Bank with Stifel

January 5, 2026 | Video

Crossing the Table: From Founder to Funder

Venture Banking

Crossing the Table: From Founder to Founder

How do you transition from being an entrepreneur to being a smart investor? Mike and Kass Lazerow (Founders of Buddy Media, Investors at Lazerow Ventures) detail their journey from operators to VCs.

They share “The Go Gauge”—their proprietary 6-point framework for vetting any new investment. They also break down the biggest mindset shift founders must make, why investing is “decision making under fear,” and Kass’s #1 piece of advice for success in any field: networking.

ABOUT THIS SERIES This is a Stifel Venture Banking series featuring entrepreneurs, investors, and the Stifel Bank team, covering the complete founder journey from startup to exit… and what comes next.

CONNECT WITH STIFEL Stifel works with founders and the funds that back them.

For Founders & Family Offices: Connect with a Stifel Financial Advisor

Learn more about Stifel Venture Banking, a division of Stifel Bank, Member FDIC

Guests

  • Mike Lazerow (Entrepreneur)
  • Kass Lazerow (Entrepreneur)

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