This Week in Startups: Recent Episodes
Jason Calacanis
Every day, Jason Calacanis and Molly Wood cover startups, technology, markets, media, crypto, and the all the hottest topics in business and tech. They also interview the world’s greatest founders, operators, investors and innovators.
Figure’s 03 Chore-bot, Jake Paul Sora takeover, ChatGPT app integrations, and more | E2191
Today’s show:
Figure’s butler-bot could be cleaning up after you soon than you think!
On a Friday TWiST, Jason and Lon are checking out the Figure 03 demo reel, checking out the humanoid robot that could soon be hanging out in your house, doing your chores.
Lon’s a bit skeptical that full-sized Westworld drones will soon be on everyone’s home but the technology is obviously moving forward at a rapid clip and cutting-edge AI models are making the bots smarter than ever.
PLUS… what will be the impact of Presidents Trump and Xi’s new fight over rare earth minerals? Why are Jake Paul and Mark Cuban starring in SO MANY Sora clips? How well do these ChatGPT app integrations work, and why are they going to free users first? And much much more, on a can’t-miss new TWiST
Timestamps:
(0:00) Figure’s humanoid and its new capabilities
(2:15) Show start: Jason welcomes co-host Lon Harris
(6:24) The global dependency on China for rare earth minerals
(9:48) .TECH: Say it without saying it. Head to get.tech/twist or your favorite registrar to get a clean, sharp .tech domain today.
(10:54) Sora, AI likeness & deepfakes
(17:05) DEMO: Producer Oliver showcases ChatGPT's new integrations!
(19:45) Northwest Registered Agent - Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
(27:54) The future of AI: Will there be thousands of app integrations?
(30:41) Alphasense - Get deeper insights into your business with the power of AI search and market intelligence. Start with a free trial at https://www.alpha-sense.com/twist
(33:44) Discussing Reflection AI: A new American open-source model
(40:35) Reddit Rapid Response: Why young professionals should work in the office
(47:50) How AI is eliminating entry-level jobs & the need for executive training
(54:15) Jason's pitch to shut down the USPS and turn post offices into nursery schools
(58:25) Jason shares his personal journey with GLP-1s & Ro.co
(1:01:05) The Figure One robot: New video and future potential
(1:04:20) How LLMs are the key to unlocking humanoid robot capabilities
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
- .TECH: Say it without saying it. Head to get.tech/twist or your favorite registrar to get a clean, sharp .tech domain today.
- Northwest Registered Agent - Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
- Alphasense - Get deeper insights into your business with the power of AI search and market intelligence. Start with a free trial at https://www.alpha-sense.com/twist
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Today’s show:
*Zach Dell of Base Power joins us at the top of today’s show to talk about building batteries in Austin, that $1 billion investment, and why an “all of the above” energy strategy is the only way forward.
PLUS Jason and Alex’s thoughts on that Tesla non-upside down car announcement, growing resentments toward AI datacenters, Chinese robots actually going on sale, Tim Cook’s potential Apple exit, xAI’s Nvidia agreement and MUCH MORE.
Timestamps:
(00:02:10) A MAJOR GUEST! Zach Dell of Base Power joins us from the top of the show.
(00:03:31) The basics of Base Power’s business model: the best electron is the cheapest electron
(00:08:38) Zach teases Base’s new, time-saving approach to battery installation
(00:10:32) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(00:18:12) How Base’s grid can help drive down overall energy prices
(00:21:17) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(00:30:12) Sentry - New users get 3 months free of the Business plan (covers 150k errors). Go to http://sentry.io/twist and use code TWIST
(00:36:20) Tesla did not announce an upside fan car… Oh well…
(00:44:27) Buy your Chinese robot TODAY on Walmart dot com? Or not!
(00:48:12) Is Tim Apple EXITING Apple? Who’s next?
(00:59:22) ANOTHER mega-deal? Now xAI is circling a Nvidia investment…
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
- Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
- Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
- Sentry - New users get 3 months free of the Business plan (covers 150k errors). Go to http://sentry.io/twist and use code TWIST
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Everything’s going great here at This Week in Startups — and we’re expanding! As we launch a brand new podcast next year, we’re looking to bring on two new creative roles:
Video Editor — Full-time or part-time, remote or in-person (Austin). If you love startups and tech and you’re skilled at editing, this is your shot. Send your portfolio to editor@launch.co.
Short-Form Video Editor (CapCut) — Help us create top-tier TikToks, Reels, and YouTube Shorts from our podcast content. If you’re great with CapCut and have a feel for viral startup content, email capcut@launch.co.
We don’t care about degrees or titles — just talent, creativity, and passion for startups. Competitive pay, flexible hours, and the chance to work with one of the top startup shows in the world.
Apply now:
- Video Editor → editor@launch.co
- Shorts Editor → capcut@launch.co
startups #hiring #videoediting #podcast #ThisWeekInStartups #tech
Today’s show:
*How many weirdly circular mega-deals is OpenAI going to sign this year?
On a new TWiST, Jason and Alex consider OpenAI’s latest agreement with AMD, how the biggest American companies keep trading cash and chips back and forth, and whether or not the entire AI economy might be a house of cards.
PLUS what kind of fan/leafblower tech is Tesla working on… what can Jevons Paradox tell us about the AI landscape… how easy is it to master games in the YC Arena… and WHY has NASA never built a base on the moon? We’re asking the TOUGH QUESTIONS so you don’t have to, only on the #1 tech podcast, “This Week in Startups.”
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex open the show discussing hunting and traditional Texas meat exchanges
(2:16) ANOTHER weirdly circular OpenAI mega-deal? How many mega-deals can one company MAKE?
(3:50) Are all these “bizarre” OpenAI deals creating a house of cards?
(10:00) Stripe Startups - Stripe Startups offers early-stage, venture-backed startups access to Stripe fee credits and more. Apply today on stripe.com/startups.
(20:00) Oracle - Try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://oracle.com/twist
(21:14) Is the Tesla Roadster 2 coming soon? Or maybe a leaf blower?!
(22:00) Datacenters in space! Is it getting crowded up there?
(26:22) Why no moon base yet? Jason demands a moon base.
(27:00) We’re playing games in the YC Arena… Can Jason guess which pitches got accepted?
(30:00) Coda - Empower your startup with Coda’s Team plan for free—get 6 months at https://www.Coda.io/twist
(32:00) How Jason picks companies to invest in, based on a few signals and metrics
(04500) We found out what Figure’s bots are actually doing for BMW
(53:00) Sharpies figured out how to make their pens here in the US… who’s next?!
(57:00) Could ChatGPT really replace Deloitte consultants? Considering the latest controversy…
(01:03:29) It’s another Gamma Pitch: Welcome Ryan Yannelli of NextVisit AI, which helps therapists take notes
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
- Stripe Startups - Stripe Startups offers early-stage, venture-backed startups access to Stripe fee credits and more. Apply today on stripe.com/startups.
- Oracle - Try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://oracle.com/twist
- Coda - Empower your startup with Coda’s Team plan for free—get 6 months at https://www.Coda.io/twist
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
Is Sora not just a copyright-killer but a TikTok-killer? Hear our review!
The “This Week in Startups” team has been playing around inside OpenAI’s viral app, which just hit #1 in the iOS Store. See all of Lon’s creations, explore the land beyond the Uncanny Valley, and find out why the hottest new social app could stand to be a bit more social.
PLUS Brave surpasses 100M MAUs… why Jason would sell ALL his OpenAI shares right away, Apple pulls the ICEBlock app from the App Store, AND how one founder hacked his local coffee shop to network and even get face time with a few VCs! It’s all happening of a fast-paced Friday TWiST.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Why Jason started an Executive Training program at LAUNCH
(05:17) Perplexity’s Comet browser is now FREE to use; Jason unpacks their strategy
(10:02) Monarch Money - Get 50% Off Monarch Money, the all-in-one financial tool at www.monarchmoney.com/TWIST
(13:42) PLUS browser/search engine Brave passed 100M MAUs!
(17:44) How a founder “hacked” his local coffee shop
(20:06) Alphasense - Get deeper insights into your business with the power of AI search and market intelligence. Start with a free trial at https://www.alpha-sense.com/twist
(21:35) You need to make it EASY for people to give you feedback!
(25:41) A look at the leanest startups around and how companies are doing more with less
(30:11) LinkedIn Ads: Start converting your B2B audience into high quality leads today. We’ll even give you a $100 credit on your next campaign. Go to http://LinkedIn.com/ThisWeekinStartups to claim your credit.
(30:38) Why Jason would sell ALL his OpenAI shares right away!
(38:56) Lon stops by to review the Sora app; the good, the bad, and the remixes!
(48:45) Apple pulled the ICEBlock app… is this a free speech issue?
(56:11) A new startup wants to fight gov’t corruption… and keep a share of the proceeds
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
- Monarch Money - Get 50% Off Monarch Money, the all-in-one financial tool at www.monarchmoney.com/TWIST
- Alphasense - Get deeper insights into your business with the power of AI search and market intelligence. Start with a free trial at https://www.alpha-sense.com/twist
- LinkedIn Ads: Thanks to our partner @LinkedInMktg. Start converting your B2B audience into high quality leads today. We’ll even give you a $100 credit on your next campaign. Go to http://LinkedIn.com/ThisWeekinStartups to claim your credit.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
Sora 2 will generate a video of whatever you like and respects no IP (unless they opt out)
On a brand new TWiST, Jason and Alex check out Sora 2, the latest text-to-video app from TWiST 500 mainstays OpenAI, and look at some of the video videos that have already emerged from the TikTok-style scrolling video app. (TikSlop?)
THEN we’re considering the case of “AI actress” Tilly Norwood, and whether her big debut is a legit shift in the world of entertainment or just a marketing gimmick-slash-sales pitch.PLUS Jason’s thoughts on the Wealthfront IPO, how Spotify shifted the entire music economy, Jason’s pitch for making bets with stock purchases, why Americans need more financial literacy, AND another check-in with the sharps over at Polymarket.
Timestamps:
(0:00) What does the government shutdown mean for startups? Not much?
(04:21) Jason’s an investor in Wealthfront… hear his thoughts on their potential IPO
(08:14) Why Jason thinks the death of Boomers will boost crypto
(10:21) Northwest Registered Agent - Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
(17:26) Why is everyone so excited for Sora… but not Meta’s app?
(19:49) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech
(28:38) Is Tilly Norwood just a gimmick or Hollywood’s next hot ingenue?
(29:15) Perspective.ai - Real insights, straight from your customers, and your first two months are on us. Just go to getperspective.ai/twist.
(35:58) POLYMARKET: When is OpenAI’s browser coming out?!
(40:17) How Spotify changed the entire economy of music… and when a Founder/CEO should hang it up.
(47:24) Why Jason thinks Americans need better financial education and literacy
(49:39) Audience Q: What’s the best place to buy secondaries?
(52:49) Why you should bet small while you’re learning
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
- Northwest Registered Agent - Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
- CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech
- Perspective.ai - Real insights, straight from your customers, and your first two months are on us. Just go to getperspective.ai/twist.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
How do you get investors excited about jets when they’re hyper-focused on new AI tools?
In a fresh TWiST 500 interview, Alex sits down with Blake Scholl of Boom Supersonic to talk about the Overture, the world’s fastest plane that recently broke the sound barrier over the Mojave Desert. (That’s a first for a private company, rather than a military or government.)
Hear about the secrets to avoiding a noisy and disruptive sonic boom, using satellites to set the most efficient routes, designing the Overture’s complex engine, dispelling the common myth that hardware startups are money pits and much much more.
PLUS we’ve got two brand new companies entering our Gamma Pitch Deck Competition. Time to see how they stack up to our first impressive entrant, Where2Wheel.
Timestamps:
(02:22) Introducing Blake Scholl from Boom Supersonic
(04:03) How Boom is improving on the classic Concorde experience
(08:29) How hyper-fast Overture flights could change passenger behavior
(10:02) Gusto. Check out the online payroll and benefits experts with software built specifically for small business and startups. Try Gusto today and get three months FREE at Gusto.com/twist.
(11:10) The long road to breaking the speed barrier
(14:34) How satellites could help guide Boom’s planes
(16:37) The next milestones to check off Blake’s list
(19:13) Breaking up the jet engine duopoly
(20:57) Nexos.ai Stop Shadow AI in its tracks with the unified platform for secure AI adoption and productivity. Try it with a free 14-day trial at nexos.ai/twist.
(24:28) How 3D printing speeds up the R&D process
(30:26) DevStats translates complex engineering metrics into a shared language everyone at your company can understand. Get 20% off by going to https://www.DevStats.com/twist(34:10) Gamma Pitch Deck Competition: Confy vs. The Drive AI
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
- Gusto. Check out the online payroll and benefits experts with software built specifically for small business and startups. Try Gusto today and get three months FREE at Gusto.com/twist.
- Nexos.ai Stop Shadow AI in its tracks with the unified platform for secure AI adoption and productivity. Try it with a free 14-day trial at nexos.ai/twist.
- DevStats translates complex engineering metrics into a shared language everyone at your company can understand. Get 20% off by going to https://www.DevStats.com/twist
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
Friend’s new AI pendant just wants to be your new pal. So why do New Yorkers hate them?
On a brand-new TWiST, Jason and Alex consider the Friend AI pendant, which listens to everything you say all day and then sends you snarky texts about it.
WIRED says it’s unhelpful and will make your friends hate you. New Yorkers are so sick of their aggressive subway ads, they’re tagging them with graffiti. But what do Jason and Alex think of the wearable companion?
PLUS the value of bringing your last team with you to your new project… why partnerships often lead to purchases… Producer Claude got an upgrade… two fresh TWiST 500 companies… the rise and fall and further fall of Tai Lopez… AND Jason explains the rules of private jets.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason congratulations the Eagles while wondering what’s going on with Philly fans
(03:23) New Yorkers are not in love with these Friend AI pendants and their subway ads
(10:08) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(11:28) Show Continues…
(13:49) Are people actually using AI agents? Is it still too early?
(17:01) Startup Lesson: The value of bringing your last team with you
(19:27) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(20:43) Anthropic released the new Claude… can they catch back up with Grok?
(27:13) Why Circle’s community app is blowing up all of the sudden
(29:23) AWS Activate - AWS Activate helps startups bring their ideas to life. Apply to AWS Activate today to learn more. Visit https://www.aws.amazon.com/startups/credits
(30:48) How startups SHOULD measure growth and profitability. And why you need to show your work.
(36:42) Why human writers are about to be MORE valuable in the age of AI Slop.
(42:20) TWO new startups are joining the TWiST 500… Jason’s thoughts on Phia and Huxe
(46:23) Influencer and bookshelf haver Tai Lopez is under investigation by the SEC! A look back at a viral superstar…
(54:11) Jason explains the rules of flying in private jets
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
- Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
- Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
- AWS Activate - AWS Activate helps startups bring their ideas to life. Apply to AWS Activate today to learn more. Visit https://www.aws.amazon.com/startups/credits
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
Factory, a Sequoia-backed producer of AI agents for programming, raised $50 million at a $300 million valuation. So Jason and Alex are wondering… how much capital is TOO MUCH?
We’re going deep on a question that often perplexes founders: How would weigh a HUGE potential market against STIFF pre-existing competition.
PLUS that Neon app that records your calls deleted itself, why AI ISN’T taking away all the radiology jobs yet, how inherent biases impact everyone’s view of the economy, ChatGPT may be getting ads very soon, and MUCH MUCH MORE.
Timestamps:
(0:00) The Neon app: why would anyone let an app record all of their phone calls?
(04:43) Another -slop term… What is THINKSLOP?!
(09:46) .TECH: Say it without saying it. Head to get.tech/twist or your favorite registrar to get a clean, sharp .tech domain today.
(11:25) Why is TikTok US only worth $14 billion?!
(17:10) Wait, why ISN’T AI taking jobs away from radiologists?
(20:06) Public - Take your investing to the next level with Public. Build a multi-asset portfolio and earn 4.1% APY on your cash—with no fees or minimums. Start now at public.com/twist
(28:38) How can xAI afford to sell AI to the US gov’t for 42 cents?
(29:37) Alphasense - Get deeper insights into your business with the power of AI search and market intelligence. Start with a free trial at https://www.alpha-sense.com/twist
(33:44) How inherent biases impact everyone’s view of the economy.
(46:29) Why is everyone dunking on Meta’s new SlopTok app?
(53:37) It certainly seems like ChatGPT is going to get ads soon…
(03:49) The first entry in our Gamma Pitch Deck Competition is II off-roading marketplace Where2Wheel
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
- .TECH: Say it without saying it. Head to get.tech/twist or your favorite registrar to get a clean, sharp .tech domain today.
- Public - Take your investing to the next level with Public. Build a multi-asset portfolio and earn 4.1% APY on your cash—with no fees or minimums. Start now at public.com/twist
- Alphasense - Get deeper insights into your business with the power of AI search and market intelligence. Start with a free trial at https://www.alpha-sense.com/twist
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
What is “workslop”? And is it already slowing you down at the office?
On a new This Week in Startups, we’ve got full co-host quorum with JCal, Alex, AND Lon tackling a meaty docket of news at the cross-section of tech, startups, and pop culture.
For starters: A new Harvard/Stanford study suggests that AI isn’t massively improving workplace efficiency because SOME workers aren’t using it properly. Are low-quality, lazily-assembled AI outputs costing US enterprises millions in lost productivity? It’s certainly possible based on these results.
PLUS, why YouTube invited back all those banned creators… a deep-dive into CA’s new social media law that’s dividing tech and civil rights advocacy groups… what we can learn from Stripe’s mega-share buyback… a look at what Polymarket’s sharps think will happen with the US TikTok deal… and much more.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Intro. What will South Park have to say about prediction markets?
(06:06) Alibaba’s new AI model will turn you into any celebrity… can you still believe what you see?
(09:49) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(11:03) Show Continues…
(19:42) AWS Activate - AWS Activate helps startups bring their ideas to life. Apply to AWS Activate today to learn more. Visit https://www.aws.amazon.com/startups/credits
(21:02) Is CA’s new proposed law a boon for civil rights, or a weapon against free speech?
(29:47) Northwest Registered Agent - Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!(32:21) Why YouTube invited banned creators back
(41:24) What is Workslop? And is it costing companies MILLIONS?
(48:42) PolyMarket asks… when will the US TikTok deal go down?
(52:27) Would Jason invest in Tether?
(01:01:29) Why Stripe is buying back so many shares… and what the future may hold.
(01:12:16) Another Reddit Rapid Response: should startups do pilot programs?
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Follow Lon:
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Thank you to our partners:
- Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
- AWS Activate - AWS Activate helps startups bring their ideas to life. Apply to AWS Activate today to learn more. Visit https://www.aws.amazon.com/startups/credits
- Northwest Registered Agent - Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
New proposal on H-1B visas… and it’s pretty similar to Jason’s pitch from last month!
