
Tech Scenes Unplugged with Evan Walden CEO of Getro
"It's all about relationships." - Evan Walden
In this episode of Tech Scenes Unplugged, Jeff James Martin sits down with Evan Walden, CEO and Co-founder of Getro, to explore the power of warm introductions, networking, and the evolving role of platform teams in venture capital. Getro, a SaaS platform for VC firms, accelerators, and professional communities, helps organizations unlock hidden value in their networks by making high-value, double opt-in connections between companies and talent.
The conversation covers how Getro has evolved, the changing landscape of SaaS in the AI era, and how venture firms are differentiating themselves by focusing on networking and platform value. Evan also shares insights on scaling teams, the loneliness of leadership, and the importance of balancing focus and flexibility in business. The discussion wraps with a lighthearted look at music and creativity, highlighting the connection between jazz, improvisation, and entrepreneurship.
Key Takeaways:
Relationships drive success in venture capital and business.
Getro enhances networking for VC firms by enabling warm introductions.
The platform has evolved from job boards to a broader networking tool.
Warm introductions significantly improve conversion rates in hiring and sales.
AI is transforming SaaS, forcing companies to adapt to new models.
VC firms are shifting focus to platform roles to better support founders.
Building trust and reputation is critical for VCs to engage with startups.
Scaling teams requires leaders to shift from doing to delegating.
The CEO role can be isolating, making peer collaboration essential.
Creativity in business, like jazz, requires both structure and improvisation.
Chapters:
0:00 - Building Strong Relationships in Venture Capital
1:31 - Introduction to Getro and Its Evolution
6:20 - The Current Product Offering of Getro
10:08 - The Importance of Warm Introductions
12:39 - Leveraging Networks for Business Success
16:18 - The Future of SaaS and AI Integration
25:34 - Insights into Venture Capital Needs
28:11 - The Evolution of Platform Roles in VC Firms
31:34 - Building Trust and Reputation with Founders
34:31 - Strategies for Engaging with VC Firms
39:14 - The Challenges of Scaling Teams
46:18 - The Loneliness of the CEO Role
49:30 - The Desert Island Scenario: Music and Creativity
Resources:
Learn more about the book Peak Teams - Mastering the Habit of Unstoppable Venture-backed Companies - https://a.co/d/hp5Jtnu
Visit Collective Genius™ to Build Your Venture-backed Team with the Peak Operating System™ - https://www.collective-genius.com/
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Music by Andrew Applepie - https://soundcloud.com/andrewapplepie
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