Shows
The NFX PodcastHow AI is Forcing Startups to Rethink Pricing w/ Madhavan RamanujamRecorded at the NFX SF HQ, this episode features Madhavan Ramanujam (author of Monetizing Innovation and Scaling Innovation), alongside Pete Flint (GP at NFX, founder of Trulia) and Anna Piñol (Partner at NFX). Together, they break down how AI is changing the rules of pricing, defensibility, and growth.
He covers the shift from services to venture capital, AI monetization, and how early discussions on willingness to pay shape value capture. Strategies for seed-stage startups, successful POCs, and enterprise deals are examined, highlighting simple pricing communication. The episode also addresses outcome-based pricing, AI's potential to reduce pricing bias, and tactics f...
2025-09-051h 11
The NFX PodcastThe NFX Podcast w/ Alex Babin of HerculesAIHercules builds high-quality, enterprise-grade AI solutions based on data extraction, transformation, and verification, while integrating with enterprise systems and tools for maintenance and monitoring. Join NFX general partner James Currier and HerculesAI CEO Alex Babin talk about the latest breakthroughs in the AI space of enterprise companies.
Hercules builds high-quality, enterprise-grade AI solutions based on data extraction, transformation, and verification, while integrating with enterprise systems and tools for maintenance and monitoring.
Join NFX general partner James Currier and HerculesAI CEO Alex Babin talk about the latest breakthroughs in the AI space of enterprise companies.
(0:00) Introduction and...
2024-03-2035 min
The NFX PodcastEssay Readout: Real Estate’s Hidden AI Revolution by Pete FlintThis is an essay readout using an AI voice clone of NFX general partner, Pete Flint. AI has the potential to smooth out many links in the real estate production chain and create a cascade that will close the productivity gap. This essay reveals what’s on the way and how founders can seize this opportunity.
Read the full essay here - https://www.nfx.com/post/ai-revolution-proptech
Read the full essay here - https://www.nfx.com/post/ai-revolution-proptech
(0:00) Introduction and AI voice experiment
(2:35) The challenges and opportunities in digitizing the real estate industry
(6:31) AI applications in zo...
2023-10-2216 min
The NFX Podcast#1 Phone A Friend: "Astronauts for Inner Space" with Raed KhawajaMorgan Beller calls up Raed Khawaja - CEO & Co-Founder at Open - to catch up and talk about the current movement around one's 'inner-space'. Open is a social space for meditation, movement, and practice — on and offline, who’s raised close to $15M to help friends be present together. They blend old and new to bring you to the here and now on their app, in person at their Venice Beach studio, and even in the sky on JetBlue airlines. Their hybrid method strengthens the mind-body connection. NFX operates as a pre-seed and seed stage VC that is transforming how true...
2023-07-2634 min
The NFX PodcastEssay Readout: 3 Waves of Successful Generative Tech Startups by James CurrierThis is an essay readout using an AI voice clone of NFX general partner, James Currier. Every 14 years there’s a tech revolution, and we have now entered the Generative Tech revolution. Anything you’re interested in, anything you’re working on is going to be impacted by generative tech and generative AI. In addition to the AI model companies, many unicorns and decacorns will be built, starting now. We’re already seeing three types of winners. If you can wrap your mind around what is happening with these new capabilities and see the future better than others, there is no bette...
2023-07-1604 min
The NFX PodcastAI x Speed (Sunday Readouts)This is an essay readout using an AI voice clone of NFX general partner, James Currier. The AI revolution just ratcheted up the speed bar for startups. You think you’re moving fast enough. You’re not. Speed is the number one advantage of a startup. But now that generative AI here, your definition of speed has to increase 10x.
Read the full essay here - https://www.nfx.com/post/speed-and-ai
(0:00) Introduction to AI and its future implications
(1:16) NFX's perspective on generative AI
(2:16) The need for founders to move faster into the AI market
(3:39) The importance of rese...
2023-06-2508 min
The NFX PodcastEp 11: Network Effects In TechBio (NFX Masterclass)Biology is the most advanced technology on earth. It’s a nanotechnology that actually works, and it scales. The rest of the world will benefit when there are more TechBio founders and investors in the space and this sector has never been more central to shaping a better future. The next significant phase of human progress is going to be led by these Scientist-Founders who build TechBio companies capable of unlocking that future. In this episode, general partner Omri Drory explores how network effects are helping TechBio companies cure diseases, fight climate change, and tackle some of the biggest issues fa...
2022-12-2109 min
The NFX PodcastEp 10: Network Effects In Gaming (NFX Masterclass)We are in the first wave of web3 games, and some believe that games don't have network effects built into their development or long-term strategy. In this episode, listen to NFX partner Gigi Levy-Weiss as he dives into the world of defensibility within the gaming industry, sharing the 4 layers of network effects, the future of virtual goods, and a case study on Steam - the leading platform for video game development.
This is an audio version of episode 10 from The Network Effects Masterclass, curated for audio and listening on the go. For the full video experience, transcripts, and recommended...
2022-12-1417 min
The NFX PodcastEp 9: Why Network Effects Are (Even) More Powerful In Web3 (NFX Masterclass)In Web3, network effects are fundamental and critical to survival. If you’re building in Web3 properly, then it should automatically include network effects. Listen in as General Partner Morgan Beller acts like the river guide of network effects for Web3 as she shares her experience and insights on how to be defensible in this new world. Eventually, we will see Web3 swallow Web2 - look how much we’ve learned since that white paper for BTC arrived in 2009. Founders on the frontlines of the Web3 world are educating us on how to remain defensible and retain growth amongst competitors.
Th...
2022-12-0724 min
The NFX PodcastEp 8: Your Life Is Driven By Network Effects (NFX Masterclass)What city you live in. Who you date or marry. Which job you choose. What clothes you wear. We all think we make these choices ourselves. It certainly feels like we’re in full control. The unseen hand in them all is the networks that surround us and the powerful math they exert on us. This episode outlines how we see network effects impacting nearly every aspect of your life. It will hopefully help you make decisions that are more true to the kind of life you want to lead. This is an audio version of episode 8 from The Network Ef...
2022-11-3015 min
The NFX PodcastEp 8: Your Life Is Driven By Network Effects (NFX Masterclass)What city you live in. Who you date or marry. Which job you choose. What clothes you wear. We all think we make these choices ourselves. It certainly feels like we’re in full control. The unseen hand in them all is the networks that surround us and the powerful math they exert on us. This episode outlines how we see network effects impacting nearly every aspect of your life. It will hopefully help you make decisions that are more true to the kind of life you want to lead.
This is an audio version of episode 8 from The Network Ef...
2022-11-3015 min
The NFX PodcastEp. 7 - Network Problems Demand Network Solutions (NFX Masterclass)In this episode, James Currier delves into the power law in network effects and its impact. He explores the transition from an agrarian to a networked economy, discusses the perception of status in this new system, and examines the social and economic impacts of network effect businesses. He also discusses changing social contracts and the role of an ombudsman in network effect businesses.
We spend a lot of time teaching Founders how to use network effects to create these giant, world-changing businesses, but we think that too little has been said about how society should adapt to these new...
2022-11-2316 min
The NFX PodcastEp. 6 - Case Studies: Network Effects In Action (NFX Masterclass)null
These are case studies and stories that outline network effects in the wild - it is a montage of how big tech companies like Trulia, Meta, Uber, and even Bitcoin navigate their defensibility over time. For the best experience of this episode, watch our case studies at nfx.com/masterclass or by searching on YouTube to get the visual side of these deep dives.
That was episode 6 of 11, from the Network effects masterclass. Stay tuned and subscribe as next up is Ep. 7 - Network Problems Demand Network Solutions, here on the NFX podcast.
This...
