Josh Kopelman

Josh Kopelman

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First Round Capital founder; early-stage investing and founder lessons.

Startup Product Thrills, Company Building Feels Terrifying
SocialApr 28, 2026

Startup Product Thrills, Company Building Feels Terrifying

Overheard from a founder today: It is the most exciting time to ever build a product as a startup It is the most existentially unnerving time to build a company

By Josh Kopelman
Hiring at AI Speed: Artemis Secures Talent in 48 Hours
SocialApr 21, 2026

Hiring at AI Speed: Artemis Secures Talent in 48 Hours

Shachar Hirshberg and Dan Shiebler make offers to new hires within 48 hours of their first conversation. They’re building an AI-native security company, Artemis Security, that battles threats that move at machine speed (which, for AI-driven attacks, is often in seconds)....

By Josh Kopelman
Skip Empathy Theater; Investors Should Give Blunt, Actionable Advice
SocialApr 21, 2026

Skip Empathy Theater; Investors Should Give Blunt, Actionable Advice

Was just reminded of this classic video this week. Many VCs specialize in empathy theater. Nodding along. Telling founders what they want to hear. I’m more of a “hey… there’s a nail in your head” investor -- and then I...

By Josh Kopelman
2026: First SAFE to Convert at 20% Premium
SocialFeb 20, 2026

2026: First SAFE to Convert at 20% Premium

Calling it now: 2026 will bring the first SAFE that converts at a 20% PREMIUM to the next round. We’ve officially reached that part of the cycle.

By Josh Kopelman