Founder Weekly (Issue 662 November 13 2024)

Founder Weekly - Issue 662

Founder Weekly

Welcome to issue 662 of Founder Weekly. Let's get straight to the links this week.

General

The "long tail of AI" refers to the impact of artificial intelligence on non-AI companies across various industries. This phenomenon is categorized into four layers based on AI integration: building independent models, using closed-source models, leveraging open-source models, and incorporating pre-built AI tools.

A study of 107 male Y Combinator founders found a rise in age-normalized testosterone levels from pre-seed to Series B, linked to increased confidence and dominance. However, testosterone levels dropped after Series B, as stress levels spiked, supporting theories that initial startup success boosts dominance, while later pressures reduce it.

Vinod Khosla emphasizes hiring as a pivotal factor in startup success, focusing on value creation over protection in early stages. He advocates for versatile, growth-oriented individuals who prioritize clear thinking, first principles, and adaptability over extensive experience. His guidance includes seeking a “technical athlete” over a specialized expert, valuing team-building abilities, and prioritizing the ability to take calculated risks, which he deems crucial for fostering innovation in dynamic startup environments.

The "simple" to "WTF" scale of product complexity.

Seven frameworks for AI-enabled vertical SaaS.

Marketing, Sales and PR

Proven frameworks from working with 350+ startups.

Implications Of Agent Pricing.

Money and Finance

See the latest pre-seed data on deal sizes, management fees, valuation caps, a breakdown of SAFEs compared to convertible notes, and a map of the states where the most pre-seed activity takes place. 

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