2022-11-1821 min
The NFX PodcastEp. 5 - Network Bonding Theory (NFX Masterclass)In this episode, James Currier delves into 'Network Bonding Theory'. He elucidates how to make implicit network calculations explicit, discusses declining equity distribution in startups, and the future of calculating node value. He explores the role of fungible tokens in enhancing network nodes and the shift to tokens and NFTs. Lastly, he discusses the vulnerability of networks and the importance of understanding and measuring nodes for company development.
Realize that your startup itself is a network. Your goal is to bond people to it. When you attach, or bond, one node to your network, it adds value to all...
2022-11-0922 min
The NFX PodcastEp. 4 - The 4 Pillars of Defensibility (NFX Masterclass)In this episode, Pete Flint discusses the four major defensibilities in the digital world: network effects, brand, embedding, and scale. He emphasizes the importance of these defensibilities in early-stage startups and explains why focusing on network effects can be more beneficial than scale effects. The episode also explores the role of intellectual property in certain categories and how to incorporate different forms of defensibility over time.
Durability = Network Effects + Economies of Scale + Brand + Embedding + IP.
Learn about these other 4 strategies for startup durability outside of network effects from NFX General Partner, Pete Flint. Value creation mostly accrues...
2022-10-2617 min
The NFX PodcastEp. 3 - Mapping Out the 16 Network Effects (NFX Masterclass)In this episode, James Currier dives into the Network Effects Masterclass, exploring various types of network effects. He discusses personal utility, direct, marketplace, platform, expertise, and data network effects, with examples from Bit Torrent and Skype. He also explores social or human, tribal, and hub and spoke network effects, emphasizing their cultural and business influence.
Unlock the NFX map to understand how each network effect works — in episode 3 of the Network Effects Masterclass, General Partner James Currier will review the 16 types of network effects and how they reinforce each other in powerful ways. Learn to analyze the NFX map to...
2022-10-1923 min
The NFX PodcastEp. 2 - The Underlying Properties Of Network Theory (NFX Masterclass)Unlearn what you thought you knew about network effects. This episode takes you to the very beginning and lays out network theory from square one. Listen in as James covers the basics of network principles to use as a launchpad for the rest of the course and see how your startup behaves as a network itself.
This is an abridged version of episode 2 from The Network Effects Masterclass, curated for audio and listening on the go. For the full video experience, transcripts, and recommended reading, join the free Network Effects Masterclass at - NFX.com/masterclass.
(0:00) Introduction to...
2022-10-1227 min
The NFX PodcastEp. 1 - Why Network Effects Are Mission Critical (NFX Masterclass)In this episode, James Currier provides a masterclass on Network Effects. He discusses his experiences, understanding, and the evolution of network effects in companies like Monster.com, Apple, and Salesforce. The episode explores the history and importance of network effects with examples from marketplaces, AT&T, and Microsoft, and presents case studies on Facebook and WhatsApp. The episode also teases upcoming content.
Few understand the hidden complexities of network effects - learn all there is to know about building iconic companies from day one. This is episode 1 of the Network Effects Masterclass (audio edition).
You'll hear a...
2022-10-0513 min
The NFX PodcastComing Soon: The Network Effects Masterclass [special audio edition]In this episode, James Currier delves into the significance of network effects, providing insights on their impact on startups and daily life. Also included is an introduction to a master class on network effects.
At NFX, we've spent over 20 years studying the power of network effects. As founders, we’ve built them into companies worth $10B+. As investors, we teach our founders these playbooks. Now we’re putting everything we know into an 11-episode Network Effects Masterclass, made for early-stage startup founders and their teams.
There will be a full video and transcript experience on NFX.com — but we...
2022-09-2202 min
The NFX PodcastNFXBio: Academia or Startup? A Decision Matrix for Future Scientist-FoundersIn this episode, guests Jennifer Dionne and Yaniv Erlich share their journey transitioning from academia to startups, including Yaniv's experience with MyHeritage and Eleven Therapeutics. They compare academia and startups, discuss career options post-PhD, and provide advice for PhDs considering starting a company. They also delve into translating academic experience to business, reflecting on their academic careers and realizations about entrepreneurship.
NFX Bio is committed to backing Scientist-Founders who are inspired to change the world. But there are far fewer scientists-Founders today than there should be. Instead, scientists often follow the path that academia paves for them: from graduate...
2022-07-2147 min
The NFX PodcastBuilding Confidence Networks In Latin AmericaIn this episode, James Currier chats with Antonio Rojas, discussing his role at LVP and their focus on LatAm. They delve into Antonio's investment experience, the importance of entrepreneurial networks in Mexico, and the impact of increasing valuations in LatAm. They also discuss international outreach, unique challenges, the rise of web 3, and the potential of investments to influence societal change.
NFX has been increasingly active in LatAm over the last few years, largely drawn there by an incredibly talented pool of Founders in the region. To understand the unique challenges and opportunities of LatAm, James talked with Antonia Rojas...
2021-11-1035 min
The NFX PodcastCommunity-First Company Building with Cuy Sheffield & Micah JohnsonIn today's episode, NFX Partner Morgan Beller talks with Cuy Sheffield (head of crypto at Visa) and Micah Johnson (Bored Apes, CryptoPunks, and Aku and former professional baseball player) as they explore tactics for building community, no matter what industry you’re in. Listen to their conversation as they uncover why Founders can’t skip the community-building part anymore, as it’s essential to company building in today's ecosystem.
The next evolution of companies will be created in public with early customers, partners, and supporters. They’ll be community-owned and operated, building upon the playbooks created by early NFT and play...
2021-10-2147 min
The NFX PodcastA Founder’s Exponential Toolset with Azeem Azhar & James CurrierIn this episode, Azeem Azhar and James Currier discuss exponential growth in technology, the Internet's role in accelerating advancements, and the societal implications. They also delve into the concept of regulatory innovation, the impact of fast-paced tech development, health data sharing, and the integration of crypto in various industries.
Visionary Founders, instead of solving market failures or fixing problems that are clear, push market evolution. They commit to pushing society to the upward bend of the exponential technology curve.
Today, our friend Azeem Azhar, former VC-backed Founder, creator of The Exponential View blog, and author of the...
2021-09-1445 min
The NFX PodcastNFXBio: Inside a Scientist-Founder’s Journey from Pre-Seed to Series Dnull
Today, Mammoth Biosciences announced their series C and D at more than a $1B valuation. Mammoth is a startup story that Founders should be following because there is so much to learn from their path from the lab to unicorn status. At no other time in modern history has the need for science to lead our society toward a better future been more apparent and immense. We can meet this need by investing in the next generation of tech-bio companies like Mammoth.
NFX led Mammoth’s Pre-Seed and Seed rounds, co-led the Series A, and has in...
2021-09-0927 min
The NFX PodcastChoosing The Final Frontier: Launching a Rocket Company with Andy Lapsa of Stoke SpaceToday NFX Partner Morgan Beller is joined by Andy Lapsa, Co-Founder & CEO of Stoke Space Technologies, a company building reusable second-stage rockets to seamlessly Earth and orbit. Founded in 2019 and based in Renton, Washington they have been focused on the reusability aspect of rocketry to make space access more available and frequent in our future lives. Lapsa was a former employee and award-winning rocket engineer at Bezos's Blue Origin, while the rest of their team come from SpaceX and other leading aerospace companies.
"We have all the technical and economic ingredients needed to build a massive economy in space...
2021-08-0440 min
The NFX PodcastThe Founders' List: Status, Wealth, & Power: Network Effects Demand A New Social ContractThis is The Founders’ List – audio versions of essays from technology’s most important leaders, selected by the founder community.Network effect businesses are reshaping the world. Network effects are still the best and most powerful force we know to create persistent value for billions of people. However, we think that too little has been said about how society should adapt to these new network effect behemoths we’re helping create.NFX Partner James Currier outlines how the network economy works, and how power, wealth, and status all flow on the network. He then looks at the impl...
