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The Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #41: Investor to Fund Manager, Picking the RIGHT Capital, Seed Is Experiencing A CrisisThis week on The Learning Corner, we dive into the evolving reality of seed-stage venture capital.
We kick things off with takeaways from the Superclusters podcast, where the team at Screendoor shares what LPs are really looking for in emerging fund managers today. Charles reflects on how the role of a fund manager shifts as firms scale, and what skills matter most beyond just investing.
Next, we unpack a thoughtful post by Halfdays founder Ariana Ferwerda on how founders should approach choosing investors. We discuss the subtle red flags that surface post-term sheet and what questions can help founders protect...2025-07-2425 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #40: Windsurf "Blitzhire", Demystifying Venture Speak, Founders Running "Fast and Loose"In this episode of The Learning Corner, Mia Farnham and Charles Hudson dig into three big conversations lighting up the venture world:
đĽ First, we break down the Windsurf âBlitzhireâ sagaâwhy a $3B OpenAI deal fell apart, how Google swooped in with a $2.4B licensing play, and what this trend of acqui-hire-meets-IP deals means for the future of AI M&A.
đ Then, we turn to Sergio Rodenzuelaâs recent post demystifying how VC really works for early foundersâfrom fundraising realities to the quiet pivots firms make behind the scenes.
đď¸ And finally, we reflect on Jared Hechtâs wild early fundraising tales from...2025-07-1722 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #39: Adopting Parent Investors, The Art of Curating Fund Manager Investment Opportunities, AI Product Pricing TodayWelcome back to The Learning Corner by Precursor, hosted by Mia Farnham and Charles Hudson. After a quick break for the Fourth of July, weâre back with a jam-packed episode covering some of the most thought-provoking conversations in early-stage venture.
In this episode:
We explore the concept of the adopting parent investor, how VCs can step into existing board relationships with thoughtfulness, transparency, and full commitment, based on Micah Rosenbloomâs recent reflection on partnering with founders after transitions.
We unpack a dense and valuable discussion from The Peel between Samir Kaji and Turner Novak on fundraising, secondary dynamics, and...2025-07-1023 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #38: First Round Capital Reflections and How Fundraising and Seeking an Acquisition Opportunity Are Mutually ExclusiveIn this weekâs episode of The Learning Corner, Mia Farnham and Charles Hudson dive into two thought-provoking pieces on modern venture capital and founder decision-making under pressure.
First, we unpack Uncappedâs interview with Josh Kopelman of First Round Capital. From the âBlackstoneification of Ventureâ to his tongue-in-cheek âVenture Arrogance Score,â Kopelman challenges conventional thinking around fund scale, relevance, and value creation. We also touch on secondaries, post-mortems, and what it means to run a venture firm like an operating company.
Then we turn to a sharp LinkedIn post by Rohit Mittal on the tough calls founders must make when stuck b...2025-06-2620 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #37: Bill Gurley's Market Realities, Geo- Arbitrage Investing, The Acquihire WaveThis week on The Learning Corner by Precursor:
Reflections from Invest Like the Bestâs episode featuring Bill Gurley. From zombie unicorns to misaligned fund incentives, Gurley addresses the long arc of staying private and the system-wide pressures created by illiquidity, consensus strategies, and overcapitalization.
We dig into Alex Lazarowâs post on how Chime borrowed elements from international fintech giants like Nubank and Toss and what it means to apply lessons from one market to another. What makes geo-arbitrage work, and why hasnât live commerce, which has seen major success in China, taken off in the U.S.?
