Behind the scenes, venture capital firms across the globe are transforming their thought leadership content strategy into audio and video formats. For the past two decades, firms have primarily produced blogs, white papers, and reports and curated events to share insight–but now, firms are moving towards the production of owned media.
Many of us remember a time when platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram was primarly text and photos. Since 2007, the spotlight has shifted toward video. YouTube, Apple, and Spotify now command 1.7 trillion views and downloads per day, controlling over 60% of consumer information. Even LinkedIn has followed in the footsteps of TikTok and Instagram by integrating video.
VCs are strapped for time and resources, making a high-end video production strategy might seem out of reach. Moreover, the past fours years have alicating their resources to raising funds and managing portfolio companies, leaving little room to think about—let alone execute—a thought leadership strategy.
But many early adopters are forging forward and adopting conversational, series-based content, that allows them to quickly repurpose their podcasts into traditional formats like blogs, white papers, and reports, all while reducing marketing costs. Additionally, 90% of leaders believe that co-creating thought leadership content strengthens relationships with clients and partners.
Our producers at Speakerbox Media compiled a list of 12 top venture capital firms using audio and video to drive their content engines and build authority.
Redpoint Ventures
The Logan Bartlett Show
Redpoint Ventures distinguishes itself with a distinctive approach on Instagram. Their profile reveals a focus on personal narratives, featuring video interviews with founders that delve into unconventional topics. For example, interviews might explore lighthearted questions, such as a founder’s “weirdest flex,” which adds a humorous touch while showcasing the personality behind the entrepreneurial journey.
While their content occasionally veers away from direct industry discussions, it effectively humanizes the venture capital experience. By highlighting the personal stories and unique perspectives of founders, Redpoint connects with their audience on a more intimate level.
Their content strategy also includes a dose of humor and a candid look at the VC world, which helps demystify the industry and make it more approachable. This approach not only entertains but also educates their audience, providing insights into the personalities and experiences behind the ventures they support.
A notable feature of Redpoint Ventures’ strategy is the prominent role played by Rashad Assir (@Corporayshid), a member of their content team. Rashad Assir’s presence and personal following have the potential to significantly amplify Redpoint’s reach and engagement. His individual brand and social media influence could help create a more personalized and relatable image for Redpoint Ventures, potentially bridging the gap between the firm and its audience.
In the context of their digital platforms, Redpoint Ventures utilize the demographic of young generations on X (formerly Twitter) by uploading relatable skits and content in their feed. Meanwhile, their LinkedIn profile feed provides the main space to showcase their business partners from the investors itself. Despite different strategies from their respective digital platforms, Redpoint maximizes its engagements and reach through analyzing which age demographics works well in said platforms.
Behind the scenes, venture capital firms across the globe are transforming their thought leadership content strategy into audio and video formats. For the past two decades, firms have primarily produced blogs, white papers, and reports and curated events to share insight–but now, firms are moving towards the production of owned media.
Many of us remember a time when platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram was primarly text and photos. Since 2007, the spotlight has shifted toward video. YouTube, Apple, and Spotify now command 1.7 trillion views and downloads per day, controlling over 60% of consumer information. Even LinkedIn has followed in the footsteps of TikTok and Instagram by integrating video.
VCs are strapped for time and resources, making a high-end video production strategy might seem out of reach. [“Insert Quote From VC”] Moreover, the past fours years have alicating their resources to raising funds and managing portfolio companies, leaving little room to think about—let alone execute—a thought leadership strategy.
But many early adopters are forging forward and adopting conversational, series-based content, that allows them to quickly repurpose their podcasts into traditional formats like blogs, white papers, and reports, all while reducing marketing costs. Additionally, 90% of leaders believe that co-creating thought leadership content strengthens relationships with clients and partners.
Our producers at Speakerbox Media compiled a list of 12 top venture capital firms using audio and video to drive their content engines and build authority.
Bessemer Venture Partners
Cloud Giants
Bessemer Venture Partners (BVP) is a long-established U.S. venture capital firm with offices globally. They focus on industries such as SaaS, cloud computing, and healthcare, and have a notable track record with investments in companies like LinkedIn, Shopify, and DocuSign.
