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This week, we're taking you back into the dynamic world of corporate venture capital with a must-listen conversation featuring Nick Washburn, Senior Managing Director at Intel Capital — one of the most prolific and impactful CVCs, with over $20 billion invested across the tech ecosystem.
Why now? Gearing up for 2025 — after the rollercoaster of recent years, investor sentiment is shifting dramatically. Institutional giants like pension funds and family offices are reportedly increasing their VC allocations by as much as 33% in the next 12 months!
If you missed out the original episode, or would like to revisit these key takeaways — this episode is for you. Whether you're a founder, an innovator, or a capital allocator, Nick's wisdom is packed with actionable takeaways, and life lessons really, that will leave you energized and ready to seize the opportunities 2025 has to offer.
Timestamps / Key Takeaways
0:00 - Intro
01:15 - Key takeaway #1: "Chasing the Puck"
02:55 - Key Takeaway #2: "The Anti-Pattern Matcher"
05:11 - Key Takeaway #3: "Building Legendary Companies"
08:51 - Key Takeaway #4: "Patience and Discipline in Venture"
12:06 - Key Takeaway #5: "Focus on What You Can Control"
13:55 - Closing Remarks
Full Episode:
Inside Intel Capital: How a Multi-Billion Dollar Portfolio Sets the Standard for CVCs w/ Nick Washburn, Intel Capital
About Nick Washburn
Nick Washburn is a Senior Managing Director of Intel Capital located in Denver, CO. He joined Intel Capital in 2014.
Nick is a voting member of Intel Capital’s investment committee and co-manages Intel Capital’s cloud investment domain. He focuses on early-stage investments in cloud-native infrastructure, developer tools, artificial intelligence/machine learning, and data platforms.
Nick currently serves as a director or observer on the boards of Augtera Networks, Fly.io, Freshpaint, Moderne, OtterTune, and Tetrate. He also works closely on Intel Capital’s investments in Anyscale and Upbound.
In addition, Nick currently serves as a director on the board of the National Venture Capital Association, and he is a member of the Kauffman Fellows, Class 25. He is a proud father to amazing twin boys, he loves playing ice hockey, and he is an avid lover of all things outdoors, including skiing, mountain biking and rock climbing.
FOLLOW NICK:
LinkedIn
PODCAST INFO:
Podcast website: https://billiondollarmoves.com
Watch on Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/sarahchenglobal
Join the community: https://sarah-chen.ck.page/billiondollarmoves
FOLLOW SARAH:
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/sarahchenglobal
Instagram: https://instagram.com/sarahchenglobal
Twitter: https://twitter.com/sarahchenglobal -
This week, we sit down with Tingting Peng, the Chief Transformation Officer of Moove, the African-born fintech tackling financial inclusion through innovative mobility solutions. With over $500 million raised in equity and debt financing, and a customer base of 30,000 drivers across global markets, Moove is redefining vehicle ownership and creating pathways to economic empowerment.
Tingting shares her incredible journey — from navigating the high-stakes world of hedge funds to embracing purpose-driven leadership at Moove. She opens up about the pivotal moments that shaped her career, including the global financial crisis and her mid-career pivot into social enterprise. We also dive into her role in scaling Moove’s operations to $150 million in annual recurring revenue, building strategic partnerships with giants like Uber, and driving innovation in emerging markets.
Get ready for a masterclass on resilience, leadership, and the power of purpose in building a successful business!
Timestamps / Key Takeaways
0:00 - Intro
02:36 - Billion Dollar Questions
04:52 - The pivots in Tingting’s career - from hedge fund manager to yoga teacher to today’s Moove
08:46 - The journey of becoming the first executive hired of a Nigerian-founded startup
11:10 - Leadership qualities to seek in founders; the co-founder dynamics
15:56 - Driving financial inclusion in mobility industry; obstacles faced and solutions provided in Nigeria
22:03 - Surprising learnings from gender analysis; managing volatility in different markets
27:03 - Pulling out from Egypt and Kenya: key learnings
31:40 - Strategic partnership with Uber and beyond
34:38 - Building a global business from early - partnership with OEM and making impact
40:23 - Hardest lessons learned; “always in fundraising mode”
About Tingting
Tingting is Chief Capital, Strategy, and Impact Officer at Moove, a mobility fintech focused on revenue-based financing for gig workers globally. She is also an angel investor and advisor to startups across healthtech, climate tech, HR tech and fintech.
As a former investment banker, hedge fund analyst and private equity investor, Tingting has extensive experience across private markets asset classes and a passion for building and scaling impactful businesses at the intersection of tech, finance, and wellbeing. She is a graduate of MIT with an MBA from London Business School. Tingting is a member of the Milken Institute’s Young Leaders Circle and has been recognised by Fintech Magazine as a Top 100 Women in Fintech 2023 and by the Financial Technology Report as a Top 25 Women Leader in Financial Technology of 2022.
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PODCAST INFO:
Podcast website: https://billiondollarmoves.com
Watch on Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/sarahchenglobal
Join the community: https://sarah-chen.ck.page/billiondollarmoves
FOLLOW SARAH:
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/sarahchenglobal
Instagram: https://instagram.com/sarahchenglobal
Twitter: https://twitter.com/sarahchenglobal -
Saknas det avsnitt?
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As the year comes to a close, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the lessons learned, the challenges faced, and the habits that have shaped our journey. This week, we are revisiting an episode that dives deep into these themes with Suneel Gupta.
Once labeled the "face of failure" in *The New York Times,* Suneel turned his setbacks into powerful lessons, going on to become the founding CEO of RISE, a wellness company named App of the Year by Apple. Now a bestselling author, renowned speaker, and Harvard Medical School visiting scholar, Suneel studies the habits of extraordinary individuals to help us all lift our performance and deepen our sense of purpose.
In this replay, Suneel shares actionable insights on building resilience, finding purpose, and creating habits that sustain us—perfect reflections to carry into the new year. Tune in for an inspiring conversation to help you close out this year strong and step into the next with clarity and intention.
TIMESTAMP
0:00 Intro
04:00 The face of failure on The New York Times
06:46 The alignment and arrival fallacy
08:15 Behind the success with Rise app
11:24 Deeper questions from the next generation: meaning or money?
15:30 Burnout among successful people
17:13 The role of resting and paradox of productivity
19:55 The need to perform and living up to expectations
21:43 Chisel back to dharma through questions
26:07 The struggle to monetise while living up to purpose
29:32 Expressions of dharma
34:18 Work and play as adults
37:29 Jealousy as an indicator of your dharma
40:28 Takes on racial hate and identity in US
43:01 Billion Dollar Questions
About Suneel Gupta
“Today I write, speak and teach about the changing world of work and what we do internally in order to succeed externally.”