2021-07-3030 min
The NFX PodcastThe Founders' List: Status, Wealth, & Power: Network Effects Demand A New Social ContractIn this episode, James Currier delves into the concept of network effects, its impact on status, wealth, and power, and the emergence of the network economy. Using Facebook as a case study, he discusses the dominance of network effect businesses. He also explores the acceleration of the network economy through cryptocurrency. The episode further examines the Matthew Principle and how network economy influences various fields, including education and real estate. James concludes with a discussion on the evolving social contract in the network economy and the roles of governments and companies.
This is The Founders’ List – audio versions of essa...
2021-07-3030 min
The NFX PodcastNFX Mashup: The SPAC MasterclassThis is an NFX Mashup, where we string thoughts from past episodes together under the same topic.Startups today have more options than ever before — much earlier in their life cycles — for entering the public markets. Founders are constantly looking for advice on how to think about traditional IPO vs. SPAC vs. direct listing — and how to even answer the question: Am I ready to be a public company?In this mashup, NFX Partner Pete Flint is joined by Eventbrite co-founder Kevin Hartz, Hippo founder Assaf Wand, and the IPO whisperer Lisa Buyer on their experience and adv...
2021-07-2920 min
The NFX PodcastNFX Mashup: The SPAC Masterclassnull
This is an NFX Mashup, where we string thoughts from past episodes together under the same topic.
Startups today have more options than ever before — much earlier in their life cycles — for entering the public markets. Founders are constantly looking for advice on how to think about traditional IPO vs. SPAC vs. direct listing — and how to even answer the question: Am I ready to be a public company?
In this mashup, NFX Partner Pete Flint is joined by Eventbrite co-founder Kevin Hartz, Hippo founder Assaf Wand, and the IPO whisperer Lisa Buyer on their e...
2021-07-2920 min
The NFX PodcastMeet the Team Behind 'Stoner Cats' (NFT Animated Series from Mila Kunis & Friends)In this episode, Morgan Beller, Mack Flavelle, Lisa Sterbakov, and Maaria Bajwa discuss the use of Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) and their application in the Stoner Katz Project. They delve into the benefits of NFTs for creators, the community aspect of the project, and the risks and potentials of using NFTs as access tokens. The conversation also touches on the impact of NFTs on Hollywood and the challenges of content selection in the industry.
'Stoner Cats' is an adult animated series centered on five house cats who repeatedly save their beloved owner created by Mila Kunis, Ashton Kutcher, and friends...
2021-07-2350 min
The NFX PodcastAnn Hiatt on Trillion Dollar Leadership (An Inside Look at Jeff Bezos & Eric Schmidt)In this episode, James Currier interviews Ann Hiatt, discussing her experiences at Amazon, Google, and Yahoo, the importance of 'glue people' in tech, and her transition from Amazon to Google. They explore key strengths for success, characteristics of successful CEOs, and the importance of team dissent. Insights on mission statements, value-alignment hiring, and building significant companies are shared. The episode concludes with a discussion on Hiatt's book "Bet on Yourself".
What few people see is that Trillion-Dollar Leadership focuses relentlessly on the “who.” Jeff Bezos and Eric Schmidt both aligned their companies around this question: Who are we serving and...
2021-07-2247 min
The NFX PodcastThe Founders' List: Vitalik Buterin on Bitcoin Maximalism, Currency, and Platform Network EffectsIn this episode, NFX delves into Bitcoin dominance, new crypto protocol creation, and the intricacies of side chains and Ethereum smart contracts. They explore network effects in a crypto economic context, discuss the downsides of side chains, and examine the power of currency network effects. The concept of US Beller stablecoin maximalism is explored, alongside Blockstream's funding strategies and Hayekian currency competition.
This is The Founders’ List – audio versions of essays from technology’s most important leaders, selected by the founder community.
In this article (published in 2014) Ethereum creator Vitalik Buterin challenges the Bitcoin maximalist movement a few di...
2021-07-2230 min
The NFX PodcastMaking Markets with Prof. Scott Duke Kominers (HBS) & James Curriernull
Over the past twenty years, tech entrepreneurs have created and captured enormous value by launching new marketplaces to the world.
Today NFX Partner James Currier talks with Professor Scott Duke Kominers, who has been teaching the course 'Making Markets' along with other classes at Harvard Business School. With over 80 academic papers published, he is in the MBA Class of 1960 Associate Professor of Business Administration in the Entrepreneurial Management Unit, as well as a Faculty Affiliate of the Harvard Department of Economics, the Harvard Center of Mathematical Sciences & Applications, and a Research Economist at the National Bureau...
2021-07-1951 min
The NFX PodcastMaking Markets with Prof. Scott Duke Kominers (HBS) & James CurrierOver the past twenty years, tech entrepreneurs have created and captured enormous value by launching new marketplaces to the world. Today NFX Partner James Currier talks with Professor Scott Duke Kominers, who has been teaching the course 'Making Markets' along with other classes at Harvard Business School. With over 80 academic papers published, he is in the MBA Class of 1960 Associate Professor of Business Administration in the Entrepreneurial Management Unit, as well as a Faculty Affiliate of the Harvard Department of Economics, the Harvard Center of Mathematical Sciences & Applications, and a Research Economist at the National Bureau of Economic...
2021-07-1951 min
The NFX PodcastThe Founders' List: How VCs See Your KPIsIn this episode, NFX discusses the crucial role of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in startups. They delve into the significance of daily reports, introduce a KPI checklist, and guide on developing precise, measurable KPIs. The episode also explores the importance of time-specificity, actionability in KPIs, and benchmarking against competitors.
This is The Founders’ List – audio versions of essays from technology’s most important leaders, selected by the founder community.
Everyone knows that KPIs are critical, but often Founders are not looking at KPIs from the right angle. As a General Partner at NFX, Gigi Levy-Weiss now asks three...
2021-07-1708 min
The NFX PodcastThe Founders' List: How VCs See Your KPIsThis is The Founders’ List – audio versions of essays from technology’s most important leaders, selected by the founder community.Everyone knows that KPIs are critical, but often Founders are not looking at KPIs from the right angle. As a General Partner at NFX, Gigi Levy-Weiss now asks three questions to every Founder he meets. Their responses speak volumes about their odds of success:- Do you diligently track KPIs?- What KPIs have you chosen to track?- Have you set appropriate goals based on your KPIs?Read the full NFX Essay...
2021-07-1708 min
The NFX PodcastThe Founders' List: The New Generation of Labor Marketplaces and the Future of WorkIn this episode, Pete Flint delves into the shifting landscape of the labor market, the rise of the talent economy, and the future of labor marketplaces. He explores topics such as verticalization, transaction ownership, job tenure and scarcity, reskilling, upskilling, and success factors for building labor marketplaces. He also discusses the transformative potential of labor marketplaces during a crisis and the current climate for building them.
This is The Founders’ List – audio versions of essays from technology’s most important leaders, selected by the founder community.
When the economy eventually normalizes, demand for labor will recover, and work w...
2021-07-1517 min
The NFX PodcastSeeing Growth in a Downturn with Eran Ben-Shushan & Gigi Levy-WeissIn this episode, Eran Ben-Shusham, a seasoned entrepreneur, shares his company's journey through a business model pivot. He discusses the critical role of speed, execution, and strong company culture during a crisis. The conversation also delves into the shift towards virtual events, dealing with new customer needs, and the challenges of scaling during a pivot. Additionally, Eran speaks on the emotional impact of a disappearing core business and the importance of maintaining company values throughout the transition.
