165: Foreign Roots to Silicon Valley Heights: The Exit Journey of International Founder Alfonso de la Nuez

Sophie Alcorn Podcast

Embark on an entrepreneurial odyssey with Alfonso de la Nuez, the visionary co-founder behind UserZoom's jaw-dropping $810 million acquisition by Thoma Bravo. From the roots of a modest Spanish startup to the fruits of a $100 million ARR (Annual Recurring Revenue) behemoth, Alfonso's tale is one of grit, innovation, and the cultural bridges crossed in Silicon Valley's vibrant startup landscape. His transition from CEO to advisor, post-merger with UserTesting, is a lesson in adaptability and strategic foresight – a narrative that reveals the heart of an industry in flux and the transformative power of user experience insights.

The Spanish startup ecosystem's dramatic evolution serves as the backdrop to our conversation with Alfonso, painting a vivid picture of Spain's recent renaissance in entrepreneurship. He delves into the psychological pivot as Spanish entrepreneurs embrace stock options and financial participation and how significant exits such as his are revolutionizing the perception of wealth and ambition. But it's not just about the money – the art of product-market fit and Alfonso's dual role in shaping product development and market strategy underscores the competitive edge that user experience has carved out, especially in a world reshaped by the pandemic.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• Entrepreneurship and cultural shifts in Spain
• Negotiations for majority control and investment
• Building successful startup through transitions
• Challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship
• Motivation, culture, and startups

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Supporting Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law:

• Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter
• Sophie Alcorn Podcast:
• Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees
• Episode 89: Advocating for International Startup Founders with Jeff Farrah of National Venture Capital Association
• Episode 146: Access to Innovation: Founders and the Blockchain with Samuel Ekpe
• Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders
• Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.