional to the groundwork laid beforehand. Those lightning-fast

Apr 23, 2024 • 1:02:25

TBC: Understanding VC Firms to Send the Right Signals (TBC72)

TBC: Understanding VC Firms to Send the Right Signals (TBC72)

In this episode of The Backchannel, host Jason Yeh delves into the world of junior VCs and their path to becoming venture capitalists. Drawing from his own experience at Greycroft and the hiring processes, he emphasizes the significance of technical backgrounds, industry connections, and experience in fields like consulting or banking. Venture capital firms prioritize hiring from networks with access to potential deals and founders, highlighting the importance of networking in this industry. Ult

Apr 18, 2024 • 5:32

TBC: Dilution 101 For Founders (TBC71)

TBC: Dilution 101 For Founders (TBC71)

Dilution is one of those things that a lot of founders seem to 'lightly' understand. That's why in today's episode, Jason breaks down a step-by-step example of how dilution actually works. Discover the significance of understanding dilution and its impact on ownership over your company.See you next week on The Backchannel! -- If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter

Apr 11, 2024 • 7:46

The Story Behind Purple Metrics Closing Their $1.2M Pre-Seed Round (Guta Tolmasquim / Purple Metrics - Ep 38)

The Story Behind Purple Metrics Closing Their $1.2M Pre-Seed Round (Guta Tolmasquim / Purple Metrics - Ep 38)

Bootstrapping and raising venture capital are two different beasts. Bootstrapping gives you control, but growth is slower. Venture capital speeds things up, but you have to give up some control. There is, however, one thing they both have in common: each requires a leap of faith.Today's guest is pretty unique. She's someone who's gotten to experience building both types of companies - one bootstrapped, one venture backed.That guest is Guta Tolmasquim, founder and CEO of Purple Metrics, which rec

Apr 9, 2024 • 58:27

TBC: Why the Pre-Seed Round Was Created... and How It's Changed (TBC70)

TBC: Why the Pre-Seed Round Was Created... and How It's Changed (TBC70)

A lot of people tend to forget that the pre-seed round in venture capital is still relatively new. In today's episode, we talk about how the pre-seed round came about, and how it's changed since moving farther away from the bull markets back in 2020 and 2021. One of those changes being the need for investors to see traction earlier and earlier before investing. Make sure to watch the full episode to hear all the insights around pre-seed rounds! -- If you're looking for more fundraising content,

Apr 4, 2024 • 6:45

TBC: Taking Advice From Charlie Munger (TBC69)

TBC: Taking Advice From Charlie Munger (TBC69)

Have you ever heard of the quote "The safest way to get what you want is to deserve what you want"?It was said by the legendary investor Charlie Munger, and in todays episode we're going to talk about how you can apply that same understanding to fundraising as a startup founder.Get ready to listen along and ask yourself to answer hard truths about yourself and your company. See you next week on The Backchannel! -- If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed

Mar 28, 2024 • 4:27

The Story Behind Atlys Raising $16.3M in Venture Capital (Mohak Nahta / Atlys - Ep 37)

The Story Behind Atlys Raising $16.3M in Venture Capital (Mohak Nahta / Atlys - Ep 37)

Most of us have heard the saying "good things don't come easy", and I'd be willing to argue that the majority of people agree with that statement on some level. But sometimes, good things do come easy and THEN they get harder. And it's in those pivotal moments where you really get to see what you're capable of. That was the case for today's guest Mohak Nahta - founder and CEO of Atlys - a company he started as a side project to solve his own problem of getting his visa on time when traveling.In

Mar 26, 2024 • 1:05:13

TBC: Should You Announce Your Fundraise? Pros vs Cons.

TBC: Should You Announce Your Fundraise? Pros vs Cons.

Hello & welcome back to The Backchannel! Today, we're diving into a topic that's often overshadowed in the frenzy of fundraising: whether or not to announce your round.Drawing from the hosts own experiences and observations, he'll guide you through some of the complexities involved in making this decision. Join us as we dissect the strategic implications and weigh the pros and cons, offering practical insights for founders charting their course in the startup landscape.See you next week! -- If y

Mar 21, 2024 • 7:24

TBC: The 7 Forms of Support You Need to Fundraise (TBC67)

TBC: The 7 Forms of Support You Need to Fundraise (TBC67)

The truth is - most first-time fundraisers underestimate all that goes into fundraising and the support you need to make it through.In this episode, Jason touches on 7 different emotional and tactical forms of support every founder should be aware of before jumping into a fundraise.Make sure to watch the full episode so you don't miss any!See you next week on The Backchannel. -- If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights arou

Mar 14, 2024 • 9:16

Betting on Yourself: The Journey to Closing a $7.6M Seed Round (Stacy Edgar / Venteur - Ep 36)

Betting on Yourself: The Journey to Closing a $7.6M Seed Round (Stacy Edgar / Venteur - Ep 36)

There is one thing that almost every single entrepreneur has in common - the drive to change the world in some way, shape, or form.For today's guest, she spent years of her career working for organizations like Doctors Without Borders and the United Nations, living overseas and funding entrepreneurs who were trying to make a difference in their communities.Stacy Edgar is the co-founder and CEO of Ventuer, a company revolutionizing the healthcare space. To date, Venteur has raised a total of $7.7

Mar 12, 2024 • 50:32

TBC: Lead vs. Co-Lead Investors (TBC66)

TBC: Lead vs. Co-Lead Investors (TBC66)

In this episode of The Backchannel, the host delves into the intricacies of lead investors versus co-leads, breaking down the key distinctions and red flags to watch out for. Learn why securing a dedicated lead investor holds paramount importance in navigating the complexities of fundraising, and gain valuable insights into the potential pitfalls of co-lead arrangements. Tune in for an informative exploration of investment dynamics and strategic considerations to think about before considering g

Mar 7, 2024 • 7:01

TBC: Pattern Recognition (TBC65)

TBC: Pattern Recognition (TBC65)

Join us in this episode for an insightful discussion on pattern recognition in venture capital and its impact on underrepresented founders. The host dives into the power dynamics of pattern matching, exploring how VCs use this tool to make investment decisions while shedding light on its potential biases. From the imprecision of pattern recognition to strategies for overcoming its limitations, this episode offers practical insights for both founders and investors. Listen in for a solid conversat

Feb 29, 2024 • 8:14

Builder Turned Fundraiser: Traction's $45M Series B (Igor Marinelli / Tractian - Ep 35)

Builder Turned Fundraiser: Traction's $45M Series B (Igor Marinelli / Tractian - Ep 35)

While most kids were occupied with typical childhood activities, today's guest was already knee-deep in the world of technology. From coding PHP to deconstructing old computers with his pops, his early passion for innovation set the stage for an extraordinary entrepreneurial journey.Fast forward to the present, Igor Marinelli stands as the visionary co-founder of Tractian, a cutting-edge machine intelligence company that has gained significant attention in the startup ecosystem. With an impressi

Feb 27, 2024 • 59:44

TBC: The Use of Funds Slide (TBC64)

TBC: The Use of Funds Slide (TBC64)

In this episode, the host tackles a common yet often misunderstood slide in pitch decks: the "use of funds" slide. Many founders include it because they've heard it's necessary, but often it ends up being a vague waste of space. Instead, use this slide strategically to outline where you are today, your future goals, and how the allocated funds will be specifically utilized. By anchoring it in concrete objectives and clear allocation, you not only inform investors but also demonstrate a thoughtfu

Feb 22, 2024 • 5:13

TBC: The Secret Value of the Email Appendix (TBC63)

TBC: The Secret Value of the Email Appendix (TBC63)

In this episode of the Back Channel, Jason shares a fresh approach to email communication that's both personal and impactful.Learn how to craft emails with a punchy, genuine tone while including a business-focused appendix for all the important details.Say goodbye to lengthy, synthetic emails and hello to increased response rates. Listen and discover the power of the email appendix and revolutionize your communication style! -- If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly news