On a new TWiST, Jason and Lon wonder if the White House is watching the pod and borrowing some of our best ideas! Specifically, the new $100K H-1B visa proposal sounds a lot like Jason’s suggestion from August… with a few significant tweaks.
PLUS we’re looking at the latest news about the US TikTok entity, why Jason’s not concerned about the new algorithm, the explosion of major data centers in Scandinavia, the European Commission’s scaling back of anti-cookie regulations, AND the first big marketing push from virtual assistant startup Howie! That’s a packed show!
Timestamps:
(0:00) Alex is out today so Jason and Lon introduce the show.
(04:11) Did they borrow their new H-1B visa proposal from JCal?
(10:10) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(11:28) Show Continues…
(19:21) Public - Take your investing to the next level with Public. Build a multi-asset portfolio and earn 4.1% APY on your cash—with no fees or minimums. Start now at public.com/twist
(20:28) Show Continues…
(26:42) Answering YOUR pressing H-1B questions.
(30:13) Stripe Startups - Stripe Startups offers early-stage, venture-backed startups access to Stripe fee credits and more. Apply today on stripe.com/startups.
(31:30) Show Continues…
(32:51) The Murdochs are likely joining the TikTok deal…
(34:38) Why Jason’s not concerned about TikTok being in the hands of mostly Trump allies
(39:29) A look inside the Nordic data center boom and why it’s happening
(01:03:32) Checking out Howie’s first ad… how much did it cost to make?
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Thank you to our partners:
- Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
- Public - Take your investing to the next level with Public. Build a multi-asset portfolio and earn 4.1% APY on your cash—with no fees or minimums. Start now at public.com/twist
- Stripe Startups - Stripe Startups offers early-stage, venture-backed startups access to Stripe fee credits and more. Apply today on stripe.com/startups.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
On an action-packed TWiST, Alex and Jason check out Meta’s latest wearables, which promise to fix the “constantly staring down at your phone” problem and prevent you from blocking that little light letting others know you’re filming them. Think the upgrade is worth $799 of your hard-earned money?
PLUS, Lovable CEO Anton Osika stops by to answer YOUR questions, talk about how people are using the iconic vibecoding app, balancing accessibility and user engagement with the need to actually bring in revenue, and why Stockholm has become arguably Europe’s leading tech hub.
AND Beehiiv joins with Discord, Google bakes Gemini into Chrome, and MORE of the week’s biggest tech news. Check out all this and more in a brand-new “This Week in Startups”!
Timestamps:
(0:00) Why Jason thinks Meta’s new $799 Smart Ray Bans, which covertly record people in 3K, are creepy!
(04:14) Why, in the technology business, not quitting is how you succeed.
(09:47) .TECH: Say it without saying it. Head to get.tech/twist or your favorite registrar to get a clean, sharp .tech domain today.
(10:54) Show Continues…
(17:02) Anton Osika from Lovable calls in from Stockholm: Why he thinks it’s Europe’s biggest tech hub.
(20:37) Sentry - New users get 3 months free of the Business plan (covers 150k errors). Go to http://sentry.io/twist and use code TWIST
(21:44) A look at Lovable’s new security features, to make founders feel more confident in their vibe coding
(27:31) How Lovable is balancing engagement with the need to make money
(29:55) Alphasense - Get deeper insights into your business with the power of AI search and market intelligence. Start with a free trial at https://www.alpha-sense.com/twist
(31:03) Show Continues…
(42:29) Anton’s tactical advice for founders who want to build a community around their product.
(49:14) A viewer asks: Is vibe coding CHEATING?
(59:01) Google is baking Gemini into Chrome… but how will it work? And what about privacy?
(01:05:05) Beehiiv links up with Discord. Why Alex has a few concerns!
(01:11:01) Responding to some of YOUR comments. (Leave us reviews and comments on Apple and Spotify!)
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Thank you to our partners:
.TECH: Say it without saying it. Head to get.tech/twist or your favorite registrar to get a clean, sharp .tech domain today.
Sentry - New users get 3 months free of the Business plan (covers 150k errors). Go to http://sentry.io/twist and use code TWIST
Alphasense - Get deeper insights into your business with the power of AI search and market intelligence. Start with a free trial at https://www.alpha-sense.com/twist
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
Jason sits down with Wilson Sonsini partner Chris Paniewski for part two of our Startup Legal Basics series on AI law — this time tackling the question every founder is asking: who owns the output of AI systems?
Chris has advised on some of the biggest AI deals in history, and in this episode he helps break down how intellectual property law is colliding with generative AI.
Jason and Chris cover:
- What kinds of IP rights might apply to AI-generated output (copyrights, patents, trade secrets)
- Why human authorship is central to copyright law
- Whether prompts are protectable IP
- How GenAI platforms’ terms of service affect ownership
- Real-world examples from Star Wars to Wirecutter to Warhol
- What startups should document when using AI in development
- How investors diligence AI companies on IP strategy
If you’re a founder, investor, or operator trying to understand how to responsibly use AI without losing your IP, this conversation is essential.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason introduces part two of Startup Legal Basics with Chris Paniewski
(1:20) Star Wars example: using LLMs to generate existing IP
(3:10) Human authorship requirement in copyright law
(5:25) Prompts, super-prompts, and the role of creative control
(7:45) Photography analogy & the “monkey selfie” case
(10:00) Patents, inventorship, and AI-generated inventions
(12:05) Startups balancing speed to market vs. protectable IP
(14:15) How to layer human creativity on top of AI output
(16:20) Fair use, derivative works, and investor diligence
*
Check Out Wilson Sonsini: https://www.wsgr.com
Check out all of the Startup Basics episodes here: https://thisweekinstartups.com/basics
*
Follow Chris:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-paniewski-09331a59/
*
Follow Jason:
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Today’s show:
Hear why Eric Jackson thinks Opendoor is the new Carvana, and how he’s planning to bring Drake on board as an investor (plus Jason’s Bestie Chamath).
On a brand-new TWiST, Jason and Alex are chatting with Jackson of EMJ Capital about his hunt for elusive 100 baggers (stocks that return 100-to-1).
PLUS we’re chatting with Weave Robotics’ Kaan Doğrusöz about designing practical domestic robots RIGHT NOW, rather than prototypes for 2030. Hear about how they got Isaac to fold laundry like a pro.
All that and… how Jason would turn around TechCrunch, why board members should always have skin in the game, that Waymo motorcycle accident, AND Uber and Tesla’s first team-up to haul freight!
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason is worried about the next generation facing the end of apprenticeship; here’s his advice for young workers
(10:24) Northwest Registered Agent - Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
(11:30) Kaan Doğrusöz of Weave Robotics joins to talk about getting his laundry-folding robot, Isaac, into customer’s homes
(18:01) Isaac doesn’t have hands; here’s how Weave makes it work with grippers
(20:44) Stripe Startups - Stripe Startups offers early-stage, venture-backed startups access to Stripe fee credits and more. Apply today on stripe.com/startups.
(21:48) Show Continues…
(24:51) Checking out some of Weave’s competitors… how did they settle on Isaac’s design?
(30:01) Miro - Help your teams get great done with Miro. Check out miro.com to find out how!
(31:10) What’s going on with TikTok?
(36:15) Jason’s pitch is “BOYA”: Bring Your Own Algorithm
(38:54) Eric Jackson of EMJ Capital stops by to talk up $OPEN and why he wants Drake to invest
(40:14) Eric’s early YouTube career as an activist Yahoo! Investor
(44:42) Lessons Eric learned from Carvana and how that informed his $OPEN bet
(01:00:30) Why bringing Keith Rabois back was Eric’s ultimate dream for Opendoor
(01:03:02) Why board members should always have “skin in the game” and why $OPEN wants Chamath back
(01:07:26) Tesla and Uber are finally working together… They said it was impossible!
(01:09:31) A look at YouTube’s new AI podcasting features
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Follow Lon:
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Thank you to our partners:
- Northwest Registered Agent - Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
- Stripe Startups - Stripe Startups offers early-stage, venture-backed startups access to Stripe fee credits and more. Apply today on stripe.com/startups.
- Miro - Help your teams get great done with Miro. Check out miro.com to find out how!
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
On a special edition of TWiST, Alex presents a trio of TWiST 500 interviews.
First up, Medium CEO Tony Stubblebine on the company’s new Really Simple Licensing (or RSL) initiative, and how it’s helping to compensate writers for their content.
THEN, Human Native CEO Dr. James Smith joins for an even deeper dive on AI licensing, why a writer’s content isn’t just DATA to them, and why the company is pivoting away from its old marketplace model.
FINALLY, Jason Marks of TELO Trucks stops by to show off his EV mini-truck, walk us through why people need a powerful but tiny truck, and explain why they’re building trucks right here in the US of A.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Intro: It’s a trio of TWiST 500 interviews today!
(02:57) Alex chats with Medium CEO Tony Stubblebine
(04:54) Why Medium’s more worried about HIDING from AI than anything else
(10:24) Nexos.ai. Stop Shadow AI in its tracks with the unified platform for secure AI adoption and productivity. Try it with a free 14-day trial at nexos.ai/twist.
(11:27) Show Continues…
(15:02) What is RSL and why aren’t AI companies offering publishers a good value?
(19:58) Gusto. Check out the online payroll and benefits experts with software built specifically for small business and startups. Try Gusto today and get three months FREE at Gusto.com/twist.
(20:59) Show Continues…
(22:03) How Medium calculates its revenue split with writers
(26:57) Alex welcomes Human Native CEO/founder Dr. James Smith.
(27:34) Writers see their content as their life’s work, but tech co’s just see DATA
(30:01) DevStats translates complex engineering metrics into a shared language everyone at your company can understand. Get 20% off by going to DevStats.com/twist
(31:06) Show Continues…
(33:01) Why H.N. is pivoting away from licensing and the marketplace model
(47:23) TELO Trucks CEO Jason Marks joins the show
(48:25) What is a “mini-truck” and why they’re TELO’s focus
(52:28) Why TELO is building their EV trucks right here in the US
(54:42) Why towing capacity still matters, even on a mini-truck
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Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
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X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
Nexos.ai. Stop Shadow AI in its tracks with the unified platform for secure AI adoption and productivity. Try it with a free 14-day trial at nexos.ai/twist.
Gusto. Check out the online payroll and benefits experts with software built specifically for small business and startups. Try Gusto today and get three months FREE at Gusto.com/twist.
DevStats translates complex engineering metrics into a shared language everyone at your company can understand. Get 20% off by going to DevStats.com/twist
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
There are new LAUNCH Accelerator and Founder U cohorts this week, and Jason’s running down some of his favorite new startups.
PLUS Alphabet is the latest member of the $3T club, why Eric Schmidt was SO RIGHT about remote work, Robinhood is opening up private companies to more investors, Polymarket adds earnings reports, how Jason wagered on The Emmys this year, and MORE!
Timestamps:
(0:00) It’s kickoff day for LAUNCH Accelerator 35 AND Founder University!
(02:32) Let’s talk about some new companies. Jason runs down the LA35 line-up and why he’s excited about these awesome startups.
(10:33) OpenPhone - Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(11:57) Show Continues…
(19:50) Squarespace - Turn your idea into a beautiful website! Go to http://www.squarespace.com/twist for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
(21:05) Show Continues…
(27:43) Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers and get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(28:58) Looking back at Jason’s solar energy rematch vs. Energy Sec. Chris Wright.
(31:23) Why Jason thinks solar power (+nuclear) is the future.
(41:03) Why Alphabet is the latest member of the $3 trillion market cap club.
(46:40) Jason says Eric Schmidt was right about work from home culture
(48:51) How Robinhood is giving everyday investors access to private companies
(51:44) Polymarket introduces prediction markets for corporate earnings.
(53:58) Why Jason loves prediction markets… and how he gambled on the Emmys this year.
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
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Follow Lon:
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Thank you to our partners:
OpenPhone - Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
Squarespace - Turn your idea into a beautiful website! Go to http://www.squarespace.com/twist for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers and get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
On Friday’s TWiST, Jason, Alex, and Lon look back at some highlights from this week’s big All-In Summit in Los Angeles, including a fiery, no holds barred presentation from Palantir CEO Alex Karp, Elon Musk delving into the key challenges facing Optimus, and Tucker Carlson debating Mark Cuban on Ukraine. PLUS… why schools may start blocking social media apps, the FTC’s new investigation into social chatbots, AND omnidirectional Zoox robotaxis are headed to Las Vegas.
Timestamps:
- Welcome back to TWiST!
- (1:52) Jason’s thoughts on the killing of Charlie Kirk
- (10:34) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
- (10:52) Show Continues …
- (12:15) Reacting to All-In Summit highlights (Elon Musk, Alex Karp, Tucker Carlson, Mark Cuban)
- (21:23) AWS Activate - AWS Activate helps startups bring their ideas to life. Apply to AWS Activate today to learn more. Visit https://www.aws.amazon.com/startups/credits
- (22:18) Show Continues …
- (26:09) Palantir, Alex Karp, and debate dynamics
- (31:03) Public - Take your investing to the next level with Public. Build a multi-asset portfolio and earn 4.1% APY on your cash—with no fees or minimums. Start now at public.com/twist
- (32:13) Show Continues …
- (45:03) How the internet used AI tools to make sense of Charlie Kirk’s death
- (56:22) Why Jason thinks it’s smart to block social media during school hours
- (1:03:43) The FTC chatbot investigation leaves out Anthropic’s Claude… here’s why
- (1:13:27) Zoox robotaxis make their Vegas debut… Here’s how they’re different from Waymo
- (1:19:38) Are Tesla robotaxis headed for CA soon? Polymarket says… maybe
- (1:27:21) Closing remarks and banter
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
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Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
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X: https://x.com/alex
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Thank you to our partners:
Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
AWS Activate - AWS Activate helps startups bring their ideas to life. Apply to AWS Activate today to learn more. Visit https://www.aws.amazon.com/startups/credits
Public - Take your investing to the next level with Public. Build a multi-asset portfolio and earn 4.1% APY on your cash—with no fees or minimums. Start now at public.com/twist
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Jason sits down with Wilson Sonsini partner Chris Paniewski for a special Startup Legal Basics on one of the thorniest questions in tech right now: how copyright law applies to AI training data.
Chris has worked on some of the biggest AI deals ever — including Scale AI’s $14B+ partnership with Meta and OpenAI’s $6.5B acquisition of Jony Ive’s design studio — and brings practical, on-the-ground insights from advising leading AI companies.
In this episode, Jason and Chris cover:
- Why AI copyright law is unsettled and will take years to shake out
- The difference between training data and output in legal terms
- How “fair use” really works (and why it’s a defense, not a permission slip)
- The risks of scraping vs. licensing, and why open source ≠ free use
- How investors are diligencing AI startups around training data
- Why startups must think differently once they’re funded vs. hacking in a dorm room
Whether you’re building an AI product, investing in one, or just trying to understand where the law is headed, this conversation breaks down the real legal risks every founder should know.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason introduces the Startup Legal Basics series & Chris Paniewski
(1:25) Why AI copyright law is unsettled
(3:40) Training data: scraping vs. licensing
(6:05) Open web ≠ open license; pitfalls around terms of service
(8:15) Investor diligence & risks around training data
(11:00) Open source & Creative Commons: common founder mistakes
(13:25) “Fair use” explained: the four-part test
(15:45) Why most disputes never make it to case law
Check Out Wilson Sonsini: https://www.wsgr.com
Check out all of the Startup Basics episodes here: https://thisweekinstartups.com/basics
Follow Chris:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-paniewski-09331a59/
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Today’s show:
In this founder-focused episode of This Week in Startups, we sit down with Republic’s Kendrick Nguyen to learn more about the company’s efforts to make the private markets accessible to the common investor. Best known for its work in equity crowdfunding, the Valor-backed startup now offers access to secondary shares, tokenized assets, and much more. Following, TWiST spoke with Positron CEO Mitesh Agrawal to learn more about his company’s inference-focused AI compute hardware. Related to fellow TWiST500 company Etched, Positron is building custom chips to take on the computing work required to deliver your AI query results faster and with less power draw than what GPUs can offer. With AI inference compute demand rising, the fellow Valor-backed startup has even more powerful systems coming to market in 2026 that have our hopes up that the AI cost curve can continue to point downward.
Timestamps:
(0:00) A future with more efficient and accessible intelligence(0:41) the following sponsors are mentioned: AlphaSense, Vanta, and Oracle Cloud Infrastructure(1:26) Introduction to the episode and the two featured companies, Republic and Positron(2:43) The history and purpose of Republic, a financial crowdfunding platform(5:39) Discussion of the current state and growth of equity crowdfunding(9:19) Kendrick Nguyen explains Republic's role as a financial infrastructure company, not a competitor to venture capital firms(11:17) Oracle - Try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist (12:25) Republic's different products, Republic Capital and Republic Venture, are explained(14:00) The challenges and progress of secondary trading for non-accredited investors(20:14) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist(21:21)The concept of a unified "e-finance" infrastructure is introduced(25:45) Positron CEO Mitesh Agarwal discusses the future of AI chips and the limitations of current GPUs for inference workloads(31:12) Alphasense - Get deeper insights into your business with the power of AI search and market intelligence. Start with a free trial at https://www.alpha-sense.com/twist(32:22) Discussion on the inefficiency of GPUs for inference and how Positron's Atlas system addresses it(38:30) Positron's strategy of using their Atlas system to prove their technology and generate revenue(42:51) The market shift from AI training to inference and the future of Positron's chips(51:14) The confidence in Positron's capital efficiency and their ability to compete with NVIDIA(52:47) Positron's focus on linear algebra acceleration rather than just transformers
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Thank you to our partners:
(09:04) Netsuite - Download the ebook CFO’s Guide to AI and Machine Learning for free at https://www.netsuite.com/twist
(21:20) Coda - Empower your startup with Coda’s Team plan for free—get 6 months at https://www.Coda.io/twist
(31:43) .TECH: Say it without saying it. Head to get.tech/twist or your favorite registrar to get a clean, sharp .tech domain today.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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🎥 Watch the full episode here 👇
Today’s show:
In this TWiST founder triple-shot, Alex digs into the real-world rollout of AI agents: Paid.ai’s Manny Medina explains agent economics and value-based pricing, iTruckr’s Camilo Ramirez shows agents booking loads and coordinating drivers, and Tenax’s Elise Myrans demos computer vision + drones that score a single home’s wildfire/flood risk for smarter underwriting—plus live office-hours on winning enterprise pilots without getting stuck in PoC purgatory.
Timestamps:
(00:00) Brainstorming hacks for sales cycles in regulated industries — castles, moats & alligators!
