Investor Connect Podcast
Hall T Martin interviews angel and venture capital investors on how they invest and talks with CEOs who discuss their sector and what to look for. Hall T Martin also leads the Startup Funding Espresso series in which you can learn about startup funding and investing in the time it takes to have an espresso. https://investorconnect.org/
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Startup Funding Espresso – Shutting Down a Startup 2
01/23/2026
Startup Funding Espresso – Shutting Down a Startup 2
Shutting Down a Startup 2 Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing. Not all startups succeed. For those that don’t, there may come a time to shut it down. Here are some key points to consider in shutting down a startup: Before announcing the shutdown, collect all accounts receivable. Sell any inventory left on hand. Notify investors first so they are aware. Notify employees and give them their last pay date. Notify your customers of the transition to a new service or program. Liquidate all assets. Pay taxes and payroll withholding. Pay off outstanding debt as much as possible. File IRS forms related to employment tax. Close the bank account. Dispose of any remaining assets. This may include patents, trademarks, and other intellectual property, as well as physical assets. Finally, dissolve the legal entity. The shutdown process can take some time as each of the steps above requires time to complete. Consider these steps in shutting down a startup. Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding. Let’s go startup something today. _________________________________________________________ For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: Check out our other podcasts here: For Investors check out: For Startups check out: For eGuides check out: For upcoming Events, check out For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group Please , share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of .
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Investor Connect 861: Unlocking Sales Leadership Capital with Fractional Executives
01/23/2026
Investor Connect 861: Unlocking Sales Leadership Capital with Fractional Executives
In this episode of Investor Connect, Hall Martin speaks with Henning Schwinum, the co-founder and managing partner of Vendux, a company specializing in connecting businesses with fractional, interim, and full-time sales leaders. Henning shares his journey from a 25-year career in global sales and leadership roles to identifying a gap in the market for senior sales leadership in fast-growing companies that aren't ready for a full-time executive. This led to the creation of Vendux, a specialized marketplace for fractional sales leaders. Henning explains the concept of 'sales leadership capital' and the importance of investing in the talent, processes, and technology needed to build a successful sales function. He also discusses the 'perfect match system,' a proprietary technology used by Vendex to match businesses with the right sales leaders based on detailed criteria. The conversation delves into the state of fractional sales leadership, touching upon trends, compensation, and the growing acceptance of fractional roles across various industries. Henning highlights the benefits of fractional executives in de-risking go-to-market strategies for startups and scaling efforts that are often out of reach for small sales teams. The discussion includes real-world examples, emphasizing the impact of fractional sales leaders on pipeline quality, win rates, and accelerated growth. Henning also shares his insights on the evolving ecosystem supporting fractional executives, which includes agencies, marketplaces, and education platforms. As the episode wraps up, Henning offers advice for founders considering the fractional route, emphasizing the importance of finding the right match for specific problems and growth stages. He also highlights the role of the Fractional Leadership Alliance, an industry association that amplifies the voice of the fractional executive community. Visit Vendux at Reach out to at , and on _________________________________________________________ For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: Check out our other podcasts here: For Investors check out: For Startups check out: For eGuides check out: For upcoming Events, check out For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group Please , share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of .
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Startup Funding Espresso – Best Practices for Launching a Startup
01/22/2026
Startup Funding Espresso – Best Practices for Launching a Startup
Best Practices for Launching a Startup Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing. Many founders have unrealistic expectations and misguided notions about how startups work. Here’s a list of best practices to consider for launching a startup: Don’t bank on the idea alone. Startups need more than a great idea; they need execution. Launch as soon as you can. Delaying the launch means delaying customer interaction, which is the key driver in the early days. Build momentum into the business. Investors will look for momentum and traction to fund the deal. Choose painkiller solutions over vitamin solutions. Pick a problem that customers consider a painkiller, as it will be easier to sell. Generate revenue and happy users. This will give you momentum in the fundraising process. Strive for product market fit. This is a demand outstripping the supply. Consider these points in launching your startup. Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding. Let’s go startup something today. _________________________________________________________ For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: Check out our other podcasts here: For Investors check out: For Startups check out: For eGuides check out: For upcoming Events, check out For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group Please , share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of .