Bessemer Venture Partners adeptly leverages a spectrum of digital platforms—including Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and LinkedIn—to distribute a diverse array of content tailored to each medium’s unique strengths.
On Instagram and TikTok, Bessemer Venture Partners takes a more nimble approach. They focus on creating short, engaging content that seamlessly combines educational material with entertainment value. By tapping into current trends, they enhance the relatability of their content and appeal to a broader audience. This strategy allows them to capture attention quickly and convey key messages in a way that resonates with users who prefer bite-sized, dynamic content.
Meanwhile, on X and LinkedIn, Bessemer Venture Partners helps to narrow the intended audience to similar businesses and entrepreneurs through detailed announcements regarding current business matters.
This strategy shares consistent advertisements regarding the current news, updates, and promotions around their industry, cloud and AI context, for instance.
It also presents as a platform to promote their podcast channel and other video materials from partners. Bessemer Venture Partners also offers a unique approach with their podcast channel “Wish I Knew”.
This podcast aims to highlight the success and “failure” stories of the biggest companies and businesses and how it changed for the better. Some focused on turning failures into successes, highlighting their significance for growth in a business setting—a crucial quality for emerging companies.
Since 2023, Bessemer Venture Partners has strategically shifted their content focus to prominently feature their employees. This move has created a more friendly and engaging atmosphere, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the people driving the firm. This human-centric approach has been met with positive feedback, reflecting an appreciation for the relatable and welcoming nature of their content.
One user praised the shift, noting the value of such accessible and explanatory videos, stating, “This is solid! Y’all should do more of these. As someone who’s been in the space for a while, this is second nature. Had I had easy videos like these helping explain these topics, life would be a lot easier!”
Y Combinator
Y Combinator
Visual consistency further strengthens Y Combinator’s content strategy. Each post adheres to a professional take, characterized by a cohesive color palette and design elements. This visual uniformity reinforces brand identity and enhances the credibility of their content, making their posts instantly recognizable and aligned with their overall brand image.
In addition to compelling storytelling and strong visual branding, Y Combinator excels in delivering educational content. They provide valuable insights, tips, and advice from industry experts and successful entrepreneurs, adding real value for their followers.
The inclusion of quotes and excerpts from interviews or talks adds layers of authenticity and authority to their posts, enriching the educational aspect of their content.
For example, their technique of posing thought-provoking questions in graphics and captions—such as “Are we in an AI hype cycle?”—stimulates discussion and prompts viewers to share their opinions.
One commenter reflected on this by noting, “The underlying technology has some clout. But the market seems oversaturated with AI apps that are just API calls to OpenAI.” Such interactions demonstrate the effectiveness of Y Combinator’s content strategy in driving meaningful engagement and fostering a vibrant dialogue within the startup community.
Their YouTube strategy complements this by employing intriguing video titles and clear, accessible language. Videos are not merely talking heads but are enhanced with relevant graphics that align with the discussion topics, boosting viewer engagement.
Additionally, their content on X and LinkedIn actively promotes their partner companies. One of their edge among other VC firms relies on their consistent promotions through the mentioned digital platforms. This provides a nice impression of their strength in constant promotion and advertisement for their partners.
Their podcast channel, “The Y Combinator Startup Podcast,” consists of short but educational discussions regarding typical situations and challenges around the business perspective. An important aspect of this podcast is the short duration compared to similar channels. This entails a direct and concise discussion that entrepreneurs and enthusiasts can grasp easily.
In addition to compelling storytelling and strong visual branding, Y Combinator excels in delivering educational content. They provide valuable insights, tips, and advice from industry experts and successful entrepreneurs, adding real value for their followers. The inclusion of quotes and excerpts from interviews or talks adds layers of authenticity and authority to their posts, enriching the educational aspect of their content.
