Hard Truths by Vertex
A podcast about startups, venture capital, and what really
happens while companies are being built.
Hard Truths by Vertex — Raw, Unfiltered VC Wisdom
Hard Truths by Vertex brings together founders, investors, operators, and industry leaders from Southeast Asia and India.
The conversations focus on the parts of startup building that are often cleaned up in hindsight: pivots, mistakes, fundraising, hiring, product decisions, market shifts, and the moments when things nearly went wrong.
The show draws on Vertex Ventures Southeast Asia & India's experience investing across the region and covers everything from fintech and consumer businesses to leadership, growth, and the craft of investing.
Rahul Thayyalamkandy
What Makes Hard Truths by Vertex Different
What Actually Happened
Guests talk about mistakes, difficult decisions, pivots, and lessons that usually disappear from the polished version of the story.
Startups Across Southeast Asia and India
The show looks at building and investing through the realities of these markets.
Both Sides of the Table
Founders and investors discuss fundraising, product, growth, leadership, hiring, and investment decisions.
What Listeners Are Saying
"Hard Truths by Vertex is the rare VC podcast that actually tells the truth. No pitching, no posturing — just honest accounts of what startup building and venture investing really look like."
"The PatSnap episode is one of the best founder stories I've heard. The honesty about burnout and feedback is the kind of thing most founders never admit publicly."
"Vertex has backed so many of Southeast Asia's most important companies. This show gives you access to their actual thinking — which is invaluable."
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