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In this special tribute episode of From Startup to Exit, hosts Shirish Nadkarni and Gowri Shankar reflect on the life, legacy, and enduring impact of their dear friend, S. Somasegar—known to so many simply as “Soma.” A pioneering Microsoft executive, respected venture capitalist at Madrona, mentor, investor, and community builder, Soma touched countless lives across the technology and startup ecosystems.

Joining the conversation are two people who knew him exceptionally well: Tim Porter, Managing Director at Madrona, and Vetri Vellore, serial entrepreneur and founder whose career was shaped by Soma’s guidance over decades. Through personal stories and heartfelt reflections, they paint a portrait of a leader whose greatest gift was not his accomplishments, but his humanity.

Listeners will hear how Soma’s quiet wisdom, humility, and generosity influenced entrepreneurs, colleagues, founders, and investors alike. Whether mentoring a young engineer, advising a startup founder, or helping shape one of the Pacific Northwest’s most successful venture firms, he approached every interaction with empathy, curiosity, and an unwavering desire to help others succeed.

Tim Porter shares insights into Soma’s transition from Microsoft to Madrona, his remarkable ability to listen, lead, and bring people together, and the profound role he played in building companies and supporting founders. Vetri Vellore recounts a mentorship that began with a Microsoft interview and evolved into a decades-long friendship that influenced some of the most important decisions of his entrepreneurial journey.

Above all, this episode is a celebration of a life lived in service to others. Soma’s legacy extends far beyond the companies he helped build or the investments he made. It lives on in the people he encouraged, the founders he believed in, the communities he strengthened, and the example he set through kindness, humility, and generosity.

Though his passing leaves an immeasurable void, the stories shared in this episode remind us of a simple question that many who knew him now ask themselves: “What would Soma do?” It is a fitting tribute to a man whose influence will continue to be felt for generations to come.

Brought to you by TiE Seattle
Hosts: Shirish Nadkarni and Gowri Shankar
Producers: Minee Verma and Eesha Jain
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@fromstartuptoexitpodcast