We’re kicking off 2026 with a returning favorite: Steve Lord, Burkland's COO and Head of Knowledge Share. He joins us to unpack what really happened in 2025—and what founders should be paying attention to now for 2026.

In this wide-ranging conversation, we dive into the economy, interest rates, inflation, tariffs, market volatility, and venture capital, and what it all means for startups navigating fundraising, hiring, and growth. This episode gives founders must-have guidance on what to expect in 2026 and how to tackle the challenges ahead.

We discuss:

• Why Steve predicts a rebound in early-stage funding
• Interest rate outlook for 2026 and what could trigger cuts
• Economic outlook for 2026 and what founders should be watching
• M&A trends and consolidation moves founders can’t afford to ignore
• Why clean books, taxes, and cap tables matter more than ever

For startup founders trying to make sense of the macro noise and wondering what to expect in 2026, this episode delivers grounded perspective, practical advice, and a cautiously optimistic outlook for the year ahead.

----Stay connected with our host, Kate Adams, here on LinkedIn!