Entrepreneurial Thought Leaders

The DFJ Entrepreneurial Thought Leaders Seminar (ETL) is a weekly seminar series on entrepreneurship, co-sponsored by BASES (a student entrepreneurship group), Stanford Technology Ventures Program, and the Department of Management Science and Engineering.

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Episodes

Secrets at Apple's Core - Adam Lashinsky (Author)
5/23/2012
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Duration: 58:06

Fortune senior editor Adam Lashinsky shares an insider look at Apple, one of the world's most iconic and secretive companies. Based on his research into the technology giant's internal processes and approaches to leadership and building products, Lashinsky offers insights and surprises from his book, Inside Apple: How America's Most Admired--and Secretive--Company Really Works.
A Playlist for Entrepreneurs - Daniel Ek, Chi-Hua Chien (Spotify)
5/16/2012
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Duration: 01:00:43

Daniel Ek, founder of digital music service, Spotify, is driven by a desire to solve interesting problems. In this fascinating lecture, moderated by KPCB's Chi-Hua Chien, Ek shares his thoughts on leadership, collaboration, and a laser-focus on building truly great products.
A Story of Change and Opportunity - Brian Murray, Tina Seelig (HarperCollins)
5/9/2012
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Duration: 59:06

HarperCollins President and CEO Brian Murray discusses the shifting economics of publishing and how his company, which launches 12 new products per day, is working to succeed in this disruptive period. In conversation with STVP Executive Director Dr. Tina Seelig, Murray also talks about issues of digital rights management, his company's willingness to explore new business models, and how HarperCollins manages relationships with other major players in the space.
Small Acts and Big Impacts - Rebeca Hwang, Elizabeth Samara-Rubio (YouNoodle, StorWatts)
5/2/2012
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Duration: 56:41

This special lecture offers insights from two leaders creating impact through entrepreneurship. Founder Elizabeth Samara-Rubio explains how her company, StorWatts, aims to provide distributed energy storage to millions around the world, while YouNoodle entrepreneur Rebeca Hwang tells stories of her early field experiences which formed her passion for social entrepreneurship.
Producing a Career from the Ground Up - Gale Anne Hurd (Valhalla Entertainment)
4/18/2012
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Duration: 57:01

Acclaimed film and television producer Gale Anne Hurd knows what it takes to build a career from scratch in a tough industry. Hurd describes her path from entry-level roles in the entertainment industry to becoming a leader in the Hollywood community, based on taking chances, making yourself indispensable and staying committed to what you love.
The Wave of Social Entrepreneurship - Jeff Church (Nika Water)
4/11/2012
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Duration: 55:07

Entrepreneur and successful executive Jeff Church founded Nika Water to create a thriving social enterprise that supports clean water projects in impoverished countries. In this inspiring lecture, Church lays out his motivations for striking out on his own, the challenges of the global water crisis and the essential lessons aspiring entrepreneurs need to learn.
Two Generations of Entrepreneurship - Sandra Kurtzig, Andy Kurtzig (Kenandy, JustAnswer)
3/7/2012
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Duration: 48:44

In this special lecture, mother and son serial entrepreneurs Sandra and Andy Kurtzig share smart reasons for starting companies that matter. Sandra Kurtzig outlines similarities and differences between her previous ventures and her current company, Kenandy. Andy Kurtzig discusses his company, JustAnswer, and key lessons for entrepreneurs.
Energies that Power a Career - Kristina Johnson, Tina Seelig (Enduring Energy)
2/29/2012
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Duration: 01:00:25

Former U.S. Undersecretary of Energy Kristina Johnson discusses the empowering experiences of her life and career in academia, government and private industry. In a conversation with STVP's Tina Seelig, Johnson identifies the strengths of each of these areas to affect change and innovation, and offers lessons in leading a life that can capitalize on new opportunities.
Live Life in Permanent Beta - Reid Hoffman (LinkedIn)
2/22/2012
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Duration: 01:01:00

Serial entrepreneur and investor Reid Hoffman encourages individuals to become the entrepreneurs of their own lives. Hoffman shares the importance of taking intelligent risks, building thoughtful networks and continually adapting your skills to navigate a fulfilling career path.
Find Your Vector of Impact - Sukhinder Singh Cassidy (JOYUS)
2/15/2012
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Duration: 01:02:29

JOYUS Founder and Chairman Sukhinder Singh Cassidy says entrepreneurs should leverage trademark strengths and lean in all the way when it's time to deliver. In this lecture, Singh Cassidy explores concepts such as defining operational range, using data to support gut beliefs, and developing the big ideas teams and customers can rally around.
Embrace Uncertainty - Warren Packard (Thuuz)
2/8/2012
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Duration: 58:53

Thuuz Co-Founder and CEO Warren Packard appreciates how uncertainty is a constant force in the lives of entrepreneurs. Sharing stories from his career as an entrepreneur and venture capitalist, Packard captures how life is a series of decisions made without complete information. He also addresses how his current venture approaches issues of funding and strategic partnerships.
Building an Entrepreneurial Career - Ted Zoller (Kauffman Foundation)
2/1/2012
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Duration: 58:15

Kauffman Foundation Senior Fellow Ted Zoller challenges Stanford students to engage in entrepreneurship as a practice of action. Based on his research into dealmaker density and network development, Zoller details the power of seizing opportunities and the pathways to developing an entrepreneurial career.
Tools for Business Model Generation - Alexander Osterwalder, Steve Blank (Author)
1/25/2012
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Duration: 54:28

Entrepreneur and business model innovator Alexander Osterwalder discusses dynamic, yet simple-to-use tools for visualizing, challenging and re-inventing business models. Osterwalder articulates how to use the visual language of his business model canvas framework, and shares stories of how this approach helps organizations of all sizes to better create, deliver and capture value.
Talking About a Revolution - Deborah Hopkins (Citi)
1/18/2012
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Duration: 50:56

Citi Chief Innovation Officer Deborah Hopkins believes now is an incredible time for new companies due to the pace of cultural and technological change. As the head of Citi Ventures, Hopkins leads the banking firm's efforts to invest in companies delivering disruptive technology products. Hopkins shares rules for revolutionary entrepreneurs and describes how Citi's initiatives are shaped by empathy for customers and a commitment to sharing new ideas.
A Startup is a Learning Experience - Jessica Mah (inDinero)
11/30/2011
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Duration: 59:43

InDinero Founder Jessica Mah discusses the realities of the startup experience, in conversation with STVP faculty member and entrepreneur Steve Blank. Sharing the early successes and missteps for her company, Mah honestly reveals the lessons she continues to learn while directing inDinero's path to success through its commitment to customers.
Understanding Venture Capital - Dana Mead (KPCB )
11/16/2011
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Duration: 01:00:36

As a partner at Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers, Dana Mead supports entrepreneurs and innovators seeking to make major impact through life science technologies and ventures. In this lecture, Mead talks about Venture Capital, offering great insights about Silicon Valley and life as a venture capitalist.
Method to Success - Adam Lowry (Method)
11/9/2011
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Duration: 01:02:22

Adam Lowry, co-founder of Method Products, has spent the last decade developing sustainable products that caused major disruption in the consumer goods sector. Lowry offers many of principles that guide Method's path to success and he describes the different obsessions the company keeps to deliver on its promises to customers.
Believe In Something Bigger Than Yourself - Marten Mickos (Eucalyptus)
11/2/2011
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Duration: 59:11

In this lecture, Mårten Mickos shares the benefits and challenges involved in building businesses in the open source and cloud computing spaces. As the CEO of Eucalyptus Systems, Mickos identifies a vision for the future of his industry and shares entrepreneurial lessons gained from leading MySQL AB from its startup origins to becoming one of the largest open source companies in the world.
Products With a Purpose - Scott Summit (Bespoke)
10/26/2011
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Duration: 58:05

As the Co-Founder and CTO of Bespoke Innovations, Scott Summit leads a continuing effort to create products that radically change lives. In this lecture, Summit shares insights from creating customized prosthetic devices using new technologies in nascent markets. He also discusses some of challenges his company faced in discovering a working business model and developing customers.
Great Entrepreneurs Go Out and Do - Brad Feld (Foundry Group)
10/19/2011
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Duration: 01:01:18

Entrepreneur and early-stage investor Brad Feld offers advice and support to aspiring entrepreneurs. Feld, a managing partner at Foundry Group and a co-founder of TechStars, imparts personal experiences on managing your life as an entrepreneur. He also shares some of the defining characteristics his firm looks for in the entrepreneurs they invest in.
No Exit Strategy for Your Life's Work - Phil Libin (Evernote)
10/12/2011
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Duration: 01:05:05

Thoughts and influences from early life continue to shape how Evernote CEO Phil Libin embraces his work. In this wide-ranging presentation, Libin shares key beliefs and provocative insights on startups, acquisitions and company exits. Based on his experiences leading multiple ventures from startup to commercial success, Libin urges entrepreneurs to chase dreams they would actually want to spend their life pursuing.
Entrepreneurship Gives Life Meaning - David Friedberg (The Climate Corporation)
10/5/2011
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Duration: 01:01:12

