TBC: Can You Pitch a Big Vision?
In this episode of The Back Channel, we talk about the pressure founders feel to pitch a massive vision — and what actually makes that land with investors. VCs need to believe in billion-dollar outcomes, but that doesn’t mean you should throw out the biggest idea you can think of. Credibility, traction, and storytelling all shape how your vision is received. We also revisit the Airbnb pitch and why their big thinking worked — and how yours can too.
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TBC: 5 Controversial Fundraising Ideas
In this episode of The Back Channel, we dive into five thought-provoking strategies to elevate your fundraising game while challenging existing advice.
We explore concepts like pitch deck templates, riskiness of your idea, seeking rejection, tiering investors, and fundraising preparation.
Join us as we challenge norms and empower you to refine your fundraising tactics effectively.
TBC: Why Smart People Struggle With Fundraising
In this episode of The Backchannel, the focus is on why intelligent individuals often struggle with pitching to investors.
The discussion includes the common pitfalls such as overemphasizing data, battling imposter syndrome, and the tendency to overcomplicate pitches to prove intelligence.
The importance of simplicity, emotional connection, and embracing rejection as part of the fundraising process is also highlighted.
Overall, the episode provides valuable insights and strategies for intelligent founders to improve their pitching skills.
TBC: Answering Founders Questions About Pitch Decks
In this episode of The Backchannel, Jason answers 5 questions submitted by founders about pitch decks and pitching strategies.
During the episode, he highlights the importance of simplicity and clarity in both deck design and delivery.
Jason also discusses balancing design and content, conveying a compelling vision, and avoiding information overload.
On top of that he also touches on effective communication in short pitches and the strategic use of competition slides.
Make sure to listen to hear his full answers!
TBC: Understanding VC Signals
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!
TBC: Answering Your Questions About Getting Passed On
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!
TBC: Why Monthly Investor Newsletters Might Be a Bad Idea for Founders
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.
TBC: Is Silicon Valley Still the Place to Be for Startups?
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!
TBC: How Much Should I Raise?
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.
TBC: How I Work - For Easily Distracted Founders
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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