In this episode of Tech Scenes Unplugged, Jeff Martin sits down with Victor Pascucci III, an accomplished venture capitalist and the driving force behind Energy Capital Ventures, the only early-stage VC fund solely focused on the sustainability, resilience, and digital transformation of the natural gas industry. With over 19 years of experience and a top-decile performance track record, Vic shares his expertise on ESG imperatives, green molecule innovation, and the evolving role of venture capital in the energy sector.

Energy Capital Ventures combines the innovation of the startup ecosystem with the scale of the energy industry, enabling game-changing companies that deliver clean, safe, reliable, and cost-effective energy for all communities. Through a unique focus on "Green Molecules™," the firm is driving decarbonization and fostering the next generation of sustainable energy solutions.

Key Takeaways:

"Green Molecules™" are a game-changer for decarbonizing the energy sector.
Energy Capital Ventures is uniquely positioned to blend startup innovation with large-scale energy solutions.
The fund focuses on building sustainable, resilient, and cost-effective energy systems.
Hydrogen and sustainable aviation fuels represent promising green molecule opportunities.
Strategic partnerships with utility companies help de-risk deep tech ventures.
Transparency, intellectual honesty, and purpose-driven leadership are critical to success.
Deep tech requires unique funding strategies and a long-term vision for scaling.
Venture capital is evolving toward pragmatic, capital-efficient investment strategies.
Building strong teams and selecting aligned investors are crucial for early-stage success.
A clear and compelling mission helps startups navigate challenges and drive innovation.

Chapters:

0:00 - Introduction to Venture Challenges
1:15 - Welcome to Tech Scenes with Vic
1:36 - Energy Capital Ventures Overview
3:50 - Green Molecules Explained
5:00 - Portfolio Highlights
8:31 - Fund Structure and Investors
10:00 - Challenges in the Green Molecule Space
11:37 - Vic’s Career Journey
14:53 - The Future of Green Molecules
15:50 - Investing Criteria
19:06 - Overcoming Founder Challenges
20:00 - Scaling Deep Tech
22:06 - High Risk, High Reward
23:16 - Funding for Deep Tech Startups
25:26 - Venture Capital Market Trends
28:41 - Testing and Iterating in Venture
31:10 - Raising Capital Efficiently
32:15 - Desert Island Album

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated with all our episodes, where we bring you the untold stories of innovation and leadership from the tech world, only on Tech Scenes Unplugged.

Learn more about the book “Peak Teams - Mastering the Habit of Unstoppable Venture-backed Companies” - https://a.co/d/hp5Jtnu

Visit Collective Genius to Build your Venture-backed Team with the Peak Operating System - www.collective-genius.com

Music by Andrew Applepie - https://soundcloud.com/andrewapplepie

#collectivegenius #peakoperatingsystem #energycapitalventures #victorpascucci #greentechnology #venturecapital #sustainability #greenmolecules #deeptech #startups #innovation

In this episode of Tech Scenes Unplugged, Jeff Martin sits down with Evgeny Klochikhin, CEO and Founder of Sheeva.AI, a global innovator revolutionizing the automotive industry with in-car payments and commerce solutions. Sheeva.AI's patented geolocation technology is transforming the driver experience by enabling seamless and secure payments for fueling, EV charging, parking, and more—all from the vehicle’s in-dash screen. Evgeny shares his journey from international relations to leading a tech-driven startup, detailing the inception of Sheeva.AI, the challenges of global expansion, and the complexities of building a market for in-vehicle payments. The conversation explores the role of strategic partnerships with international automakers, the future of software-defined vehicles, and how user experience is becoming a key differentiator in the automotive space. Evgeny also reflects on his entrepreneurial challenges, the value of networking through Techstars, and the importance of balancing patience and persistence in scaling a business. Key Takeaways: Sheeva.AI enables precise in-car payments through patented geolocation technology. User experience is a growing competitive edge in the automotive industry. The future of vehicles lies in software-defined systems and seamless tech integration. Global expansion requires navigating diverse payment ecosystems and forging strategic partnerships. Strategic investors are often better suited for disruptive innovations than traditional VCs. Hustle, persistence, and networking are critical for entrepreneurial success. Leadership vision, clear communication, and team alignment drive a startup’s growth. Chapters: Introduction to Sheeva.AI and Its Origins Evgeny Klochikhin’s Career Path and Global Vision Strategic Partnerships in the Automotive Industry The Future of Software-Defined Vehicles Challenges of Creating a New Market for In-Car Payments Insights from the Techstars Network Fundraising Strategies for Startups Balancing Aggression and Patience in Business Growth Scaling a Startup with Effective Communication and Alignment Reflections on Team Dynamics and Leadership Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated with all our episodes, where we bring you the untold stories of innovation and leadership from the tech world, only on Tech Scenes Unplugged. Learn more about the book “Peak Teams - Mastering the Habit of Unstoppable Venture-backed Companies” - https://a.co/d/hp5Jtnu Visit Collective Genius to Build your Venture-backed Team with the Peak Operating System - www.collective-genius.com Music by Andrew Applepie - https://soundcloud.com/andrewapplepie #collectivegenius #peakoperatingsystem #peakos #vbos #innovation #startups #SheevaAI #EvgenyKlochikhin #automotivetechnology #incarpayments #cybersecurity #entrepreneurship #softwaredefinedvehicles #fundraising #teamalignment

