Partner Path
Partner Path is a podcast exploring the venture capital and startup ecosystem through a younger perspective. We feature candid conversations with early-stage founders, operators, and emerging investors—offering insight into everything from sourcing and investment strategies to product execution and go-to-market lessons. Whether you’re an aspiring investor, founder, or just curious about VC, tune in for an inside look at the industry.
Partner Path
E21: The Midwest Momentum with Victor Gutwein (M25)
We are excited to sit down with Victor Guwein, founder and managing partner at M25. Victor started his career as a founder of a scooter company, Scooter Versity. At 23, Victor founded M25 to invest solely in the Midwest. Fast forward 8 years, and M25 has invested in over 130 companies and is now investing out of its third fund. Victor discusses why the Midwest is ripe for disruption, the M25 DNA, valuations shifting with market dynamics, and how to win at the pre-seed / seed stage.
Episode Chapters:
- Starting a Scooter Company - 1:20
- Starting a Venture Fund (@ 23) - 3:06
- Building a Track Record - 7:48
- How VCs make Money - 10:32
- The M25 Sourcing DNA - 14:10
- Objectivity with Decision Making - 16:50
- The Importance of Entry Valuations - 20:00
- Interest Rates Impact on Valuations - 24:08
- Coastal Investors moving Central - 27:32
- Advice to Emerging Managers - 30:11
- Ending Questions - 31:45
As always, feel free to contact us at partnerpathpodcast@gmail.com. We would love to hear ideas for content, guests, and overall feedback.