In the face of a global pandemic and a financial meltdown, Founders are confronted with a new reality. If you are running...
2021-07-1244 min
The NFX Podcast"A Tragedy of Measurement" with Rob Goldman & James CurrierRob Goldman joined the growth team at Facebook in 2012 - the same year that News Feed ads launched. He became Facebook's VP of Ads and was responsible for more than 99% of their revenue until he left seven years later in 2019.
Today, Rob and NFX Partner James Currier focus on the tragedy of measurement inside these complex dynamic systems like Facebook, Twitter, or YouTube. Very few people in the world understand how to pick the measurements to be measured, measure them accurately, then display them accurately to the people in the organization so that they can run the business based on...
2021-07-0940 minThe NFX PodcastThe Founders' List: 8 Skills Top Founders Master for Startup Fundraising (How VCs Negotiate)This is The Founders’ List – audio versions of essays from technology’s most important leaders, selected by the founder community.Fundraising is a learned skill – and VCs almost always have the upper hand because they deal with it all day, everyday. Over the years of founding, advising, and investing in companies, Gigi has learned that VCs are better at startup fundraising than entrepreneurs. In reality, knowing what to expect from VCs – the negotiation dynamics Founders are likely to encounter – is half the battle.Before you start communicating with VCs, take the time to learn how to detect and m...
2021-06-3013 min
The NFX PodcastThe Founders' List: 8 Skills Top Founders Master for Startup Fundraising (How VCs Negotiate)In this episode, NFX explores the art of VC negotiations, discussing how to communicate your valuation and handle low baller offers. They delve into talking in pre-money valuation during startup fundraising, ESOP allocations, and distinguishing leaders from followers. Additionally, they emphasize the power of controlling the deadline and the role of self-awareness in fundraising negotiations.
This is The Founders’ List – audio versions of essays from technology’s most important leaders, selected by the founder community.
Fundraising is a learned skill – and VCs almost always have the upper hand because they deal with it all day, everyday. Over the year...
2021-06-3013 min
The NFX PodcastHow a Top Investor Sees the World with Saar GurIn this episode, James Currier converses with guest Saar Gur about his entrepreneurial journey in Silicon Valley. They discuss Saar's transition from entrepreneur to venture capitalist, his approach to investing, and the importance of emotional connection. They delve into Saar's successful investments in DoorDash and Patreon, the power of creators, and the potential in Patreon. The conversation also covers identifying investment opportunities through Reddit communities and crypto movements, characteristics of successful founders, and a case study on Ring's evolution.
Saar Gur is one of the best investors in Silicon Valley and has a gift of identifying the next big...
2021-06-2839 min
The NFX PodcastNFXBio: Why C2i is the World’s First Platform for Cancer IntelligenceIn this episode, James Currier and Omri Amirav-Drory delve into synthetic biology and tech bio, introducing guest Asaf Zviran, CEO of C2I. They discuss the impact of tech bio on industries, strategies for hiring and fundraising in a virtual world, and the balance between science and business in startups. They also explore the future of cancer treatment and provide valuable advice for startup founders.
The team at C2i Genomics is combining cutting-edge genomics and sophisticated AI to provide the world’s first whole-genome cancer intelligence platform, transforming the way cancer is monitored and treated.
C2i...
2021-06-2548 min
The NFX PodcastMajor Opportunities for Young Founders with Jon Levin, Dean of Stanford GSBIn this episode, Pete Flint talks with Jon Levin about the career prospects for the class of 2021, emerging industries, and trends for entrepreneurs. They delve into the evolution of entrepreneurship, the societal impact of business leaders, and the shifting landscape for startup founders. They also discuss capitalism, government roles, and Stanford Business School's new task force. Lastly, they reflect on lessons from Levin's tenure as a Dean and the future of education.
Stanford GSB Dean Jon Levin joins NFX Partner Pete Flint to discuss his perspective on new Founders entering the industry, how Stanford encourages its students to solve...
2021-06-1037 min
The NFX PodcastThe Insider Story of Waze with Noam BardinIn this episode, former CEO of Waze, Noam Bardin, delves into the importance of U.S. success for a global brand, his framework for assessing business ideas, and Waze's unique design strategies. He discusses the power of network effects, the impact of user activity on functionality, and the value of data in Waze's business model. The conversation also covers growth tactics after achieving product-market fit, the costs of losing focus, and understanding competitor strategies.
Underlying Waze's journey is a little-known approach to product thinking, super-powerful data network effects, and a guiding north star metric. This is Waze's insider story...
2021-06-021h 01
The NFX PodcastThe Insider Story of Waze with Noam BardinUnderlying Waze's journey is a little-known approach to product thinking, super-powerful data network effects, and a guiding north star metric. This is Waze's insider story, as told by their former CEO, Noam Bardin.NFX Partner Gigi Levy-Weiss recently sat down with Noam, where they discussed the step-by-step story of the company's growth, starting from their early days in 2008 with just 2,000 monthly active users, through being acquired by Google for $1B in 2013, and hitting 140M monthly active users at the time Noam stepped down in Feb 2021.Early-stage Founders are wise to study as many successful growth stories...
2021-06-021h 01
The NFX PodcastHeather Fernandez & Pete Flint on Startup Speed As A Public GoodIn this episode, Pete Flint, Heather Fernandez, and James Currier discuss the business model of Solve Health and its strategic approach to navigating through the pandemic. They analyze the complexities and opportunities in the American healthcare industry, the impact of regulations on innovation, and the importance of understanding supply and demand in healthcare marketplaces. The episode concludes with advice for young entrepreneurs interested in healthcare.
Speed is routinely acknowledged as a major advantage for startups. But startup speed is not sufficiently understood as an invaluable competency for society at large. Solv Health’s growth during the pandemic is a gr...
2021-05-2548 min
The NFX PodcastLi Jin on The Passion Economy & Its Hidden CurrencyIn this episode, James Currier and guest Li Jin delve into the passion economy, discussing its social implications and the role of self-promotion. They explore the involvement of Gen Z, investment dynamics, and examine case studies such as Mirror and Maven. The conversation also touches on the evolution of digital transactions, challenges in the passion economy, the impact of remote work, personal branding, and the arrival of Web 3.0.
The "Passion Economy" as coined by Li Jin makes it easier for people to monetize their individuality through unique, creative work. This comes with a host of benefits, not the least...
2021-05-1844 min
The NFX PodcastThe IPO Whisperer Lise Buyer Talks Going PublicIn this episode, Pete Flint and guest Lise Buyer discuss the shift from private to public investments, the rise of mega rounds, and the appeal and risks of SPACs. They explore the impact of the Robin Hood generation on IPOs, the importance of transparency for public listings, and share Google's IPO story.
Lise Buyer, known as the IPO whisperer Pete Flint on the NFX Podcast to discuss all things taking a company public via traditional IPOs, Direct Listings, and SPACs.
Lise consulted on Trulia’s IPO in back in 2012 when Pete was CEO and Co-Founder. Previously, Ms Bu...
2021-05-1153 min
The NFX PodcastThe Founders' List: The Maker Protocol Whitepaper - MakerDAO's Multi-Collateral Dai (MCD) SystemIn this episode, guest Kristen O'Brien delves into the Maker Dow project and Dye stablecoin, explaining its protocol, collateral assets, and key external actors. Further discussions cover the Die Savings Rate, governance, risk mitigation, and emergency shutdowns. The future of the protocol and Dye stablecoin use cases are also explored.
In December 2017, the white paper introducing Maker and the original decentralized Dai Stablecoin System was published. It describes the exact design and features of the Dai launch, as well as a roadmap for the future of Dai. The Dai Stablecoin is a collateral-backed cryptocurrency whose value is stable relative to...
