In this episode, we sit down with Cody Sugarman, Principal at Antler, the world’s top seed-stage VC. Cody brings valuable insights into what it takes to launch and grow a successful startup in today’s tech-driven landscape. Drawing from his experience at Antler and his prior role leading Data Science at General Catalyst, Cody shares practical guidance on building focus, choosing the right investors, and validating your product with genuine customer feedback.
For founders navigating the early stages, Cody’s advice underscores the power of clear priorities, fast execution, and aligning with investors who share your vision. Tune in to learn how a strategic approach, combined with a commitment to understanding your customers, can fuel growth and create a lasting impact in the competitive startup world.
Chapters -
00:00 - Codys 500k investment in startups
00:28 - Cody One of Silicon Valley's Most Active Accelerators
00:48 - Super grateful for Cody's wisdom
01:03 - Intro, career, and startup highlights
02:47 - Fintech venture raised millions in London
03:12 - Venture funding, left, joined investing side
03:19 - Antler invests in early-stage companies in Southeast Asia
05:09 - Investment experience bootstrapped, angel, venture, either
08:58 - Red flag lack of commitment, entrepreneurial spirit
11:46 - Market-making strategies for venture investors
13:53 - Investing in the right people, at the right funds
16:00 - Startup advantage Focus on a specific problem
19:52 - Founder advice Dont need money, build enterprise
21:04 - Start with big chunky enterprise contracts
22:03 - Focus on smaller customers, raise money for product development
22:26 - Easy Vc 10 customers, 500k, 5x investment
22:54 - Job interview process
24:39 - High-level revenue opportunities for entrepreneurs
27:40 - Rare instances of founders not investing in companies
29:54 - Antler's advice for VCs Dont overweight generalists
30:38 - Portfolio companies encourage counseling, community helps
33:54 - Early-stage founders use money and slides
36:44 - Tips for VC rejections
41:05 - Breakout room for preselected companies
42:48 - Breakout room, global presence, and links
43:09 - Intro Client Out of Space Virtual Tours
44:38 - 3dgaussian sliding technology for property tours
46:42 - Copilot for market research
47:59 - Distribution strategy for V1 product in the pipeline
49:33 - Distribution expert Disney, Amazon, UC professor, tech cofounder
50:05 - Automated chat box for real estate agents
51:16 - Real estate agents communication problem solved
55:06 - Traction and funding for early-stage companies
56:37 - Vaporware vs LOI spectrum
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