Shows
Bee Formless™ Flow Driven CEOFuelling innovation & when the pressure spikes, do you risk or retreat? | Viktor OrlovskiIn this episode of the Bee Formless™ Flow-Driven VC Podcast, I had an innovation-led, high-flow conversation with Victor Orlovski about life, leadership, business, and investing, and what it takes to build, transform, and make tough calls under pressure in a rapidly changing world.Through the Bee Formless™ methodology, we explored:LEARN (Letting go)✨ Risk or Retreat? Making tough decisions under intense pressure✨ From Corporate to Venture: Letting go to build companies and innovateUNLEARN (Reimagine & reshape)✨ Venture Capital’s Role: Fuelling innovation in tech & society to reshape the future✨ Redefining Success: Ambit...
2026-02-1046 min
The Full Ratchet (TFR): Venture Capital and Startup Investing DemystifiedInvestor Stories 458: Anti Portfolio Lessons: Netflix by Mail, Palantir at the Wrong Price, and the Cost of Price Sensitivity (Madera, Bussgang, Orlovski) On this special segment of The Full Ratchet, the following Investors are featured: Paul Madera of Meritech Capital Jeff Bussgang of Flybridge Capital Victor Orlovski of R136 Ventures Each investor highlights a situation where they decided not to invest, why they passed, and how it played out. The host of The Full Ratchet is Nick Moran of New Stack Ventures, a venture capital firm committed to investing in founders outside of the Bay Area. We're proud to partner with Ramp, the modern finance auto...
2026-02-0909 min
Ventures from The ValleyThe Scientist Turned VC Funding the Cure for Aging with Omri Amirav-DroryWhat if aging isn’t inevitable — but a solvable problem?And what if the biggest opportunity in healthcare isn’t treating disease, but preventing it entirely?In this episode of Ventures from the Valley, I sit down with Omri Amirav-Drory, General Partner at NFX, to explore one of the most ambitious frontiers in venture capital: longevity, biotech, and the intersection of biology and technology.Omri leads pre-seed and seed investments at NFX and focuses on what he believes is the ultimate mission — ending involuntary death. We talk openly about why aging is the root cause be...
2026-02-041h 00
The Rise and Fall of TrustBuilding Trust in Venture Capital: Leadership When No One Is Watching with Victor OrlovskiWhat does real trust look like when pressure hits, incentives shift, and no one is watching?In this episode, venture capitalist Victor Orlovski, founder of R136 Ventures and host of Ventures from the Valley, shares the raw reality of trust in the high-stakes world of startup investing. After backing a promising European startup through years of growth and nearly closing a major acquisition, Victor watched helplessly as the founders executed a legal but devastating betrayal.He reveals how that experience influenced his entire approach to venture capital, shifting his focus from...
2026-01-2135 min
Ventures from The ValleyHow Uber’s Playbook Shaped Blockchain.com’s Growth Strategy With Lane KasselmanMost people think disruption is about technology.In reality, it’s about winning inside chaos, regulation, and imperfect systems — before the rules catch up.In this episode of Ventures from the Valley, I sit down with Lane Kasselman, President of Blockchain.com and one of the earliest executives at Uber, to unpack what it truly takes to scale category-defining companies in the most regulated environments on earth.We talk candidly about how Uber forced regulation to follow adoption, how that mindset carried into Blockchain.com, and why the next crypto cycle will look fundamentally diff...
2026-01-081h 04
Ventures from The ValleyHow Uber’s Playbook Shaped Blockchain.com’s Growth Strategy With Lane KasselmanMost people think disruption is about technology.In reality, it’s about winning inside chaos, regulation, and imperfect systems — before the rules catch up.In this episode of Ventures from the Valley, I sit down with Lane Kasselman, President of Blockchain.com and one of the earliest executives at Uber, to unpack what it truly takes to scale category-defining companies in the most regulated environments on earth.We talk candidly about how Uber forced regulation to follow adoption, how that mindset carried into Blockchain.com, and why the...
