Give First
Techstars
"Give First by Techstars" is a compelling podcast that dives deep into the ethos of giving without expecting anything in return—a principle that lies at the heart of successful entrepreneurial ecosystems. Hosted by experienced leaders from the global network of Techstars, the podcast features insightful conversations with founders, mentors, and investors who share their firsthand experiences of building startups and fostering growth through generosity and collaboration. Each episode unpacks the profound impact of mentorship and the powerful ripple effects of giving first in the business world. Listeners can expect to explore a variety of topics, from practical advice on navigating startup challenges to inspiring stories that illustrate the transformative power of support and community in the tech landscape. Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned investor, or simply curious about the inner workings of startup accelerators, "Give First by Techstars" offers valuable lessons and uplifting narratives that resonate with anyone who believes in the power of community and selfless support.
Episodes
Sliding into Diem
In this episode of the "Give First" podcast, hosted by Techstars with David Cohen and Brad Feld, guest Emma Bates shares her entrepreneurial journey with her startup, DM. Starting from her early influencer days to her time at notable startups like Wailer and Away, Bates describes her path to founding DM following a personal experience that highlighted the gaps in search tools for women. She delves into the challenges and strategies of fundraising as a female founder, having raised $3.7 million despite the odds. Bates also introduces listeners to DM, describing it as a social search engine that merges community insights with factual information, addressing the specific needs of women online. The episode provides a mix of personal anecdotes, professional insights, and practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women looking to navigate the predominantly male venture capital landscape.
The Sky's The Limit
In this episode of "The Sky's The Limit," host David Cohen interviews Kirill Bigai, the co-founder of Preply, a leading platform for language learning. The discussion covers Preply's evolution from its early days, including the pivotal moments that defined the company's growth trajectory. Kirill shares insights into the initial challenges, the decision to pivot to a recurring payment model, and the strategic shift towards international expansion. The narrative highlights how Preply navigated through adversity, such as geopolitical crises and the COVID-19 pandemic, underscoring the resilience and adaptability of its leadership. Additionally, the conversation delves into the internal culture at Preply, emphasizing the company's core values and the importance of a supportive and inclusive work environment. This episode not only explores the business aspects but also reflects on the personal impacts of entrepreneurship.