Episodios

  • AI Accelerator Insights w/ Jack Phan

    AI Accelerator Insights w/ Jack Phan
    Jan 20 2026
    In this episode of Next Round Ready, host Chris interviews Jack Phan from the Oregon AI Accelerator. They discuss the role of accelerators in helping founders, the unique approach of the Oregon AI Accelerator, and the importance of creating impactful solutions rather than just focusing on becoming the next unicorn. Jack shares insights on the accelerator's collaborative efforts, the hybrid model of in-person and virtual sessions, and the focus on empowering entrepreneurs without taking equity. The conversation also covers the rapid advancements in AI and the importance of building sustainable, self-sufficient companies.

    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction to the Oregon AI Accelerator
    03:00 Jack Phan's Entrepreneurial Journey
    06:00 The Role of Accelerators in Startup Growth
    09:00 Equity-Free Support and Its Benefits
    12:00 AI Advancements and Business Impact
    15:00 Hybrid Model of the Accelerator Program
    18:00 Preparing for Sustainable Growth

    Founders: https://founders.nextroundready.vc
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BDKzQtYCnXA&list=PL7dNehsr0g-63d2lG8UHP6s31_rFY6_O5
    Más Menos
    23 m
  • The Accidental Investor ft. Nishanth Lingamneni

    The Accidental Investor ft. Nishanth Lingamneni
    Jan 19 2026
    In this conversation, Chris and Nishanth Lingamneni discuss the journey of becoming an investor, focusing on the importance of relationships, investment strategies, and the decision-making process. Nishanth shares insights on what he looks for in founders, the significance of having a clear investment thesis, and the typical timeframes for fundraising. He emphasizes the importance of mentorship and connection in the startup ecosystem, as well as providing valuable advice for founders on pitching and fundraising effectively.

    Chapters
    00:00 The Journey to Investing
    02:59 Investment Strategy and Founder Focus
    05:46 Investment Thesis and Decision-Making Process
    08:44 Fundraising Process and Timeframes
    11:42 Goals and Impact as an Investor
    14:41 Engagement with Founders
    17:28 Advice for Founders on Fundraising


    Founders: https://founders.nextroundready.vc
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BDKzQtYCnXA&list=PL7dNehsr0g-63d2lG8UHP6s31_rFY6_O5
    Más Menos
    18 m
  • riverside_karen_rands - kurgan capital holdings_christopher_hines's

    riverside_karen_rands - kurgan capital holdings_christopher_hines's
    Jan 16 2026
    In this conversation, Chris and Karen Rands delve into the essence of entrepreneurship, discussing its significance in American culture and the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in securing funding. Karen emphasizes the importance of understanding the role of investors in entrepreneurial success and shares insights on the peaks and valleys of the entrepreneurial journey. They also explore the world of angel investing and crowdfunding, highlighting strategies for new investors and the potential for wealth creation through these avenues. Karen's experience and knowledge provide valuable guidance for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors alike.

    Join the community: https://founders.nextroundready.vc/

    Connect with Karen:
    • https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenrands
    • https://www.thecompassionatecapitalistshow.com/

    Takeaways
    00:00 The Essence of Entrepreneurship
    11:36 Navigating the Peaks and Valleys of Entrepreneurship
    22:34 Understanding Angel Investing and Crowdfunding
    32:09 Final Thoughts on Investing and Entrepreneurship


    Founders: https://founders.nextroundready.vc
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BDKzQtYCnXA&list=PL7dNehsr0g-63d2lG8UHP6s31_rFY6_O5
    Más Menos
    31 m
  • What Investors Love in Founders w/ Kevin Moore of Serac Ventures

    What Investors Love in Founders w/ Kevin Moore of Serac Ventures
    Jan 15 2026
    In this conversation, Kevin Moore from Sarac Ventures shares insights into the world of venture capital, discussing his journey into investing, the traits he looks for in founders, the importance of team dynamics, and red flags to watch out for in potential investments. He emphasizes the significance of curiosity, humility, and visionary thinking in successful founders, while also highlighting the challenges of attracting the right talent. Kevin provides advice for founders seeking capital, stressing the need to demonstrate the efficacy of their business model and to be transparent about risks. The discussion also touches on emerging market trends, particularly in consumer fintech and cybersecurity, and the revolutionary potential of innovative startups.

