Mar 24 2025 36 mins 7
Ryan and Will discuss the evolution of startup location strategies. They reminisce about the bygone era when relocating to major hubs like San Francisco was essential for success due to access to talent, investors, and networking opportunities. Now, with advancements in remote work, AI, and digital connectivity, these factors have become less relevant. Ryan and Will delve into the changing dynamics of raising capital, building teams, and cultivating networks without needing to uproot one's life to a specific city.
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Wil Schroter
https://www.linkedin.com/in/wilschroter/
Ryan Rutan
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-rutan/
What to listen for:
00:39 The Shift in Startup Location Importance
01:46 Reevaluating the Need to Move for Startups
01:58 The Impact of Remote Work and COVID-19
03:51 Debating the Necessity of Moving to San Francisco
06:12 Talent Acquisition in the Remote Work Era
09:23 Financial Considerations and Cost of Living
15:10 The Role of Investors in the New Startup Landscape
17:54 Questioning the Need for Large Engineering Teams
18:21 Capital Requirements and Investor Expectations
19:14 The Evolution of Pre-Seed Rounds
22:27 The Impact of Technology on Investment
23:43 Relocating for Networking Opportunities
27:13 The Shift in Startup Location Necessities
32:03 The Value of Flexibility in Startup Locations
35:59 Conclusion: Startups Can Thrive Anywhere
