In this episode of Inside CVC, we’re joined by David Homan, author of Orchestrating Connection, for a wide-ranging conversation on why trust, gratitude, and intentional community building are no longer “soft skills,” but strategic advantages in corporate venture capital and M&A.

Drawing from more than a decade of building a global, high-trust network spanning family offices, venture capital, private equity, and corporate leadership, David challenges the transactional mindset that dominates deal-making today. He argues that the biggest failures in CVC and M&A often stem from ignoring relationships—while the biggest wins are unlocked by honoring the chain of connection behind every opportunity.

We explore why leaders who prioritize curiosity and vulnerability make better long-term decisions, how communities function as strategic “current” rather than static structures, and why boards should treat trusted relationships with the same rigor as capital allocation. Along the way, David shares real stories from the worlds of venture investing, corporate strategy, and global leadership that illustrate how connection can de-risk bold bets—and why cutting out the connector often costs more than leaders realize.

This is a conversation for CEOs, board members, CVC leaders, and operators navigating complexity, uncertainty, and transformation—where who you trust may matter more than what you buy.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode

• Why **relationships—not assets—often determine the success or failure of M&A and CVC bets
• How honoring the chain of connection builds trust, access, and long-term advantage
• The difference between transactional capital and community-driven value creation
• Why curiosity and vulnerability are underutilized leadership strengths in boardrooms
• How trusted communities act as a strategic hedge during periods of disruption
• What corporate leaders miss when they prioritize speed over integrity in deal-making
• A simple, practical ritual leaders can use immediately to strengthen trust and influence

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