I’m John Donboli, and friends and colleagues call me JD. I live in San Diego, California, and I own a business that works with creators and local brands.

Education

I hold a Juris Doctor degree. I have been accepted to the MBA program at the University of San Diego and deferred my enrollment to take care of family commitments. I plan to begin when circumstances allow, and I will update this page the day I do.

My legal status

I am not currently licensed to practice law, and nothing on this site is legal advice. I mention my law degree because it is part of my education and my story, not because it authorizes me to represent anyone.

What I write about

The JDJDMBA series follows the path from a law degree to an MBA. My other writing covers the practical side of business: how I evaluate an early-stage startup, why power laws shape venture returns, how SAFEs, notes and priced rounds differ, and a first-pass due diligence checklist. I also write about brand building and working with creators.

In conversation

A free series for first-time founders

I also created The First Raise Series, a free six-part learning series on whether to raise money, what investors look for, and how a first raise works.

How to reach me

Use the contact page or find me on LinkedIn.