Entrepreneur, author, and venture capitalist Brad Feld recently shared his insights on investing and the blockchain industry during an episode of the CoinGeek Weekly Livestream, hosted by Kurt Wuckert Jr. On June 17, 2025, Feld discussed the role of venture capital in emerging technologies and provided advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly those in the Web3 and blockchain sectors.
Brad Feld, renowned for co-founding Techstars and the Foundry Group, has been a pivotal figure in the startup ecosystem, investing in notable companies like Harmonix, Zynga, Fitbit, and Coinbase. Feld emphasized the importance of self-awareness for founders and investors, suggesting that understanding one’s passions and values is crucial for success. He noted that many individuals fail to undertake this personal exploration, which can lead to unfulfilling endeavors.
Addressing the blockchain space, Feld echoed a critical view, stating that much of the current investment is speculative rather than value-driven. He likened the situation to the Dot Com bubble, where significant capital was directed towards conceptually promising but ultimately impractical ideas. Feld predicted a similar reckoning in the cryptocurrency industry, where he observed a pervasive culture of trading “magic beans” and borderline religious adherence to various blockchain protocols.
Feld also highlighted the potential of on-chain data, describing it as a commodity that gains value with abundance. Blockchain technology, he argued, offers unprecedented transparency, allowing individuals to monetize their data footprints more effectively. However, he posed a rhetorical question about the current lack of transparency in the industry, suggesting that minimal financial incentives are used to maintain user engagement.
For Web3 founders seeking investment, Feld advised against traditional pitching tactics. Instead, he recommended showcasing genuine passion and obsession for their projects. According to Feld, investors are more likely to respond to authentic enthusiasm rather than rehearsed presentations. He further encouraged entrepreneurs to embrace failure as part of the journey, with the acknowledgment that many ventures may not succeed initially.
Feld’s insights offer a nuanced perspective on the challenges and opportunities within the venture capital and blockchain industries. His advice underscores the importance of personal alignment in entrepreneurial pursuits and the need for a long-term vision in navigating speculative markets. For further discussions on red flags in partnerships, Feld’s ‘Give First’ philosophy, and more, viewers are invited to watch the full livestream episode.