(03:50) Meet Paid.ai: tracking costs & monetization for AI agents
(04:35) Paid.ai’s Manny Medina on the “year of agents” & early enterprise traction
(09:04) Netsuite - Download the ebook CFO’s Guide to AI and Machine Learning for free at https://www.netsuite.com/twist
(11:06) The tough economics of AI agents vs SaaS — margins squeezed by tokens
(18:20) How Paid.ai gets granular: tracking signals & agent activity with OpenTelemetry
(21:20) Coda - Empower your startup with Coda’s Team plan for free—get 6 months at https://www.Coda.io/twist
(29:16) Enter iTruckr: Camilo Ramirez brings AI dispatch to the freight industry
(31:43) .TECH: Say it without saying it. Head to get.tech/twist or your favorite registrar to get a clean, sharp .tech domain today.
(39:02) Scaling from small fleets to mid-sized trucking companies — lessons from AI Trucker
(55:59) Tenax ai helps homeowners & insurers manage wildfire, flood & climate risk
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
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Follow Lon:
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Thank you to our partners:
(09:04) Netsuite - Download the ebook CFO’s Guide to AI and Machine Learning for free at https://www.netsuite.com/twist
(21:20) Coda - Empower your startup with Coda’s Team plan for free—get 6 months at https://www.Coda.io/twist
(31:43) .TECH: Say it without saying it. Head to get.tech/twist or your favorite registrar to get a clean, sharp .tech domain today.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
Jason heard Lina Khan on The Bulwark and got a little fired up.
Plus Google doesn’t have to invest in Chrome… or basically do much of anything… Atlassian picked up not just any browser company but THE Browser Company… Follow-up thoughts on that MIT “companies aren’t using AI” study… AND Jason’s “two stock markets” theory. It’s a can’t-miss Friday TWiST.
Timestamps:
(00:00) Sony responds to Kpop Demon Hunters success… but Jason’s not buying it!
(10:44) Sentry - New users get 3 months free of the Business plan (covers 150k errors). Go to http://sentry.io/twist and use code TWIST
(11:10) Jason heard Lina Khan on The Bulwark and he has THOUGHTS
(12:40) Google doesn’t have to divest Chrome! So what ARE the remedies?
(18:31) Atlassian’s buying a browser company? Which one? THE Browser Company.
(20:57) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech
(21:22) When early DPI is better than NO DPI.
(26:58) AI that helps you GET a job?! What a twist!
(29:46) Jason and Alex have questions about that MIT AI study…
(30:57) Public - Take your investing to the next level with Public. Build a multi-asset portfolio and earn 4.1% APY on your cash—with no fees or minimums. Start now at public.com/twist.
(32:07) More Browser News! Why Jason’s bullish on Brave.
(35:10) Perplexed by “Perplexity”: Jason’s rules for domain names
(39:54) The path is cleared for Polymarket’s return to the US
(47:06) Jason’s “Two Stock Markets” theory
(53:02) Mistral looking to raise 2 billion… euro!
(56:08) Jason’s political philosophy: More joy and happiness
(59:18) Stripe’s new stablecoin blockchain has no native token! So what’s it for?
(01:04:12) Jason’s tips for lowering your churn rate
(01:11:56) How to use Reddit to uncover pain points
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Follow Lon:
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X: https://x.com/alex
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X: https://twitter.com/Jason
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Thank you to our partners:
(10:44) Sentry - New users get 3 months free of the Business plan (covers 150k errors). Go to http://sentry.io/twist and use code TWIST
(20:57) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech
(30:57) Public - Take your investing to the next level with Public. Build a multi-asset portfolio and earn 4.1% APY on your cash—with no fees or minimums. Start now at public.com/twist.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:Wilson Sonsini Partner Becki DeGraw returns to Startup Legal Basics with Jason. This time, they dive into the “have” companies — the breakout startups with multiple term sheets, competitive valuations, and unusual deal terms.
From founder voting proxies to mandatory follow-on investment clauses, Becki breaks down the creative “off-menu” structures showing up in today’s financings, and what founders and investors need to watch for.
Whether you’re a founder navigating investor FOMO or a VC competing to get on the best cap tables, this conversation will give you insight into the new rules of the game.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason welcomes Becki back to Startup Legal Basics
(0:32) The “haves” vs. “have-nots” in today’s startup market
(1:28) Creative legal structures: the “off-menu” items
(4:19) Travis’ Uber favor & modern founder asks
(7:05) Rise of secondaries & unusual board structures
(11:22) Mandatory follow-on investment clauses in seed rounds?
(14:13) Crypto’s resurgence and legal implications
(15:55) The decline of proper diligence in hot deals
*
Check Out Wilson Sonsini: https://www.wsgr.com
Check out all of the Startup Basics episodes here: https://thisweekinstartups.com/basics
*
Follow Becki:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-degraw-639bbb62/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
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*
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Today’s show:
Jason and Alex are joined by Nuro’s Dave Ferguson to unpack the Lucid–Uber–Nuro deal aiming to launch fully driverless Gravity SUVs on Uber by 2026. They dig into why off-the-shelf sensors and Nvidia’s Thor chip drive costs down, how mapping 150 cities improves safety, and why lidar still matters for night and edge cases. Plus: lessons from Cruise’s collapse, how regulators think about safety multiples, and why autonomy could finally make rides cheaper than owning a car.
Timestamps:
(00:00) Show intro…
(06:23) Uber x Lucid x Nuro: why this 2026 robotaxi deal matters
(09:57) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(11:13) What the self-driving “cost stack” really looks like in 2025
(14:08) Road-mapping at scale: Nuro’s 150-city data collection push
(15:38) Can AVs handle snow & rain? Weather rollout and Uber Black positioning
(20:05) Northwest Registered Agent - Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
(21:07) Show Continues…
(24:24) Probabilistic vs. deterministic driving models — and the DARPA roots
(30:08) Stripe Startups - Stripe Startups offers early-stage, venture-backed startups access to Stripe fee credits and more. Apply today on stripe.com/startups.
(31:08) Show Continues…
(35:38) Post-Cruise reality check: transparency, regulators & trust
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Follow Lon:
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Thank you to our partners:
(09:57) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(20:05) Northwest Registered Agent - Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
(30:08) Stripe Startups - Stripe Startups offers early-stage, venture-backed startups access to Stripe fee credits and more. Apply today on stripe.com/startups.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
Find out why it’s important to “get curious,” and more deep founder insights on a new TWiST.
Jason and Alex are back with a look at Robot vs. Human violence spilling out into the streets, Elon Musk’s vision for humanoid robots, and a reconsideration of Apple’s open-source AI models. Is the hardware giant not getting enough credit for its smaller-scale innovations?
Plus Grok has another hit model, AND a chat with Scale Social founder Runbin Dong about the importance of knowing your worth.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Robot vs. Human violence in the streets! Is anti-clanker behavior inevitable?
(05:13) Producer Claude’s company Anthropic is growing FAST, raising BIG money
(09:21) More on why Jason is convinced Tesla’s Optimus robots are the future
(10:35) Monarch Money - Get 50% Off Monarch Money, the all-in-one financial tool at www.monarchmoney.com/TWIST
(11:50) Show Continues…
(20:00) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(21:19) Show Continues…
(23:31) Ask Jason: Should you get a ticket for messing with an autonomous vehicle?
(27:04) Is Apple not getting enough credit for its open-source AI models?
(30:30) AWS Activate - AWS Activate helps startups bring their ideas to life. Apply to AWS Activate today to learn more. Visit aws.amazon.com/startups/credits
(31:55) Show Continues…
(38:08) Grok has another hit AI model… how can anyone even keep track of this?!
(40:27) Runbin Dong of Scale Social stops by from ICELAND
(42:54) How Runbin’s job delivering homemade dumplings inspired his startup
(47:05) Why founders need to know their WORTH when pricing their products
(59:21) Jason’s advice for companies that are creating their own category
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Follow Lon:
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Thank you to our partners:
(10:35) Monarch Money - Get 50% Off Monarch Money, the all-in-one financial tool at www.monarchmoney.com/TWIST
(20:00) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(30:30) AWS Activate - AWS Activate helps startups bring their ideas to life. Apply to AWS Activate today to learn more. Visit aws.amazon.com/startups/credits
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
*“KPop Demon Hunters” is one of the year’s biggest smashes… AFTER Sony sold it off to Netflix for cheap! Hear about what went wrong with one of the year’s worst deals…
PLUS Grok is counting on SPEED to help it outpace rivals… How Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-NY) ran into trouble on the podcast circuit… Nvidia’s big earnings report, and why everyone is watching that company in particular SO closely… PLUS a new Polymarket predicting the future of OpenAI!
Timestamps:
(0:00) How Sony missed out on “Kpop Demon Hunters”
(10:15) .TECH: Say it without saying it. Head to get.tech/twist or your favorite registrar to get a clean, sharp .tech domain today.
(11:20) Show continues…
(13:59) Why some politicians struggle so much on podcasts
(19:30) AWS Activate - AWS Activate helps startups bring their ideas to life. Apply to AWS Activate today to learn more. Visit aws.amazon.com/startups/credits
(20:53) Show continues…
(30:24) Alphasense - Get deeper insights into your business with the power of AI search and market intelligence. Start with a free trial at https://www.alpha-sense.com/twist
(31:37) Grok is relying on SPEED to outpace rivals… and it’s working
(41:23) Are AI companies playing a mega-budget game of chicken?
(42:31) Why everyone’s watching Nvidia’s earnings so closely
(47:50) Jason says he’ll NEVER go back to a non-AI browser
(53:32) Polymarket: Is OpenAI going to release their own browser?
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
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Follow Lon:
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Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
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Thank you to our partners:
(10:15) .TECH: Say it without saying it. Head to get.tech/twist or your favorite registrar to get a clean, sharp .tech domain today.
(19:30) AWS Activate - AWS Activate helps startups bring their ideas to life. Apply to AWS Activate today to learn more. Visit aws.amazon.com/startups/credits
(30:24) Alphasense - Get deeper insights into your business with the power of AI search and market intelligence. Start with a free trial at https://www.alpha-sense.com/twist
Ready to level up your AI collaborations?
Head to www.claude.ai/twist
- You can’t do everything we’re doing without a paid plan…
- But TWiST listeners get 50% off their first three months of Claude Pro.
- Just go to Claude dot AI Slash TWiST to get started.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:Wilson Sonsini Partner Becki DeGraw returns to Startup Legal Basics with Jason to break down what’s happening in today’s startup market. From excess dry powder on the VC side to companies struggling to “grow into” their valuations, Becki shares what founders need to know about deal terms, pay-to-play provisions, and the shift from the 2021 heyday to today’s more structured environment.
- Why down rounds and structured deals are becoming more common
- How “pay-to-play” works (and why it’s showing up so often now)
- The psychology of VCs vs. founders during tough fundraises
- What the M&A landscape really looks like in 2025
- Legal provisions investors are using to protect themselves in today’s talent wars
Whether you’re a founder preparing for your next round or an investor navigating tougher terms, this conversation will help you understand the new realities of startup fundraising.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Becki DeGraw joins Jason for Startup Legal Basics
(1:12) The “perfect storm” shaping today’s startup market
(4:30) Companies struggling to grow into 2021 valuations
(6:31) Why down rounds and structured deals are rising
(8:59) Pay-to-play explained: what happens if investors don’t participate
(15:43) The mid-market M&A wave vs. big tech acquisitions
(20:37) Talent wars, acqui-hires, and protective legal provisions
*
Check Out Wilson Sonsini: https://www.wsgr.com
Check out all of the Startup Basics episodes here: https://thisweekinstartups.com/basics
*
Follow Becki:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-degraw-639bbb62/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Today’s show:
On a brand-new TWiST, Jason and Alex are asking why there are SO MANY note-taking AI apps?
Plus another death has been linked to ChatGPT… is it too easy to get past chatbot guardrails? Why Donald Trump Jr. is joining Polymarket…. How the US Navy could catch up with its international rivals… AND should Apple just buy a big AI company to help them catch up?
All that PLUS a visit from Colin Russ, whose viral H1B Visa thread might just inspire Jason to reach out to his good friend, Vice President JD Vance. Check out the full episode!
Timestamps:
(0:00) Intro, Jason’s checking out Notion’s new AI note taking app… is it time to cancel Granola?
(06:57) How Google Gemini’s new 2.5 Flash Image tool (formerly known as “nano-banana”) could change advertising
(10:28) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(11:40) Show Continues…
(17:50) Another death linked to ChatGPT… is it too easy to get around AI chatbot guardrails?
(19:26) Vouched - Trust for agents that’s built for builders like you. Check it out at http://vouched.id/twist
(20:34) Show Continues…
(28:10) Donald Trump Jr. invests in Polymarket and joins the board…
(29:45) Northwest Registered Agent - Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
(30:49) Show Continues…
(33:30) How Jason thinks the US Navy could catch up with China and other rivals, with help from startups
(40:01) Do Jason and Alex think Apple might REALLY buy a big, expensive AI company? Would that be admitting defeat?
(45:57) Colin Russ (@ThaaatColin) tells us about his viral X thread and why he’s worried about H1B visa fraud
(55:32) Jason’s solution for the H1B system, and a message for VP Vance.
(01:08:25) Jason responds to Kara Swisher, who accused him sucking up to power
(01:19:07) Jason responds to his old pal Sam Harris, who thinks he’s loyal to the wrong people
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
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Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
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X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
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X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:28) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(19:26) Vouched - Trust for agents that’s built for builders like you. Check it out at http://vouched.id/twist
(29:45) Northwest Registered Agent - Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
On an upbeat and optimistic new TWiST, Jason and Alex are debating why any new innovation or technology gets hit with a wave of bitter cynicism.
PLUS Jason defends the government taking shares of Intel, explains the importance of interoperability, and predicts how AirBnB’s Joe Gebbia will upgrade the US government’s website design.
All that PLUS thoughts on the Netskope IPO, Perplexity offering publishers actual revenue share, a deep dive on the new AI-based PAC, thoughts on open-source LLMs, and much much much more.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Cynicism vs. Optimism and why Jason thinks cynics go after any interesting new technology
(10:02) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(11:04) Show Continues…
(14:37) Why Jason supports the Intel deal but worries it will become a trend
(20:46) Public - Take your investing to the next level with Public. Build a multi-asset portfolio and earn 4.1% APY on your cash—with no fees or minimums. Start now at public.com/twist.
(22:00) Show Continues…
(27:02) Is it hypocritical to oppose socialist grocery stores but support the Intel deal? Jason says NO.
(29:41) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(30:58) What does xAI hope to get out of this OpenAI/Apple lawsuit? Jason and Alex theorize…
(39:12) Why Jason thinks interoperability is so important and how App Stores OUGHT to work
(41:12) How AirBnB’s Joe Gebbia could potentially upgrade the US government’s websites
(49:27) What does Netskope do exactly? SASE?! Producer Claude explains…
(58:32) Alex and Jason celebrate Perplexity rev sharing with publishers
(01:10:02) Jason’s thoughts on the Leading the Future PAC, and US AI policy
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
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Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
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X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
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X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:02) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(20:46) Public - Take your investing to the next level with Public. Build a multi-asset portfolio and earn 4.1% APY on your cash—with no fees or minimums. Start now at public.com/twist.
(29:41) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
Terra’s collapse, Powell’s pivot, and OpenAI’s explosive growth all collide in this TWiST deep dive.
Do Kwon has pled guilty after Terra/Luna’s $60B implosion, Fed Chair Powell hints at a September rate cut, and OpenAI has officially crossed $1B in monthly revenue (on a $12B run rate). Jason and Alex unpack what this means for founders, LPs, and the next wave of AI + crypto.
They also cover Canva’s $42B comeback, Anthropic’s doubled $10B fundraise, and the brewing battle between Figma & Canva.
Plus: Uber, Nuro & Lucid’s $6B robotaxi push — and why drivers are already protesting in Wuhan & Boston.
Startups #Crypto #AI #VentureCapital #OpenAI #Anthropic #Canva #Figma #ThisWeekInStartups
Timestamps:
(0:00) INTRO
(01:15) Fed rate cut signals & market reaction
(05:36) Jason’s $400K in new fund bets
(10:25) Miro - Help your teams get great done with Miro. Check out miro.com to find out how!
(11:30) Show Continues…
(16:22) Do Kwon & the Terra/Luna collapse
(20:22) Bolt - Don’t be left behind. Build apps quickly without knowing how to code with Bolt.new. Try it free at https://www.bolt.new/twist.
(21:23) Show Continues…
(29:43) Alphasense - Get deeper insights into your business with the power of AI search and market intelligence. Start with a free trial at https://www.alpha-sense.com/twist
(30:55) Show Continues…
(36:14) OpenAI’s $1B/month revenue run rate
(42:13) Anthropic’s $10B round & AI market sizing
(51:31) Canva’s $42B valuation & Figma comparison
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
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X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:25) Miro - Help your teams get great done with Miro. Check out miro.com to find out how!
(20:22) Bolt - Don’t be left behind. Build apps quickly without knowing how to code with Bolt.new. Try it free at https://www.bolt.new/twist.
(29:43) Alphasense - Get deeper insights into your business with the power of AI search and market intelligence. Start with a free trial at https://www.alpha-sense.com/twist
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
In this TWiST 500 double feature, Alex sits down with two breakout founders: Chalk’s Marc Freed-Finnegan & Tollbit’s Toshit Panigrahi!
First, Chalk’s CEO Marc Freed-Finnegan is tackling one of AI’s biggest bottlenecks—data freshness. Instead of relying on stale batch jobs, Chalk delivers real-time pipelines for inference compute, automatically transpiling Python into C++/Rust so it can run blazing fast in production. Investors are calling it the ‘next Databricks’—and after hearing this convo, you’ll see why.
Then, Tollbit’s CEO Toshit Panigrahi returns after raising a $24M Series A and signing up 1,400+ publishers. With RAG traffic exploding and robots.txt losing its teeth, their ‘bot paywall’ could reshape how AI agents pay for the content they consume. Are we heading for a Spotify moment for data licensing?
A must-watch if you care about the economics of AI, from data pipelines to publisher monetization.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Intro + sponsors
(1:03) Alex tees up two Twist 500 interviews: Chalk & Tolbert
(2:47) Why AI is shifting from training compute to inference compute
(4:41) Data freshness & real-time inference explained
(10:43) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(12:00) How Chalk transpiles Python into C++/Rust for speed
(18:52) Chalk’s business model, margins & $500M valuation
(20:11) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(21:24) Show Continues…
(28:02) Tollbit returns: $24M Series A & the rise of RAG bot traffic
(30:37) .TECH: Say it without saying it. Head to get.tech/twist or your favorite registrar to get a clean, sharp .tech domain today.