David Friedberg, CEO of The Climate Corporation (formerly WeatherBill), discusses the startup process and the challenges faced during the development of his innovative technology company that is changing the insurance sector. Friedberg explores essential components in the entrepreneurial experience, including the need to solve real problems, making meaningful impact, and the value of embracing the grind required in reaching success.
Innovate for America - Aneesh Chopra (US Office of Science & Tech)
5/25/2011
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Duration: 01:00:27

As America's first Chief Technology Officer, Aneesh Chopra focuses on advancing technology and innovation to unlock national economic growth and prosperity. In this inspiring and entertaining lecture, Chopra challenges students and entrepreneurs to take action now to bring innovation to the healthcare, education and government sectors. He also discusses leveraging government's vast open data resources, championing new ideas on immigration policy as it relates to innovation, and supporting American entrepreneurship programs.
The Value of True Partnerships - Wences Casares, Meyer Malka (Bling Nation)
5/18/2011
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Duration: 59:20

Wences Casares and Meyer "Micky" Malka are serial entrepreneurs who believe in the fundamental power of partnerships. Empowered by working in close collaboration for years, these co-founders have started multiple companies including Patagon, Lemon Bank and Bling Nation. In this revealing lecture, Casares and Malka describe the value of over-communication, the decision process in making a pivot, and the challenges of entrepreneurial ecosystems outside the United States.
From Stanford to Startup - Kevin Systrom, Mike Krieger (Instagram)
5/11/2011
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Duration: 56:30

Instagram Co-Founders Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger challenge many of the myths surrounding startups and the lives of entrepreneurs. Both former Mayfield Fellows with the Stanford Technology Ventures Program, Systrom and Krieger share their first-hand experiences of the entrepreneurial process, including identifying good problems to solve and the value in building simple solutions and minimum viable products. Systrom and Krieger also discuss aspects of their co-founder working relationship and their efforts to maintain a balance between work and life.
Reach Your Escape Velocity - Geoffrey Moore (MDV)
5/4/2011
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Duration: 58:08

In this high-energy lecture, Geoffrey Moore discusses how companies can build the escape velocity necessary to move beyond the successes and failures of the past. Moore argues that when companies focus too much on performance, they miss out on building the power to become the industry leaders that other companies envy. He shares a hierarchy model through which companies can examine and build power, and examines how product teams can best work to differentiate their company, neutralize the competition, and optimize products and offers.
Developing Products that Save Lives - Richard Scheller (Genentech)
4/27/2011
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Duration: 01:00:29

As Genentech's Executive Vice President of Research and Early Development, Richard Scheller leads scientists discovering medicines that will significantly impact the lives of patients. In this candid interview, he describes the challenges of his industry, and outlines the required steps for developing products in a heavily regulated environment. Scheller also shares some personal learning curves faced when he elected to leave academic life for a new role in a commercial enterprise.
How to Build Instant Connections - Ori Brafman (Author)
4/20/2011
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Duration: 55:38

In this illuminating lecture, bestselling author Ori Brafman explores subtle drivers that can help you spark immediate work, life, and romantic connections. Based on insights from his latest book, Click: The Magic of Instant Connections, Brafman teaches leaders and aspiring entrepreneurs how to make every chance meeting count, using examples from the workplace, collegiate life, and the battlefield.
A New Vision for Capital Markets - Barry Silbert (SecondMarket)
4/13/2011
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Duration: 54:13

SecondMarket Founder and CEO Barry Silbert thinks his online marketplace for trading alternative assets can play an important role in creating a new model for capital markets. In this lecture, Silbert explains his personal path into entrepreneurship and describes the current growth of his firm, which has drawn attention for trading private stock in companies such as Facebook and Twitter. Silbert also offers reasons for why he thinks current public markets are broken and his vision of a new way forward.
Effective Models for Sustainable Growth - Jennifer Morris (Conservation International)
4/6/2011
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Duration: 53:22

In this informative lecture, Conservation International Executive Vice President Jennifer Morris shares her organization's commitment to creating programs to support sustainable development. Morris articulates the importance of developing innovative financing and business models to address ecosystem services and resource management issues. She also describes the entrepreneurial initiatives her organization has built to sustain partnerships between corporate partners and local communities around the globe.
Creating Enchantment - Guy Kawasaki (Author)
3/2/2011
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Duration: 01:02:57

Entrepreneur and bestselling author Guy Kawasaki shares the secrets to being enchanting and developing influence through the "pillars of enchantment." In this funny and engaging lecture, Kawasaki examines the deep value in being likable, creating trust, and taking empowering action. He also shares keys to telling a great story, overcoming resistance, and enchanting your boss and colleagues.
A Devotion to New Ideas - Bill Gross (eSolar & Idealab)
2/23/2011
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Duration: 56:44

Bill Gross thrives on turning innovative ideas into pioneering companies. He serves as founder and CEO of Idealab, which started over 75 companies since 1996. In this stimulating lecture, he shares how Idealab continues to bring incredible ideas to market, and his personal insights on starting and running successful organizations. Gross also describes the work of eSolar, a spin-off company of Idealab that works to make solar energy cost-competitive in the global marketplace.
Live for the Future and Survive Success - Mark Forchette (OptiMedica)
2/16/2011
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Duration: 57:59

As CEO of OptiMedica, Mark Forchette guides the company's continuing efforts to successfully deliver innovative medical technologies to market. In this lecture, he shares entrepreneurial lessons learned throughout his career, and discusses the importance of setting objectives and executing tactical plans. Forchette also touches upon the value of thorough preparation and overcoming early failures.
The Power of Curiosity and Inspiration - Jack Dorsey (Square)
2/9/2011
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Duration: 01:00:14

Square and Twitter Co-Founder Jack Dorsey is an entrepreneur driven by an innate curiosity to create amazing products and services. In this insightful lecture, Dorsey describes his early background and inspirations, the current focuses he keeps as a CEO, and his desire to create memorable experiences and solve problems.
Relentless Pursuit of Innovation - Susan Desmond-Hellmann (UCSF)
2/2/2011
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Duration: 56:45

UCSF Chancellor Susan Desmond-Hellmann has a track record of fostering environments conducive to innovation, in both the public and private sector. In this engaging lecture, the renowned oncologist shares insights from her career in biotechnology and academia on leading teams, managing risks against rewards, and innovative product development. Desmond-Hellmann also shares her belief as to why entrepreneurs must remain relentless when it comes to pursuing their goals.
Following Your Startup Vision - Brent Constantz (Calera)
1/26/2011
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Duration: 01:00:03

Calera founder Brent Constantz is an innovator who believes that successful entrepreneurs are the ones who follow through on their original vision. Drawing upon his deep background as a successful serial entrepreneur, Constantz shares his entrepreneurial experiences and discusses many of the competitive and strategic issues facing his current ventures.
Delivering Innovation for the Enterprise - Aaron Levie (Box.net)
1/19/2011
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Duration: 59:37

Box.net CEO Aaron Levie is an entrepreneur who seeks to reinvent how enterprise businesses share content across their organizations. In 2005, Levie saw the need for affordable storage on the Internet, and co-founded Box.net out of his college dorm room. In this high-energy lecture, Levie shares the successes and challenges of his company's move from early-stage startup to scalable cloud technology venture.
Social Entrepreneurship Changing Education - Wendy Kopp (Teach for America)
1/12/2011
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Duration: 01:00:39

Wendy Kopp, Teach For America's CEO and founder, is driven to end educational inequity across the nation. In this seminar, Kopp shares her entrepreneurial story of starting Teach For America straight out of college, and articulates the sense of urgency that she and her organization still feel for producing fundamental changes to education in America.
How Ideas Take Flight - Jennifer Aaker (Stanford GSB)
11/17/2010
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Duration: 59:26

Stanford Graduate School of Business professor Jennifer Aaker shares the power behind creating ideas that can build momentum. Through her research on the perception of happiness and meaning, Aaker describes how these concepts relate to a successful and powerful social media campaign. A well-planned effort catches audience attention and offers them an engaging story. Aaker, co-author of The Dragonfly Effect, also offers several personal and corporate examples of effective viral campaigns that garnered real world, and even life-saving, results.
What Great Leaders Do - Bob Sutton (Stanford)
11/10/2010
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Duration: 59:02

In this lecture that parallels his book Good Boss, Bad Boss, Stanford professor Bob Sutton unpacks the best habits of beloved and effective managers, and details the worst habits of those who fail to lead. The best leaders develop and nurture those who work for them. However, when bosses gain more power, they can easily grow oblivious to the needs of those they lead.
Customer Focus Builds Global Growth - Diego Piacentini (Amazon)
11/3/2010
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Duration: 57:01

