The NFX Podcast - podcast cover

The NFX Podcast

We believe creating something of true significance starts with seeing things others do not. NFX is a venture firm exclusively focused on pre-seed & seed stage startups.

Episodes

The 7 Powers with Hamilton Helmer & Jeff Lawson

In this episode, James Currier, Jeff Lawson, and Hamilton Helmer delve into the importance of defensibility, the 7 Powers of strategy, and the role of inventiveness. They discuss network economies using Uber as a case study, examine scale economies, and explore the concept of Counter Positioning. They also discuss the challenges for incumbents adapting to new business models, the power of branding, and cornered resources. The episode ends with insights on process power and developing entrepreneu...

Apr 29, 202136 minEp. 106

Hippo: From Idea to SPAC with CEO Assaf Wand & Pete Flint

In this episode, Pete Flint, Assaf Wand, and Kristen O'Brien discuss the insurance industry's challenges and innovations. They delve into Wand's learning journey and tactics for idea formation in regulated industries. They also explore Hippo's family-oriented culture, their growth during COVID-19, and the decision to go public via SPAC. The conversation concludes with a look at Hippo's future and their use of data and smart devices to prevent insurance claims.

Apr 27, 202151 minEp. 104

Austen Allred (Co-Founder of Lambda School) & James Currier (NFX) on The New American Dream

In this episode, James Currier, Austen Allred, and Kristen O'Brien discuss the societal pressures of higher education and the American Dream. They explore Lambda School's role in reshaping education, and the importance of aligning school incentives with student success. The trio compares international education systems, particularly Germany's, and the history and future of online education. They delve into the role of community in education, misunderstood aspects of startup success, and future e...

Apr 22, 202133 minEp. 103

The Founders' List: 2020 Letter to Amazon Shareholders

In this episode, Jeff Bezos and Kristen O'Brien discuss Bezos's vision for Amazon, its value creation for stakeholders, and the company's innovation. They also delve into Amazon's safety improvements and benefits, its initiatives in climate action and renewable energy, and the significance of distinctiveness in business. The episode concludes with a discussion on the CEO transition from Bezos to Andy Jassy.

Apr 21, 202124 minEp. 102

The CEO That Jeff Bezos Called “His Teacher” with Jeff Wilke & James Currier

In this episode, James Currier converses with Jeff Wilke about Amazon's leadership principles, writing culture, and the role of software architecture. They delve into individuality in leadership, the power of authenticity in communication, and the importance of teaching. They also touch on Jeff's new venture, Rebuild Manufacturing.

Apr 20, 202129 minEp. 98

A Proposal to Jack & Zuck: Chris Anderson (ex-WIRED) & James Currier on Regulating Social Media

In this episode, James Currier and Chris Anderson delve into the complexities of regulating social media, discussing the role of likes, extreme content, and the potential impact of nationalization on large companies like Facebook. They also explore the challenges faced by rapidly growing firms like Robinhood and address root algorithmic causes in tech companies.

Apr 12, 202147 minEp. 99

The Founders' List: Elad Gil on the 5 People Who Can Destroy Your Culture (Hiring Series)

This is The Founders' List - audio versions of essays from technology’s most important leaders, selected by the founder community. The old saying "one bad apple spoils the bunch" holds especially true for company culture. Keeping around any employee who is a bad culture fit can destroy your team's working environment. Below are some of the typical types of people who can hurt your culture: 1. The Jerk 2. The Whiner 3. Credit Taker 4. Charming Do Nothing 5. Loyalty Monger With culture fit, you sh...

Mar 30, 20216 minEp. 97

The Founders' List: Iman Abuzeid on Frameworks for Using Diversity to Win (Hiring Series)

In this episode, Kristen O'Brien and Iman Abuzeid explore diversity in the tech industry, discussing its benefits such as profitability, decision-making, and innovation. They delve into building diverse teams, funding for women and people of color, and the approaches notable investors take towards diverse investing. They also discuss implementing a data-driven approach to diversity, concluding with thoughts on diversity in tech and venture capital.

Mar 30, 202128 minEp. 96