Joel Palathinkal talks with Dan Stolar about his journey from education to a career in investment banking and venture capital. Stolar highlights the impact of the Birthright Excel program and his internships, offering insights into transitioning into investment banking. The discussion covers Israel's tech scene, advice for aspiring venture capitalists, and Calibri's investment strategy. They explore manager evaluation, fund performance, and venture strategy advice for family offices. The episode wraps up with insights on emerging managers, funds of funds, and traits of successful venture managers. (0:00) Introduction to The Investor with Guest Dan Stoller (1:28) Dan Stoller's early life, education, and career journey (4:54) Internship experiences and the influence of Birthright Excel program (9:05) Lessons from role models and early career (12:36) Transitioning to and key learnings from investment banking (21:24) Venture capital insights and the impact of Israel's tech scene (23:52) Advice for aspiring venture capitalists and making your own luck (27:47) Networking and Calibri's investment strategy (30:20) Alpha's co-investment approach and manager selection criteria (33:14) Manager evaluation: qualitative, quantitative, and deal flow analysis (39:11) Fund performance assessment, red flags, and reference checking (42:16) Venture strategy advice for family offices (45:02) Decision-making on emerging managers and funds of funds (46:15) Sector expertise and the traits of successful venture managers (49:27) Closing remarks and appreciation