Diego Piacentini, Senior VP of International Retail for Amazon, discusses the company's growth-centered business model, its global presence, and the strides it takes to sustain a successful customer experience. Piacentini also describes Amazon's innovative approaches to operations, mergers and acquisitions, and labor practices.
Funding Thunder Lizard Entrepreneurs - Ann Miura-Ko (Floodgate Fund)
10/27/2010
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Duration: 58:21

Stanford Engineering lecturer and FLOODGATE partner Ann Miura-Ko offers insight into the democratization of innovation in the Internet age, and its affect on investment cycles. Additionally, Miura-Ko speaks candidly about the need to test business models, her firm's desire to be an advocate for "thunder lizard" entrepreneurs, and the challenges of achieving true work/life balance.
Leadership and Disruptive Technologies - Thomas Prescott (Align Technology)
10/20/2010
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Duration: 58:04

Thomas Prescott, CEO of medical device manufacturer Align Technology, discusses disruptive product innovation and leadership in the medical device industry. Prescott shares the company's story, including insights on the launch of their signature product, the Invisalign orthodontic system. He also discusses operational trends and the need for sound analysis of financing, product execution, and business development tactics.
Honest Advice on Starting a Company - Mark Suster (Serial Entrepreneur)
10/13/2010
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Duration: 57:56

Entrepreneurship is an emotional and economic roller coaster, says venture capitalist and serial entrepreneur Mark Suster. In this candid and informative lecture, Suster defies some of Silicon Valley's conventional wisdom. Based on his extensive experience with multiple companies, Suster shares his thoughts on the real day-to-day life of startups, smart ways to raise the right kind of funds, and offers honest advice in making your way as an entrepreneur.
Solving Problems Makes a Great Business - Chi-Hua Chien, Dan Rosensweig (KPCB, Chegg)
10/6/2010
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Duration: 01:01:13

In conversation with KPCB's Chi-Hua Chien, Dan Rosensweig, CEO of textbook rental company Chegg, speaks about his professional history within Yahoo!, ZDNet, and Guitar Hero, and shares insights on business in the dot-com trenches. Rosensweig offers his perspective on the evolution of the online media and advertising industries. Additionally, Rosensweig encourages entrepreneurs-to-be to "bet on the inevitable" as they explore their passions and the growing future of online services.
Entrepreneurial Lessons: Find Value and Make Impact - Amit Chatterjee (Hara)
9/29/2010
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Duration: 53:27

Amit Chatterjee, founder and CEO of Hara, the growing energy management solutions company, shares the wisdom of his entrepreneurial experience. He covers an array of topics vital to launching and running a successful enterprise, including the importance of product innovation, new market development, thriving in a competitive landscape, and the critical importance of building a brilliant team.
Chile: Launching a Global Entrepreneurship Hub - Juan Andrés Fontaine (Chilean Government)
9/22/2010
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Duration: 57:14

Juan Andrés Fontaine, Chile's Minister of Economy, Development and Tourism, discusses his government's recent practices and programs that strive to develop Chile's entrepreneurial ecosystem. Topics touched upon include government incentive programs to attract international investment, growth and development to Chile's university research and development, and a desire to build the nation into the innovation hub of South America.
The Diplomacy of Technology - Alec Ross (Advisor to US Secretary of State)
5/26/2010
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Duration: 54:33

Alec Ross, Senior Advisor for Innovation in the Office of Secretary of State and Co-founder of global non-profit One Economy, discusses in detail innovation policy and how it can change national diplomacy. In addition, Ross offers advice to global innovators, stressing quality time management, effective hiring practices, the mutual benefits of mentoring, and assertive risk practices.
The Perfect Storm in MedTech - Josh Makower (ExploraMed)
5/19/2010
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Duration: 01:00:34

Josh Makower, CEO of ExploraMed, speaks briefly about his experience working in medicine and technology. Dr. Makower also discusses at length the numerous political, financial, and regulatory hurdles against future medical innovation, and calls for audience involvement in the tangled web of healthcare, patents, and insurance reimbursement.
A Panorama of Venture Capital and Beyond - Marc Andreessen (Serial Entrpreneur)
5/12/2010
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Duration: 01:01:43

Serial entrepreneur Marc Andreessen offers the Stanford audience a rare opportunity to pose open questions. Topics addressed include everything from the state of VC and the stock market, to Facebook's market dominance, to the rebirth of consumer electronics. In addition, Andreessen offers ground rules for the start-up, including tips on attracting top talent.
Investing for Market Strategy and Capital - Lisa Lambert (Intel Capital)
5/5/2010
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Duration: 56:34

Lisa Lambert, Vice President at Intel Capital, speaks at length on the experience of working for a mammoth, corporate-backed strategic venture capital firm. She unpacks the challenges of the post-recession VC world, and speaks at length about the industry at large. In addition, Lambert discusses critical issues of work/life balance and the conundrum of personal choices faced when climbing the corporate ladder.
A Pandora's Box of Start-up Expertise - Tom Conrad (Pandora)
4/28/2010
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Duration: 01:00:57

After nearly two decades in the trenches of Pets.com, Apple Computer, and the You Don't Know Jack game series at Berkeley Systems, Tom Conrad (Pandora CTO) shares his acquired wisdom on succeeding in the consumer internet space. He discusses agility, crisp decision making, and focus, and peppers his lessons with numerous entertaining anecdotes of dot-com days and corporate progress.
The Ebb and Flow of Clean Tech and Entrepreneurs - Carlos Perea (Miox)
4/21/2010
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Duration: 58:15

Twenty percent of the world's population do not have access to clean drinking water, says Miox CEO Carlos Perea. What's an entrepreneur to do? Ideally, find a way to clean and reuse the global water supply that's, "twice as good at half the cost" of conventional chlorine decontamination. In this lecture, Perea demonstrates his company's abilities and explains the benefits and challenges of being an entrepreneur in clean technology.
Collaborative Innovation and a Pull Economy - John Seely Brown (Deloitte Center for Edge Innovation)
4/14/2010
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Duration: 55:59

What can extreme surfing and World of Warcraft teach the enterprise? Independent Co-Chairman of the Deloitte Center for the Edge and former Xerox PARC Chief Scientist John Seely Brown holds them as examples of the power of frequent benchmarking and full industry info-share. He also uses them to show how the core ecosystem can be made stronger by sharing knowledge gathered from learning on the edge. In addition, Seely Brown touches upon his theory of a monumental economic shift from a push to a pull economy as outlaid in his 2010 book, The Power of Pull: How Small Moves, Smartly Made, Can Set Big Things in Motion.
Getting to Plan B - Randy Komisar (KPCB)
4/7/2010
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Duration: 01:01:23

While Plan A may begin the backbone on which an entrepreneurial idea is hinged, succinct data gathering and constant market evaluation more often lead to profit with the next idea in line. The tech sector breeds innovation, says KPCB partner and frequent speaker Randy Komisar, and to do so it is required to accept the numerous fits and starts of the start-up.
Success and Failure Drive Innovation - Polly Sumner, Liz Tinkham (Salesforce & Accenture)
3/3/2010
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Duration: 56:49

Accenture's Liz Tinkham interviews salesforce.com's Polly Sumner about entrepreneurship that occurs in both large and small companies. They both agree that innovation and risk-taking occur in any-sized company where the culture emphasizes "no idea is a dumb idea." Sumner advises young entrepreneurs to not fear risk: every failure teaches you a valuable lesson, and once learned, success is that much sweeter.
People, Passion, Perseverance: You've Got Entrepreneurship - Steve Case (Revolution & AOL)
2/24/2010
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Duration: 53:08

People, passion, perseverance. Former AOL CEO and Chairman Steve Case describes these words as the bedrock of successful entrepreneurship. Heading into what may be a "golden era of entrepreneurship," he says that he relies on the "three p's" as assessment tools to help guide his direction and goals. When all of the three parts are in balance, an entrepreneur can achieve success like that of AOL; when they aren't, you get the failure of the AOL-Time Warner merger.
Sharing a Measure of Success - Rashmi Sinha, Jonathan Boutelle (SlideShare)
2/17/2010
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Duration: 57:22

Jonathan Boutelle and Rashmi Sinha, founders of the presentation-sharing site SlideShare, describe the entrepreneurial process as a series of pivots. Boutelle explains it's not just a jump, but an evolving growth of stages that leads to an idea that can start a business. From there, Sinha says that focused execution keeps the vision moving forward. By continually measuring the activity, they both believe that entrepreneurs can better recognize the growth stages of their company.
Panel of Young Entrepreneurs - Steve Garrity, Clara Shih, Kimber Lockhart, Jeff Seibert, Josh Reeves, Tristan Harris (Panel of Young Entrepreneurs)
2/10/2010
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Duration: 59:59

