Matt Jung: Ember Company

The Investor With Joel Palathinkal

In this episode, Joel Palathinkal engages with Matt Jung from Ember Fund, exploring his transition during the financial crisis to the founding of Ember Fund and its unique business model. They delve into the challenges faced by high-growth brands, the nuances of venture debt, and the distinction between credit and debt funds. Matt shares insights on private credit trends, consulting for equity, and Ember Fund's investment interests. They discuss the apparel industry's struggles and consumer trends in CPG, beverages, and plant-based products. The conversation covers regulatory challenges, red flags in consumer startups, and effective subscription models. Matt offers advice for aspiring fund managers, focusing on building networks and learning from recent quarters. (0:00) Introduction and Matt's Background with Ember Fund (2:23) Matt's Transition to Ember Fund and the Financial Crisis (5:18) Ember Fund's Founding and Business Model (6:54) Challenges in High Growth Brands and Venture Debt (9:03) Credit vs Debt Funds and Cash Flow Importance (12:20) Venture Debt Strategy and Private Credit Trends (16:48) Consulting for Equity and Ember Fund's Investment Interests (18:48) Pullback on Apparel and Fashion Industry Challenges (25:06) Consumer Trends in CPG, Beverages, and Plant-Based Products (27:09) Regulatory Landscape for CPG Startups (28:34) Red Flags and Conviction Factors in Consumer Startups (30:23) Subscription Models and Customer Acquisition Strategies (34:06) Navigating Marketing Channels and Inventory Management (40:12) Advice for Aspiring Fund Managers and Building Networks (44:55) Lessons Learned from Recent Quarters