fantastic info. as founder seeking cap i was overly concerned w strategic investor which would have limited market opp, i was offered notes but balked as equity would forfeit w non-repayment. ultimatey walked from a jv deal strung us out 16 mos. met an angel at cocktail 2 days later, bluffed on needing bridge loan to get a deal done, got $500k 3 days later. sealed large deal w same investor 6 mos later. would never have happened w out fudging competing offer. founders play texas hold 'em in person to prep for your lifetime elevator pitch