Six young Stanford grads and entrepreneurs -- Steven Garrity, Clara Shih, Kimber Lockhart, Jeff Seibert, Josh Reeves, and Tristan Harris -- share their experiences starting companies and raising capital. While being in their 20s may seem to be an obstacle to outsiders, they said they "flipped" this liability into an asset -- focusing instead on their raw ability to bring innovative ideas to life. They advise all young entrepreneurs to be persistent, opportunistic, and scrappy.
Entrepreneurial Journeys in Healthcare - William Hagstrom (Crescendo Bioscience)
2/3/2010
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Duration: 57:30

It's not just your strengths as a leader, it's your passion, says William Hagstrom, CEO of Crescendo Bioscence, in South San Francisco, CA. He strongly advises future entrepreneurs to think of your business as a worthy crusade. Giving example with his own career, he urges those starting a company to architect their venture deeply, form a culture of excellence, and think about risk early. The culmination of his experience has redefined the role of CEO for him as way to empower others.
Risky Business: Analysis from an Engineering Perspective - Elisabeth Paté-Cornell (Stanford University)
1/27/2010
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Duration: 59:19

Don't set sail without thinking first: this sage advice sums up risk analysis for Elisabeth Paté-Cornell, department chair of Management Science and Engineering at Stanford University. She explains that risk assessment involves the study of scenarios, probabilities, and consequences. A risk analyst uses logic and statistics to makes sense of uncertainties and provides possible solutions to derail disaster. While some events force quick thinking, most can be avoided with a little forethought. After all, she simplifies: risk analysis isn't just nuclear reactors, it's also real life.
Unlearn Your MBA - David Heinemeier Hansson (37signals)
1/20/2010
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Duration: 59:39

David Heineimeier Hansson, the creator of Ruby on Rails and partner at 37signals in Chicago, says that planning is guessing, and for a start-up, the focus must be on today and not on tomorrow. He argues that constraints--fiscal, temporal, or otherwise--drive innovation and effective problem-solving. The most important thing, Hansson believes, is to make a dent in the universe with your company.
Evolution of a CEO - John Adler, Trip Adler (Accuray & Scribd)
1/13/2010
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Duration: 01:00:17

Dr. John Adler, Jr. and John "Trip" Adler III discuss their entrepreneurial experience and evolution as a business leader: For Dr. Adler, he describes his bumpy course in developing his biotechnology company, Accuray Incorporated; for his son Trip, he emphasizes the persistence and luck in developing Scribd, a social publishing site. Despite building companies in different fields, the two offer the same central advice necessary in building a successful company: trust yourself, have common sense, and there are no rules.
Fall 2009 Quarter Roundup: What Did We Learn? - Steve Blank (Serial Entrepreneur)
11/11/2009
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Duration: 01:00:28

Stanford instructor and seasoned serial entrepreneur Steve Blank looks back at the commonalities and quirks of the quarter's previous speakers. Blank outlines a thorough checklist of questions and analysis helpful to any new enterprise leader, and offers insight and case studies from industry giants and new technology plays alike.
Successful Independent Promotion: From Artist to Entrepreneur - Chamillionaire, Quincy Jones III (QD3)
11/4/2009
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Duration: 46:17

Hip-hop artists Quincy Jones III and Chamillionaire discuss mastering the business side of the music industry. Keeping up with cutting-edge technologies, production logistics, and finding creative ways to gain direct audience contact are essential tactics for the self-produced artist in the digital age.
A Serious Take on Internet Game Play - Mark Pincus, Bing Gordon (Zynga)
10/28/2009
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Duration: 01:04:48

Serial entrepreneur and Zynga founder Mark Pincus and Bing Gordon, longtime Electronic Arts creative mind and investor on behalf of KPCB, provide a very laid-back and desultory conversation. Topics touched upon include successful CEOs, building sustainable companies, mentorship, and the consumer pay-driven Web 3.0.
A Historical Perspective on Semiconductors and Moore's Law - Craig Barrett ((Formerly) Intel)
10/21/2009
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Duration: 01:01:25

Intel Corporation legend, former CEO, and Chairman of the Board Craig Barrett discusses his personal career path from a Stanford Associate Professor, to Silicon Valley consultant, to a 35-year career inside one of the globe's most prominent players in technology. His talk concentrates on Moore's Law and the myriad factors in place to ensure its continued progeny.
Responsible Engineering in the Modern Age - Greg Papadopoulos (Sun)
10/14/2009
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Duration: 01:00:59

Whereas the 20th century belonged to the scientist, the 21st century, says Sun Micosystems' CTO Greg Papadopoulos, is the domain of the engineer. Rather than secretly toiling away on new discoveries, modern engineers are concerned about social responsibility, renewable materials and product lifecycles, collaborative and open source discovery, and furthering industry-wide innovation.
Innovation in a Disruptive Environment - Steve Jurvetson (DFJ)
10/7/2009
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Duration: 59:15

Steve Jurvetson, partner at Draper Fisher Jurvetson, offers perspective on the market opportunities in innovation and technology. Topics discussed include the necessity for utter market disruption, interdisciplinary solutions (particularly across the "bio-nano" life sciences and engineering), and advice for those interested in working in the venture capital arena.
Evangelizing for the Lean Startup - Eric Ries (Author)
9/30/2009
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Duration: 58:38

Speaker, author, and entrepreneur Eric Ries shares rapid fire wisdom on building nimble, responsive, and efficient online software-based businesses. He also offers his wisdom on streamlining processes and progressing engineering systems, and puts forth front line insight into why some new ideas succeed where others have failed.
Lessons From China: The Evolution of The Globe's Largest Search Engine - Robin Li (Baidu)
9/23/2009
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Duration: 52:47

Robin Li, CEO of Baidu, speaks in detail about the launch and growth of the company and the search engine. He discusses how its intimate understanding of Chinese language and culture - and a unique social approach to search - have allowed it to succeed where many North American search giants have faltered.
The Art of Teaching Entrepreneurship and Innovation - Tina Seelig (STVP)
5/27/2009
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Duration: 52:00

Stanford Technology Ventures Program's Executive Director Tina Seelig shares rich insights in creative thinking and the entrepreneurial mindset. Her talk, based on her 2009 book, What I Wish I Knew When I Was 20, cites numerous classroom successes of applied problem-solving and the lessons of failure.
Clean Tech Challenges and Solutions - Steve Westly (The Westly Group)
5/20/2009
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Duration: 57:15

Steve Westly, Founder of clean tech investment firm The Westly Group and former Controller for the state of California, paints a landscape of the present and future opportunities in emerging alternative energy.
Inside the Mind of a Reluctant Entrepreneur - Jeff Hawkins (Numenta)
5/13/2009
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Duration: 57:29

Numenta's Jeff Hawkins, a frequent company founder, inventor, and product designer for Palm and Handspring, highlights lessons learned during his tenure in technology. He also confesses that these accomplishments were mere way stations in his 30-year passionate pursuit of neuroscience.
The Future of Microsoft, The Future of Technology - Steve Ballmer (Microsoft)
5/6/2009
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Duration: 57:38

Steve Ballmer, Microsoft CEO, shares his optimism for emerging innovation in the midst of economic turmoil, and the story of his own entrepreneurial path. He also speaks of his company's continued investment in Internet-ready hardware and software that seeks progress in healthcare, education, and science.
Under the Lid of BioFuelBox - Jennifer Scott Fonstad, Steve Perricone (BioFuelBox)
4/29/2009
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Duration: 56:02

Clean tech is the topic discussed between Steve Perricone, CEO of waste management and energy company BioFuelBox, and one of his investors, DFJ veteran VC Jennifer Scott Fonstad. In addition to discussing the company's technology, structure, and applications, they also expound on current stimulus dollars for alternative energy systems.
Spotlight on Scalability - Sheryl Sandberg (Facebook)
4/22/2009
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Duration: 57:56

Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg shares her trilogy of ideas for a successful start-up and a fulfilling career. Her thoughts include building an enterprise with scalable vision, building personalized, scalable products, and the ability to scale your own connections and capabilities.
Building an Organization, Building a Team - Mari Baker (PlayFirst)
4/15/2009
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Duration: 55:52

After two decades in start-up entrepreneurship, Mari Baker, current CEO of PlayFirst, shares some of her lifelong strategies for long-lasting success. She stresses defining the relentless purpose of the enterprise, honing a focus, and building a conscious company culture, amongst other backbone-building tasks.
Vision Matters - Jensen Huang (NVidia)
4/8/2009
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Duration: 01:01:27

Jensen Huang, co-founder and CEO of NVidia, discusses the importance of having a big vision when starting a new venture. He says that you should not be daunted when others, including early customers, don't share your vision because they don't share your world view. Huang's vision for NVidia involves building a culture of innovation, with the conviction that if you aren't reinventing yourself then you are slowly dying. This culture cultivates risk-taking and, therefore, fosters a tolerance for failure.
Developing the Future of Home Healthcare - Elizabeth Holmes (Theranos)
3/4/2009
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Duration: 56:51

