David Hornik

David Hornik, founder of Lobby Capital and veteran VC with 25+ years, prioritizes ethics and reputation in investing. He discusses why backing unflinchingly ethical founders matters. He explains power-law outcomes, how a few winners define careers, and why reputation and relationships compound over time. He also covers the role of emotional intelligence, selective giving, and rigorous founder diligence.

David Hornik, Founding Partner at Lobby Capital, delves into the exciting world of AI-focused startups. He discusses the appeal of ultralight ventures and how entrepreneurs can prioritize profits over funding. The conversation touches on AI's dual role: simplifying processes while complicating marketing dynamics. Hornik also explores the importance of adapting expertise in fields like drug discovery and highlights the transformative potential of agentic AI in e-commerce, merging technology with traditional business roles.

David Hornik, founding partner at Lobby Capital, brings over 25 years of venture capital experience to the table. He discusses his surprising transition from law to VC and the serendipity behind early successes, including Splunk’s massive acquisition. David emphasizes the art of networking through his Lobby Conference, cultivating meaningful connections. He reflects on his biggest wins and missed opportunities—like Facebook and Uber—while revealing how psychological insights and emotional intelligence play vital roles in assessing startup founders.

David Hornik, founding partner at Lobby Capital and a champion of the 'give first' approach, discusses his relationship-driven career in venture capital. He emphasizes how generosity compounds over time and the importance of trust in building lasting networks. The conversation highlights the origins of the Lobby conference and his connection to Adam Grant's work. David shares insights on balancing economic success with a kind, candid approach to challenges, showcasing how a give-first mindset shapes his interactions with founders and the community.

David Hornik, a venture capitalist known for his generous investing style, discusses why givers ultimately win in business. He emphasizes the importance of storytelling for entrepreneurs and shares his belief that investors should prioritize people over ideas. Hornik recounts a soccer game moment that led to a significant partnership and argues against the misconception that being nice is a weakness. He also reflects on handling big losses, the significance of trust in venture capital, and the unique format of his annual conference, The Lobby, designed for genuine connections.