Firm
Clearstone Associates, previously at Lead Edge Capital
Where To Find Them
LinkedIn
Type of Investing
Micro Private Equity, Venture Capital
Background
Tell us about your background from high school to college
https://beta.grain.co/highlight/FF9B79CjwPCDuWXqmMu9ClQAWs5wTM5P
- Zach's dad was a banker on Wall St. so he grew up around bankers, lawyers, and founders.
- He saw how hard everyone worked (his dad got home late most nights) so when he got to college, his initial plan was to go into banking like his dad did.
- His dad was the one who told him that banking was tough for a marriage and a family, so Zach decided that he would pursue investing instead.
How did you decide on investing while in undergrad?
https://beta.grain.co/highlight/16OV13dDE9BluajG9C1f9CSoENwbaoev
- Early experiences in college taught Zach the importance of just working hard, which is what drove him towards consulting, banking, and entrepreneurship.
- Due to his dad's advice about banking, he decided not to pursue banking and instead founded his first startup, which did very well (won competitions) and taught him a lot.
- Ultimately, the startup didn't work out and he did a few internships in investing and put his own money into the stock market as well. That's what really made investing click for him.
What were your most impactful experiences during undergrad?
https://beta.grain.co/highlight/A3Rr9CZTuCg13U50aAUdg8kbJLeFQvWv
- Having a mentor. His dad was always there to give him advice and answer any and all questions, even if they weren't the smartest questions.