Exothermic energy—that’s what I call the type of energy that inspires and unites, and it’s exactly what I look for in founders. As a founder, your ability to excite investors, clients, and teams is critical. It’s simple: if I leave a conversation with you feeling more energized than when I walked in, I know you have what it takes.

I also value those who combine speed with reflection—those who move fast, take decisive action, and consistently seek feedback. The ones who can push the tempo while asking, “How can I improve?” at the end of the week are the ones who stand out.

From my experience as an entrepreneur and working alongside founders, I’ve learned that entrepreneurship is an all-encompassing journey. While it may offer more flexibility than the gruelling careers of investment banking or consulting—making it possible to balance being a parent—it still demands a profound level of commitment. I look for founders who not only understand this intensity but are fully prepared to embrace it.