Back to Building: A note from Josh Withers

Josh Withers here, the voice behind True Builders. I'm hitting pause on the podcast for now to dive deep into building up the True platform. I was inspired by my guests; this is a time of innovation and inspiration, and I need to capitalize on that now. It's not a goodbye – just a strategic break to be more intentional about my journey.Not sure where the road leads for True Builders, but I'm excited about what's ahead for me and the whole True team. Thanks to our listeners for being an integral part of this community. It’s been an awesome ride, hope I’ll see you here again soon.

In business, success often seems like an elusive trophy reserved for the few who possess extraordinary vision and unshakable determination. But what if we told you that the road to success in the business arena is not as different from the world of athletics as you might think? Upfront Ventures’ general partner, Kobie Fuller is known for his exceptional vision and determination. He brings a wealth of experience to the table, having been a key player at Accel Partners and chief marketing officer at REVOLVE before joining Upfront Ventures in 2016. Specializing in SaaS, community, and marketing technologies, with a keen eye on emerging sectors like VR and AR, Kobie's early investment in Oculus, later acquired by Facebook for $2 billion, showcases his foresight. With a background in founding OpenView Venture Partners, where he invested in companies like Exact Target and Instructure, Kobie's track record is nothing short of impressive.In our conversation, we delve into his experiences as an investor exploring the keys to building successful businesses. From emphasizing the importance of health and wellness to discussing the concept of neutral thinking, we unravel the fabric of successful companies. Our conversation extends to the transformative impact of AI, the potential for disruption in the software industry, and the significance of being a mission-driven founder. We touch upon venture capital, the burgeoning entrepreneurship hub in the LA region, and the awe-inspiring perspective of seeing Earth from space. In the realm of success, Kobie Fuller stands as our adept guide, leading us to the coveted trophy of accomplishment.Our GuestKobie FullerKobie Fuller, a distinguished general partner at Upfront Ventures, brings his expertise to the forefront in SaaS, marketing technologies, and VR/AR. A Harvard graduate and former chief marketing officer of REVOLVE, Kobie's foresight is evident in his role as an early investor in Oculus. His diverse skill set and strategic vision make him a notable figure in the venture capital landscape.Resources & LinksTrue Builders Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/true-builders/id1677828595https://open.spotify.com/show/0nqdlsiBWoRIZ3fZV979ADhttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/53-true-builders-110873565/Kobie Fullerhttps://www.accel.com/https://upfront.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/kobiefuller/https://twitter.com/kobiefullerMentionedTrevor Moawad’s group: Limitless Minds: https://limitlessminds.com/

In a world where discussions about diversity, equity, and inclusion have taken center stage: How can we move beyond symbolic gestures to create workplaces where everyone genuinely feels valued? Businesses now realize that building a diverse workforce isn't just a moral obligation; it's a strategic game-changer.Porter Braswell is co-founder and executive chairman of Jopwell, dedicated to helping organizations recruit and hire underrepresented talent while effectively engaging with diverse communities of color. Jopwell recently became part of the True Platform through acquisition. Porter also spearheads a members-only network as the founder and CEO of 2045 Studio, connecting influential professionals of color with corporations, and forging pathways for enhanced employee belonging, retention, and career advancement. Our conversation with Porter covers the significance of DEI in the workplace, the complexities of diversity recruiting, and the need for more efficient approaches. Porter emphasizes the need for a for-profit approach to diversity solutions and shares his perspective on the term “diversity.” We also delve into the challenges faced by employees of color and the importance of open dialogues within corporations. Our conversation then shifts to the importance of trust and the concept of belonging in the workplace. e examine the delicate balance between a company's mission statement and the perspectives of its employees. Join us in recognizing the paramount role of trust, clear communication, and actionable steps in nurturing a culture of inclusion and understanding.Our Guest: Porter BraswellPorter Braswell is a dynamic leader, serving as co-founder and executive chairman of Jopwell, an HR tech platform facilitating career opportunities for diverse students and professionals. Porter's visionary leadership has propelled Jopwell to establish partnerships with over 400 prestigious American companies, resulting in thousands of meaningful connections within its community. Porter is also the founder and CEO of 2045 Studio, an exclusive network for senior-level professionals of color.Resources & LinksTrue Builders Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/true-builders/id1677828595https://open.spotify.com/show/0nqdlsiBWoRIZ3fZV979ADhttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/53-true-builders-110873565/Porter Braswellhttps://2045studio.com/https://www.jopwell.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/porter-braswell-7a097560/https://twitter.com/Porter_BraswellMentionedPorter’s Belonging LinkedIn Post: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/porter-braswell-7a097560_diversity-equity-inclusion-activity-6831929679574769664-L27H/“Principles: Life and Work” by Ray Dalio: https://www.amazon.com/Principles-Life-Work-Ray-Dalio/dp/1501124021

