Nothing Ventured

By Aarish Shah - EmergeONE

In conversation with the people who make the start-up world go round. Join Aarish Shah as he talks to founders, investors, and operators across the tech and venture ecosystem exploring some of the les... more

FAQs about Nothing Ventured:

How many episodes does Nothing Ventured have?

The podcast currently has 236 episodes available.

Nothing Ventured episodes:

January 30, 2025 Jefff Crusey: When Mythology Breaks Reality in Venture | Episode 59
In this episode of Nothing Ventured, host Aarish Shah welcomes Jeff Crusey, a partner at 7% Ventures and seasoned VC with extensive experience in deep tech and startups. The discussion explores the limits of software functionality and usability, the implications of the UK’s approach to de-risking venture investments, and whether US VCs are fostering monopolies. Jeff shares insights on the impact of SEIS and EIS on UK VC numbers and contrasts rent-seeking behaviours with genuine value production in the business landscape. They also debate the necessity of new neobanks and question the concentrated power within the US VC industry. Finally, Jeff expresses his contrarian view on space exploration, arguing against sending people to Mars. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on the current state and future of venture capital.
00:00:00 - Introduction to Jeff Crusey
Welcome to the episode featuring Jeff Crusey, partner at 7% Ventures, discussing his background and expertise in deep tech.
00:02:01 - The Evolution of Deep Tech
Exploring why deep tech is gaining popularity now and comparing investment approaches in the UK and US.
00:05:36 - Mindset Differences in VC
Discussing the abundance versus scarcity mindset in US and UK venture capital.
00:08:18 - Challenges for UK Founders
Examining the risk aversion in the UK VC landscape and its impact on founders.
00:10:21 - The Flight of Talent
Concerns about UK founders leaving for the US and the implications for the local ecosystem.
00:12:13 - First Principles Thinking in VC
Jeff's frustrations with the lack of first principles thinking in the US VC ecosystem.
00:14:06 - FOMO and Market Dynamics
The influence of FOMO on investment decisions and the implications for startups.
00:15:51 - Capital as a Moat in Deep Tech
Discussing the importance of capital in deep tech and the challenges in the UK and Europe.
00:19:11 - The Role of Government Funding
Analysing the impact of SEIS and EIS on the UK VC landscape and the need for a clearer picture.
00:20:05 - Comparing Sovereign Wealth Funds
The differences between government-backed funds in the UK and Europe versus the US.
00:22:00 - Rent-Seeking vs. Value Production
Differentiating between rent-seeking companies and those that produce real value.
00:24:30 - The Neobank Phenomenon
Critiquing the proliferation of neobanks and their actual value proposition.
00:27:10 - US vs. UK Banking Systems
Comparing the banking landscape in the US and UK, and questioning the need for more neobanks.
00:29:18 - Concerns About VC Consolidation
Discussing the implications of VC consolidation and the potential for cartel-like behaviour.
00:31:12 - The Mythology of VC
Exploring how the narrative around VCs can distort reality and impact investment decisions.
00:34:31 - The Role of Founders in Value Creation
Highlighting the importance of founders in creating value, rather than VCs taking centre stage.
00:36:11 - Contrarian Conviction: Mars Exploration
Jeff's belief that sending humans to Mars is not sensible and the case for robotic exploration instead.
00:40:07 - The Future of Automation
Discussing the potential for fully automated manufacturing and the implications for human labor.
00:45:39 - Conclusion and Where to Find Jeff
Wrapping up the conversation and sharing where to connect with Jeff Crusey online.
Find Jeff online at:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffcrusey/
Twitter: http://www.x.com/@JeffCrusey
Web: https://www.7pc.vc/
This episode is sponsored by EmergeOne, fractional CFOs for venture backed tech startups from Seed to Series B.
Get in touch at https://emergeone.co.uk/contact-us/ or join the CFO team at https://emergeone.co.uk/join-the-cfo-team/
Sign up for EmergeOne’s weekly newsletter, Off Balance at https://off-balance.beehiiv.com/subscribe
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47min
December 26, 2024 Kristina Barger: An Interdisciplinary Approach to Founder Mental Health | Episode 58
In this episode of Nothing Ventured, host Aarish Shah welcomes cognitive and behavioural scientist Kristina Barger . With a diverse background in clinical psychology, tech innovation, and entrepreneurship, Christina shares her insights on the unique challenges faced by founders. The discussion delves into the traits of overachievers, the fine line between ambition and perfectionism, and the common misconception that confidence equates to competence. Christina emphasises the importance of maintaining a balanced life outside of business, highlighting the necessity of social connections and hobbies. Additionally, she discusses her work on ethical AI initiatives in mental health and the significance of decision-making in high-stakes environments. Tune in for valuable perspectives on navigating the entrepreneurial journey.
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1h 10min
December 19, 2024 Uzma Choudry: Building a Unique European BioTech Ecosystem | Episode 57