2026-01-081h 04
Ventures from The ValleyHow Smart Founders Raise Capital in 2026 (VC Reality Check)Most founders believe venture capital is a game of who can raise the largest round. But the real game is different: pick the right market, build something defensible, and create a business that doesn’t burn through capital just to stay alive. Jeff Weinstein is a partner at FJ Labs, one of the world’s most active early-stage investors. The firm has backed more than 1,000 companies with over $500 million under management. Unlike traditional venture firms that deliberate for weeks, FJ Labs moves fast, invests globally, and says no to most deals. In our conversation, Weinstein walks...
2025-12-101h 09
Ventures from The ValleyHow Smart Founders Raise Capital in 2026 (VC Reality Check)Most founders believe venture capital is a game of who can raise the largest round. But the real game is different: pick the right market, build something defensible, and create a business that doesn’t burn through capital just to stay alive. Jeff Weinstein is a partner at FJ Labs, one of the world’s most active early-stage investors. The firm has backed more than 1,000 companies with over $500 million under management. Unlike traditional venture firms that deliberate for weeks, FJ Labs moves fast, invests globally, and says no to most deals. In our...
2025-12-101h 09
Around The CoinWill Agentic AI Define The Future? - Victor Orlovski | ATC #586Join host Stephen Sargeant on the Around The Coin podcast, as he interviews Victor Orlovski, General Partner at R136 Ventures. Victor shares his unconventional journey from being a CTO of a major European bank to founding R136 Ventures, a firm focused on early growth stage FinTech and B2B enterprise startups. In this episode, Victor discusses the challenges and strategies for scaling startups, the rapid adoption of stablecoins in developing countries, and the future of AI in various industries. Learn how Victor identifies potential investment opportunities and his unique approach to supporting founders. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a...
2025-11-191h 13Around the CoinWill Agentic AI Define The Future? - Victor Orlovski | ATC #586Join host Stephen Sargeant on the Around The Coin podcast, as he interviews Victor Orlovski, General Partner at R136 Ventures. Victor shares his unconventional journey from being a CTO of a major European bank to founding R136 Ventures, a firm focused on early growth stage FinTech and B2B enterprise startups. In this episode, Victor discusses the challenges and strategies for scaling startups, the rapid adoption of stablecoins in developing countries, and the future of AI in various industries. Learn how Victor identifies potential investment opportunities and his unique approach to supporting founders. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a...
2025-11-191h 13
Ventures from The ValleyHow China Actually Builds Tech Giants with Mark GreevenWhat makes China’s innovators and entrepreneurs so relentlessly driven, and how is their ecosystem mindset redefining global innovation, investment, and AI development?In this episode of Ventures from the Valley, host Victor Orlovski talks with Mark Greeven, Professor of Management Innovation and Voice on China Innovation, and Dean at IMD Business School, to unpack the mindset that is powering China’s innovation revolution. Drawing from over two decades of on-the-ground experience, Mark explores how Chinese entrepreneurs blend fierce competition with deep collaboration to build resilient ecosystems. From the pivotal role of government policy and alumni fund...
2025-11-0553 min
The Full Ratchet (TFR): Venture Capital and Startup Investing Demystified495. From CTO to $500M AUM: Entry Point Discipline, Why People Matter at Every Stage, and the AI-Driven Future of Banking (Victor Orlovski) Victor Orlovski of R136 Ventures joins Nick to discuss From CTO to $500M AUM: Entry Point Discipline, Why People Matter at Every Stage, and the AI-Driven Future of Banking. In this episode we cover: Exit Strategies and Market Challenges Risks and Opportunities in Late-Stage Investments Banking and FinTech Challenges Future of Financial Markets and AI in Banking Impact of AI on Financial Institutions Role of Founders in the AI Era Guest Links: Victor's LinkedIn Victor's X R136's LinkedIn R136's Website The host of...