Embark on a journey into the dynamic world of business and tech trends with Rory O’Driscoll, Partner at Scale Venture Partners. In today's rapidly-evolving business landscape, staying ahead of the curve requires more than just a crystal ball. It demands a deep understanding of the shifting tides, such as the rise of Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) and cloud computing. As CEOs and founders continue to process advice and navigate the complex world of venture funding sources, they are acutely aware of the challenges posed by current market conditions. The reality is that some CEOs fail, and some founders stumble, but the key is not to fail too much.With 25 years of active investment experience, Rory is our guide, unraveling the complexities of predicting valuations and dissecting the evolving economy. As partner at Scale Venture Partners, he focuses on early-revenue software companies tapping into the SaaS and cloud-based enterprise computing surge. His remarkable track record, featuring successful investments in Bill.com, Box, DocuSign, and others, has earned him a place on the Forbes Midas List.In our conversation with Rory, we plunge into a spectrum of thought-provoking topics crucial for anyone intrigued by business, leadership, and technology trends. We explore the intricacies of predicting valuations and navigating the ever-changing economy, shedding light on the growing significance of SaaS and cloud computing. We emphasize the pivotal role of leaders in successfully navigating uncertainty and highlight the importance of data-driven decision-making in shaping the future of work. Drawing from his extensive experience, Rory outlines key qualities contributing to the success of founders and CEOs. We also tackle the challenges of self-awareness, offer valuable advice, and discuss strategies for recovering from failure while maintaining enthusiasm in one's work.Our GuestRory O'DriscollRory O'Driscoll, a Partner at Scale Venture Partners for more than a quarter-century, specializes in guiding early-revenue software firms as they embrace the realms of SaaS and cloud enterprise. Recognized on the Forbes Midas List, Rory boasts a track record of successful investments that underscores his seasoned expertise in the dynamic landscape of technology ventures.Resources & LinksTrue Builders Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/true-builders/id1677828595https://open.spotify.com/show/0nqdlsiBWoRIZ3fZV979ADhttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/53-true-builders-110873565/Rory O'DriscollScale Venture Partners Websitehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/roryodriscoll/MentionedSteering with a Madman in the Car

Our interview with Kevin Jones, CEO of Calabrio.In a world where consumers are more empowered and discerning than ever before, fostering meaningful connections with customers has become non-negotiable. In this episode, we are excited to be joined by Kevin Jones, the Chief Executive Officer at Calabrio. Kevin is no stranger to the technology services industry. With an impressive portfolio that includes roles at Rackspace, Dell, HP, and Herbalife, Kevin brings a wealth of experience to his current role at Calabrio. He joined the company seven months ago, eager to leverage his cloud and software experience. Calabrio operates on a true cloud-based SaaS model, providing contact center software that is revolutionizing the industry. Kevin's previous experience running contact centers gives him a unique perspective, allowing him to relate to their customers on a deeper level.During our conversation with Kevin, we discuss Calabrio's work in maximizing customer engagement and efficiency in contact centers, as well as Kevin's insights on the customer service industry. We delve into the potential of AI in call summarization, benchmarking, and automated call scoring. Kevin emphasizes the importance of prioritizing customers and the role of automation and AI in driving efficiency and revenue growth. We also touch on the challenges and transformations in business, the importance of customer focus, and the benefits of remote work. Kevin shares his experiences managing through pandemics and offers advice on succession planning, mentoring, and execution to strategy. He highlights the importance of maintaining an entrepreneurial culture while adding discipline and accountability during scaling. Kevin also discusses personal failings and the importance of creating an environment where people feel comfortable expressing their opinions and engaging in debates.