(31:41) Show Continues…
(36:53) Robots.txt losing relevance & the case for bot paywalls
(39:19)Publishers, AI agents & the future economics of the web
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:43) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(20:11) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(30:37) .TECH: Say it without saying it. Head to get.tech/twist or your favorite registrar to get a clean, sharp .tech domain today.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
In this AI Basics episode, Jason sits down with Matt Rouif, Co-founder & CEO of Photoroom — the AI photo editing app with 300M+ downloads and 5B images processed annually.
They break down:
- Why Photoroom built its own specialized AI models
- How they grew from a scrappy startup to $50M+ in revenue
- Lessons in product-led growth (from eBay sellers to DoorDash & Amazon)
- Red-teaming, brand safety, and building trust in AI imagery
- The future of personalized ads, content, and design
This one is a masterclass for founders, operators, and builders.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Matt Rouif joins Jason to discuss AI Basics.
(0:45) Meet Matt Rouif: Photoroom’s $50M+ AI photo startup
(3:15) Live demo: background removal + virtual try-on
(7:40) From indie sellers to DoorDash & Amazon
(12:20) The “Barbie Movie” API moment
(17:05) Red-teaming AI: trust, safety & brand protection
(22:10) Running a 100-person AI startup
(26:30) The future of personalized ads (put you in the ad?)
Explore Further:
Google Cloud’s Report: The Future of AI
Get insights from 23 leading experts on how startups can leverage AI for real business impact.
👉 Read the full report
More AI Basics Episodes
Founders, operators, and builders — catch up on our full Startup Basics series (Legal, Finance, Growth & AI):
👉 thisweekinstartups.com/basics
Links from episode:
Check out Photoroom: https://www.photoroom.com/
Check out Google Cloud: https://cloud.google.com/
Follow Matt:
X: https://x.com/matthieurouif
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthieurouif/
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
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Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Today’s show:
We’re back with two insightful new TWiST founder interviews.
First up: Dean Leitersdorf of Decart tells us about squeezing maximum productivity out of your GPUs. But it’s not all talk: he also shows us the incredible open world model that can magically transform live footage.
THEN! Jason and Alex chat with Syncere AI founder Aaron Tan about Lume, his robotic lamp device that went viral for folding laundry. Hear why Aaron thinks the future of robotics is not necessarily humanoid, and all about his future plans for the Lume arms.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Alex introduces our TwiST 500 interviews
(02:27) TWiST 500 Interview #1: Dean Leitersdorf, CEO and Founder of Decart
(04:37) Setting out to build a “kilo-corn,” a trillion dollar company
(06:27) How making AI much faster opens up a world of new opportunities
(09:48) OpenPhone - Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(11:00) Why Dean thinks chatbots are the interface of the future
(17:24) How Decart builds and trains its models more efficiently (and for less money)
(20:01) Netsuite - Download the ebook CFO’s Guide to AI and Machine Learning for free at https://www.netsuite.com/twist
(21:14) Show Continues…
(24:36) Interview #2: Aaron Tan of Syncere AI
(25:13) Behind-the-scenes of that viral Lume “robot lamp folding laundry” video
(30:23) Stripe Startups - Stripe Startups offers early-stage, venture-backed startups access to Stripe fee credits and more. Apply today on stripe.com/startups.
(31:25) Moving beyond laundry: what else these Lume robots do?
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(09:48) OpenPhone - Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(20:01) Netsuite - Download the ebook CFO’s Guide to AI and Machine Learning for free at https://www.netsuite.com/twist
(30:23) Stripe Startups - Stripe Startups offers early-stage, venture-backed startups access to Stripe fee credits and more. Apply today on stripe.com/startups.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
It’s a Friday TWiST and Jason and Alex are FIRED UP about this internal Meta doc laying out appropriate vs. inappropriate AI behavior… You won’t BELIEVE with what Zuck approves for 8-year-old users.
PLUS… AI job displacement is HERE, at least in the Big Apple… Jason’s getting kind of paranoid about the surveillance state… AI remains frothier than ever through new Cohere and Cognition rounds… and why we’re dubious that Sam Altman REALLY plans to spend $1 trillion on OpenAI data centers.
It’s all happening on a brand-new This Week in Startups. Give it a click!
Timestamps:
(0:00) Intro - How Opendoor became a meme stock
(06:58) When companies have less value than cash on hand… what gives?
(10:23) - (11:24) Bolt - Don’t be left behind. Build apps quickly without knowing how to code with Bolt.new. Try it free at https://www.bolt.new/twist
(19:13) New York’s not adding jobs… Jason and Alex dig in and offer some theories.
(20:25) - (21:30) Northwest Registered Agent - Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
(26:56) AI job displacement is HERE and it’s happening, folks…
(30:05) Why Jason predicts unemployment will be 20% higher 1 year from today… add it to the TWiST Calendar
(30:24) - (31:37) Alphasense - Get deeper insights into your business with the power of AI search and market intelligence. Start with a free trial at https://www.alpha-sense.com/twist
(33:02) Wait, Meta AI is having “sensual” chats with children? WHY?
(40:00) Will there be fallout to the Meta exposé? Legal? Staffing? Otherwise?
(47:47) AI remains frothier than ever with new Cohere and Cognition rounds.
(52:33) Sam Altman says he’s going to spend $1 trillion on data centers… Jason’s dubious.
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:23) Bolt - Don’t be left behind. Build apps quickly without knowing how to code with Bolt.new. Try it free at https://www.bolt.new/twist
(20:25) Northwest Registered Agent - Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
(30:24) Alphasense - Get deeper insights into your business with the power of AI search and market intelligence. Start with a free trial at https://www.alpha-sense.com/twist
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
We’re back with another all-star VC roundtable discussion.
Joining Jason are Dave McClure of Practical VC, NVNG’s Grady Buchanan, and Tomasz Tunguz of Theory VC. Together, they’re having a deep insider discussion of the state of venture, secondary markets, running funds of funds, the legacy of Lina Khan, the difficulty of recruiting, and why the pendulum has potentially swung in founders’ favor.
Timestamps
(0:00) INTRO, The origins of Practical VC and how secondary funds work.
(05:44) So… how does Dave decide what to BUY?
(09:27) Melanie - Companies are staying private longer… Is this good for fund managers?
(10:02) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(11:18) Show Continues…
(14:17) We’ve all heard about unicorns but… what about centaurs?!
(16:19) Jacob - Are VC marks… bullsh*t?! How long until your LPs should see DPI? The panel debates.
(17:22) Jacob - Is Jason too hard on Lina Khan? Dave says VCs created the problem!
(20:07) AWS Activate - AWS Activate helps startups bring their ideas to life. Apply to AWS Activate today to learn more. Visit aws.amazon.com/startups/credits
(21:30) Show Continues…
(30:01) Public - Take your investing to the next level with Public. Build a multi-asset portfolio and earn 4.1% APY on your cash—with no fees or minimums. Start now at public.com/twist.
(31:16) Show Continues…
(31:34) When it’s time to embed an expert into a struggling startup
(34:15) How investing in SO MANY COMPANIES gave Dave a trove of data
(40:33) Sometimes VCs have to be the “voice of reality”…
(45:53) Are stock buybacks the best use of capital?
(49:29) Jacob - The End of the ZIRP Era meets the Dawn of the AI Era
(51:04) Why running your business on debt, not equity, requires tough choices
(58:23) When you need to “take the medicine” on returns and live to fight another day.
(01:11:17) Is Grady actively seeking managers that have shown a demonstrated ability to produce liquidity?
(01:13:24) Dave says the pendulum has swung into founders’ favor.
(01:20:25) Dave teases his new secondary podcast, “Trading Places”!
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:02) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(20:07) AWS Activate - AWS Activate helps startups bring their ideas to life. Apply to AWS Activate today to learn more. Visit aws.amazon.com/startups/credits
(30:01) Public - Take your investing to the next level with Public. Build a multi-asset portfolio and earn 4.1% APY on your cash—with no fees or minimums. Start now at public.com/twist.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
On an all-new Monday TWiST, Lon joins Jason and Alex to talk about a whole bunch of stories at the intersection of tech, business, and pop culture.
First up, is GPT Psychosis real? And if so, what are the warning signs that your loved ones have been ONESHOTTED.
Then, why did Jason get so upset at the NY Times piece about Mark Zuckerberg’s Palo Alto compound?
PLUS we’re discussing Trump’s export fees on AMD and Nvidia, Jason’s pitch for why the president should work more closely with Congress, a new tool in the search for rare-earth minerals, just how many self-driving trucks are on Chinese roads today, and much much more!
Timestamps:
(0:00) INTRO, Why Jason hated the NYT story about Mark Zuckerberg’s compound.
(09:54) Vouched - Trust for agents that’s built for builders like you. Check it out at http://vouched.id/twist
(11:14) Show continues…
(19:54) Coda - Empower your startup with Coda’s Team plan for free—get 6 months at https://www.Coda.io/twist
(21:01) Show continues…
(27:25) GPT Psychosis: Is it real and how widespread is it?
(29:13) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(30:16) Show continues…
(45:45) What it means to get “One-Shotted”: is Sam Altman doing this on purpose?
(53:56) Jason says working multiple jobs at once is STEALING… is that fair?
(01:04:53) Are Trump’s Chinese export fees for AMD and Nvidia a justified licensing process? Or a shakedown?
(01:09:22) Jason’s pitch for working closer with Congress, and why Alex has concerns about clarity
(01:12:02) PolyMarket: Will tariffs generate >$250b in 2025?
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(09:54) Vouched - Trust for agents that’s built for builders like you. Check it out at http://vouched.id/twist
(19:54) Coda - Empower your startup with Coda’s Team plan for free—get 6 months at https://www.Coda.io/twist
(29:13) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
Jason and Lon recorded a Thursday night special edition, so no Alex this time, but still lots to talk about.
First up, Jason thinks it’s time for Tim Apple to exit the stage in lieu of a product obsessive innovator. Speaking of new products, GPT-5 is here and the hosts are… not exactly blown away. Are we in the midst of the AI trough of despair?
PLUS we’re talking Ripple’s acquisition of Rail, Donald Trump’s new AI chatbot, Bumble’s new direction, Airbnb’s potential paths forward and MUCH MUCH MORE.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Why Jason thinks Apple lacks innovation (plus a look back at his 2019 thoughts)
(08:54) Sentry - New users get 3 months free of the Business plan (covers 150k errors). Go to http://sentry.io/twist and use code TWIST
(09:54) Show continues…
(20:10) Northwest Registered Agent - Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
(21:18) Is GPT-5 coming for Lovable and Bolt?
(29:42) Alphasense - Get deeper insights into your business with the power of AI search and market intelligence. Start with a free trial at AlphaSense.com/Twist.
(30:55) Show continues…
(35:05) Ripple buying Rail, and why sometimes regulations are GOOD for companies
(43:28) Is Ripple about to become the MicroStrategy of XRP?
(47:48) Truth Social AI is perplexing, powered by Perplexity
(53:27) Should people be using ChatGPT for therapy? What do you think? How does that make you feel?
(01:04:42) Anthropic’s Dario Amodei recalls his greatest haters
(01:11:04) Bumble but… for friendship?
(01:12:20) DoorDash’s crazy growth, and the guys discuss who should buy Airbnb
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
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Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(08:54) Sentry - New users get 3 months free of the Business plan (covers 150k errors). Go to http://sentry.io/twist and use code TWIST
(20:10) Northwest Registered Agent - Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
(29:42) Alphasense - Get deeper insights into your business with the power of AI search and market intelligence. Start with a free trial at AlphaSense.com/Twist.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
It’s a brand-new PACKED episode of TWiST. Jason and Alex welcome guest Zach Dive of Adam.new, to tell us why he made a deepfake AI ad starring Jason and the All-In besties.
PLUS a rundown of the biggest tech and startup news of the day, including Disney’s decision to sunset Hulu, OpenAI’s new open-weight models, the Cloudflare vs. Perplexity feud, Uber’s newly-announced stock buyback, China’s Luckin Coffee coming to Manhattan, and much much more!
Timestamps:
(0:00) Luckin Coffee hits NYC… along with COMMUNISM?!
(09:15) Is China taking on major American brands on PURPOSE?
(10:16) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(11:29) Show Continues…
(20:17) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech
(21:30) Show Continues…
(26:02) RIP HULU: Why Disney is sunsetting the iconic app.
(28:37) Nostracanis Returns: Jason’s 2017 Disney vs. Netflix predictions came true
(30:24) .TECH - Say it without saying it. Head to www.get.tech/twist or your favorite registrar to get a clean, sharp .tech domain today.
(31:28) Show Continues…
(35:39) Zach Dive of Adam.new joins to tell us about making a viral deepfake ad starring JCal and the Besties
(44:10) Zach shares thoughts on AI and copyright, and why it’s a problem for the “big dogs,” not him… yet
(48:12) Jason wants to wet his beak… but is there room in the Adam.new seed round?
(53:07)OpenAI’s new models are open-WEIGHT; how that’s different from open-source.
(58:36) Do Nvidia and Apple devices NEED kill switches and backdoors? Why it’s such a tough question.
(01:02:10) GPT-5 arrives TOMORROW?!
(01:03:31) Cloudflare vs. Perplexity… let them fight?
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:16) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(20:17) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech
(30:24) .TECH - Say it without saying it. Head to www.get.tech/twist or your favorite registrar to get a clean, sharp .tech domain today.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
Jason and Alex are running down the biggest tech, startup, and business stories of the day on a brand-new Monday TWIST.Which countries are leading the AI race, based on academic papers? Why Jason thinks covert agencies are spying on Meta’s superintelligence team. Lina Khan’s taking a victory lap on the Figma IPO but what did she REALLY accomplish during her Biden administration tenure? PLUS, why we’re bringing Founder University to the MENA region.
All that and MORE on a packed episode! Find out why we’re the #1 podcast for startups and founders.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Why Jason is attending more TV poker tournaments
(4:02) Did you know Founder University is headed to MENA? Calling all Riyadh founders.
(10:01) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(11:27) Show Continues…
(19:52) Oracle - Try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist
(21:01) Why Jason doesn’t think Lina Khan deserves her Figma IPO victory lap.
(23:17) Jason thinks Figma is overpriced: how quickly could a rival build a competitor?
(27:53) For an investor, there’s a huge difference between a home run and a GRAND SLAM.
(30:42) Monarch Money - Get 50% Off Monarch Money, the all-in-one financial tool at www.monarchmoney.com/TWIST
(31:55) Show Continues…
(40:59) Why Jason thinks covert agencies are spying on Meta’s global Superintelligence Team…
(50:43) Which countries are leading the AI race in terms of research? Producer Claude helps with the answer.
(57:12) Fact-checking the viral BYD TikTok: can their self-driving cars really drive themselves off the ship?
(59:52) Jason and Alex check out some of their dream cars
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
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Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
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X: https://x.com/alex
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X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
10:01) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(19:52) Oracle - Try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist
(30:42) Monarch Money - Get 50% Off Monarch Money, the all-in-one financial tool at www.monarchmoney.com/TWIST
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
Alex is back with three more awesome interviews with founders on the bleeding edge of innovative tech.
- Dr. Hon Weng Chong walks us through the basics of biological computing and Cortical Labs’ first-ever commercial computer running on living human cells.
- Turing founder Jonathan Siddarth unpacks the secrets of LLM benchmarking, and explains why even our most advanced tests need to get much much harder right away.
- Finally, Mercor founder Brendan Foody on how AI is about to reinvent the hiring process, and marrying the effectiveness of recruiters with the ease of online job boards.
It’s three — count ’em, three — can’t miss TWiST interviews guaranteed to make you smarter
Timestamps:
(0:00) OpenAI’s GPT-5: When is it coming out? Is it going to be TOO smart?
(08:06) Cortical Labs’ Hon Weng Chong on the electric connection between neuroscience and machine learning
(10:20) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
(11:27) Show Continues…
(15:17) The extreme difficulty of going from the lab to a shippable product
(20:00) .TECH: Say it without saying it. Head to www.get.tech/twist or your favorite registrar to get a clean, sharp .tech domain today.
(21:05) Show Continues…
(28:15) Why data is a factor of time
(29:52) AWS Activate - AWS Activate helps startups bring their ideas to life. Apply to AWS Activate today to learn more. Visit aws.amazon.com/startups/credits
(31:16) Show Continues…
(42:44) Turing CEO Jonathan Siddarth explains why it’s so important to keep benchmarking our LLMs
(47:24) What it means when a model “saturates” a test, and why benchmarks need to get HARDER
(50:22) What happens with the LLMs can answer all of our smartest questions?
(53:44) AI Agents train in gyms? Wait, really?
(01:01:33) Coding teaches models how to think, and more training mysteries don’t understand
(01:03:11) Brendan Foody from Mercor explains the “matching problem” that makes hiring such a pain
(01:07:02) How Mercor combines a job board’s distribution with the value of a recruitment agency
(01:10:49) Brendan recalls building his first AI interviewer in his college dorm
(01:20:16) Mercor has the opposite of a retention problem and crazy growth
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
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Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:20) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
(20:00) .TECH: Say it without saying it. Head to www.get.tech/twist or your favorite registrar to get a clean, sharp .tech domain today.
(29:52) AWS Activate - AWS Activate helps startups bring their ideas to life. Apply to AWS Activate today to learn more. Visit aws.amazon.com/startups/credits
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
It’s another All Star Investor Panel! Jason and Alex welcome TrustFund VC founder Sophia Amoruso AND WeekendFund investor/Product Hunt founder Ryan Hoover.Together they’re going DEEP on the current environment for startups, founders, and investors. How do tell durable from brittle revenue… Everyone’s different approaches to follow-on investments and recycling… Strategies on when to trim a position… The benefits of hosting co-working events and jam sessions… And LOTS LOTS more!
It’s an essential watch for anyone building or investing in companies in 2025!
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introducing our amazing investor panel!
(03:15) The panel shares their First Fund experiences
(10:03) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(11:27) Show cont…
(12:46) Where we’re at on the investor Greed-Fear Index
(13:54) The delicate art of investor discipline
(20:47) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(21:59) Sophia’s criteria for a follow-on investment
(24:17) Founders are going direct on social media
(29:35) Public - Take your investing to the next level with Public. Build a multi-asset portfolio and earn 4.1% APY on your cash—with no fees or minimums. Start now at public.com/twist.
(30:49) Show cont…
(32:33) Why we’re seeing so many more Series Bs
(33:30) So when do you trim a position?
(39:35) There are SO MANY COMPANIES! Why surface area matters.
(43:25) Durable vs. brittle revenue and how to tell them apart
(46:15) When it’s time to angel invest outside your fund
(49:04) The panel’s approaches to capital recycling
(57:15) The benefits of co-working “jam sessions”
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
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Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
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X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:03) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(20:47) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(29:35) Public - Take your investing to the next level with Public. Build a multi-asset portfolio and earn 4.1% APY on your cash—with no fees or minimums. Start now at public.com/twist.
