I’m a huge fan of TED Talks. Here’s a very raw and deep talk by actress Thandie Newton (below, or click here). She talks about her growth as a person and search for fulfillment. In spite of a brilliant career as a dancer and actress, and a degree from Cambridge University, she suffered from an
Category: Brain hacking
Pain = Suffering x Resistance
In my venture capital job, I meet many people. Over time, some relationships develop and evolve to the point where it really isn’t just about business. For example, this past week, an exec. texted me from the office, at wits end with her job and dysfunctional company culture. I periodically sync up with one of
‘Express, Don’t Impress’
There’s a saying in sales: “Sell them what they want to buy”. In other words, hang back and see what the other party is looking for, then sell that. It’s not how I want to live. Instead, as I’ve blogged before, I want to live a life of authenticity vs. being a chameleon. I’m writing
Anne C. Mitchell: The Magic of Kindness
I’ve learned a great deal from my friend and Exec. Coach, Anne C. Mitchell. She has a unique POV. Harvard College. Former VC. A past investment is XOOM, trading at a billion dollars. Her fellow board members include people from Square, Open Table, Sequoia and NEA. Also, a mother, spouse and Coach. So, I’m totally
Family Skiing and Relationships in ‘Gridlock’
We are away skiing this MLK long weekend. It has been a milestone winter for us. For the first time, all of our children are independent and confident skiers. They can ski any trail with speed and surety. It has been a blast. No more ski schools or dividing the family into a fast group
Your Biggest Obstacle? You
I recently had a call with one of our CEOs. It was one of the best VC-and-CEO conversations I’ve ever had. I told him that I think I had identified his biggest impediment: it is he. My exec. coach has coined the phrase “The Inner Saboteur”. In other words, this is the inner voice in