— Writing —

    Ideas & Perspectives

    Thoughts on markets, technology, and the founders I admire.

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    Insights · Aug 27, 2026

    Field Notes No. 10 - The Cursor of Lovable

    It's rough sledding out there for many VC-backed companies trying to raise. I think I know why.

    3 min read
    Field Notes No. 9 - A few things to read and Listen to
    Insights · Aug 13, 2026

    Field Notes No. 9 - A few things to read and Listen to

    I just wanted to write a short note this week to pass along two things: something worth reading if you're anywhere near venture capital, and a record I've been waiting for that finally rewarded me fandom!

    4 min read
    Insights · Jul 30, 2026

    Field Notes No. 8 - Can You Scale A Hallway Conversation?

    The Full Ratchet Society... my attempt to do some mentoring at scale.

    5 min read
    Field Notes No. 7: A new project!
    Announcements · Jul 17, 2026

    Field Notes No. 7: A new project!

    I'm creating a new opportunity for students interested in venture capital and startups to gather and connect with professionals in the space.

    4 min read
    Field Notes No. 6
    Insights · May 27, 2026

    Field Notes No. 6

    Everyone says they want operators. Almost no one says what one is. A field guide to recognizing the real thing.

    17 min read
    Field Notes No. 5
    Insights · Apr 30, 2026

    Field Notes No. 5

    I'm revamping Field Notes... but the reading pile has grown too large and you really need to start working your way through it or you're going to get behind! Cheers.

    2 min read
    Field Notes No. 4
    Insights · Mar 26, 2026

    Field Notes No. 4

    A grand theory of "distribution," some venture data from 2025, my concerns about where we are headed in public health, and some thoughts on AI.

    9 min read
    Field Notes No. 3
    Insights · Mar 19, 2026

    Field Notes No. 3

    Welcome to Field Notes No. 3, where I'm going to take a small torch to simple agreements for future equity (SAFEs). I also have a GREAT podcast for you this week that will make you smarter. And some of my thoughts on the role of a CEO.

    7 min read
    Field Notes No. 2
    Insights · Mar 12, 2026

    Field Notes No. 2

    Every VC is an N of 1. Some thoughts on investor fit. Investors deal with illiquid markets. My journey into off-grid radios, and reflections on almost a decade of teaching the next generation of VCs and entrepreneurs in the Midwest.

    9 min read
    Welcome to Field Notes!
    Insights · Feb 26, 2026

    Welcome to Field Notes!

    Welcome to Field Notes from Hayseed Capital, a semi-regular newsletter from Jeff Stowell — 2x founder, 3x CEO, venture investor. Each issue has something for founders, something for investors, something worth reading, and whatever's rattling around in my head that week. Glad you're here.

    4 min read
    Welcome to Hayseed Capital
    Announcements · Feb 25, 2026

    Welcome to Hayseed Capital

    Welcome to Hayseed Capital, where I am trying to rethink how startups get funded and how people learn about the venture ecosystem.

    2 min read