This podcast episode explores Marcus Ryu's journey from a PhD in philosophy to becoming an entrepreneur and building a successful vertical software business. Marcus shares his insights on what he looks for in entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of strategic coherence in their plans. He highlights the need for a cogent theory and the ability to challenge industry conventions. The episode also discusses the challenges faced in starting a company, the perception of intermediaries in a technology-driven world, and the importance of intellectual curiosity and innovation in the insurance industry. It delves into the process of building a software company, the significance of defining success measures, and the values and moral conviction necessary for building a strong company culture. Lastly, the episode touches on the significance of board meetings and deep alignment in company success, scaling as a leader, the role of insurance in managing risks, and the consequences of operating under a false theory.