Instech London Podcast

What does it take to build a company like Guidewire or attract investor interest? This week, Matthew Grant talks with Marcus Ryu, Co-founder and Chairman of Guidewire, and Partner at Battery Ventures. Marcus, one of Guidewire's five founders, shares his experiences from starting the company in 2002 and the lessons he learned along the way. In this episode, Marcus discusses his shift from leading Guidewire to investing through a multi-stage technology investment firm. The conversation covers topics relevant to those interested in the insurance industry, current trends in insurance technology, and practical advice for entrepreneurs and investors alike. Key talking points include: Graduate school and finishing at the beginning of the dot-com era What ingredients are necessary to found a successful company?  Startups are insurgents The first sale cycle - what is ‘wandering in the desert’? Why you need recklessness to start a company The Guidewire story and staying agile in 2024 From founder to investor - joining