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Startup Funding Espresso – The Value of LTV:CAC
01/21/2026
Startup Funding Espresso – The Value of LTV:CAC
The Value of LTV:CAC Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing. The Lifetime Value to Cost of Customer Acquisition ratio is called LTV:CAC and is a useful ratio in determining the health of a startup. To calculate the Lifetime value, take the monthly revenue and divide by the churn rate. To calculate the Cost of Customer Acquisition, take the number of new customers for a month and divide by the cost of sales and marketing for that month. Compare the LTV to CAC to determine the ratio. The ratio must be at least 3:1 to prove the business viable. The higher the LTV:CAC, the higher the gross margins and profit margins. This provides a greater reinvestment rate into the business. Investors place a higher valuation on startups with higher LTV:CAC ratios. SaaS businesses often have a 5:1 LTV:CAC, which comes from the recurring revenue. SaaS businesses at the Series A level often have a 7:1 LTV:CAC. The higher the multiple, the higher the growth rate for the company. Check the LTV:CAC rate of a startup to determine its growth prospects. Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding. Let’s go startup something today. _________________________________________________________ For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: Check out our other podcasts here: For Investors check out: For Startups check out: For eGuides check out: For upcoming Events, check out For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group Please , share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of .
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Startup Funding Espresso – When To Sell Your Business
01/20/2026
Startup Funding Espresso – When To Sell Your Business
When To Sell Your Business Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing. Startup founders receive buyout offers throughout the life of the business. Even in the early days of the startup, they have the opportunity to sell the company. At each round of funding, the founder has the choice to raise more funding or sell it. Here’s a list of reasons to sell the business: The founder no longer wants to run or own the business. The business no longer appears to have a future due to changes in the market or competition. The offer is outsized in valuation due to unusual circumstances. There’s a strategic reason for selling the business that furthers the founders and investors goals. The founder should consult the investors before selling. In some cases, it may be better to shut down the business rather than sell it. Selling the business takes time and preparation to do it properly. Consider these points in deciding to sell your business. Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding. Let’s go startup something today. _________________________________________________________ For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: Check out our other podcasts here: For Investors check out: For Startups check out: For eGuides check out: For upcoming Events, check out For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group Please , share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of .
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Startup Funding Espresso – The Challenge of Regulation
01/19/2026
Startup Funding Espresso – The Challenge of Regulation
The Challenge of Regulation Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing. Regulation by the government of an industry is meant to protect customers and provide a level playing field for the companies. The downside to regulation is that it inhibits innovation. It often favors the incumbents in an industry and makes it difficult for startups to succeed. It makes market entry for new players more expensive. The existing players form advocacy groups that lobby the government for their point of view. Regulation often snuffs out competition for the existing players. It keeps costs high, which limits the number of users in the space. It prevents new innovations that the incumbents may not want to adopt since it would come at a high cost. Some industries move abroad to find acceptance for the new technology, citing the challenges in the US. In short, regulation drives the cost up and the innovation down. As an investor in startups, consider the regulatory environment before investing in a particular industry. Understand the impact of regulation on the startup's growth prospects. Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding. Let’s go startup something today. _________________________________________________________ Thank you for joining your host Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing. For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: Check out our other podcasts here: For Investors check out: For Startups check out: For eGuides check out: For upcoming Events, check out For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group Please , share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of .
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Startup Funding Espresso – How To Monitor Your Sales Forecast
01/16/2026
Startup Funding Espresso – How To Monitor Your Sales Forecast
How To Monitor Your Sales Forecast Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing. Forecasting revenue is an important skill because investors want visibility into it. To forecast better, use the Trailing Four Months model. In this model, calculate the growth rate by taking the average of the growth rate over the last four months. Use this growth rate to forecast the remainder of the year. Do the same for burn rate. Set up a spreadsheet that calculates this automatically at the end of each month. This will give you an ongoing estimate for the year. It compares sales and burn. This takes the guesswork out of forecasting and gives the investors a data-driven forecast. Knowing where the company stands is important in making decisions. Share this model with investors so they can track your progress. Monitor your sales forecast with the trailing four-month model to understand where the company stands. Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding. Let’s go startup something today. _______________________________________________________ For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: Check out our other podcasts here: For Investors check out: For Startups check out: For eGuides check out: For upcoming Events, check out For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group Please , share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of .
