Venture Capitalists Clash: Peter Thiel's 'Worst Investments' in Healthcare and Education Contradicted by Former Founders Fund Executive

A recent social media exchange has highlighted a stark divergence in investment philosophy within the venture capital world, particularly concerning the healthcare and education sectors. On August 24, 2025, prominent angel investor and former Founders Fund executive Andrew Brackin directly challenged a statement attributed to billionaire venture capitalist Peter Thiel, who reportedly declared that his "worst investments have been in healthcare and education."

Thiel, a co-founder of PayPal and Founders Fund, has long held a skeptical view of these sectors, often labeling higher education as a "bubble" and criticizing the inefficiencies within the U.S. healthcare system. In past remarks, he has described both as "anti-technology" for their increasing costs without commensurate improvements. His public stance suggests a preference for disruptive technologies outside these traditionally regulated and complex industries.

However, Thiel's investment portfolio, through his various funds including Founders Fund and Mithril Capital, reveals a more nuanced approach. These entities have notably backed companies such as AbCellera Biologics and Fractyl Health in the healthcare space, and previously invested in Stemcentrx. This indicates that while Thiel may voice general skepticism, his firms are willing to engage with specific ventures in these sectors that align with his analytical, contrarian investment principles.

Countering Thiel's broad assertion, Andrew Brackin, who previously served as Vice President of Business Development at Founders Fund from 2018 to 2019, stated on social media: > "my 2 best investments are in healthcare and education." He further added, "and one is backed by founders fund ;)." Brackin, an active angel investor with over 100 investments, has a direct stake in the education sector as a co-founder of General Assembly, a global education company. His investment interests also extend to biotech, which falls under healthcare.

This exchange underscores the ongoing debate within the investment community regarding the potential and pitfalls of healthcare and education. While Thiel's macro-level critique points to systemic challenges, Brackin's experience suggests that targeted, innovative investments within these essential sectors can yield significant returns, even potentially drawing support from firms closely associated with Thiel's own investment ecosystem. The contrasting perspectives illuminate the complex landscape of modern venture capital, where broad philosophical stances can coexist with strategic, opportunistic investments.