From a $6M proof-of-concept to a $52.9M institutional fund, Samara Hernandez shares how she built Chingona Ventures and why going earlier and backing overlooked founders is her edge.
View episode![[Members Podcast] From $6M to $50M: A Resilient Solo GP’s Playbook for Differentiation & Scale with Samara Hernandez of Chingona Ventures](/content/images/size/w640/format/webp/2025/08/Samara-Hernandez--Chingona-Ventures---VC-Mastermind-1.png)
Melissa Richlen of MacArthur Foundation shares what institutional LPs look for in VC managers, how she evaluates pitches, and red flags that kill a raise. Essential listening for GPs preparing to raise from top-tier LPs in today’s market.
View episode![[Members Podcast] What LPs Really Look For: Fundraising, Red Flags, and Long-Term Partnerships with Melissa Richlen of MacArthur Foundation](/content/images/size/w640/format/webp/2025/07/Melissa-Richlen--MacArthur-Foundation---VC-Mastermind-1.png)
![[Members Podcast] From Solo GP to Institutional VC: Learnings from Building a Thematic-Focused Firm with Dan Rosen of Commerce Ventures](/content/images/size/w640/format/webp/2025/05/VC-Mastermind-Podcast-THISONE.psd--3--3.png)
Dan Rosen shares how he scaled Commerce Ventures from a solo GP to an institutional firm by staying disciplined on thematic focus—rooted in mobility, payments, and fintech—and why team depth, constant thesis development, and liquidity readiness are critical for long-term success.
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Chirag Locham shares how Middle East LPs assess VC funds, the power of referrals, and how most GPs fail to explain portfolio construction. A must-listen for GPs building lasting LP relationships in the Middle East.
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