Let’s skip the small talk, 

The Golden State Warriors have many successful angel investors because they are in close proximity to the technology startups of San Francisco. Many Dallas Cowboys have struck gold in real estate because of the bountiful opportunities the DFW metropolitan area has provided. 

I know we are in a remote based world that allows you to work on anything, anywhere; but location matters. Where you work certainly has an influence on your career just as what you are working on. They say you are the average of your 5 closest friends. I also think you become a byproduct of the city you live in. 

San Francisco is the tech hub of the planet. Even if you’re in financial services or real estate, your clients, peers, and greater network will have some connection to the tech industry. The majority of ex-athletes I meet in SF are connected to the tech world. You cannot avoid it.

Los Angeles is media/entertainment focused. Hollywood, TV Networks, and studios are all over the place. The athletes you see on TV everyday are in and out of LA routinely. The gravity of the city orbits around acting, broadcasting, content creation, celebrities, and more. In the sports orbit, the biggest agencies are also based out of LA.

New York City is the financial hub of the world. Financial industries such as investment banking, private equity, stock trading, and insurance are commonplace. Of course these financial services are available across the country, but the orbit and energy is around the hustle financial culture you get within the city. Venture capital also has a strong presence in New York, a second hub behind San Francisco/Greater Bay Area. 

Houston is the energy hub of the country, particularly Oil and Gas. Companies like Bp, Shell, and Citgo have roots in Houston, and the port quietly drives a huge portion of its economy. Additionally, you will find there is not a better place to be sick than Houston. The cure for cancer may be found at its giant medical center, as Nurses, Doctors, and Surgeons, can be found in droves at the plethora of hospitals and medical clinics H-Town provides. 

Washington D.C. of course is the capital, and the gravity of the city revolves around politics. 

Miami…. well, aside from a trip to see Diplo at Club Space I don’t really know. There’s a lot going on there, and a lot not really going on. I will write a whole separate piece on Miami. We think Miami is a place where you thrive after you’ve already had success elsewhere:). With that being said, we have some incredible A&A community members in Miami, so shoutout to them.

Location matters.