In this episode of Nothing Ventured, host Aarish Shah welcomes Dr. Uzma Choudry, an expert in deep tech and biotech investing. Uzma shares her extensive experience in developing the European tech bio ecosystem, including her role in managing a portfolio of over one and a half billion pounds at one of Europe's largest funds. The conversation delves into the current state of the life sciences venture market, highlighting the recent debloating of the venture bubble and the withdrawal of generous capital. Uzma explains the unique challenges in biotech, where the focus is primarily on de-risking technology and science rather than immediate revenue scaling. She emphasises the necessity for deep pools of capital in biotech investments and discusses how platform companies can showcase their value through their assets. Tune in for insights on sustainable growth and commercialization in the life sciences sector.
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53min
December 12, 2024 Chris Donegan: The Investor's Dilemma: Understanding Complex Investments | Episode 56
In this episode of Nothing Ventured, host Aarish Shah welcomes seasoned investor and entrepreneur Chris Donegan. With a rich background in molecular neurobiology and business strategy, Chris shares his insights on the current state of innovation and investment. The conversation explores whether the present and future are more promising than the past, and delves into the ongoing industrial revolutions—highlighting the transition into the AI age. Chris discusses the nuances of investing in advanced technologies, questioning whether a deep technical understanding, such as knowledge of qubits for quantum computing or molecular biology for biotech, is necessary for successful investment. Tune in for valuable perspectives on adapting to change and unlocking value through intellectual property in today's rapidly evolving landscape.
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59min
December 09, 2024 Hannah Meiton: Navigating The Nordics | Episode 55
In this episode of Nothing Ventured, host Arish Shah welcomes Hannah Meiton, founding partner at Ampli Ventures, a venture capital firm based in Stockholm that specializes in early-stage investments in Nordic B2B SaaS companies. Hannah shares her insights on the importance of founders actively promoting their businesses, emphasizing that simply building a great product is not enough. She discusses the tendency of Nordic startups to undersell themselves and the importance of visibility in the early stages of development. Additionally, Hannah reflects on her experience in scaling businesses and how that informs her investment philosophy, advocating for a hands-on approach to help companies transition from founder-led operations to sustainable, scalable enterprises. The conversation also touches on the potential shift in venture capital towards more concentrated portfolios, reducing reliance on a few key companies for fund returns. Tune in for valuable insights into the evolving landscape of venture capital and the vital role of sales in a founder's journey.
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43min
November 28, 2024 Ashwin Ravikumar: Lessons on Tech Transfer from CERN | Episode 54
Timestamps:
01:18 - Sellotape as an x-ray generator.
04:12 - Science as universal language.
09:22 - Pursuit of knowledge in science.
12:24 - University tech transfer challenges.
14:58 - Tech transfer at CERN.
20:08 - Altruistic mission of CERN.
22:12 - University equity in startups.
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50min
November 21, 2024 Rishabh Kaul: Buiding the India-Europe Tech Corridor | Episode 53
00:02:25 - South Asian tech professionals' impact.
00:05:06 - Indian entrepreneurs in Europe.
00:08:21 - Indians in technology leadership.
00:12:36 - Immigration and technology's future.
00:17:26 - India-Europe tech corridor opportunities.
00:21:30 - European talent for Indian companies.
00:24:10 - Talent acquisition and market dynamics.
00:29:18 - Highlighting successful Indian founders.
00:30:22 - European PR challenges in startups.
00:34:14 - Healthcare recruitment innovation.
00:38:49 - Cross-border investment strategies.
00:44:34 - Cultural identity and assimilation.
00:47:20 - Unique challenges for immigrants.
00:51:04 - Competitive nature of the diaspora.
00:56:18 - Second-time founders buying companies.
00:57:25 - Venture capital and business success.
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1h
November 14, 2024 Afshin Moayed: Why Bangladesh is the best kept secret in venture
[00:00:42] Climate refugees in Bangladesh.
[00:04:09] Investing in emerging markets.
[00:08:01] Bangladesh's unique growth potential.
[00:12:10] Bangladesh's investment landscape challenges.
[00:17:31] Indian VCs and Bangladesh opportunities.
[00:20:49] Cultural dynamics in emerging markets.
[00:25:04] Climate adaptation in Bangladesh.
[00:30:05] Barriers to climate-friendly solutions.
[00:32:08] Younger population's consumption awareness.
[00:36:00] Value perception in emerging markets.
[00:39:18] Sand battery technology in Vietnam.
[00:43:28] Grocery delivery business models.
[00:48:34] Grocery shopping in DACA traffic.
[00:52:40] Personal shopper experience online.
[00:56:01] Embracing mistakes as strengths.
[00:58:46] Connecting on LinkedIn.
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1h
November 07, 2024 Fred Destin: Crafting Meaningful Relationships in Venture (Part 2) | Episode 52