Our interview features Jim Rose, the CEO of CircleCI. CircleCI is a leading continuous integration and delivery platform catering to elite engineering teams globally.The current economic stability of today may seem daunting to some founders looking to launch their own companies. But Jim says now is the best time to start. “Instability in the market kind of means that the only people that are trying to start companies right now really wanna start companies,” he says, “You're not competing against 50 other companies that are trying to do the exact same thing as you, which is really helpful. It kind of gives you some elbow room to make mistakes.”Jim brings a wealth of experience to the table when it comes to running an innovative tech business. As the CEO of CircleCI, he spearheads a top-tier continuous integration and delivery platform utilized by elite engineering teams worldwide. Jim's journey to CircleCI includes co-founding and leading Distiller, an iOS-exclusive CI service, before its acquisition. He boasts an entrepreneurial track record with ventures like Copious, Vamoose (acquired by Internet Brands), and MobShop (pioneering group buying online, later acquired by Groupon). In our conversation with Jim, we explore his background and entrepreneurial experiences, shedding light on the evolution of startups and the paramount importance of crafting tools for end users. We delve deep into the convergence of tools and data in AI and machine learning, tackling challenges such as the “cold start problem” and pondering the potential ramifications of these technologies across various industries. Our discussion touches on the vital aspect of assembling the right team, grappling with complex problems, and staying adaptable in the ever-shifting technological landscape. Jim shares his insights on leadership, nurturing customer relationships, and maintaining equilibrium in turbulent times. We wrap up our conversation by emphasizing the significance of self-care and the joy of partaking in outdoor activities.In This Episode[00:00:37] Introduction to Jim[00:01:40] Jim’s lessons learned from founding startups across different industries[00:02:48] Jim's unique career journey and how he found himself in the DevOps phase[00:07:58] The necessity of converging tools and data to create meaningful outcomes[00:08:33] The potential and challenges of AI and machine learning[00:11:30] AI's transformative impact on software development[00:15:40] The importance of tackling low-level problems and the potential hindrance of abstraction[00:17:01] Insights into the shifting landscape of software development[00:21:21] Advice for aspiring founders on starting a company during market instability[00:24:35] Adaptation through pivoting: Responding effectively to market changes[00:26:34] Jim’s perspective on scale mode vs. pure startups[00:27:27] Balancing the challenges of scaling a business with fostering innovation[00:29:43] Leadership strategies for maintaining forward momentum in turbulent business environments[00:31:48] The significance of staying closely connected with customers amidst market fluctuations[00:34:12] Understanding renewal rates and their impact on market stability[00:36:54] Balancing personal preferences and business priorities for leaders[00:38:13] The art of making difficult decisions and maintaining a clear-eyed perspective[00:39:08] Leading by example and tackling unattractive tasks as a leader[00:44:24] The importance of cultivating interests outside of one's industry to stay fresh in business[00:46:47] Insights into the state of San Francisco's commercial real estate market and its post-COVID recovery[00:47:07] A discussion on the impact of mandates on the return to office policiesOur GuestJim RoseJim Rose, a notable figure in the tech industry, currently holds the position of CEO at CircleCI, a renowned company celebrated for its CI/CD platform. Jim's entrepreneurial journey is marked by significant milestones, including co-founding successful ventures like Distiller, Copious, Vamoose, and MobShop, some of which were later acquired, underscoring his impactful contributions to the technology landscape.Resources & LinksTrue Builders Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/true-builders/id1677828595https://open.spotify.com/show/0nqdlsiBWoRIZ3fZV979ADhttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/53-true-builders-110873565/Jim Rosehttps://circleci.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimdotrose/

Our interview with Mike McDerment, the former CEO of FreshBooks.Have you ever wondered what it takes to be a founder? The journey of starting and running a company is filled with challenges, surprises, and personal growth. It requires finding inspiration, staying close to customers, and balancing operations with a clear vision. As a founder, you have the opportunity to create something meaningful, solve customer problems, and build a team that shares your passion.In this episode, we are delighted to feature Mike McDerment . Mike is a serial entrepreneur with multiple ventures to his name, and is prominently recognized for his extensive tenure as the founder and CEO of FreshBooks. FreshBooks is the #1 accounting software in the cloud, designed exclusively for freelancers and growing service-based business owners. In addition to various other endeavors, FreshBooks stands as the cornerstone of his career. Although he initially held the CEO position for a significant duration, Mike eventually transitioned out of that role a few years ago. Mike has also co-authored ‘Breaking The Time Barrier’—a guide to using value-based pricing to unlock your true earning potential—which has been downloaded more than 250,000 times.During our conversation with Mike, we discuss the challenges and surprises of being a founder, with Mike sharing his experiences and personal growth throughout his 20-year journey with FreshBooks. We also touch on topics such as staying close to customers, finding sources of inspiration, and the evolving role of a CEO. He emphasizes the importance of open communication, healthy conflict, and staying connected with the team. We also discuss internal succession, fundraising, and the future of technology, including crypto and data. Mike advises founders to join multiple boards for diverse perspectives.