Elizabeth Holmes, President, CEO, and Founder of Theranos, discusses her decision to leave Stanford to launch a biotech company, and what she's learned about raising capital and attracting top talent. Holmes allows the audience to pose numerous inquiries, and she discusses her personal conviction, development process, and path of entrepreneurship.
What is the Next Big Thing? - Tony Perkins, Tim Draper, Michael Moe (AlwaysOn)
2/25/2009
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Duration: 01:10:51

Three Silicon Valley dealmakers - Tony Perkins, CEO of AlwaysOn; Tim Draper, Founder and Managing Director of Draper, Fisher Jurvetson; and Michael Moe, Founding Partner of ThinkEquity - discuss the evolutions in online media, the power of partnerships, and other next-generation opportunities for the global marketplace.
Innovation as the Crux of Entrepreneurship - John Hennessy (Stanford)
2/18/2009
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Duration: 01:01:07

In academia and the private sector, innovation is the most elusive element. And, adds Stanford University President John Hennessy, it's also needed to solve crucial local and global issues. In this address that launches the University's prestigious Entrepreneurship Week event, Hennessy discusses the evolving interplay between higher learning and commercial progress.
Emerging Opportunities in a Post IT Marketplace - Tom Siebel (First Virtual Group)
2/11/2009
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Duration: 01:00:05

Tom Siebel, founder of Siebel Systems and current CEO of First Virtual Group, recaps a history of the information technology boom, and pronounces it a nearly stagnant sector. He focuses on the burgeoning interests in energy, healthcare, food and water, and other market possibilities to meet the needs of an expanding, aging, and more affluent global population.
A History of Venture Capital - Spencer E. Ante (BusinessWeek)
2/4/2009
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Duration: 56:45

Spencer E. Ante, BusinessWeek editor and author, quotes excerpts from his book, Creative Capital: Georges Doriot and the Birth of Venture Capital, and offers a historical portal into the start and evolution of venture capital. He draws an investment timeline starting with the post-WWII economy, delves into the dominance of Silicon Valley, and discusses current recessionary activity.
Making a Big Company Feel Small - Teresa Briggs (Deloitte)
1/28/2009
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Duration: 52:51

What's it like to work inside Deloitte? Managing Partner Teresa Briggs offers insight into the organization and its community outreach programs, and focuses on strategies employed to create intimacy and accountability on a smaller scale.
The Growth and Bloom of Cooliris - Austin Shoemaker, Soujanya Bhumkar, Josh Schwarzapel (Cooliris)
1/21/2009
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Duration: 57:56

The team behind Cooliris - CEO Soujanya Bhumkar, Product Manager Josh Schwarzapel, and CTO Austin Shoemaker - discuss in detail the launch and management of their innovative web-discovery business. Topics discussed include cultivating vigorous start-up energy, building monetization into the product, and building an effective and talented team.
13 Mistakes and 13 Brilliant Strokes - Hugh Martin (Pacific Biosciences)
1/14/2009
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Duration: 54:30

Hugh Martin, Chairman and CEO of Pacific Biosciences, looks back on the evolution of his career - from building computers to creating the future of medicine. Martin charts the lessons he learned working for large technology firms, as a leader in several successful start-ups, and while being courted by the VC community to launch a new wave in bioscience.
Young at Heart: How to Be an Innovator for Life - Tom Kelley (IDEO)
11/12/2008
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Duration: 58:52

Tom Kelley, general manager at the world-renowned design firm, IDEO, presents five core practices that enhance creativity. Through entertaining stories and examples, he describes how these techniques help us all become more innovative in every aspect of our lives and lead to more success.
A Cuil Tune-up for Search Engines - Anna Patterson (Cuil)
11/5/2008
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Duration: 55:20

As a research scientist at Stanford University, Anna Patterson committed herself to indexing the world's online information. Her latest venture, Cuil (pronounced "cool") is a search engine that is challenging Google. She explains how she is using her experience with startups and non-profits to take on her former employer.
Is Innovation Withering on the Vine? - Judy Estrin (JLabs)
10/29/2008
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Duration: 58:06

JLabs LLC CEO and author Judy Estrin puts the processes and philosophies of innovation under the microscope. Her current analysis indicates that we're short-changing the business arena and culture at large, as we've stopped planting the seeds for true, monumental invention and problem-solving.
The Black Swans of Energy Invention - Vinod Khosla (Khosla Ventures)
10/22/2008
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Duration: 58:13

Toss the old notions of environmentalism into the recycling bin. Investor Vinod Khosla of Khosla Ventures shatters conventional wisdom of energy reduction, and instead encourages entrepreneurs to solve environmental problems via cost-effective, innovative, and scalable engineering.
Balancing Economy, Equity, and Ecology Through Design - William McDonough (Architect and Author)
10/15/2008
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Duration: 01:07:45

How do we love all of the children of all species for all time? The unlikely answer comes from architect, materials designer, VC, and eco-efficiency expert William McDonough, who sees the challenge of cycling biological and technical "nutrients" as industry's ultimate goal.
The Next Wave of Industry: Global Clean Tech - Erik Straser (MDV)
10/8/2008
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Duration: 57:57

Mohr Davidow Ventures partner Erik Straser offers insight on the unfolding sector of new energy technologies, and discusses how it will be affected by an economy in credit crisis. He unveils the market's high level of industrial innovation, and offers students of entrepreneurship sound advice on finding the next crest in grand socioeconomic opportunity.
Retooling Early Stage Development - Steve Blank (Serial Entrepreneur)
10/1/2008
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Duration: 56:52

Ninety-percent of Silicon Valley's start-ups fail not because of faulty product, but because they don't tap the right market and they don't know their customer. Well-seasoned serial entrepreneur Steve Blank drafts a new model for plotting the path between good idea and market success.
Music Artists Go Entrepreneurial - Tony Perkins (AlwaysOn Panel)
7/24/2008
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Duration: 01:00:50

Quincy Jones III, CEO of QD3 Entertainment moderates an engaging and entertaining panel discussion on the future of the music industry. Captured during the AlwaysOn Stanford Summit, panelists include Chamillionaire, Grammy Award winning & platinum recording artist, MC Hammer, and Mistah FAB.
A VC Perspective on the Life Sciences - Beth Seidenberg (KPCB)
5/28/2008
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Duration: 57:53

Beth Seidenberg, partner at venture firm Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers, speaks at length about KPCB's current areas of interest, and its litmus test for projects worth supporting. Seidenberg also offers a case study of a life sciences firm moving from research lab toward market.
Under the Microscope: Socially Responsible Biotech - John Melo (Amyris)
5/21/2008
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Duration: 59:07

Amyris Biotechnologies CEO John Melo explains his company's endeavors in the sustainable sciences; working both to fight disease and to create renewable energies. Melo also reflects upon his personal career path, from immigrant, to start-up, to Big Oil - and back to start-up again.
The Next Wave of Corporate Philanthropy - Larry Brilliant (Google.org)
5/14/2008
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Duration: 57:13

In contrast to simply donating dollars for public relations benefit, in-house altruism today means ubiquitous dedication to real causes. Dr. Larry Brilliant, Executive Director for Google.org, points out that effective business-backed giving means global outreach, partnerships with experts at the heart of solving problems, and a dedicated percentage of gross income to keep these projects afloat.
The Evolution of Yahoo! - Sue Decker (Yahoo!)
5/7/2008
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Duration: 57:43

Just days after Yahoo! rejected Microsoft's bid, President Sue Decker unveils Yahoo!'s candid perspective on the news-making deal. Decker also points out the early Internet leader's strategic failures of the past, and details Yahoo!'s reinvention strategies in a competitive, advertising-driven online marketplace.
Unreeling the Documentary Film - Anand Chandrasekaran, Michealene C. Risley (Tapestries of Hope)
4/30/2008
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Duration: 47:34

Documentary filmmakers Anand Chandrasekaran and Michaelene C. Risley discuss not only the inspiration for their film, Tapestries of Hope, but also some of the logistics of its production. Topics include fundraising strategies and how the film team overcame obstacles along the way.
Rewarding Sky-High Innovation - Peter Diamandis, George Zachary (X Prize)
4/23/2008
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Duration: 55:41

Today's revolutionary breakthroughs are yesterday's crazy ideas. And Peter Diamandis, chairman and CEO of the X PRIZE Foundation and entrepreneur behind numerous commercial space travel ventures, speaks at length about finding support for new business frontiers that, literally, are out of this world.
Concentrated Power in a Global Economy - David Rothkopf (Author)
4/16/2008
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Duration: 58:58

David Rothkopf, CEO of Garten Rothkopf and author of Superclass: The Global Power Elite and the World They are Making, mulls over the research in his latest social macroeconomic tome. He iterates a wealth of trends and statistics on the ever-broadening gap between rich and poor, and how true global influence is the product of a shockingly small handful of global players.
Entrepreneurship that Clicks - Jeff Housenbold (Shutterfly)
4/9/2008
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Duration: 56:15

