Stan sits down with Tom Barton, a seasoned executive with 25 years of experience in technology infrastructure and software companies. In this episode, they delve into Tom's journey, discussing everything from raising capital to managing employees and negotiating high-stakes deals. Tom shares intriguing stories from his time at Planet Labs, a space company revolutionizing satellite imagery, and Rackable Systems, which he helped take public. Learn about the unique challenges of working with millennials, navigating ethical dilemmas, and the intricate details of negotiating compensation and acquisitions in the tech industry. This conversation is packed with valuable lessons in leadership, transparency, and strategic thinking.

00:56 Tom Barton's Career at Planet Labs

02:49 Challenges with Millennial Employees

04:27 Ethical Dilemmas and Negotiations

09:12 Acquisitions and Negotiation Strategies

17:33 Transition from Operations to Venture Capital

25:19 Introduction to Todd Ford and Initial Challenges

25:36 Discovering Rackable Systems

26:25 Securing Investment and Growing the Company

27:52 Competing with Industry Giants

29:02 Innovative Solutions and Key Partnerships

33:35 Employee Growth and Compensation Challenges

37:15 Negotiation Lessons and Transparency

40:16 Taking Rackable Public and Future Ventures

40:38 Founding Antares and the Vision for Space Software

43:20 Insights on Venture Capital and Investment Strategies

47:24 Lightning Round: Personal Insights and Recommendations