2021-05-1033 min
The NFX PodcastJulia & Kevin Hartz On Taking Eventbrite PublicIn this episode, guests Julia and Kevin Hartz join Kristen O'Brien and Pete Flint to discuss the prerequisites of going public, private vs public companies, and market trends. They delve into the world of SPACs, the process of selecting business partners, and the future of venture capital. The Hartz couple also shares insights on transitioning from executive to CEO, and reframing Eventbrite's business model.
Julia and Kevin Hartz co-founded Eventbrite, a website that allows users to create, share, and join events worldwide. In this episode of the NFX Podcast, the two join NFX Partner Pete Flint to discuss their...
2021-05-0542 min
The NFX PodcastThe 7 Powers with Hamilton Helmer & Jeff LawsonIn this episode, James Currier, Jeff Lawson, and Hamilton Helmer delve into the importance of defensibility, the 7 Powers of strategy, and the role of inventiveness. They discuss network economies using Uber as a case study, examine scale economies, and explore the concept of Counter Positioning. They also discuss the challenges for incumbents adapting to new business models, the power of branding, and cornered resources. The episode ends with insights on process power and developing entrepreneurial power.
In this special NFX Podcast episode, Jeff Lawson (Co-Founder & CEO at Twilio) interviews Hamilton Helmer to analyze the 7 Powers, getting at the core...
2021-04-2936 min
The NFX PodcastAusten Allred (Co-Founder of Lambda School) & James Currier (NFX) on The New American DreamIn this episode, James Currier, Austen Allred, and Kristen O'Brien discuss the societal pressures of higher education and the American Dream. They explore Lambda School's role in reshaping education, and the importance of aligning school incentives with student success. The trio compares international education systems, particularly Germany's, and the history and future of online education. They delve into the role of community in education, misunderstood aspects of startup success, and future educational decisions for today's five-year-olds. They wrap up by predicting future job markets.
The new American dream is underway. The current US educational industrial complex is not serving...
2021-04-2232 min
The NFX PodcastThe Founders' List: Gigi Levy-Weiss on "How VCs Think: The Psychology That Drives Investing Decisions"null
This is The Founders’ List – audio versions of essays from technology’s most important leaders, selected by the founder community.
"For a startup, understanding VCs’ mindsets is often as important as understanding the mindsets of your customers. With no capital most Founders will not win, so you’d better learn the language."
VCs speak a different language, one that Founders must learn to be able to raise capital. Understand the psychological drivers and use them to evaluate your counterpart’s state of mind. And repeat the core narratives: we are low risk; we will be huge; oth...
2021-04-1513 min
The NFX PodcastA Proposal to Jack & Zuck: Chris Anderson (ex-WIRED) & James Currier on Regulating Social MediaIn this episode, James Currier and Chris Anderson delve into the complexities of regulating social media, discussing the role of likes, extreme content, and the potential impact of nationalization on large companies like Facebook. They also explore the challenges faced by rapidly growing firms like Robinhood and address root algorithmic causes in tech companies.
The usual Silicon Valley response to regulation is to offer self-regulation instead — but only tech companies have the skills and speed to fix what they broke, unable to manage the influence over the public sphere they attained almost by accident.
Unless the few wh...
2021-04-1247 min
The NFX PodcastGaming Superpowers for Non-Game Founders with Gabi Shalel (Plarium) & Gigi Levy-Weissnull
Gabi Shalel is an amazing games founder - he understands the type of innovation, fast iteration, and quality required to create a successful games company. These things are also very valuable for every founder, every startup.
So today, NFX General Partner Gigi Levy-Weiss talks to Gabi about the lessons he's learned from starting, growing, and selling Plarium for $500M that other founders can take and apply to their own startups, including:
- Psychology of ultra-fast iterations- People and Hiring- Pivoting- Social in your product- Conversion tactics
2021-03-1750 min
The NFX PodcastThe Founders' List: Pete Flint on "How to Manage Hypercompetitive Markets"null
This is The Founders' List - audio versions of essays from technology’s most important leaders, selected by the founder community.
Inside the war rooms of companies locked in the battle for market leadership is an atmosphere of voracious competition. The stakes are high because whoever emerges on top can shape the future of an entire industry. It takes this competitive spirit to drive true innovation at scale, and the reality is that it’s often very cutthroat.
Pete Flint (General Partner at NFX) shares 7 key strategies he has identified to help Founders manage a hy...
2021-03-0414 min
The NFX PodcastVitalik Buterin on Space, Longevity, Mars & More ("The B- Side" with Morgan Beller)Today we’re releasing the B-Side of our conversation with Vitalik Buterin, highlighting what may look strangely different in the coming decades. Here’s what great Founders know that others do not: What seems weird today may actually be signal of an outsized opportunity ahead.Last week, Vitalik and I took a synchronous-but-separate walk together for 3 hours. I was in San Francisco at 4 pm and Vitalik was in Singapore at 8 am the next day, living in the future in more ways than one.Read the full NFX Essay here - https://www.nfx.com/post/vitalik-buterin-the-b-sides/
2021-02-1822 min
The NFX PodcastVitalik Buterin on Space, Longevity, Mars & More ("The B- Side" with Morgan Beller)null
Today we’re releasing the B-Side of our conversation with Vitalik Buterin, highlighting what may look strangely different in the coming decades. Here’s what great Founders know that others do not: What seems weird today may actually be signal of an outsized opportunity ahead.
Last week, Vitalik and I took a synchronous-but-separate walk together for 3 hours. I was in San Francisco at 4 pm and Vitalik was in Singapore at 8 am the next day, living in the future in more ways than one.
Read the full NFX Essay here - https://www.nfx.com/post...
2021-02-1822 min
The NFX PodcastVitalik Buterin on The Revolt of the Public ("The A-Side" with Morgan Beller)Today we’re releasing the “A-Side” of a conversation with Vitalik Buterin, known as the creator of Ethereum and is a force behind much of the crypto movement. Vitalik shares his unique points of view on politics, crypto, Americanism, GameStop, and Wall Street Bets, Tesla, China, privacy, The Revolt of the Public, the decentralization of finance and so much more.But Vitalik is much more than just crypto. He is a close friend with a rare ability to see the present and future in a way few others do. With technology now at the forefront of societ...
2021-02-1648 min
The NFX PodcastVitalik Buterin on The Revolt of the Public ("The A-Side" with Morgan Beller)null
Today we’re releasing the “A-Side” of a conversation with Vitalik Buterin, known as the creator of Ethereum and is a force behind much of the crypto movement.
Vitalik shares his unique points of view on politics, crypto, Americanism, GameStop, and Wall Street Bets, Tesla, China, privacy, The Revolt of the Public, the decentralization of finance and so much more.
But Vitalik is much more than just crypto. He is a close friend with a rare ability to see the present and future in a way few others do. With technology now at the forefr...
2021-02-1648 min
The NFX PodcastAdam Grant on Anti-Patterns of 10x Thinking with Pete Flint"Doubt what you know, be curious about what you don't, and update your views based on new data."NFX partner Pete Flint recently got together with organizational psychologist and bestselling author Adam Grant to discuss his new book, Think Again, about the counterintuitive and competitive advantages of rethinking.Adam and Pete share the frameworks for:- Rethinking vs. Contrarian Thinking- Techniques from the World’s Best Superforecasters- Jeff Bezos’s 2×2 Decision Framework- The Top Killers of Co-founder Relationships- Why Confident Humility Is A Founder Superpower- & more
2021-02-0440 minThe NFX PodcastAdam Grant on Anti-Patterns of 10x Thinking with Pete Flint"Doubt what you know, be curious about what you don't, and update your views based on new data."NFX partner Pete Flint recently got together with organizational psychologist and bestselling author Adam Grant to discuss his new book, Think Again, about the counterintuitive and competitive advantages of rethinking.Adam and Pete share the frameworks for:- Rethinking vs. Contrarian Thinking- Techniques from the World’s Best Superforecasters- Jeff Bezos’s 2×2 Decision Framework- The Top Killers of Co-founder Relationships- Why Confident Humility Is A Founder Superpower- & more
2021-02-0440 min
The NFX PodcastAdam Grant on Anti-Patterns of 10x Thinking with Pete Flintnull
"Doubt what you know, be curious about what you don't, and update your views based on new data."