Once seen as the “face of failure” in the New York Times, Suneel Gupta understands that the road to success is not always smooth.
Suneel learned from his mistakes and went on to become a founding CEO of RISE, a breakthrough wellness company named App of the Year by Apple.
As an author and visiting scholar at Harvard Medical School, Suneel studies the most extraordinary people on the planet to discover and share simple, actionable habits to lift our performance and deepen our daily sense of purpose. His work has been featured by major outlets including CNBC, TED, and the New York Times.
Now a bestselling author, renowned speaker, Harvard Medical School visiting scholar, and host of a global Documentary Series, Suneel studies, discovers and shares simple, actionable habits that lift our performance and deepen our state of well-being.
FOLLOW SUNEEL:
Website | https://www.suneelgupta.com/
LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/suneelkgupta/
Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/suneelgupta/
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PODCAST INFO:
Podcast website: https://billiondollarmoves.com
Watch on Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/sarahchenglobal
Join the community: https://sarah-chen.ck.page/billiondollarmoves
FOLLOW SARAH:
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/sarahchenglobal
Instagram: https://instagram.com/sarahchenglobal
Twitter: https://twitter.com/sarahchenglobal -
This week we’re diving into the journey of Martin Karafilis, CEO of Fishburners, Australia's largest and longest-standing startup community. Since 2011, Fishburners has supported over 45,000 entrepreneurs and facilitated more than $2 billion in capital raised. In our conversation, Martin shares his insights on Australia's evolving venture landscape, the importance of community in startup success, and why global ambitions are essential for local founders. Tune in for stories about pitching at Fishburners’ iconic events, investing in women founders, and lessons learned from building a tech startup to exit!Timestamps / Key Takeaways00:00 - Intro02:06 - The journey of Fishburners and its impact on Australian startups04:21 - Takes on women-led startups; Why investing in women founders is a smart business decision.06:41 - Australia’s startup ecosystem: challenges, opportunities, and the rise of domestic capital flow13:01 - Lessons from a founder-turned-investor; blooming tech scene in Australia startups17:44 - Importance of community; success stories of Fishburners21:29 - Martin’s journey as a founder: from funding to exits30:20 - Billion Dollar QuestionsAbout Martin KarafilisCritically acclaimed speaker and author with a wealth of knowledge across technology, business, startups, entrepreneurship and investment. As featured in publications such as Forbes, TechCrunch, Business Insider, The Financial Review.Having founded multiple companies, scaled operations globally, and developed some of the worlds most innovative products, Martin is widely known as one of Australia's leading serial entrepreneurs and business advisors. Martin maintains a unique lens on end to end operations leveraging both his technical and non-technical backgrounds. A leader for innovation who has a proven track record in strategic & operational planning, sales growth & customer acquisition, capital raising & funding, product design & management, people & culture, marketing, branding & public relations.Striving to drive emerging technologies, Martin uses his experience from large global corporates and growing startups to introduce world leading technology on local, regional and global levels. Martin follows a strict range of core values when carrying out business with a strong focus on creating environmental and social impact, ultimately trying to shape the world for the better through technology and innovation.Martin has strong expertise in growing businesses and building exceptional teams with a deep understanding of how political, cultural, social, economic and technological impacts shape international markets.FOLLOW MARTINhttps://www.instagram.com/martinkarafilis/https://www.instagram.com/martinkarafilis/-PODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://billiondollarmoves.comWatch on Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/sarahchenglobalJoin the community: https://sarah-chen.ck.page/billiondollarmovesFOLLOW SARAH:LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/sarahchenglobalInstagram: https://instagram.com/sarahchenglobalTwitter: https://twitter.com/sarahchenglobal
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Today’s episode of #BillionDollarMoves is truly special—the first-ever brother-sister co-hosted episode on this how! Sarah and Brian sit down with Shruti Shibulal, the visionary CEO of Tamara Leisure Experiences. From her roots in the Infosys legacy to building a trailblazing hospitality brand, Shruti shares her insights on scaling a purpose-driven business, leading with impact, and redefining sustainability in the luxury travel sector.Tamara Leisure Experiences has reported a threefold increase in revenue and is aiming for a 50% growth in its property count within the next few years. This is a conversation about shaping the future of tourism with innovation and purpose - you won’t want to miss it!Timestamps/Key Takeaways0:00 - Intro2:01 - Action in Shruti’s kitchen: Food, tradition, and family values11:44 - Serving the Ornam Sadhya; food and sustainability14:17 - From India to US, Shruti’s first touch of entrepreneurship17:36 - Influence of her parents - S.D. & Kumari Shibulal20:27 - How Shruti build her own path as the second generation; “We need to be thoughtful in the way we’re building,”21:56 - The 3Ps - people, planet, and profitability25:22 - Why Tamara? Building upon concepts of Eco-Tourism29:39 - Shruti’s leadership and the Shibula family’s philanthropic initiatives32:07 - Key challenges in the hospitality industry37:01 - What is success for Shruti Shibulal? Job creation as one tangible way for change40:23 - Takes on global view of India’s food and culture45:29 - Sambal Survey48:15 - Billion Dollar QuestionsAbout ShrutiShruti Shibulal is CEO and Director of Tamara Leisure Experiences. She strives to make Tamara synonymous with responsible tourism by incorporating principles of sustainability into the development and operations of each of Tamara's properties and creating impactful employment within their respective communities. Tamara operates resorts and hotels in South India, and has interests in Germany as well.Shruti is a Trustee of the Advaith Foundation and SD Foundation, organizations involved in providing educational opportunities and healthcare assistance to underprivileged sections of society. She is also a Trustee of WEP - Women's Education Project, which focuses on educating and uplifting young women from vulnerable backgrounds. Shruti is on the Governing Board of ATREE - Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and Environment.In 2019, Shruti launched SAATHIYA - a hospitality skilling program which enables young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to become employable within the restaurant and hotel industries. Focussing on industry-relevant skilling, building careers, and creating a community, SAATHIYA has already shown positive results in improving the lives and prospects of its graduates. — FOLLOW SHRUTI:https://www.instagram.com/shruti_shibulal/https://tamaraleisureexperiences.com/-PODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://billiondollarmoves.comWatch on Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/sarahchenglobalJoin the community: https://sarah-chen.ck.page/billiondollarmoves FOLLOW SARAH:LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/sarahchenglobalInstagram: https://instagram.com/sarahchenglobalTwitter: https://twitter.com/sarahchenglobal
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From Breaking Into Y Combinator to Reshaping A $58Bn Furniture Resale Industry w/ Reham Fagiri, AptDeco
In this episode, we’re joined by Reham Fagiri, co-founder and CEO of AptDeco, the trailblazing furniture resale platform that’s transforming a $58 billion industry.
