This Week in Startups: YC demo day valuation tensions, how VCs can find gems, Substack's performance & more | E1716

Jason breaks down the valuation tension surrounding YC demo days (2:36), how to get better prices on YC-equivalent startups (8:59), Garry Tan's response to complaints (15:18), and more! Then, Jason reacts to a law firm's leaked expectations list that went viral (29:29) before wrapping with some thoughts about Substack (41:59).

(0:00) Jason tees up Friday's topics!

(2:36) Understanding the valuation tension of YC's demo day; why some investors resent YC

(8:59) Jason's three ways to avoid overpaying for YC startups

(13:56) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist

(15:18) Garry Tan's response to demo day valuation complaints; Harry Stebbings and Garry Tan's back and forth on valuations/expectations

(24:07) Linode - Apply to Linode's Rise program for a $500 credit and up to six figures in discounts at https://linode.com/twist

(25:34) How startups that got accepted into YC can cold email top VCs to raise pre-demo day

(29:29) Jason reacts to a law firm's leaked expectations list that went viral

(36:13) QuickNode - Get one month free by using code TWIST at https://go.quicknode.com/twist

(37:25) Reactions to the viral expectations list

(41:59) Substack publishes 2021 gross revenue, net loss, and cash on hand and Jason breaks down the company's position

Email your pitch deck to yc@launch.co if you were rejected by YC and want to meet with the LAUNCH team!

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