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Investor Connect 860: Investor Education January - Part 02
01/16/2026
Investor Connect 860: Investor Education January - Part 02
In this episode of Investor Connect, Hall T. Martin welcomes Mike Sloan, the founder and CEO of Simple Labs. Mike introduces the audience to Cogni, a ground-breaking device designed to address some of the major challenges in the wine and spirits industry, such as product loss due to evaporation and spoilage. With real-time monitoring, Cogni provides distilleries and wineries valuable insights, allowing them to better manage their product quality and significantly increase their return on investment. Mike emphasizes the importance of continuous barrel monitoring and how Cogni's integration of ML and AI technologies offers unprecedented data visibility and efficiency. Already conducting beta tests and receiving positive industry feedback, Simple Labs aims to launch in the bourbon and wine markets, with expansion plans to service a global market. With strong financials, a dedicated team, and a pipeline of potential clients, Simple Labs is poised to disrupt and innovate within this traditional sector. Tune in to learn more about Mike's journey, the technology behind Cogni, and the promising future of Simple Labs in optimizing the wine and spirits production process. _________________________________________________________ For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: Check out our other podcasts here: For Investors check out: For Startups check out: For eGuides check out: For upcoming Events, check out For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group Please , share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of .
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Startup Funding Espresso – Mistakes in Scaling the Startup
01/15/2026
Startup Funding Espresso – Mistakes in Scaling the Startup
Mistakes in Scaling the Startup Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing. The seed stage grows the business from 0 to $1M. The growth stage grows from $1M to $10M. The scaling stage grows from $10M to $100M. Here are the most common mistakes founders make at the scaling stage: They stop working on sales to focus on other areas of the business. The founder can never stop working on sales. They fail to control the burn. The burn rate must be managed throughout the life of the business. They fail to keep up with the competition. The competition will continually challenge the startup, and it must be managed. They look to hire “rock star” players. These rarely work out in the long run, as they often don’t fit the culture. Failing to keep up with the product. As the company grows, the product continues to grow so it’s important for the founder to keep up with it. Overestimating sales capacity. Founders often overestimate how much the team can manage. Reaching for the upmarket. Startups often try to move upmarket to gain a higher dollar sale per customer. Doing this at the expense of the core business is detrimental. Consider these mistakes in scaling the startup. Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding. Let’s go startup something today. _______________________________________________________ For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: Check out our other podcasts here: For Investors check out: For Startups check out: For eGuides check out: For upcoming Events, check out For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group Please , share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of .
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Startup Funding Espresso – Investors Look for Execution, Not Ideas
01/14/2026
Startup Funding Espresso – Investors Look for Execution, Not Ideas
Investors Look for Execution, Not Ideas Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing. Startup founders often believe their idea will carry the day with the investor. They propose their idea to spark interest. While that may be a good way to get attention, it will certainly not maintain it for long. Investors look for execution, not ideas. In raising funding, investors look for momentum and traction in the deal. They will look for evidence of execution in sales, team, product, and fundraising. These are the four core areas in which execution lives in a startup. Consider your efforts in those areas in crafting an update to the prospective investor. Showcase that story over a period of time, as execution occurs over time and not in a single moment. Having an idea is interesting. Understanding the customer problem and knowing the domain is helpful. Having a key insight is useful. Showing execution in a consistent manner is the winning ticket for gaining investor attention and interest. Consider these points in pursuing funding from investors. Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding. Let’s go startup something today. _______________________________________________________ For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: Check out our other podcasts here: For Investors check out: For Startups check out: For eGuides check out: For upcoming Events, check out For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group Please , share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of .
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Startup Funding Espresso – Lessons From Napoleon for the Startup
01/13/2026
Startup Funding Espresso – Lessons From Napoleon for the Startup
Lessons From Napoleon for the Startup Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing. Napoleon never ran a startup, but his life provides many lessons for the startup founder. Here are some lessons to take away from his life: Underestimating risk -- Napoleon underestimated the harshness of the Russian winter and suffered great losses. The startup should consider carefully the market to pursue before investing substantial resources. Overconfidence -- Napoleon grew overconfident from his past successes. The startup should consider each opportunity as a new way to succeed or fail. Failure to adapt -- Napoleon refused to modify his traditional plan and suffered losses for it. The startup should adapt to the market conditions and make changes to optimize the team for each stage. Failing to take timing into account -- Napoleon refused to retreat from the Russian campaign and suffered for it. The startup should ask if now is the right time to pursue a market. Overextending -- Napoleon overextended himself in attacking Russia. The startup founder should consider focusing resources on a few key priorities and not spread out over too many. Consider the fate of Napoleon and his attack on Russia as a series of lessons for your startup. Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding. Let’s go startup something today. _______________________________________________________ For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: Check out our other podcasts here: For Investors check out: For Startups check out: For eGuides check out: For upcoming Events, check out For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group Please , share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of .
