In this episode of Time, Fuel, and Money, we slow down and reflect on what happens between the big events. Coming off two interviews at the BIO International Convention and the Paris Air Show, Deborah, Karim, and Vassili ask a simple but often overlooked question: Who are you beyond your pitch?
The conversation centers on character—not just what you’re building, but why you’re building it, and how you show up in the process. From transactional LinkedIn cold messages to founders stuck in pitch mode, we explore how trust, safety, and emotional presence shape relationships in biotech, investing, and beyond.
Karim shares lessons from an ethics conference and offers practical advice on authentic connection with investors. Vassili draws parallels between watchmaking and pharma, reminding us that even enabling technologies serve people. Deborah challenges the culture of urgency and highlights the power of simply asking, “What excites you?”
🧠 Topics we explore:
- Why the story behind your startup matters more than the deck
- How trust begins with emotional safety
- The overlooked value of curiosity in building investor relationships
- What founders get wrong about the “elevator pitch.”
- Transactional outreach vs. long-term connection
- The role of time, fuel, and money in defining real momentum
Whether you’re fundraising, building, or just trying to connect more deeply with others in your ecosystem—this episode reminds you why being human is still your best strategy.
🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.
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