What started as Reham’s frustration with selling furniture on Craigslist has grown into a powerhouse business with over $100 million in sales, innovative logistics, and booming B2B growth.
As the first Black female founder to break into Y Combinator, Reham has raised more than $70 million while building a platform that’s redefining how we buy and sell furniture. From her beginnings at Goldman Sachs to launching a game-changing startup, this conversation is packed with billion-dollar insights and inspiration. Don’t miss it!
Timestamps/Key Takeaways
0:00 - Intro
01:50 - Billion Dollar Question
04:15 - From business school to Goldman Sachs to the conceptualize of AptDeco
08:57 - The Co-Founder relationship with Kalam Davis
13:53 - Deficiency in the now, $58Bn furniture resale industry; breaking through Y Combinator
18:48 - Growth hacking; the journey to hit the J-curve; AptDeco’s in-time delivery
26:39 - The explosive growth between 2014-2017; unsuccessful attempt to raise Series A
29:19 - Expanding through B2B partnerships; building warehouse return solutions for brands
35:54 - Key factors to raise $19M capital; being the first black female to break into Y Combinator
41:30 - What needs to change in venture ecosystem for minority founders?
44:20 - Final message to founders alike
ABOUT REHAM
Reham Fagiri is the co-founder and CEO of AptDeco, the leading furniture resale platform that makes buying and selling furniture easy, efficient, and sustainable. AptDeco, built the first of its kind suite of resale technology and logistics solutions tailored to the furniture industry. Prior to starting AptDeco Reham worked at Goldman Sachs in various engineering and management positions focusing on designing, building, and launching new software applications for the firm.
Reham holds a BSc. in Electrical Engineering from the University of Maryland, College Park and an MBA from the Wharton School of Business of the University of Pennsylvania. She has served on the Fast Company Impact Council and Rewriting the Code advisory board, which works to advance women in business and tech.
FOLLOW REHAM
https://www.linkedin.com/in/reham-fagiri-97683b1/
PODCAST INFO:
Podcast website: https://billiondollarmoves.com
Watch on Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/sarahchenglobal
Join the community: https://sarah-chen.ck.page/billiondollarmoves
FOLLOW SARAH:
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/sarahchenglobal
Instagram: https://instagram.com/sarahchenglobal
Twitter: https://twitter.com/sarahchenglobal -
In this replay episode, we’re thrilled to spotlight Jyri Engeström, a serial entrepreneur whose early ventures led to successful exits to Google and Groupon. Now a General Partner at Yes VC, the fund he co-founded with Caterina Fake of Flickr, Jyri continues to shape the future of startups. He's also investing in bold new ventures alongside Petteri Koponen at Lifeline Ventures, one of Finland’s leading VC firms. Join us as we explore the cutting-edge opportunities shaping tomorrow, insights from Jyri’s time in Silicon Valley, and why Finland could soon be a global startup hub!Watch the full video here.TIMESTAMP / KEY TAKEAWAYS0:00 - Intro02:41 - The Innovator’s Dilemma, Sociology, & bi-continental life in Finland & the US06:20 - Working in Nokia to founding Jaiku08:56 - Google’s acquisition of Jaiku12:52 - Selling Ditto to Groupon; “I knew to kill the app immediately after the acquisition,”16:09 - Lessons learned as a serial entrepreneur; leadership19:01 - New chapters with True Ventures and Yes VC; patterns of success in portfolio 25:04 - Yes VC’s super early stage approach; thoughts on legacy32:06 - Identifying the potential unicorns; how to be curiosity-driven, continuously37:00 - Minting the unicorns & the anti-portfolios39:37 - The founder product fit; Petteri Koponen’s pattern of success44:48 - Raising children; parallel entrepreneurship49:58 - The liquidity & exit landscape and deal flow in Finland today54:11 - Jyri's trajectory for the next five years; messages to global investors56:29 - Billion Dollar Questions-PODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://billiondollarmoves.comWatch on Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/sarahchenglobalJoin the community: https://sarah-chen.ck.page/billiondollarmoves FOLLOW SARAH:LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/sarahchenglobalInstagram: https://instagram.com/sarahchenglobalTwitter: https://twitter.com/sarahchenglobal
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In this episode, we're diving into an engaging, power-packed conversation with Jack Selby, an investment leader of "PayPal Mafia" fame. Joining us from Beyond The Billion family office event in Singapore earlier this year, Jack brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective on venture capital and film production alike.
Join us as we discuss everything from strategic investing to the intersections of art and finance, exploring the bold moves that define Jack’s career.
Timestamps / Key Takeaways
0:00 - Intro
1:49 - Wealth & Legacy: Investing in Art and Film
4:48 - The Significance of Purposeful Investing
6:08 - The Rising Wave of AI Technologies and Women in Tech
8:15 - The Catalytic Impact of Capital: Work with Thiel Capital
About Jack Selby
Jack Selby is a prominent venture capitalist and independent film producer known for his early work with PayPal and ongoing leadership roles in tech and investment. He gained fame as one of the original “PayPal Mafia” members, having helped scale PayPal before its sale to eBay in 2002. After the acquisition, Selby co-founded the macro hedge fund Clarion Capital Management with Peter Thiel.
Selby now leads Thiel Capital, Thiel's Los Angeles-based family office, from Arizona, and he also heads AZ-VC, a venture capital firm he launched in 2021 to invest in high-potential tech startups in Arizona. In addition to his investment career, Selby has a passion for film production, with credits as an independent producer on movies like Memory starring Jessica Chastain and His Three Daughters starring Elizabeth Olsen, showcasing his interests beyond the tech world.
His diversified work across venture capital, finance, and film illustrates his adaptability and broad industry interests, influencing both business and media landscapes.
FOLLOW JACK:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackselby/
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PODCAST INFO:
Podcast website: https://billiondollarmoves.com
Watch on Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/sarahchenglobal
Join the community: https://sarah-chen.ck.page/billiondollarmoves
FOLLOW SARAH:
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/sarahchenglobal
Instagram: https://instagram.com/sarahchenglobal
Twitter: https://twitter.com/sarahchenglobal -
Get ready for a story that redefines resilience. This week, we're sitting down with Mary Seats, aka Mz Skittlez, the unstoppable entrepreneur who transformed a $300 hustle into the multimillion-dollar fashion brand, Cupcake Mafia.
