Feeling stuck in analysis mode? This week’s #musing deep dives into five bite-sized mental models to snap you out of overthinking and into motion.

Learn how to trade perfection for progress, spot fake barriers, and turn every action into a learning loop. Momentum beats mastery, start small, move fast, and build your bias for action.

If you're a founder wondering how you can build a durable business in the era of AI - this one's for you!

This analysis from Openseed explores the probability of the AI boom being a bubble, utilising historical comparisons to the Dot Com crash and Web3 volatility to illustrate the cyclical nature of technological markets and key lessons you can take.

Not every investor “no” means the same thing. In this episode, learn the real and often unspoken reasons behind VC rejections, from dry powder issues to bias, internal politics, and off-thesis fits. Discover how to read the signals, qualify investors early, and focus your energy where a “yes” is actually possible.

Every time a founder shares a new business idea, they face three distinct personas: the skeptic, the supporter, and the silent observer.

Each one interprets the pitch differently, each one shapes its future. In this episode, we break down how to recognize these personas, decode what they really need to hear, and tailor your message to turn resistance into momentum.

Whether you are refining a pitch deck, testing a concept, or persuading early investors, you will learn the psychology behind first impressions and the conversational tactics that move ideas forward.

Thinking of raising your first angel round? Don’t hit send on that pitch deck just yet. In this episode, we break down the 10 questions every founder must answer before fundraising — from cap table traps and red flags to the narrative investors actually buy. Tactical, no-fluff guidance to help you raise like a second-time founder (even if it’s your first time).

From Capital to Catalyst: Activating Angel Investors

In this episode of The Startup Leap, we unpack Openseed VC’s view on how founders can get more than money from their angel investors.

From warm intros and GTM feedback to pitch coaching and customer access, angels can be powerful early-stage partners if activated strategically.

Learn how to make specific asks, gain honest insight, and turn early checks into real momentum.

🎧 Tune in to discover how to think beyond the check and build smarter with your angel network.

How should co-founders split equity?

We gathered insights from experienced founders who shared what they would have done differently if they could go back.

Should equity be split equally, or does it depend on factors like early risk-taking, leadership responsibility, and initial capital contributions? We explore various approaches, from equal splits fostering alignment to weighted allocations reflecting accountability and long-term commitment.

Key topics include:

✅ Why equal splits can work—but when they might not

✅ The impact of co-founder dilution versus investor dilution

✅ Why a founder vesting agreement is like a “prenup” for your startup

✅ The weight of leadership responsibility in equity allocation

✅ How to handle founder exits and cap table changes

If you're a founder, investor, or startup operator, this episode will give you a fresh perspective on structuring equity in a way that aligns incentives and sets your company up for long-term success.

🎧 Tune in now to listen---

About OpenSeed VC

This episode is powered by OpenSeed VC, a fund that writes first checks into experienced operators turned founders. OpenSeed doesn’t just invest—it provides founders with a network of seasoned operators who’ve built, scaled, and exited companies before, helping you go from zero to one.

📩 Want more guidance? OpenSeed VC offers office hours and funding opportunities.

👉 Learn more at www.openseed.vc

🎧 Subscribe & Stay Connected!

Keeping investors in the loop isn’t just a formality—it’s a key part of building trust and securing future support. In this episode, we break down how to craft effective investor updates that keep stakeholders engaged and aligned with your startup’s progress.

Key Takeaways:

- Consistency is Key – Regular updates e.g., newsletters keep investors engaged

- Simple & Clear – Focus on key metrics like customer growth, revenue, and financial health

- Be Transparent – Share both wins and challenges to build credibility

- Ask for Help – Investors can provide value beyond capital, so make specific requests

- Protect Sensitive Information – Be mindful of confidentiality while sharing progress

Tune in for a deep dive on how to create updates that strengthen investor relationships.

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About OpenSeed VC

This episode is powered by OpenSeed VC, a fund that writes first checks into experienced operators turned founders. OpenSeed doesn’t just invest—it provides founders with a network of seasoned operators who’ve built, scaled, and exited companies before, helping you go from zero to one.

📩 Want more guidance? OpenSeed VC offers office hours and funding opportunities.

👉 Learn more at www.openseed.vc

🎧 Subscribe & Stay Connected!

New episodes drop at least once a month!