Not every investor “no” means the same thing. In this episode, learn the real and often unspoken reasons behind VC rejections, from dry powder issues to bias, internal politics, and off-thesis fits. Discover how to read the signals, qualify investors early, and focus your energy where a “yes” is actually possible.

Every time a founder shares a new business idea, they face three distinct personas: the skeptic, the supporter, and the silent observer.

Each one interprets the pitch differently, each one shapes its future. In this episode, we break down how to recognize these personas, decode what they really need to hear, and tailor your message to turn resistance into momentum.

Whether you are refining a pitch deck, testing a concept, or persuading early investors, you will learn the psychology behind first impressions and the conversational tactics that move ideas forward.

Thinking of raising your first angel round? Don’t hit send on that pitch deck just yet. In this episode, we break down the 10 questions every founder must answer before fundraising — from cap table traps and red flags to the narrative investors actually buy. Tactical, no-fluff guidance to help you raise like a second-time founder (even if it’s your first time).

From Capital to Catalyst: Activating Angel Investors

In this episode of The Startup Leap, we unpack Openseed VC’s view on how founders can get more than money from their angel investors.

From warm intros and GTM feedback to pitch coaching and customer access, angels can be powerful early-stage partners if activated strategically.

Learn how to make specific asks, gain honest insight, and turn early checks into real momentum.

🎧 Tune in to discover how to think beyond the check and build smarter with your angel network.

How should co-founders split equity?

We gathered insights from experienced founders who shared what they would have done differently if they could go back.

Should equity be split equally, or does it depend on factors like early risk-taking, leadership responsibility, and initial capital contributions? We explore various approaches, from equal splits fostering alignment to weighted allocations reflecting accountability and long-term commitment.

Key topics include:

✅ Why equal splits can work—but when they might not

✅ The impact of co-founder dilution versus investor dilution

✅ Why a founder vesting agreement is like a “prenup” for your startup

✅ The weight of leadership responsibility in equity allocation

✅ How to handle founder exits and cap table changes

If you're a founder, investor, or startup operator, this episode will give you a fresh perspective on structuring equity in a way that aligns incentives and sets your company up for long-term success.

🎧 Tune in now to listen---

About OpenSeed VC

This episode is powered by OpenSeed VC, a fund that writes first checks into experienced operators turned founders. OpenSeed doesn’t just invest—it provides founders with a network of seasoned operators who’ve built, scaled, and exited companies before, helping you go from zero to one.

📩 Want more guidance? OpenSeed VC offers office hours and funding opportunities.

👉 Learn more at www.openseed.vc

🎧 Subscribe & Stay Connected!

Keeping investors in the loop isn’t just a formality—it’s a key part of building trust and securing future support. In this episode, we break down how to craft effective investor updates that keep stakeholders engaged and aligned with your startup’s progress.

Key Takeaways:

- Consistency is Key – Regular updates e.g., newsletters keep investors engaged

- Simple & Clear – Focus on key metrics like customer growth, revenue, and financial health

- Be Transparent – Share both wins and challenges to build credibility

- Ask for Help – Investors can provide value beyond capital, so make specific requests

- Protect Sensitive Information – Be mindful of confidentiality while sharing progress

Tune in for a deep dive on how to create updates that strengthen investor relationships.

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About OpenSeed VC

This episode is powered by OpenSeed VC, a fund that writes first checks into experienced operators turned founders. OpenSeed doesn’t just invest—it provides founders with a network of seasoned operators who’ve built, scaled, and exited companies before, helping you go from zero to one.

📩 Want more guidance? OpenSeed VC offers office hours and funding opportunities.

👉 Learn more at www.openseed.vc

🎧 Subscribe & Stay Connected!

New episodes drop at least once a month!

As a founder, you’ll get a lot of advice (including ours)—sometimes conflicting, sometimes overwhelming.

So how do you know what to follow and what to ignore? In this episode, we break down how to evaluate advice effectively and make the best decisions for your startup.

Key Takeaways:

- Context Matters – Advice isn’t one-size-fits-all; consider your startup’s unique situation

- Evaluate the Source – Who is giving the advice, and what’s their experience?