Sequoia Capital
Crucible Moments
Sequoia Capital excels in curating content for their YouTube channel, which is distinguished by its rich assortment of videos. Their channel features in-depth series such as “Crucible Moments” and “Training Data,” which delve into technology and industry dynamics. These podcasts go beyond mere information, offering profound insights through conversations with a carefully selected group of successful entrepreneurs and experienced investors. The immersive and conversational format of these series facilitates a deep exploration of complex technological advancements and market trends, serving as a valuable resource for both tech enthusiasts and industry professionals.
Additionally, Sequoia Capital includes footage from their internal sessions, often focusing on AI-related topics. These segments, which resemble tutorials, provide viewers with direct and accessible insights into cutting-edge technology and its implications. This approach not only enriches their content offering but also enhances the educational value available to their audience.
In their social media strategies, Sequoia Capital’s X and LinkedIn actively spotlight their partners through content. A key approach involves leveraging anecdotes from entrepreneurs who share their personal business journeys. This method provides audiences and potential clients with insight into the firm’s capabilities through the experiences of its partners.
Their podcast, “Crucible Moments,” serves as a primary platform for sharing stories and pivotal experiences of business personalities in the online space. This format highlights professionalism and success, offering a diverse showcase of partners and illustrating the broad capabilities of Sequoia Capital.
500 Global
Rise of the Next
500 Global operates in over 20 countries, focusing on fast-growing tech companies that drive economic growth through innovation and capital.
The firm supports a diversified portfolio of over 5,000 founders and 2,800 companies, with more than 35 valued at over $1 billion, leveraging a global team of over 190 members with extensive industry experience.
The firm supports a diversified portfolio of over 5,000 founders and 2,800 companies, with more than 35 valued at over $1 billion, leveraging a global team of over 190 members with extensive industry experience.
500 Global operates in over 20 countries, focusing on fast-growing tech companies that drive economic growth through innovation and capital. The firm supports a diversified portfolio of over 5,000 founders and 2,800 companies, with more than 35 valued at over $1 billion, leveraging a global team of over 190 members with extensive industry experience.
The firm highlights founder stories and success narratives through video interviews, testimonials, and high-quality images that showcase the entrepreneurial journeys and achievements of startups.
They also collaborate with these startups for joint posts, further amplifying their impact.
500 Global operates in over 20 countries, focusing on fast-growing tech companies that drive economic growth through innovation and capital. The firm supports a diversified portfolio of over 5,000 founders and 2,800 companies, with more than 35 valued at over $1 billion, leveraging a global team of over 190 members with extensive industry experience.
The firm also makes strategic use of event highlights, offering recaps, live streams, and behind-the-scenes glimpses from major industry events such as conferences. This approach not only underscores 500 Global’s active involvement in the startup ecosystem but also generates excitement for future events.
By showcasing the successes and atmosphere of past events, they cultivate a sense of urgency and anticipation among their audience, encouraging increased participation and engagement.
Their X and LinkedIn provide various content, ranging from promotions to personal experiences by their business partners. Additionally, these platforms realistically show the personal perspectives of VCs. With this strategy, it enlightens interested companies and businesses on witnessing different dimensions of the firm as an investor, thus enabling these companies to explore the firm thoroughly.
The 500 Global Podcast, known also as “Rise of the Next”, introduces various business personalities sharing the innovation within their expertise. The channel also gives light to innovative marvels from distinct regions around the globe. With half-hour episodes, it gives light for inspiration regarding the advancements of technological businesses.
Bessemer Ventures
Rise of the Next
Visual consistency further strengthens Y Combinator’s content strategy. Each post adheres to a professional take, characterized by a cohesive color palette and design elements.
This visual uniformity reinforces brand identity and enhances the credibility of their content, making their posts instantly recognizable and aligned with their overall brand image.
In addition to compelling storytelling and strong visual branding, Y Combinator excels in delivering educational content.
They provide valuable insights, tips, and advice from industry experts and successful entrepreneurs, adding real value for their followers. The inclusion of quotes and excerpts from interviews or talks adds layers of authenticity and authority to their posts, enriching the educational aspect of their content.
They provide valuable insights, tips, and advice from industry experts and successful entrepreneurs, adding real value for their followers. The inclusion of quotes and excerpts from interviews or talks adds layers of authenticity and authority to their posts, enriching the educational aspect of their content.
