Philosophy

The Illusion of Digital Success: Finding Reality

The Dissonance Between the Digital and the Real
We live in a world where everything online looks finished — startups, ideas, even people — while reality remains imperfect, slow, and deeply human. This essay explores how the digital world distorts our sense of progress and truth, how that distortion has been hijacked to spread anxiety, and why thinking for oneself has become a radical act in the age of digital illusion.

Give First: The Power of Mentorship and the Story of Iceland’s Startup Renaissance

When we launched Startup Iceland in 2012, few believed a startup ecosystem could take root in Iceland. But with the support of early believers like Brad Feld—who not only keynoted our first conference but also mentored founders in person—we planted the seeds of a Give First culture. Since then, mentorship has become the foundation of everything I do, from Startup Reykjavik to the investment funds I manage. I dedicate one hour every week to each founder we back—because generosity and compassion aren’t just values, they’re strategies for long-term success. Brad’s upcoming book, Give First – The Power of Mentorship, captures this beautifully. It’s not just a philosophy—it’s how we build the future.

Redefining the Narrative: Taking Control of Our Future and Climate Change

The talk in Ljubliana, Slovenia focused on Circular and Green Innovation, emphasizing the importance of small, mission-driven groups in shaping the future. The speaker highlighted the need to challenge negative narratives and shared examples of innovative sustainability solutions, promoting optimism and proactive action. The event showcased inspiring initiatives, encouraging positive change.

Reboot: Leadership and the art of growing up

Reboot: Leadership and the art of growing up is a book written by Jerry Colonna, my friend, mentor and coach. He has condensed decades of wisdom of working with founders and also being an investor. I recommend this book for everyone, as everyone is a leader.

Zero to One – Revisited

The most important things in life are singular. Time and decision making are singular and follow a power law, and some moments matter far more than others. However, you can’t trust a world that denies the power law to accurately frame your decisions for you, so what’s more important is rarely obvious. It might even be a secret. But in a power law world, you can’t afford not to think hard about where your actions will fall on the curve. Decision to attend Startup Iceland is one of those moments.