Finall...2025-06-2019 min
Fearless ImpactInside the Room: Women Pitching AI with PurposeIâve always said the most powerful rooms arenât the loudest - theyâre the most intentional. And this Women in AI Pitch Tank was one of those rooms.In this episode, youâll hear from three incredible founders using AI to solve real problems with clarity, conviction, and heart. They pitched live and received direct feedback from some of the most thoughtful women in venture: Stephanie Mouchbahani-Constance (KLI Capital), Mia Farnham (Precursor Ventures), and Veda Patel (Conductive Ventures).We talked about building with purpose, fundraising without fluff, and why conversations like these need to happe...2025-06-1352 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #36: Founder Optimism, Seed Math Is Broken, Aumni Venture Beacon ReportIn this weekâs episode of The Learning Corner, recorded in person during Precursorâs team onsite in San Francisco, Mia Farnham and Charles Hudson dive into the following topics:
Embracing Optimism in Venture
Inspired by a recent essay from Collin and Joshua Wallace, we explore the often-overlooked value of modeling best-case scenarios. While founders and investors are trained to anticipate risk, we ask: what would it look like to plan with optimism, and why is that mindset essential to long-term success?
Bill Gurley on the Broken Math of Seed
We break down Hadley Harrisâ viral thread and Bill Gurleyâs respon...2025-06-1219 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #35: A Founder's Postmortem, Teachers And The AI Dilemma, Emerging GTM Across AIIn this episode of The Learning Corner by Precursor, Mia Farnham and Charles Hudson explore the emotional rollercoaster faced by startup founders, shedding light on the prevalence of burnout and the implications of startup culture on personal well-being. They delve into the role of AI in education, discussing both the hurdles and opportunities it presents. The conversation broadens to the global repercussions of AI transformation and its influence on venture capital dynamics. Additionally, they examine the business models and inherent challenges confronting AI companies.
The startup postmortem Iâve been avoiding by Quinn Wang
Teachers are note OK by Ja...2025-06-0521 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #34: AIâs Labor Problem, Bridge Round Realities & Big Techâs Acqui-License DealsIn this episode of The Learning Corner by Precursor, hosts Mia Farnham and Charles Hudson dive into the weekâs most thought-provoking articles and trends shaping tech, venture capital, and the future of work.
They explore the growing tension between AI advancement and labor displacement, discussing how automation is reshaping entry-level jobs and what it means for the next generation of workers. The conversation also unpacks the realities behind âbridge roundsâ in startup fundingâwhen they work, when they donât, and what founders and investors should consider before doubling down.
Finally, Mia and Charles break down the DOJâs antitrust in...2025-05-2919 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #33: Do $1B Outcomes Matter?, Vibe Investing, The Agentic Web and The Original SinThis week, Mia, Charles and Leon break down three timely topics shaping the future of venture and technology:
VC Exit Math is Changing: David Clark (VenCap) expands on Packy McCormickâs analysis of billion-dollar exits, showing how top-tier venture returns are moving from $1B to $20B+ outcomes. We explore what this shift means for fund pacing, graduation rates, and why mid-sized funds are feeling the squeeze.
âVibe Investingâ & Perishable Knowledge: Collin Wallace (Lobby Capital) dives into AIâs impact on investor behavior and startup creation. We talk about the limits of pattern recognition, the risk of thesis mimicry, and why real con...2025-05-2220 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #32: Is AI Coming For Your Job?, Myths About AI Native Startups, Specialist vs. Generalist InvestingIn this episode we unpack three topics across the VC/Startup ecosystem:
AI Is Coming for Jobs, And CEOs Are Finally Saying It:
Fiverr CEO Micha Kaufman recently published one of the most candid memos weâve seen, acknowledging AIâs very real disruption of the gig economy. We talk about what happens when leaders stop spinning AI as pure efficiency, and start confronting whatâs being lost.
The Myth of the AI-Native Startup:
Why are so many âAI-nativeâ companies failing to deliver meaningful results? We discuss Casey Newtonâs piece on the reality of these startups, how investor FOMO is outpacing...2025-05-1517 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #31: Do We Need a VC Prenup?, Lightspeed Becomes an RIA, Financing the AI RevolutionIn this episode of The Learning Corner, we explore founder frustrations with venture capital and the concept of VC prenups. The discussion transitions into the blurring lines between venture capital and private equity, examining their structural differences. We delve into the evolution of venture capital, focusing on profitability and LightSpeed Venture Partners' shift to RIA status. The conversation highlights the impact of RIA status from the perspective of founders and the trend toward diversified VC firms. We also discuss the sustainability of mid-sized venture funds, with insights from The Information's AI event, and examine consumer behavior and the integration of...2025-05-0819 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #30: Pre-IPO Company Talent Wars, Winning Fast as Fund Managers, Tariff Impact on Startup/Early Stage VCIn this episode of The Learning Corner, we delve into the impact of AI enthusiasm and tariffs on tech businesses, exploring how these factors are reshaping the landscape. Charles Hudson shares insights on talent retention challenges faced by startups. The conversation shifts to Plaid's potential public offering and the considerations for venture capital returns. We also discuss liquidity and secondary opportunities available to limited partners. The episode examines tariffs and their economic effects on startups. The episode concludes with final thoughts on the broader implications of tariffs.