DISCLAIMER
All investing involves the risk of loss, including loss of principal. Brokerage services for US-listed, registered securities, options and bonds in a self-directed account are offered by Public Investing, Inc., member FINRA & SIPC. Public Investing offers a High-Yield Cash Account where funds from this account are automatically deposited into partner banks where they earn interest and are eligible for FDIC insurance; Public Investing is not a bank. Cryptocurrency trading services are offered by Bakkt Crypto Solutions, LLC (NMLS ID 1890144), which is licensed to engage in virtual currency business activity by the NYSDFS. Cryptocurrency is highly speculative, involves a high degree of risk, and has the potential for loss of the entire amount of an investment. Cryptocurrency holdings are not protected by the FDIC or SIPC.Alpha is an experimental AI tool powered by GPT-4. Its output may be inaccurate and is not investment advice. Public makes no guarantees about its accuracy or reliability—verify independently before use.Rate as of 7/18/25. APY is variable and subject to change.*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
Today’s show:
SYDNEY SWEENEY’S AMERICAN EAGLE AD DIVIDES OUR PANEL!PLUS WHAT STARTUPS CAN LEARN FROM THE VIRAL ASTRONOMER RESPONSEJason, Alex, and Lon are looking at some of the biggest media stories of the day before returning to their favorite topic, tech. Tune in for deep dives on IMAX’s new AI film festival, Figma’s big IPO and much more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show!
(3:45) Lon’s joining Alex and Lon to discuss the controversial Sydney Sweeney genes/jeans ad
(7:20) A look at the polarizing takes on this jeans ad.
(10:10) OpenPhone - Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(11:46) Hear the verdict from Jason, self—proclaimed Chairman of the Interwebs
(16:42) Alex points out the economic impact of the controversy
(20:26) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(21:25) Back to the show!
(26:35) Paltrow’s Astronomer ad, meme-processing and the ideal way to change the conversation
(30:04) Vouched - Trust for agents that’s built for builders like you. Check it out at http://vouched.id/twist
(31:28) Back to the show!
(36:48) Netflix and the growing controversy around AI’s role in filmmaking
(42:53) IMAX/Runway collaboration and Hollywood’s shifting attitude toward AI
(47:34) Everything that went wrong with the Tea App
(54:27) Why Jason thinks app stores should ban “anonymous” forms and message boards
(1:04:19) Figma upped its IPO price… what does it mean for the return of liquidity? And is this too high or fairly priced?
(1:07:53) Paul Graham says you shouldn’t drop out of college to work on a startup… Why Thiel Fellows disagree
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:10) OpenPhone - Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(20:26) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(30:04) Vouched - Trust for agents that’s built for builders like you. Check it out at http://vouched.id/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
Jason’s back and filling us in on his experiences in Washington DC, at the All-In AI Summit, including getting a Trump shoutout from stage, debating immigration with VP Vance, and calling out Sec. Wright for dismissing solar power.THEN Jason and Alex talk about the immense promise of open-source robotics and check out Hugging Face’s Reachy…PLUS picking apart the White House’s new AI-related executive orders, why Jason is afraid of China repeating its Huawei success, a free exchange about tariffs vs. free trade, AND a pressing query from a founder on Reddit: how bad is it to add AI to your product too early?
Timestamps:
(0:00) INTRO, Alex updates Jason about all this week’s TWiST 500 interviews
(03:33) Inside Jason’s experiences at this week’s All In AI Summit with POTUS!
(05:33) Jason’s back and forth on solar power with US Energy Sec. Chris Wright
(09:56) Inbound - Use code TWIST10 for 10% off your General Admission ticket at https://www.inbound.com/register (Valid thru 7/31)
(11:02) Promo end
(16:54) Jason asks AMD CEO Lisa Su about reaching “superintelligence” and whether it could trigger an unemployment crisis
(19:51) Bolt - Don’t be left behind. Build apps quickly without knowing how to code with Bolt.new. Try it free at https://www.bolt.new/twist.
(20:44) Promo end
(23:42) Jason says… any time you have to wait days or weeks for a service or product, there’s a MASSIVE opportunity.
(26:16) What do Trump’s new AI executive orders actually say?
(27:27) Which EO’s are red meat for Trump’s base, and which ones are likely to become laws and have real impact?
(29:50) Public - Take your investing to the next level with Public. Build a multi-asset portfolio and earn 4.1% APY on your cash—with no fees or minimums. Start now at https://public.com/twist.
(31:05) Promo end
(35:17) How Huawei went worldwide and why Jason doesn’t want that to happen again with AI.
(38:32) Jason and Alex have a little tariff vs. free trade debate.
(47:03) VP Vance complained about US tech companies laying off Americans, then hiring immigrants; Jason gives his take
(53:35) Jason answers a Reddit question: Is adding AI to your product too early a TRAP?
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Thank you to our partners:
(09:56) Inbound - Use code TWIST10 for 10% off your General Admission ticket at https://www.inbound.com/register (Valid thru 7/31)
(19:51) Bolt - Don’t be left behind. Build apps quickly without knowing how to code with Bolt.new. Try it free at https://www.bolt.new/twist.
(29:50) Public - Take your investing to the next level with Public. Build a multi-asset portfolio and earn 4.1% APY on your cash—with no fees or minimums. Start now at https://public.com/twist.
Disclaimer:All investing involves the risk of loss, including loss of principal. Brokerage services for US-listed, registered securities, options and bonds in a self-directed account are offered by Public Investing, Inc., member FINRA & SIPC. Public Investing offers a High-Yield Cash Account where funds from this account are automatically deposited into partner banks where they earn interest and are eligible for FDIC insurance; Public Investing is not a bank. Cryptocurrency trading services are offered by Bakkt Crypto Solutions, LLC (NMLS ID 1890144), which is licensed to engage in virtual currency business activity by the NYSDFS. Cryptocurrency is highly speculative, involves a high degree of risk, and has the potential for loss of the entire amount of an investment. Cryptocurrency holdings are not protected by the FDIC or SIPC.Alpha is an experimental AI tool powered by GPT-4. Its output may be inaccurate and is not investment advice. Public makes no guarantees about its accuracy or reliability—verify independently before use.Rate as of 7/18/25. APY is variable and subject to change.*
Today’s show:
TWiST is back with a three more hugely insightful (and also fun!) founder interviews.
First up, Trey Holterman from Tennr tells us why getting in to see a specialist is so time consuming, and how AI is making the entire health care industry more streamlined.THEN Gill Verdon from Extropic AI unpacks deterministic vs. probabilistic computing, and how thermodynamics can make everything from robots to VR more effective.FINALLY, Tyler Denk from our fav newsletter platform Beehiiv walks us through their future roadmap, and explains why they’re adding new features SO OFTEN.It’s a packed episode full of fresh insights for founders. Check it out!
Timestamps:
(0:00) Alex opens the show with the venture/investor POV on TWiST 500 med tech company Tennr
(03:38) Tennr CEO/co-founder Trey Holterman on the inefficiencies facing medical specialists and why patients are actually “leads”
(10:20) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(11:44) Paid Promo END
(14:05) How Tennr trained an AI model to comb through clinical histories, medical files, and doctor’s notes
(18:19) Why automation matters for Tennr but it’s not the WHOLE story
(20:03) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
(21:10) Paid Promo END
(22:57) The incredible cultural influence of the Dominos Pizza Tracker
(29:57) AWS Activate - AWS Activate helps startups bring their ideas to life. Apply to AWS Activate today to learn more. Visit aws.amazon.com/startups/credits
(31:20) Gill Verdon from Extropic on the difficulty of keeping up with the demand for compute and the “scaling law”
(35:37) Thermodynamic regimes, the differences between deterministic vs. probabilistic computing, and why this matters
(41:31) Gill on expanding Extropic’s research team while keeping a close eye on burn
(52:17) Will robots ever be FULLY autonomous, with no ties or connections back to the fleet? Gill says… maybe!
(58:52) Beehiiv’s Tyler Denk on hitting $20M ARR while ALSO scaling up their ad network
(01:00:35) The practical and psychological importance of product velocity and shipping as many features as possible
(01:01:57) Why Tyler says “Substack vs. Beehiiv” is analogous to “Amazon vs. Shopify”
(01:08:08) How much larger can the newsletter market still GROW? (And the promise of moving beyond content and into marketing emails.)
(01:09:00) Why Tyler thinks the strongest publishers own their audience and distribution
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:20) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(20:03) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
(29:57) AWS Activate - AWS Activate helps startups bring their ideas to life. Apply to AWS Activate today to learn more. Visit aws.amazon.com/startups/credits
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Today’s show:
TWiST is back with a trio of can’t miss interviews with some of our favorite TWiST 500 founders.
First up, John Harris of Harbinger Motors tells us about making his EV batteries right here in the USA, and why the loss of EV tax credits might not hurt the business as much as you’d think…
THEN, we’re talking to James Hawkins of PostHog about how keeping his burn rate low opened up a wealth of new opportunities for his company…
THEN Yoshi Yokokawa from Alpaca HQ stops by to talk about working in a category that’s no longer the hottest thing in the Valley (like fintech) and the importance of stable coins to his business model.
You won’t want to miss this one! Tons of fresh and important insights for founders.
Timestamps:
(0:00) INTRO, The market’s hit an ALL TIME HIGH… what does it mean for founders and smaller companies?
(2:19) Figma’s going IPO… how its success could impact other the entire landscape for the rest of the year.
(10:12) Netsuite - Download the ebook Navigating Global Trade: 3 Insights for Leaders for free at https://www.netsuite.com/twist
(11:29) Harbinger co-founder/CEO John Harris tells us about building EVs for commercial fleet, live FROM the factory
(19:58) Retool - Visit https://www.retool.com/twist and try it out today.
(21:15) Harbinger co-founder/CEO John Harris tells us about building EVs for commercial fleet, live FROM the factory (cont…)
(30:07) .TECH: Say it without saying it. Head to www.get.tech/twist or your favorite registrar to get a clean, sharp .tech domain today.
(31:07) How much of Harbinger’s product is actually manufactured in the US (and why that’s a more complex question than it sounds)
(31:39) Why the rollback of EV tax credits might NOT have a huge impact on Harbinger’s business.
(36:53) James Hawkins of PostHog explains how and why Stripe funded their most recent round.
(40:23) Will it soon be easier to build a virtual product manager than hire the right human person? MAYBE!
(42:11) Why building PostHog as open source was so vital for boosting adoption among developers
(47:45) Why James credits a low burn rate and being “multi-product” with PostHog’s success and traction
(01:00:02) Alpaca CEO and co-founder Yoshi Yokokawa explains to us how the API brokerage infrastructure co. actually makes money
(01:00:41) Why it matters that Alpaca is a “self-clearing market maker”: Yoshi unpacks how trades actually get executed
(01:07:46) The massive impact of Robinhood on the entire fintech business and how this benefits Alpaca
(01:18:06) Yoshi’s tips for founders working in categories that aren’t THE HOTTEST IN THE WORLD right now
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Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:12) Netsuite - Download the ebook Navigating Global Trade: 3 Insights for Leaders for free at https://www.netsuite.com/twist
(19:58) Retool - Visit https://www.retool.com/twist and try it out today.
(30:07) .TECH: Say it without saying it. Head to www.get.tech/twist or your favorite registrar to get a clean, sharp .tech domain today.
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
WHY DOES @SUBSTACKINC NEED $100M IN NEW FUNDING?HOW DO THEY PLAN TO STAY AHEAD OF @BEEHIIV?Jason and Alex are debating the future of indie publishing on an all-new TWiST, considering the future of these rival platforms, plus Patreon and more.PLUS they’re digging into Lovable’s latest raise and what it says about the current economics of vibecoding, surveying the automated driving landscape in light of Uber’s new agreement Lucid and Euro, explaining Jason’s “meme processing” theory of internet humor, AND looking ahead to Christopher Nolan’s IMAX epic “The Odyssey.”Join us for the longest-running and most in-depth podcast on Earth for startup founders.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Intro - Everyone is getting hyped for Nolan’s “The Odyssey”
(03:49) “Meme Processing,” the Astronomer saga, and giving people a little grace
(10:07) INBOUND - Use code TWIST10 for 10% off your General Admission ticket at https://www.inbound.com/register (Valid thru 7/31)
(18:49) Substack vs. Patreon vs. Beehive: Who ya got?!
(19:43) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(29:39) Public - Take your investing to the next level with Public. Build a multi-asset portfolio and earn 4.1% APY on your cash—with no fees or minimums. Start now at public.com/twist.
(37:58) Lovable, vibecoding, and how much AGI might one day be worth
(01:00:36) Uber’s Lucid/Nuro deal: Alex did the math
(01:08:03) Is autonomous driving about to change EVERYTHING? Jason says… YES.
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:07) INBOUND - Use code TWIST10 for 10% off your General Admission ticket at https://www.inbound.com/register (Valid thru 7/31)
(19:43) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(29:39) Public - Take your investing to the next level with Public. Build a multi-asset portfolio and earn 4.1% APY on your cash—with no fees or minimums. Start now at public.com/twist.
All investing involves the risk of loss, including loss of principal. Brokerage services for US-listed, registered securities, options and bonds in a self-directed account are offered by Public Investing, Inc., member FINRA & SIPC. Public Investing offers a High-Yield Cash Account where funds from this account are automatically deposited into partner banks where they earn interest and are eligible for FDIC insurance; Public Investing is not a bank. Cryptocurrency trading services are offered by Bakkt Crypto Solutions, LLC (NMLS ID 1890144), which is licensed to engage in virtual currency business activity by the NYSDFS. Cryptocurrency is highly speculative, involves a high degree of risk, and has the potential for loss of the entire amount of an investment. Cryptocurrency holdings are not protected by the FDIC or SIPC.
Alpha is an experimental AI tool powered by GPT-4. Its output may be inaccurate and is not investment advice. Public makes no guarantees about its accuracy or reliability—verify independently before use.
*Rate as of 7/18/25. APY is variable and subject to change.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Today’s show:
Jason and Alex tackle a full tech and business news docket on today’s show, including Jason’s big SF trip with Launch Accelerator’s 34th cohort, some peculiar social media posts from VC Geoff Lewis, a look inside the HUGE seed rounds being commanded by early-stage AI startups, crunching the numbers on how much compute data centers need to sell before they’re profitable, Polymarket asks who will be the next CEO of X and MUCH MUCH MORE.
Join us for the longest-running and most in-depth podcast on Earth for startup founders.
Timestamps:
(00:00) INTRO
(01:31) Jason’s in SF with LAUNCH Accelerator cohort 34… His take on the mood in Silicon Valley.
(07:52) Odd X posts from Bedrock Capital’s Geoff Lewis… what does it all mean?
(10:09) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(14:44) Ask JCal: What founders can do to guard their own mental health and well-being
(20:17) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
(22:04) Thinking Machines Lab set a new record for a seed round: what’s going on with these MEGA deals?
(28:51) Alex (and Kabir from LAUNCH’s research team) investigated the economics of data centers… just HOW MUCH can you make from selling compute? And how long does it TAKE to turn a profit?
(30:52) Bolt - Don’t be left behind. Build apps quickly without knowing how to code with Bolt.new. Try it free at https://www.bolt.new/twist.
(37:09) Superintelligence vs. AGI: Jason thinks we’re still more than 2-3 years away…
(39:52) GPx is not a traditional VC fund: here’s what industry vet Brian Singerman is up to
(49:37) The importance of setting your own corporate culture… before it gets set for you!
(58:15) Polymarket has ideas for the next X CEO… see where Jason ranks on the list!
(01:03:18) Reddit wants to know… Do investors judge founders negatively who rely on lots of AI tools?
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
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Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:09) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(20:17) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
(30:52) Bolt - Don’t be left behind. Build apps quickly without knowing how to code with Bolt.new. Try it free at https://www.bolt.new/twist.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
On today’s show… Jason and Alex are considering the fallout of Windsurf’s OpenAI deal, the company’s latest agreements with both Google and Cognition AI, and how “blitzhiring” is actually playing out in real-world startups.Plus Jason’s short- and medium-term predictions for AI’s impact on the job market, Tesla’s latest expansion of its Austin robotaxi service, Mistral giving the EU a real stake in the AI model race, a look back at the SnapStream live TV archiving service, AND an update on how much more time we have until all our servers are obsolete.All that and more on a brand new Monday edition of This Week in Startups.
Timestamps:
(02:20) Influencers caught an arsonist in LA’s Runyon Canyon? (Don’t worry, there’s always a startup angle)
(10:38) Coda - Empower your startup with Coda’s Team plan for free—get 6 months at https://www.Coda.io/twist
(12:56) Windsurf’s OpenAI deal fell through… but there are breaking updates!
(20:11) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(23:46) The gap from prototype to production in AI remains HUGE
(29:52) AWS Activate - AWS Activate helps startups bring their ideas to life. Apply to AWS Activate today to learn more. Visit aws.amazon.com/startups/credits
(34:56) Things are going well for Tesla’s Austin rollout, but will regulators demand LIDAR systems anyway?
(45:47) Maybe NOTHING that’s happening right now in AI is as important as what’s to come?
(54:31) Follow-Up: So how much more time until all of our servers are obsolete? What happens to them when they’re removed?
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:38) Coda - Empower your startup with Coda’s Team plan for free—get 6 months at https://www.Coda.io/twist
(20:11) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(29:52) AWS Activate - AWS Activate helps startups bring their ideas to life. Apply to AWS Activate today to learn more. Visit aws.amazon.com/startups/credits
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Grok 4 just leapfrogged OpenAI to become the top AI model—and it’s not just hype. In this episode, @Jason and @alex break down Grok’s AGI-level performance, the massive drop in LLM pricing, and why some companies are raising prices anyway. They also dive into the Missouri AG’s investigation into AI “bias,” the future of First Amendment protections for LLMs, and how autonomous vehicles are creating a new category: “autonomous commerce.” If you’re building with AI or betting on the future of tech, don’t miss this one.
Timestamps:
(1:55) AI models: Grok 4 and performance benchmarks(3:51) Detailed analysis of AI model performance and price trends(10:11) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist(11:25) AI models' problem-solving capabilities and timeline for solving math problems(16:53) Legal and regulatory challenges for AI
(19:56) Retool - Visit https://www.retool.com/twist and try it out today.(21:12) Bias in AI models and political implications(30:41) Vouched - Trust for agents that’s built for builders like you. Check it out at http://vouched.id/twist(32:07) Infinite energy potential and AI impact; Bitcoin's new high(37:11) Crypto regulation and fintech under new administration(45:50) Future of storage, computing power, and GPU lifespan in data centers(53:40) Claude segment by Anthropic(55:09) Guest Ben Seidl of Autolane introduction(57:19) Autolane's impact on autonomous vehicles and commerce(59:05) Rise of autonomous commerce and logistics(1:06:37) Retailer issues with autonomous vehicle integration and orchestration
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:11) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(19:56) Retool - Visit https://www.retool.com/twist and try it out today.(30:41) Vouched - Trust for agents that’s built for builders like you. Check it out at http://vouched.id/twist
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
In this episode of AI Basics, Jason sits down with Yoav Shoham — Stanford professor emeritus and co-founder of AI21 Labs, creators of Jurassic-2, Wordtune, and the new orchestration system Maestro.
