In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, host Hannah Dittman sits down with Jaxon Stuart, Investor at Spacestation Investments, to explore a unique intersection of venture capital, influencer marketing, and creator-led brands. The conversation reveals how Spacestation evolved from a corporate angel arm founded by a top YouTuber into a full-fledged investment fund—and why their model of strategic SPVs combined with committed capital makes them stand out in the consumer investing landscape.
Jaxon shares how Spacestation approaches investing through their "three Ps" framework: people, product, and progress. He discusses the transition from deal-by-deal SPVs to their newly launched venture fund, what momentum really means when evaluating early-stage brands, and why building authentic relationships with founders matters more than checking boxes. Drawing from portfolio successes like Magic Spoon, Graza, Olipop, and Oura Ring, Jaxson reveals what separates compelling investment opportunities and how Spacestation's creator network adds differentiated value beyond capital.
Throughout the episode, listeners gain practical insights on investor-founder dynamics, when to start fundraising, and why every founder should write a comprehensive deal memo on their business. Whether you're pre-seed or scaling to Series A, this conversation offers actionable strategies for building fundable brands while leveraging modern marketing channels and maintaining operational excellence through AI and lean operations.
Listen in as they discuss:
- Spacestation's origin story: from YouTuber-founded angel arm to venture fund
- The Magic Spoon bowl and spoon origin story and early value-add investing
- SPVs vs. committed capital funds: structure, flexibility, and founder implications
- The "three Ps" framework: people, product, and progress in diligence
- Why momentum across multiple metrics matters more than single data points
- Building 10+ year relationships with founders and the "low bar" of being a good investor
- How Spacestation curates strategic SPV investors from the creator economy
- Why every founder should write a living deal memo on their business
- When to start fundraising: profitable growth vs. accelerating exit timelines
- AI's role in operational efficiency and reducing headcount needs
- The importance of being value-additive before asking for VC jobs
Episode Links:
Website: https://www.spacestationinvestments.com
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaxonstuart/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/space-station-investments/
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Show Links:
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- Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.com
- Episode music by Super Fantastics
