Scott Garber of Early Light Ventures on Founder Interviewing via CIA techniques, Pre Seed Portfolio Construction, and Farting in Jars

The Capital Stack

In this episode, David Paul interviews Scott Garber, Managing Director of Early Light Ventures. Scott shares his background as a former CIA operative and how he transitioned into venture capital. He discusses his investment strategy, including the importance of reading founders and identifying grit. Scott also talks about the portfolio construction and his focus on smaller exits with lower failure rates. He reflects on his beliefs that have changed over time and shares his excitement for the future. You can watch/listen to the podcast on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple.

Takeaways

• Scott shares his background as a former CIA operative and how it has influenced his venture capital career.
• Reading founders and identifying grit are important factors in Scott's investment strategy.
• Scott focuses on smaller exits with lower failure rates in his portfolio construction.
• Scott's beliefs about valuations have evolved, and he now considers quality as an important factor in investment decisions.
• Scott is excited about the sales prospects for startups in the first half of 2024.

Chapters

03:57 - Transition to Venture Capital

05:30 - Recruitment into the CIA

07:19 - Transferable Skills from CIA to Venture Capital

09:48 - Investment Strategy and Reading Founders

13:16 - Early Light Ventures and Investment Thesis

15:29 - Transition from Board Seats

17:52 - Portfolio Construction and Miss Rates

20:49 - Beliefs that Have Changed

24:24 - Excitement for 2024

27:17 - Conclusion and Contact Information