Mary's story defies the conventional startup path, and that’s exactly what makes it worth hearing. From building a multimillion-dollar brand to being fired from her own company, Mary has seen it all. After losing control of Cupcake Mafia, she bounced back stronger than ever, reclaiming her brand and launching The Icing Agency, a marketing powerhouse that has since grossed over $16 million.
Her journey isn’t just about personal triumph—it's about inspiring all of us to invest in women-led businesses and redefine what’s possible. Buckle up for an episode that will challenge your patterns of success and leave you fired up to make your own #BillionDollarMoves!
TIMESTAMPS / KEY TAKEAWAYS
0:00 - Intro
02:07 - Billion Dollar Questions with Mz Skittlez
07:46 - The $50K order that led to “you have to find a distribution company”
09:50 - From a dream-come-true to “you no longer own this company”
15:54 - 3 lessons learned: Involve your lawyer, understand your value, and plan your exits
20:39 - Mz Skittlez on pivoting: what moves the cash register and my customers’ experience?
24:14 - The Icing Agency: the upward spiral to $16 million in revenue
27:23 - Tips on building an effective brand and separating from personality: ‘Value over Price’
30:53 - The Bakery CoWork: creating a space for all women regardless of background
34:15 - Strategies that allows The Bakery CoWork to strive: #1 building a community
36:22 - The Bakery CoWork: #2 Create multiple revenue streams from a single space
38:02 - People-centered businesses: is it truly scalable?
41:18 - Mz Skittlez’s Billion Dollar Move and legacy
About Mary Seats 'Mz Skittlez'
Meet Mary Seats, aka Mz Skittlez, a dynamic force in the business world. From marketing genius to resilient founder, she's made her mark.
Despite facing challenges with her multimillion-dollar brand, Cupcake Mafia, Mary's resilience shone through. After setbacks and even dismissal from her own company, she didn't give up. Instead, she bounced back stronger.
Fuelled by determination, Mary orchestrated a remarkable comeback. She not only regained control of her company but also launched The Icing Agency, a marketing powerhouse that grossed over $16 million.
But Mary's impact goes beyond business success. Passionate about empowering women, she founded The Bakery Cowork, the largest female-focused co-working space in the U.S.
Mary Seats's story is one of resilience, ambition, and lifting others up. She continues to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs, proving setbacks are just stepping stones to success. Mz Skittlez is shaping the business landscape with her fearless approach, leaving an indelible mark on entrepreneurship.
FOLLOW MZ SKITTLEZ
https://www.instagram.com/mzskittlez/?hl=en
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-seats-aa38419a
https://www.youtube.com/@thesecretrecipetv
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PODCAST INFO:
Podcast website: https://billiondollarmoves.com
Watch on Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/sarahchenglobal
Join the community: https://sarah-chen.ck.page/billiondollarmoves
FOLLOW SARAH:
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/sarahchenglobal
Instagram: https://instagram.com/sarahchenglobal
Twitter: https://twitter.com/sarahchenglobal -
In this episode, we’re thrilled to bring you an inspiring panel discussion from The Billion Dollar Series by Beyond The Billion, in partnership with Dell Technologies.
On this global tour to fuel women-led innovation, we dive into Australia’s rapidly evolving venture landscape with some of the country’s top industry leaders. Featuring Carol Schwartz, Director of Trawalla Group; Alex Schuman, CEO of Carla Zampatti; Kristy Chong, Founder of Modibodi; and Rick Baker, Co-Founder of Blackbird VC — this powerhouse panel explores why the coming decade could be a game-changer for venture in Australia.
We discussed why investing in women-led businesses is both smart and strategic, and how Australia’s unique mix of patience and passion is powering some of the most exciting opportunities in venture capital today. Tune in for insights that could inspire your own #BillionDollarMoves!
TIMESTAMPS/KEY TAKEAWAYS
00:00 - Intro
02:59 - Rick Baker: Growth of the Australian venture industry over the last 12-13 years; the ongoing challenges in funding women entrepreneurs
07:00 - Carol Schwartz: Opportunities for female entrepreneurs within family offices
11:00 - Kristy Chong: Evolution from founder to investor
15:11 - Challenges face by female founders in scaling businesses
18:22 - Alex Schuman: Reestablishing the business based on their mother’s legacy with her sisters
21:29 - Challenges in scaling a vertically integrated business in Australia
23:39 - Diversity criticism against Blackbird and the VC ecosystem; The “Kiki incident” and commitment to improved diversity
32:56 - Shift from personal direct investments to seeking women-managed funds
39:39 - Track record issues for women leaving large VC firms; achieving significant portfolio support for female founders
43:15 - Gender bias in the venture ecosystem; maintain perseverance admidst the hardship.
48:41 - Government’s role in supporting diversity and entrepreneurship
54:09 - Industry bias and potential within aged care
57:12 - Gender investment gaps and how female founders could persevere; industry-wide programs: Giants, Foundry, and positive trends in female-led companies
1:01:15 - Key takeaways
Full event recap:
The Billion Dollar Brunch™ (Sydney 2024 Edition)
About Our Guests
Carol Schwartz AO
Founder, Female Led Ventures
Kristy Chong OAM
Founder, Modibodi
Alex Schuman
CEO, Carla Zampatti
Rick Baker
Co-Founder, Blackbird VC
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PODCAST INFO:
Podcast website: https://billiondollarmoves.com
Watch on Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/sarahchenglobal
Join the community: https://sarah-chen.ck.page/billiondollarmoves
FOLLOW SARAH:
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/sarahchenglobal
Instagram: https://instagram.com/sarahchenglobal
Twitter: https://twitter.com/sarahchenglobal -
This CEO leads the world’s largest ticketing platform, powering millions of events globally and driving substantial revenue—$326.1 million in 2023 alone.
Julia Hartz, as the co-founder and CEO of Eventbrite, she took Eventbrite public, only to face a near-collapse when the pandemic brought in-person events to a sudden halt. Despite the unforeseen challenge, Julia steered Eventbrite through turbulent times, and the company continues to thrive today as a publicly listed entity.
This resilience and leadership are why she’s our next feature in the Billion Dollar Moves CEO Series!