Figma, Plaid And The Battle To Retain Talent At Almost-Exited Startups by...2025-05-0119 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #29: Agentic Hunger Games, What's an Effective Board Meeting?, The Future of Angel InvestingIn this episode of The Learning Corner, we begin with an introduction and welcome before diving into Ed Sim's insights on the "Enterprise Agent Hunger Games." The discussion explores the dynamics of enterprise software, the challenges posed by AI, and the competitive landscape. We examine how founders can build for scale and sustain AI tools within enterprises. The conversation shifts to reframing board meetings and Precursor's approach to supporting founders. We also touch on Halle Tecco's decision to move away from angel investing after years in the ecosystem.
The Enterprise Agent Hunger Games by Ed Sim
Reframing the Board...2025-04-2420 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #28: Fund 1 Over Performance Math, Media and Content Runs VC, Fund Manager PatienceIn this episode of The Learning Corner, we kick off with an introduction and overview before diving into a consolidated discussion on Fund Ones and the factors that contribute to VC success. The conversation explores how VC firms are evolving into media companies and the importance of content strategy. We also delve into the patience and emotional aspects of early-stage venture capital, highlighting market conditions and portfolio management challenges. The episode wraps up with closing remarks and expressions of gratitude.
The Math of Fund 1s: Why First-Time Funds Mathematically Outperform by Steve Kim
The Next Great VC Firm Will...2025-04-1720 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #27: Shopify's "Leaked" CEO Memo, Tourist Founders, Senior Partners Leaving Established FirmsIn this episode of The Learning Corner, the discussion begins with an overview of AI fever and its profound implications for startups. We examine the rise of tourist founders and the role of venture capital in the AI boom, along with the mounting pressure on companies to pivot towards AI. The conversation shifts to the new phenomenon of senior partner departures from larger funds across the ecosystem.
Shopify's Internal Memo
Opportunism by Sriram Krishnan
Many senior venture capitalists are leaving big firms. Insiders boil it down to a few reasons
(0:00) Introduction to the Learning Corner podcast
(0:44) AI fever...2025-04-1020 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #26: Bradley Tusk Says VC Is Dead, Investor Learnings From The Last Overheated MarketThis episode of The Learning Corner delves into the dynamics between founder quality and market conditions. An introduction to the podcast sets the stage for a discussion on Bradley Tusk's venture fund evolution, highlighting the hybrid model's impact. The roles and innovations in fund management are explored, emphasizing the balance between meaningful support and marketing in venture funds. The conversation then shifts to platform resources and strategies for navigating overheated markets. The episode also examines adjustments in AI investment strategies, addressing price sensitivity and the emotional commitment required in investments.
Bradley Tusk says VC is dead. But the âfixerâ in h...2025-04-0317 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #25: Startup Media Hype Circles, 11x Tech Crunch Article, Market Arbitrage in VentureIn this episode of The Learning Corner, we dive into the venture ecosystem, focusing on optics versus nuance and founder expectations. We explore acqui-hires, small exits, and alternative startup paths, emphasizing transparency. A controversy around an AI sales startup sparks a discussion on founder honesty. We also discuss capitalizing on arbitrage windows, challenges for specialists, and investing in out-of-favor categories like African fintech. The debate continues on AI-focused funds and the generalist versus specialist approach in venture capital, concluding with thoughts on supporting individual contributors.