    Is your startup fundable? Get direct feedback from an investor: https://founders.nextroundready.vc/p/fund-or-pass-odonnell

    Founders: https://founders.nextroundready.vc
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BDKzQtYCnXA&list=PL7dNehsr0g-63d2lG8UHP6s31_rFY6_O5
    Más Menos
    29 m
  • The Truth About Startup Accelerators w/ Rick Turoczy

    The Truth About Startup Accelerators w/ Rick Turoczy
    Jan 14 2026
    In this conversation, Chris and Rick Turoczy delve into the world of startup accelerators, discussing their pros and cons, the importance of mentorship, and how founders can navigate the accelerator experience. Rick shares insights on choosing the right accelerator, maintaining momentum post-demo day, and understanding the venture capital landscape. He emphasizes the need for founders to engage actively in the process and not be overly attached to their ideas. The discussion also touches on the future of accelerators in a post-pandemic world and the importance of community and support for founders.

    Is your startup fundable? Get direct investor feedback: https://founders.nextroundready.vc/p/fund-or-pass-odonnell

    Founders: https://founders.nextroundready.vc
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BDKzQtYCnXA&list=PL7dNehsr0g-63d2lG8UHP6s31_rFY6_O5
    Más Menos
    29 m
  • The Journey from DocuSign to Founder Nexus w/ Court Lorenzini

    The Journey from DocuSign to Founder Nexus w/ Court Lorenzini
    Jan 13 2026
    In this episode, Chris interviews Court Lorenzini, co-founder of DocuSign and Founder Nexus. They discuss the journey of building successful startups, the lessons learned from failures, and the importance of community and collaboration among founders. Court shares insights on improving the odds of success for new ventures and the unique approach of Founder Nexus in fostering impactful relationships and decision-making among entrepreneurs.

    Learn more about Founder Nexus: https://foundernexus.com/

    Is your startup fundable? Get investor feedback: https://founders.nextroundready.vc/p/fund-or-pass-odonnell

    Founders: https://founders.nextroundready.vc
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BDKzQtYCnXA&list=PL7dNehsr0g-63d2lG8UHP6s31_rFY6_O5
    Más Menos
    32 m
  • Empowering Humanity with AI Aniket Naravanekar Skillsheet

    Empowering Humanity with AI Aniket Naravanekar Skillsheet
    Jan 12 2026
    This conversation explores the transformative potential of AI, emphasizing its role in empowering individuals and enhancing productivity. The discussion covers the integration of AI in the workplace, the ethical considerations surrounding its development, and the importance of collaboration in driving innovation. Real-world applications of AI technology are highlighted, showcasing its impact across various industries.

    Check out Skillsheet: https://www.skillsheet.me/

    Is your startup fundable? Get investor feedback: https://founders.nextroundready.vc/p/fund-or-pass-odonnell

    Founders: https://founders.nextroundready.vc
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BDKzQtYCnXA&list=PL7dNehsr0g-63d2lG8UHP6s31_rFY6_O5
    Más Menos
    31 m
  • Rook the API Solution ft. Marco Benitez

    Rook the API Solution ft. Marco Benitez
    Jan 9 2026
    In this conversation, Chris interviews Marco Benitez, founder of Rook, discussing the evolution of the company from a wearable tech startup to an API solution provider. Marco shares insights on the importance of partnerships, the challenges of integrating wearable data, and his passion for data science. He also discusses the current fundraising round and the vision for Rook's future as a leading data source in the wearable tech industry.

    Founders: https://founders.nextroundready.vc
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BDKzQtYCnXA&list=PL7dNehsr0g-63d2lG8UHP6s31_rFY6_O5
    Más Menos
    18 m