Fresh Perspectives from Stellenbosch

1. Welcome

Dear Reader,

Welcome to The Startup VC Insider — your trusted source for bridging the gap between entrepreneurs and investors. We’re here to connect, inspire, and explore big ideas to fuel your journey. Let’s dive in!

2. Weekly Spotlight

Personal Branding: What’s Your Why? Last week’s poll revealed personal branding as a top priority. After nine years of honing this skill, I’m ready to share what works—honestly, no quick fixes. But first, why does it matter to you? LinkedIn Poll.

3. VC Perspective

Avatars Are Here to Stay: $2 Billion Says So Synthesia’s $2 billion valuation highlights how realistic AI avatars are reshaping industries—teaching kids and taking jobs. Are we ready for this leap? Join the discussion.

Spotify + Sonos: Perfect or Problematic? Could Spotify’s acquisition fix Sonos’ struggles? Or does it risk creating a monopoly? The angry debate about Sonos rages on - contribute here and read about the potential acquisition here.

VCs Say No? Do It Anyway Great businesses aren’t always ‘VCable'.’ Build your vision, prove them wrong, and become your own investor. Explore the mindset in this video.

Barriers to Entry: Protect Your Lunch Why do investors obsess about barriers to entry? Because a great idea attracts competition. In 2011, I built a business by taking someone’s lunch. It wasn’t personal—just business. Protect your edge, or someone else will. Join the conversation.

4. Entrepreneur Corner

British Airways: A Lesson in Leadership From a gold standard to customer nightmare, BA’s fall shows why you can’t cost-cut your way to greatness. Read the full critique.

MBA or AI: Which Wins? With a $500k cost, is a Harvard MBA worth it? Or has AI made it obsolete? Share your opinion. Did it help with a career switch in the past anyway? Watch this video to find out.

Big Impact, Small Beginnings: Small actions create big ripples. Be inspired.

“If you think you are too small to make a difference, try sleeping with a mosquito.” Dalai Lama XIV

5. Common Ground / Industry Trends

TikTok’s Survival: A Win for Entrepreneurs The platform narrowly avoided a US ban, saving millions of livelihoods and highlighting the need for diverse income streams. Learn the backstory and click here to read how Trump temporarily saved the day.

6. Ask Alex

This Week’s Question: Why do creators LOVE Chinese apps like TikTok?

Because they’re meritocracies. You can have five followers and still reach millions. Platforms like TikTok and LinkedIn focus on quality and engagement, not follower count. Read more.

Ask me your questions.

7. Closing Thoughts

Thanks for reading and supporting The Startup VC Insider. Let’s continue reaching new heights together.

Even while on holiday in Stellenbosch surrounded by beautiful mountains (cover pic!), I find immense joy in sharing insights with this incredible community. Your engagement keeps me inspired, no matter where I am!

Best,

Alex

P.S. If you missed it, last week’s discussion on taxing UK wealth like Spain sparked over 200 comments. Join the debate here: LinkedIn Post.

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