A growing number of tech founders and venture capitalists are embracing cigarette smoking, viewing it as a countercultural signal that can foster deeper connections and set them apart in a competitive industry. This trend contrasts with the general decline in smoking rates across the US and the prevalence of alternatives like vaping in the tech sector.
For venture capitalists and founders, the act of smoking can serve as an unconventional networking tool and a signal of authenticity, potentially influencing investment decisions and business relationships in a highly competitive and often guarded industry.
In an industry that often prioritizes longevity and health, a counterculture movement is emerging within the tech world where cigarette smoking is being embraced by some founders and investors. This trend is seen as a way to foster deeper personal connections, signal a more relaxed attitude, and stand out in a crowded startup landscape.
Stephen Campbell, cofounder of Revamp AI, shared an anecdote about a crucial business meeting in Shenzhen where shared cigarettes and baijiu helped transform a vendor-customer relationship into a more personal one. He described late-night sessions in karaoke bars, bonding over music with potential clients.
Jake Jolis, a general partner at Zeno Ventures, noted that founders who smoke often exhibit a laissez-faire attitude that can be attractive to investors, setting them apart from more conventional candidates. He views smoking as a sign that a founder's guard is down, potentially indicating authenticity.
Historically, smoking was more common in Silicon Valley, with figures like Intel cofounder Robert Noyce being a notable example. Today, while alternatives like vapes and nicotine pouches are prevalent, a segment of tech workers are returning to cigarettes, often smoking during coding sprints or social gatherings.
Avi Schiffmann, founder of the AI wearable Friend, admits to smoking during camera-off work meetings, even indoors, acknowledging the smell it creates. He prefers rolling his own cigarettes with Amsterdam tobacco, viewing it as a 'fun fidget' rather than a significant nicotine fix.
International cigarettes, particularly from China and Japan, are also gaining popularity among tech smokers, serving as conversation starters and souvenirs from travels.