They unpack:
- Why enterprise AI struggles with reliability
- What orchestration really means (and why LLMs alone aren't enough)
- The pitfalls of “agent-washing”
- Small vs large models, agent-to-agent protocols, and where real opportunities lie
This one is for founders building with AI — if you're navigating hallucinations, chasing automation, or exploring multi-agent workflows, this episode is a must.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Yoav Shoham joins Jason to discuss AI Basics.
(1:05) What AI21 Labs is building — from Jurassic-2 to Maestro
(5:49) The overuse and confusion of the seductive term “agent”
(8:22) Small models vs large models: what's best for enterprise?
(10:53) The verticalization of AI: legal, accounting, and beyond
(12:17) The challenge of agent-to-agent communication and shared semantics
(17:08) What’s overhyped vs underhyped in AI — Yoav’s advice for founders
*
Uncover more valuable insights from AI leaders in Google Cloud's 'Future of AI: Perspectives for Startups' report.
https://goo.gle/futureofai
*
Explore Further
Google Cloud’s Report: The Future of AI
Get insights from 23 leading experts on how startups can leverage AI for real business impact.
👉 Read the full report
More AI Basics Episodes
Founders, operators, and builders — catch up on our full Startup Basics series (Legal, Finance, Growth & AI):
👉 thisweekinstartups.com/basics
Links from episde:
- Google Cloud — Build smarter with AI tools built for startups
- AI21 Labs — Makers of Wordtune, Jurassic-2, and Maestro
- Maestro — Orchestrate AI agents and tools across workflows
- Jamba — AI21’s hybrid language model with breakthrough efficiency
Learn About Google’s A2A (Agent-to-Agent) Protocol
The next evolution in agent interoperability and coordination:
- Official A2A Announcement
-
Hands-on A2A Tutorial (Medium)
-
* Follow Yoav:
X: https://x.com/yshoham
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yoavshoham/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
On a brand new TWiST, Jason and Alex ponder… What if every Tesla doubled as a Starlink-powered Wi-Fi hotspot? Plus, Nvidia’s historic $4T valuation, Perplexity’s fancy new AI browser that literally books flights, Linda Yaccarino steps down as X CEO, Waymo launches teen accounts, and maybe recording everything all the time has some disadvantages? Later, Tim Ranzetta joins to explain how his nonprofit is making personal finance mandatory in high schools. A must-watch for founders, investors, and anyone navigating the future of tech.
Timestamps:
(03:04) Linda Y is out at X but it’s NOT because of Grok’s Hitler moment
(09:59) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(13:23) Nvidia is worth more than any other company EVER?
(17:40) Granola’s charging individuals MORE than business accounts? But why?
(20:42) INBOUND - Use code TWIST10 for 10% off your General Admission ticket at https://www.inbound.com/register. (Valid thru 7/31)
(23:39) Jason thinks the AI recording and transcript lawsuits will begin by next year…
(24:05) Perplexity launches the Comet browser: we’re checking how it compares with Dia and other rivals!
(30:07) Bolt - Don’t be left behind. Build apps quickly without knowing how to code with Bolt.new. Try it free at https://www.Bolt.new/twist.
(34:09) Waymo is expanding… Why there’s no shame in the robotaxi game…
(41:28) Robinhood is tokenizing US equities for EU investors… we unpack what it all means and how it works.
(49:18) Tim Ranzetta of Next Gen Personal Finance tells us what we don’t teach kids about finance and what they most need to know
(01:29:25) Why finance and investing is all about psychology, and how to “think in bets”
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(09:59) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(20:42) INBOUND - Use code TWIST10 for 10% off your General Admission ticket at https://www.inbound.com/register. (Valid thru 7/31)
(30:07) Bolt - Don’t be left behind. Build apps quickly without knowing how to code with Bolt.new. Try it free at https://www.Bolt.new/twist.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
Cloud seeding startup Rainmaker faced a viral backlash after deadly floods in Texas—so @Jason hosted an emergency X Spaces with founder Augustus Doricko to unpack what really happened. Did Rainmaker cause the floods? How much water can cloud seeding actually produce? Is it safe, and should we even be doing it? They dive into the science, conspiracy theories, regulation, and how cloud seeding compares to desalination as a tool to fight drought and preserve ecosystems. A fascinating, good-faith convo on the future of climate tech.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Cloud seeding controversy and its impact on Texas floods(2:24) Background and impact of the Texas flooding event(8:05) Comparing cloud seeding to other environmental solutions(10:20) Discussing population, water distribution, and environmental restoration(14:22) Cloud seeding timeline, feasibility, and solar panels on water canals(17:17) Ethics, concerns, and regulatory framework for cloud seeding(24:07) Public safety, ethical considerations, and social media interactions regarding cloud seeding(26:00) Closing remarks and future collaboration
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
Startup exits are heating up with $67.7B in Q2 activity, QSBS just got a major expansion, and Robinhood is pushing boundaries with tokenized SPVs. In this episode, @Jason and @alex break down what it all means for founders and investors, plus the rise of Elon’s “America Party,” TikTok’s potential reboot, and why SaaS startups must rebrand around AI to stay competitive. A must-watch for anyone building, investing, or navigating tech in 2025.
Timestamps:
(04:29) Jason’s thoughts on Elon Musk’s America Party
(10:05) Oracle - Try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist
(15:02) M&A keeps heating up and why a big fintech IPO could be on the way!
(20:00) OpenPhone - Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(26:32) Unpacking liquidation preferences for non-experts
(29:11) AI companies are soaking up the majority of investment dollars but what does that really MEAN?
(30:02) MonarchMoney - Get 50% off your first year by going to MonarchMoney.com and using the offer code TWiST
(36:26) Why Jason’s group chat will love the QSBS expansion but it’s not really that big of a deal…
(46:27) TikTok seems poised to make a deal… Why Jason thinks they do pose a national security threat.
(59:22) Why is CoreWeave picking up Core Scientific, and is now a good time to sell your shares?
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(10:05) Oracle - Try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist
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Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
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Today’s show:
It’s another blockbuster panel of insiders, as Alex sits down with Astasia Myers from Felicis, Matt Turck from First Mark Capital, and D.A. Wallach of Time BioVentures. AI is reshaping early-stage investing, with startups raising record-setting rounds adn chasing $100B+ markets. Meanwhile, biotech faces a “Great Depression” as public markets stay shut, putting added pressure on private capital. In healthcare, AI-powered virtual doctors promise to bring world-class medical advice to everyone, while fertility tech could revolutionize IVF by automating embryo handling and slashing costs. Hear our VC experts exclusive thoughts on these trends and much more!
Timestamps:
(2:21) The post-Q2 landscape and everyone’s immediate reactions
(05:00) Why biotech is in a “Great Depression,” even for AI companies!
(9:36) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech(12:14) Overpriced vs. high-performing: Do high prices ALWAYS mean low expected returns and vice versa?
(14:50) Mega markets: how AI is different from past software shifts(18:58) Everyone’s companies are CRUSHING IT: why genAI has crazy tailwinds right now
(20:33) Sentry - New users get 3 months free of the Business plan (covers 150k errors). Go to http://sentry.io/twist and use code TWIST(21:46) Product-market fit and revenue durability in AI(24:29) Marketing and community development for early stage founders(25:14) AI advancements in humor, avatars, and healthcare(29:30) Public - Take your investing to the next level with Public. Build a multi-asset portfolio and earn 4.1% APY on your cash—with no fees or minimums. Start now at public.com/twist.(30:45) Healthcare innovation and AI foundation models(35:37) AI differentiation, OpenAI valuation, and infrastructure companies(43:08) User experience in LLMs and AI inference costs(51:21) AI healthcare applications and founding team trends(56:28) Hiring trends, burn rates, and outsourcing in biotech(1:01:51) Government investment in biotech and the European AI ecosystem(1:06:43) Academic founders and the Felicis Fellows program(1:09:10) Recent exits and the outlook for the upcoming quarters(1:12:27) Innovations in fertility treatments and prenatal testing(1:15:51) Summary of bullish trends and future outlook(1:16:14) Closing remarks and future check-in plans
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(9:36) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech
(20:33) Sentry - New users get 3 months free of the Business plan (covers 150k errors). Go to http://sentry.io/twist and use code TWIST
(29:30) Public - Take your investing to the next level with Public. Build a multi-asset portfolio and earn 4.1% APY on your cash—with no fees or minimums. Start now at public.com/twist
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
Grammarly is acquiring the beloved email app Superhuman! In today’s extremely timely episode, @alex sits down with Grammarly CEO Shishir Mehrotra and Superhuman founder Rahul Vohra to unpack why they’re merging, how they plan to combine apps and AI agents, and what it means for the future of email and work. PLUS they reveal how Grammarly’s 40M+ daily users already rely on email—and why this deal is the key to building the ultimate communication assistant. Don’t miss this deep dive into one of the most exciting AI acquisitions yet!
AI #Startups #Productivity #Grammarly #Superhuman #VentureCapital #MergersAndAcquisitions
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction to the future of robotics and AI regulation(1:11) Introduction of hosts and overview of today's topics(4:19) Cloudflare's new pay per crawl product
(09:37) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!(10:41) Polymarket segment on Apple's acquisition prospects(14:29) Grammarly and Superhuman CEOs interviews
(19:42) Retool - Visit https://www.retool.com/twist and try it out today.(24:09) AI in productivity tools and email agents discussion(29:23) AWS Activate - AWS Activate helps startups bring their ideas to life. Apply to AWS Activate today to learn more. Visit aws.amazon.com/startups/credits(30:46) Grammarly's AI platform and the acquisition of Superhuman(41:16) Introduction of Manu Sharma from Labelbox(41:47) The role of data labeling in AI and Labelbox's data factory(53:44) Labelbox's market position and capital efficiency post-ChatGPT(1:03:00) Advances in humanoid robotics with Jeff Cardenas from Apptronik(1:07:09) Market readiness and capabilities of Apollo 2 robots(1:13:27) Humanoid robotics: Google DeepMind partnership and international competition(1:20:54) US federal support for R&D in robotics(1:22:10) The evolution of humanoid robotics and Apptronik's growth in Austin
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(09:37) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
(19:42) Retool - Visit https://www.retool.com/twist and try it out today.
(29:23) AWS Activate - AWS Activate helps startups bring their ideas to life. Apply to AWS Activate today to learn more. Visit aws.amazon.com/startups/credits
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Jason sits down with Balaji Srinivasan in Singapore to explore how he's turning years of theory into reality with Network School—the first node of a broader vision for internet-native, decentralized societies. Balaji explains how these “sharp societies” combine education, co-living, and startup culture to create physical communities aligned by values, not geography. From digital nomads to aspiring founders, people are opting into these new systems as an alternative to broken traditional governance. They discuss everything from Starbase and sovereignty to the future of democracy, Bitcoin, and America’s place in a multipolar world.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction of Balaji Srinivasan and the impact of Bitcoin(1:39) The concept of Network School and Network State, including startup societies(4:05) Benefits and historical context of network effects in communities(7:08) Economic and social benefits of Network School(9:35) Global appeal and diverse motivations of Network School participants
(10:22) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(12:30) Media perspectives on new societies and the challenge of self-determination
(19:35) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist(24:00) Personal experiences with US state migration and critique of California politics(27:11) The right to exit, thousand city system, and the two-party system
(29:44) Vouched - Trust for agents that’s built for builders like you. Check it out at http://vouched.id/twist(31:09) Choosing a country like choosing a college and impressions of new cities(34:03) America's global reputation, politics, and the decline of empires(39:25) Dollar devaluation, Bitcoin's future, and global currency dynamics(41:26) Global power struggles: China versus the Internet and US demographics(44:01) Trump's tariffs, MAGA, and international trade realities(48:12) China's manufacturing dominance and US diplomatic legacy(54:39) The Internet's counterbalance to China and Bitcoin's future risks(1:00:31) Role of cryptocurrencies, quantum computing, and Bitcoin security(1:02:12) Cryptocurrency challenges and the resilience of Bitcoin(1:03:27) Network school state community and opportunities for investors(1:04:01) Closing remarks and final pitch for Network School
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(10:22) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(19:35) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(29:44) Vouched - Trust for agents that’s built for builders like you. Check it out at http://vouched.id/twist(0:00)
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
EVs are igniting a global tariff war, and Xiaomi’s shockingly cheap, high-quality electric cars threaten to obliterate Western automakers, sparking fears of a manufacturing wipeout. In today’s brand-new TWiST, Jason and Alex dive into the EV price war, Uber’s rumored plan to team up with Travis Kalanick on a self-driving takeover, and DoorDash’s mega-drones giving us a glimpse of the future of food delivery. Plus, Tesla’s cautious safety driver rollout shows we’re only in the early innings of the autonomous revolution, a consideration of Meta’s talent shopping spree, AND a new edition of Reddit Rapid Response. Don’t miss this deep dive into the future of cars, delivery, and AI.
Timestamps:
(02:24) Guess who’s BACK at Uber? On the Travis Kalahnik-Pony AI deal.
(10:43) Superpower - Visit superpower.com/twist to get $50 off your membership. This offer is only for the first 100 twist listeners who sign up.
(17:24) All the huge opportunities for Kalshi, PolyMarket and prediction markets
(19:44) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(25:37) TODAY’S POLYMARKET: How well will Apple’s “F1” do at the box office?
(30:03) Pilot - Visit https://www.pilot.com/twist and get $1,200 off your first year.
(31:58)What actually IS AGI? And why does it matter for the Microsoft-OpenAI negotiation?
(45:57) Inside Meta’s massive Superintelligence shopping spree: maybe it’s not so crazy to pay AI experts $100M?
(01:05:15) Reddit Rapid Response: Can you be a great founder if you hate doing cold sales?
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(10:43) Superpower - Visit superpower.com/twist to get $50 off your membership. This offer is only for the first 100 twist listeners who sign up.
(19:44) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist(30:03) Pilot - Visit https://www.pilot.com/twist and get $1,200 off your first year.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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In this episode, Jason dives deep into the future of multi-agent systems with Saurabh Tiwary, VP & GM of Cloud AI at Google. They explore how teams of AI agents—not just single models—can collaborate to solve complex problems, helping startups scale faster with fewer resources.
Saurabh introduces Google Cloud’s open frameworks:
- Agent Development Kit (ADK) for building flexible, debuggable agents
- Agent-to-Agent (A2A) Protocol, now part of the Linux Foundation
- The emerging Multi-Agent Collaboration Protocol, enabling AI systems to work across platforms and organizations
They also discuss:
- Why AI agents are evolving from task-doers to decision-makers
- How multimodal inputs (text, image, video, voice) will supercharge agent capabilities
- Why openness and interoperability will define the next era of AI infrastructure
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason introduces Saurabh Tiwary, VP & GM of Cloud AI at Google, and sets the stage for a deep dive on autonomous agents.
(1:09) What is an AI Agent Today?
(2:54) When Will Agents Actually Work?l
(6:30) Inside Google’s ADK (Agent Development Kit)
(8:35l) Agent-to-Agent Protocol & Open AI Standards
(11:35 ) Why Human-in-the-Loop Still Matters
(13:41) What’s Next: Multimodal Agents & Real Startup Use Cases
*
Google Cloud Report: “The Future of AI: Perspectives for Startups”
Free download → https://goo.gle/futureofai
Google Cloud Homepage
https://cloud.google.com/
Google Cloud: Agent Development Kit (ADK)
https://developers.googleblog.com/en/agent-development-kit-easy-to-build-multi-agent-applications/
https://cloud.google.com/vertex-ai/generative-ai/docs/agent-development-kit/quickstart
Agent-to-Agent (A2A) Protocol by Google
https://developers.googleblog.com/en/a2a-a-new-era-of-agent-interoperability/
Linux Foundation: A2A Protocol Overview
https://www.linuxfoundation.org/press/linux-foundation-launches-the-agent2agent-protocol-project-to-enable-secure-intelligent-communication-between-ai-agents
Google Research: AI Agents & Multi-Agent Systems
https://research.google/blog/accelerating-scientific-breakthroughs-with-an-ai-co-scientist/
https://cloud.google.com/transform/ai-agents-evolving-with-google-agentspace
Google’s Agentspace https://cloud.google.com/products/agentspace?hl=en
Google’s Vertex AI Agent Builder
https://cloud.google.com/products/agent-builder?hl=en
Watch more AI Basics episodes
https://thisweekinstartups.com/basics
*
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*
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*
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Today’s show:
In this powerhouse VC roundtable, @Jason sits down with Sequoia’s Doug Leone and Cyberstarts’ Gili Raanan to share brutally honest insights on startup recruiting, evaluating second-time founders, and how to truly find product-market fit. They break down why big-tech résumés can be misleading, how to structure early teams, and what separates “missionary” talent from mercenaries. Plus, the myth of early ARR, the art of founder-board trust, and how AI is (and isn’t) reshaping startup velocity. Must-watch for founders, VCs, and anyone building from 0 to 1.
Timestamps:
(03:25) The origins of Wiz and how VCs know when to invest
(05:17) What qualities are investors looking for in founders and entrepreneurs?
(09:53) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(18:40) How to know when you’ve reached true Product Market Fit: the experts sound off
(19:20) Notion - Try it for free today at https://notion.com/twist
(25:39) The secrets of recruiting top talent
(29:54) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech
(39:38) Judging a startup’s revenue quality and “founder vs. salesman” deals
(53:38) Is venture capital kind of a SCAM?
(55:00) Seed Investing: “Pick them right and early”
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Thank you to our partners:
(09:53) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(19:20) Notion - Try it for free today at https://notion.com/twist(29:54) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
Tesla’s robotaxi launch, AI producers, job destruction, and smart toilets? In this episode of This Week in Startups, @Jason and @alex break down Tesla’s cautious rollout strategy, how AI is quietly replacing producers and employees, why second-movers like Tesla and Ramp often win, and how Throne Science is turning gut health into a billion-dollar market—with cameras in your toilet. Buckle up.
Timestamps:
(02:11) Introducing… PRODUCER CLAUDE!
(04:21) Tesla’s Robotaxis are out and about! But are they SAFE?!
