Over a decade ago, we set out to build UpWest and create meaningful impact for seed-stage founders. Since then, many have joined us, becoming integral to our growing community.
Our retreats offer founders a unique opportunity to step back, recharge, andconnect. Through thoughtfully designed programming and a relaxed atmosphere, we foster space for reflection, learning, and genuine connection.
We can't wait to share this experience with you.
Team UpWest
Our Homebase
Lodge at Marconi
A beautifully reimagined coastal retreat set on 62 acres overlooking Tomales Bay in California's West Marin. Once a historic Marconi radio station, it’s now a serene hideaway with modern rooms, communal spaces, forested trails, fire pits, and the kind of quiet that is perfect for unplugging, thinking clearly, and connecting.
Fun Fact! The Lodge has a unique history — the site was originally built in 1914 as a radio receiving station by Guglielmo Marconi, often credited as the inventor of radio.
Opening Dinner
We’ll start the evening with a reception and drinks on the patio, then gather under the tent for a feast-style dinner together — with beautiful local ingredients, chef-driven food, excellent wine, and plenty of time to settle in, connect, and enjoy the night.
David Studbaker
As part of our Opening Night, we’re excited to welcome David Studebaker for a special comedy set.
A nationally recognized comedian, David is known for his upbeat, storytelling style inspired by real-life moments and everyday absurdities. He was named one of SF Weekly’s “10 Best Comics to Watch” and has been featured on SiriusXM, iHeartRadio, Fox, and ABC. He is also a sought-after headliner for corporate events and Princess Cruises.
Kayaking on Tomales Bay
We’ll head out for a relaxed, guided paddle on the calm waters of Tomales Bay — scenic, beginner-friendly, and a beautiful way to experience the quiet coves, shoreline, and natural beauty of Point Reyes from the water. With experienced guides and stable tandem kayaks, it’s an easy, enjoyable outing with plenty of opportunity to take in the landscape and spot local wildlife.
Founder Sessions
In our founder-led sessions, we will break into small groups to discuss some of the most pressing challenges faced by leaders of global companies today.
The topics, selected by UpWest portfolio founders, are designed to be highly relevant and actionable, providing valuable insights to enhance founders' leadership journey while offering the chance to gain practical advice and share experiences with fellow founders.
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Key discussion areas include: Building Real AI Products & Finding Your Edge; Fundraising in Today’s Market, Building The Team For The Next Stage; Focus, Priorities and Growth In The Founder Journey; and more.
Straus Home Ranch
Set on the shores of Tomales Bay, Straus Home Ranch is a beautiful, family-owned property spread across 166 acres of rolling hills and pastures in West Marin, with a long history rooted in land stewardship and preservation in the region. It will be our landing point after the kayak outing, and the setting for a chef lunch, sessions, and conversation throughout the day.
Lunch at the Ranch co-hosted by
Sparkling Mead at Heidrun
Also Heidrun Meadery is one of the most distinctive stops in West Marin, where sparkling mead is made from honey rather than grapes using the traditional French méthode champenoise. A relaxed afternoon stop, it’s a chance to sip, wander, and take in a glimpse of their unique process.
Building Moats & Scaling Smart:
Founder Session with Jono Bacon
We are excited to host Jono Bacon for an interactive workshop focused on what it takes to build real moats and scale thoughtfully in the AI era. Based on his work with 200+ companies, including GitHub, Google, GitLab, Dagger, Microsoft, and the Linux Foundation, the session will explore how founders can differentiate beyond product features, deepen customer connection, and create the kind of early user experience that drives lasting advocacy.
Founders Wine & Dine at Mabel's
Our second night’s program will take place at Mable’s, the beautiful restaurant at the Lodge at Marconi. Led by Executive Chef Les Goodman, Mable’s is known for its Mediterranean-inspired, farm-to-table approach, seasonal local ingredients, and warm, inviting atmosphere. We’ll gather there for a special dinner together — with excellent food, great wine, and just a really good vibe all around.
Morning Yoga Flows
We’re excited to offer morning yoga flows as part of our event, designed to promote relaxation and wellness. The sessions will be led by Mary Kate McCartney (E-RYT 500 Vinyasa & Kundalini Yoga, CMT), a seasoned instructor with over 20 years of experience. Mary Kate has been teaching since 2008 and currently leads teacher trainings, retreats, and weekly classes at Lodge at Marconi.
AGENDA
Wednesday, May 6
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​11:00 AM - 12:15 | Pick Up: Palo Alto → SF→ Tomales Bay
11:00 AM | Palo Alto pick-up | UpWest Office
12:15 PM | SF pick-up |
2:00 PM | Arrival at Lodge At Marconi | Welcome to Tomales Bay +Hotel Check-In
4:00 PM | Optional Guided Trail Walk (~3-mile loop)
6:30 PM - 10:00 PM | Opening Night | co-hosted by
Welcome Reception
Sommeliers' Soiree
Founders Dinner
Guest Performance: David Studbaker
9:30 PM | Fire Pit & S'mores
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Thursday, May 7​​
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7:00-7:45 AM | Morning Yoga Flow
*optional. pre-sign-up required
7:45 AM - 8:30 AM | Breakfast
9:30 AM - 4:00 PM | Puddle & Connect | Straus Ranch
Kayaking on Tomales Bay
Founders Sessions
Lunch Sparkling Mead | co-hosted by
4:30 PM - 6:30 PM | Rest & Recharge
6:00 PM - 10:00 PM | Founders Wine & Dine | Mabel's (LAM)
Fireside Chat:
Founder Dinner
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Friday, May 8
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7:00 - 7:45 AM | Morning Yoga Flow
*optional. pre-sign-up required
7:45 AM - 8:30 AM | Breakfast
8:45 AM - 9:30 AM | Pack up & Check out
9:45 AM - 11:15 | Building Moats & Scaling Smart: Founder Session with Jono Bacon​
11:15-11:30 AM | Closing Circle
12:00 PM | Lunch | Hog Island Farm
1:00 PM | Departure: Tomales Bay → SF→Palo Alto
SF drop-off |
Palo Alto drop-off | UpWest Office