Feb 15, 2024 • 5:06

Trailblazing the VC Industry (Joanna Strober / Midi Health - Ep 34)

Trailblazing the VC Industry (Joanna Strober / Midi Health - Ep 34)

In the last two decades, the startup industry has seen remarkable transformations, from the emergence of angel investors and venture capital firms to the rise of SaaS, cryptocurrencies, and the global diversification of the field.But what's even more exciting is the increasing presence of female founders, who, despite facing challenges, are making significant strides in entrepreneurship.Today, we're chatting with Joanna Strober, a founder who's witnessed this industry shift firsthand. From being

Feb 13, 2024 • 50:59

TBC: 3 Tips for Choosing Service Providers (TBC62)

TBC: 3 Tips for Choosing Service Providers (TBC62)

In this episode of The Back Channel, we delve into a crucial post-fundraising topic: choosing service providers for your startup.While it may seem mundane, the decision-making process can greatly impact your business. Key takeaways include filtering for providers with startup expertise, considering the additional value they offer beyond their core services, and trusting your instincts about the working relationship. -- If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter pa

Feb 8, 2024 • 4:59

TBC: What's the Deal With Thesis-Driven Firms? (TBC61)

TBC: What's the Deal With Thesis-Driven Firms? (TBC61)

Join Jason Yeh on The Back Channel as he demystifies thesis-driven firms. They may not be as rigid as you think! Ever wondered why these firms love their theses? It's not just about focus; it's also a way to say "no" graciously when a deal doesn't spark joy. Plus, it can also be used for flexibility! Some startups may not seem thesis-fit, but if you dig deeper, they'll find intriguing connections to make the deal work.Don't be afraid to engage with thesis-driven firms. Look beyond the thesis, ex

Feb 1, 2024 • 5:56

Paying the Peter Thiel Price (Dylan Beynon / Mindbloom - Ep 33)

Paying the Peter Thiel Price (Dylan Beynon / Mindbloom - Ep 33)

Just like with any skill, there are beginners, and there are experts. Through practice and experience, the experts become exceptional at what they do.In fundraising, there are also experts. You could call them the "seasoned vets" of venture capital. These are the founders that have raised all the way from small angel rounds to Series B and beyond. It's safe to say that any founder who's raised over 4 rounds of venture capital knows a thing or two about fundraising.Today, I get to share my conver

Jan 30, 2024 • 1:06:18

TBC: Bouncing Back After Failure (TBC60)

TBC: Bouncing Back After Failure (TBC60)

In this episode, Jason shares a conversation with a founder who recently raised capital but had to close their startup.First-time founders, remember that every setback is a chance to improve. Closing a startup isn't the end; it's a chance to evolve.Once you've felt the grind and tasted success and failure, your perspective changes. You gain insights you can't find in books or tweets.It's also important to note that venture capitalists value founders who've been through the startup rollercoaster.

Jan 25, 2024 • 5:49

TBC: Creating a Story That Can Be Shared (TBC59)

TBC: Creating a Story That Can Be Shared (TBC59)

Ever wondered why your startup story and pitch deck need to be razor-sharp? Sure, you want to impress investors, but there's more to it than meets the eye. Host Jason Yeh dives into the secret sauce of crafting a compelling narrative that not only wows investors but also ensures your story gets shared effectively.In this episode:💡 Discover the critical importance of a concise story that grabs attention💡 Learn why your pitch deck is more than just a visual aid—it's your investor's roadmap.💡 Un

Jan 18, 2024 • 4:58

A Wyoming Success Story ( Heather Shoemaker / Language I/O - Ep 32)

A Wyoming Success Story ( Heather Shoemaker / Language I/O - Ep 32)

2023 was a tough year to fundraise. Almost all venture-backed founders felt the toll of being in a  down market this past year. But when you're a female engineer, on top of that a female founder of a tech company - it almost always feels like a tough year to fundraise. For Heather Shoemaker, Founder and CEO of Language I/O, she never expected to fundraise. She ran a profitable company and was growing steadily each year from her headquarters in Cheyenne, Wyoming! But as we know - things change. C

Jan 16, 2024 • 1:06:21

TBC: Should Founders Try Again With Investors Who've Passed? (TBC58)

TBC: Should Founders Try Again With Investors Who've Passed? (TBC58)

In this episode, we explore the wisdom behind reconnecting with investors who previously passed on your pitch. Remember, investor passes aren't personal; they often stem from timing or fit issues. Before reconnecting, update your narrative with progress highlights. When reaching out, exude confidence without begging. Showcase your growth, increasing investor interest, and upcoming fundraising round. These reconnections aren't just about securing funding; they're opportunities to refine your pitc

Jan 11, 2024 • 6:02

TBC: Don't Fall Into The Builder's Trap (TBC57)

TBC: Don't Fall Into The Builder's Trap (TBC57)

In this Backchannel episode, Jason tackles a familiar trap for founders: productive procrastination! From fixing pages to creating automations, it's easy to get caught up in tasks that feel productive but aren't top priorities for fundraising. I get it, working on things you enjoy is crucial, but as a founder, your plate's overflowing. Listen to this episode to hear Jason's insights on how to distinguish between enjoyable distractions and high-leverage tasks that drive real progress. Prioritize

Jan 4, 2024 • 5:36

Fundraising EQUALS Hard Work (Bobby Pinero / Levels - Ep 31)

Fundraising EQUALS Hard Work (Bobby Pinero / Levels - Ep 31)

Not every entrepreneur starts off knowing what business they want to create. For Bobby Pinero, Co-founder and CEO of Equals, it took him 8 years of building Intercoms Finance Organization to the success it is today until he found the product he wanted to create. Best part? He is building the product he always wished he had while working there. In today's episode we dive into Bobby's background, how he decided on Equals, and ultimately the trials and tribulations that went along with raising a $1

Jan 2, 2024 • 1:04:55

TBC:  The Similarities Between Real Estate and Fundraising (TBC56)

TBC: The Similarities Between Real Estate and Fundraising (TBC56)

Have you ever compared fundraising with real estate?Once you do, you'll be shocked by their similarities.In today's episode, Jason gives a real life example of how he discovered just how similar they are.While having to find a new renter for his home, he realized how he still needed to build momentum, keep options open, and communicate the value of the property in a way that grasped others attention.He even learned the lesson of not getting too ahead of yourself, and to keep running a process un

Dec 28, 2023 • 7:55

TBC: The Need For Support in Fundraising (TBC55)

TBC: The Need For Support in Fundraising (TBC55)

For a topic that seems to be "cliche", it sure is important. What if we were to tell you that getting support around your fundraise is one of the best ways to guarantee success? As founders, you are automatically biased toward your own product. That means you are also biased toward your pitch, deck, and any other materials you might share with an investor. In this episode, Jason dives into 3 areas of fundraising you should be getting support around, and why it's so important. See you guys next w

Dec 21, 2023 • 7:49

TBC: CEOs Should Always Be the Ones to Pitch (TBC54)

TBC: CEOs Should Always Be the Ones to Pitch (TBC54)

Who should be the one to pitch - the CEO or the outgoing salesman? In today's episode of The Backchannel, Jason explains why he believes the CEO should always be the one pitching to investors. Although there might be a few exceptions, investors are looking to get to know the person who is running the ship and making the big decisions. A salesman sells the vision, the CEO is the one who executes on it. Remember: investors bet on the jockey, not just the horse. See you next week! -- If you're look

Dec 14, 2023 • 5:16

TBC: Explaining "The Money Round" (TBC53)

TBC: Explaining "The Money Round" (TBC53)

In this Back Channel episode, we're diving into the elusive "money round" investors adore. So what is it? To sum it up, the "money round" is the round before a valuation spike. Investors are searching for crystal-clear milestones and confident execution that screams, "Next round, here we come!" How do you do that? Make sure to watch the full episode where Jason dives into the details. See you next week! -- If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of