In this special two-part episode of "Nothing Ventured," host Arish Shah sits down with Fred Destin, founder of Stride VC. They delve into the evolving dynamics between founders and venture capitalists, highlighting the surprising discontent founders often feel towards VCs. Fred shares insights from his extensive experience, including his time as a general partner at Accel and Accomplice, where he led investments in companies like Deliveroo and Zoopla. The discussion covers the importance of empathy in the founder journey, the concept of minimalist boards, and how VCs can genuinely support their portfolio companies. They explore the balance of skill and luck in venture investing, the significance of entry price, and the current state of the venture capital landscape. Fred emphasizes the need for VCs to adopt a beginner's mindset and to move beyond lazy thinking, encouraging a more human approach to investing. Join us for an enlightening conversation that challenges conventional perspectives in the venture capital ecosystem.
[00:03:05] VCs as human beings.
[00:06:06] Self-awareness in board dynamics.
[00:09:10] Self-awareness in challenging situations.
[00:12:57] The process adds value.
[00:17:14] Digital noise and authenticity.
[00:19:10] Real-time information challenges.
[00:24:47] Empathy for the founder's journey.
[00:30:07] The art of listening.
[00:32:54] AI's impact on job identity.
[00:34:43] The pursuit of happiness.
[00:37:42] The challenges of venture capital.
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41min
October 31, 2024 Fred Destin: On the Craft of Venture (Part 1) | Episode 50
In this special two-part episode of "Nothing Ventured," host Aarish Shah sits down with Fred Destin, founder of Stride VC, to explore the evolving landscape of venture capital. They discuss the complex relationship between founders and VCs, highlighting the discontent many founders feel towards traditional venture capital approaches. Fred shares insights from his extensive experience, including his successful investments in companies like Deliveroo and Zoopla, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding in the VC-founder dynamic.The conversation delves into key topics such as the significance of minimalist boards, the adaptability required in venture capital, and the balance of skill and luck in making investment decisions. Fred also reflects on the Cambrian explosion in the venture space, the necessity for VCs to embrace a beginner's mindset, and the dangers of lazy thinking. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that challenges conventional VC wisdom and offers a fresh perspective on what it means to be a supportive partner for founders.
Timestamps:
00:00:10 - Meet Fred Destin: A Venture Capitalist's Journey00:00:43 - Founders' Discontent with VCs00:01:05 - The Importance of Minimalist Boards00:01:37 - Navigating the Founder-VC Relationship00:02:34 - The Role of Trust in Board Dynamics00:03:27 - The Quality of Conversations in Board Meetings00:04:44 - The Dichotomy of Operators as VCs00:05:44 - The Role of Accountability in Board Membership00:06:49 - Empathy and Support for Founders00:08:28 - The Importance of Strategic Conversations00:09:42 - Building Effective Board Relationships00:10:34 - The Role of a Board Member00:11:06 - Creating a Supportive Board Environment00:12:05 - Understanding the Founder’s Perspective00:12:27 - The Need for a Strong Board00:13:40 - The Importance of Trust and Empathy00:14:15 - The Role of a Board in Difficult Times00:15:04 - The Founder’s Identity and Company Success00:16:09 - The Craft of Venture Capital00:17:37 - The Art of Decision-Making in Venture00:18:53 - The Balance of Skill and Luck in Outcomes00:20:18 - The Importance of Supporting Founders00:21:00 - The Role of a VC Beyond Investment00:22:39 - The Impact of Board Composition on Success00:23:50 - The Need for Effective Communication00:25:18 - The Importance of Preparation for Board Meetings00:26:05 - The Founder-VC Relationship Beyond the Board00:27:34 - Navigating Personal Challenges as a Founder00:29:09 - The Role of Trust in Personal Struggles00:30:34 - The Founder’s Responsibility to the Company00:32:00 - The Journey vs. The Outcome00:33:50 - The Craft of Venture: An Artisanal Approach00:35:03 - Building the Craft of Venture Capital00:37:08 - The Importance of Adaptability in Venture00:39:24 - The Role of Decision-Making in Venture Success00:40:49 - The Impact of Strategic Decisions on Company Growth00:42:00 - The Value of Support in the Venture Ecosystem00:43:55 - Conclusion: Reflecting on the Venture Journey
Find Fred online at:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/freddestin/Twitter: https://x.com/fdestinStride: https://stride.vc/You can follow Aarish and Nothing Ventured on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adsinuk/ | https://www.linkedin.com/company/nothing-ventured-podcast/Twitter: https://x.com/adsinuk | https://x.com/NVPodThis episode is sponsored by EmergeOne, fractional CFOs for venture backed tech startups from Seed to Series B.Get in touch at https://emergeone.co.uk/contact-us/ or join the CFO team at https://emergeone.co.uk/join-the-cfo-team/Sign up for EmergeOne’s weekly newsletter, Off Balance at https://off-balance.beehiiv.com/subscribe
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1h 4min

FAQs about Nothing Ventured:

How many episodes does Nothing Ventured have?

The podcast currently has 236 episodes available.

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The Twenty Minute VC (20VC): Venture Capital | Startup Funding | The Pitch

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Nothing Ventured

FAQs about Nothing Ventured:

How many episodes does Nothing Ventured have?

Nothing Ventured episodes:

FAQs about Nothing Ventured:

How many episodes does Nothing Ventured have?

More shows like Nothing Ventured

The Twenty Minute VC (20VC): Venture Capital | Startup Funding | The Pitch