RiskReversal Pod Why VCs Are Finally Bullish Again with Rick Heitzmann & Jesse Chasse | Okay, Computer.
Jan 14, 2026
Rick Heitzmann, co-founder of FirstMark Capital with a rich background in early-stage tech investments, and Jesse Chasse, head of tech equity capital markets at RBC, discuss a revival in VC optimism for 2026. They explore how AI startups are disrupting traditional SaaS models and why most venture returns come from public markets. The duo delves into the factors behind successful IPOs, the shift toward AI-driven business models, and the resurgence of M&A, marking a transformative time for tech investment.
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Early Prediction: Pinterest Took Time
- Dan recalled meeting Rick in 2013 after Twitter's IPO and discussing Pinterest as a likely public candidate.
- Pinterest took four more years to IPO, illustrating long, unpredictable private-to-public timelines.
Spreadsheets Didn’t Kill Jobs
- Rick shared how spreadsheets once replaced manual accounting tasks, yet legal and finance headcounts grew over decades.
- He uses this to argue AI will reshape roles but likely increase higher-level job opportunities over time.
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