Founders' Tales - Building Via AI and the Power of Networks, Velocity, and Storytelling

n this episode of Founders’ Tales, Chris Hopkins sits down with David Chang, serial entrepreneur, angel investor, and co-founder of Via AI. With more than twenty five years of startup experience, David shares lessons from building companies in Boston, being the first product manager at TripAdvisor, leading startups through acquisitions, and investing in over one hundred early stage companies.

David explains how Via AI was born from a simple but persistent business problem. When professionals ask who can introduce them to the right person or who knows someone at a specific company, there is no clear or reliable answer. Via AI is building software that helps go to market teams unlock warm introductions and activate their networks more effectively, especially during the earliest stages of building a business.

Throughout the conversation, David reflects on the importance of intentional velocity, strong relationships, and learning to navigate near death moments that often define early stage startups. He shares practical fundraising advice based on his ABC framework, which focuses on targeting the right investors, finding true believers, and creating momentum at the right moment.

David also offers insight into what investors look for at the pre seed and seed stages, how founders can improve their storytelling when pitching, and how to identify startup DNA when building teams. He closes by reflecting on the Boston startup ecosystem, explaining its strengths, its challenges, and how it can better support first time founders who are trying to break into established circles.

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