In this episode of Tech Scenes Unplugged, Jeff Martin sits down with Ayal Yogev, CEO and Co-founder of Anjuna Security, a company pioneering confidential computing with its Universal Confidential Computing Platform. With over 20 years of experience in enterprise security, Ayal brings a wealth of expertise in building secure, innovative solutions for industries like financial services, government, and blockchain.

Anjuna's Seaglass platform creates a zero-trust environment by intrinsically securing data in every state—at rest, in transit, and in use. This groundbreaking technology allows enterprises to isolate workloads and enforce application-level trust policies, enabling them to maintain security and privacy without compromising collaboration or efficiency.

In this engaging conversation, Ayal shares his journey through the cybersecurity landscape, lessons from his roles at SafeBreach, OpenDNS, and Imperva, and his transformative experience at Y Combinator. Topics include product management dynamics, fostering customer relationships, and the importance of quick iterations in building a successful startup. Jeff and Ayal also discuss the challenges and strategies for managing remote teams, navigating deep tech fundraising, and building a strong network for long-term success.

Key Takeaways:

• Anjuna empowers enterprises with hardware-assisted confidential computing.
• Handling sensitive data securely is vital for regulated industries.
• Listening to customer feedback is critical in product development.
• CEOs should empower product leaders and focus on strategic oversight.
• Y Combinator emphasizes the importance of customer love over competition.
• Quick iterations and agile methodologies drive startup success.
• Remote work can succeed with well-designed systems and communication tools.
• Building a supportive network of investors and advisors is crucial for founders.
• Persistence and resilience are key in fundraising and entrepreneurial journeys.

Chapters:

• Introduction to Ayal Yogev and Anjuna Security
• The Role of Confidential Computing in Cybersecurity
• Insights from Y Combinator and Early Startup Lessons
• Product Management Dynamics in High-Tech Startups
• The Importance of Quick Iterations and Customer Feedback
• Navigating Compliance and Security Challenges
• Managing Remote Teams and Building Company Culture
• Fundraising Strategies for Deep Tech Startups
• Reflections on the Entrepreneurial Journey and Personal Insights

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated with all our episodes, where we bring you the untold stories of innovation and leadership from the tech world, only on Tech Scenes Unplugged.

Learn more about the book “Peak Teams - Mastering the Habit of Unstoppable Venture-backed Companies” - https://a.co/d/hp5Jtnu

Visit Collective Genius to Build your Venture-backed Team with the Peak Operating System - www.collective-genius.com

Music by Andrew Applepie - https://soundcloud.com/andrewapplepie

#collectivegenius #peakoperatingsystem #peakos #vbos #innovation #startups #cybersecurity #AnjunaSecurity #AyalYogev #confidentialcomputing #entrepreneurship #CEOjourney #productmanagement

In this episode of Tech Scenes Unplugged, Jeff Martin reconnects with Troy Henikoff, a serial entrepreneur and investor with a rich history of building and scaling successful technology companies. Currently the Managing Director of Math Venture Partners, Troy has helped shape the startup ecosystem by focusing on execution, founder evaluation, and creating lasting value in businesses.

Math Venture Partners is a venture capital fund specializing in technical and digital companies, supporting their growth with a hands-on approach. With experience scaling businesses to a combined value of over $7 billion, the MATH team excels in helping companies master financials, marketing, sales, and team scaling.