Dec 7, 2023 • 6:54

TBC: Preparing For a Pitch Competition (TBC52)

TBC: Preparing For a Pitch Competition (TBC52)

Working with founders it's safe to say Jason has seen a lot of pitches, good and bad. Not to mention he himself has pitched quite a bit in his past as a VC-backed founder. In that time, he's learned what to do and not to do.‍ In this episode, Jason gives some practical tips around how to make the most of your pitch for a pitch competition. Enjoy the episode!‍ -- If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise m

Nov 30, 2023 • 5:16

TBC: Data Rooms - What You Need to Know (TBC51)

TBC: Data Rooms - What You Need to Know (TBC51)

There's a lot of talk about data rooms in the startup world - but a lot of founders struggle to understand what a data room actually is. In today's episode, Jason discusses their purpose in validating a startup's pitch for investors. On top of that, he explains when and how to share a data room effectively. Founders, if you're even slightly confused around how to properly use your data room to help you get funded - watch this episode! -- If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our w

Nov 27, 2023 • 7:53

TBC: Pitching VCs Through a Screen (TBC50)

TBC: Pitching VCs Through a Screen (TBC50)

In this episode, we're unraveling the mystery behind Zoom-based pitches – a critical skill in the post-March 2020 startup landscape. Jason takes us on a journey, reminiscing about the pre-COVID days of in-person meetings, shaking hands, and engaging conversations. Ever wondered why some pitches feel like a Broadway show while others are just a mundane PowerPoint affair? Today, he shares the secret sauce: making your Zoom pitch more of a dialogue and less of a presentation. Forget the monotony, i

Nov 16, 2023 • 6:39

TBC: Launch Before You're Ready (TBC49)

TBC: Launch Before You're Ready (TBC49)

Slow and steady doesn't always win the race. In this episode of The Backchannel, we dive into a unique perspective on startup success that's not just about fundraising but about building a thriving business. Jason emphasizes the importance of launching your startup before you think you're ready. Forget about striving for perfection—what you really need is to get something out there and start chatting with customers. Find out how launching before your masterpiece is complete not only leads to a b

Nov 9, 2023 • 5:17

TBC: How to Grow Your Network FAST (TBC48)

TBC: How to Grow Your Network FAST (TBC48)

In this episode of The Back Channel, we've got a cool fundraising hack for you. Ever thought about hosting networking dinners to amp up your investor connections? Sure you won't become best friends overnight, but these connections create a sense of mutual support for one another. Plus, it might surprise you how similar the process of setting up a networking dinner is to setting up a fundraise. If you're tired of feeling like you have no way of growing your network - this episode is for you. -- I

Nov 2, 2023 • 4:31

TBC: Importance of CRM Systems When Fundraising (TBC47)

TBC: Importance of CRM Systems When Fundraising (TBC47)

One of the hard truths of fundraising is that most founders don't have nearly enough investors added to their target lists. Some stop at 20, others even less. In all reality, you should AT LEAST be targeting 100. And if you're going to be targeting that many, one of the things you are going to need is a CRM system. Having a database for tracking your communications is one of the best ways to run a tight process and stay organized when meeting with investors. In this episode, Jason dives into the

Oct 26, 2023 • 4:55

TBC: Pre-seed vs. Seed - What's the difference?

TBC: Pre-seed vs. Seed - What's the difference?

Pre-seed vs. seed. It seems there are more and more terms coming out, but no one fully knows what they mean. My guess is even most investors don't actually know the difference. Nevertheless, it's good to get an overall understanding of what the world of venture capital means by these two closely associated terms. In this episode, Jason outlines the key differences between seed and pre-seed while also explaining how to answer this seemingly hard question from investors: "Are you raising seed or p

Oct 19, 2023 • 6:55

TBC: How to Handle Investor Rejection (TBC45)

TBC: How to Handle Investor Rejection (TBC45)

Rejection. It's a fundamental part of the game, even for the biggest success stories like Airbnb. Rejection is tough, but it's also a chance to learn. Don't let it drag you down; build a packed calendar for pitches, boost your confidence, and remember that every "no" is a step closer to a "yes." Rejection is your path to funding success. Believe it! -- If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fund

Oct 12, 2023 • 6:49

TBC: Preparing to Fundraise in a Down Market (TBC44)

TBC: Preparing to Fundraise in a Down Market (TBC44)

We are in new times. Raising money has become harder than it used to be. Impressing VCs has started to feel like it's impossible. Because I work with founders on a daily basis, I know the struggle. So, I made this episode where I'll be going over the top things to be prepared for before going out to raise. Founders, it's time to take notes!--If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/n

Oct 5, 2023 • 6:15

TBC: Build Your Reputation First (TBC43)

TBC: Build Your Reputation First (TBC43)

A few months ago I had a fireside chat with a successful venture backed founder and friend of mine, Daniel Hatkoff. I wanted to bring him on is because like myself, he has also gotten to wear both hats as a VC and founder, so he's got a ton of valuable information around raising venture capital. During our chat there was this reoccurring theme of reputation, and how building his ultimately led to a successful $30M round for his company Pitzi. In this episode, I go over the key takeaways from our

Sep 28, 2023 • 6:12

Down by 20? Down But Not Out... (Tiffany Kelly / Curastory - Ep 30)

Down by 20? Down But Not Out... (Tiffany Kelly / Curastory - Ep 30)

Let me get something straight: fundraising is tough. You will be challenged. You will be knocked down. But if you have true grit and passion for your company, not even the hardest of blows can keep you down. For Tiffany Kelly, CEO and founder of Curastory - she know's all too well what it's like to take a hit. And less than two months ago, she experienced what I call a founders worst nightmare. In today's episode, you get to hear an unfiltered version of what it's like being a founder raising mu

Sep 26, 2023 • 1:00:38

TBC: Insights From My Trip to Brazil (TBC42)

TBC: Insights From My Trip to Brazil (TBC42)

Depending on how long you've followed me or stayed in touch with what I'm up to, some of you might not know that I fly down to Brazil at least a few times a year. One reason being I have a good friend who runs a company down there called Colbi. I had no idea that he would connect with me the founder of an organization that I still partner with till this day called Latitud. If I had to sum up what Latitud is, I'd say it's now the YC of LATAM. Since then, I've fallen in love with the startup ecosy

Sep 21, 2023 • 6:04

TBC: Work / Life Balance (TBC41)

TBC: Work / Life Balance (TBC41)

As an entrepreneur, it is all too easy to lose yourself in your work. If you aren't careful, your entire life becomes consumed by it. This is not to say you shouldn't be obsessed with the your company and the goals that you have for it. But let it be a reminder that forcing yourself into burnout is not serving you or your company. As a 3x founder himself, our host Jason Yeh dives into 3 things he does to maintain a sense of work/life balance. If you are some who struggles to unplug from your wor

Sep 14, 2023 • 8:19

Becoming the Pepsi to Indeed's Coke (Lucas Martinez / Talent.com - Ep 29)

Becoming the Pepsi to Indeed's Coke (Lucas Martinez / Talent.com - Ep 29)

It's becoming more and more common for people to get through college and realize they still have no idea what they want out of life. On top of that, majority of the time we're too scared to do anything about it. Next thing we know time has passed and we feel suffocated in a job we don't even like. We put our dreams on the back burner, sacrificing creativity for stability. For today's guest Lucas Martinez - Co-founder and CEO of Talent.com - he knew right away that the corporate world wasn't for

Sep 12, 2023 • 53:13

TBC: The Role of Emotions in Pitching (TBC 40)

TBC: The Role of Emotions in Pitching (TBC 40)