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Startup Funding Espresso – Product Strategy for AI
01/12/2026
Startup Funding Espresso – Product Strategy for AI
Product Strategy for AI Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing. Artificial intelligence is a disruptive technology that promises tremendous benefits to the tech industry. Current products will be upgraded to use AI. New products will be introduced using AI from the get-go. Here’s a list of product strategies for AI: AI-based applications that use large language models called LLMs. This could be a chatbot that replaces a traditional user interface. AI-based networks that leverage AI for performance. This could be a solution that gives a more complete picture of the system. AI-based platforms that enable multiple applications using an AI engine. AI-based marketplaces that enable new features for discovery. Marketplaces are ideal for creating and capturing data, such as the most popular product in a category. Marketplaces also make matches between a buyer and seller. AI can perform more comprehensive matches and provide the buyer with help in finding the right product. AI will find its initial success in creating assistants. An assistant can guide one through a complex process, enhancing the user experience. Consider these product strategies for your startup. Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding. Let’s go startup something today. _______________________________________________________ For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: Check out our other podcasts here: For Investors check out: For Startups check out: For eGuides check out: For upcoming Events, check out For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group Please , share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of .
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Startup Funding Espresso – Learning From Mistakes
01/09/2026
Startup Funding Espresso – Learning From Mistakes
Learning From Mistakes Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing. A CEO once said, I don’t mind people making mistakes. I mind people not learning from them. It’s important to learn from mistakes. There are several ways to do this. Learn from your own mistakes. Writing down the mistakes and what you learned helps reinforce your knowledge. Learn from the mistakes of others. This is easier to do in comparison to learning from your own mistakes. There are so many other people making mistakes; there’s no shortage of lessons. Consider mistakes as learning opportunities. To learn from your mistakes, recognize what the mistake was and how it happened. What can one take from the mistake to improve in the future? Consider how to avoid the mistake. What caused it, and how can I avoid the same mistake again? Delve into the root cause of the mistake to find a deeper understanding. To do this, ask “why” five times to drill down. Once you identify the root cause, there’s a place to start work. Consider these steps in learning from mistakes. Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding. Let’s go startup something today. _________________________________________________________ For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: Check out our other podcasts here: For Investors check out: For Startups check out: For eGuides check out: For upcoming Events, check out For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group Please , share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of .
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Investor Connect 859: Investor Education January - Part 01
01/09/2026
Investor Connect 859: Investor Education January - Part 01
In this episode of Investor Connect, we welcome Kat Delgadillo and Hall Martin from Ten Capital to discuss their innovative platform connecting startups and investors. Kat and Hall introduce Ten Capital’s mission to streamline the investment process, spotlighting their robust event lineup that includes the Family Office Roundtable, Virtual Quick Pitch, and Life Science Syndicate. Ten Capital aids growth companies in securing funding by connecting them with angel groups, VC funds, high-net-worth individuals, and family offices, emphasizing the importance of building relationships between startups and investors. The discussion takes an exciting turn with the introduction of Ava, Ten Capital's new AI venture assistant designed to simplify the startup ecosystem. This advanced chatbot leverages over 500 blogs, podcasts, and tools to assist both investors and founders with personalized investment strategies and fundraising tips. Ava is accessible 24/7 on the Startup Funding Espresso platform, exemplifying the integration of cutting-edge AI technology to facilitate venture capital endeavors. The episode also features a detailed pitch by Nathan Monty of Enamel Pure, a company revolutionizing preventive dentistry with laser and AI technology. Nathan explains how their innovative device improves dental hygiene processes and integrates AI diagnostics, ensuring better patient outcomes. Enamel Pure's strategic partnerships with major distributors and planned monetization strategies highlight the company's significant growth potential. With insights from panelists and further discussions on market positioning and exit strategies, this episode offers a comprehensive look into the intersection of technology, dentistry, and investment. _______________________________________________________ For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: Check out our other podcasts here: For Investors check out: For Startups check out: For eGuides check out: For upcoming Events, check out For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group Please , share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of .