In this conversation, Troy reflects on his entrepreneurial journey and shares insights into his work at Math Venture Partners and Techstars. Topics include the critical role of execution in startups, evaluating founders, the evolution of leadership, and the importance of lifelong learning. The discussion also covers collaborative leadership, board dynamics, and the necessity of transparency and intellectual honesty in business. Troy emphasizes focusing on value creation, capital efficiency, and fostering diversity and trust in decision-making processes.

Key Takeaways:

Execution, not just the idea, is the key to startup success.

Founders and teams play a pivotal role in early-stage company growth.

Leadership skills must evolve as companies scale from startup to maturity.

Lifelong learning is essential for entrepreneurs and investors.

Board meetings should prioritize interaction, problem-solving, and opportunities.

Intellectual honesty and accountability are vital for accurate forecasting and budgeting.

Delivering real value to customers should take precedence over fundraising.

Capital efficiency is a core responsibility of the CEO.

Transparency fosters trust between management and the board.

Collaborative leadership creates a positive, effective work environment.

Chapters:

Introduction to Troy Henikoff and Math Venture Partners

The Importance of Execution in Startups

Evaluating Founders and Teams for Success

Leadership Evolution in High-Growth Companies

Lifelong Learning as an Entrepreneur and Investor

Collaborative Leadership and Board Dynamics

Focusing on Value Creation Over Fundraising

Intellectual Honesty in Forecasting and Budgeting

The Role of the CEO in Capital Efficience

Building Trust Through Transparency

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated with all our episodes, where we bring you the untold stories of innovation and leadership from the tech world, only on Tech Scenes Unplugged.

Learn more about the book “Peak Teams - Mastering the Habit of Unstoppable Venture-backed Companies” - https://a.co/d/hp5Jtnu

Visit Collective Genius to Build your Venture-backed Team with the Peak Operating System - www.collective-genius.com

Music by Andrew Applepie - https://soundcloud.com/andrewapplepie

#collectivegenius #peakoperatingsystem #peakos #vbos #innovation #startups #venturecapital #TroyHenikoff #MathVenturePartners #Techstars #entrepreneurship #leadership #execution #teamdynamics

In this episode of Tech Scenes Unplugged, we sit down with Reyes Florez, the innovative CEO and Founder of Platform Accounting Group. With a background spanning Goldman Sachs, Credit Suisse, and his family’s boutique accounting firm, Reyes brings a unique blend of high-level finance expertise and hands-on operational knowledge to his leadership. Under his guidance, Platform Accounting is redefining professional services by merging the personalized touch of boutique firms with the technology and connectedness of the modern era. Platform Accounting Group provides enterprise-grade resources and support to local accounting teams, enabling them to focus on high-touch client relationships while thriving in an increasingly complex environment. Offering services in tax, attest, outsourced accounting, ERP consulting, and soon wealth management, Platform is committed to evolving the accounting industry without losing what makes boutique firms special. In this episode, Reyes and Jeff Martin discuss the evolution of accounting, acquisition strategy, and how Platform is leveraging technology and AI tools to streamline operations. They dive into workforce development, building stronger firms, and Reyes’ approach to growth planning with the 3-1-90 strategy. The conversation also explores the importance of the Peak Operating System in fostering aligned and future-ready teams. Key Takeaways: Platform Accounting combines the culture of boutique firms with modern technology to support professional service teams. Reyes brings a unique blend of financial expertise and operational experience to his leadership. Leveraging AI and technology can enhance client services and operational efficiency. Workforce development and team alignment are critical for building stronger, future-ready firms. The 3-1-90 strategy and Peak Operating System provide a framework for planning and executing growth. Acquisition strategy plays a key role in scaling and preserving boutique firm dynamics. Chapters: Introduction to Reyes Florez and Platform Accounting The Evolution of Accounting and Professional Services Platform’s Acquisition Strategy and Growth Leveraging Technology and AI in Accounting Workforce Development and Building Stronger Firms The Role of the Peak Operating System in Team Alignment Insights on the 3-1-90 Planning Strategy Reflections on the Future of Accounting and Professional Services Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated with all our episodes, where we bring you the untold stories of innovation and leadership from the tech world, only on Tech Scenes Unplugged. Learn more about the book “Peak Teams - Mastering the Habit of Unstoppable Venture-backed Companies” - https://a.co/d/hp5Jtnu Visit Collective Genius to Build your Venture-backed Team with the Peak Operating System - www.collective-genius.com Music by Andrew Applepie - https://soundcloud.com/andrewapplepie #collectivegenius #peakoperatingsystem #peakos #vbos #innovation #startups #accounting #PlatformAccountingGroup #ReyesFlorez #entrepreneurship #ceo #growthcompany #AItools #teambuilding