What's the most important part of pitching your company to VCs? Some think it's sharing the right numbers and statistics. Others think it's about giving the investors a wealth of information about the company. And then there's those who believe storytelling to be the key. To be clear, I think all of these are important aspects of a pitch. But theres something missing - emotion. If you tell a story but have no emotional connection to it, it's just a story. If you overload investors with informati

Sep 7, 2023 • 3:17

TBC: What VCs Are Saying About AI Investing (TBC39)

TBC: What VCs Are Saying About AI Investing (TBC39)

Ever since chatGPT was released in November of 2022, there has been a flood of other AI platforms pulling from OpenAI's original technology. That being said I was so curious to know what that means for venture capital firms funding these new AI companies, when it seemed like all the hard work was being done by OpenAI. Why were investors pouring money into these AI startups that didn't seem to have defensible technology? I wanted to hear from experts in the industry who could give me answers - so

Aug 31, 2023 • 8:41

Thriving With or Without Funding (Andrew Gazdecki / Acquire.com - Ep 28)

Thriving With or Without Funding (Andrew Gazdecki / Acquire.com - Ep 28)

Andrew Gazdecki might have had some successful raises (totaling over $11M) but paradoxically, he believes 99% of founders shouldn't raise.As the founder of Acquire.com, the best online marketplace to buy and sell startups - Andrew fills us in on the dangers of placing too much importance on fundraising as a founder. Instead he believes in focusing on constant improvement, listening to your customers, and creating an amazing culture. From there, everything else will fall into place.Glorified by t

Aug 29, 2023 • 1:02:53

TBC: Intros & Forwardable Emails

TBC: Intros & Forwardable Emails

The art of introductions is something heavily ignored when founders are learning how to start their fundraising process. Truth is, intros are the lifeblood of a great fundraise. There are many different components that go into making introductions, but today we'll be focusing specifically on forwardable emails. While meant to simplify, intros often backfire - especially if you lack a process behind it. This episode will give you all of the basics surrounding forwardable emails like sequences of

Aug 24, 2023 • 5:54

TBC: Side Letter Warning

TBC: Side Letter Warning

Side letters are not only more complicated than they seem but dangerous to your fundraise if not properly managed. Side letters, often accompanying standard agreements like safes, may seem harmless at first but can include onerous clauses like pro-rata rights. In this episode Jason emphasizes the importance of early negotiation and proactive communication to safeguard founder interests. Tune in to protect yourself from this common challenge in the fundraising world. ----------If you're looking f

Aug 17, 2023 • 5:07

The Hustlers Journey (Thomas McLeod / Arkive - Ep 27)

The Hustlers Journey (Thomas McLeod / Arkive - Ep 27)

A lot of people say that the hustle of an entrepreneur starts long before their first business. For Thomas McLeod, 5x serial entrepreneur, this couldn't be more true. Growing up, Tom never stayed in the same place for too long. Constantly bouncing around to different schools, it got him used to being uncomfortable and facing challenge. By the time he was in middle school, Tom was already calculating profit margins off of baseball cards that he was selling to his fellow classmates. As we get dee

Aug 15, 2023 • 59:31

TBC: Putting Project Management First

TBC: Putting Project Management First

Project management - an often overlooked and unsexy aspect of fundraising. Contrary to the dramatic portrayals in movies, fundraising is essentially a series of repetitive and detailed tasks. While not brain surgery, these small actions demand attention and diligence. While it might seem like project management is 'taking away' from more glamorous business pursuits it's actually the underpinnings that form the foundation for success. Success in fundraising lies in effectively managing oneself an

Aug 10, 2023 • 4:34

TBC: What Comes First - Calm Confidence or Investor Interest?

TBC: What Comes First - Calm Confidence or Investor Interest?

One of the most common dilemmas faced by founders in the fundraising world is the chicken and egg dynamic. Much like the age-old question, founders often grapple with the challenge of needing investor interest to gain confidence and at the same time, requiring confidence to attract investor interest. Truth is in order for an investor to be confident in you, you first have to be confident in yourself. In this episode, Jason will be exploring how to implement a process in order to break free from

Aug 3, 2023 • 4:04

Breaking the Status Quo (Lolita Taub / Ganas Ventures - Ep 26)

Breaking the Status Quo (Lolita Taub / Ganas Ventures - Ep 26)

Community & representation. These are the two things that Lolita Taub, founder of Ganas Ventures has prioritized while building her fund. Most people within venture would view the way in which Lolita has built her fund as unconventional or even impossible, but that hasn't stopped her from establishing one of the strongest communities filled with minorities and other underrepresented founders who have been pushed away from the 'conventional' world of Venture Capital. So where did this drive to cr

Aug 1, 2023 • 50:25

TBC: Post Money Cap Safes have Anti-Dilution! (TBC34)

TBC: Post Money Cap Safes have Anti-Dilution! (TBC34)

We’re back on post-money cap SAFEs talk! In the previous episode, we explained what it is and how it works within the fundraising process. For this episode, Jason goes deeper as he illuminates a more specific topic: the anti-dilution provision within post-money cap SAFEs. With the evolution of the fundraising and startup worlds, many things have changed, and the rounds raised by founders are tremendously affected. This affects everyone in the process - both founders and investors. Tune in

Jan 31, 2023 • 8:29

TBC: Post Money Caps vs. Pre-money Caps (an explainer) (TBC33)

TBC: Post Money Caps vs. Pre-money Caps (an explainer) (TBC33)

Founders are often intimidated by some of the more complex fundraising concepts. One of these is the concept of post-money cap SAFE. Post-money cap SAFEs can get tricky for some founders, especially for first-timers. In this episode, Jason dives a little deep into the dynamics of this concept, along with SAFEs in general, valuations, and how it all relates to the post-money cap SAFE. Get your pens and prepare for this episode as we talk about specific examples and scenarios, concepts involve

Jan 24, 2023 • 7:45

TBC: Vulnerability in Fundraising (TBC32)

TBC: Vulnerability in Fundraising (TBC32)

We all have stories we like to keep to ourselves for many reasons. It’s uncomfortable to tell these stories because they may be a sign of weakness, a reminder of a terrible mistake, or that nobody would understand. This is why many founders tend to adopt the “fake it til they make it” attitude. This won’t work forever, though. In this episode, Jason tells a couple of stories where a founder’s vulnerability was precisely what they needed to get their investors to understand them fully. Tune

Jan 17, 2023 • 5:50

TBC: The Rollercoaster of Fundraising (TBC31)

TBC: The Rollercoaster of Fundraising (TBC31)

Entering the fundraising world is one heck of a journey - a big rollercoaster ride, to be exact. You'll face endless ups and downs, and there will be times when you don’t know what to think or feel anymore. In this episode, Jason dives into the rollercoaster that founders experience throughout their rounds. Hear about the everyday things founders encounter when raising money, how they should deal with the never-ending change of emotions, and how you can stay above things. If you need a push

Jan 10, 2023 • 4:08

TBC: Deck-Building: Note Cards (TBC30)

TBC: Deck-Building: Note Cards (TBC30)

Building decks is one of the most significant steps of preparing to fundraise. Knowing what to include and how to deliver it is key to a successful deck. Over time, people have used various tools to help them build their decks - but for Jason nothing beats this simple trick: note cards. In this episode, Jason Yeh talks about how note cards aid in the complicated deck-building process and how founders can take advantage of this tool. Find out how note cards can greatly improve your deck and h

Jan 3, 2023 • 4:39

TBC: Chase or Be Chased? (TBC29)

TBC: Chase or Be Chased? (TBC29)

Talking to investors can be gut-wrenching for founders, especially for first-timers. The anxiety of going up to someone, asking for money, and promising returns can shake founders up and cause them to lose focus. But it’s all about mindset. Are you chasing, or are you the one being chased? In this episode, Jason Yeh explains why embracing the concept of being chased is vital for founders when approaching investors. Join us as we uncover the truth behind the chase mentality in fundraising

Dec 27, 2022 • 3:46

Money Baggage in Fundraising (Shiloh Johnson / ComplYant - Ep25)