- Watch for Biases – Investors, mentors, and peers may have different incentives

- Consider Exceptions – Not every rule applies in every case—your startup might be different

- Hindsight Can Skew Advice – Success and failure stories often oversimplify what really happened

- Trust Your Instincts – Experiment, adapt, and stay true to your vision while using advice as a guide

Tune in for insights on how to filter advice and make smarter, founder-led decisions.

About OpenSeed VC

This episode is powered by OpenSeed VC, a fund that writes first checks into experienced operators turned founders. OpenSeed doesn’t just invest—it provides founders with a network of seasoned operators who’ve built, scaled, and exited companies before, helping you go from zero to one.

📩 Looking for more guidance? OpenSeed VC offers office hours and funding opportunities.

👉 Learn more at [www.openseed.vc](http://www.openseed.vc)

🎧 Subscribe & Stay Connected!

New episodes drop at least once a month!

Pitching to investors isn’t just about presenting your startup—it’s about answering the right questions in a way that builds confidence.

In this episode, we break down five key questions investors ask and what they’re really looking for in your responses. Listen in for insights on how to craft compelling answers that set you apart.

Key Takeaways:

- Your Founder Story – Investors want to see passion and a clear reason why you are the right person to build this

- Your Progress So Far – Demonstrate rapid execution and meaningful traction

- The Competitive Landscape – Show you understand your market and how you’ll win

- Your Long-Term Vision – Clearly articulate an ambitious, venture-scale opportunity

- Your Questions for Investors – Engage meaningfully and show genuine interest in the partnership

Tune in for a deeper dive on these questions, and what investors look out for in answers.

About OpenSeed VC

This episode is powered by OpenSeed VC, a fund that writes first checks into experienced operators turned founders. OpenSeed doesn’t just invest—it provides founders with a network of seasoned operators who’ve built, scaled, and exited companies before, helping you go from zero to one.

📩 Want more insights? Join OpenSeed VC’s office hours or apply for funding.

👉 Check out more at www.openseed.vc

🎧 Subscribe & Stay Connected!

New episodes drop at least once a month!

Due diligence can feel daunting for early-stage founders, but understanding the process is key to securing funding.

In this episode, we break down what pre-seed investors look for and how to prepare effectively. Listen in for practical insights to strengthen your fundraising approach.

Key Takeaways:

- Early-Stage Due Diligence is Different – Investors focus on team strength, market traction, and vision, not just financials

- Key Documents Matter – Be prepared with team bios, financial projections, cap tables, legal structure, and proof of traction

- Showcase Potential Over Performance – Unlike late-stage rounds, early investors bet on execution ability and adaptability

- Clarity is Crucial – A well-articulated vision can make or break investor confidence

Tune in for a detailed breakdown on how to navigate due diligence with confidence.

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About OpenSeed VC

This episode is powered by OpenSeed VC, a fund that writes first checks into experienced operators turned founders. OpenSeed doesn’t just invest—it provides founders with a network of seasoned operators who’ve built, scaled, and exited companies before, helping you go from zero to one.

👉 Check out more insights at www.openseed.vc

🎧 Subscribe & Stay Connected!

New episodes drop at least once a month!

In this episode, we debunk common fundraising myths and highlight key strategies to navigate the process effectively.

Listen in for practical insights that will help you set the right expectations and approach fundraising with confidence.

Key Takeaways:

Similar Portfolio Companies Don’t Guarantee Investment – Investors look for fit, not just industry overlaps and if they've invested in a similar company, they're likely not to invest in yours.

A Term Sheet Isn’t Secured Funding – Understand what happens after you get one

Founders Must Engage Directly with Investors – Even junior team members can be key decision-makers

Don’t Rely Solely on Professional Advisors – They can help, but investor relationships matter more

A Lead Investor Isn’t Always Step One – Building momentum first can be a better strategy

Avoid High Minimum Investment Thresholds – It can limit interest from early backers

Fundraising Takes Time – It will impact operations, so plan accordingly

Tune in for deeper insights on navigating the fundraising landscape strategically.

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About OpenSeed VC

This episode is powered by OpenSeed VC, a fund that writes first checks into experienced operators turned founders. OpenSeed doesn’t just invest—it provides founders with a network of seasoned operators who’ve built, scaled, and exited companies before, helping you go from zero to one.

👉 Check out more insights at www.openseed.vc

🎧 Subscribe & Stay Connected!

New episodes drop at least once a month!