Headlines Rarely Tell You the Story by Jesse Middleton
a16z- and Benchmark-backed 11x...2025-03-2724 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #24: LP POV on Secondaries, CoreWeave/NVIDIA Growth Loop, Questioning Traditional Reserves StrategiesThis episode of The Learning Corner kicks off with an introduction and overview, setting the stage for a deep dive into Cendana Capital's unique approach to secondaries and small fund liquidity. The conversation moves on to the concept of tourist fund managers, offering insights on how founders can evaluate them effectively. The growth of CoreWeave under the influence of NVIDIA is explored, raising questions about the sustainability of AI infrastructure companies. The discussion then shifts to the challenges surrounding reserve funds and follow-on investments. The episode wraps up by examining the balance between supporting founders and adhering to investment strategy...2025-03-2017 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #23: Unique Revenue Channels For Vertical AI, Ghosting in Venture, Is Data Driven VC Over?In this episode of The Learning Corner, the discussion begins with an introduction to the podcast and hosts, followed by an overview of Harvey AI's impressive $300M Series D funding round. The conversation then shifts to a TechCrunch article addressing the issue of VC ghosting and the frustrations it causes for founders. The episode also examines the tendency of AI startups to exaggerate their traction, introducing the concept of "annual curiosity revenue." Lawrence Lundy Brian's post on the future of data-driven venture capital is explored, highlighting its potential impact. The episode concludes by examining the intersection of AI, data-driven investing...2025-03-1324 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #22: Secondaries Across Venture, Stripe's Tender Offer, Knowing How Much Is Too Much To FundraiseThe discussion turns to venture capital insights, focusing on the importance of liquidity in the ecosystem. The nuances of secondary sales and the role of employee liquidity are explored, shedding light on their significance for startup growth. Attention is given to the challenges of overfunding and the necessity for capital efficiency in startups. The episode features a thoughtful discussion on a blog post, offering additional perspectives. It wraps up with closing remarks and a note of gratitude to the listeners.
Chris Farmer Interview, Strictly VC Download Podcast
Stripe's Valuation Climbs to $91.5b in Secondary Stock Offer by CNBC
Drinking...2025-03-0621 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #21: Anthropic's Latest Raise, Internal Turf Wars in Big Tech, IPO Alternatives In VentureIn this episode of The Learning Corner, the conversation begins with an introduction to the hosts before diving into Anthropic's recent AI funding and the competitive landscape of large language models. The discussion then addresses consumer adoption of AI tools and Google's struggles in AI development. Attention is given to the impact of internal politics on tech innovation, exploring how organizational dynamics can hinder progress. The episode shifts to trends in the venture ecosystem, focusing on IPOs and secondary liquidity. It concludes with an analysis of the evolving venture model, highlighting the increasing importance of financial sophistication.
AI startup...2025-02-2719 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #20: AgTech and Venture Capital, Signs of a Failing Company, What The Heck Does Pre-Seed Even Mean?In this episode of The Learning Corner, the conversation kicks off with insights into understanding the role of Agtech in early-stage investing. The discussion then moves to identifying signs that a startup might be on the brink of failure, with a focus on the critical role of product velocity. Attention is given to recognizing red flags in founder behavior that could signal potential challenges. The episode concludes with a detailed exploration of pre-seed rounds, highlighting their significance and impact on the broader venture capital landscape.
Is Agtech Broken for Venture Capitalâor Are We Asking the Wrong Question? by Sa...2025-02-2018 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #19: Venture Capital 3.0, Deciphering Early Stage Traction, 90's Tech Bubble vs. Current AI ValuationsIn this episode of The Learning Corner, the discussion kicks off with an introduction to the podcast and the significance of ARR milestones in the startup journey. The conversation then transitions into the evolving landscape of venture capital in the AI era, examining AI's influence on VC operations and the unique challenges faced in pre-seed funding. The episode delves into the nuances of analyzing early-stage traction, debunking common misconceptions. A comparison is drawn between the current AI investment hype and the 1999 tech bubble, offering insights into the potential parallels. The episode wraps up with a forward-looking perspective on AI investment...2025-02-1319 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #18: Founders Quitting vs Stopping, The Rise of Spinout VC Funds, AngelList State of Venture ReportIn this episode of The Learning Corner the episode delves into Hunter Walk's essay, exploring the critical themes of founder perseverance and timing decisions in the startup journey. The conversation then shifts to a Forbes article examining Sarah Guo's recent fundraise and the opportunity of spinouts across venture capital. The episode also reviews the AngelList state of venture report, offering a comprehensive look at current and future trends in seed and venture dynamics.
