Jason Calacanis is a prominent entrepreneur, angel investor, and podcaster who has made a significant impact on the technology industry. Over the years, he has built and sold several successful companies, invested in many others, and shared his insights and experiences through various media channels.
Born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1970, Calacanis was always drawn to the world of business and technology. After graduating from Fordham University with a degree in psychology, he moved to Los Angeles and started his first company, Silicon Alley Reporter, in 1996. The publication covered the emerging tech scene in New York City and quickly gained a following among investors, entrepreneurs, and industry insiders.
In 1998, Jason Calacanis founded Weblogs, Inc., a network of over 100 blogs covering various topics, from technology and entertainment to sports and politics. The company became one of the most successful blog networks of its time and was acquired by AOL for a reported $25 million in 2005.
After the sale of Weblogs, Inc., Calacanis continued to be active in the startup world as an angel investor. He has invested in more than 150 companies, including Uber, Robinhood, and Calm, among others. He has also served as a mentor and advisor to many founders and startups, offering his expertise and insights on product development, marketing, and fundraising.
In addition to his investments, Calacanis is also known for his podcast, This Week in Startups, which he started in 2009. The show features interviews with founders, investors, and other experts in the startup world, as well as news and analysis of the latest industry trends. The podcast has become a popular resource for entrepreneurs and investors looking to stay informed and up-to-date on the latest developments in the tech world.
Calacanis has also written several books, including "Angel: How to Invest in Technology Startups," which offers practical advice and insights on angel investing. He is known for his no-nonsense approach to business and his willingness to speak his mind on controversial topics, making him a polarizing figure in the industry.
While Calacanis has had many successes in his career, he has also faced his share of challenges and setbacks. In 2017, he announced that he was taking a break from angel investing after a dispute with a startup founder. He has also been involved in several public disputes with other industry figures, including Tesla CEO Elon Musk and venture capitalist Peter Thiel.
Despite these controversies, Calacanis remains a respected and influential figure in the technology industry. His experience and insights continue to be sought after by entrepreneurs and investors alike, and his contributions to the industry are likely to be felt for years to come.