May 09, 2016

Tuck Spotlight: 10 Questions with Jon Baer T’78

Jon Baer T'78, partner at Threshold Ventures, is a recovering venture capitalist and founder/CEO of two venture-backed companies. He is now co-author of Decoding Silicon Valley: The Insider's Guide.

1. What was the exact moment when you first felt like you were a part of Tuck’s community?

My first meal in Stell Hall.

2. Who had a profound impact on you during your time at Tuck and why?

Brian Quinn-the best teacher ever. He challenged you to think and be resourceful-and quickly.

3. What’s your favorite Tuck/Dartmouth/Hanover/Upper Valley event and why?

Winter carnival was great. The ice sculptures were always amazing.

4. Fill in the blank: every visitor to the Upper Valley needs to____.

See the autumn leaves changing colors.

5. What’s a challenge that you’re currently working on solving? Or perhaps a world problem you’d like to see solved?

I am helping entrepreneurs all around the world be more successful.

6. What do you personally feel is the key to good leadership?

Listening and asking good questions of others.

7. Outside of work, what do you like to do for fun?

Photography and restoring a 1906 historic landmark home.

9. What’s the best piece of advice you can offer on getting ahead? Or, what’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Your career will be clear in hindsight only. Look at the world as a place filled with opportunities instead of focusing on charting a perfect career. You will have to reinvent yourself one or more times in your career.

10. What is one thing that people would be most surprised to learn about you?

My kids are relatively young: 18 and 21.