Jeff Housenbold, entrepreneur and CEO of Shutterfly, captures a candid snapshot of what it means to be an entrepreneur. He focuses on his multi-decade shift from finance to photos, and spotlights how Shutterfly shapes memories, rather than moves product.
Banking on Corporate Culture and Strategy - Ken Wilcox (Silicon Valley Bank)
3/5/2008
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Duration: 57:46

An outstanding office culture trumps all, says Ken Wilcox, the CEO of Silicon Valley Bank, who heads the most noted financial hub for the technology sector. Wilcox discusses how his financial services institution has scaffolded against recession, and bullet points the uniqueness of commercial banking for the tech start-up.
Representing the Socially Responsible Enterprise - Debra Dunn, Jay Coen Gilbert, Bart Houlahan, Andrew Kassoy (B Corporation)
2/27/2008
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Duration: 50:56

The co-founders of B Lab, Jay Coen Gilbert, Bart Houlahan, and Andrew Kassoy, unveil their infrastructure play that seeks to give voice to the burgeoning panoply of green business. They explain how a higher set of corporate standards accountable to the environment, employees, and the community, can craft a healthier corporate ecosystem for all.
Healthy Entrepreneurship in Medical Devices - Mir Imran (InCube Laboratories)
2/20/2008
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Duration: 54:28

Parallel entrepreneur Mir Imran, CEO of InCube Labs, has launched twenty companies - at times simultaneously. He shares his solutions-focused expertise and identifies the vitality and growth of the biomedical healthcare vertical.
The Path to an Acquisition - Brett Crosby (Google Analytics)
2/13/2008
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Duration: 01:01:05

Brett Crosby, Group Manager of Google Analytics, describes the ebb and flow of the process by which his web analytics company, Urchin, was acquired by Google. He also shares some inspirational lessons in making small business loom large.
Entrepreneurial Practices for High-Impact Non-Profits - Christine Benninger (Humane Society)
2/6/2008
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Duration: 48:42

The Humane Society of Silicon Valley had gone to the dogs before president Christine Benninger took hold of the leash in 1993. By nearly every metric - profits earned, animals saved, customers satisfied - she outlines how proven business practices transformed the HSSV into best of breed.
Intersection of the Environment and Financial Markets - Jesse Fink, Steve Blank (Priceline, Serial Entrepreneur)
1/30/2008
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Duration: 57:51

Retired serial entrepreneur Steve Blank interviews MissionPoint Capital co-founder Jesse Fink. The two discuss the manifold investment opportunities in alternative energies and environmental conservation.
Angel Investing Revealed - Ron Conway, Mike Maples Jr. (Angel Investors)
1/23/2008
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Duration: 01:00:13

Experienced angel investors, Ron Conway, Founder of Angel Investors LP, and Mike Maples, Founder of Maples Investments, provide a rare look into the ins and outs of angel investing. Conway and Maples discuss how angel investors assess opportunities, provide assistance to entrepreneurs and transition start-ups to larger venture investments or exit. In addition, Conway and Maples provide advice to entrepreneurs about finding one's passion and developing that passion into new ventures, including insight into how much money to raise and how to manage that money after it is in the bank.
How to Build a Successful Company - Mitch Kapor (Foxmarks)
1/16/2008
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Duration: 55:24

Serial entrepreneur Mitch Kapor speaks about the fundamental principles of building successful companies by drawing on his experience as creator of Lotus 1-2-3, Chairman of Second Life, Founder of Foxmarks and a wealth of technical and social entrepreneurship knowledge. Kapor emphasizes the elements of company building that technology has changed, such as faster feedback cycles and lower barriers to entry, as well as the elements that remain the same, such as how to establish culture and trust. Kapor illuminates his observations with contemporary and historical examples that create a context-rich primer on building vibrant companies.
Delivering a Digital Torrent - Ashwin Navin, Ping Li (BitTorrent)
11/28/2007
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Duration: 55:58

Ping Li from Accel and Ashwin Navin, the President and Co-Founder of BitTorrent, Inc. talk about BitTorrent's journey from an open-source project to being a global standard for delivering high-quality files over the Internet. He discusses how their team worked on changing the landscape of digital media distribution. His company evolved to provide a revenue proposition to some of the largest media companies in the world. Navin mentions the company's plan of scaling internationally in countries like Japan as being key to its success in the future.
Connecting Common Experiences - Armen Berjikly, Julio Vasconcellos (Experience Project)
11/14/2007
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Duration: 58:06

Armen Berjikly, the Founder and CEO of The Experience Project, and Julio Vasconcellos, VP of Business Development discuss their experience of building a technology start-up that unites people who can improve each other's lives. Berjikly discusses how he built his new venture from fund raising to establishing the company infrastructure. He talks about the importance of hiring the right people to work in a start-up and illustrates the key role of a "Mentor Capitalist" in the journey of an entrepreneur. Berjikly also describes the financial and psychological challenges an entrepreneur faces while building a company.
The Growth of Solar Ventures - Larry Bawden (Jadoo Power)
11/7/2007
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Duration: 43:39

Larry Bawden is a co-founder of Jadoo Power, an innovative supplier of fuel cells, and Q1 Nanosytems, a next-generation photo-voltaics provider. Bawden addresses the new landscape in technology and energy and notes the pivotal role of newer technologies in the global economy. He talks about the four fundamental planetary crises - Global Warming, Peak Oil, Population Peak and Resource Depletion that are driving changes in world. Bawden also acknowledges the rise of third generation technology and the fundamental shifts in business that it has created. He believes that these changes have created a favorable environment to launch new ventures.
The Art of Negotiation - Stan Christensen (Arbor Advisors)
10/31/2007
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Duration: 59:38

Stan Christensen is a partner at Arbor Advisors, an investment banking firm where he negotiates on behalf of mid-market technology companies. In this lecture, Christensen builds a framework and illuminates a few of the classical mistakes in negotiation. He defines negotiation as an attempt to persuade or influence a situation. He emphasizes relationship management and problem solving as being fundamental to negotiation. He also alludes to the conceptual framework by illustrating examples from his vast global experience.
Startups: The Need for Speed - Dominic Orr (Aruba Networks)
10/17/2007
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Duration: 57:57

Dominic Orr is the President and CEO of Aruba Networks, a supplier of secure mobility and wireless Local Area Network (LAN) solutions for enterprises. Orr unveils Aruba's approach to building solutions for mobile workforces at Fortune 500 and Global 2000 companies like Microsoft, NTT Data, and SAP. He articulates Aruba's strategies for competing with mammoths like Cisco, and emphasizes that speed of execution in this highly competitive market is key to his company's success.
Lessons from the Electric Roadster - Martin Eberhard (Tesla Motors)
10/10/2007
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Duration: 55:21

Martin Eberhard is the Co-Founder, President of Technology and former CEO of Tesla Motors, a company that produces the Tesla Roadster, a battery-powered electric sports car. Eberhard discusses his inspiring journey of diverse experiences in building Tesla Motors. He describes the lessons he learned: from the realization of doing something meaningful to thinking an idea through and aggressively following all leads. Tesla Motors which started with two employees is now more than 250 employees strong.
From Venture Capitalist to Entrepreneur - Donna Novitsky (Big Tent)
10/3/2007
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Duration: 56:14

Donna Novitsky, CEO of Big Tent Design and a former venture capitalist at Mohr Davidow Ventures contrasts her experiences as an executive in a start-up, a venture capitalist and as an entrepreneur. Novitsky addresses the role of risk mitigation in investing in new ventures and the importance of having a singular focus, aligning company goals with funding requirements and team work in an entrepreneurial environment. Her motto, "Go big or don't go!" has driven her endeavors from her first job to her new venture.
Social Networking 3.0 - Tony Perkins (AlwaysOn Panel)
8/16/2007
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Duration: 57:20

Introduced by AlwaysOn founder Tony Perkins, this panel discussion considers the new opportunities related to the social networking space. Panelists include moderator Charlene Li, Senior Analyst, Forrester Research; Travis Katz, SVP, MySpace International; Dustin Moskovitz, Co-Founder, Facebook; Rich Rosenblatt, CEO, Demand Media; Gina Bianchini, CEO, Ning; Karl Jacob, CEO, Wallop.
The Positive Impact of Entrepreneurship in the American Economy - Carl J. Schramm (Kauffman Foundation)
8/6/2007
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Duration: 19:46

Carl Schramm, President of the Kauffman Foundation, examines the vital role of entrepreneurship in the changing economy. He emphasizes how entrepreneurs have a positive influence on the American economy by creating ways to reinvent and innovate the rules of life. For example, half of the jobs created in 2007 are from firms less than five years old. Entrepreneurs teach us about human needs we did not know existed, create jobs that provide security for people, and generate social welfare, he says.
Negotiations On and Off the Field - Steve Young, Stan Christensen (Former NFL Quarterback)
5/22/2007
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Duration: 01:28:36

