better doing
How to bulletproof your fundraising deck
Much has been written about how to create a great deck. This article particularly focuses on how to calculate and show metrics that stand up to scrutiny. | learn more
better doing
The bus ticket theory of genius
This is one of Paul Graham’s essays (he’s known for them) that discusses the source of genius. “Everyone knows that to do great work you need both natural ability and determination. But there’s a third ingredient that’s not as well […]
tech, startups, internet
Convincing investors that you’re Facebook, not Friendster
There’s a great point here about understanding the history of your market. “[I]nvestors have longer memories of failures than new entrepreneurs. When you’re describing the future, most of them are remembering the past. … What companies came before? Why did […]
tech, startups, internet
The passion economy
A lot to think about here… “Gig work isn’t going anywhere—but there are now more ways to capitalize on creativity. Users can now build audiences at scale and turn their passions into livelihoods, whether that’s playing video games or producing […]
oh, chicago
911 operator blew off the wrong call
“Police issued a warning after at least eight robberies unfolded on the Near North Side and in Lincoln Park on Sunday. But one 911 call taker refused to give a citizen’s critical information to dispatchers, an Old Town resident says.” | learn […]
oh, chicago
Insight into the suburban pot backlash
A few weeks ago, I shared news about protesters who tried (unsuccessfully) to have Buffalo Grove ban pot. It turns out many of the protesters are traveling town to town rather than locals. “Critics complained that Opt Out consisted of […]
fun facts
Scripted TV costs are getting higher
With Apple joining the ‘original series’ party, costs of production are now up to $15-17 million per hour of TV. | learn more
fun facts
Hackers can use lasers to ‘speak’ to your Amazon Echo or Google Home
Well, I guess it’s time to keep the shades closed! “By sending laser-powered ‘light commands’ to a smart assistant, researchers could force it to unlock cars, open garage doors, and more.” | learn more
tech, startups, internet
How Cloudflare stood up to a patent troll and won
This is a wonderful story (and blueprint) that should warm the heart of anyone who’s ever received a letter from a patent troll. There is hope! | learn more
oh, chicago
Faster trains are the only hope for Blue Line
The train line through my neighborhood (connecting downtown to O’Hare) is notoriously crowded these days. Everyone complains, but there’s no easy fix. There isn’t enough electricity to power more trains, and the curved tracks prevent them from adding more cars […]