Creators vs Iterators

Kevin Rose shares his perspective on different types of entrepreneurs and what excites him most in the startup world. He distinguishes between creative innovators and iterative improvers, expressing a clear preference for those who think differently about entire industries.

Key Points:

• Two Types of Entrepreneurs:

  • Creative/Innovative: Think about entirely new verticals or flip existing models
  • Opportunistic/Iterative: See rough edges on existing products and improve them

• What Excites Him:

  • Working with creative people who have wild ideas
  • Entrepreneurs thinking about entire new verticals
  • People who flip existing models completely on their head
  • Not dependent on previous success or reputation

• His Investment Philosophy:

  • Drawn to entrepreneurs with new ways of looking at the world
  • Values those who think beyond simple product improvements
  • Interested in world-changing ideas over incremental improvements

• Personal Approach:

  • Gets energized by new ideas and creative collaborations
  • Doesn't require entrepreneurs to have created something big before
  • Values wild ideas and new perspectives over proven track records

• Success Factors:

  • Great success can come from both approaches
  • Iterative entrepreneurs can have great success
  • But transformative ideas come from creative entrepreneurs

This perspective shapes how he evaluates opportunities and chooses which entrepreneurs to work with, whether as an investor or collaborator.