Money Baggage in Fundraising (Shiloh Johnson / ComplYant - Ep25)

Every startup business knows that aside from expertise and skills, you also need grit and resilience when starting your company. Building from the ground up takes a lot of effort, skills, and of course, money. Not everyone finds it comfortable asking for money though. Founders raise money for one common reason: to scale the company. But there are also other possible reasons - like the reality of needing a salary. Bootstrapped turned venture-backed startups know this best - specifically our

Dec 22, 2022 • 48:05

TBC: Rest (TBC28)

TBC: Rest (TBC28)

Founders heavily live in "grind culture" - working long hours and setting aside various personal parts of their lives to achieve their career goals. However, as we near the end of another year, it's important to remember that we all need a break. Take this holiday season as an opportunity to reset your mind and make your journey exciting again. In this episode, Jason Yeh talks us through the importance of getting rest in the midst of working hard for your company. He shares some stories abou

Dec 20, 2022 • 6:47

TBC: How VCs are trained (TBC27)

TBC: How VCs are trained (TBC27)

We all have to start from somewhere small, and venture capitalists are not an exception. They aren't magically "experts" in the field and know every twist and turn - VCs undergo training like the rest of us. In today's episode, Jason Yeh talks about what processes VCs go through to be considered experienced VCs who are looked up to in the industry. He covers what such training means to founders who brave the battlegrounds of raising money and responding to feedback. Tune in and discover the imp

Dec 15, 2022 • 5:26

TBC: Decks as Appetizers (TBC26)

TBC: Decks as Appetizers (TBC26)

Did anybody say appetizers? We’re all in 🤤! Appetizers are underrated and frequently overlooked, but they are no less important than the main course, don’t you think? They get people excited and look forward to the next dish. Appetizers are an excellent primer for what’s yet to come - the main course. In today’s episode, Jason Yeh talks about the appetizer in fundraising: pitch decks. Join us as Jason talks about overcoming the feeling of unworthiness when pitching, improving your decks, a

Dec 13, 2022 • 4:37

TBC: The ability to be great is everywhere but resources are not (TBC25)

TBC: The ability to be great is everywhere but resources are not (TBC25)

Being a great entrepreneur is a commitment to continuous growth, learning, and experience. There isn’t only one profile of a great entrepreneur - it can be anyone and anywhere. One that might hold back success? Lack of resources. In today’s episode, Jason Yeh talks us through the impact of having support structures and a solid network in one’s fundraising journey - and the absence of them as well. We all have that potential or spark in us. But the harsh reality is that not everyone gets to

Dec 13, 2022 • 5:05

A Bubble valuation that's not so inflated? (Bubble / Emmanuel Straschnov - Ep24)

A Bubble valuation that's not so inflated? (Bubble / Emmanuel Straschnov - Ep24)

Getting your company’s valuation right is a crucial and complex process that hugely affects the future of your company. Too high? Investors might think it’s a turnoff. Too low? You gave away too much and shot yourself in the foot. Because of ego and pride, most founders tend to pursue the highest valuation possible. Most founders but not this episode’s guest. Emmanuel Straschnov, a French entrepreneur and co-founder of Bubble, asked for a lower valuation in the seed round for his company. A

Dec 1, 2022 • 1:02:46

TBC: The Importance And Fragility Of Credibility (TBC24)

TBC: The Importance And Fragility Of Credibility (TBC24)

The key to creating a remarkable network and achieving a successful fundraise? Credibility. In this episode, Jason Yeh talks about credibility - how important and fragile it is when you are a founder looking for your investors. With everything uncertain in the startup and fundraising world, credibility is one of the few things investors predictably rely on. Tune in with this episode and find out stories about credibility, its importance, and how you can safeguard it! ---------- If you're l

Nov 29, 2022 • 5:18

TBC: Explaining "this isn't venture-backable" (TBC23)

TBC: Explaining "this isn't venture-backable" (TBC23)

Getting constructive feedback from experienced investors has always been part of any founder’s journey. When it comes to feedback, it’s vital that you accept this truth: your business is not for everyone, and that’s okay. Some will like it, some might take time to see your vision, and some will immediately reject it. In this episode, Jason Yeh talks about one of the most famous painful pieces of feedback that investors give founders: “This isn’t venture-backable.” That feedback isn’t the end

Nov 22, 2022 • 6:43

Being The Pattern (Stax / Suneera Madhani - Ep23)

Being The Pattern (Stax / Suneera Madhani - Ep23)

When you are a first-time founder and fundraiser, the first thing you’ll look for is a guide. You’ll look for successful founders in the industry you’re planning to enter, or companies that share the same vision. And most likely, you’ll look for ones that have a similar background. Like any other beginner, you need a pattern to follow. But what do you do when you don’t have a model to follow because you are actually the first person to step in that door? No guide. No patterns. No representa

Nov 17, 2022 • 1:13:05

TBC: Why in-person meetings are so valuable (TBC22)

TBC: Why in-person meetings are so valuable (TBC22)

Now that the world is slowly emerging from the pandemic that transformed our lives over the past two years, it’s about time that things go back to normal. Catching up in person, talking over coffee, meeting for dinner - it’s been a while, and a trip to Brazil for a live workshop reminded Jason why face-to-face is so important. In this episode, Jason talks about the power of holding in-person meetings. Despite the convenience that zoom meetings offer founders and investors, nothing beats the e

Nov 15, 2022 • 6:54

TBC: Eisenhower Matrix And Health Insurance (TBC21)

TBC: Eisenhower Matrix And Health Insurance (TBC21)

Prioritizing tasks during fundraising preparation is one of the essential things a founder must stay on top of. A common struggle with this is starting to work on important fundraising tasks that don’t feel urgent. In today’s episode, Jason talks about the Eisenhower matrix - a matrix that explains the different tasks you encounter, the struggle of prioritizing those tasks, and how you can deal with it all. Discover the “danger zone” in the Eisenhower Matrix of fundraising preparation and wh

Nov 8, 2022 • 4:16

The Times They Are A-Changin (Flow Club / Ricky Yean - Ep 22)

The Times They Are A-Changin (Flow Club / Ricky Yean - Ep 22)

No matter how much you plan for your fundraise, you're still bound to be challenged. Investors want to know that they're betting on a founder who knows his industry cold, has an incredible plan, and can pull it all together to create a huge outcome. However, no amount of planning could prepare the co-founder and CEO of Flow Club, Ricky Yean, for the challenge he was about to face. At the beginning of 2020, he wanted to build a consumer-social product. Unfortunately, by the time he started pre

Nov 3, 2022 • 54:04

TBC: VC Anxiety - Why am I seeing this deal? (TBC20)

TBC: VC Anxiety - Why am I seeing this deal? (TBC20)

Ever wonder what’s the first thing that comes to mind for investors when they see your deal? Aside from curiosity, anxiety creeps up on them, too. One of the biggest anxieties that cross investors' minds? “Why am I seeing this deal?” Two things they’re considering - are they seeing your deal because it came from a good source… or are they seeing your deal because it was rejected by other investors. In today’s episode, Jason gives us a peek inside the mind of investors - and how fundraisers c

Nov 1, 2022 • 5:36

Finding The ‘Right’ Problem (Othership / Robbie Bent - Ep21)

Finding The ‘Right’ Problem (Othership / Robbie Bent - Ep21)

They say the second time’s a charm - and that rings true for Robbie Bent, CEO and Co-Founder of Othership, specifically on his fundraising and founder story. Like most entrepreneurs, he had a massive drive to succeed. His mindset, however, turned out to be one of the major things holding him back from what he was really passionate about. He pushed beyond limits, and reached a point where he needed to step back. Needless to say, his first ever experience fundraising taught him basically everyt

Oct 20, 2022 • 1:01:29

TBC: The dirty secret of thesis-driven firms (TBC19)