(09:49) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(19:35) Netsuite - Download the ebook Navigating Global Trade: 3 Insights for Leaders for free at https://www.netsuite.com/twist
(24:07) Grabbing market share, and why there’s “no reason to rush”
(29:59) INBOUND - Use code TWIST10 for 10% o your General Admission ticket at https://www.inbound.com/register (Valid thru 7/31)
(39:53) AI, Job Destruction, and what leaders aren’t saying out loud…
(48:43) Which startups are doing the most with the smallest teams?
(57:49) Mark Zuckerberg has entered FOUNDER MODE
(01:05:48) How Throne Science is improving everyone’s gut health
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Thank you to our partners:
(09:49) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(19:35) Netsuite - Download the ebook Navigating Global Trade: 3 Insights for Leaders for free at https://www.netsuite.com/twist
(29:59) INBOUND - Use code TWIST10 for 10% o your General Admission ticket at https://www.inbound.com/register (Valid thru 7/31)
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
AI has been feasting on the open web—but is the free lunch over? In this explosive episode, @Jason and @alex call out OpenAI and others for “strip mining” the internet’s content without paying creators. As lawsuits pile up and new defenses like AI-robots.txt emerge, a reckoning looms. Will AI be forced to pay for its training data? Dive into the legal, ethical, and business implications—including Substack’s stance, Cloudflare’s firewall, and Perplexity’s lawsuits—in what may be a turning point for the future of the web.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Concerns about AI data sourcing and sustainability(1:43) Recent travels and airline industry insights(5:28) Meta's AI strategy and market competition
(10:20) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist(11:50) Meta's financial moves and AI focus(17:08) Midjourney's advancements in video AI
(20:30) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!(21:33) Twist 500 companies and Cloudflare's anti-AI scraping tool(27:09) AI scraping: creator impact and regulation debate
(30:18) Retool - Visit https://www.retool.com/twist and try it out today.(31:23) BBC lawsuit and Perplexity's AI challenges(35:44) Office hours with Giram Taitana of Doctours(42:55) Medical tourism: Psilocybin, IVF, and consumer trust(49:33) Design's role in trust and safety for medical platforms(55:57) Doctours' fundraising and insurance strategies(1:00:08) SEO and domain name tips for startups(1:02:50) Tesla's robo taxi launch and implications(1:08:13) Andy Jassy on AI's impact on employment(1:10:09) Discussing global job displacement and China's youth unemployment(1:14:53) The gig economy in the age of advanced AI
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Thank you to our partners:
(10:20) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
(20:30) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!(30:18) Retool - Visit https://www.retool.com/twist and try it out today.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
In this episode, @Jason and @alex explore how AI is reshaping the economy—from Pano AI’s $44M raise to fight wildfires with drones, to Amazon CEO Andy Jassy’s memo foreshadowing white-collar job cuts, to Meta’s stealth move poaching Scale AI talent. They dig into the collapse of early-career roles, the slow disappearance of the gig economy safety net, and why founders may want to think twice before building in public.
Timestamps:
(1:52) Travel chaos, laundry issues, and the Airbnb event(3:05) CO2 conference highlights and Zipline drone delivery innovation(5:24) AI’s effect on job disruption and white-collar retraining(09:46) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(11:01) Jassy on AI’s workforce impact and boosting teacher roles(13:23) Media evolution: market resilience and direct communication strategies(20:08) INBOUND - Use code TWIST10 for 10% o your General Admission ticket at https://www.inbound.com/register (Valid thru 7/31)(21:14) OpenAI’s podcast, corporate media shifts, and Twist 500 highlights(30:02) NWRA - Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!(31:20) Insurance, AI, and OpenAI’s enterprise focus(41:11) Meta and Traversal’s AI bets; startup transparency(48:57) TikTok, US-China tension, and data privacy debate(56:43) Actuality.ai’s platform for AI-driven RFPs and enterprise pricing insights(1:11:00) Wrap-up and final thoughts with Rishab Gupta
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Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(09:46) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(20:08) INBOUND - Use code TWIST10 for 10% o your General Admission ticket at https://www.inbound.com/register (Valid thru 7/31)
(30:02) NWRA - Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
Meta just took a 49% stake in Scale AI, and the shockwaves are hitting the entire AI ecosystem. In this episode, @Jason and @alex unpack the deal’s implications: Google ($150M customer!) and others are fleeing Scale, worried Meta will hoard its RLHF infrastructure and cut off competitors. Startups like Labelbox, Turing, and Handshake are already seeing a demand surge. Is this smart vertical integration or anti-competitive overreach? Jason shares tactical advice for founders on how to capitalize when incumbents stumble—hire ex-Scale talent, build “Scale AI alternative” SEO pages, and hit the podcast circuit. Don’t miss this deep dive into AI’s shifting power dynamics.
Timestamps:
(04:01) Is Jason becoming an AI doomer?!
(9:52) OpenPhone - Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/twist
(13:47) PostHog, and when is it okay for founders to break the rules?
(20:56) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(25:50) Why the Navy is recruiting startups
(30:12) Pilot - Visit https://www.pilot.com/twist and get $1,200 off your first year.
(39:09) Did Zuck buy Scale in order to keep it from competitors?
(56:08) When does incentivizing customers turn into burning capital?
(1:04) How raising too much money could KILL your startup!
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(9:52) OpenPhone - Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/twist
(20:56) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(30:52) Pilot - Visit https://www.pilot.com/twist and get $1,200 off your first year.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show:
In this episode of This Week in Startups, @Jason and @Alex break down Stripe’s big bet on crypto wallets with its latest acquisition of Privy, the return of major M&A activity from Meta, DoorDash, and Stripe, and the rapid rise of robotics replacing soul-crushing warehouse jobs. They dive into why today’s toy-like robot arms will become tomorrow’s billion-dollar tools, how stablecoins are quietly transforming fintech, and why Disney is going to war with AI platforms over IP theft. A must-watch if you’re building, investing, or just trying to understand where tech is headed next.
Timestamps:
(1:48) Startup Tip: "Find a service you hate and make it better"
(9:23) Why Stripe wants crypto wallet company Privy
(10:09) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(15:46) Klarna: The New Rent-a-Center?
(20:00) Superpower - Visit superpower.com/twist to get $50 off your membership. This offer is only for the first 100 twist listeners who sign up.
(26:28) Why M&A is good and Lena Khan was wrong
(30:00) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
(33:20) Robots are going to make your life better
(42:11) When toys become tools
(46:25) Tesla's on-the-road FSD tests... do they need safety drivers?
(54:13) Jason has the answer for all these AI copyright suits
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
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Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:09) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(20:00) Superpower - Visit superpower.com/twist to get $50 off your membership. This offer is only for the first 100 twist listeners who sign up.
(30:00) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Alex moderates a TWIST VC Roundtable with Jason, Paige Doherty (Behind Genius), and Altimeter’s Megan Reynolds about the state of early-stage venture capital. They break down the rise of secondary markets as a key liquidity path for VCs, analyze the resurgence in M&A activity from major players like Meta, Databricks, and OpenAI, and question whether inflated ARR figures from YC startups are distorting valuations. Jason shares his year-zero investment thesis and offers tactical advice on secondary structuring and identifying high-quality revenue. Whether you're raising, investing, or building, this episode delivers essential insights into the evolving early-stage landscape.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Episode Teaser(1:28) Meet our panelists!(2:37) Will secondaries replace traditional M&A?(10:10) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups(14:28) Has M&A actually bounced back?(20:06) Pilot - Visit https://www.pilot.com/twist and get $1,200 off your first year.(25:35) Secondary market advice, just for founders(30:10) Retool - Visit https://www.retool.com/twist and try it out today.(32:49) Why is it so hard for emerging managers to raise funds?
(38:28) Seed funds: the math is not mathing(52:07) Why early investors become “collateral damage”(56:31) The importance of revenue quality in early-stage startups(1:06:43) Quick Fire Question Round!
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Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Links from episode:
Altimeter: https://www.altimeter.com/homeBehind Genius: https://www.behindgeniusventures.com/
Follow Meghan:
X: https://x.com/MeghanKReynolds
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meghankreynolds/
Follow Paige:X: https://x.com/paigefinnn
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paigedoherty/
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:10) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(20:06) Pilot - Visit https://www.pilot.com/twist and get $1,200 off your first year.
(30:10) Retool - Visit https://www.retool.com/twist and try it out today.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Jason and Alex dive into why Y Combinator startups are raising at sky-high valuations with relatively low ARR—what does that mean for investors and founders? VC funds are slowing down and returning to pre-ZIRP pacing, signaling a reset in the market. Plus, in this week’s Office Hours, Sean Steigerwald, founder of CustomerIQ, demos his AI sales agent that lives in your inbox, drafting follow-ups using CRM context. It’s a deep look at early-stage investing, startup efficiency, and where AI is headed in enterprise.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Episode Teaser(2:09) Jason's Singapore trip recap and SoCal update(9:51) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(11:40) New rumblings from Mistral; is the French AI startup catching a tail wind?(19:40) Fidelity Private Shares℠ - Visit https://fidelityprivateshares.com! Mention our podcast and receive 20% off your first-year paid subscription.(26:23) VC investing pace is slowing... what does this mean for founders(29:42) INBOUND - Use code TWIST10 for 10% o your General Admission ticket at https://www.inbound.com/register (Valid thru 7/31)(33:33) Founders' guide to raising capital(36:31) Gen AI companies are growing FAST but are there concerns about churn?(42:46) Is YC still worth it? Debating paper gains vs. DPI as metrics.(52:18) Office Hours with Sean Steigerald from Customer IQ: managing active users and more.
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Links from episode:
Customer IQ: https://www.getcustomeriq.com/
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(9:51) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(19:40) Fidelity Private Shares℠ - Visit https://fidelityprivateshares.com! Mention our podcast and receive 20% off your first-year paid subscription.
(29:42) INBOUND - Use code TWIST10 for 10% o your General Admission ticket at https://www.inbound.com/register (Valid thru 7/31)
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Jason and Alex dicuss stories shaping the tech and startup world: Circle’s explosive IPO and what it signals about crypto regulation and public market sentiment, the potential for tokenized venture capital funds to bring liquidity and transparency to startup investing, and Cursor’s extraordinary growth—scaling to over $500M in ARR in just six months.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Episode Teaser(2:25) Circle’s IPO is Soaring and What This Means for Tech(10:21) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist(12:00) Is Tokenization the Future of Venture Capital?(20:20) Coda - Empower your startup with Coda’s Team plan for free—get 6 months at https://www.Coda.io/twist(22:40) Oh, THAT’S Why Anthropic Cutoff Windsurf(27:06) Can the Rippling - Deel Saga Get Anymore Bizarre?(30:22) Sentry - New users get 3 months free of the Team plan (covers 150k errors). Go to http://sentry.io/twist and use code TWIST(34:08) Cursor Just Keeps on Winning(43:10) Polymarket: What Will Jerome Powell Do?
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Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:21) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
(20:20) Coda - Empower your startup with Coda’s Team plan for free—get 6 months at https://www.Coda.io/twist
(30:22) Sentry - New users get 3 months free of the Team plan (covers 150k errors). Go to http://sentry.io/twist and use code TWIST
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Alex and Lon discuss Windsurf getting abruptly cut off from Anthropic just before a rumored $3B acquisition by OpenAI, sparking questions around platform risk and foundation-model politics; Deel defends itself by arguing the information it allegedly took was public or obvious, complicating its ongoing legal saga; and Flock Safety’s neighborhood-focused surveillance tech—combining LPR cameras and drones—positions itself as a privacy-conscious tool that gives elected officials control over community data governance.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Episode Teaser(2:48) ADP's Employment Numbers Might Make Your Eyes Water(5:54) Is the Circle IPO Over Subscribed?(9:25) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist(13:00) Anthropic Shows Sharp Elbows With Windsurf(19:55) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist(20:57) Is It Really Stealing If It’s Public or Obvious? Deel Says No(29:23) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!(30:50) The Space Future Alex Has Dreamed About(35:10) Anthropic Can’t Stop Scraping Reddit’s Data(42:44) Flock Safety is Bringing Surveillance To a Neighborhood Near You
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Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Links from episode:
Impulse Space: https://www.impulsespace.com/
Flock Safety: https://www.flocksafety.com/
Follow Garrett:
X: https://x.com/glangley
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glangley/
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(9:25) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(19:55) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(29:23) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Jason and Alex discuss the hottest tech and startup news: Grammarly secures a massive $1B investment from General Catalyst to fuel its AI ambitions and expand into deeper enterprise offerings; a DARPA-backed brain-computer interface startup emerges as a serious Neuralink rival, signaling renewed momentum in the neurotech space; and The New York Times signs a licensing deal with Amazon, suggesting that traditional media may be starting to find common ground with large language models.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Episode Teaser(1:26) Jason's take on Singapore's regional cuisine(5:50) Why founders should get permission first and more lessons from Udio, Suno, and Spotify(10:07) Oracle - Try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist(15:54) The New York Times and Amazon signed a landmark AI deal: what's in it?(20:18) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(25:36) Why is Grammarly worth so much money?(30:14) Notion - Try it for free today at https://notion.com/twist(39:15) How does Autopilot make money?(43:03) So how long until we all have a computer in our brain?(54:43) How much does revenue predictability really matter?(59:26) Laurene Powell Jobs and Jony Ive go FULL DOOMER(1:03:35) Perplexity, Samsung, and the rest...
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Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Links from episode:
Udio: https://www.udio.com/
Jason’s Stolen Voice: https://x.com/Jason/status/1928995534276088151Autopilot: https://www.joinautopilot.com/
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:07) Oracle - Try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist
(20:18) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(30:14) Notion - Try it for free today at https://notion.com/twist
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Alex interviews two cutting-edge startups shaping the future of AI: AthenaHQ, pioneering “GEO” (Generative Engine Optimization) to help brands rank in AI-powered search engines like ChatGPT and Gemini, and Browser Use, building infrastructure that lets AI agents take real actions on the web—from form-filling to workflow automation. Both teams dive deep into how fast AI is evolving, how brands and developers can stay competitive, and why adaptability and technical precision are key in the era of intelligent search and autonomous agents.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Episode Teaser(1:54) Athena HQ's Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) strategy(10:05) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(14:51) Will GEO Market Adoption Forever CHange Marketing?(19:50) Fidelity Private Shares℠ - Visit https://fidelityprivateshares.com! Mention our podcast and receive 20% off your first-year paid subscription.(22:58) How Being AI Model Agnostic Gives You An Edge(29:54) Superpower - Superpower - Visit superpower.com/twist to get $50 off your membership. This offer is only for the first 100 twist listeners who sign up. (35:13) Browser Use and Making Smarter AI Agents(45:03) Will AI Agents Do Your Grocery Shopping For You?
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Links from episode:
AthenHQ: https://www.athenahq.ai/
Browser Use: https://browser-use.com/
Follow Andrew:
X: https://x.com/andrewyan200
Follow Magnus:X: https://x.com/mamagnus00
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:05) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(19:50) Fidelity Private Shares℠ - Visit https://fidelityprivateshares.com! Mention our podcast and receive 20% off your first-year paid subscription.
(29:54) Superpower - The best founders know: better health = better business. Visit http://superpower.com/twist to skip the waitlist.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
In this episode, we cover three major stories shaping the startup and tech landscape. First, Google unveils Stitch, an AI-powered web design tool with one-click export to Figma—signaling a major disruption for freelance design marketplaces. Then, Salesforce returns to M&A with its $8B acquisition of Informatica, aiming to broaden its AI data stack beyond CRM. Finally, we break down the surge in startup M&A activity, with billion-dollar deals from OpenAI, DoorDash, and others—hinting at a major Q2 rebound. Don’t miss Jason’s insights on what these trends mean for founders and investors.
(0:00) Episode Teaser
(1:36) Jason’s in SINGAPORE
(3:14) The Power of Shame and why we need “Ozempic for screentime”
(10:15) OpenPhone - Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/twist
(12:38) Google’s latest AI breakthrough: Stitch
(20:13) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech
(21:20) The NBA on Polymarket and what founders can learn from the Knicks
(27:08) Why did Salesforce buy Informatica?
(30:03) Pilot - Visit https://www.pilot.com/twist and get $1,200 off your first year.
(32:42) M&A activity continues, and Jason’s spicy Q2 predictions
(40:57) Did tech go woke or was it just performative the whole time?
(45:22) Circle, stablecoins, and the perks of being pro-business
(51:27) What Trump’s “golden share” of US Steel might look like
(54:15) Why Jason is bullish on Joby
(57:28) Episode wrap-up and upcoming events
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Links from episode:
ClearSpace App: https://www.getclearspace.com/
Google Stitch: https://stitch.withgoogle.com/
Joby: https://www.jobyaviation.com/
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:15) OpenPhone - Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/twist
(20:13) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech
(30:03) Pilot - Visit https://www.pilot.com/twist and get $1,200 off your first year.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Trump takes aim at Apple with a potential 25% iPhone tariff, Anthropic releases two powerful new Claude models claiming top performance in coding tasks, and two founders go head-to-head in the final round of Founder Fridays. In this packed episode, Jason, Alex, and Lon unpack what Trump’s latest trade threat really means, why Anthropic’s AI progress could reshape the dev landscape, and which startup—an AI ad network or industrial automation platform—comes out on top. A fast-paced look at the volatility, breakthroughs, and ambition defining today’s startup ecosystem.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Episode Teaser(3:41) MORE tariffs, this time on Apple… is this just a message to Tim Cook?(7:08) Potential impact of tariffs on Apple(10:09) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!(14:14) Anthropic’s new models are topping the LLM charts but are they REALLY self-aware(20:07) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups(24:35) Who should buy OnlyFans? Jason, Alex, and Lon each have ideas(30:03) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist(35:10) Gut health is important but do we need SMART toilets?(40:34) Which TWiST 500 companies are blowing up on secondary markets?(47:27) The Founder Friday city competition FINAL ROUND: see which startup wins!
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Links from episode:
Throne One: https://www.thronescience.com/product?
Arcana: https://arcana.ad/
TACTUN: https://tactun.com/
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:09) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
(20:07) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(30:03) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
In this episode, Jason chats with David Friedberg—CEO of Ohalo Genetics and co-host of the All-In Podcast—about how AI is transforming agriculture and startups. David introduces Ohalo’s "Boosted Breeding" technology, which enables plants to inherit 100% of genes from both parents, potentially doubling crop yields. They also discuss building AI-first companies, genome language models, and the future of creativity in an AI-driven world.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) David Friedberg joins Jason to discuss AI Basics.
(1:44) How AI leveled up hiring and operations at startups
(5:46) AI and economic opportunities, complex problem-solving, and leadership's role
(11:48) How to build an AI-first company culture
(16:48) AI's transformative impact on biology and DNA sequencing
(21:36) The “GLM” - GPT for DNA Is already in production
(23:17) Biology meets AI: designing perfect plants with CRISPR and genome models
(32:08) Is the “Age of Abundance” around the corner?