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Startup Funding Espresso – Stages of Technology Adoption
01/08/2026
Startup Funding Espresso – Stages of Technology Adoption
Stages of Technology Adoption Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing. Technology adoption goes through several stages over the life of that technology. Here are the steps of adoption: Unknown -- no one knows the technology. Awareness -- some hear about it but don’t know what it is. Understanding -- those who know it understand how it works but don’t know what to do with it. Belittlement -- those who know it consider it an underperforming technology and discard it as a toy. Usefulness -- some users find use cases for it. Repeat usage -- more users find it helpful and use it repeatedly. Designed in -- the tool becomes embedded into the workflow and is used constantly. Locked in -- the tool is something the user has no choice but to use. Regulated -- the tool becomes so prevalent that it attracts regulatory oversight. In building your product, consider these stages for marketing the technology behind your product. Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding. Let’s go startup something today. _________________________________________________________ For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: Check out our other podcasts here: For Investors check out: For Startups check out: For eGuides check out: For upcoming Events, check out For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group Please , share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of .
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Startup Funding Espresso – Acid Test for Startup Valuation
01/07/2026
Startup Funding Espresso – Acid Test for Startup Valuation
Acid Test for Startup Valuation Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing. Valuation is a key negotiating factor in startup investing. There are many valuation models available. The most common is the use of comps or comparables to see if the valuation is at market rate. Consider using the acid test for startup valuation. The acid test for startup valuation compares the money invested so far to the proposed pre-money valuation. Some call this the Money-in method. To calculate this value, take the pre-money valuation and divide by the total funding to date. Total funding includes founder funding, investor funding, and non-dilutive funding such as grants. This yields a factor. A factor in the low single digits is a conservative valuation. A factor in the double digits is a speculative one. Most investors look for a factor in the single digits to make an investment. Anything in the double digits requires more investigation to understand the value proposition of the business. Consider this metric in reviewing the valuation of a startup. Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding. Let’s go startup something today. _________________________________________________________ For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: Check out our other podcasts here: For Investors check out: For Startups check out: For eGuides check out: For upcoming Events, check out For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group Please , share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of .
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Startup Funding Espresso – Innovation Looks Trivial in the Early Days
01/06/2026
Startup Funding Espresso – Innovation Looks Trivial in the Early Days
Innovation Looks Trivial in the Early Days Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing. In the early days of a startup, innovation can look trivial. Innovation is often applied to the lower end of the market. New technologies often start as simple devices or applications. These devices have minimal functionality and lack robust features. In vetting startups, look past the minimal functionality to the rate of change of the technology. While today it may seem trivial, a fast growth rate can move it into a more competitive position. Look at the underlying growth driver. For example, semiconductors double their density every eighteen months. Genomics brings an even higher growth rate. It’s these drivers that determine the trajectory of a startup's product. Startups that leverage growth drivers are positioned to succeed over time. The incumbents often dismiss startups because their initial solution underperforms the current competition. Over time, the startup’s product will outperform. Consider this in evaluating startups for investment. Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding. Let’s go startup something today. _________________________________________________________ For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: Check out our other podcasts here: For Investors check out: For Startups check out: For eGuides check out: For upcoming Events, check out For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group Please , share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of .
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Startup Funding Espresso – Hiring a Professional CEO
01/05/2026
Startup Funding Espresso – Hiring a Professional CEO
Hiring a Professional CEO Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing. Startup founders take the CEO position because they bring the vision and passion to launch the company. They know the domain and are building the core product and go-to-market strategy. They are the ultimate authority at the company. As the company grows and then scales, there comes a time for a professional CEO. Here’s a list of key characteristics to look for in a professional CEO: One who has experience managing a large company. They’ve grown and exited companies in the past. They bring a network to the process for growing the company and finding an exit. They know how to transition the company from the founding CEO. They are good at processes and programs. They understand the product development process and can manage it in the company. Founders are often at their best in innovating and launching startups. They often do better by turning over the reins of the business to a professional CEO when the company no longer needs the founder’s skills. Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding. Let’s go startup something today. _________________________________________________________ For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: Check out our other podcasts here: For Investors check out: For Startups check out: For eGuides check out: For upcoming Events, check out For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group Please , share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of .
