S7E8 (68): Salen Churi, VC, on supporting innovation through policy change

In this episode, Jeff sits down with his friend Sal Churi, Founder and General Partner at Trust Ventures, a VC firm that helps portfolio companies navigate and change regulatory issues that are impeding their progress and their positive impact on society. They discuss Sal’s family history that includes surviving the holocaust and fighting in wars, his growing up in Ohio, and how he transitioned from a law professor to a policy-focused Venture Capitalist, and more…

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/l7a5QrV8-YY

Learn more:

Host: Jeffrey M. Zucker

Producer: Kait Grey

Editor: Nick Case

Recording date: 7/11/23

https://www.trustventures.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/trustventures/

Bio:

Salen is a leading expert on navigating the collision points of innovation and regulation. A former law professor at the University of Chicago and founder of its Innovation Clinic, he has advised startups on regulatory strategy across industries. Previously, Salen practiced law at the international law firms of Kirkland & Ellis and Sidley Austin, and advised low-income entrepreneurs in overcoming barriers at the Institute for Justice.

0:00 - Intro

5:19 - Upbringing

13:35 - Early Career

29:56 - Trust Ventures

35:25 - Financial Success vs Policy Success

44:23 - Business as a Vehicle for Change

50:36 - Clean Energy and Affecting Policy Change

53:16 - Oklo Energy

58:46 - Antora Energy

1:02:27 - AI

1:06:22 - Future of Trust Ventures

1:07:57 - Mercatus Center

1:10:42 - When Work Effected Change

1:14:12 - Mentor

1:18:56 - Ask Jeff a Question

1:20:45 - Most Proud of

1:24:24 - Snap Your Fingers

1:26:03 - How to Support