NFX partner Pete Flint recently got together with organizational psychologist and bestselling author Adam Grant to discuss his new book, Think Again, about the counterintuitive and competitive advantages of rethinking.
Adam and Pete share the frameworks for:- Rethinking vs. Contrarian Thinking- Techniques from the World’s Best Superforecasters- Jeff Bezos’s 2×2 Decision Framework- The Top Killers of Co-founder Relationships- Why Confident Humility Is A Founder Superpower...
2021-02-0440 min
The NFX PodcastLaunching NFX Bio and The Rise of the Scientist FounderToday we're announcing NFX Bio, a new fund initiative led by some of biotech's most successful Founder/CEOs. Our mission is to back seed-stage companies building bio-platforms that solve the biggest challenges facing humanity.NFX Bio is led by Omri Amirav Drory, Ph.D., Founder/CEO of Genome Compiler (acquired by Twist Bioscience). Joining him on the Investment Committee is Emily LeProust, Ph.D., Co-Founder & CEO of Twist Bioscience (TWST - NASDAQ), as well as NFX GP's James Currier and Gigi Levy-Weiss.By combining software/data tech with biology, and by architecting businesses with a platform...
2021-02-0224 minThe NFX PodcastLaunching NFX Bio and The Rise of the Scientist FounderToday we're announcing NFX Bio, a new fund initiative led by some of biotech's most successful Founder/CEOs. Our mission is to back seed-stage companies building bio-platforms that solve the biggest challenges facing humanity.NFX Bio is led by Omri Amirav Drory, Ph.D., Founder/CEO of Genome Compiler (acquired by Twist Bioscience). Joining him on the Investment Committee is Emily LeProust, Ph.D., Co-Founder & CEO of Twist Bioscience (TWST - NASDAQ), as well as NFX GP's James Currier and Gigi Levy-Weiss.By combining software/data tech with biology, and by architecting businesses with a platform...
2021-02-0224 min
The NFX PodcastLaunching NFX Bio and The Rise of the Scientist Foundernull
Today we're announcing NFX Bio, a new fund initiative led by some of biotech's most successful Founder/CEOs. Our mission is to back seed-stage companies building bio-platforms that solve the biggest challenges facing humanity.
NFX Bio is led by Omri Amirav Drory, Ph.D., Founder/CEO of Genome Compiler (acquired by Twist Bioscience). Joining him on the Investment Committee is Emily LeProust, Ph.D., Co-Founder & CEO of Twist Bioscience (TWST - NASDAQ), as well as NFX GP's James Currier and Gigi Levy-Weiss.
By combining software/data tech with biology, and by architecting businesses with...
2021-02-0224 min
The NFX PodcastThe Founders' List: James Currier (General Partner at NFX) on "The Psychology of Startup Growth"null
This is The Founders' List - audio versions of essays from technology’s most important leaders, selected by the founder community.
This essay was written and published by James Currier, General Partner at NFX.
Read the full article here: https://www.nfx.com/post/psychology-startup-growth/
2021-01-2809 min
The NFX PodcastThe Founders' List: James Currier (General Partner at NFX) on "The Psychology of Startup Growth"This is The Founders' List - audio versions of essays from technology’s most important leaders, selected by the founder community.This essay was written and published by James Currier, General Partner at NFX. Read the full article here: https://www.nfx.com/post/psychology-startup-growth/
2021-01-2809 minThe NFX PodcastThe Founders' List: James Currier (General Partner at NFX) on "The Psychology of Startup Growth"This is The Founders' List - audio versions of essays from technology’s most important leaders, selected by the founder community.This essay was written and published by James Currier, General Partner at NFX. Read the full article here: https://www.nfx.com/post/psychology-startup-growth/
2021-01-2809 min
The NFX PodcastThe Founders' List: David Skok on "Scalable Pricing A Key Tool For SaaS Success" (Pricing Series)null
This is The Founders' List - audio versions of essays from technology’s most important leaders, selected by the founder community.
Alongside our latest NFX Essay "The Hidden World of Pricing: Uber, Trulia, Etsy, Superhuman & More with Madhavan Ramanujam", we decided to release multiple supplemental pricing articles on The Founders' List.
David Skok joined Matrix Partners as a General Partner in May 2001. He has a wealth of experience running companies. David started his first company in 1977 at age 22. Since then David has founded a total of four separate companies and performed one turn-around. Three of...
2021-01-2609 min
The NFX PodcastThe Founders' List: Tomasz Tunguz on "Ten Years Worth of Learnings About Pricing" & "There are Only 3 Pricing Strategies for Younull
This is The Founders' List - audio versions of essays from technology’s most important leaders, selected by the founder community.
Alongside our latest NFX Essay "The Hidden World of Pricing: Uber, Trulia, Etsy, Superhuman & More with Madhavan Ramanujam", we decided to release multiple supplemental pricing articles on The Founders' List.
This is a two-part episode including two essays from Tomasz Tunguz (Venture Capitalist at Redpoint). He is also a board member of Looker, ERPLY, Electric imp, inc., AxialMarket, Quantifind, Expensify, and more. Prior to joining Redpoint, Tomasz was the product manager for Google's so...
2021-01-2607 min
The NFX PodcastThe Founders' List: Sean Ellis on "How to Determine the Optimal Price for Your Web Service" (Pricing Series)null
This is The Founders' List - audio versions of essays from technology’s most important leaders, selected by the founder community.
Alongside our latest NFX Essay "The Hidden World of Pricing: Uber, Trulia, Etsy, Superhuman & More with Madhavan Ramanujam", we decided to release supplemental pricing articles on The Founders' List.
Sean Ellis is an entrepreneur, angel investor, and startup advisor. He is the CEO of GrowthHackers and was previously founder and CEO of Qualaroo, an automated user research tool. He attended the University of California, Davis and graduated in 1994.
"An optimal price al...
2021-01-2606 min
The NFX PodcastThe Founders' List: Ash Maurya on "My Experiments in Lean Pricing" (Pricing Series)null
This is The Founders' List - audio versions of essays from technology’s most important leaders, selected by the founder community.
Alongside our latest NFX Essay "The Hidden World of Pricing: Uber, Trulia, Etsy, Superhuman & More with Madhavan Ramanujam", we decided to release supplemental pricing articles on The Founders' List.
Ash Maurya is the author of Running Lean and the creator of the one-page business modelling tool Lean Canvas. His posts and advice have been featured in Inc., Forbes, and Fortune. He regularly hosts sold out workshops around the world and serves as a me...
2021-01-2610 min
The NFX PodcastThe Founders' List: David Skok on "Scalable Pricing A Key Tool For SaaS Success" (Pricing Series)This is The Founders' List - audio versions of essays from technology’s most important leaders, selected by the founder community.Alongside our latest NFX Essay "The Hidden World of Pricing: Uber, Trulia, Etsy, Superhuman & More with Madhavan Ramanujam", we decided to release multiple supplemental pricing articles on The Founders' List.David Skok joined Matrix Partners as a General Partner in May 2001. He has a wealth of experience running companies. David started his first company in 1977 at age 22. Since then David has founded a total of four separate companies and performed one turn-around. Three of these co...
