In this episode of Skin in the Game, Saxon Baum sits down with Marshall Sandman, Managing Partner of Animal Capital, for a conversation that covers everything from venture capital and founder relationships to content creation and the future of innovation. Marshall shares his journey from investment banking and WarnerMedia to launching Animal Capital, a venture firm that has backed companies like Whatnot, Underdog Fantasy Sports, and Colossal Biosciences.
The discussion dives into why Marshall believes showing up in person still matters, how he thinks about building trust with founders and investors, and why Animal Capital has intentionally stayed away from many of the industry's biggest hype cycles. He also shares his perspective on what makes a great founder, the importance of storytelling when raising capital, and why some of the best opportunities can be found outside traditional startup hubs.
Marshall also talks about his growing presence on social media, his commitment to publishing daily content for founders and investors, and how sharing practical lessons online has helped entrepreneurs connect with him directly. Whether you're a founder, investor, or simply interested in how venture capital really works behind the scenes, this episode offers an honest look at building relationships, making investment decisions, and creating long-term value. Tune in to this episode and let us know your thoughts.
What is Skin in the Game VC Podcast?
Florida Funders Managing Partner and "Skin in the Game VC" podcast hosts Saxon Baum & Tom Wallace believes that entrepreneurs are game changers and that the companies they envision, create and build make the world a better place. FLF is a hybrid venture capital fund and investor network that discovers, funds, and builds early-stage technology companies. We combine a $300M+ venture platform with 2,000+ accredited investors to back breakout founders in B2B software, fintech, AI, health care, and cybersecurity. Beyond capital, our team of serial entrepreneurs and investors provides operating expertise, strategic introductions, and a nationwide support network that helps founders win. By unifying venture capital with an engaged investor community, we deliver exceptional outcomes for founders and LPs alike. This podcast was envisioned to educate, connect and activate accredited investors to get skin in the game and invest like a VC.