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Cody Simms

Cody Simms

Managing Partner at MCJ, host of Inevitable podcast, and co-author of Levers

Los Angeles, California
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Joined June 2024
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Summary

Cody Simms is a prominent figure in climate tech venture capital, serving as Managing Partner at MCJ. He actively backs founders driving the transition of energy and industry, demonstrating a strong commitment to addressing climate change through innovation and investment. mcj+1
With extensive experience as a product leader at major tech companies like StumbleUpon, Yahoo!, The New York Times, Sprint, and NBC Internet, Cody possesses a deep understanding of product development, strategy, and management, which he applies in his current roles and writings. mcj+1
Cody is an influential communicator in the climate space, hosting the Inevitable podcast at MCJ, where he interviews experts on energy and industry transitions. He is also a co-author of the Amazon-bestselling book 'Levers', sharing insights on building repeatable business growth. mcj+3
He is deeply involved in climate activism and community building as the co-founder of Climate Changemakers, a non-profit climate action network. His dedication extends to education, as he teaches 'Impact Investing I' at UCLA Anderson School of Management, mentoring future leaders in sustainable finance. mcj+1
Cody has a strong academic background in East Asian Languages and Culture, including intensive Mandarin Chinese study and a B.A. from the University of Kansas, demonstrating a global perspective and foundational analytical skills, complemented by a Master's from Goldsmiths College, University of London. mcj+1

Work

Education

Writing

How My Own Climate Journey Led Me to Join My Climate Journey

October 4, 2021

A Medium article reflecting on his personal journey into the climate space and his decision to join My Climate Journey.

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Overwhelmed With Building Your Business? Stop Planning and Start Prioritizing.

April 30, 2021

A Medium article, adapted from a chapter in the 'Levers' book, focusing on product prioritization and effective business building.

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Levers: The Framework for Building Repeatability into Your Business

April 1, 2021

An Amazon-bestselling book co-authored by Cody Simms, which provides a step-by-step guide to identify and move levers that unlock growth and create predictability across various business aspects.

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Why Most Product Roadmaps are a Train-wreck (and how to fix this)

March 8, 2017

A Medium article discussing common issues with product roadmaps and proposing solutions.

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7 reasons I’m stoked for Techstars Music

October 6, 2016

A Medium article outlining the reasons for his excitement about Techstars Music, focusing on the timely opportunity for music startups.

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Hobbies

Cody has a passion for surfing, though he notes he doesn't do it as often as he would like despite living in Los Angeles. linkedin

He was a four-time Kansas state tennis champion in high school.

Cody has an interest in the outdoors, as indicated by keywords on his personal website. codysimms

Notes

JJJason Jacobssaid
CSCody Simms
is one of the most thoughtful investors they know when it comes to energy resilience or renewable infrastructure.

Dec 12, 2025

GCGiuseppe Calosaid that if they needed someone to lead an ambitious, high-impact energy project,
CSCody Simms
would be at the top of their list.

Dec 9, 2025

JJJason Jacobssaid
CSCody Simms
is someone they'd consider a top growth-stage investor in the climate or energy tech space.

Oct 22, 2025

CTChris Tollessaid they've seen
CSCody Simms
consistently run a podcast that stands out for its quality or impact.

Oct 16, 2025

YLYin Lusaid
CSCody Simms
stands out as one of the most knowledgeable people they know about different startup roles, industries, or stages.

Sep 9, 2025