Threshold

about the podcast

The Startup Solution with Heidi Roizen

The Startup Solution tackles the make-or-break situations that entrepreneurs face, offering clear advice on how to survive and thrive in an early-stage company. Who’s it for? Founders, startup execs, and investors who want to learn from real-world situations, unpacked by Heidi Roizen, a “recovering" entrepreneur and current VC who has seen it all through 40 years and 40 boards.

Announcing Ask Heidi AI (Beta Version)

The Ask Heidi AI has been trained on all The Startup Solution podcast episodes, plus Heidi’s other words of wisdom in her blog posts, speeches, and online interviews. While the AI’s answers aren’t always perfect, they should contain some solid points to consider, links to the episodes, and other references that will provide you with the most relevant information.

Ask Heidi CHAT Ask Heidi Search

Episodes

Apr 24, 2025

SEASON 4

EPISODE 8

Understanding Your Investor’s Zone of Indifference

Founders need to understand investor priorities before they require investor action. The investor’s ‘zone of indifference’ describes an issue that can be problematic. In this episode, Heidi explains what it is, when it comes into play, and how to identify the likelihood of an investor landing in the ‘zone of indifference.'

Mar 20, 2025

SEASON 4

EPISODE 7

The Art of the Cold Email

Mastering cold emails is a superpower—one that can unlock dream investors, top-tier hires, and world-class mentors. The most successful founders craft messages that break through the noise and create opportunities. In this episode, Heidi shares the proven strategies she teaches at the Stanford Graduate School of Business to help you master the art of impactful outreach.

Feb 21, 2025

SEASON 4

EPISODE 6

The Case of the Elusive Earnout

If you’re considering an earnout, you should know exactly what is involved to set expectations – and to give yourself the highest chance of it amounting to something. Heidi presents recent market data along with her firsthand experience to help you understand why earnouts are so challenging.

Jan 23, 2025

SEASON 4

EPISODE 5

How to be a Great Mentee

Successful entrepreneurs seek out mentors to positively impact their careers. But how do they find a mentor, initiate contact, and build a relationship? As an experienced mentor and mentee, Heidi believes all these questions can be answered by following her tips on becoming a great mentee.

Jan 9, 2025

SEASON 4

EPISODE 4

The Case of the Venture Debt Dilemma

All entrepreneurs should understand what venture debt is so they can make an informed decision to take it or not. Heidi poses a series of questions and scenarios to help founders know whether it’s a good option for their company. And if it is, how to set it up and use it.

Dec 5, 2024

SEASON 4

EPISODE 3

The Best Entrepreneurs are Great at Business

Many entrepreneurs start companies to solve a big problem or apply innovative technology, or both. But when they fail, it’s typically the result of a business issue. Heidi has observed that founders usually run out of money because they didn’t pay close enough attention to running the company. Here, she shares practical advice to help entrepreneurs become great at business.

Nov 22, 2024

SEASON 4

EPISODE 2

Six-Word Operating Manual for Entrepreneurs

When the world is uncertain, it is especially challenging for an entrepreneur to steer their company forward. Heidi’s six-word operating manual helps founders face the unknown and lead. Caution: Heidi’s operating manual may sound simple, but executing it takes grit and leadership.

Nov 7, 2024

SEASON 4

EPISODE 1

The Case of the Shareholder Shenanigans

Shareholder voting rights are an essential element of the many crucial decisions made in a company. For example, they may come into play during a fundraise or M&A. In this episode, Heidi explains what shareholder voting rights are so you can be well-informed and avoid messy situations in the future.