Steve Young, former quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers, describes the lessons he's learned in negotiating with teammates, agents, and in his personal life. Interviewed as a guest in Stan Christensen's Negotiations course, Young provides insight through humorous anecdotes across a broad range of experience. In particular, he describes different negotiation tactics that were useful throughout his career as a quarterback, lawyer, and entrepreneur. While earning his spot as the fiery leader of the 49ers, balancing life with children, and undergoing multiple business ventures, Young highlights the use of accountability, soft skills to deal with personal feelings, and working hard with no excuses, to achieve success.
The No Jerk Rule - Bob Sutton (Stanford)
5/30/2007
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Duration: 53:21

In this audio podcast, Professor Bob Sutton discusses "breakthrough" ideas in his latest book about dealing with difficult and conflicting relationships in a work environment. Sutton describes strategies to deal with "jerks" in an organization, and he illustrates the application of his ideas by using real-world examples sourced from readers' email responses to his new book.
Community-Based Organizations - Mitchell Baker (Mozilla)
5/23/2007
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Duration: 58:42

Mitchell Baker, "Chief Lizard Wrangler" at Mozilla, discusses the organization's unique, community-based culture and how it has contributed to their success. She explains how freedom, openness, and dedication to improving Internet usability fosters extraordinary contributions from Mozilla's employees and volunteers.
Adventures of a Startup CEO: No Guts No Glory - Andrew Frame, Warren Packard (Ooma)
5/16/2007
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Duration: 55:28

Warren Packard, Managing Director of Draper Fisher Jurvetson, and Andrew Frame, CEO of Ooma, present 10 lessons for building a successful start-up. They highlight the importance of dislocating large markets, active recruiting, organizational design, board construction, alignment of vision, managing mis-hires, building for scalability, product development, intellectual capital, and mentorship in establishing a lasting enterprise that adds value in the marketplace.
Overcoming Adversity and Taking Risks - Jackie Speier, Deborah Stephens (Former St Senator)
5/9/2007
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Duration: 59:19

Former California State Senator Jackie Speier and best-selling author Deborah Collins Stephens share engaging stories about taking risks, learning from failure, overcoming adversity, and challenging the status quo based on their extensive leadership experience.
Leadership and Choice - Carly Fiorina (Former CEO, HP)
5/2/2007
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Duration: 01:11:40

Carly Fiorina, CEO of Hewlett Packard (1999-2005), discusses her leadership experience in her journey from the job of a secretary to the leader of one of the biggest technology companies in the world. Fiorina describes ways in which leadership in business and entrepreneurship entails developing an appetite for risk and overcoming the fear of change. Fiorina concludes with a message that leadership is about building capability, collaboration and character.
The Physics of Startups - Shai Agassi (SAP AG)
4/25/2007
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Duration: 47:16

Shai Agassi discusses his entrepreneurial journey from the enterprise software industry to his current work in clean energy. In the process, he describes the "physics of startups", drawing parallels between principles of business and the laws of physics. He emphasizes the importance of acting on an idea before it's adopted by the mainstream and navigating the inevitable uncertainties that can result in success or failure.
Phases of a Startup - Mark Jung (IGN)
4/18/2007
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Duration: 54:02

Mark Jung, former internet CEO and entrepreneur, discusses the personal and professional challenges in the five phases of a startup. Jung explores these phases, namely inception, growth, setback, rejuvenation and transition. He advises that the first stop is not the last stop, and an entrepreneur should continuously share confidence and faith with the organization while facing challenges.
It's Your Ship: Lessons in Leadership - William Perry (Former Sec. of Defense)
4/11/2007
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Duration: 59:33

Dr. William J. Perry, former Secretary of Defense discusses lessons in leadership reminding us that a pivotal point in management is realizing that "It's your ship" and your own "crew". Perry draws parallels from his experience in business as an entrepreneur and in the government in various critical technology development roles and most recently as the Secretary of Defense (1994-1997). Perry ends with an incisive management principle applicable both in the corporate world and the government - "Take care of your troops and they will take care of you."
The Role of Entrepreneurship in Solving World Problems - Tom Byers, Brook Byers, Kavita Ramdas, Paul Yock, Jeff Koseff, KR Sridhar, Chip Blacker, John Hennessy (eWeek Panel Discussion)
2/28/2007
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Duration: 01:22:44

Prominent industry leaders team up with Stanford Faculty to discuss entrepreneurial solutions to problems in the areas of international affairs, human health and the environment. They tackle world issues from a global and technical perspective beyond the usual bureaucratic approach with a special focus on developing nations.
An Entrepreneurial Perspective on the Life Sciences Industry - G. Steven Burrill (Burrill & Co.)
2/21/2007
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Duration: 01:02:21

Steve Burrill, CEO of Burrill & Co., provides an overview of the life sciences industry, reflecting on insights he has gained throughout his career. Along the way, he shares his laws of survival and anecdotes that relate the keys to his success in the areas of biotechnology, venture capital and merchant banking.
5 Must-Haves of an Entrepreneurial Career - Gregory Waldorf (eHarmony)
2/14/2007
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Duration: 01:00:27

Greg Waldorf, CEO of the online matchmaking service eHarmony.com, describes the essential components of a successful entrepreneurial career. He believes that working with great people, taking risks, adaptability, passion and timely execution of plans can lead to success for entrepreneurs. He draws parallels between the satisfaction found through finding the right career path and a fulfilling relationship.
Choosing the Entrepreneurial Path - Reid Hoffman (LinkedIn)
2/7/2007
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Duration: 01:03:19

In this candid entrepreneurial narrative, Reid Hoffman describes his journey from academia to PayPal, to finally founding the professional networking site LinkedIn. Hoffman suggests that to be a successful entrepreneur you have to take risks where others wouldn't and be willing to deviate from the beaten path.
The Dynamic Relationship Between an Entrepreneur and VC - Ron Bloom, Ray Lane (PodShow)
1/31/2007
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Duration: 01:01:43

Ray Lane, General Partner at Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers and Ron Bloom, CEO of PodShow, describe their relationship in building an online media entertainment company focused on meeting the fast-changing demands of today's web users.
Changing the Game of Enterprise Software - Tien Tzuo (Salesforce.com)
1/24/2007
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Duration: 52:20

Tien Tzuo, Chief Strategy Officer for Salesforce.com, describes seven lessons for transforming an enterprise software business from a traditional direct sales model to one which leverages the internet to produce in-bound sales. He stresses the awareness cycle for Salesforce.com's products, free-trial offers, onion-based product design and the continuing importance of events in the complex enterprise software industry.
The New Adventures of Old VC's - Janice Roberts (Mayfield Fund)
1/17/2007
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Duration: 49:11

Janice Roberts, General Partner at Mayfield, discusses how Mayfield is going global and carefully evaluating opportunities in countries like India and China. She stresses the importance of accessing the needs of young customers who are embracing new technologies at an extremely fast pace and demanding more products and services.
Words of Wisdom from an Experienced CEO - Scott Kriens (Juniper Networks)
11/29/2006
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Duration: 56:52

In a humble and anecdotal talk, Scott Kriens, CEO of Juniper Networks, walks through the founding and growth of the company. He provides insight on a variety of issues ranging from the power of strong markets, to personal growth, to globalization and net neutrality.
Confessions of a Serial Silicon Valley CEO - Greg Ballard (Glu Mobile)
11/15/2006
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Duration: 01:00:27

Greg Ballard, a veteran entrepreneur and currently the CEO of Glu Mobile, shares his business insights on products, people and values through a variety of enlightening and entertaining anecdotes.
The New Frontier in Gaming - Nick Earl (EA)
11/8/2006
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Duration: 01:04:26

Nick Earl, Vice President and General Manager of Electronic Arts shares his thoughts on the future of the gaming market. He discusses the changing global market space, the latest generation of consoles, mobile game distribution, user generated content, social networks and EA's strategy in the online gaming space.
A Culture of Making a Difference - Joe McCracken (Genentech)
11/1/2006
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Duration: 58:52

Joe McCracken, Vice President of Business Development at Genentech, walks through the founding and growth phase of the company. In particular, McCracken describes the culture at Genentech, which is credited for consistent ground breaking R&D and the resulting financial success.
"Founding Prosper, a People-to-People Lending Marketplace" - Chris Larsen, Jim Breyer (Prosper)
10/25/2006
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Duration: 55:43

Jim Breyer, a partner at Accel Investments, interviews Chris Larsen, the founder and CEO of Prosper - America's first people-to-people lending marketplace. Ranging from regulation to global financial markets, Larsen shares a wide variety of experiences in founding both e-Loan.com and Prosper.
"Vision, Values & Strategy" - Rick Wallace (KLA-Tencor)
10/18/2006
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Duration: 56:51

Rick Wallace, recently appointed CEO of KLA-Tencor, shares his management philosophy and the key to the company's success over the last 30 years. He stresses the importance of having a clear vision, distinct values and a well defined strategy to take care of his key constituencies: employees, customers and shareholders.
Research Lens on Understanding Entrepreneurial Firms - Kathleen M. Eisenhardt (STVP)
10/4/2006
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Duration: 50:50

