The Power of Giving First: Brad Feld's Timeless Mentorship Philosophy

Brad Feld's "Give First" Philosophy

Brad Feld, a renowned entrepreneur and VC, has championed the "Give First" principle for decades. This approach isn't just about altruism; it's about fostering meaningful connections and opportunities without immediate expectations. Feld's journey from angel investing in the 1990s to co-founding Techstars and Foundry Group underscores the impact of this philosophy.

The Birth of "Give First"

The concept first appeared in Feld's 2012 book, Startup Communities, as "Give Before You Get." It emphasized the importance of contributing to a community without predefined returns. Over time, this idea evolved into his latest book, Give First, which delves deeper into mentorship and leadership.

Mentorship and Boundaries

Feld highlights the importance of boundaries to avoid burnout. He draws from Adam Grant's Give and Take, distinguishing between givers, takers, and traders. Successful mentorship, Feld argues, thrives on vulnerability and the willingness to say, "I don't know."

The Mentor-Mentee Dynamic

Feld believes mentorship isn't limited by age or experience. Anyone can be a mentor, and the best relationships evolve into peer learning. He shares insights from his long-standing mentorship with Rajat Bhargava, which began when Bhargava was just 21.

Navigating Uncertainty

In today's volatile tech landscape, Feld advises against extreme pronouncements. Instead, he advocates for hypothesis-driven thinking and data-backed mentorship. His book aims to stimulate reflection rather than prescribe answers.

Stepping Back from Venture

After decades in venture capital, Feld reflects on the transience of relevance. He and his wife, Amy, prioritize meaningful work over clinging to industry prominence.