2021-01-2609 min
The NFX PodcastThe Decision Frameworks Behind Fiverr's Success with Micha Kaufman and Gigi Levy-Weissnull
Founders rarely get to hear the inside story of building a massive marketplace business from idea to IPO. Today we analyze the core startup decisions you need to make in the early days about your market, product, pricing and customers — and how those early decisions define your roadmap for the next 10 years or more.
Today NFX General Partner Gigi Levy-Weiss sits down and has a conversation with Micha Kaufman, the Founder and CEO of Fiverr (FVRR). Fiverr’s stock price has soared since their 2019 IPO — posting an impressive 797% growth since last year — but this conversation makes evident...
2020-12-1750 min
The NFX PodcastThe Unusual Signs of a Billion Dollar Company with Elad Gil & James Curriernull
Can your company be a Billion-dollar business? When we look inside the early days of companies like Stripe, Airbnb, Coinbase, Instacart & Square, what are the patterns that may shed light on how great Founders beat incredible odds?
In this episode of the NFX podcast, Elad Gil — one of the world's top angel investors in an astonishing number of Billion-dollar companies (Airbnb, Airtable, Anduril, Brex, Checkr, Coinbase, Flexport, Gitlab, Gusto, Instacart, Opendoor, PagerDuty, Pinterest, Samsara, Square, Stripe, & Wish) and cofounder of ColorGenomics— joins NFX partner James Currier to unearth what makes certain Founders and teams exponentially better.
2020-11-2335 min
The NFX PodcastThe Founders’ List: “Don't Believe Your Own B.S.” by Pete Flint (General Partner at NFX)null
This is The Founders' List - audio versions of essays from technology’s most important leaders, selected by the founder community.
"Superpowers cut both ways. They may spur meteoric growth, but without enough self-awareness, they can just as easily lead to a startup’s undoing." As a founder, it's important to be your startup’s biggest advocate, but it’s also important to create strong self-awareness and rise above your own ego. Listen as Pete Flint explains how to detect your own B.S. and allow your company to succeed. Pete is a general partner at NFX.
2020-10-2216 min
The NFX PodcastGood vs. Great Companies: The Unseen Truths of Breakout Success with James Currier & Selina Tobaccowalanull
NFX partner James Currier talks with Selina Tobaccowala - co-founder of Evite, CTO and President of SurveyMonkey, and cofounder of the fitness app Gixo. It’s rare to get a candid view into what happens behind the scenes of companies that break out from the pack - and the hard decisions that lead to their success. In this episode, James and Selina talk about:
- Knowing when and how to sell your company- The difference between selling Evite vs. selling Gixo- Why to build strategic relationships as early as possible- Ho...
2020-09-211h 03
The NFX PodcastThe Founders' List: James Currier (Managing Partner at NFX) on "The Psychology of Founders Who Win in Downturns"null
This is The Founders' List - audio versions of essays from technology’s most important leaders, selected by the founder community.
This essay was written and published by James Currier, General Partner at NFX. Read the full article here:
https://www.nfx.com/post/psychology-winning-founders-downturns/
2020-09-1804 min
The NFX PodcastThe Founders' List: James Currier (Managing Partner at NFX) on "Building Strong Companies with The No Politics Rule"null
This is The Founders' List - audio versions of essays from technology’s most important leaders, selected by the founder community.
This essay was written and published by James Currier, General Partner at NFX. Read the full article here:
https://www.nfx.com/post/building-strong-companies-the-no-politics-rule/
2020-08-2504 min
The NFX PodcastCraig Newmark on Building Craigslist, Teamwork, & The Golden Rulenull
At NFX, we dig into network effects companies and their founding stories, so we emailed Craig Newmark, the founder of Craigslist.
Craigslist is the purest example of a 2-sided network effect and has remained stronger than ever for the past 20+ years. NFX partner James Currier had a chance to sit down with Craig to talk and catch up.
Craig handed over the operations of Craigslist in 2000 and is now more focused on his philanthropy, but when we catch up, we get to discuss his mental models for business and for life. Just like the...
2020-08-1311 min
The NFX PodcastSteve Blank on "Don't Waste A Good Crisis"null
Speed is often the secret weapon, especially when adjusting to and tackling a crisis.
Credited with launching the Lean Startup movement, eight-time entrepreneur-turned-educator Steve Blank joins NFX partner James Currier and shares counterintuitive advice for how startups should be thinking right now. Steve says "don't waste a good crisis" and discusses how to find opportunity in disruption. He's changed how startups are built, how entrepreneurship is taught, how science is commercialized, and how companies and the government innovate.
Startups specifically need to speed up and put the pedal to the metal. It’s tough lo...
2020-08-0521 min
The NFX PodcastApril Underwood shares the Product Thinking That Built Slack & Twitternull
Twitter and Slack are two of technology’s most talked-about companies. They are both category-defining products marked by hypergrowth, each amassing a large base of deeply loyal users and a valuation of more than $20B.
But Founders rarely get access to the product decisions being made behind the scenes, or the strategy and frameworks that guided them.
April Underwood was instrumental at both companies, first as Director of Product at Twitter and then as Chief Product Officer at Slack. She is a powerhouse product leader with an unusual depth of experience in growing both B2...
2020-07-141h 01
The NFX PodcastKeith Rabois on how Contrarians Think: The Early Days of Square, Yelp, & PayPalnull
In this episode of the NFX Podcast, Keith Rabois and James Currier examine the rule deviation behind some of technology's greatest startup feats — PayPal, Square, Yelp, and even Apple, Tesla, and SpaceX.
They discuss:- The 5 People You Spend the Most Time With: It's easy to be a contrarian. It's hard to be right. What are the environmental and psychological factors needed to really think for yourself?- The Extreme 1% of the Bell Curve: A framework for rule deviation that leads to invention, not replication.- Being a Founder is Like Chewing Glass: Th...
2020-06-301h 03
The NFX PodcastRahul Vohra shares the Frameworks Behind Superhuman (NFX Keynote Episode)null
Rahul is the founder and CEO of Superhuman where he and his team are building the fastest email experience in the world. Before Superhuman, Rahul founded Rapportive, which was acquired by LinkedIn in 2014.
We’re bringing you an NFX Keynote podcast that gives you a deep dive into Rahul Vohra’s mind. His strategic thinking on product-market fit is verging on legendary, and in this episode, Rahul shares his biggest learnings about customer onboarding, why products should be designed like games, and the frameworks he wants every founder to know about pricing and positioning.
www...
2020-06-1822 min
The NFX PodcastThe Google of Biology: Meet the Company that is Reading & Writing the Code of Lifenull
Biology is the new frontier.
At NFX, we’ve been investing in this space. And in this episode of the NFX podcast, we talk to Trevor Martin, the CEO and Co-Founder of Mammoth Biosciences, an NFX company, that is now the largest repository of CRISPR IP in the world. They are developing the Google of biology where they will help anyone find what they are looking for in the genome.
They are also working on a rapid COVID-19 test that uses CRISPR. Today we will talk about the cutting edge of what’s happening and...
2020-06-0942 min
The NFX PodcastJosh Elman & James Currier on the Arrival of the Next Social EraIn this episode, Kristin O'Brien, James Currier, and Josh Elman delve into the evolution of social media, its current state, and future opportunities. They share valuable advice for early-stage founders in social media startups, discuss the transition from Meerkat to House Party, and the growth of Discord. The conversation emphasizes the importance of humanity in technology, psychology in startup innovation, and constant product evolution.
Today Josh Elman & James Currier discuss the history of social media, where it is today, and the next wave of social companies that may be a result of the current lockdown situation. Due to the...
