Stephen Hays is a venture capitalist, entrepreneur, and podcast host, known for his emphasis on investing in startups focused on mental health and addiction. Before diving into venture capital, Hays worked extensively in investment banking on Wall Street. He was employed at SunTrust Robinson Humphrey, J.P. Morgan, Houlihan Lokey, and UBS Investment Bank, where he gained experience in mergers & acquisitions and capital raising.

Hays is the founder and Managing Partner of What If Ventures, a VC fund that invests in startups that provide mental health and addiction treatments. He created this fund after his own personal struggles with addiction and bipolar disorder, which he overcame with the help of his family, friends and professional support. Hays is a devoted father and husband and believes in helping others find purpose & hope in life.

Additionally, Hays launched a podcast called Stigma, a series of interviews with clinicians, entrepreneurs, and people in the recovery community. The podcast aims to reduce stigma around mental health and addiction by sharing stories of people who have experienced it firsthand.

Hays has a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from United States Military Academy at West Point and a Master of Business Administration from Vanderbilt University - Owen Graduate School of Management.