Decoding Angel Investing: Insights from GitHub's Growth Director, Chiedo John

The Angel with Michael Conniff

Summary

In this episode, Chiedo John, Director of Growth at GitHub and active angel investor shares his journey and insights into angel investing. He discusses his background in startups and entrepreneurship, the challenges of running a web development consultancy, and his role at GitHub. Chiedo also explains his criteria for investing in startups, including the importance of a burning problem and high problem frequency. He shares his experience investing in AI startups and the circular economy's potential. Chiedo discusses his plans to launch a venture fund and the opportunities it will provide. He offers advice for aspiring angel investors, including joining syndicates and angel groups, and recommends resources for learning more about angel investing.

Takeaways

• Angel investors should look for startups that solve burning problems with high problem frequency.
• Investing at the MVP stage allows a better evaluation of a startup's potential.
• Joining syndicates and angel groups can provide access to deals and opportunities for learning.
• Launching a venture fund allows for larger investments and a more focused investment thesis.
• Aspiring angel investors should read books, listen to podcasts, and learn from experienced investors.

  Chapters
  00:00
  Introduction and Background
  01:15
  Chado's Journey as an Angel Investor
  03:16
  Challenges of Running a Web Development Consultancy
  05:26
  Chado's Role at GitHub and its Relation to Investing
  06:38
  Investing in AI Startups
  07:09
  Criteria for Investing in Startups
  08:50
  Ticket Size and Collaborative Investing
  09:35
  Investing at the MVP Stage
  10:06
  Getting Started as an Angel Investor
  17:01
  Launching a Venture Fund
  20:56
  Building an Entrepreneurial Ecosystem
  21:31
  Exciting Startups Chado Has Invested In
  28:13
  Advice for Aspiring Angel Investors
  29:44
  Closing Remarks