# Episode #63: Sequoia Breaks Portfolio Conflict Rules, Pre-Seed Is Dead?, FAANG to Startup Regret

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-learning-corner-by-precursor-7030204/episode-63-sequoia-breaks-portfolio-conflict-rules-pre-seed-is-dead-faang-to-startup-regret
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-learning-corner-by-precursor-7030204/episode-63-sequoia-breaks-portfolio-conflict-rules-pre-seed-is-dead-faang-to-startup-regret.md
Podcast: [The Learning Corner by Precursor](https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-learning-corner-by-precursor-7030204)
Published: 2026-01-22T20:00:00+00:00
Episode link: https://the-learning-corner-by-precursor.onpodcastai.com/episodes/Jm84tjSLufa
Audio file: https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/media.podcastai.com/episodes/Jm84tjSLufa.mp3?u=1769114700
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Duration seconds: 1386

## Resource

This week we discuss Sequoia's groundbreaking decision to invest in Anthropic despite existing stakes in OpenAI and xAI, challenging traditional VC taboos around backing competitors. We explore why pre-seed fundraising has fundamentally changed, with most founders now needing $300K ARR just to get meetings. Finally, we examine a candid reflection from an ex-Amazon employee who regretted leaving FAANG for a startup, highlighting the mission-driven intensity required to succeed in early-stage companies.

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## Transcript

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