TBC: What I Learned Coaching HBS Founders on Fundraising
In this episode of The Back Channel, I reflect on a recent visit to Harvard Business School where I coached founders in Jeff Bussgang’s Launching Tech Ventures class. I break down one of the biggest fundraising mistakes I saw, how founders frame their problem space, and share advice on how to fix it.
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TBC: Bouncing Back From Failure
In this episode, Jason shares a conversation with a founder who recently raised capital but had to close their startup.
First-time founders, remember that every setback is a chance to improve. Closing a startup isn't the end; it's a chance to evolve.
Once you've felt the grind and tasted success and failure, your perspective changes. You gain insights you can't find in books or tweets.
It's also important to note that venture capitalists value founders who've been through the startup rollercoaster. Understanding the ups and downs is what sets you apart.
Share this episode with fellow founders or friends on going through a tough time with their startup.
Embrace the learning process - see you next week!
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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
TBC: Creating a Story That Can Be Shared
Ever wondered why your startup story and pitch deck need to be razor-sharp?
Sure, you want to impress investors, but there's more to it than meets the eye. Host Jason Yeh dives into the secret sauce of crafting a compelling narrative that not only wows investors but also ensures your story gets shared effectively.
In this episode:
💡 Discover the critical importance of a concise story that grabs attention
💡 Learn why your pitch deck is more than just a visual aid—it's your investor's roadmap.
💡 Uncover the hidden power of making your story easy to share, especially in firms with multiple decision-makers
Ready to be convinced to tighten up your pitch?
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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
TBC: Should Founders Try Again With Investors Who've Passed?
In this episode, we explore the wisdom behind reconnecting with investors who previously passed on your pitch.
Remember, investor passes aren't personal; they often stem from timing or fit issues.
Before reconnecting, update your narrative with progress highlights.
When reaching out, exude confidence without begging.
Showcase your growth, increasing investor interest, and upcoming fundraising round.
These reconnections aren't just about securing funding; they're opportunities to refine your pitch and bolster credibility.
Ready to reconnect and ace that pitch?
Go ahead and give this episode a listen!
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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
TBC: Don't Fall Into The Builder's Trap
In this Backchannel episode, Jason tackles a familiar trap for founders: productive procrastination!
From fixing pages to creating automations, it's easy to get caught up in tasks that feel productive but aren't top priorities for fundraising.
I get it, working on things you enjoy is crucial, but as a founder, your plate's overflowing.
Listen to this episode to hear Jason's insights on how to distinguish between enjoyable distractions and high-leverage tasks that drive real progress.
Prioritize your focus and avoid falling into the "builder's trap"!
Keep building, but build smart!
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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
TBC: The Similarities Between Real Estate and Fundraising
Have you ever compared fundraising with real estate?
Once you do, you'll be shocked by their similarities.
In today's episode, Jason gives a real life example of how he discovered just how similar they are.
While having to find a new renter for his home, he realized how he still needed to build momentum, keep options open, and communicate the value of the property in a way that grasped others attention.
He even learned the lesson of not getting too ahead of yourself, and to keep running a process until the papers are signed.
Listen to the full episode to learn more about the similarities between fundraising and real estate and how you can use this analogy yo help your fundraise.
See you next week on The Backchannel!
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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
TBC: The Need For Support in Fundraising
For a topic that seems to be "cliche", it sure is important. What if we were to tell you that getting support around your fundraise is one of the best ways to guarantee success? As founders, you are automatically biased toward your own product. That means you are also biased toward your pitch, deck, and any other materials you might share with an investor. In this episode, Jason dives into 3 areas of fundraising you should be getting support around, and why it's so important. See you guys next week on The Backchannel!
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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
TBC: CEOs Should Always Be the Ones to Pitch
Who should be the one to pitch - the CEO or the outgoing salesman?
In today's episode of The Backchannel, Jason explains why he believes the CEO should always be the one pitching to investors.
Although there might be a few exceptions, investors are looking to get to know the person who is running the ship and making the big decisions.
A salesman sells the vision, the CEO is the one who executes on it.
Remember: investors bet on the jockey, not just the horse.
See you next week!
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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
TBC: Explaining "The Money Round"
In this Back Channel episode, we're diving into the elusive "money round" investors adore.
So what is it?
To sum it up, the "money round" is the round before a valuation spike.
Investors are searching for crystal-clear milestones and confident execution that screams, "Next round, here we come!"
How do you do that?
Make sure to watch the full episode where Jason dives into the details.
See you next week!
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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
TBC: Preparing For a Pitch Competition
Working with founders it's safe to say Jason has seen a lot of pitches, good and bad.
Not to mention he himself has pitched quite a bit in his past as a VC-backed founder.
In that time, he's learned what to do and not to do.
In this episode, Jason gives some practical tips around how to make the most of your pitch for a pitch competition.
Enjoy the episode!
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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
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