Jay Kapoor is combining venture capital and storytelling to help visionary founders achieve maximum impact. Jay noticed that while it was easier than ever to start a business, that made it harder than ever for individual companies to get noticed. How could founders get the world to see their unique vision for a better future? The answer was simple, but not easy – tell a compelling story. So, he and co-founder Vijay Chattha created VSC Ventures, a venture capital firm that invests in early-stage climate tech and automation startups, using the power of storytelling to help them stand out. 

Hear Jay talk about the importance of curiosity and empathy, what the NFL’s international games can teach us about growing a brand, and why every good business starts with a really good story. 

As you’ll hear, we had so much fun talking with Jay, we convinced him to do a second episode, so stick around for part two next week. 

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Jay Kapoor on the importance of asking “Why now?” in storytelling 

00:52 Conor Gaughan introduces Jay Kapoor and VSC Ventures

06:37 Multicultural background and perspective on sustainability

23:23 Finance, NFL Europe, and marketing funnels

31:31 The idea for VSC Ventures and crafting a good pitch

44:53 Optimism, return on investment, and defining impact

54:03 What’s next – part two of our conversation 

56:38 End credits 

More on VSC Ventures and Jay Kapoor:

• vscventures.com/portfolio 
• linkedin.com/company/vsc-ventures/ 
• linkedin.com/in/jaykapoor/ OR twitter.com/JayKapoorNYC 
• Jay’s podcast: CLIMB by VSC

Connect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and instagram.com/ckgone 

Here’s the link to Joseph Campbell’s book, which both Conor and Jay mention: The Hero With A Thousand Faces.

If you liked this episode, listen next to Matt Rogers of Mill Industries on Food Waste, Impactful Product Design, and Innovation

Also check out these episodes featuring folks Jay and Conor mentioned in their conversation:

• Rick Fox of Partanna on Sustainable Construction and Creating Winning Teams
• Roger McClendon of Green Sports Alliance on Green Sports Day and Sustainability In Sports

Have questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected]

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference! 

Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.