Beyond The Job Title | Underrepresented Career Stories

A conversation with Jahn Karsybaev about venture capital, startups, entrepreneurship, becoming a master connector, fundraising, growing up in Kazakhstan, turning your background into an advantage, and much more.

• (00:00) - Intro | become a master connector in your space
• (03:15) - Venture capital misconceptions
• (04:46) - Why launch Big Sky Capital now
• (09:11) - Advice for founders looking to fundraise
• (11:04) - Pre-qualifying a Venture Capital firm
• (13:03) - Growing up in Kazakhstan shaping Jahn’s entrepreneurial DNA
• (16:24) - Breaking into tech
• (18:59) - Turning a yes into a no
• (21:28) - Building your network in 2023
• (26:14) - Overcoming imposter syndrome and turning your background into an advantage
• (29:11) - Evolving from an individual contributor into a leadership position
• (34:40) - Emerging trends in tech and SaaS
• (36:24) - Jahn’s recommended book
• (36:44) - Invest in yourself
• (38:23) - Jahn’s favorite quote
• (39:41) - Outro

Jahn Karsybaev is a former Technology Executive at Fortune 500 organizations. He is an experienced serial entrepreneur (2 exits) and angel investor. Currently, he is a Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Big Sky Capital - a $20M Fund investing in enterprise SaaS.

Jahn holds degrees from the University of Montana, NSU and Harvard Business School. He is the founder of Ivy Podcast where he interviews global executives (President of Microsoft, CEO of Deloitte).

Jahn is an experienced Board Director & Advisor, and currently serving on multiple company boards. His expertise in Technology & Fundraising has demonstrated proven track record with many global organizations.

Join Cesar Romero, as he shares the stories of trailblazing underrepresented SaaS founders, executives, and professionals who have broken barriers and achieved remarkable milestones. Whether you seek inspiration, mentorship, or actionable strategies to advance your career, our podcast is your go-to resource.

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