re the funding stuff - i think there's real value in applying your taste to where you say Yes, not just the pedigree of the founders or quality of investors. That is, treat it as your venture fund, where instead of deploying capital, you're deploying coverage. Too many outlets are either 'default yes' to everything or only want to cover if it's YC/a16z/ex-OpenAI/etc.
i'd also really value short follow-ups on who you cover - that is, 12/24 months later - do a check-in - what's working/not working/etc. i think that is so lacking today and really interesting (at least to me).
Just want to check in and see if you thought of offering actual resources for founders and not just covering funding rounds and the like. I realize you have a particular area of expertise and experience, but if a good portion of your audience are actual Founders or builders this might be a thing to consider.
Timely question, as one of our resolutions was about being more selective in our funding round coverage.
We can definitely do more to be tactically helpful for builders — our stories that take you inside how companies like Gamma and Cursor have built their businesses seem to be appreciated.
At the same time, Upstarts is a news site, not trying to compete with @Lenny Rachitsky, @Elena Verna or other great writers focused on product, growth etc. from a practitioner’s mindset.
My hope is that Upstarts is a trusted and welcome destination for news and stories about the startup ecosystem, with a helpful lesson, stat or insight in each post. I’m sure I can improve the balance there!
Lol “we have conversations with our own brand’s social media accounts”
Who won the arguments?!?
I can tell you it is usually not me
Loved this, Alex! Thank you!!
Relieved to find out just now that Natalie's Oura ring gift was on trend!
Thanks for the shout, Alex !!
Hope Natalie passed along that I saw a woman watching your Instagram Reels on the subway a few weeks ago... celebrity moment!
She did!! That is so 🥰🥰🥲. Need an Alex & Nat catch up in 2026.
Love the reflections and goals for 2026
re the funding stuff - i think there's real value in applying your taste to where you say Yes, not just the pedigree of the founders or quality of investors. That is, treat it as your venture fund, where instead of deploying capital, you're deploying coverage. Too many outlets are either 'default yes' to everything or only want to cover if it's YC/a16z/ex-OpenAI/etc.
i'd also really value short follow-ups on who you cover - that is, 12/24 months later - do a check-in - what's working/not working/etc. i think that is so lacking today and really interesting (at least to me).
Congrats on an epic year, Alex!
Great recap, Alex! Honestly, “more bangers and more fun” is good advice for just about everyone.
Thanks, John! Manifesting that energy for all of us next year :)
Just want to check in and see if you thought of offering actual resources for founders and not just covering funding rounds and the like. I realize you have a particular area of expertise and experience, but if a good portion of your audience are actual Founders or builders this might be a thing to consider.
Timely question, as one of our resolutions was about being more selective in our funding round coverage.
We can definitely do more to be tactically helpful for builders — our stories that take you inside how companies like Gamma and Cursor have built their businesses seem to be appreciated.
At the same time, Upstarts is a news site, not trying to compete with @Lenny Rachitsky, @Elena Verna or other great writers focused on product, growth etc. from a practitioner’s mindset.
My hope is that Upstarts is a trusted and welcome destination for news and stories about the startup ecosystem, with a helpful lesson, stat or insight in each post. I’m sure I can improve the balance there!