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Startup Funding Espresso – How Startups Can Make Better Forecasts
01/02/2026
Startup Funding Espresso – How Startups Can Make Better Forecasts
How Startups Can Make Better Forecasts Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing. Forecasting is a key skill founders need for raising funding. Investors want to know the founders' expectations for the business with the funds raised. Here are some key steps to make better forecasts: Start with a baseline. If the startup has revenue, then use that as the starting point. If the startup is pre-revenue, then look to similar startups to set a baseline. Determine the drivers behind the revenue. This could be leads generated, clients viewing a demonstration, or other. Determine how much can be done with the team proposed. Focus on the customers signed up rather than a percentage of the available market. Use the sales cycle for the product to determine lead times. The more you know about your customer buying cycles, the more accurate your forecasts. This is called a bottom-up analysis. For predicting explosive growth, look for trends in the market that can drive hyper sales growth. Look to other startups for their sales forecast to calibrate your own. Consider these points in making better forecasts. Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding. Let’s go startup something today. _______________________________________________________ For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: Check out our other podcasts here: For Investors check out: For Startups check out: For eGuides check out: For upcoming Events, check out For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group Please , share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of .
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Startup Funding Espresso – How To Build an Elevator Pitch
01/01/2026
Startup Funding Espresso – How To Build an Elevator Pitch
How To Build an Elevator Pitch Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing. The elevator pitch is the short form of your startup pitch. It introduces the deal to an investor and gives the key highlights. The goal is not to tell them everything but rather to intrigue them to learn more about it. Here’s how to build an elevator pitch: State in five words or fewer what the startup does. Show two examples of the impact of the startup using numbers. This could be exploding revenue, such as “We’re seeing 50% month over month growth.” It could have an impact on the community, such as “We help feed 5000 children a week.” State the goal of the startup, such as “We’re looking to reach a break-even in 4 months.” Choose three words that best describe your startup and work them into the pitch. Choose three phrases that best describe your startup and build them into the pitch. The keywords will help the audience understand the context. The catch phrases will help the audience understand what the startup does. Consider these steps in building your elevator pitch. Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding. Let’s go startup something today. _______________________________________________________ For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: Check out our other podcasts here: For Investors check out: For Startups check out: For eGuides check out: For upcoming Events, check out For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group Please , share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of .
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Startup Funding Espresso – The Nuances of Pitching
12/31/2025
Startup Funding Espresso – The Nuances of Pitching
The Nuances of Pitching Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing. In pitching investors, there are key nuances that can make or break the pitch. Here is a list of nuances to consider when pitching: Use the pitch to build a collaboration. Funding is a part of it, but not the only thing. Start your pitch with your core value proposition. State in plain language what your company does. If you have revenue numbers, build the pitch around them. Showcase the growth story with a graph showing a curve going up and to the right at 45 degrees. If you don’t have revenue, then build the pitch around the key insight you have into solving the problem. Don’t avoid the risk factors. Instead, focus on how you are mitigating those factors. Don’t avoid the competition. Instead, show how the competition validates the market. Show how this raise will set up the business for the next round and is a part of an overall strategy. Consider these nuances in building your pitch. Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding. Let’s go startup something today. _______________________________________________________ For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: Check out our other podcasts here: For Investors check out: For Startups check out: For eGuides check out: For upcoming Events, check out For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group Please , share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of .
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Startup Funding Espresso – Key Skills for a Startup Founder To Have
12/30/2025
Startup Funding Espresso – Key Skills for a Startup Founder To Have
Key Skills for a Startup Founder To Have Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing. Successful startup founders share several key skills. Here are the key skills for a startup founder to have: They have access to the networks that are vital to their startup success. This includes investor networks for funding and customer networks for buying the product. They are flexible. They can pivot the business when the market changes or they discover a better one. They are persistent. They stick with it during the down times as well as the up times. They take calculated risks. They understand the downside cost as well as the potential upside reward. They know their numbers. They know their key numbers that are critical, such as cash runway. They have focus. They know what the must-dos are and focus on them. They constantly learn. They are always learning new things and find it a part of the startup life. Consider these skills in a startup founder before investing. Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding. Let’s go startup something today. _______________________________________________________ For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: Check out our other podcasts here: For Investors check out: For Startups check out: For eGuides check out: For upcoming Events, check out For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group Please , share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of .