TBC: The dirty secret of thesis-driven firms (TBC19)

Thesis-driven firms have been on the rise for the past few years. These firms have a specific area of focus - one they use as a main driver for their marketing. Because of this, some founders have a hard time in finding the “right” firm they’d want to invest in their business. But did you know there's a dirty little secret behind these theses? In today’s episode, Jason reveals a secret behind thesis-driven firms - and what you can do with that information. Find out this secret and get some

Oct 20, 2022 • 4:17

TBC: Pitch The Circle (TBC18)

TBC: Pitch The Circle (TBC18)

As founders, it’s normal to want to show investors that you are worth it - that you are an expert in your field and that your company means something. This is the main reason why a lot of founders make the mistake of overcomplicating their pitch. You try to show the value of your company without realizing that there’s unnecessary complexity attached to it. In today’s episode, Jason talks about why you should not be doing this. Find out what “pitch the circle” means, and how this relates to

Oct 20, 2022 • 3:22

Diverse Female Founders (Special Funded Ep)

Diverse Female Founders (Special Funded Ep)

Diversity hasn’t always been a major part of the world of venture capital and startups. But founders of different ethnicities, cultures, and backgrounds have started entering the market in a big way. As that’s happened, it’s been amazing to watch the ever-changing landscape of founders starting their own companies. In this special Funded episode, we look back and hear the stories of diverse founders we got to encounter the last two seasons: Erin Carpenter, Isharna Walsh, Nicole Emrani Green, a

Oct 7, 2022 • 42:14

TBC: Cold Intros vs. Warm Intros (TBC17)

TBC: Cold Intros vs. Warm Intros (TBC17)

Introductions hold incredible power in the world of fundraising. Pulling a good network together and getting to know new people takes effort and time. But you know what? It’s a hundred percent worth it. You’ll find out why in this episode, where Jason breaks down the importance of introductions - both cold and warm, and how it basically forms the backbone of early-stage fundraising. ----------If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and

May 4, 2022 • 3:45

TBC: The most famous pass ever (TBC16)

TBC: The most famous pass ever (TBC16)

Rejections. Passes. Declined proposals. These things are inevitable in any fundraising story - so as early as possible, it’s best to prepare yourself for what’s to come. Because no matter how hard you prepare and how much effort you exert, there will still be people looking at you with doubt and criticism.   In this episode, Jason tells the story of one of the most famous ‘pass’ stories ever, and how it affected the founder’s game plan in continuing forward with his journey. ----------If you're

May 2, 2022 • 3:55

TBC: Rounds are going CRAZY fast... (TBC15)

TBC: Rounds are going CRAZY fast... (TBC15)

Everybody has their own timeline. Some succeed early on their journey, while others go on for so long that they feel that success is too far away. But the thing in entrepreneurship is - you never know what to expect. Things might go your way at a very, very unexpected time. In this episode, Jason shares one of the craziest, fastest fundraising rounds that happened right before his eyes - getting a signed term sheet within just 8 days. ---------- If you're looking for more fundraising content,

Apr 29, 2022 • 4:04

TBC: Narrative strategies and why they're important (TBC14)

TBC: Narrative strategies and why they're important (TBC14)

Mastering your company’s narrative is one of the most vital things that you should have when starting any business. It’s what sets you apart from all the other competitors that are trying to solve the same problem as you do. In the world of entrepreneurship, having strategies about what and how you tell your story is necessary so you can be sure that you will really reach your target audience in the best way possible. In this episode, Jason talks about exactly that - what are these strategie

Apr 27, 2022 • 4:11

TBC: You should share your wins (TBC13)

TBC: You should share your wins (TBC13)

With all the social media platforms at our fingertips, everyone can stay updated about any and everything. People consume content on social media on a daily basis - and as we know, individuals nowadays are heavily influenced by what they see online. And as founders/fundraisers, you should definitely take advantage of this. In this episode, Jason talks about why you should post and share your wins on social media, how it benefits you, and how even small actions can create a huge impact in yo

Apr 25, 2022 • 3:36

TBC: FOMO - a helluva drug (TBC12)

TBC: FOMO - a helluva drug (TBC12)

Ever heard of a good drug? And no, what I’m talking about is probably not what you’re thinking… it’s the fear of missing out. In the eyes of founders and fundraisers, FOMO is a feeling you want potential investors to sense deeply. Curious? Tune in to this episode and hear more about the benefits of using FOMO as a strategy in getting them on board with your company. ---------- If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights aro

Apr 22, 2022 • 4:11

TBC: The mistake of over-targeting investors (TBC11)

TBC: The mistake of over-targeting investors (TBC11)

No matter how much you prepare for something, there always comes a time when you stumble and fall. Truly, mistakes are inevitable in any circumstance in our lives, but that doesn't mean we can avoid some of them through learning from other people’s experiences, right? In this episode, Jason goes into detail about one of the biggest mistakes that founders make in the process of searching for investors, and how you can avoid them. ---------- If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab

Apr 20, 2022 • 4:04

TBC: Red Flag - solution looking for problems (TBC10)

TBC: Red Flag - solution looking for problems (TBC10)

Red flags are warnings that there’s possible danger ahead - so when you see one, it’s best to turn around and change your direction. In fundraising, there are many red flags that investors look out for. We’ve already mentioned one of them in our past episodes: a company that is a solution looking for a problem. In this episode, Jason elaborates on a specific red flag he commonly sees in startups, and how you can avoid falling into that trap. ---------- If you're looking for more fundraising

Apr 18, 2022 • 2:52

TBC: Warm up meetings with investors (TBC09)

TBC: Warm up meetings with investors (TBC09)

When should you start taking meetings with investors? If you think you should wait until you’ve already started raising money to reach out, then you’ve got it quite wrong. Ever heard of warm-up meetings? If not, then you’re in for a treat! In this episode, Jason talks about the importance of getting introduced and talking to investors way before the start of your fundraising journey - and how your approach should look like. ---------- If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab m

Apr 15, 2022 • 3:35

TBC: The different roles at a VC (TBC08)

TBC: The different roles at a VC (TBC08)

Adjusting to whichever investor you’re talking to is necessary to get the most out of any conversation. Understanding where they are coming from will help you know exactly what approach to use. In the fundraising world, we all know that every single person is unique - people all have different mindsets, motivations, and end goals, all of which affect their decision-making process. In this episode, Jason expands on the connection between selling and fundraising. Knowing what type of investor yo

Apr 13, 2022 • 5:11

TBC: Fundraising like a salesperson (TBC07)

TBC: Fundraising like a salesperson (TBC07)

Selling. Fundraising. Selling. Fundraising. Are they related? What’s the connection? Is the knowledge of one a requirement for the other? In today’s episode, Jason expounds on these two concepts, and how their dynamics work together in the world of fundraising. Look out for some helpful tips that you can apply to your own fundraising process. ---------- If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money

Apr 11, 2022 • 4:02

TBC: The benefits of intense fundraise prep (TBC06)

TBC: The benefits of intense fundraise prep (TBC06)

Have you ever wondered how essential it is to put in a lot of energy and effort into a process? We sometimes focus so much on our end goal that we tend to forget that the preparation required is equally as important, and sometimes even the highlight of the entire ride. In this episode, let’s take a quick look at how important it is to focus on the entire process itself of fundraising, which, when done well, can be transformational for you as an entrepreneur. ---------- If you're looking for m

Apr 8, 2022 • 3:57

TBC: Should I stage my VC convos in tiers? (TBC05)

TBC: Should I stage my VC convos in tiers? (TBC05)

When you’re at the point of scheduling meetings with investors, that’s when you’re most likely to feel overwhelmed. Should you categorize your investors? Who should you talk to first? What if you mess up? How do you know you are doing the right thing? All these questions swamp your mind and all of a sudden, you now have tons of meetings to prepare for. But worry not! In this episode, Jason lays out a critical tip that every fundraiser should know by heart, especially new ones, when it comes t

