And regarding Ben's post: so you agree that *some* VCs act like he described at *some* times ("a small number", as you put it). He might have perhaps state more clearly that his observations don't apply to everyone all the time, but still — we shouldn't stifle all criticism in order to protect "the right ones", since this will only encourage the wrongdoers.

As you know about this part of Europe, than you probably know about the political systems we've been through (and some still are); this might be the reason why I'm so sensitive about any apparent censorship I see.

In any case, I'll use this opportunity to invite you to come and see Croatia when you have an opportunity, with the upcoming summer the perfect time; we'll grab some great local food and talk about Croatian tech startups which are very interesting and with great potential, but unfortunately with a very brief lifespan due to a chronic lack of available seed funding…

If you read my post carefully, I disagreed with Ben's view not based upon his inexperience but on mine set of experiences. I've worked with hundreds of VCs from both coasts and from my experience, the behavior Ben describes has been exhibited by a small number of them.

Lastly, I'm not trying to dispute you, and I'm incredibly happy that you took the time to join this conversation. I feel lucky that this medium allows me to interact with people from all walks of life. All four of my grandparents were born in eastern Europe and I'm very enamored with that part of the world.

Of course, blogs are a personal medium, and his views are personal as are yours. But don't make the standard mistake and try to disprove someone's views by emphasizing their "inexperience"; that's plain jealousy. And don't even think of tying to dispute me, since you know nothing about me (and no, LinkedIn will tell you nothing).

"I've heard it said that over the long run you earn the VCs you have" & "If you think of every startup as a tryout for your next startup, you may end up cultivating a much better relationship with your VCs" are two of the most insightful observations I've heard in a long time. This is great advice entrepreneurs embarking on raising capital for the first time from someone who's walked in their shoes. Thanks for sharing…

As an entrepreneur who's had some experience working at a venture shop, what Ben says rings true for some VCs, but I don't know if the proportion of challenging personalities is any higher in venture than and other highly competitive industry. The challenge of finding a good venture capitalist is the same as finding a great employee or partner – you have to work hard at finding the right fit for your personality/style/specific opportunity you're working on.

An entrepreneur has to adhere to the highest ethical standards and work hard every day to continue to earn the trust and respect from all the supporting cast of characters it takes to build and grow a successful startup. That cast includes your partners, employees, customers and the angel investors / venture capitalists who are trusting you with a great deal of money. If you think of every startup as a tryout for your next startup, you may end up cultivating a much better relationship with your VCs.

To anyone frustrated by an interaction with a VC, my advice is to take the highroad. Over the long run your success, hard work and ethical behavior will earn you the VCs you deserve.

Thanks pal, although I'd probably call it the upper-middle road. After re-reading it on PE Hub, I realize that I could have aimed a little higher. Great to see you in Denver for the RMVCA meeting and look forward to seeing you again one more time before we take off. Best, Mark