TIMESTAMPS/KEY TAKEAWAYS
0:00 - Intro
01:47 - Key Takeaway #1: Sometimes you need to just trust the flow of life
09:24 - Key Takeaway #2: Stay focused through the abundance of opportunities.
11:55 - Key Takeaway #3: Know your nutrients
13:22 - Nutrient 1 - Your First Customers
15:25 - Nutrient 2 - Capital but not using it
16:46 - Nutrient 3 – Talent as fuel
19:15 - Key Takeaway #4: Find the Right Habitat
20:51 - Key Takeaway #5: Cultivate Healthy Paranoia
26:14 - Some actionable questions for you
About Julia
Julia Hartz is an American entrepreneur, investor, and the co-founder and CEO of Eventbrite, a global ticketing and event technology platform. She is known for her leadership of Eventbrite during the COVID-19 pandemic and empowering women in the technology industry.
Sources:
Eventbrite ft. Julia Hartz - A thriving events company took 14 years to build and nearly disappeared in 14 days | Crucible Moments
How I Built This with Guy Raz: Eventbrite - Julia Hartz
Julia Hartz: Crucial Startup Nutrients
Stanford Seminar - Entrepreneurial Thought Leaders: Kevin and Julia Hartz of Eventbrite
What Eventbrite Did Early to Create ‘Sustainable’ Success | Review First Round
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PODCAST INFO:
Podcast website: https://billiondollarmoves.com
Watch on Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/sarahchenglobal
Join the community: https://sarah-chen.ck.page/billiondollarmoves
FOLLOW SARAH:
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/sarahchenglobal
Instagram: https://instagram.com/sarahchenglobal
Twitter: https://twitter.com/sarahchenglobal -
Last month at INBOUND 2024 in Boston, we took the main stage with Glenda McNeal, Chief Partner Officer at American Express, to explore how partnerships are transforming innovation and driving sustained business growth.In this episode, we dive into how American Express builds and leverages its global strategic partnerships to enhance customer value and stay competitive. Tune in to discover key insights into successful partnership strategies and learn how to create relationships that lead to extraordinary results.TIMESTAMPS/KEY TAKEAWAYS0:00 - Intro03:20 - Quick rapid fire with Glenda04:13 - Skill sets learned since childhood: communication, resilience & values07:57 - The power of influence09:37 - Deep focus on Gen Z and millennials as consumer targets; Formula One13:44 - Strategy to understand Gen Z and millennials as consumers: AI tools and data analysis15:28 - Lessons learned building a strategic partnership across the world18:02 - Advice to smaller brands to build business relationships20:42 - The next trend to watch out for22:59 - The art of partnership: It takes a long time to build it. It takes seconds to actually lose it. 25:16 - Call to action for growth leaders; being centered as who I am28:53 - One final takeaway: THE Billion Dollar MoveAbout Glenda McNealGlenda McNeal is the company’s first Chief Partner Officer. She defines American Express’ partnership strategy and leads key strategic initiatives and negotiations for the company across travel, technology, retail, media, sports, and entertainment. She leverages partnerships to bring innovation and additional value to American Express’ suite of products, services, capabilities, and experiences that engage customers and drive generational relevance of American Express Membership.Glenda has a track record of success in managing complex global relationships, negotiating critical partner agreements, and leading business development initiatives that drive growth and innovation. She previously served as President of Strategic Partnerships. Prior to this role, she was Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Global Client Group, where she drove transformative outcomes for both direct-to-consumer and B2B companies.She is a member of the American Express Executive Committee and is an Officer of the company. She serves on the boards of Nordstrom, Inc. and Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations, and is on the Board of Councilors for the USC Marshall School of Business. FOLLOW GLENDA:https://www.linkedin.com/in/glendamcneal-Original Video:Inbound - Building Bridges: The Power of Partnership-PODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://billiondollarmoves.comWatch on Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/sarahchenglobalJoin the community: https://sarah-chen.ck.page/billiondollarmovesFOLLOW SARAH:LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/sarahchenglobalInstagram: https://instagram.com/sarahchenglobal
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In this episode, we sit down with Tom Henriksson, General Partner at OpenOcean, to dive into the world of venture capital and scaling groundbreaking software companies. From his pivotal role in growing MySQL into a billion-dollar exit to leading Nokia’s mobile ad business, Tom shares invaluable insights on what it takes to navigate the competitive VC landscape and drive success for data-driven software companies reshaping industries today.We also explore the unique challenges of venture investing, the critical importance of scaling early, and even how fatherhood has influenced his approach to leadership. If you're curious about building category-defining startups in Europe or just craving an inspiring conversation with one of the best in the game, this episode is for you!TIMESTAMPS / KEY TAKEAWAYS0:00 - Intro01:49 - Parenting: risk taking and philosophy as a VC05:17 - “Entrepreneurship is the worst thing that you can do”; the evolution of entrepreneurship in Finland09:10 - How to go on after failing first four investments12:38 - Investing in software; MySQL15:44 - Joining Nokia back in 2002; what made Nokia ahead of the others?20:38 - Jyri Engerstrom & the innovator’s dilemma; Podia, the now Twitter25:01 - From Nokia to OpenOcean30:20 - Venture is tough business - how do we win in venture?33:12 - Why invest out of Finland and operate out of Finland?35:10 - Outlook for data software; the AI craze38:03 - An anti-portfolio39:52 - Billion Dollar QuestionsAbout Tom HenrikssonTom is a General Partner at OpenOcean and passionate about data-intensive software that is quick to love and built on strong technology. He is a big believer in accurate consumer profiling, marketing technologies, and intelligent automation of the enterprise. After recently driving strongly profitable exits for OpenOcean in Truecaller, LoopMe, Passfort, and TapDaq, Tom now holds board seats in Cambri, Leadoo Marketing Technologies, Operations1, and Workfellow. Tom’s previous experience includes investing in MySQL Ab, running Nokia’s Corporate BD, and launching and leading Nokia Interactive Advertising – the leading first-generation premium mobile ad-network. Tom scaled the business from scratch to $50 million in revenues in less than three years, including the acquisition of Boston-based Enpocket Inc.FOLLOW TOM:https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-henriksson-63532/-PODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://billiondollarmoves.comWatch on Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/sarahchenglobalJoin the community: https://sarah-chen.ck.page/billiondollarmovesFOLLOW SARAH:LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/sarahchenglobalInstagram: https://instagram.com/sarahchenglobalTwitter: https://twitter.com/sarahchenglobal
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In today’s episode, we are amplifying the story of a resilient and visionary entrepreneur, Julie Wainwright. Known for her dramatic turnaround from overseeing the epic failure of Pets.com during the dot-com bust to creating the billion-dollar luxury consignment powerhouse, The RealReal, Julie’s journey is an inspiring tale of innovation, resilience, and strategic brilliance.
