Investing in Frictionless Software: An Insider's View with Martin Tobias of Incisive VC

In this episode of Sound Investments, host Ed Parker chats with Martin Tobias, Managing Partner at Incisive VC. Tobias, a seasoned angel investor and startup founder, discusses his unique investing philosophy focused on B2B software that reduces friction at scale. Tobias recounts his journey from his early days at Microsoft to running his own VC firm and creating a successful angel syndicate. Key topics include the importance of founder-market fit, innovative distribution strategies, and identifying previously intractable problems now solvable through technology, particularly AI. Tobias also shares insights into several high-growth investments, the impact of AI on venture capital, and how the market is evolving post-2022 downturn. The discussion highlights emerging opportunities and the future of investing in the Pacific Northwest and beyond.

00:00 Introduction to Sound Investments

01:02 Meet Martin Tobias

03:58 The Birth of Incisive VC

06:30 Investing Philosophy and Principles

13:45 The Power of AI in Solving Old Problems

21:32 Investment Process

24:58 Building Moats

29:50 Data-Driven VC Market

34:53 Notable Investments and Success Stories

39:26 Future Outlook

42:21 Staying Informed

About Your Host

Ed Barker has enjoyed a weird and varied career. Ed is a Brit now resident in Seattle and has started three startups, enjoyed a long career in corporate strategy, and most recently was a VC. He's now building a podcast production company. Sound Investments is a small attempt to shine some light on the fantastic work being done in the Pac NW entrepreneurial community.

Martin Tobias, Incisive Ventures

Martin is the Managing Partner and Founder of Incisive, an early-stage venture capital firm focused on investing in the first institutional round of technology companies that reduce friction at scale. Previously Martin was a Venture Partner at Ignition Partners and an early investor in Google, Docusign, OpenSea, and over a dozen Unicorns. He's also a father to three daughters, a cyclist, surfer, poker player, life hacker and motorcycle tinkerer.

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