My friend Dave tipped me off to a great series on ITunes U -- the Stanford Technology Ventures Program. It has a wonderful set of lectures by various high-tech entrepreneurs mostly from Silicon Valley.
As I'm in the process of launching a company, I'm amazed by how relevant the insight of these repeat entrepreneurs can be. I'm recalling how this type of lecture used to sound trite and self-important back in school when I had no notion about what it takes to run a business. Now, however, it feels urgent and relevant because so much of starting a business seems to be about trusting yourself and others -- about escalating commitment while managing risk.
It's not the type of knowledge that you cite, since just as soon as you cite it you're reminded of exceptions to the rule. It's the type of knowledge that helps to build judgment, patience, and prudence. No wonder so much of it feels like a parable -- professors telling stories meant to teach a lesson and to serve as a strong reminder of what *could* happen.
I highly recommend the series (and thanks to Dave for pointing it out!).