Kathy Eisenhardt, co-director of Stanford Technology Ventures Program and professor in Management Science and Engineering, shares results from her research regarding successful ventures, addressing fundamental issues such as team building, market creation and financing.
The Contrasts of a Big Company and a Small Start-Up - Gil Penchina (Wikia)
6/7/2006
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Duration: 55:36

Gil Penchina, CEO of Wikia, and an 8-year veteran of eBay, contrasts his experiences and lessons of working in a big company with heading a small start-up.
Groundbreaking Healthcare Initiatives and the Entrepreneurial Minds Behind Them - Ryan Phelan (DNA Direct)
5/31/2006
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Duration: 53:40

Ryan Phelan, founder and CEO of DNA Direct, shares her thoughts on entrepreneurship, both for-profit and not-for-profit, based on her experience launching groundbreaking healthcare initiatives that provide public access to comprehensive medical information and genetic testing.
Nine Lessons Learned about Creativity at Google - Marissa Mayer (Google)
5/17/2006
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Duration: 47:53

Marissa Mayer, Vice President of Search Products and User Experience at Google, shares nine lessons learned about fostering creative ideas and innovation based on her experience developing highly successful Web applications at Google.
The Ins and Outs of a successful Biotechnology Company - Pam Marrone (AgraQuest)
5/10/2006
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Duration: 48:56

Pam Marrone, founder of AgraQuest, relates the challenges and rewards she experienced in building a successful biotechnology company that specializes in ecologically friendly agricultural products.
Secret to Successful Negotiations - Joel Peterson, Stan Christensen (Peterson Partners)
5/2/2006
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Duration: 01:27:10

Joel Peterson, founder of Peterson Partners, discusses the secret to successful negotiations. He reminds us that negotiation is how one navigates their way through life, and in order to have successful negotiations, people must be empowered, have high character, and confidence. Peterson draws from his experience as CEO of one of the world's largest real estate development firms and most recently founded Peterson Partners- an equity fund in search of talented and visionary CEOs.
The Fairy Tale of Innovent and How it Came to be - Stephanie Keller-Bottom (Nokia)
4/26/2006
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Duration: 47:05

Stephanie Keller-Bottom, Director of Nokia Innovent, shares experiences and lessons learned in founding Innovent, Nokia's entrepreneurial innovation unit that explores emerging markets and the opportunities they create.
The Story of Proactiv Solution - Katie Rodan (Proactiv)
4/19/2006
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Duration: 51:29

Katie Rodan, co-founder of Proactiv Solution talks about her personal journey from a resident in the medical school program to an entrepreneur. She shares the trials and tribulations of her experience in the creation of Proactiv, a globally recognized skin care product.
What I Wish I Knew When I Was 20 - Tina Seelig (STVP)
4/12/2006
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Duration: 41:47

Tina Seelig, Executive Director for the Stanford Technology Ventures Program, provides insights on life, leadership, and the little things that make a big difference in an entrepreneurial setting.
Life Inside a Law Firm - John Roos (WSGR)
3/8/2006
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Duration: 54:57

John Roos, CEO of Wilson Sonsini Goodrich and Rosati, has represented many major Silicon Valley companies during mergers and acquisitions, initial public offerings, strategic alliances, and joint ventures. In this lecture, he describes many of the lessons he's learned since joining the firm in 1988, including building a brand, taking risks, and the importance of integrity.
Balancing Work and Life - Carol Bartz (Autodesk)
3/1/2006
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Duration: 43:27

Carol Bartz, Executive Chairman of the Board and CEO of Autodesk for the past 14 years, reflects on her experience of running one of the largest PC software companies in the world while finding a balance between her career and personal life. She also stresses the importance of continued learning and addresses the challenges of succeeding in a global market.
Lessons Learned in the Life Sciences Industry - Michael Goldberg (MDV)
2/22/2006
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Duration: 50:55

Michael Goldberg, General Partner at Mohr Davidow Ventures and Founder of Axion Inc., shares lessons learned through his 25 years of experience as an entrepreneur and investor in the life sciences industry.
Entrepreneurship and Philanthropy Through the Eyes of an Immigrant - Chong-Moon Lee (Ambex Venture Group)
2/15/2006
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Duration: 56:02

Chong-Moon Lee, chairman and CEO of Ambex Venture Group, and founder of Diamond Multimedia Systems, describes his path to becoming one of the most distinguished entrepreneurs and philanthropists in Silicon Valley.
Strategies in the Biopharmaceutical Industry - Kim Popovits (Genomic Health)
2/8/2006
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Duration: 51:22

Kim Popovits, President and COO of Genomic Health, Inc., discusses the organizational and technological strategies that have contributed to her success in the biopharmaceutical industry.
Entrepreneurial Leadership Qualities - Janice Fraser (Adaptive Path)
2/1/2006
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Duration: 55:29

Janice Fraser, CEO and a founding partner of Adaptive Path, discusses the entrepreneurial leadership qualities that have contributed to the success of her user experience consulting company.
Two Brothers Building a Company From Scratch - Bobby Beaver, Jeff Beaver (Zazzle)
1/25/2006
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Duration: 53:03

Jeff and Bobby Beaver, Co-founders of Zazzle and graduates of Stanford University, describe their story and entrepreneurial experiences in building an internet start-up. They discuss the passion, dedication and the power of small teams in achieving a vision.
Ten Enduring Success Factors for High Technology Entrepreneurship - Tom Byers (STVP)
1/18/2006
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Duration: 52:57

Stanford University professor, Tom Byers, discusses ten enduring success factors of high-technology entrepreneurship, including planning, teamwork, venture financing, leadership, cash flow, market positioning, partnerships, and identifying business opportunities.
Using Creative Leadership - Frank Ricks (LRK Architecture)
11/16/2005
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Duration: 56:49

Frank Ricks, Founder of LRK Architecture, discusses design and creating value for clients while using creative leadership to increase the firm from seven to a hundred and sixty employees.
Twenty Years of Experience in Developing Software in Silicon Valley - Kim Polese (SpikeSource)
11/9/2005
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Duration: 58:46

Kim Polese, CEO of SpikeSource, describes her twenty years of experience in developing software in Silicon Valley including Java development with Sun Microsystems. She also discusses SpikeSource's relationship with the open source community.
From Start-up to Market Dominance in the Field of Surgical Robotics - Lonnie Smith (Intuitive Surgical)
11/2/2005
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Duration: 50:21

Lonnie Smith, President and CEO of Intuitive Surgical, discusses Intuitive's path from start-up to market dominance in the field of surgical robotics.
From Harvard to the Facebook - Mark Zuckerberg, Jim Breyer (Facebook)
10/26/2005
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Duration: 56:24

Mark Zuckerberg, founder of TheFacebook, is interviewed by VC, Jim Breyer, Managing Partner of Accel. Mark describes what it was like to leave Harvard to venture into a business to build a social utility tool for college students around the world.
The Passion and Perseverance Behind a Start-up - Joe Liemandt (Trilogy)
10/19/2005
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Duration: 56:57

Joe Liemandt, founder, President and CEO of Trilogy, describes the passion and perseverance it took to take his enterprise software company from a five-person start-up to a global industry leader.
The Technology of Podcasting - Evan Williams (Odeo)
10/12/2005
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Duration: 56:57

Evan Williams, Co-founder and CEO of Odeo, discusses his views on the opportunities and challenges in the quickly emerging technology of Podcasting.
The Microfinance of Entrepreneurship - Geoff Davis (Unitus)
10/5/2005
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Duration: 51:41

Geoff Davis, founder and CEO of Unitus, talks about microfinance at the Entrepreneurial Thought Leader lecture series emphasizing the relevance and potential of this field.
Stimulating Innovation and Creativity in the Workplace - Bob Sutton (Stanford)
8/26/2006
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Duration: 56:19

Robert Sutton, Co-Director of the Center for Work, Technology, and Organization at Stanford University focuses on what it takes to stimulate innovation and creativity in the workplace and relates the key points from his book "Weird Ideas that Work."
Entrepreneurship Within a Marriage - Randy Komisar, Debra Dunn (KPCB)
5/25/2005
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Duration: 01:03:27

Randy Komisar of KPCB and Debra Dunn, previously of HP, discuss entrepreneurship during the Entrepreneurial Thought Leader lecture series.
Entrepreneurship Viewed as a Tool and When to Use it in Industry & Science - Jeff Hawkins (Palm Computing)
5/18/2005
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Duration: 54:48

Jeff Hawkins, founder of Palm Computing and director of the Redwood Neuroscience Institute, speaks at Stanford University's Entrepreneurial Thought Leader lecture series.

podcast reviews

Date Usefulness

Every entrepreneur must hear!

By sblom11/3/2009 17:45:46

I started listening to this podcast after I left life a ginormously big software company for a tiny little software startup. I'm really glad I did, because I have learned so much from it. Every entrepreneur, or even the entrepreneurially-curious, should listen to this series.

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