This week on Better Business, Better Life, host Debra Chantry-Taylor is joined by venture capitalist and bestselling author Ben Wiener to unpack the art and challenges of startup pitches. With only two out of ten startups likely to succeed, Ben shares how founders can stand out using his H.E.A.R.T. framework: Hypothesis, Enormous Stakes, Alternatives, Radically Different, and Team. 

From his journey in law and venture capital to writing Fever Pitch, Ben offers practical insights into what investors really want to hear and why storytelling matters as much as strategy. He explains how anticipating questions, neutralising competition early, and presenting a differentiated solution can make all the difference. 

Beyond pitching, Ben emphasises the value of active reading, empathy, and paying it forward - reminding us that business success is often rooted in doing the right thing for others. 

Whether you’re a startup founder, a leader refining your communication, or simply curious about what makes ideas resonate, this episode is packed with wisdom and actionable tools. 

CONNECT WITH DEBRA:         

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►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner 

►Connect with Debra: ⁠[email protected] ⁠ 

►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/       

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GUESTS DETAILS: 

► Jumpspeed Ventures Website 

► Books by Ben Wiener 

► Ben Wiener - LinkedIn 

Episode 237 Chapters:   

00:00 – Introduction 

00:50 – Venture Capital and Entrepreneurial Journey   

03:14 – Challenges and Successes in Venture Capital   

05:58 – The Concept of “Fever Pitch”   

10:48 – The H.E.A.R.T Framework   

51:08 – Practical Applications and Benefits of the Framework 

52:49 – Ben’s Investment Philosophy and Personal Insights 

53:04 – Advice for Entrepreneurs and Business Leaders