And while we'll also talk about her departure from the reveal and the challenges reported today – it is unquestionable that her journey from absolute failure to growing and scaling is a testament to her resilience and innovation. This is why she's next in the Billion Dollar Moves CEO series.
This conversation explores the valuable lessons from Julie’s storied career, her fearless approach to failure, and her bold steps in founding Ahara, her latest venture in personalized nutrition at age 67.
Get ready to uncover actionable insights on turning setbacks into comebacks, understanding untapped markets, and always putting the customer first. Let’s get started!
Timestamps / Key Takeaways
00:00 - Intro
02:30 - Key Takeaway 1: Failure is just the cost of success— be one with it
07:27 - Key Takeaway 2: Just because it’s never been done before, doesn’t mean it can’t be done
11:56 - Key Takeaway 3: Just get started. Do the damn thing, expand and stay focused.
14:50 - Key Takeaway 4: “Your customers vote everyday with their purchases. Pay attention”. Customer-Centric Approach
18:35 - Key Takeaway 5: “Your business is an opportunity for you to make an impact.”
23:06 - Post-note: Initially successful, The RealReal's market cap dropped significantly - why?
About Julie Wainwright
Julie Wainwright began her illustrious career at Clorox as one of their first undergraduate hires in brand management, providing her with a solid foundation in profit and loss management and data analysis. Transitioning to the tech industry at the young age of 25, she joined Software Publishing amid the competitive landscape of Microsoft and Visicalc. Demonstrating remarkable initiative, Julie volunteered to handle international operations, leading efforts to establish international distribution from London by the age of 27. Her early experiences laid the groundwork for a dynamic career characterized by innovation and leadership.
Sources:
#80 - Julie Wainwright - Founder & CEO of The RealReal and Former Founder of Pets.com
How Julie Wainwright Built The RealReal To Be A Billion-Dollar Business | Forbes
Greycroft Co-Founder Ian Sigalow on Investing $1 Billion Right Now | StrictlyVC Download
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PODCAST INFO:
Podcast website: https://billiondollarmoves.com
Watch on Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/sarahchenglobal
Join the community: https://sarah-chen.ck.page/billiondollarmoves
FOLLOW SARAH:
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/sarahchenglobal
Instagram: https://instagram.com/sarahchenglobal
Twitter: https://twitter.com/sarahchenglobal -
This week, we’re bringing you an exclusive panel discussion from the Arctic15 LP Summit 2024. Moderated by Sarah Chen-Spellings, this conversation dives deep into the evolving venture capital landscape, driven by the influx of private wealth.Joining Sarah are Tor-Oskar Karlberg, Investment Director at Stephen Industries; Ville Solja, Owner & Investor at Kiilto Ventures; and Nydia Zhang, Investment Director at Ferretto Capital.Together, the panel explores how family offices and high-net-worth individuals are transforming the venture space, the driving factors behind this shift, and the unique opportunities it presents for both investors and entrepreneurs.Tune in now for insights into the strategies family offices are using to shape the future of venture capital!TIMESTAMPS / KEY TAKEAWAYS0:00 - Intro04:02 - Where do venture stands in family offices’ portfolio? 07:53 - Building the portfolio; using funds as an entry point to deal flow09:55 - The investment landscape of family offices in Asia; “we need to know who we are before we start to look for what we like”14:01 - Involvement in direct investments as a next-gen in family offices; “we need to be more active; not only because we find strong purpose, we actually need to do in order to survive.”16:42 - Purposeful investing and making impact as family offices21:54 - Outlook for the current and the next cycle; how is Asia faring as a region27:16 - Audience questionsFull Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mKnKGKd_4WIPanelists:Tor-Oskar Karlberg- Investment Director, Stephen IndustriesVille Solja – Owner & Investor, Kiilto VenturesNydia Zhang – Investment Director, Ferretto CapitalModerator: Sarah Chen-Spellings – Co-Founder & Managing Partner, Beyond The Billion-PODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://billiondollarmoves.comWatch on Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/sarahchenglobalJoin the community: https://sarah-chen.ck.page/billiondollarmovesFOLLOW SARAH:LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/sarahchenglobalInstagram: https://instagram.com/sarahchenglobalTwitter: https://twitter.com/sarahchenglobal
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This week, our host Sarah Chen-Spellings, venture capitalist, strategist, and co-founder of Beyond the Billion, takes the hot seat on the iDigress podcast, hosted by Troy Sandige!
Sarah shares her insights on what it truly takes to build billion-dollar unicorns—from mastering the pitch to overcoming rejection and navigating the highs and lows of entrepreneurship.
Tune in to learn how she’s helping entrepreneurs thrive in today’s fast-paced market, and discover the critical strategies that turn setbacks into success.
Original aired on iDigress Podcast with Troy Sandige:
Building Billion Dollar Unicorns: How To Pitch, Overcome Rejection, & Succeed As A Modern Entrepreneur With Sarah Chen-Spellings [Masterclass]
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Struggling to land that big pitch? Wondering why your path to success is filled with setbacks? Join us as we uncover what it really takes to build billion-dollar unicorns! Learn how to navigate failure, overcome rejection, stay resilient, and empower yourself—and others—in today’s competitive market with insights from venture capitalist and strategist Sarah Chen-Spellings in this masterclass episode.
In this episode, we delve into the high-stakes world of entrepreneurship with Sarah Chen-Spellings, a venture capitalist, strategist, and co-founder of Beyond the Billion. Join us as we explore the journey of building billion-dollar unicorns, where success is not just about having a great idea, but mastering the art of pitching, navigating the inevitable rejections, and persisting through the toughest challenges.
Sarah shares her unique insights on what it truly takes to succeed in today’s fast-paced entrepreneurial landscape. From her experience leading a global consortium investing over $1 Billion in women-founded companies to her work as a seasoned strategist and host of the "Billion Dollar Moves" podcast, Sarah offers invaluable advice for entrepreneurs aiming to make their mark.
Whether you’re an emerging entrepreneur or a seasoned founder, this episode is your masterclass on how to pitch, overcome rejection, and ultimately succeed in the billion-dollar game. Learn the critical strategies that differentiate those who thrive from those who fall short, and discover the mindset needed to turn risk into reward.
Key Takeaways:
The art of pitching: How to craft a compelling pitch that stands out in a crowded market.
