JULIEN SMITH

Julien Smith is a prominent figure in the entrepreneurial landscape, celebrated for his innovative spirit and strategic acumen. While not a traditional venture capitalist, Smith's career embodies the essence of an investor through his role as a founder who successfully raised significant capital, built, and exited a high-growth company. His journey provides invaluable insights into the investment ecosystem from the perspective of a visionary entrepreneur.

Smith is best known as the co-founder and former CEO of Breather, a pioneering company that offered a network of private, on-demand workspaces. Under his leadership, Brether scaled significantly, attracting substantial investment rounds from notable firms and ultimately being acquired by Industrious. This successful exit highlights his ability to identify market needs, execute a compelling business strategy, and deliver value, making him a key player in the startup and real estate technology sectors.

His career background extends beyond Breather. Smith is also an accomplished author, with works like "The Flinch" and "Trust Fun" exploring themes of personal growth, courage, and digital culture. He is a sought-after speaker, sharing his experiences in entrepreneurship, leadership, and the challenges of building a company from the ground up. His insights are particularly valuable to aspiring founders and investors looking to understand the dynamics of scaling a business and navigating the complexities of the modern market.

Julien Smith's investment focus, interpreted through his entrepreneurial lens, centers on disruptive technologies, consumer-facing platforms, and businesses that redefine traditional industries. His involvement often extends to advisory roles for various startups, where he provides strategic guidance on product development, market entry, and fundraising. While specific public 'notable investments' as a VC are not his primary profile, his most significant 'investment' has been in his own ventures, particularly Breather, which stands as a testament to his ability to attract capital and generate substantial returns through strategic vision and operational excellence. His experience in raising capital and navigating M&A processes makes him a valuable resource and thought leader for anyone involved in the venture capital and startup world.