Apr 6, 2022 • 4:19

TBC: Who should set valuation? (TBC04)

TBC: Who should set valuation? (TBC04)

There’s always a gray area when it comes to setting the valuation for a business during the fundraising process. The big question is always… WHO? Is it the fundraiser, the investor, or is it agreed between the two? What’s the basis? How is it determined? In this episode, Jason shares his take on who should set the valuations and explains why he thinks that way.  ----------  If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how

Apr 4, 2022 • 3:12

TBC: Why you should learn investor language (TBC03)

TBC: Why you should learn investor language (TBC03)

Mastering language has got to be one of the most important psychological tools anyone can utilize and benefit from - including and especially for fundraisers.Speaking and understanding the same language of people you work with can work wonders when it comes to making connections and raising funds.In this episode, Jason talks about the critical importance of learning your investors’ language and how vital it is for your process, especially if you want to win at the game of fundraising.----------

Apr 1, 2022 • 3:36

TBC: A thought on decks and appendices (TBC02)

TBC: A thought on decks and appendices (TBC02)

One of the most vital processes before facing investors is building the perfect pitch deck. There is a tough balance to find with decks.  You don’t want to be too short and  lack the information an investor needs to get excited. You also don’t want to be too long and overwhelm the reader with data.   In this episode, Jason talks about pitch decks - particularly, his favorite part of it, appendices - and why it’s an important part of your pitch deck. ----------   If you're looking for more fundra

Mar 30, 2022 • 3:41

TBC: Don't Be A Science Project (TBC01)

TBC: Don't Be A Science Project (TBC01)

Are you a problem looking for a solution, or a solution looking for a problem?Pondering on this is vital for entrepreneurs, especially for first timers who are just establishing the core of their business. While it’s easy to get lost in the world of entrepreneurship, it’s also worth it to spend time thinking about the real “why” of whatever you’re working on.In this episode, Jason talks about the difference between these two - a science project and a business.---------- If you're looking for mor

Mar 28, 2022 • 3:32

TRAILER: What is The Backchannel (TBC)

TRAILER: What is The Backchannel (TBC)

Distinct insights, actionable steps, and juicy secrets behind the closed doors of fundraising - from an insider who has experienced both investing as a VC and raising money as a founder. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur searching for ways to get started, a first-time founder looking to speed things up, or an experienced fundraiser looking for an edge - The Backchannel’s got your back. -- If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strateg

Mar 26, 2022 • 0:33

Announcement: What's New?

Announcement: What's New?

We've got some exciting news to tell! Hear the latest updates revolving around our podcast - what's new and what's to come. Stay tuned for the upcoming weeks! If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter -- If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter

Mar 24, 2022 • 1:39

Fundraising Holiday Blues (Grapevine / Emily Rasmussen - Ep20)

Fundraising Holiday Blues (Grapevine / Emily Rasmussen - Ep20)

Fundraising for software that supports charitable giving started off as a challenge for Grapevine CEO Emily Rasmussen. After unlocking the fundraising story that would gain traction, she ran into another challenge. The year-end holidays disrupted her momentum and threatened to sabotage an exciting round. Emily shares how she weathered the storm and the important lessons she learned about the impact of calendar timing when raising. ---------- If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab

Dec 8, 2021 • 48:41

If at First You Don't Succeed (Humming Homes / Adeel Malick - Ep19)

If at First You Don't Succeed (Humming Homes / Adeel Malick - Ep19)

Adeel Malick, the co-founder and CEO of Humming Homes, had the perfect background to start a company and lead a fundraise. Experience at startup studios, an MBA, and stints at top venture capital firms had him setup to knock the first fundraise for his startup out of the water. When things didn't go as planned, Adeel had to reflect, regroup, and recommit to the process to get his company the seed funding it needed to scale. ---------- If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my we

Nov 23, 2021 • 50:08

The Culture of Preemptive Rounds (Neuro-ID / Jack Alton - Ep18)

The Culture of Preemptive Rounds (Neuro-ID / Jack Alton - Ep18)

Jack Alton was a startup vet before he was recruited to join Neuro-ID as its CEO in 2016. His requirements to join included headquartering the company in Montana and building a remote first culture. Back then those pursuits were not only rare but considered flaws. 5 years later, they would be come major reasons for Canapi Ventures to preempt Neuro-ID's Series B round. ---------- If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights aro

Nov 9, 2021 • 53:49

Catching a Steady Wave 🏄 (SteadyMD / Guy Friedman - Ep17)

Catching a Steady Wave 🏄 (SteadyMD / Guy Friedman - Ep17)

In 2016, Guy Friedman was a successful startup founder with an exit. Most would think that would make raising money for his next company SteadyMD a breeze. Instead, none of his prior investors decided to back him and he was on a familiar grind to getting funding. Fast forward to 2020 and Guy was steadily growing his core business when a wave hit in the form of acceleration towards telemedicine. All of the sudden he was surfing and fundraising became a very very different experience. ----------

Oct 27, 2021 • 45:25

The Secret Science of Fundraising (REMIX: Levels / Sam Corcos - Ep16)

The Secret Science of Fundraising (REMIX: Levels / Sam Corcos - Ep16)

Our most popular Funded interview from Season 1 was an incredible 2-part episode where Sam Corcos, the CEO of levels talked about his scientific approach to fundraising. As more people ask about Sam and our episode, we decided to remix the 2 episodes into a single episode and add a fun new debrief to the update you all on how the episode content holds up nearly a year later. Read on... Much like the "secret master plan" for his company Levels, Sam Corcos openly talks about what he was abl

Oct 13, 2021 • 1:14:58

The Foreign Language of Fundraising (Cobli / Parker Treacy - Ep15)

The Foreign Language of Fundraising (Cobli / Parker Treacy - Ep15)

Parker Treacy created his first successful company in the United States without raising ventures capital. For his second company, he would need to learn two completely foreign languages to be successful as he set out to launch a company in Brazil and fundraise. Eventually, Parker became fluent in both Portuguese and the language of venture capital as he built his business Cobli and raised over $40MM dollars. ---------- If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter p

Sep 21, 2021 • 52:11

Learning the Fundraising Dance (Nude Barre / Erin Carpenter - Ep14)

Learning the Fundraising Dance (Nude Barre / Erin Carpenter - Ep14)

Erin Carpenter grew up focused on becoming an entertainer with classical training as a ballerina. Along the way, an embarrassing uniform mishap as a young dancer and continued frustrations throughout her career drove her to embrace an entrepreneurial fire that led to starting Nude Barre. For this professional dancer, learning the fundraising dance was a struggle. After 10 years of bootstrapping and failing to raise money, she finally figured out the steps and eventually raised Seed capital from

Sep 7, 2021 • 54:39

Investor Psychology 101 (Givingli / Nicole Emrani Green - Ep13)

Investor Psychology 101 (Givingli / Nicole Emrani Green - Ep13)

Nicole Emrani Green's journey from the rambunctious daughter of Persian immigrants to venture-backed CEO has had many twists and turns. Surprisingly, her first career in psychotherapy gave her some of the tools to help advance herself as a leader and successfully close a $4MM Seed round for her company Givingli. Listen to the story as she describes the way she's learned the startup ropes as an outsider and the feeling of a past funding rejection she's now grown to be proud of. ---------- If you

Aug 24, 2021 • 55:29

Stayin' Alive 🎶(Omaze / Matt Pohlson - Ep12)

Stayin' Alive 🎶(Omaze / Matt Pohlson - Ep12)

Matt Pohlson, co-founder and CEO of Omaze, has had one of the most death defying startup journeys ever. Time and time again, his company has been on the brink of death, only to be saved by Matt’s persistence and never-quit attitude. While most involved nearly running out of funds, one experience involved his own near death experience as he flatlined on an ER bed with his family surrounding him. Persistence brought him back from the brink and eventually back to Omaze where he used an even stronge

