In this episode, Joel Palathinkal and John Zeratsky of Character VC to explore design sprints and their influence on venture capital. They discuss the impact on product teams, insights from Character Labs, and three VC entry paths. The conversation focuses on pre-seed accelerator founders and key traits, balancing feedback with visionary development, and the importance of innovation. They share impressive products and desired ideas, while examining product team challenges and wearable tech innovations. The episode wraps up with closing remarks and a shoutout to Dave Saxe. (0:00) Introduction to the podcast and guest John Zoradsky (7:40) Origin and methodology of design sprints (10:01) Role of product teams and sprints in venture capital (20:25) Character Labs and insights from design sprints in VC (26:04) Three paths into the world of VC and sprint framework (37:14) Founders in pre-seed accelerators and founder characteristics (42:38) Balancing customer feedback with visionary development (45:24) Importance of game-changing innovations (47:06) Products that impressed the speakers and desired product ideas (52:29) Challenges in product teams and innovative wearable technology (55:44) Closing remarks and appreciation (56:09) Shout out to Dave Saxe and concluding the episode