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Startup Funding Espresso – Launching a Startup in a New Domain
12/29/2025
Startup Funding Espresso – Launching a Startup in a New Domain
Launching a Startup in a New Domain Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing. Markets shift and change, creating new startup opportunities. Founders seek new markets in which to launch a startup. For those launching a startup in a new domain, here are some key steps: Read several books describing the domain and how it works. Talk to domain experts in the space to learn the details of the market. Look for unmet needs that must be addressed. Identify experts in the domain who can advise you. Ask one or two to be a mentor. Create several ideas for a business and test them out. Try dressing up the solution as a ready-to-buy product and see what reaction you get. When you find several people ready to pay for your solution, sign up three of them as anchor customers. Use the revenue from these customers to fund the initial product. Experiment with entering the market at different places in the value chain. Look for the position that provides the most revenue and costs the least for the value offered. New markets provide new opportunities to launch a business. Consider these steps for launching a startup in a new domain. Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding. Let’s go startup something today. _______________________________________________________ For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: Check out our other podcasts here: For Investors check out: For Startups check out: For eGuides check out: For upcoming Events, check out For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group Please , share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of .
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Startup Funding Espresso – Revenue Solves All Problems
12/26/2025
Startup Funding Espresso – Revenue Solves All Problems
Revenue Solves All Problems Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing. In a startup, revenue solves all problems. Funding can help, but only for so long. As long as you have cash, you can run the startup. When you run out of money, then it’s over. Revenue can fix any problem. If you need more sales support, you can hire them. If you need to fix a product, you can bring in a developer to do the job. If you need more leads, you can hire a marketer. Funding can solve many problems, but it’s limited. There’s only so much funding a founder can raise. Funding only goes so far before it runs out. Funding jump-starts the business, but revenue carries it the distance. Develop your long-term plans around revenue generation. Use funding to fill the gaps. Whatever you do, make sure you don’t run out of cash. Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding. Let’s go startup something today. _______________________________________________________ For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: Check out our other podcasts here: For Investors check out: For Startups check out: For eGuides check out: For upcoming Events, check out For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group Please , share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of .
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Startup Funding Espresso – Signs of a Good Founder
12/25/2025
Startup Funding Espresso – Signs of a Good Founder
Signs of a Good Founder Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing. Anyone can be a founder of a startup. Here are signs of a good one: They have an innovative mindset. They look for how to innovate on the product, the business model, and more. They are self-aware. They know their strengths and weaknesses. They have a vision for their business. They know where they want to go with it. They have passion. They exhibit this in their work, communication, and time spent. They are resilient. They can endure setbacks and carry on. They can plan and forecast. They know how to set plans for the company and forecast the numbers. They have good communication skills. They can communicate well both verbally and in writing. They can make decisions. They know how to decide and carry through. Look for these attributes in a founder. Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding. Let’s go startup something today. _______________________________________________________ For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: Check out our other podcasts here: For Investors check out: For Startups check out: For eGuides check out: For upcoming Events, check out For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group Please , share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of .
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Startup Funding Espresso – How To Find a Cofounder
12/24/2025
Startup Funding Espresso – How To Find a Cofounder
How To Find a Cofounder Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing. A founding team includes someone who is building it and someone who is selling it. It’s important that the startup has two founders. Here are some steps to find a cofounder for your startup. Figure out which role the founder is taking and look for a cofounder to fill the other. The key to finding and recruiting the co-founder is to show how the business will be successful. This typically starts with a customer or market ready to pay for the product to be produced. Show the key insight you have into the market and how you can use it to create a successful business. Validate with customers who are ready to buy the product and place them on a waitlist. Sign up customers who are ready to pay and provide the service manually till you have an automated solution. Gain agreement on the goals of the company for the coming three years. Negotiate compensation based on what each founder is bringing to the table. Use the negotiation process to test out the other’s skills. Go on joint sales calls to see how each performs. Work on the product development to see what progress can be made. Consider these steps in finding a cofounder. Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding. Let’s go startup something today. _______________________________________________________ For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: Check out our other podcasts here: For Investors check out: For Startups check out: For eGuides check out: For upcoming Events, check out For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group Please , share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of .
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Startup Funding Espresso – Key Attributes of a Good Angel Investor
12/23/2025
Startup Funding Espresso – Key Attributes of a Good Angel Investor
Key Attributes of a Good Angel Investor Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing. Anyone with an accredited investor status can become an angel investor. Here’s a list of key attributes of a good one: They know their industry well and how to invest in it. They know people and can size up a founder to determine if they are a fit for a successful startup. They have actually run a startup before and know what it takes to launch and build a successful one. They take an active role in the startup and help the founders along the way. They add value to the startup. They also add value to other angel investors through coaching and mentoring. They look for startups to fund and not to provide consulting. They know how to screen through a volume of deals to find the viable ones quickly. They provide quality feedback to the founder, raising funding. They know how to perform diligence and where to focus the time spent on it. They reserve funds for a follow-on round. Look for these qualities in an angel investor. Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding. Let’s go startup something today. _______________________________________________________ For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: Check out our other podcasts here: For Investors check out: For Startups check out: For eGuides check out: For upcoming Events, check out For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group Please , share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of .
