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1797: How Entrepreneurs Can Think Like Venture Capitalists by Mike Smerklo on Long-Term Value Creation

Author
Optimal Living Daily | Dan W.
Published
Mon 01 Sep 2025
Episode Link
None

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Episode 1797:

Mike Smerklo explains how entrepreneurs can strengthen their decision-making by adopting a venture capitalist’s perspective. By focusing on risk assessment, portfolio thinking, and long-term value creation, founders can make more strategic choices that increase resilience and growth potential.

Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.mikesmerklo.com/how-entrepreneurs-can-think-like-venture-capitalists/

Quotes to ponder:

"VCs have to be able to assess risk and reward with incomplete information, and make bets accordingly."

"Think of your entrepreneurial career as a portfolio, some bets will pay off, others won’t."

"The key is to keep playing, keep learning, and keep making smart, calculated bets."

Episode references:

The Lean Startup: https://www.amazon.com/Lean-Startup-Entrepreneurs-Continuous-Innovation/dp/0307887898

Zero to One: https://www.amazon.com/Zero-One-Notes-Startups-Future/dp/0804139296

Venture Deals: https://www.amazon.com/Venture-Deals-Smarter-Lawyer-Capitalist/dp/1119594820
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