Kevin Rose last spoke at Disrupt in 2012, when Digg was navigating one of the most discussed pivots in tech. Over a decade later, he returns to TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, happening from October 27 to 29 at San Francisco’s Moscone West. He will discuss the experience of relaunching Digg alongside Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian. He will also share the lessons he learned about product development, community building, and navigating challenges during that time.
But Rose’s story extends far beyond Digg. In the past decade, he has become one of Silicon Valley’s most active early-stage investors. He backs category-defining startups in consumer technology, crypto, and other fields. As a partner at True Ventures, Rose combines his firsthand founder experience with his investing expertise.
At this essential Disrupt Stage session, learn how to execute a pivot when it matters most, even when it is unexpected.
Kevin Rose is the founding CEO of Digg and now serves as its board chair, investor, and advisor during its latest reboot. His entrepreneurial career includes multiple startups such as Revision3, Zero, Oak, and PROOF. He has also served as CEO of Hodinkee and was a general partner at Google Ventures, where he invested in breakout companies like Uber, Slack, and Nextdoor. As an angel investor, his portfolio includes Twitter, Facebook, Solana, OpenAI, and Magic Spoon. Recognized by Bloomberg as a top angel investor, he has been featured in Forbes, Time, and MIT’s publications for his impact on technology and media.
Rose also hosts The Kevin Rose Show and co-hosts The Random Show with Tim Ferriss, where he shares insights on startups, investing, and personal growth. Beyond technology, he is a dedicated Zen meditation practitioner, a practice that influences his approach to entrepreneurship and investing.
In this fireside chat, Rose will explain how he evaluates founders, identifies emerging opportunities, and applies lessons from his own entrepreneurial journey to his current investing. Expect candid insights on what it truly takes to build and support enduring companies, from managing pivots under pressure to finding conviction in a crowded market.
TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 will gather more than 10,000 founders, investors, and operators. This event features over 250 leaders from companies like Netflix, Box, a16z, ElevenLabs, Wayve, Sequoia Capital, and Elad Gil, leading more than 200 sessions designed to deliver insights that fuel startup growth.
Do not miss the chance to hear from Kevin Rose live on the Disrupt Stage. Secure your ticket today and save up to $668 before the discounted pricing ends on September 26 at 11:59 PM PT. The event takes place in San Francisco from October 27 to 29, 2025.