VC/Unpacked #5
Next-Level Productivity | December 2020
This series curates great content that folks interested in entrepreneurism and venture capital should explore. Some are from my own must list; others have been suggested by our community.
Have a recommendation? Tell us about it.
READ
The Checklist Manifesto: How to Get Things Right
By Atul Gawande
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There’s this myth about freewheeling entrepreneurs with a no-boundaries approach to building their business. The truth is that building anything is mostly grind and getting stuff done. This book speaks to the power of the checklists in creating efficiency, consistency, and results. Gawande’s examples of utility abound, from medicine to construction, factories, aviation, and business—and I’ll add, venture capital.
READ
The Anti-Portfolio
By Bessemer Venture Partners
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Bessemer is a storied VC with plenty to brag about. Here, they put their egos aside and look at the facts: their list of Major Misses—companies they passed on that became wildly successful. Hilarious, humbling, and an object lesson in what it means to be a mature investor. Win or lose you must measure, honestly assess, and move on—determined to do better next time.
LISTEN
The Tim Ferriss Show
Hosted by Tim Ferriss
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It’s the #1 business podcast and has been selected three years in a row as one of Apple’s “Best of” podcasts. And it’s best in so many ways (it’s my go-to on family drives). You can learn from “world-class performers” in an incredibly wide variety of fields—from sports to acting, investing, writing, science, politics, art, and business. Ferriss specializes in very open, honest discussions that deliver practical insights into being your best self. With 400 interviews in the bag, there’s something for everyone in the car.
Alumni Ventures is a network-powered venture firm helping accredited individuals become more successful venture investors. Alumni Ventures was the most active venture capital investor in the U.S. in 2020 (per Pitchbook 2020 Global League Tables).