Ep 216 Building Your Tribe, Unleashing the Power of a Startup Wolfpack with Michael Devellano

The Silicon Valley Podcast

Building Your Tribe, Unleashing the Power of a Startup Wolfpack with Michael Devellano

Topic: Navigating the entrepreneurial journey, fostering strong communities, and leveraging the power of collaboration.

Intro:

• Introduce Michael and his background in startups, investment, and community building.
• Highlight his book, "Form Your Pack," as a guide for entrepreneurs to create and empower their own support networks.

Building Your Wolfpack:

• Discuss the core concept of the "Wolfpack" and why it's crucial for entrepreneurial success.
• Explore the book's goal of equipping listeners with tools and strategies to build their own powerful communities.

Cracking the Success Formula:

• Ask Michael to share his personal insights on the elusive formula for success in the business world.
• Delve into his unique perspective that goes beyond traditional "hustle" or "innovation."

Understanding Keiretsu:

• Briefly explain the history and unique structure of Keiretsu, a venture capital firm focused on community-driven decision-making.
• Analyze the pros and cons of this model for both entrepreneurs and investors.

YC Meets Wu-Tang Clan:

• Explore the surprising connection Michael draws between Y Combinator, the prestigious startup accelerator, and the legendary hip-hop group Wu-Tang Clan.
• Discuss the common threads of building strong communities and driving impact through collaboration.

Power of Public Building:

• Unpack the potential benefits and challenges of building your company "in public," as Michael advocates.
• Explore effective strategies for engaging communities and leveraging transparency for growth.

Behind the Board Ape Club:

• Share Michael's perspective on the phenomenal success of the Bored Ape Yacht Club, a community-driven NFT project.
• Analyze the key factors that contributed to its rise and the valuable lessons for other entrepreneurs.

Optimizing Your Wolfpack:

• Discuss ideal pack size and strategies for ensuring everyone contributes meaningfully.
• delve into the process of establishing a shared agenda and aligning individual goals with the pack's mission.

Beware the Dark Triad:

• Explain the concept of the "three dark triad" personalities (narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy) and their potential to harm a pack's dynamics.
• Offer tips for identifying and mitigating the negative impact of these individuals.

Embracing Wrong Decisions:

• Dive deeper into Michael's powerful quote about accepting the risk of making wrong decisions.
• Discuss the importance of failing forward and learning from mistakes in the entrepreneurial journey.

Connect with Michael:

(9) Michael Devellano | LinkedIn