Avanti, Avanti, Sempre Avanti Max Effgen, April 9, 2025 The Italian phrase “Avanti, avanti, sempre avanti”—translated as “Forward, forward, always forward”—is a rhythmic, resolute declaration that carries the weight of history, culture, and human spirit. It’s a mantra that echoes through Italy’s past and present, a call to action rooted in resilience and optimism. To an outsider, it might… Continue Reading
Goethe’s Truth Bomb Max Effgen, March 27, 2025March 27, 2025 Goethe, that titan of German literature, dropped a truth bomb that still echoes through the centuries… Continue Reading
Never Die Easy: Enduring Wisdom of Walter Payton Max Effgen, March 19, 2025March 27, 2025 Never Die Easy: The Enduring Wisdom of Walter Payton Walter Payton, one of the greatest running backs in NFL history, left behind more than just records and accolades. I have been reflecting on his words, “Never die easy. Why run out of bounds and die easy? Make that linebacker pay…. Continue Reading
Kilogear Max Effgen, February 22, 2025February 22, 2025 Kilogear (https://kilogear.com/) is an interesting fitness startup. I have been using their gear after a chance meeting with the founders. I immediately understood the concept of microloading thanks to course work through USATF. Simply, Kilogear works. My first ruck with Kilogear was 5.5 lbs. heavier than my normal rucks and… Continue Reading
CEO Wisdom Podcast with Charles Cormier Max Effgen, January 28, 2025 Thank you Charles. I enjoyed our conversation. Continue Reading
Thoughts for 2025 Max Effgen, January 3, 2025 Angel and Pre-Seed investing has been growing and will continue to grow. Competition for dollars will continue to be a challenge, especially for first time founders. The team for young companies is paramount. They need to understand the problem that started the company and have tremendous synergy with each other…. Continue Reading
Startup Due Diligence Legal Issues Max Effgen, October 29, 2024 Below is a fairly comprehensive list of what I look for when I am doing due diligence on a potential startup investment. Choice of Entity Capitalization Intellectual Property Employment Matters Compliance Continue Reading
Expanding financial assistance for living Negro League players Max Effgen, July 22, 2024December 18, 2024 Since May, there has been a flurry of news regarding the Negro Leagues inclusion into Major League Baseball. The Negro Leagues persisted independently in response to common societal segregation and racism. Rube Foster, founder of the Negro National League, captured this entrepreneurial spirit with the leagues’ slogan, “We Are the… Continue Reading
Startup Investing for Student Entrepreneurs Max Effgen, May 14, 2024June 5, 2024 Startup Investing for Student Entrepreneurs I have been fortunate to work with student-led startups recently. A common theme in their questions is how to raise money and the structures that these startups should consider. The outside investment process is specifically, no founder, no friends and family money. People who do… Continue Reading
Conquering Heroes Max Effgen, January 11, 2024January 11, 2024 Congratulations to the 2023 Michigan Wolverines! This season has been tremendous. Really happy I had a chance to see a game at the Big House and the Rose Bowl this season. This victory was a true team effort. It starts at the top. Coach Harbaugh embodies the Michigan Man (See… Continue Reading