Carey Ransom’s Post

Founders who can seamlessly zoom in and out are rare - and invaluable. The ability to dive deep into product details one moment, then zoom out to big-picture strategy the next, is a superpower. It’s like they have both a microscope and a telescope. It allows them to: • Connect vision to execution • Spot opportunities and connections others probably miss • Make better decisions faster • Effectively communicate at all levels As an investor, seeing a founder demonstrate this capability inspires confidence. It signals their likely ability to: • Build a team, attract, and retain top talent • Lead effectively at all stages of growth • Evolve into a strong CEO This mental flexibility is difficult to cultivate, which is why it's so rare. But those who master it have an incredible edge. I think the best founders make it look effortless. In reality, it's a skill honed through practice, great listening and self-awareness. Who are founders you know with this ability?

Feedback is a gift any way you look at it. Agree or not? I agree, especially in today's environment where we often don't share it, massage or couch our words, or are afraid to give it at all. Giving feedback shows that we care enough to do it. I'd argue it's riskier than ever to give feedback from the sender's perspective. Recognize and appreciate that. Sometimes the relationship may be new or unclear, and that may cause some confusion, but I find it rare that someone giving feedback has malicious intent. And when you receive feedback, thank them. Ask clarifying questions and encourage them to give more. An even deeper relationship might emerge.

Isabella Sun is an amazing force of nature! I was so excited to align our schedules and finally record one of our conversations. This is also why I started Operate Podcast - to let incredible people share their stories. Isabella, Sam and Short Story is one that's not received nearly enough attention or accolades. Their growth trajectory reflects a rare business, fueled by their customer obsession, data and personalization platform. This video clip is just one of many highlights. Find us on your favorite podcast app, or at a link in the comments.

Over nearly 30 years I've had several homes that I sold because I was moving to another place. I knew it was a great home, and would be worth more in another 5 or 10 years, but there wasn't a good partner to allow me to keep the home without hassles. So I sold the properties, and looked back later in frustration. I was motivated to co-found Bonus Homes because of those experiences, and the opportunity to partner with millions of homeowners like me. It's a new way to think about building wealth through a lifetime of home ownership. Hopefully we'll have an opportunity to help you earn a Bonus as well!

We started Operate nearly 5 years ago and Shafiur R. & Chatterworks was one of our first founders and projects. He epitomized our values: founders we can love, working on opportunities that excite us, and where we can be an active and valuable partner. He has navigated unprecedented changes in the way we work, teams form, employment and jobs are filled and more. I couldn't be happier with his progress and growth, and his team is growing. He's ready to hand off the product to a first and critical Product Manager. Check out the attached opportunity - please tag your entrepreneurial product friends, share with your network, or reach out to me. Thanks!

Thanks for the kind words and fun chat, Ike & Benoy!

I heard this recently: “Being stuck is just a position. Not an outcome.” It’s been a great thought to ponder, both recognizing the position, “I’m stuck,” and working through it to a different outcome. First should be to recognize it’s not the end. And then some creativity, troubleshooting and problem-solving may flow.

As we mature and gain experience, how we manage that wisdom (and possible cynicism) with child-like curiosity and confidence seems important, I think. Building experiences and tools have value, but can also create comfort and complacency. And we seem to want those things. Yet we continue to grow and learn more when we’re challenged and uncomfortable. I like to have founders and partners around me who are happy to push, inspire and encourage new thinking and productive conflict. Do you welcome people like that around you?

So awesome to see this flourish! And so grateful to Peggy Wolff & Minh Nguyen for their leadership and caretaking of this special program.