2025-11-0338 min
Ventures from The ValleyVictor Orlovski on eToro’s $4B IPO: A Masterclass in Timing and ReadinessIn this special episode of Ventures from the Valley, guest host Austen Legler interviews Victor Orlovski, the show’s usual host, for an insider’s look at eToro’s $4B IPO journey. Victor shares key lessons on market timing, organizational readiness, and strategic storytelling. From essential fintech metrics to brand-building and talent retention, this episode offers a masterclass in preparing a company to go public, perfect for VCs, founders, and fintech enthusiasts eyeing the IPO path.What you will learn:How to evaluate market timing vs. company readiness when considering an IPOThe...
2025-10-0828 min
Ventures from The ValleyFrom Startups to Mass Adoption: Blockchain Insights with Aly MadhavjiWhat does it take to spot the next big breakthrough in blockchain? In this episode of Ventures from the Valley, host Victor Orlovski sits down with Aly Madhavji, Managing Partner at Blockchain Founders Fund, to uncover how his team evaluates more than 500 companies every month to identify and support the startups shaping the future of Web3. From navigating unpredictable market cycles to supporting founder success, Aly shares hard-earned insights that challenge traditional investing principles in today’s fast-changing digital economy.What you will learn:How to identify "superhuman" cap...
2025-09-031h 05
Ventures from The ValleyLars Markull on Embedded Finance: the Good, the Bad, and What's NextIn this episode of Ventures from the Valley, host Victor Orlovski sits down with embedded finance expert Lars Markull to explore how non-financial companies can unlock new revenue streams by integrating banking services. They unpack successful case studies, common pitfalls, and the future of embedded finance across regions like Europe, the US, and Asia. From choosing the right infrastructure partners to aligning strategy with customer value, this conversation is a must-listen for business leaders, investors, and financial institutions navigating today’s digital economy.What you will learn:How to identify the three critical elements of...
2025-08-0659 min
Ventures from The ValleyAI, Smart Contracts, and the End of Traditional Banks: Insights from Brett KingIn this episode of Ventures from the Valley, host Victor Orlovski sits down with fintech visionary Brett King to explore how AI, smart contracts, and digital currencies are disrupting global finance. From the decline of traditional banking to the rise of platform-based lending and autonomous finance, King shares bold insights on the future of economic systems. A must-listen for investors and finance professionals navigating the digital revolution reshaping capitalism, regulation, and the very role of money in society.What you will learn:- How AI is transforming banking from branch models to personalized agent-driven financial services
2025-07-091h 01
Ventures from The ValleyJim Pulcrano Breaks Down the Myths of European VCIn this episode of Ventures from the Valley, host Victor talks with Jim Pulcrano, IMD Professor and veteran entrepreneur, about the evolving relationship between European and Silicon Valley venture ecosystems. They explore how cultural differences influence startup growth, investment styles, and innovation strategies. From academic institutions to AI's role in venture capital, the conversation offers sharp insights for investors, founders, and educators seeking to bridge global innovation cultures and prepare for the next wave of tech disruption.What you will learn:How European venture capital has evolved to a mature ecosystem todayWhy Silicon...
2025-06-0459 min
Ventures from The ValleyBrains, Bold Bets & Big Wins: Inaki Berenguer’s Playbook for Startup SuccessIn this episode of Ventures from the Valley, hosts Victor and Tom talk with Inaki Berenguer, a three-time founder and managing partner at LifeX Ventures. Inaki shares his journey from small-town Spain to building and exiting three startups, including CoverWallet. He unpacks strategies for startup growth, selecting the right investors, and navigating co-founder dynamics. The conversation also provides a forward-looking take on how AI transforms science and healthcare, offering powerful insights for founders and investors navigating today’s tech-driven world.What you will learn:How academic excellence can translate into entrepreneurial successThe evolution of startup bu...
2025-05-071h 18
Ventures from The ValleyFrom University Spin-Off to Success: The NetGuardians StoryWelcome to this episode of Ventures From The Valley. Join hosts Victor and Tom as they sit down with NetGuardians co-founders, Joël Winteregg and Raffael Maio, to explore their 15+ year journey from university spin-off to fintech success. They discuss navigating pivots, raising over $40M, scaling internationally, and ultimately selling their company. Whether you're a founder, investor, or fintech enthusiast, this episode offers key lessons on strategic decision-making, co-founder dynamics, and sustainable growth. What you will learn:How to build and maintain a successful co-founder relationship through trust The evolution from university spin-off to market lea...