Overcoming rejection: Proven strategies for turning setbacks into opportunities and building resilience.
Navigating risk: Insights on how to manage and mitigate the risks inherent in scaling a business to unicorn status.
The modern entrepreneur's mindset: What it takes to succeed in today’s competitive and rapidly evolving business environment.
Entrepreneurial diversity: Strategies for bringing more diverse entrepreneurs—women, Black, Latina, Asian, and others—to the table and ensuring they have the resources and support needed to succeed in the billion-dollar game.
Sarah's personal journey: Lessons from her experience co-founding Beyond the Billion and her role in shaping the future of venture capital.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain actionable insights from one of the leading voices in venture capital and entrepreneurship.
Connect With Troy:
Rate & Review iDigress: iDigress.fm/Reviews
Follow Troy's LinkedIn @FindTroy
Get Strategy Solutions & Services: GrowWithTroy.com
Follow Troy's Instagram @FindTroy
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PODCAST INFO:
Podcast website: https://billiondollarmoves.com
Watch on Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/sarahchenglobal
Join the community: https://sarah-chen.ck.page/billiondollarmoves
FOLLOW SARAH:
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/sarahchenglobal
Instagram: https://instagram.com/sarahchenglobal
Twitter: https://twitter.com/sarahchenglobal -
This week, we are resurfacing our conversation with Johanna Småros, co-founder of RELEX Solutions, one of Finland's leading unicorns. In our conversation, we delve into the unique path of RELEX Solutions, which was bootstrapped for more than 10 years and built “The Finnish Way” - practical and transparent.
From bootstrapping for over a decade to transforming the company into a global leader, her story is a testament to innovation, resilience, and strategic vision.
This is why, Johanna is next on the list of #BillionDollarMoves we should all learn from.
TIMESTAMPS / KEY TAKEAWAYS
0:00 - Intro
02:29 - Lesson #1: Don't Underestimate Academic Foundations
05:16 - Lesson #2: Do It Your Way: The Finnish Way of Building
07:03 - Lesson #3: Find Your Unique Approach in a Saturated Space
10:56 - Lesson #4: Leverage Existing Champions to Drive Global Ambition
15:11 - 3 Actionable Questions for You
If you enjoyed this, tune in to full episode with Johanna!
From Bootstrapped Startup to Finnish Tech Unicorn: RELEX Solutions' Rise w/ Johanna Småros, RELEX Solutions
🎙️Podcast: https://link.chtbl.com/bdm-johanna
🎞️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3moRBN0M5r0
🌐 Website: https://www.billiondollarmoves.com/from-bootstrap-to-finnish-tech-unicorn-relex-solutions-johanna-smaros/
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PODCAST INFO:
Podcast website: https://billiondollarmoves.com
Watch on Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/sarahchenglobal
Join the community: https://sarah-chen.ck.page/billiondollarmoves
FOLLOW SARAH:
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/sarahchenglobal
Instagram: https://instagram.com/sarahchenglobal
Twitter: https://twitter.com/sarahchenglobal -
This week’s episode features Nick Washburn, Senior Managing Director at Intel Capital. If you're an investor—or aspire to be—this conversation is a masterclass you won't want to miss.
For those who might not be familiar, Intel Capital is the venture capital arm of Intel Corporation, and it's long been considered the gold standard in the industry. They've backed legendary companies like Red Hat, VMware, and DocuSign, among others. Over the past three decades, they've seen more than 250 of their portfolio companies go public and have had another 500 successful exits. And since 2018 alone, Intel Capital has seen approximately $12 billion in market cap companies hit the public markets.
From the intricacies of reserve strategies to the common pitfalls that even seasoned VCs can stumble into, we’ve covered it all.
This insider look at the art and science of venture investing, especially from someone with Nick's experience, is packed with valuable insights. So, trust me, this is one conversation you don't want to miss!
TIMESTAMPS / KEY TAKEAWAYS
0:00 - Intro
01:32 - Lessons from ice hockey: “Go to where the puck was going”
02:39 - Shaping founders to be less output-focused; “All of the biggest outcomes are extreme outliers and there is no path.”
04:26 - Pattern matching; “Try to not focus necessarily on the background, but more of their understanding of the problem statement and why they feel best position to solve it.”
06:45 - The two sins in venture: sins of omission and commission
10:06 - The hyped AI field and what matters more to the devs and customers?
13:43 - Cybersecurity; singular platform versus best tools
16:10 - Core competency of Intel Capital in investment; “I invest both in developer tools and infrastructure software; if I don't look at them in the right aperture, I get it wildly wrong.”
19:49 - Inside Intel Capital: north of 250 IPOs and 500 exits in the past 30 years
24:19 - What has Intel Capital done right in structuring?; “You should lead with the goal and then reverse it in the process.”
27:48 - Nick’s personal journey from law school to investments; the imposter syndrome
31:44 - The anti-portfolio; FreshPaint: “They have not pivoted. They just reposition because that's where the market demand was coming.”
35:06 - On guiding founders; Charles Hudson’s “When to Intervene”
38:43 - The dynamics of Intel’s investment committee and strategy framework
42:17 - Takes on current market conditions
43:38 - Billion Dollar Questions
About Nick Washburn
Nick Washburn is a Senior Managing Director of Intel Capital located in Denver, CO. He joined Intel Capital in 2014.
Nick is a voting member of Intel Capital’s investment committee and co-manages Intel Capital’s cloud investment domain. He focuses on early-stage investments in cloud-native infrastructure, developer tools, artificial intelligence/machine learning, and data platforms.
Nick currently serves as a director or observer on the boards of Augtera Networks, Fly.io, Freshpaint, Moderne, OtterTune, and Tetrate. He also works closely on Intel Capital’s investments in Anyscale and Upbound.
In addition, Nick currently serves as a director on the board of the National Venture Capital Association, and he is a member of the Kauffman Fellows, Class 25. He is a proud father to amazing twin boys, he loves playing ice hockey, and he is an avid lover of all things outdoors, including skiing, mountain biking and rock climbing.
FOLLOW NICK:
LinkedIn | X/Twitter
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PODCAST INFO:
Podcast website: https://billiondollarmoves.com
Watch on Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/sarahchenglobal
Join the community: https://sarah-chen.ck.page/billiondollarmoves
FOLLOW SARAH:
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/sarahchenglobal
Instagram: https://instagram.com/sarahchenglobal
Twitter: https://twitter.com/sarahchenglobal -
Muslims are projected to constitute more than 25% of the world's total population this year. To many in the industry, this isn't just a statistic; it represents a vast array of opportunities for the markets.