I never want founders to QUIT, but sometimes they should STOP by Hunter Walk
Goodbye Golden Handcuffs, Inside the Partner Exodus Rippling Across Venture Capital by...2025-02-0619 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #17: DeepSeek, Importance of Running a Fundraising Auction, Growing Seed Round SizesIn this episode of The Learning Corner, the discussion begins with an introduction to the podcast, setting the stage for an analysis of DeepSeek and ripple effects across venture, the public markets and startups. The conversation then shifts to predicting the future of AI, focusing on the potential of low-cost models. The episode explores auction-based fundraising, offering practical advice for founders. The importance of maintaining an updated diligence room for founders is emphasized, followed by a discussion on the dynamics of seed rounds, where size truly matters. The challenges and tips for founders navigating large seed rounds are also covered...2025-01-3020 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #16: Pre-Seed/Seed M&A Activity, Solo Founders, Harvey $3B Raise, Fund Performance RecalibrationsIn this episode of The Learning Corner, the conversation begins with an engaging overview of the current venture ecosystem, setting the stage for a discussion on M&A trends in venture capital. The focus then shifts to the unique challenges and dynamics faced by solo founder startups. The episode explores the rise of legal AI startups and their significant impact on the industry, followed by insights into AI's broader influence on professional services. The discussion also addresses how to navigate valuation resets within the venture capital landscape. The episode concludes with thoughtful closing remarks, bringing together the key themes explored.
2025-01-2320 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #15: Andrea Funsten, Robert Vinall, Manny MedinaIn this episode of The Learning Corner, the conversation opens with a warm welcome, setting the stage for an exploration of transparency in venture capitalists' investment memos. The discussion then transitions to a presentation on the lessons learned from mistakes of omission in investing, offering valuable insights into recognizing and avoiding missed opportunities. The episode also delves into a LinkedIn post discussing the intersection of SaaS founders, AI, and evolving business models, highlighting the innovative ways these elements are reshaping the industry.
Why Venture Capitalists Rarely Share Investment Memos by Andrea Funsten
Mistakes of Omission by Robert Vinall
Sorry...2025-01-1719 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #14: The Information, TechCrunch, LifeSciVC (shared by Jay Ripley)In this episode of The Learning Corner, the discussion kicks off with insights into venture financing, setting the groundwork for a deep dive into Bench's shutdown and the dynamics between investors and founders. The conversation then navigates the complexities of venture debt, highlighting potential pitfalls, and addresses trust issues in founder-investor relationships. An exploration of Silicon Valley's unique venture capital landscape is followed by strategies tailored for non-Valley founders. The episode also delves into venture capital economics and fund strategies, comparing exits in biotech and emerging sectors.
