No Red Lights: Reflections on Life, 50 Years in Venture Capital, and Never Driving Alone
by: Alan J. Patricof (2022)
Extensive media and online coverage of the business arena, news of start-ups, mergers, and deals are familiar headlines these days. But that wasnât always the case. The early years of venture capital were a far cry from todayâs very public dealings. Alan Patricof, one of the pioneers of the venture arena, offers a behind-the-scenes look at the past fifty years of the industry. From buying stock in Apple when its market valuation was only $60 million to founding New York Magazine to investing in AOL, Audible, and more recently, Axios, his discerning approach to finding companies is almost peerless.
All of Patricofâs investmentsâfrom Xerox to Venmoâshare certain qualities. Each company had sound product with wide appeal, the economics were solid, and the management team was talented and committed to seeing their visions come to fruition.
The Reviews
Alan Patricof is a legend. As a founder of the venture capital industry (and the firms APAX, Greycroft, and PrimeTime Partners), he's helped countless entrepreneurs realize their visions through capital, connections, and counsel. The companies Alan has backed include household names like Audible, AOL, and Apple - and that's just the "A"s. He's also been instrumental across sectors beyond finance & entrepreneurship, leaving an indelible imprint on politics, media, and philanthropy.The advice and stories contained in "No Red Lights" are invaluable to anyone seeking to also make an impact on those around them. Highly recommend!
If you're thinking about starting your own company, your next company, or becoming a VC investor, there's a well known list of 'must-read' books. 'No Red Lights' has just joined the top of that list.
This book is a two for oneâa good primer in what makes a venture capitalist successful while offering a great ride following Alan Patricofâs wildly active life, with his myriad interests and high regard for everyone he encounters along the way.
An inspiration for those starting out or in the later stages of their career. Hope you make it to 114 years.
A fun read, and wonderfully written. He is a legend, and by sharing his life and lessons will encourage you to reach for more. Great for all ages.
Alan Patricof stories are legendary. Bristling with his intellect, insights and candor. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
No Red Lights is a fantastic read. Not only does Mr. Patricof share a wealth of business knowledge from his 50 year career in Venture Capital, but his life advice is arguably even more valuable.
