Alex Danco on Speechwriting, Blogging, and Giving Founders Power

Fresh off the announcement of his move from Shopify to a16z, Alex Danco joins TBPN to talk about the “trade deal” that brought him here and his mission to make the firm’s written content truly world class.

He discusses why he believes writing still matters in the age of AI, how great prose can act as “power transfer technology” for founders, and why he’s betting on the overlooked art of speechwriting. Alex also reflects on his years as a founder, investor, and longtime blogger, and shares the formats he’s most excited to explore, from deal memos to launch speeches.

Timecodes:

0:00 Joining a16z

0:41 The Power of Writing & Speechwriting

2:45 Reflections on Blogging & Communication

5:10 Writing as Power Transfer Technology

6:46 Formats & Content at a16z

8:09 The Underrated Art of Speechwriting

11:21 The Evolution of Blogging & Audience

12:23 Looking Forward: Brand & Legacy

Resources:

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Please note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.