2025-04-091h 01
Ventures from The ValleyHow Mor Assia Built AI Angels and Transformed Israeli VCWelcome to Ventures From The Valley. In this episode, host Victor Orlovski sits down with Mor Assia, Co-founder and Managing Partner of iAngels, to uncover the secrets behind one of Israel’s top venture capital success stories. From managing $500M in assets to reshaping Israeli VC, Mor shares her journey of balancing innovation, family, and the future of AI in investing. Tune in for insider insights on building a thriving investment platform and navigating the Israeli startup ecosystem like a pro.Together, they discuss:Early Years: Growing Up in Israel's Tech EcosystemFounding iAngels: De...
2025-02-121h 25
Ventures from The ValleyWhy Venture Capital Outperforms Other Investments with Ilya Strebulaev of StanfordIn this episode of Ventures from the Valley, host Victor Orlovski sits down with Ilya Strebulaev, The David S. Lobel Professor of Private Equity and Professor of Finance at the Stanford Graduate School of Business.Together, they discuss:Why venture capital shows a clear indication of alphaWhat factors have made Silicon Valley the epicenter of venture capitalThe emergence of new innovation hubs across the U.S. and globallyWhat impact will AI have on investment trendsThe future of venture capitalIlya is a renowned expert in venture capital, private equity, and entrepreneurial finance. As...
2025-01-151h 13
Ventures from The ValleyIs AI the New Warren Buffet of Trading? With Damián Scavo of StreetbeatIn this episode of Ventures from the Valley, host Victor Orlovski sits down with Damián Scavo, CEO and CIO of Streetbeat.Together, they discuss: How AI is transforming personal and corporate financial decision-makingThe increasing dominance of algorithmic and HFT in financial marketsWill professional traders survive the AI revolution?What the US fintech can learn from the UK and AsiaWhy tokenization is the next big thing in fintechWhen will AGI hit our lives?Will AGI be free for all or co...
2024-12-041h 16
Ventures from The ValleyFrom Knives to SaaS: Building, Scaling, and Exiting with Jim Kolchin of iWalletIn this episode of Ventures from the Valley, host Victor Orlovski sits down with Jim Kolchin, a serial entrepreneur and founder of iWallet.Together, they discuss: Early lessons in entrepreneurship from Jim’s Soviet daysHow Silicon Valley and successful exits sharpened Jim’s approachThe shift from hardware to software and SaaS as scalable business modelsThe challenges of changing consumer habits and succeeding in the payment space without external fundingJim Kolchin is the CEO and Co-Founder of iWallet, a thriving payments platform he’s bootstrapped to multimi...
2024-11-0652 min
Ventures from The ValleyAI Integration: The Future of Venture Capital with Dr. Mohammad Rasouli and Philipp Reineke of AIx2In this episode of Ventures from the Valley, our host Victor Orlovski is joined by Dr. Mohammad Rasouli, Founder and CEO at AIx2, and Philipp Reineke, Co-founder and COO at AIx2. Together they discuss: The competitive landscape of AI researchThe evolving role of AI in venture capitalFuture trends in AIPredictive capabilitiesThe intersection of AI and alternative investmentsDr. Mohammad Rasouli is the Founder and CEO of AIx2, a company that empowers alternative investment funds through cutting-edge generative and predictive AI. Their advanced technology enhances due diligence, uncovers direct opportunities, and delivers s...
2024-10-0254 min
Ventures from The ValleyNeuromarketing is the Intersection of Engineering and Psychology with Spencer Gerrol of SPARK NeuroIn this episode of Ventures from the Valley, our host, Victor Orlovski, is joined by Spencer Gerrol, Founder and CEO of SPARK Neuro, a company on a mission to transform the future of brain health. Spencer has dedicated his career to translating theoretical science into real-world applications using biometric technologies. Join us as we dive into Spencer's career journey as a businessman, his passion for understanding the human brain, and the exciting advancements in brain-related technologies. Discover the fascinating world of neuromarketing, brain-computer interfaces, and the potential to enhance human capabilities. Don't miss out on this insightful conversation...