Rise of the Next
a16z
a16z
Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) has crafted a distinctive content strategy centered around their concept of “Little Tech,” which highlights innovative tech startups. Through expert interviews and in-depth industry analyses, a16z not only showcases their expertise in emerging trends but also elevates these pioneering startups, increasing their visibility and market presence. They provide valuable insights, tips, and advice from industry experts and successful entrepreneurs, adding real value for their followers. The inclusion of quotes and excerpts from interviews or talks adds layers of authenticity and authority to their posts, enriching the educational aspect of their content.
They are known to create diverse content strategies encompassing various formats and platforms; podcast, video, books, events, and such, reflecting a16z’s broad reach and influence.
In terms of video content, a16z’s YouTube channel has amassed over 135,000 subscribers, underscoring their substantial digital presence and influence.
The a16z Podcast, a flagship offering, is a significant component of their content ecosystem. With hundreds of episodes, it consistently ranks within the top 20 tech podcasts across major Western markets, according to Chartable, and has garnered over thousands of reviews. This podcast brings together founders, contributors, investors, and thought leaders to share knowledge, foster connections, and explore tech topics in depth.
Google Ventures
Rise of the Next
Google Ventures, now GV, was founded in 2009 to support early-stage startups with a range of expert resources, including design, diversity, and engineering, while leveraging Google’s technology and talent.
Their Instagram strategy exemplifies visual communication, featuring compelling imagery that clearly conveys each message and reinforces their brand identity.
The consistency in design and the strategic use of captions and hashtags enhance visibility and engagement, making their posts instantly recognizable.
GV excels in celebrating successes by highlighting new products and ventures with a clean and comprehensive content strategy. Their approach ensures that each piece of content is thoughtfully curated and effectively showcases milestones and achievements.
GV’s Instagram Reels are also particularly noteworthy, offering in-depth insights into investment trends and startup growth strategies, all while maintaining alignment with GV’s branding. These well-produced videos provide valuable guidance and inspiration for entrepreneurs, showcasing GV’s dedication to both professionalism and excellence in content creation.
GV’s presence on X and LinkedIn strengthens its online branding with a unique approach. On X the company maintains a balance between a personal, relatable tone and professional standards.
a16z
The a16z Podcast
Sequoia Capital excels in curating content for their YouTube channel, which is distinguished by its rich assortment of videos.
Their channel features in-depth series such as “Crucible Moments” and “Training Data,” which delve into technology and industry dynamics.
These podcasts go beyond mere information, offering profound insights through conversations with a carefully selected group of successful entrepreneurs and experienced investors. The immersive and conversational format of these series facilitates a deep exploration of complex technological advancements and market trends, serving as a valuable resource for both tech enthusiasts and industry professionals.
They provide valuable insights, tips, and advice from industry experts and successful entrepreneurs, adding real value for their followers. The inclusion of quotes and excerpts from interviews or talks adds layers of authenticity and authority to their posts, enriching the educational aspect of their content.
They provide valuable insights, tips, and advice from industry experts and successful entrepreneurs, adding real value for their followers. The inclusion of quotes and excerpts from interviews or talks adds layers of authenticity and authority to their posts, enriching the educational aspect of their content.
Mercury Fund
Go Slow to Grow Fast: a podcast for startups
Mercury Fund offers a top-notch approach to supporting first-time entrepreneurs and software start-ups through its venture capital framework. The firm meticulously evaluates each business to refine and enhance aspects that align with market needs. This method reflects their mantra, “go slow to grow fast,” emphasizing a careful move to addressing early-stage challenges.
Mercury Fund’s content on X and LinkedIn features a blend of celebrating investor achievements and promoting business partners. This creates an impression of Mercury Fund as a goal-oriented firm that aligns well with its brand.
Their online presence is complemented by their podcast, “Go Slow to Grow Fast,” which highlights their core mantra. The podcast features insights from Mercury Fund’s investors and various experts, offering advice on overcoming the struggles of building a start-up. By maintaining a consistent theme with their investment philosophy, the podcast enhances the firm’s credibility and showcases the success behind their unique approach.