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Startup Funding Espresso – How To Calculate Warrant Coverage
12/22/2025
Startup Funding Espresso – How To Calculate Warrant Coverage
How To Calculate Warrant Coverage Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing. A warrant is the right to buy a company’s stock at a specific price or range over a certain time period. The warrant acts like an option, but it issues stock, which dilutes the cap table. Founders raising funding offer warrants to incentivize investors to fund the company. Warrant coverage is the number of warrants an investor receives based on the size of their investment. It’s typically stated as a percentage such as 5% or 10%. Here’s how to calculate warrant coverage: Take the number of shares at a specific price per share as the initial investment. Take the number of shares to be provided as warrants. Divide the number of warrants by the number of shares of the initial investment to reach a warrant coverage amount. Here’s an example. The founder offers 50,000 additional shares to those who invest in 500,000 shares at $3 per share. The warrant coverage is 50,000 divided by 500,000 at $3 per share, generating a 10% warrant coverage. Consider these calculations in offering warrants in your fundraiser. Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding. Let’s go startup something today. _______________________________________________________ For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: Check out our other podcasts here: For Investors check out: For Startups check out: For eGuides check out: For upcoming Events, check out For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group Please , share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of .
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Startup Funding Espresso – The Downside of VC Funding
12/19/2025
Startup Funding Espresso – The Downside of VC Funding
The Downside of VC Funding Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing. Venture capital can enable a startup to reach the next level through funding. There are downsides to VC funding. Here’s a list: The founders' ownership goes down by 20-25% on each fundraising round. The VC model promotes growth over all other strategies. Taking VC money means taking the VC’s business model, which is to give the Limited Partner a return in 3 to 7 years. VCs will want the founders to take a minimal salary so as to apply as much capital as possible to growing the business. The VC is concerned primarily with paying back the Limited Partners in their fund. This means the VC is less likely to support initiatives that are impact-related or others that are important to the founder. Some VCs provide funding but little else, such as coaching or a network. The VC will bring their view of how to grow the business, which may not align with the founder’s vision. VCs take board seats, which come with a certain level of control. For some startups, angel money may be a better option. Consider these points before taking VC funding. Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding. Let’s go startup something today. _________________________________________________________ For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: Check out our other podcasts here: For Investors check out: For Startups check out: For eGuides check out: For upcoming Events, check out For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group Please , share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of .
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Investor Connect 858: Navigating Regulated Software and AI Integration with Darcy Bachert
12/19/2025
Investor Connect 858: Navigating Regulated Software and AI Integration with Darcy Bachert
In this episode of Investor Connect, host Hall Martin welcomes Darcy Bachert, Founder and CEO of Prolucid Technologies. Darcy shares the journey of Prolucid Technologies, a software engineering firm that specializes in designing and developing mission-critical systems for highly regulated industries such as med tech, nuclear, and industrial applications. Darcy explains how the company pivoted from industrial automation to focusing on more stable industries during the Great Recession and highlights the importance of quality, cybersecurity, and compliance in their operations. He also discusses the challenge investors face in understanding the longer timelines and higher costs associated with bringing regulated software products to market and explains the pros and cons of investing in such technologies. Hall and Darcy delve into the increasing role of AI in med tech, particularly in enhancing diagnostic processes and speeding up clinical decision-making, with Darcy mentioning Prolucid' role in transforming prototypes into production-ready systems. They also touch on the importance of advanced data analytics and ongoing monitoring in reshaping product value and post-market support. The conversation further explores the strengths and weaknesses of startups versus large strategics in the innovation landscape of regulated software products, and how choosing the right engineering partner is essential for success. Darcy offers practical advice on identifying credible partners and warning signs to watch out for, emphasizing the need for engagement and quality management systems. Visit Prolucid Technologies at Reach out to at www.linkedin.com/in/darcybachert/, darcy.bachert@prolucid.ca _______________________________________________________ For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: Check out our other podcasts here: For Investors check out: For Startups check out: For eGuides check out: For upcoming Events, check out For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group Please , share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of .
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