Our interview with Shalini Rao, partner at TCV.In 2021, a dynamic global landscape yielded crucial insights for investors and businesses. Unprecedented events created both opportunities and challenges, stimulating engaging discussions.In this episode, we are joined by Shalini Rao. Shalini is an experienced investor and financial specialist who is enthusiastic about supporting technology-driven companies. She has been a crucial part of TCV since 2023, concentrating on investing in software, fintech, and consumer internet industries. In her earlier position as a partner at Generation Investment Management, Shalini actively promoted growth-stage technology companies led by teams driven by a clear mission. She earned her M.Sc. in Finance from the London School of Economics and holds a B.A. from Harvard University.During our conversation with Shalini, we dive into the changes that have occurred in the VC landscape regarding how venture capitalists collaborate with founders and companies. Shalini also shares the lessons they learned in 2021, which are beneficial for both investors and firms. We examine the profound impact of AI on the investment landscape and discuss effective strategies for evaluating and supporting startups in today's market conditions. Moreover, we highlight the importance of cultivating strong relationships and fostering trust within the workplace. We conclude our discussion by offering practical advice on maintaining energy and gaining a fresh perspective in one's career. The insights and viewpoints presented provide valuable guidance for founders and investors alike.Our GuestShalini RaoShalini Rao is an experienced investor that joined TCV in 2023, focusing on software, fintech, and consumer internet companies. She was formerly a partner at Generation Investment Management and has invested in mission-driven tech firms. With a B.A. from Harvard and M.Sc. from the London School of Economics, Shalini brings strong financial expertise.Resources & LinksTrue Builders Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/true-builders/id1677828595https://open.spotify.com/show/0nqdlsiBWoRIZ3fZV979ADhttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/53-true-builders-110873565/Shalini RaoTCV Websitehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/shalinikrao/

This episode features Julio Avalos, former chief business and operations officer at GitHub and co-founder of news app Shades. Can a company truly thrive with a remote workforce while maintaining a flat management structure? Look no further than GitHub, a trailblazing organization that has not only embraced the challenges of remote work but has redefined the very essence of organizational success.In this episode, we are thrilled to be joined by Julio Avalos. Julio the former Chief Business and Operations Officer at GitHub and the co-founder of Shades, a curated news app. Julio has also held prominent positions at Observable and Merico, shaping their strategies, operations and legal affairs. In our conversation with Julio, we discuss organizational structure and remote work at GitHub. Julio shares his experiences from his time at GitHub, including the challenges of managing a remote workforce. We talk about GitHub's flat management model and how they had to adapt their approach as the company grew. Julio emphasizes the importance of flexibility and autonomy for different teams and departments. We also talk about the challenges of shifting focus to enterprise clients and the importance of defining and documenting company culture and values. We touch on empathy and emotional intelligence in leadership, personal growth in the workplace, and the creation of Shades, a curated news app.

Have you ever found yourself captivated by the fast-paced world of technology, where innovations seem to materialize overnight, transforming the way we live, work, and connect? The tech industry is a mesmerizing realm, where startups rise and fall, groundbreaking technologies reshape entire industries, and visionary entrepreneurs challenge the boundaries of what is possible. It's a landscape that never ceases to amaze, with its constant flux and relentless pursuit of progress.In this episode, we sit down with Maëlle Gavet, the CEO of Techstars.Techstars is a global investment business that provides access to capital, one-on-one mentorship, a worldwide network and customized programming for early-stage entrepreneurs.In our conversation with Maëlle, we delve into the ever-changing tech industry, examining the transformation of tech companies and the distinction between "unicorns" and "dragons" in startups. We highlight the importance of vetting venture firms for successful partnerships and discuss essential traits exhibited by effective CEOs before diving deep into empathy as a vital trait for tech leaders and as an effective tool for decision-making. Additionally, we analyze the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the tech sector and explore the global distribution of talent and opportunities within the startup ecosystem. Finally, we gain valuable insights on managing workload and finding personal balance in the fast-paced and demanding tech industry.