Tim Draper makes an appearance on the Divot Podcast! Before becoming one of the most influential venture capitalists in Silicon Valley, Tim Draper built a career defined by early conviction, independent thinking, and a willingness to back ideas long before they reached mainstream belief. Over decades, Tim has invested in and supported some of the most transformational companies of the modern era, shaping how the world communicates, moves money, explores space, and builds technology.
In this conversation, Tim reflects on backing category-defining companies, including Tesla, SpaceX, Skype, Hotmail, Twitch, and Robinhood, investments that went on to create hundreds of billions of dollars in enterprise value and permanently change global industries. He also shares the impact of Draper University, where thousands of founders have been trained, leading to thousands of companies launched and multiple billion-dollar outcomes.
This episode dives deep into Bitcoin and economic freedom, tracing Tim’s early belief in decentralized systems, his experience buying Bitcoin as early as 2011, and why he views it not as a trade but as a long-term technological shift with global implications, especially in a world of inflation, fragile banking systems, and unstable currencies.
On The Frontier, Tim Draper’s AI twin sits down with his father, Bill Draper’s AI twin, for a rare multi-generational conversation on the origins and evolution of venture capital. From knocking on doors in 1959 Silicon Valley orchards to global funds, AI-driven deal sourcing, and Bitcoin’s disruptive promise, they explore timeless lessons on optimism, human connection, and risk. A journey through family, history, and the future of entrepreneurship.
Vanessa Larco, former NEA partner and product leader at Box, Twilio, and Microsoft, shares her journey from Miami hustler to Silicon Valley insider. She dives into spotting true consumer disruption, the GenAI startup boom, and the pros and cons of Big Tech vs startups. Hear her insights on gaming’s evolution, building diverse tech communities, and how behavioral shifts spark innovation. If you want to build or invest in great products, this episode is packed with insight.
Join our heroes as they embark on their entrepreneurial journey at Draper University! In their first lesson on working relationships, they receive valuable advice from Ho Nam, Co-Founder of Altos Ventures.
Discover the heroes of Draper University’s Fall 2022 Hero Training program in Silicon Valley. Gain insights into how Draper University revolutionizes education. Special expertise from Adam Draper of Boost VC.
Comedian and actor T.J. Miller dives into Bitcoin, NFTs, and blockchain in this fun and episode. He shares his journey into crypto, discusses the impact of digital ownership on Hollywood, and offers humorous takes on Bitcoin and Ordinals.
Discover the immense value of founder savvy, taught by guest speakers at Tim Draper’s Draper University in Silicon Valley.
Many people love the idea of starting a business, making money, and becoming celebrated entrepreneurs, but this journey is unsuitable for everyone. It requires certain qualities, characteristics, and discipline to start, maintain, and expand an enterprise – many things on a checklist. But if you’re willing to put in the work, it can be a great way to achieve your dreams and goals. Be sure to do your research, create a solid business plan and pivot along the way. Once you’re operational, don’t forget to stay focused and organized so you can continue to grow your business. Have a solid checklist always handy to track your goals.
A human-centered business. This organization prioritizes the well-being and satisfaction of its employees, customers and communities at large. This type of business recognizes that people are at the heart of its success. It seeks to create an environment that fosters trust, confidence, empathy and meaningful connections. Pay attention to the human side of business. Employees, contractors, and partners are valued as individuals with unique talents and perspectives. Customers are treated as more than just transactions. The human side of business is just one piece of the puzzle. A human-centered business also extends its focus beyond its immediate stakeholders to the broader community. The business takes responsibility for its social and environmental impact, striving to make a positive difference.
Making and achieving goals is an important aspect of building confidence. Ironically, it takes confidence to set aspirational goals in the first place. Recognize one of the biggest hindrances to confidence is attention given to negative voices in our heads. Also increased preparation often brings actual knowledge and practice, along with perceptions of efficacy, ease, and control over the task for which one is prepared. Prepare, and build more confidence!