Aug 10, 2021 • 44:34

Networking hard or hardly networking? (HMBradley / Zach Bruhnke - Ep11)

Networking hard or hardly networking? (HMBradley / Zach Bruhnke - Ep11)

Zach Bruhnke, co-founder and CEO of HMBradley, had a shot at startup glory with his first fintech company Spout. After investor skepticism caused him to throw in the towel, he vowed not to have his own convictions be swayed in future companies. Zach shares how a crazy commitment to the vision with HMBradley as well as a natural approach to building relationships led to both company and fundraising success.-----If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full

Jul 27, 2021 • 1:03:33

From YC darling to fundraising powerhouse (Vanta / Christina Cacioppo - Ep10)

From YC darling to fundraising powerhouse (Vanta / Christina Cacioppo - Ep10)

For the three years between her graduation from Y-Combinator to her splashy $50MM Series A raise from Sequoia, Christina Cacioppo and her company Vanta kept a low profile. Back in 2018, they had been working in a space few people were talking about around Silicon Valley. SOC2 compliance for startups hardly got people excited. Then, almost out of nowhere, came the announcement that Vanta had raised $50MM from Sequoia Capital.  Christina shares how she got to this point and how much impact YC had

Jul 27, 2021 • 1:06:26

Good fundraising for a “good business” (ChargerHelp! / Kameale Terry - Ep09)

Good fundraising for a “good business” (ChargerHelp! / Kameale Terry - Ep09)

Kameale Terry never wanted to be an entrepreneur, but eventually a problem she saw first hand in the electric vehicle industry drew her into starting ChargerHelp! From the beginning, she was less concerned with the hype cycle of startup trends and more focused on what she describes as “good business.” This allowed her to weather the storm of confusing and sometimes conflicting startup advice and the struggle to find a lead to eventually find herself in a super oversubscribed seed round.-----If y

Jul 27, 2021 • 46:17

Funded Season 2 Trailer

Funded Season 2 Trailer

Funded Season 2 launches on July 27, 2021. Listen for a sneak preview into what to expect in this exciting new season.-----If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter

Jul 16, 2021 • 1:21

Acting like a master fundraiser (Yac /  Justin Mitchell  - Ep08)

Acting like a master fundraiser (Yac / Justin Mitchell - Ep08)

Before starting Yac, Justin Mitchell had zero network in venture capital, didn’t know the insider terms, and was based out of small town Florida. None of this would point to someday raising a Series A round of funding from a top venture capital firm, but that’s what he did.  The key he tells us was focusing on meeting the right people, building great product, and leaning on his thespian roots.-----• Remember to grab the insights pack on this episode at fundedpod.com/yac• If you're looking for mo

Feb 16, 2021 • 1:02:54

Confidence is KEY...I think? (Sora / Laura Del Beccaro - Ep07)

Confidence is KEY...I think? (Sora / Laura Del Beccaro - Ep07)

Laura Del Beccaro, the Founder of Sora, looks like the most VC-backable, first time founder ever. She went to a top university, was a software engineer at a scaled startup, and even did a stint at a top VC firm. But after pulling together an all-star pre-seed round fairly quickly, Laura found out how difficult fundraising can be when you’re no longer a “hot deal” as she tried to raise her subsequent round. Laura had to dig deep to find the confidence to unlock VC dollars even while her company’s

Feb 2, 2021 • 59:24

F&F Round: 2020 Funding Trends with Russ Heddleston of DocSend (FF01)

F&F Round: 2020 Funding Trends with Russ Heddleston of DocSend (FF01)

This is Funded's first ever Friends & Family Round! With so many listeners asking questions about things they hear in episodes or about the fundraising market in general, we decided to launch this sister show to give more insights with a little help from our friends.In this episode, Russ Heddleston the CEO of DocSend gives us a very unique view into 2020  trends via his company's recently released Startup Index Report. Russ describes how their report leverages aggregated and anonymized data of p

Jan 21, 2021 • 20:28

The Secret Science of Fundraising (Part 2 of 2 - Levels / Sam Corcos - Ep06)

The Secret Science of Fundraising (Part 2 of 2 - Levels / Sam Corcos - Ep06)

From the start of our conversation with Sam Corcos from Levels, it was obvious there was too much sauce for just one episode. In this second half of our 2-part series, Sam begins by sharing details around a large key to his success - his very large cap table. Afterwards, we discuss specifics around his approach to attracting a $12MM seed round led by Andreessen Horowitz and how newcomers to the sport of fundraising might fare employing similar tactics. We wrap this episode as we always do with a

Jan 19, 2021 • 47:03

The Secret Science of Fundraising (Part 1 of 2 - Levels / Sam Corcos - Ep05)

The Secret Science of Fundraising (Part 1 of 2 - Levels / Sam Corcos - Ep05)

Much like the "secret master plan" for his company Levels, Sam Corcos openly talks about what he was able to decipher when it comes to the science of fundraising. This is exciting because fundraising approaches have traditionally been shared with tribal knowledge, feel-based language. In this conversation, Sam talks about how how he decided to follow his training as a scientist rather than rely on fundraising folklore.  The result was a data driven process that has left even the most experienced

Jan 5, 2021 • 43:57

From rags to riches (Goodfair / Topper Luciani - Ep04 )

From rags to riches (Goodfair / Topper Luciani - Ep04 )

Have you ever heard the advice “dress for the job you want not the one you have”? For Topper Luciani, that was tough advice to follow because it meant wearing an old t-shirt from Goodwill even while asking fancy venture capitalists for millions of dollars.  In this episode, we hear how Topper learned the importance of being your authentic self while raising money and how he somehow managed to save his company after one of the most devastating curveballs in fundraising - a pulled term sheet.----I

Dec 22, 2020 • 48:23

A different type of funding and a different type of "no" (Bite / Lindsay McCormick - Ep03)

A different type of funding and a different type of "no" (Bite / Lindsay McCormick - Ep03)

Lindsay McCormick, founder of Bite Toothpaste Bits, wants you to know there are alternatives to taking venture capital. She created a multimillion dollar business and funded its growth almost entirely through customer purchases. This show is an honest discussion about the alternatives to venture capital. You’ll learn why even though Lindsay’s email inbox is full of investment offers, up till now she's turned them all away. -----If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsl

Dec 8, 2020 • 56:12

How to tell a story worth $140 million dollars (Zumper / Anthemos Georgiades Ep01)

How to tell a story worth $140 million dollars (Zumper / Anthemos Georgiades Ep01)

Anthemos Georgiades, founder of Zumper, perfected his pitch the way most founders do: through trial and error. This show is about storytelling and all the elements that go into telling the perfect fundraising story. Anthemos deals with a difficult start to his tale having to manage “signaling risk” as well missteps with his deck and an overall lack of focus on the way to raising over $140 million dollars.-----If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full o

Dec 8, 2020 • 51:07

Sex sells, but does it raise money? (Coral / Isharna Walsh - Ep02 )

Sex sells, but does it raise money? (Coral / Isharna Walsh - Ep02 )

Investors like patterns. They’re either explicitly or subconsciously motivated to back businesses that look, sound, or feel familiar and comfortable. That’s why Isharna Walsh, founder of sexual wellness app Coral, had such a daunting task. For her, raising venture capital meant guiding investors through the uncomfortable task of talking about their sex lives and convincing them to back an unfamiliar profile, a minority woman with no ivy league degrees.-----• Check out the DocSend report on the f

Dec 8, 2020 • 56:14

Coming Soon: Funded

Coming Soon: Funded

In this trailer, hear the background for what will be an amazing season of conversations that show what it takes to get a startup funded.Intriguing quotes from the founders of Zumper, Fama, TRNDS, and more tease some of the topics that will be covered.-----If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter

Oct 15, 2020 • 1:34

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