No.

I've received countless "nos" in my time as both founder and GP—and given more than my fair share. But when a founder I'd turned down twice invested in me, I couldn’t help but pause and reflect.

As a founder and now an investor through my venture studio fund, I’m familiar with the word, No. I’ve sat on both the receiving and giving sides. This week, two remarkable incidents reminded me of the impact and power of nos. Nos are depressing, fact. However, we can give or receive nos in ways that generate positive energy and outlook.

The Founder Who…