2020-05-0555 min
The NFX PodcastHow Reid Hoffman & James Currier See the Path Ahead for Founders during The Great ResetIn this episode, James Currier, Reid Hoffman, and Kristin O'Brien discuss decision-making strategies during layoffs, unlearning and adapting in crises, and post-crisis financing strategies. They also explore changes in human behavior due to the pandemic, startup opportunities in a changing landscape, and the future of work. The role of cultural entrepreneurship and Silicon Valley's pandemic response are also discussed.
Today Reid Hoffman & James Currier discuss the path ahead for Founders in a post-COVID world. What you need to learn and unlearn to get your company through a crisis, frameworks for the tough decisions Founders are facing today and the...
2020-04-1633 min
The NFX PodcastDavid Sacks shares how PayPal & Trulia Navigated DownturnsIn this episode, Kristin O'Brien, Pete Flint, and David Sacks discuss leading through challenging times, navigating disruption, and the importance of adaptability. They delve into crisis management, the economic impact on startups and VC investments, and the role of paranoia in survival. Insights on wartime CEOs and the response of Silicon Valley to COVID-19 are also shared. The episode concludes with potential long-term pandemic impacts, highlighting the rise of edtech and healthtech.
Today we’re talking with David Sacks & Pete Flint about how to lead a company through an unforeseen downturn, and what it takes to adapt and survive in...
2020-04-0745 min
The NFX PodcastStacy Brown-Philpot on Leading Startups Through UncertaintyIn this episode, Pete Flint chats with Stacey Brown-Philpot, CEO of Task Rabbit, about leadership, company culture, and handling crises. They delve into TaskRabbit's evolution, community engagement, marketplace balancing, and tackling disintermediation. They also discuss geographic expansion, pricing strategies, and their IKEA acquisition. Lastly, they explore the gig economy's evolution, its regulation, and the impact of the COVID crisis.
TaskRabbit invented the gig-economy in 2008 with a marketplace that matches freelance labor with local demand for everyday tasks. Stacy Brown-Philpot became CEO of TaskRabbit in 2016 and led the company through its acquisition by IKEA in 2017.
In this episode...
2020-03-1836 min
The NFX PodcastHow Iman Abuzeid (CEO of Incredible Health) Raised Venture CapitalIn this episode, James Currier talks with Iman Abuzeid about the role of structured thinking in problem-solving and fundraising. They discuss the importance of controlling the fundraising process, common errors in pitching, the evolution of pitch decks, and how to navigate term sheets. The conversation also covers financial model adjustments, key SaaS metrics, and the psychology of fundraising.
After raising venture capital from NFX, Andreessen Horowitz, Obvious Ventures, and Precursor Ventures, CEO & Co-Founder Iman Abudzaid made her fundraising learnings, methodology, and frameworks public for the benefit of Founders everywhere.
Topics discussed with Iman include:
When...
2020-01-2924 min
The NFX PodcastHow Marco Zappacosta (Founder & CEO of Thumbtack) Built a Billion Dollar MarketplaceIn this episode, Pete Flint converses with Marco Zappacosta and Kristen O'Brien on the growth and evolution of Craigslist and Thumbtack. They discuss the importance of liquidity and network effects in marketplaces, the misapplication of Uber's model, and the future of human capital in marketplaces. They also delve into leadership, fundraising, competition, and the future of online-offline interaction.
Marco Zappacosta (Co-founder & CEO of Thumbtack) talks with Pete Flint (NFX & founder of Trulia) about what it takes to build a billion-dollar marketplace and the lessons he's uncovered along the journey.
They discuss how they solved the chicken & egg...
2019-11-1154 min
The NFX PodcastThe Founder List: 16 Non-Obvious Fundraising Lessons On Pitching (James Currier, Partner at NFX)null
As Founders ourselves, we started 10 venture-backed companies that exited for over $10 Billion. During that time as Founders and now as VCs, we’ve seen 16 counterintuitive lessons in pitching VCs that increase your odds of success. Today we’re sharing them for the benefit of the entire founder community.
Learn more at - www.nfx.com
Start your Company Brief at - www.thecompanybrief.com
2019-10-2823 min
The NFX PodcastThe Founder List: The Psychology Of Startup Growth (James Currier, Partner at NFX)Growth comes from adopting the right psychology. The right mindset. From an approach you bring to your daily work consistently for years. In this episode of The NFX Podcast, James Currier shares the five hallmarks of high-performance growth psychology.
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To read our essay on the The Psychology Of Startup Growth, visit -https://www.nfx.com/post/psychology-startup-growth
To read more NFX Essays visit - www.nfx.com
2019-08-2200 min
The NFX PodcastThe Founder List: The Hidden Patterns to Great Startup Ideas (James Currier, Partner at NFX)In this episode, James Currier delves into the conceptualization and refinement of startup ideas. He introduces five key frameworks, including leveraging technological shifts and balancing market risk versus execution risk. The episode concludes with case studies on companies managing different risk types.
It’s often said that success is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration. We disagree. This might be true at later stages, but at the initial stage of a startup, the core idea makes a huge difference. Small changes in your initial idea/direction will make a big difference to where you end up. In this episode of The NFX Po...
2019-08-2208 min
The NFX PodcastThe Founder List: 9 Habits of World Class Startups (James Currier, Partner at NFX)In this episode, James Currier delves into the fundamentals of running a successful startup. He discusses the nine habits of world-class startups and explores the power of storytelling with Morgan Beller. The conversation also touches on the "11 of 13" rule, the significance of language, the necessity to test and iterate, and how to spot major changes in crucial metrics.
Startups that grow into transformative companies do two things: (1) they nail the basics and (2) they cultivate the right habits (core operating principles). In this episode of The NFX Podcast, James Currier lists 9 habits that get investors to lean in and take...
2019-08-2209 min
The NFX PodcastManish Chandra (Founder & CEO) shares The Poshmark StoryIn this episode, Manish Chandra, founder of Poshmark, joins James Currier to discuss his experience building and scaling Poshmark. They delve into overcoming operational challenges, the importance of social commerce, and the company's unique business philosophy. The conversation also touches on fundraising, team development, and Poshmark's future plans.
They were rejected by 200+ investors. They were turned down by every single payment processor in the country. They discovered they were in violation of USPS regulations, and almost ran out of money.
Yet today, Poshmark is one of the most successful marketplaces of all time.
Be on...
2019-06-1849 min
The NFX PodcastThe Founder List: Inside the Marketplace of Uber (James Currier, Partner at NFX)In this episode, James Currier discusses the key learnings from Uber's success, emphasizing the importance of speed, product defensibility, and strategic use of capital in startups. He underscores the role of a big vision and the power of language and naming in business.
James Currier of NFX outlines 5 important lessons you can learn from Uber and their growth over the last 10 years.
Check out our past Inside the Marketplace episode on Lyft here - https://soundcloud.com/nfxpodcast/idea-to-ipo-lyft-vs-uber-and-the-battle-for-ridesharing-dominance
(0:00) Introduction to the episode: Learning from Uber's success
(0:31) The significance of speed and aggressiveness in startups
(2:45) Focusing...
2019-05-0211 min
The NFX PodcastInside the Marketplace of Lyft with James Currier & Pete Flint (NFX Partners)In this episode, Pete Flint and James Currier discuss the Lyft IPO, comparing the ridesharing market to the airline industry and exploring Lyft's expansion into scooters. They delve into the future of autonomous vehicles, supply side innovation, and the influence of Wall Street on company strategies. They also touch on the importance of founders' control and Lyft's potential dominance in smaller markets.
Pete Flint & James Currier of NFX discuss Lyft's upcoming IPO, the defensibility of the ridesharing business model, and what Lyft should do next.
Check out our past Inside the Marketplace episode on Lyft here...
2019-03-2533 min