Reflecting on the handshake deals that blossomed into success stories, we open up about the stark realities and the audacity it takes for founders—especially women—to launch and lead startups. Our guest, Suzy Ryoo, co-founder and COO of Venice Music, joins us to share her insights on battling for investment in a heavily skewed landscape, drawing parallels between the challenges she's faced in the music industry and those encountered by women's sports. Together, we peel back the layers of what it takes to innovate fearlessly and the transformative power of fostering inclusive investment strategies and leadership. Waking up at 5 AM isn't just for the birds; it's become a secret weapon for productivity and global business relationships. In our conversation, we highlight the remarkable journey of entrepreneurs like Sophia Amoruso, who've turned early morning routines into empires that reach across time zones. We discuss the importance of adaptability and scheduling in the quiet of the holiday season, allowing us to deepen global connections while respecting personal lives – a balancing act that is as challenging as it is rewarding. As the discussion winds down, we turn our focus toward the pressing need to empower women of color in the business world. It's not about superficial gestures but genuine support that's rooted in a belief in their ventures. We highlight companies like Honeypot that exemplify resilience and the capacity to succeed on merit, setting a beacon for future investments that go beyond just ticking diversity checkboxes. Join us as we confront these pivotal issues head-on, with the hope of inspiring a more equitable future for all founders.