The first set of questions are focused on me:

• What are some honest, unfiltered things about you?

  • I have struggled with ADD / ADHD since I was young (and still do)
  • I have difficulty staying focused in meetings that last longer than an hour
  • I have been known to interrupt and introduce tangential ideas when I lose focus
  • I sometimes hold back because I don’t want to create too much conflict or hurt others feelings
  • I sincerely care about my co-workers and their professional and personal success
  • I badly want to be part of a world-class, enduring organization
  • I have chosen to live a sober life
  • I see myself more as a talent scout than a financier
  • I believe that 80% of a VCs job is finding and picking the right founder/company
  • I can struggle with prioritization of projects because I fall victim to my inbox and calendar (this is something I’m trying to work on right now)

• What drives you nuts?

  • Meetings without an owner, clearly defined objectives, and action items
  • Teammates on devices and email during meetings
  • Team meetings that start late
  • Using Slack for all communications (sometimes email is better!)
  • Not summarizing the thesis / big idea / highlights / lowlights before diving into the details
  • When people aren’t honest, upfront or open (be real!)
  • Mediocre effort on a project / going through the motions

• What are your quirks?

  • I love to make origami with sticky notes in meetings
  • I can interrupt if excited or inpatient
  • I’ve been known to meditate in the office

• How can people earn an extra gold star with you?

  • Communicate clearly and concisely
  • Take ownership and execute from beginning to end
  • By constantly asking how does this [project / activity] truly benefit founders and the firm
  • Be vulnerable and real - express your view respectfully even if it's difficult

• What qualities do you particularly value in people who work with you?

  • Open, honest and ethical
  • Hard working
  • Team first attitude
  • Growth mindset
  • Strong communicator -- clear and concise
  • Hustle and grit

• What are some things that people might misunderstand about you that you should clarify?

  • I have struggled with interrupting and going on tangents for most of my life. This dates back to grade school. I was put into special ed because of my ADD. I realize this comes across as rude, arrogant, absent minded, etc. I do have good intentions. This is something I’m trying hard to work on. When it happens please respectfully call me out.
  • Just because I meditate daily and try to be mindful doesn't mean I’m perfect. I’m human.

The next set of questions are focused on how I interact with others:

• How do you coach people to do their best work and develop their talents?

  • Focus on no more than two large projects / areas at a time
  • Double down on your strengths and super powers
  • Develop yourself through lots of deliberate and methodical practice
  • Focus on activities that a) give you energy and/or b) provide the firm with leverage
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help
  • Speak up if you have an idea or question

• What’s the best way to communicate with you?

  • Text for quick communications
  • Email for sharing of decks / documents / project updates
  • Phone, zoom for important discussions (deals, performance, feedback)

• What’s the best way to convince you to do something?

  • Clearly state what you’d like me to do and why (TLDR version)
  • Explain why this is important to you and/or the organization
  • Use data to support your request (if necessary)

• How do you like to give feedback?

  • In person and as close to real-time as possible
  • Also, Google Docs or Notion if about a specific work deliverable