In this episode of Tech Scenes, we take a ride with Robyn Ward, the CEO of FounderForward. Robyn shares her passion for empowering high-impact entrepreneurs and executives by cultivating exceptional leadership within themselves and their teams. With 20 years of experience working at high-growth companies and expertise in positive psychology, performance science, and conscious leadership, Robyn is redefining how leaders and teams scale and succeed. FounderForward’s transformative work has guided teams at companies like Ritual, Ordermark, and Alloy Financial. Robyn’s journey includes launching the strategic investment arm of United Talent Agency, where she drove investments in standout companies like Patreon and Thrive Market. As a mentor, advisor, and teacher at USC, Robyn is committed to increasing diversity and inclusion in the tech ecosystem and amplifying female founders and leaders. In this episode, Robyn and Jeff James Martin discuss empowering leadership frameworks, strategies for overcoming personal barriers, and the art of upscaling leadership teams for high growth. Robyn also reflects on her time building venture at UTA, shares insights on creating empowered teams, and explores the challenges and rewards of working with next-generation leaders. Key Takeaways: FounderForward focuses on cultivating exceptional leadership in high-growth teams. Robyn’s leadership combines extensive business experience with performance science. Empowering teams and leaders requires removing personal barriers to growth. Building empowered teams fosters innovation and resilience in high-pressure environments. Mentorship and diversity are essential for creating an inclusive tech ecosystem. High-growth leadership demands adaptability and a commitment to continuous learning. Chapters: Introduction to Robyn Ward and FounderForward Empowering Leadership Frameworks for Teams Building Venture at United Talent Agency Overcoming Personal Barriers to Growth Strategies for Upscaling Leadership Teams Mentorship and Increasing Diversity in Tech Reflections on Empowered Teams and Leadership Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated with all our episodes, where we bring you the untold stories of innovation and leadership from the tech world, only on Tech Scenes. Learn more about the book “Peak Teams - Mastering the Habit of Unstoppable Venture-backed Companies” - https://a.co/d/hp5Jtnu Visit Collective Genius to Build your Venture-backed Team with the Peak Operating System - www.collective-genius.com Music by Andrew Applepie - https://soundcloud.com/andrewapplepie #collectivegenius #peakoperatingsystem #peakos #vbos #innovation #venturecapital #startups #leadership #FounderForward #RobynWard #entrepreneurship #ceo #diversity #inclusion #highgrowth #teambuilding

In this episode of Tech Scenes Unplugged, we sit down with Paul Singh, a seasoned entrepreneur, investor, and founder of Results Junkies. With a mission to invest in 200 companies across North America each year, Paul and his team travel coast-to-coast, engaging with startup ecosystems in cities that are often overlooked by traditional venture capitalists. His approach is a unique blend of "tech possibilities" and "main street realities," creating a diversified portfolio that reflects both cutting-edge technology and everyday businesses.

Paul’s entrepreneurial journey spans from his early days selling websites in high school to building a successful data center business, co-founding 500 Global, and developing an investment philosophy that emphasizes execution, transparency, and adaptability. In this episode, he and Jeff Martin explore the nuances of entrepreneurship, highlighting the importance of building a company—not just a product—and using data to drive investment decisions.

From the iterative process of experimentation in business to the evolving roles of founders and the impact of technology, Paul provides invaluable insights on entrepreneurship, investment strategy, and the mindset required to navigate today’s dynamic business landscape.

Key Takeaways:

• Entrepreneurship is a mix of execution and luck, and starting small can lead to significant growth.
• Transparency in leadership fosters collaboration and innovation.
• Building relationships and investing time can lead to unexpected opportunities.
• Continuous iteration and experimentation are essential to discovering what works in business.
• Founders’ roles evolve as companies grow; adaptability is key.
• Using data to drive decisions is crucial for investment success.
• Access to the right deals is a competitive advantage in venture capital.
• Focusing on building a sustainable company, not just a sellable product, leads to lasting impact.