Accounting Startup's Sudden Shutdown Adds to Fintech Woes by The Information
Silicon...2025-01-1019 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #13: Rob Go, Zain Rizavi, New York TimesThis is the last episode of 2024 for The Learning Corner, and it's packed with great insights from across the ecosystem. The discussion first shifts to the dynamics of founders choosing firms and people, offering recommendations for repeat founders and insights into risk assessment. The episode delves into investment strategies, emphasizing timing and due diligence, and compares public and private market investing. An exploration of the history and evolution of venture capital is provided, alongside an analysis of founder preferences and decision-making. The dialogue highlights significant learning moments and predictions for the venture ecosystem, wrapping up with closing remarks and expressions...2024-12-2019 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #12: Peter Walker, Benedikt Langer, Aaron LevieIn this episode of The Learning Corner, the conversation begins with an introduction to the series, leading into a discussion on graduation rates from seed to series A. The analysis delves into factors influencing these rates and emphasizes the importance of patience in investment. The focus then shifts to the balance between profitability and growth in startups, followed by insights on building reputation and personal brand within the venture ecosystem. The episode explores marketing strategies in venture capital and discusses Aaron Levie's post about AI agent pricing. A look into the future landscape of B2B SaaS is provided before...2024-12-1322 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #11: Chris Neumann, Forbes, The EconomistIn this episode of The Learning Corner, the conversation opens with insights into current market turbulence, setting the stage for a discussion on navigating silence in Silicon Valley. The episode then explores limited partners' perspectives on the future of venture capital in 2025 and examines the evolving dynamics of early-stage ventures. The narrative shifts to Sequoia Capital's business model evolution, highlighting adaptive strategies in a changing market. The discussion continues with a focus on enhancing founder relationships and providing robust venture support, emphasizing innovation within the venture capital sector. The episode concludes with closing thoughts and appreciation for the audience.
...2024-12-0620 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #10: Euclid Insights, Benedict EvansIn this episode of The Learning Corner, the journey begins with an introduction to the series and a lively discussion about ChatGPT. The conversation then delves into the concept of Service as a Software, weighing its pros, cons, and cost implications. The exploration continues with a look at AI and SaaS models within the Precursor portfolio, emphasizing the balance between services and scalability in product development. A brief sponsor message from Euclid Insights is shared. The dialogue compares AI to historical technological advancements, enriched by personal anecdotes on its practical use. The episode concludes with closing remarks and a heartfelt...2024-11-2919 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #9: Jamin Ball, Hunter Walk, Menlo VenturesIn this episode of The Learning Corner, the discussion kicks off with an introduction to the series, setting the stage for a deep dive into venture capital incentives and their impact on valuations. The conversation then explores the influence of large funds on market valuations and examines hiring strategies, debating the merits of missionaries versus mercenaries. Strategies for sustainable growth and the realignment of incentives are analyzed, followed by valuable seed investing insights from Hunter Walk. The episode also addresses the rise of generative AI in enterprise applications, before concluding with a sign-off.
Misaligned Incentives by Jamin Ball
Winning...2024-11-2220 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #8: Bowery Farms, Sapphire Partners, Patricia Halfen WexlerIn this episode of The Learning Corner, the focus begins with the crucial task of managing raised funds, setting the stage for a discussion on the collapse of Bowery Farming and the pivotal investment decisions involved. The narrative unfolds to explore unexpected risks and factors contributing to startup failures, emphasizing the importance of managing business dependencies and evaluating market size. The strategy and impact of venture reserves on investments are examined, followed by insights into the dynamics of follow-on investments. The episode also delves into the future and industrialization of the venture ecosystem, contrasting opportunities and strategies for small versus...2024-11-1523 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #7: Ubiquity Ventures, WSJ, Equal VenturesIn this episode of The Learning Corner, we begin with an exploration of the pivotal role seed investors play in the venture ecosystem. The discussion then shifts to the unique traits and challenges faced by solo General Partners. The potential valuation surge of AI startup Perplexity is analyzed, alongside broader monetization strategies within the AI space. Insights from an emerging venture manager provide a fresh perspective on current trends. The conversation also covers the importance of sustaining collective success in seed investing and offers guidance on navigating career transitions within venture management.
3 Things Founders Will NEVER Hear From a...2024-11-0818 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #6: Pitchbook NVCA Venture Monitor Q3 2024 ReportThis episode of The Learning Corner delves into the key insights from the Q3 2024 PitchBook NVCA Venture Monitor, analyzing its implications for the venture ecosystem. The discussion highlights how the current fundraising market is reshaping founder strategies and explores the consequences of limited distributions on venture capital dynamics. Performance metrics in venture funds are examined, alongside considerations for LPs. The challenges faced by emerging funds and their pursuit of non-consensus investments are also addressed. The episode wraps up with closing remarks and a call to action for listeners.