This week, we are revisiting our conversation with Fara Abdullah, CEO of Bitsmedia, the brains behind the immensely popular Muslim lifestyle app, Muslim Pro.
With a fresh injection of $20 million from its Series A funding round, featuring participation from Gobi Partners, alongside continued backing from existing investors CMI Capital Partners and Bintang Capital Partners, Bitsmedia is poised to enhance the faith experience through cutting-edge technologies. Our discussion delves into various aspects, including the business landscape, the potential in faith-driven markets, and the interception of faith, finance, and technology.
TIMESTAMPS
0:00 - Intro
02:52 - Market opportunities in the Muslim community; Bitsmedia’s business model
07:39 - Challenging the misconceptions and templatization of Muslims
10:49 - Thesis behind the 160 million annual downloads of Muslim Pro: faith in challenging times and the modern Muslim lifestyle
15:13 - Bitsmedia’s ideal consumer profile and the growth of user base
20:30 - Business models and the biggest revenue drive for Bitsmedia
24:11 - Decision making and resource distribution as the CEO
26:52 - The role of technology in shaping faith and vice versa
30:31 - The idea of moderation and ethical interpretations with use of technologies
32:41 - Bitsmedia’s role in the interception of faith, finance and technology
34:35 - Observed trends of religious behaviors and attitudes; the socialization of faith
37:01 - Fundraising and choosing the right partners
39:46 - Billion dollar questions
3 Key Insights:
1/ The market is HUGE and there’s something for everyone.
With the global Muslim population surpassing 2 billion as we’re speaking now, the market needs continue to evolve.
Beyond facilitating religious practices, there's a plethora of avenues to explore, from educational content for children to virtual community building and financial services.
2/ Infusion of technology is inevitable in today’s world; we cannot simply steer away from it.
“Regardless of how afraid we are of it, how much we want to preserve certain things, this technology wave is coming,”
Despite concerns, the inevitable wave of technology presents significant opportunities.
According to Fara, embracing this wave requires courage while prioritizing community safety and moderation.
3/ See the market potential beyond complexity.
While the complexity of faith-related businesses may deter some, more and more investors recognize the immense potential within this market.
And just like any business, expertise and strategic vision are essential to harnessing these opportunities effectively.
ABOUT BITSMEDIA
Bitsmedia is a Singapore-based, technology company known globally as the developer and publisher of the Muslim Pro app – a highly-rated and comprehensive Muslim lifestyle app with more than 150 million downloads globally to date.
The company is also the publisher of Qalbox, a global subscription video on demand (SVoD) entertainment streaming service aimed at the global Muslim community.
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PODCAST INFO:
Podcast website: https://billiondollarmoves.com
Watch on Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/sarahchenglobal
Join the community: https://sarah-chen.ck.page/billiondollarmoves
FOLLOW SARAH:
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/sarahchenglobal
Instagram: https://instagram.com/sarahchenglobal
Twitter: https://twitter.com/sarahchenglobal -
We’re thrilled to feature Jyri Engeström, a serial entrepreneur who found early success with exits to Google and Groupon. Now an investor, Jyri continues to shape the startup landscape as a General Partner at Yes VC, the fund he co-founded with his partner, Caterina Fake, co-founder of Flickr. At the same time, Jyri makes significant strides in building and investing in startups alongside Petteri Koponen at Lifeline Ventures in Finland.We delve into the opportunities and technologies shaping the future, lessons Jyri has learned from his time in Silicon Valley, and how Finland is positioning itself as a global startup hub. Jyri’s deep understanding of network theory, social dynamics, and his curiosity about emerging markets—from space colonization to geopolitical shifts—makes this an episode you won’t want to miss.TIMESTAMP / KEY TAKEAWAYS0:00 - Intro02:41 - The Innovator’s Dilemma, Sociology, & bi-continental life in Finland & the US06:20 - Working in Nokia to founding Jaiku08:56 - Google’s acquisition of Jaiku12:52 - Selling Ditto to Groupon; “I knew to kill the app immediately after the acquisition,”16:09 - Lessons learned as a serial entrepreneur; leadership19:01 - New chapters with True Ventures and Yes VC; patterns of success in portfolio 25:04 - Yes VC’s super early stage approach; thoughts on legacy32:06 - Identifying the potential unicorns; how to be curiosity-driven, continuously37:00 - Minting the unicorns & the anti-portfolios39:37 - The founder product fit; Petteri Koponen’s pattern of success44:48 - Raising children; parallel entrepreneurship49:58 - The liquidity & exit landscape and deal flow in Finland today54:11 - Jyri's trajectory for the next five years; messages to global investors56:29 - Billion Dollar QuestionsBrought to you by Helsinki PartnersThe third edition of Founders to Finland Program helps international scale-upfounders build their business network in the Nordics. This 7-day program takes placein Helsinki in November, and its 15 selected participants get to experience the magicof the Slush startup conference and valuable side events with a free ticket. Expecthyper-relevant networking, personal introductions to local companies, and tailoredinfo sessions to learn more about the innovative spirit of the Finnish scale-up culture.Learn more and apply by September 1!ABOUT JYRIJyri has invested in several unicorns including Unity, Oura, Iceye and Boom Supersonic. Jyri’s entrepreneurial journey began with Jaiku, a mobile social networking service he co-founded with Petteri Koponen and sold to Google in 2007. He sold his second company Ditto, a recommendation service, to Groupon in 2012. In 2020 he founded Primary Diagnostics, a healthcare platform serving tens of millions of people across the U.S. For four years Jyri was at True Ventures, a leading Silicon Valley venture fund, where he invested in e.g. Iceye, the world’s largest radar satellite constellation, with Lifeline. Alongside Lifeline Ventures Jyri is Partner at Yes VC, a venture firm he co-founded with Caterina Fake in San Francisco. Yes VC has notable investments in carbon capture, post-fossil energy, space and AI. Jyri combines company-building with venture investing. “Entrepreneurship is a skill. It takes discipline and practice. Each company we build improves our hit rate going forward.”FOLLOW JYRI:LinkedIn | X/Twitter | Instagram | Podcast: Startup-Ministeriön -PODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://billiondollarmoves.comWatch on Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/sarahchenglobalJoin the community: https://sarah-chen.ck.page/billiondollarmovesFOLLOW SARAH:LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/sarahchenglobalInstagram: https://instagram.com/sarahchenglobalTwitter: https://twitter.com/sarahchenglobal
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