James Currier is a serial entrepreneur, founding partner at NFX, and a father of 4 boys. Known for his sharp insights into human behavior and startup dynamics, James brings that same clarity and intention to his parenting. He’s not just raising kids, he’s cultivating creators, adventurers, and independent thinkers.

In this episode, James shares how he designed his family life with the same care and foresight as he would a startup. From helping his son sail solo across the Atlantic at 16, to building secret passageways in their home, James offers a deeply personal and practical look into parenting with purpose. We discussed:

• Parenting with realism and intention: James explains why he doesn’t take too much credit as a parent, and how genetics, not just parenting techniques, shape a child’s destiny. Parenting inevitably includes heartbreak, so embrace the ride without trying to control every outcome.
• Fostering entrepreneurship and self-reliance: James never gave allowances. Instead, he paid his kids a dollar for every new business idea and had them pitch startup concepts at the dinner table.
• Adventure and risk as tools for growth: Rather than shielding his kids from danger, James leaned into it. He saw risk as a necessary ingredient for confidence. His boys climbed 80-foot trees, explored Burning Man, and one even became the youngest person to sail solo across the Atlantic. The goal? Face the wild and learn who you are.
• The seven-to-one rule for feedback: James shares a powerful framework for encouraging positive behavior. For every one piece of correction, offer seven moments of genuine, specific positive reinforcement. It works for parenting and leadership.
• On technology, phones, and the limits of control: Despite thoughtful efforts, James admits that his kids were guinea pigs for the smartphone era. He reflects honestly on what worked, what didn’t, and why he believes delaying access to tech, and encouraging real-world adventure is more important than ever.

Where to find James Currier

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamescurrier/
• X: https://x.com/jamescurrier

Where to find Adam Fishman

• FishmanAF Newsletter: www.FishmanAFNewsletter.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjfishman/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/startupdadpod/

In this episode, we cover:

(00:00) Introducing James Currier, general partner at NFX and dad of four

(02:52) Fostering entrepreneurship in kids

(05:19) The neuro camp initiative

(06:47) Teaching kids about money and avoiding entitlement

(14:12) The importance of a strong marriage

(27:39) The importance of wilderness experiences

(28:15) Learning new skills with your kids

(29:50) Prioritizing individual time with each child

(31:44) Building projects and secret layers

(34:25) Focusing on who your kids hang out with

(36:05) Positive reinforcement over reprimanding

(38:59) Talking to kids like adults

(42:03) The role of a dog in the family

(43:20) Managing technology in the household

(47:12) Lightning Round: Parenting insights and embarrassing moments

Resources From This Episode:

300 (Graphic Novel): https://www.amazon.com/300-Frank-Miller/dp/1569714029

300 (Film): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0416449/

White Noise Machine: https://a.co/d/6YqDwMM

Baby Einstein: https://www.kids2.com/pages/baby-einstein
Madagascar: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0351283/
Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0351283/

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