Lightspeed
Rise of the Next
Lightspeed often features interviews with portfolio company founders, focusing on their journeys and the challenges they’ve overcome, particularly in the realm of AI technology. These snippets are frequently derived from their podcast, Generative Now, which explores today’s most exciting AI ventures. The visuals and content are designed to captivate and inform, maintaining a professional yet approachable tone.
Lightspeed’s YouTube channel, on the other hand, dives deeper into the world of venture capital and entrepreneurship. The channel boasts a variety of content, including interviews, panel discussions, and explainer videos. The “Founder Stories” series is a standout, offering a close-up look at the lives of entrepreneurs who have collaborated with Lightspeed. These videos are rich with personal anecdotes and practical advice, providing viewers with a nuanced understanding of the entrepreneurial journey.
What distinguishes Lightspeed is their ability to blend information with emotional resonance. They go beyond discussing financial successes, instead revealing the human side of venture capital through real stories and personal experiences. Their strategic use of thumbnails, titles, and descriptions further enhances the discoverability and impact of their content, making it a go-to resource for those interested in venture capital insights.
Inspired Capital
Rise of the Next
Inspired Capital, particularly their Instagram feed, offers a spirited portrayal of their investment ethos and celebrates their portfolio companies with a sharp flair. Their content is a tapestry of media mentions and highlights of founder achievements, presenting a comprehensive view of their impact in the venture capital terrain. They provide valuable insights, tips, and advice from industry experts and successful entrepreneurs, adding real value for their followers. The inclusion of quotes and excerpts from interviews or talks adds layers of authenticity and authority to their posts, enriching the educational aspect of their content.
Inspired Capital demonstrates robust support and trust for its partners, both established and new. On X, the firm engages with its team, while on LinkedIn, it announces partnerships, prioritizing engagement and maintaining professionalism.
A notable strength of Inspired Capital lies in its podcasts. “Inc. for Starters” explores entrepreneurs’ journeys to top, while “Inspired in 15” offers insights into major ideas and future trends in under 15 minutes. These diverse podcasts distinguish Inspired Capital from other VC firms without compromising quality.
Their infographics are designed with high aesthetic standards, ensuring complex data is presented clearly and is accessible to a broad audience. This approach highlights Inspired Capital’s expertise and enhances its profile as a knowledgeable and insightful venture capital firm. Their Instagram feed acts as a dynamic portfolio, reflecting their investment philosophy, celebrating partner successes, and providing valuable industry insights.
Kleiner Perkins
Grit Podcast
Kleiner Perkins’ YouTube channel features a series of high-quality interviews with industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and investors. These discussions provide deep dives into market trends, investment strategies, and the entrepreneurial journeys of notable figures.
The channel has a consistent posting schedule, which keeps the audience engaged and builds anticipation for new content. Recently, the inclusion of interviews marks a shift from their previous reliance on audio-based content, adding brand new touch to their offerings.
Mercury Fund offers a top-notch approach to supporting first-time entrepreneurs and software start-ups through its venture capital framework. The firm meticulously evaluates each business to refine and enhance aspects that align with market needs. This method reflects their mantra, “go slow to grow fast,” emphasizing a careful move to addressing early-stage challenges.
Kleiner Perkins employs consistent retweeting strategies to keep their audience informed and engaged. By sharing relevant content and engaging with their followers, they foster a continuous dialogue and maintain a strong connection with their community.
Kleiner Perkins also continues this strategy on LinkedIn with reposts of investors and other partners. Following this technique enables Kleiner Perkins to show their work and achievements through their tested and trusted clients. This approach gives the VC firm a silent approach yet shows promising results for the audience and interested start-up companies.
Not only that, Kleiner Perkins also seizes its platform through their podcast entitled “Grit”. This channel aims to identify the stories and secrets behind building world-class organizations. Through hour-long sessions and episodes, it secures Kleiner Perkins as a firm provider of the spotlight in its partners, letting their connections speak for its own success.
Sarah Smith
Principal Strategist, Managing Partner, Speakerbox Media
Clari Garci
Associate Producer,
Speakerbox Media
