ratter

How We Won Over Top-Tier Angels

Ratter was a local news startup covering NY, SF, and LA, co-founded by a former Gawker Media editor.

The founder had secured a lead investor but lacked materials, positioning, and structure to close the rest of the seed round or launch the brand.

The Challenge

Successfully closed $1.1M round; launched brand across three cities; maintained editorial output despite later shifting to a leaner freelance model.

The Results

Strategy

Developed investor narrative, pitch deck, and financial model to articulate market opportunity and growth plan

Implemented operational infrastructure (incorporation, payroll, CMS build) to launch in three markets

Closed funding from top angels including Mark Cuban, Joanne Wilson, and Jason Calacanis

Created brand identity, logo, and messaging, working with a design firm to translate across web, social, and email

  • "She’s one of the best leaders I’ve ever worked with, fiercely guides her team and always made sure to prioritize our professional growth."

    — Direct Report, IFundWomen

  • "She acts as a force multiplier for my work, and you can't ask for much more from a leader."

    — Direct Report, Success Academy

  • "Julia is proactive and always seeks opportunities to learn about the organization, our customer, and product.”

    — Manager, Success Academy

  • "She’s a champion of strong creative work and someone who always shouts out the people who do the work."

    — Peer, Success Academy

  • "Julia takes a strategic approach and executes to high standards."

    — Peer, Success Academy

  • "She’s the best boss I’ve ever had, invested in my development even when it’s inconvenient."

    — Direct Report, SYPartners

  • "You set the strategy for your team, then articulate it clearly."

    — Peer, SYPartners

  • “There are marketers, and then there’s Julia Steele—basically the Swiss Army knife of brand growth, but sharper."

    — Co-founder, IFundWomen

  • "Extraordinary drive against our targets. Julia brings openness to new tools and consistently shares insights that drive acquisition and retention."

    — Peer, Success Academy

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