Venture Capital Coaches, Events, and Resources

I broke into venture capital from management consulting, navigating a path that required strategic networking, deep market curiosity, and a sharp understanding of what VC firms are really looking for. I’ve worked across the venture spectrum—from early-stage U.S. and Korean startups to growth-stage tech companies—and received offers from both early and growth VC firms. As part of a founding team at a new Korea-based fund, I helped raise a $100M inaugural fund and worked closely with partners on sourcing, diligence, and portfolio support, gaining firsthand exposure to what makes a compelling investment—and a strong candidate. On top of that, I’ve also sat on the other side of the table. I led the hiring process for analysts and interns, giving me insight into what funds actually prioritize in candidates—from resumes and cold emails to interviews and investment memos. I coach aspiring VCs on how to position themselves, craft a differentiated investment thesis, and convert networking into interviews. Whether you’re breaking in from consulting, banking, or an operating background, I can help you understand how the U.S. and Asian markets differ, what skills funds value at each stage, and how to tell a story that resonates. I also advise on fit—VC isn’t the right path for everyone, and I can help you assess whether the role aligns with your personality, goals, and long-term ambitions. If you’re exploring the space or actively recruiting, I provide honest, tactical, and nuanced guidance every step of the way.

Former founder turned venture investor and company helper. Happy to jam on anything related to fundraising, investing, recruiting, or transitioning into venture! For those on the MBA path, I also went to Wharton as part of the dual-degree Lauder Program. Happy to help with admissions, GMAT, Lauder qualifications, and anything else on your mind.

I've worked across four stages of the venture ecosystem: as an investor, as a founder who raised from VCs, as a banker who helps venture-backed companies structure their finances, and as an advisor to early-stage teams. I help people break into VC from non-traditional backgrounds, understand how venture decision-making actually works, and position themselves for roles at funds, accelerators, or corporate venture arms.

Prior to attending HBS I spent two years as an Investment Associate at the largest dedicated foodtech / agtech venture capital fund where I managed 30+ investments and advised 16 portfolio companies. I landed this role over dozens of finance applicants having no prior finance work experience and having gone to a state school. I want to help clients break into venture capital investing regardless of their background. Let's work together to build your technical acumen and craft your story for why you are a singularly qualified candidate for the role.

Welcome to my profile! With a deep background in venture capital and executive coaching, I am here to help you navigate the complexities of startup funding and leadership. As the author of "The Funding Framework," a #1 New Release in Venture Capital on Amazon, I provide actionable insights and expert strategies to transform your fundraising approach. My experience includes leading the portfolio value team at 500 Startups and serving as an Executive & Personal Growth Coach, where I've supported numerous founders in overcoming challenges such as fundraising difficulties and team-building issues. Whether you're looking to secure funding or enhance your leadership skills, I'm here to guide you every step of the way. Let's connect and start your journey to success!

Welcome to my profile! I'm John, and incoming student at the Stanford GSB and a current investor in a growth stage VC fund. Given the broad focus of my fund, I have a deep understanding of the startup ecosystem and what it takes to succeed in the world of venture capital. I have evaluated hundreds of multi-million dollar investment opportunities, conducted due diligence, prepared investment committee memos, and worked directly with CEOs to improve their businesses. As an Associate at KSV Global, I have honed my skills in financial modeling, deal sourcing, and managing advisors. Prior to that, I worked at Bain & Company, where I gained experience in private equity due diligence and commercial excellence. If you're looking to break into the venture capital industry or need guidance on your startup, I'm here to help. Let's connect and discuss how I can assist you in achieving your goals!

Natalie is a VC investor who built her career at Tier 1 firms through networking, not recruiters. As a Partner at Lightspeed Venture Partners, she invested across all stages. Previously, she worked at Y Combinator as their first junior investor and was Head of Binance Ventures. Now, she advises and invests independently through Ringside Ventures. Earlier in her career, Natalie worked in tech M&A at Qatalyst Partners, admissions at Y Combinator, and growth equity at Accel-KKR.

-Pivoted into Venture Capital from dropping out of medical school -Worked on 3 deals from scouting to close, including one international -Wrote literature on diligence and sector analysis in two different investment verticals

- Interned at M25 VC during MBA - Leveraged internship at FJ Labs during MBA into FT role - Have led / supported over 50 private markets transactions at FJ Labs - Head our India investment practice - Wrote about Opportunity Fund best practices & why diversification works in venture

Hey! I've been a Lead Venture Partner at Contrary Capital, intern at GSV Ventures (ed-tech focused fund), and scout for Pear VC. I also ran Cardinal Ventures, a nonprofit accelerator, wherein alumni companies have gone on to raise $540M+ in capital from Sequoia, First Round, Y Combinator, Tim Cook, Marissa Mayer, and more. Then, I founded College Ventures, a network of 60+ universities focused on launching student-run accelerators. Plus, I co-founded Friends & Family, a nonprofit for startup builders at Stanford. I'll also be headed back to Stanford in a few years to get my MBA at the GSB. I know what it's like to recruit into VC with no investing experience, craft a believable narrative, and curate a network that will help you succeed as an investor. I've cold-emailed my way into this industry, and I want to help you do the same!