VC signals can be tricky. A lot of them are deeply intertwined with social dynamics and can change investor interest in a matter of seconds.

In this episode, Jason shares a recent example of how fast negative signaling can impact a deal.

Listen to the full episode to learn about different types of VC signals and how you can use them to help you raise your round!

Welcome back to The Backchannel! In this episode, we're trying out a new format where we dive into your burning questions about how founders should navigate investor passes. Join Jason as he addresses the following questions:

- Should you send a follow-up email after a pass? How soon is too soon to follow up after an informal meeting?
- Is it appropriate to ask for feedback on why an investor passed?
- How soon do I follow up with an investor who seemed interested?

If you enjoy this format, let us know what other topics you'd like us to cover!

In this episode of The Backchannel, we delve into the commonly held belief that founders should send monthly investor newsletters. We revisit the idea from a previous episode focused on personal newsletters for VCs and discuss why monthly updates might not be the most effective way to maintain investor interest. Learn alternatives for more strategic and impactful investor communication techniques. Ideal for startup founders looking to optimize their fundraising strategies.

Welcome back to the Back Channel! Today, we're mixing things up. My producer Paige read an article from the Bay Area Council Economic Institute and wanted my take. They claim tech workers are flocking back to SF, with major companies still headquartered there, and a big chunk of AI investment dollars staying local. Although there's truth to that, I think the pandemic has opened doors for other cities. San Francisco is still important due to it's history and other specific reasons, but there are other places on the rise. Listen to the full episode to hear my take on the article!

In this episode of The Backchannel, we explore everything you should consider when figuring out how much you need to raise.

Jason delves into the common questions founders face regarding fundraising amounts, the importance of being goal-oriented, and the two key goals for raising funds.

Jason also stresses the importance of calculating the necessary funds to hit these milestones, rather than opting for smaller, seemingly easier amounts that could lead to a "bridge to nowhere."

Drawing from his mentor, Alan Patricof, the host underscores that investors seek meaningful progress, not just minimal survival.

The episode provides a clear framework to help founders determine how much they need to raise for their companies.

In this episode of The Backchannel, the host launches a new series called "How I Work," exploring strategies for productivity.

Jason delves into the challenges faced by founders, such as digital distractions, and shares his personal approach to combatting them.

By disconnecting from the internet during certain periods and utilizing a digital notepad like the remarkable device, he emphasizes the importance of carving out distraction-free time to boost productivity.

Join him as he shares insights and invites feedback on navigating the demands of entrepreneurship.

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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter

In this episode of The Backchannel, the host emphasizes the critical role of third-party feedback in the fundraising process for entrepreneurs.

Reflecting on a recent interaction with a founder, the host describes how an initially chaotic business pitch was clarified and refined through his outsider's perspective.

This episode underscores the unique advantage of third-party insights, which strip away emotional biases and unnecessary details to highlight the core message that resonates.

The takeaway is clear: seeking external opinions on fundraising materials isn't just helpful; it's essential for success.

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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter

In this episode, the host shares the power of personal newsletters for VC's, shedding light on investor psychology and fundraising strategies.

Drawing from anecdotes from his personal life and interactions with VC's, he highlights the importance of staying top of mind in the competitive landscape of deal flow.

By sharing stories of missed opportunities and the dynamics of VC interactions, he underscores the significance of personal branding through newsletters.

Ultimately, the episode offers a pro tip for VC's to leverage personal newsletters as a means to enhance deal flow and foster lasting connections while simultaneously teaching founders about investor psychology.

In this episode, our host covers the importance of having a technical co-founder for non-technical founders and how to go about finding one.

Venture capitalists seek teams with diverse skill sets, understanding that successful companies require both technical and non-technical expertise.

For non-technical founders, making progress and creating value without a technical product is key to attracting top talent.

By understanding the "why" and "how" of finding a technical co-founder, you'll be better equipped to build a strong co-founding team and drive towards success.

Join us as we explore the steps ahead in this journey!