Why your "why" matters : Purpose driven Investing ft. Earnest Sweat | Ep. 25

In this milestone 25th episode of Startups Dil Se, host Anthony Prakash sits down with Earnest Sweat, a distinguished venture capitalist from the Bay Area who exemplifies authentic leadership in the investment world. Earnest opens up about his remarkable journey from Little Rock, Arkansas, to the heart of Silicon Valley, sharing how his parents—a computer science graduate and dedicated educator—instilled in him the values of lifelong learning and investing in others' success.

What You'll Learn:

• How a transformative summer in New Delhi, India, led Ernest to discover his true calling in venture capital
• The honest story behind his failed startup experience and the invaluable lessons it taught him
• Why "learning velocity" is the critical skill every founder needs in today's rapidly changing market
• Ernest's vision for Stresswood and how he supports founders who can navigate dynamic challenges
• The importance of resilience, discernment, and having a clear "why" in both investing and entrepreneurship
• How to build strong, adaptable teams that thrive through uncertainty

Earnest's path from equity research analyst to failed founder to successful VC offers powerful insights into the art and science of investing. His humility, combined with deep wisdom about market dynamics and human potential, makes this conversation essential listening for founders, investors, and anyone navigating career transitions.

This episode explores the intersection of personal growth, professional success, and the evolving landscape of venture capital through the lens of someone who's lived every side of the startup ecosystem.

Guest: Ernest Sweatt, Venture Capitalist at Stresswood
Host: Anthony Prakash

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Startups Dil Se is a podcast dedicated to authentic conversations with entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators who are shaping the future of business. New episodes drop every 2 weeks.
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