Q3 2024 Pitchbook NVCA Venture Monitor Report
(0:00) Introduction and key insights...2024-11-0117 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #5: Euclid Insights, Strictly VCThis episode of The Learning Corner delves into the nuanced debate of ownership versus selection in venture capital, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of Precursor's approach to seed stage investing amidst the current reckoning. The conversation shifts to LP discussions surrounding crypto and AI, offering a glimpse into evolving investment interests. SaaS seed valuations are analyzed, drawing parallels with AI trends. The episode also addresses the responsibilities founders face in a selective market, navigating fundraising hurdles. Finally, General Catalyst's diversified investment strategy is examined, highlighting its focus on customer value strategies.
The Seed Stage Reckoning - Euclid...2024-10-2518 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #4: David Clark from VenCap International, Continuation Funds by TechCrunch, Neal Sarraf from Forum VenturesThis episode of The Learning Corner explores the evolving dynamics of venture scalability and the pressures that come with it. Expectations for the venture capital industry over the next few years are discussed, with a focus on capital concentration among top-tier VCs. Strategies for non-multistage funds during downturns are examined, highlighting the impact of General Catalyst's new continuation fund. The viability and trade-offs of continuation funds, particularly for smaller funds, are analyzed. The conversation also touches on the changing landscape of seed investing and the importance of maintaining customer focus in a shifting VC environment.
David Clark, VenCap International...2024-10-1821 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #3: Nnamdi Iregbulem, Jordan Nel, The New York TimesThis episode of The Learning Corner we have another member of the investment team joining us, Marina Girgis! The discussion then shifts to a comprehensive analysis of seed valuations and the various factors that influence them. The conversation continues with an examination of non-consensus deal sourcing and the diligence required in such investments. The impact of current market conditions on CRV's fund returns is also discussed.
Seed valuations aren't valuations by Nnamdi Iregbulem
Big funds, small funds, and the changing tide by Jordan Nel
A venture capital fund does something rare: give money back by The New York Times2024-10-1121 minThe Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #2: Anthony Kwesi Hagan, Euclid Insights, Sarah Tavel's NewsletterThis week on the Learning Corner we discuss the importance of transparency in LP-GP relationships especially in a time where the growing need for liquidity is top of mind for LPs. We also delve into a rising interest in AI-first roll-ups, the evolution of tech-enabled service providers, and the management of legacy assets. The episode wraps up with insights into risks and strategies in AI seed investing especially as a B2B AI application.
Buying Time - Unrealized Returns - Get Used to Waiting! by Anthony Kwesi Hagan
The AI-First Roll-Up by Euclid Insights
Thinking through the future for...2024-10-0421 min
The Learning Corner by PrecursorEpisode #1: Welcome To The Learning CornerCharles Hudson and Mia Farnham kick off the first Learning Corner episode. This week we delved through Hunter Walk's piece on VC misconceptions, the impact of Open AI's new fundraising and Lead Edge Capital's information hierarchy shared in letter form.
(0:00) Introduction and Background of Precursor Ventures
(4:38) 24 Venture Capitalists Tell You "What One Thing Do They Wish People Better Understood About VC" by Hunter Walk
(10:16) Trends in Fund Size and LP Expectations
(15:19) Open AI's New Fundraise is Shaking Up Silicon Valley - The Economist
(26:23) Lead Edge Capital's Hierarchy of Reported Information - Shared via Sheel Mohnot LinkedIn
(29:53) Adapting to Investor Expectations...2024-09-2730 min
Mamamia Out LoudRoxy Jacenko And A Weight Loss Drug WarningListen to our latest subscriber episode: The Meanest Things Anyone Has Ever Said About You Subscribe to Mamamia Roxy Jacenko has shared a cautionary tale after she went against her doctors advice regarding a weight-loss drug. We unpack why Roxy's experience is no joking matter. Plus, what is a frenemy and why are they the worst relationships for you? Holly, Mia and Clare have thoughts. And, does menopause have to be sexy? We decide if it's time to give women a break. The End Bits Listen to our...2023-09-0440 min