What separates companies that survive from those that become category leaders?
In this episode of Midnight Founders, we sit down with Stephen Smith and Thomas Wilkinson, the leaders behind Ollin Ventures, a Utah-based venture capital firm investing in the next generation of AI-native startups. As founders, operators, and investors, Steve and Thomas bring a unique perspective on what it takes to build enduring companies in today's rapidly changing business landscape.
We discuss how Ollin evaluates founders, why they believe the future belongs to AI-native businesses, the biggest mistakes early-stage entrepreneurs make, and what separates fundable ideas from scalable companies. They also share lessons from working with dozens of startups, raising capital, navigating uncertainty, and building businesses that create lasting value.
Whether you're launching your first venture, raising capital, or simply fascinated by the startup world, this conversation offers an inside look at how successful founders think, execute, and grow.
Tune in for an insightful discussion on entrepreneurship, venture capital, AI, and the mindset required to build something that lasts.