2024-09-041h 20
Ventures from The ValleyFrom Teenage Entrepreneur to Serial Founder: Insights from Michael Pechatnikov’s JourneyIn this episode of Ventures from the Valley, our host, Victor Orlovski, is joined by Michael Pechatnikov, Co-Founder and CTO of a Stealth Startup. Together, they touch on the following topics:Michael's entrepreneurial journey and experiences with starting and selling companiesThe realization that working and building companies is his passionMichael's venture into managing wealth and exploring investment opportunitiesChallenges faced in finding managers with consistent alpha and closing the fundImportance of the ideation phase and focusing on market sizeMichael's plans for the futureMichael is the Co-Founder and CTO of Stealth Startup (September 2023—present). A...
2024-08-0759 min
Ventures from The ValleyStartup investments in already-crowded markets, with Alex Mashrabov of Higgsfield AIIn this episode of Ventures from the Valley, our host Victor Orlovski is joined by Alex Mashrabov, founder and CEO of Higgsfield AI. Together they ask the big questions including: Can you run a GenAI business without VC Investment? Which is better, closed-loop models or open source?How can your business challenge an already-crowded market?Should AI be regulated?Alex is the CEO of Higgsfield AI, the open-source machine learning framework designed for training large models with endless parameters. When he isn’t in the office, he’s also a successful Angel...
2024-07-031h 00
Ventures from The ValleyHybrid Cloud Environments: the Past, Present, and Future - with Alex Freedland, CEO of MirantisIn this episode of Ventures from the Valley, our host Victor Orlovski is joined by Alex Freedland, co-founder and CEO of Mirantis. Together they discuss:Alex’s beginnings in America as a young soviet immigrantHis business ventures, including MirantisThe threats and opportunities of Open Source technologiesThe future of Blockchain and CryptoAlex Freedland co-founded Mirantis in 2011, and was their CEO for six years before stepping back from his duties in 2017 - only to return to the CEO role in January of this year. Mirantis helps organizations increase developer productivity and ship co...
2024-06-061h 16
Ventures from The ValleyOnce an investor, always an entrepreneur - with Liad Agmon of Insight PartnersIn this episode of Ventures from the Valley, our host Victor Orlovski is joined by serial entrepreneur-turned-investor Liad Agmon.Together, they discuss: The fascinating/ frightening rise of online personal dataHow LLMs are evolving marketing and data strategiesThe dangers AI can pose to humanityTransitioning from entrepreneur to investor Liad Agmon is the chairman of the Israel Climbers Association, and Managing Director of Insight Partners - the Global Software investor. His first business, Onigma, was founded in the early 2000s and sold to McAfee. His second company, Delver, wa...
2024-05-131h 06
Ventures from The ValleyHow to manage your stakeholders in good times and bad - with Shahar FogelIn this episode of Ventures from the Valley, our host Victor Orlovski is joined by Shahar Fogel, the former CEO of Rookout.Together, they discuss: The qualities of an excellent Product ManagerHow Shahar built an effective sales machine from scratchThe challenges of building revenue in a highly competitive marketThe juggling act of pleasing shareholders and employeesThe difficult decision to sell a business to a competitor. Shahar Fogel is the former CEO of Rookout, a live data collection and debugging platform that was acquired by Dynatrace. After le...
2024-04-241h 06
Ventures from The ValleyHow to lead a team, a board, and a business with Mark Gazit from ThetaRayIn this first episode of Ventures from the Valley, our host Victor Orlovski is joined by Mark Gazit: the co-founder, former CEO, and current senior advisor at ThetaRay.Together, they discuss: The fight for cybersecurity in FintechThe past, present, and future of AIDe-Globalization of Fintech How to be a CEO of a startupWorkable strategies for board management and investmentMark Gazit has been at ThetaRay for eleven years now, having previously been their CEO and President. ThetaRay is an AI-powered transaction monitoring SaaS solution for international payments for banks an...
2024-03-271h 05