Threshold

about the podcast

The Startup Solution with Heidi Roizen

The Startup Solution tackles the make-or-break situations that entrepreneurs face, offering clear advice on how to survive and thrive in an early-stage company. Who’s it for? Founders, startup execs, and investors who want to learn from real-world situations, unpacked by Heidi Roizen, a “recovering" entrepreneur and current VC who has seen it all through 40 years and 40 boards.

OUR HOST

Heidi Roizen

Heidi Roizen has spent 40 years in the tech startup world, the first dozen years as an entrepreneur herself, and since then, 25 years as a venture capitalist. She’s served on over 40 boards, from seed stage to public companies. She also co-leads the Threshold Venture Fellows program at Stanford University and is a partner at Threshold Ventures.

Episodes

Jan 23, 2025

SEASON 4

EPISODE 5

How to be a Great Mentee

Successful entrepreneurs seek out mentors to positively impact their careers. But how do they find a mentor, initiate contact, and build a relationship? As an experienced mentor and mentee, Heidi believes all these questions can be answered by following her tips on becoming a great mentee.

Jan 9, 2025

SEASON 4

EPISODE 4

The Case of the Venture Debt Dilemma

All entrepreneurs should understand what venture debt is so they can make an informed decision to take it or not. Heidi poses a series of questions and scenarios to help founders know whether it’s a good option for their company. And if it is, how to set it up and use it.

Dec 5, 2024

SEASON 4

EPISODE 3

The Best Entrepreneurs are Great at Business

Many entrepreneurs start companies to solve a big problem or apply innovative technology, or both. But when they fail, it’s typically the result of a business issue. Heidi has observed that founders usually run out of money because they didn’t pay close enough attention to running the company. Here, she shares practical advice to help entrepreneurs become great at business.

Nov 22, 2024

SEASON 4

EPISODE 2

Six-Word Operating Manual for Entrepreneurs

When the world is uncertain, it is especially challenging for an entrepreneur to steer their company forward. Heidi’s six-word operating manual helps founders face the unknown and lead. Caution: Heidi’s operating manual may sound simple, but executing it takes grit and leadership.

Nov 7, 2024

SEASON 4

EPISODE 1

The Case of the Shareholder Shenanigans

Shareholder voting rights are an essential element of the many crucial decisions made in a company. For example, they may come into play during a fundraise or M&A. In this episode, Heidi explains what shareholder voting rights are so you can be well-informed and avoid messy situations in the future.