Chapters:

• Introduction and Early Connections
• The Journey Begins: Early Entrepreneurship
• Growth and Transformation of a Business
• Navigating Transparency and Collaboration in Business
• Transitioning to Investment and Future Endeavors
• The Evolution of Data Centers and Angel Investing
• Founding 500 Global: A New Venture
• Prioritizing Fun and Profit in Business
• The Importance of Time, Money, and Energy
• Operator, Owner, and Investor Mindsets
• The Distinction Between Entrepreneurship and Innovation
• Embracing Entrepreneurship Over Innovation
• The Importance of Building a Company, Not Just a Product
• The Dialing-In Process: Experimentation and Iteration
• The Evolving Role of Founders in Growing Companies
• The Impact of Technology on Company Size and Structure
• The 5% Rule: Winning by Being Less Worse
• Moneyball for Startups: Data-Driven Decision Making

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated with all our episodes, where we bring you the untold stories of innovation and leadership from the tech world, only on Tech Scenes Unplugged.

Learn more about the book “Peak Teams - Mastering the Habit of Unstoppable Venture-backed Companies” - https://a.co/d/hp5Jtnu

Visit Collective Genius to Build your Venture-backed Team with the Peak Operating System - www.collective-genius.com

Music by Andrew Applepie - https://soundcloud.com/andrewapplepie

#collectivegenius #peakoperatingsystem #peakos #vbos #innovation #venturecapital #startups #entrepreneurship #PaulSingh #ResultsJunkies #500Global #data #investment #startupculture #founderjourney #leadership

In this episode of Tech Scenes Unplugged, we sit down with Rathna Sharad, the founder and CEO of FlavorCloud, a cross-border shipping platform that’s transforming the logistics landscape for direct-to-consumer brands. Drawing on her 20+ years of experience in global supply chain and e-commerce, Rathna has built a powerful “anywhere-to-anywhere” logistics solution that empowers brands to operate seamlessly on a global scale.

Founded in 2018, FlavorCloud simplifies international shipping for mid-to-large enterprise merchants by abstracting the complexity of customs, carrier disruptions, and compliance. The platform enables businesses to offer guaranteed global delivery with best-in-class rates and a streamlined checkout process, unlocking new revenue opportunities in a $4.8 trillion global B2C and $7.3 trillion B2B e-commerce market.

In this episode, Rathna shares her journey from developer to entrepreneur, offering insights into the complexities of logistics, the challenges of scaling a remote-first team, and the importance of community support among founders. She emphasizes continuous learning and adaptation in a constantly evolving industry, providing valuable advice for early-stage founders, along with reflections on her fundraising journey and team dynamics.

Key Takeaways:

• FlavorCloud simplifies cross-border shipping, making it as easy as domestic logistics for brands and retailers.
• Rathna’s journey spans 20+ years in global supply chain and logistics.
• The logistics industry is complex and ripe for disruption, especially with the power of technology.
• Continuous learning and embracing discomfort are essential for entrepreneurs.
• Remote work creates unique challenges in team alignment and communication.
• Fundraising requires a structured and disciplined approach for efficiency.
• Community support is crucial in navigating the entrepreneurial journey.
• Scaling a startup involves adapting to changing team dynamics and regulatory hurdles.

Chapters:

• Introduction to Rathna Sharad and FlavorCloud
• The Complexities of Cross-Border Logistics
• Rathna’s Journey in Logistics and E-commerce
• FlavorCloud’s Mission to Simplify Global Commerce
• The Challenges of Scaling a Remote-First Team
• Fundraising Insights and Strategies
• The Role of Community in Entrepreneurship
• Embracing Discomfort and Continuous Learning
• Regulatory Compliance in the Logistics Industry
• Final Thoughts and Advice for Founders

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated with all our episodes, where we bring you the untold stories of innovation and leadership from the tech world, only on Tech Scenes Unplugged.

Learn more about the book “Peak Teams - Mastering the Habit of Unstoppable Venture-backed Companies” - https://a.co/d/hp5Jtnu

Visit Collective Genius to Build your Venture-backed Team with the Peak Operating System - www.collective-genius.com

Music by Andrew Applepie - https://soundcloud.com/andrewapplepie

#collectivegenius #peakoperatingsystem #peakos #vbos #innovation #venturecapital #startups #logistics #FlavorCloud #crossborder #ecommerce #supplychain #entrepreneurship #ceo #founder #rathnasharad #remotework #scalingstartup