(35:56) Democratization of creativity through AI: personalized Star Wars musicals & the future of media
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Uncover more valuable insights from AI leaders in Google Cloud's 'Future of AI: Perspectives for Startups' report. Discover what 23 AI industry leaders think about the future of AI—and how it impacts your business. Read their perspectives here: https://goo.gle/futureofai
*
Check out all of the Startup Basics episodes here: https://thisweekinstartups.com/basics
Check out Google Cloud: https://cloud.google.com/
Check out Ohalo: https://www.ohalo.com/
*
Follow David:
X: https://x.com/friedberg
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidfriedberg/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
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Follow TWiST:
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Today’s show: Jason and Alex dicsuss Jony Ive's $6.5B deal with OpenAI and what it means for the future of AI hardware, Tesla’s push into robotaxis vs. Waymo’s 10M paid rides, and Microsoft’s latest move partnering with xAI. We dive into the GENIUS Act and what it means for stablecoin regulation, explore practical, gritty tactics for launching and scaling a marketplace from scratch, and debate the ethics of AI-powered smart glasses and always-on recording. Plus, Jason reflects on the legacy of Scott Adams and the power of systems thinking.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Episode Teaser(2:00) A broadcaster-to-broadcaster moment for Scott Adams(5:18) OpenAI teams with Jony Ive, and why wearables are banned from the J-Ranch(10:16) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist(16:11) From Partnership to Purchase: The M&A Story(20:09) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(25:42) Robotaxis EVERYWHERE, and thoughts on the continuing self-driving car rollout(30:12) Brex. Get the business account trusted by 1 in 3 US startups at https://www.brex.com/banking-solutions(34:41) Should we trust stablecoins now? And who is actually monitoring this?(42:54) Polymarkets: Checking in with some of our favorite market(49:58) REDDIT QUESTION: How do I build a marketplace?(58:53) Customer feedback's role in product iteration(58:55) Every piece of SaaS advice EVER
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Links from episode:
Polymarket: https://polymarket.com/
Polymarket for AI Leaderes: https://polymarket.com/event/which-company-has-best-ai-model-on-june-30
LMArena: https://www.lmarena.ai
Real Coffee with Scott Adams: https://www.youtube.com/RealCoffeeWithScottAdams
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:16) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(20:09) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(30:12) Brex. Get the business account trusted by 1 in 3 US startups at https://www.brex.com/banking-solutions
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Jason and Lon explore the wild edges of tech innovation and regulation — from a student-built acoustic weapon that takes down drones (without harming humans) to the legal gray areas of drone defense over private property. They also unpack the escalating espionage drama between Rippling and Deel, and dive into FireCrawl’s viral move to hire AI agents as employees. Plus, a deep look at how world-class design and systems thinking can set startups apart. Packed with insights, laughs, and cutting-edge ideas across defense tech, AI, and startup strategy.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Episode Teaser(1:39) Intro and Jason and Lon share their love of Andor(6:52) How to spot "World Class Design" and why it matters(10:27) NetSuite - Download the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine Learning for free at https://www.netsuite.com/twist(15:50) Athena, Hillstone, and creating the right system(20:00) Northwest Registered Agent - Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!(23:21) So... corporate espionage is BAD? is what you're saying?(30:14) Gemini Canvas - It uses AI to help you write, code, and create in one interactive space. Try it at gemini.google.com/canvas.(32:11) Why Firecrawl is hiring AI agents for staff positions(38:28) Bluesky might not be falling after all?(44:39) How Prandtl Dynamics is shooting drones out of the sky
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Links from episode:
Prandtl: https://prandtldynamics.com/
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:27) NetSuite - Download the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine Learning for free at https://www.netsuite.com/twist
(20:00) Northwest Registered Agent - Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
(30:14) Gemini Canvas - It uses AI to help you write, code, and create in one interactive space. Try it at gemini.google.com/canvas.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Microsoft lays off 6,000 employees despite record profits, signaling a ruthless new phase in big tech. Jason, Lon, and Alex discuss what it means for the talent market, why tightening U.S. immigration could cripple startup innovation, and whether AI startup Windsurf is selling too early as OpenAI circles. Plus, Klarna’s AI customer service backfires, IPO momentum returns, and Office Hours with airfive founder Jeremy Redman pitches a bold new prepaid SaaS model.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Episode Teaser(2:40) Why ex-Microsoft staffers are talking smack on Blind(10:08) Atlassian - Head to https://www.atlassian.com/startups/twist to see if you qualify for 50 free seats for 12 months.(15:58) Checking out ElevenLabs’ wild new AI soundboard(20:28) Fidelity Private Shares℠ - Visit https://fidelityprivateshares.com! Mention our podcast and receive 20% off your first-year paid subscription.(24:02) What is Bottom Up TAM and why it isn’t dirty like it sounds(30:10) Google Gemini - It uses AI to help you write, code, and create in one interactive space. Try it at gemini.google.com/canvas.(33:52) Cohere missed revenue estimates but things aren’t THAT bleak!(37:01) Why America NEEDS highly skilled immigrants(43:12) Working the “I Have a Secret” strategy with Jeremy from Airfive
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Links from episode:
EleveLabs Sound Board: https://elevenlabs.io/sound-effects/soundboardLikable: https://likeable.co/airfive: https://airfive.com/
Follow Jeremy:X: https://x.com/thejeremyredmanLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejeremyredman/
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:08) Atlassian - Head to https://www.atlassian.com/startups/twist to see if you qualify for 50 free seats for 12 months.
(20:28) Fidelity Private Shares℠ - Visit https://fidelityprivateshares.com! Mention our podcast and receive 20% off your first-year paid subscription.
(30:10) Google Gemini - It uses AI to help you write, code, and create in one interactive space. Try it at gemini.google.com/canvas.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Chime is finally going public with strong financials and a shot at matching its $25B 2021 valuation, signaling real momentum in the IPO market. Databricks just made a $1B bet on agentic AI by acquiring Neon, a Postgres-as-a-service startup riding the new database wave. Then, Dave Rubin joins to share how he built and sold Locals, his uncancellable creator platform, all while navigating the intense media landscape.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Episode Teaser(1:14) Jason and Alex open the show(1:42) Why Chime’s IPO is such a promising sign(7:22) Chime's financials and valuation(10:12) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(12:17) So why did Databricks buy Neon?(13:22) Where is the AI Integration Desktop App?(17:29) Jason’s plan to bring Americans back to the movies(20:10) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!(21:58) Make movies All-you-can-eat!(26:26) Special Guest: Dave Rubin(30:39) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist(31:41) Why Dave Rubin goes phone free for weeks at a time(45:24) Why Identity politics is killing business and sports(49:23) Can Locals reinvent subscription models?
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Links from episode:
Rubin Report on Locals: https://rubinreport.locals.com/
Follow Dave:
X: https://x.com/RubinReport
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJdKr0Bgd_5saZYqLCa9mng
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:12) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(20:10) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
(30:39) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Alex interviews founders from two frontier technologies reshaping our world. First, ZioSec is tackling the cybersecurity risks of AI agents with continuous adversarial testing before real attacks happen. Then, Terabase shows how mobile robotic factories are transforming solar energy deployment, assembling massive solar farms directly in the desert. With AI scaling across enterprises and clean energy demand surging, these startups are building critical infrastructure for our future.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction to the episode(0:53) Show Kickoff with Alex(1:15) ZioSec is Putting Agentic AI in Charge of Cybersecurity(9:41) Pilot - Visit https://www.pilot.com/twist and get $1,200 off your first year.(11:07)How Complex is ZioZec’s Testing?(19:48) Superpower - The best founders know: better health = better business. Visit http://superpower.com/twist to skip the waitlist.(21:01) ZioSec’s Vision for the Future(26:55) Terabase Wants to Transform How Solar is Built(30:00) Hubspot for Startups - Visit hubspot.com/startups and join the founders who are turning growth challenges into opportunities.(31:30) Is Solar Our AI Power Problem Savior?
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Links from episode:
Check out ZioSec: https://ziosec.com/
Check out Terabase: http://www.terabase.energy
Follow Aaron:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-walls/
X: https://x.com/aaron0walls
Follow Andruis:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/auseckas/
Follow Terabase:X: https://x.com/terabaseenergy?lang=en
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(9:41) Pilot - Visit https://www.pilot.com/twist and get $1,200 off your first year.
(19:48) Superpower - The best founders know: better health = better business. Visit http://superpower.com/twist to skip the waitlist.
(30:00) Hubspot for Startups - Visit hubspot.com/startups and join the founders who are turning growth challenges into opportunities.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Jason, Lon & Alex are back with a spicy Monday episode of This Week in Startups. Jason goes off on unions vs capitalism, we dig into why fewer seed startups are making it to Series A, and look at OpenAI’s quiet copyright land grab. Plus: YC says Google should be broken up (then kind of walks it back), Perplexity’s wild $14B valuation, and Saudi Arabia wants its own national AI. We wrap with an Office Hours chat with Kevin Bondzio from Streamfog on the future of AR ads in livestreaming.
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Timestamps:
(2:38) Why Jason’s obsessed with Reddit’s anti-work community
(10:30) Coda - Get started for free at https://coda.io/twist
(12:21) Seed Stage Graduation rates
(20:43) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
(26:11) What’s going on with Tech M&A?
(30:04) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(33:50) What’s going on with the Copyright Office?
(37:24) Licensing and competitive advantage in the AI era
(48:28) AI and the future of subscription-based content(56:42) StreamFog wants to change the way creators advertise
(1:14:13) Perplexity’s mega-valuation gets even mega-er
(1:19:13) How Saudi Arabia just became an AI startup
(1:22:05) Y Combinator pokes it’s nose in the Google antitrust case
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Links from episode:
Check out Streamfog: https://streamfog.com/
Check out Peter Walkers post on “Graduating from Seed to Series A” https://x.com/PeterJ_Walker/status/1921288778192200087
Learn about the HUMAIN here: https://www.spa.gov.sa/en/N2316474
*
Follow Kev:
X: https://x.com/kevbondzio
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-bondzio/
*
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:30) Coda - Get started for free at https://coda.io/twist
(20:43) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
(30:04) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Jason, Alex, and Lon break down OpenAI’s latest power move: hiring Instacart CEO Fidji Simo to lead its consumer apps. They also dive into the ethical storm brewing around an AI-generated victim statement used in court — is this the future of legal testimony? Plus, they explore how late-stage funding rounds like a “Series G” don’t automatically spell trouble anymore, and what The Checklist Manifesto can teach startup founders. Stick around for another Office Hours, where WhereToWheel gets a shot at the spotlight.
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Timestamps:
(0:00) We kick off the show!
(2:28) Intro: It's all about having a system...
(8:52) Wait, OpenAI STOLE Instacart's CEO?
(10:00) Brex. Get the business account trusted by 1 in 3 US startups at https://www.brex.com/banking-solutions
(18:03) Why Adam Curry is the Podfather
(20:08) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
(22:53) Would you want to be represented in court by an AI Avatar?
(30:44) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(35:38) What the heck is "Minor M&A"?
(48:10) When are we all getting humanoid robots?
(53:30) Where2Wheel wants to help you off-road
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Links from episode:
Check out Wheel2Wheel: https://dev.where2wheel.com/
*
Follow Where2Wheel:
X: https://x.com/Where2Wheel
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/where2wheel-llc/
*
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:00) Brex. Get the business account trusted by 1 in 3 US startups at https://www.brex.com/banking-solutions
(20:08) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
(30:44) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Jason, Lon & Alex discuss the day’s hottest tech and startup news. Zoox’s robotaxi crash and voluntary recall, COATUE’s innovative open-ended venture fund that could democratize private tech investing, the NSO Group's massive $167M fine for spyware abuse, Uber’s record-setting earnings and in-person work push, and a candid AI wake-up call from Fiverr’s CEO urging employees to embrace automation or fall behind. From regulatory shakeups to funding innovation and the rise of AI productivity, this episode captures the chaos and opportunity of tech in 2025.
Timestamps:
(1:09) Show Intro
(2:43) Will Coatue's new low buy-in fund replace or supplement traditional VC investments?
(9:55) OpenPhone - Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/twist
(13:38) Zoox issues recall: why this might be the best case scenario for self-driving cars.
(20:18) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(22:39) Meta wins settlement against NSO: do spyware companies even need to exist?
(25:45) Uber bests expectations in Q1! Why their future is looking bright.
(29:48) Notion - Try it for free today at https://notion.com/twist
(33:10) How scared should we be of AI replacing us? Fiverr's CEO says VERY.
(40:57) In Office Hours, Evan from FusionAds wants to know: how to make clients feel more confident in with AI-generated marketing?
(50:03) The Founder Friday Tournament's Final Four is now... a FINAL FIVE?!
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Links from episode:
Do Things That Don’t Scale: https://paulgraham.com/ds.html
FusionAds: https://www.fusionos.ai/ai-generative-advertising
Follow Evan:X: https://x.com/EG_Fusion
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evangraj/
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(9:55) OpenPhone - Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.co
(20:18) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(29:48) Notion - Try it for free today at https://notion.com/twist
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Cursor’s explosive growth, hitting $200M in ARR and a massive $9B valuation. They also explore the buzz around Magical Toys’ new AI-powered dinosaur, where LLMs meet playtime. The conversation turns to “vibe coding” and how AI dev tools are changing the way product teams build. Plus, Jason shares stories from his Formula 1 poker table, Uber’s latest autonomous vehicle partnerships get analyzed, and we bring you highlights from our Founder Fridays pitch showdown, featuring Kippy from Sydney and MomSub from Chicago. Stick around to hear how Cloud Neuro is tackling SaaS sprawl.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show!
(3:52) Rise in popularity of F1 and Netflix's impact
(10:23) Uber stock, partnerships, and self-driving technology
(10:47) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
today!
(13:50) Aurora Innovation's SPAC and Cursor's valuation discussion
(19:07) Revenue quality concerns for startups
(20:17) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(21:37) User engagement versus churn in startups
(23:06) AnySphere's ARR and impact of faster development on tech
(30:29) Fidelity Private Shares℠ - Visit https://www.fidelityprivateshares.com! Mention our podcast and receive 20% off your first-year paid subscription.
(32:11) Anker's portable solar solutions and off-grid living innovations
(37:41) Jason's investment insights on Warner Brothers and Disney
(38:27) Skype's decline and the rise of Zoom and Microsoft Teams
(42:04) Founder Friday bracket final matchup and pitches
(51:08) Interview with Fateen Anam Raffid from Magical Toys
(59:24) Dino AI toy demonstration and future plans
(1:04:20) Interview on CloudNuro's SaaS spend management
(1:10:01) SaaS compliance, vendor-customer relationships, and AI spend management
(1:16:09) CloudNuro's data-driven foundation and AI governance
(1:18:46) Company growth, competitive landscape, and Chicago's entrepreneurial ecosystem*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Links from episode:
Magical Toys: https://www.magicaltoys.com
CloudNuro: https://www.cloudnuro.ai/
*
Follow Fateen:
X: https://x.com/Fateen_Anam
*
Follow Shyam:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shyam-kumar-7b18524/:*
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:47) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
today!
(20:17) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(30:29) Fidelity Private Shares℠ - Visit https://www.fidelityprivateshares.com/ Mention our podcast and receive 20% off your first-year paid subscription.
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Jason, Lon, and Alex break down a loaded week in tech: Apple’s 27% App Store “link-out” fee gets shut down by a judge—unlocking margin for startups and slashing CAC; AI bots on Reddit’s r/ChangeMyView are now 6x more effective than humans at changing minds, signaling a seismic shift in online discourse; and Beehiiv CEO Tyler Denk joins to discuss building in public, rapid product iteration, and the irony of being critiqued like a market leader for innovating too fast. The big takeaway? AI is evolving fast, gatekeepers are falling, and founders who build through chaos are best positioned to win.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Episode Teaser(1:20) Introduction and venture capital power law(4:14) Economic data and labor market trends(8:19) Mimicking trades and Dub's Series A funding
(10:05) Kyte - TWIST Listeners: Go to https://kyte.com/ and download the Kyte app today. Use code JASON to save 10% on your first rental.(14:48) Apple App Store ruling and startup implications
(19:44) Atlassian - Head to https://www.atlassian.com/startups/twist to see if you qualify for 50 free seats for 12 months.(21:44) App store fees and antitrust concerns(27:34) Fivetran's acquisition and Lena Khan's impact on VC(29:58) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups(32:02) Venture capital scenarios and M&A future(37:23) Jason’s Starbucks tweet and union perspectives(45:02) Reddit's AI experiment and online discourse(48:16) Interview with Tyler Denk from Beehiiv(49:52) Beehiiv overview and customer base(51:02) Beehiiv's revenue strategy and Boost feature(57:06) Balancing revenue streams and feature quality(1:04:30) MRR growth and founder transparency(1:08:05) Brand marketing impact and staying focused(1:11:44) Hiring challenges and platform comparisons(1:14:01) Twist 500 initiative update
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Links from episode:
Beehiiv: https://www.beehiiv.com/
Follow Tyler:X: https://x.com/denk_tweets
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:05) Kyte - TWIST Listeners: Go to https://kyte.com/ and download the Kyte app today. Use code JASON to save 10% on your first rental.
(19:44) Atlassian - Head to https://www.atlassian.com/startups/twist to see if you qualify for 50 free seats for 12 months.
(29:58) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
In this episode of AI Basics, Jason sits down with Amin Vahdat, VP of ML at Google Cloud, to unpack the mind-blowing infrastructure behind modern AI. They dive into how Google’s TPUs power massive queries, why 2025 is the “Year of Inference,” and how startups can now build what once felt impossible. From real-time agents to exponential speed gains, this is a look inside the AI engine that’s rewriting the future.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason introduces today’s guest Amin Vahdat
(3:18) Data movement implications for founders and historical bandwidth perspective
(5:29) The shift to inference and AI infrastructure trends in startups and enterprises
(8:40) Evolution of productivity and potential of low-code/no-code development
(11:20) AI infrastructure pricing, cost efficiency, and historical innovation
(17:53) Google's TPU technology and infrastructure scale
(23:21) Building AI agents for startup evaluation and supervised associate agents
(26:08) Documenting decisions for AI learning and early AI agent development
*
Uncover more valuable insights from AI leaders in Google Cloud's 'Future of AI: Perspectives for Startups' report. Discover what 23 AI industry leaders think about the future of AI—and how it impacts your business. Read their perspectives here: https://goo.gle/futureofai
*
Check out all of the Startup Basics episodes here: https://thisweekinstartups.com/basics
Check out Google Cloud: https://cloud.google.com/
*
Follow Amin:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vahdat/?trk=public_post_feed-actor-name
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Today’s show: Jason, Alex, Lon and Special Guest Mark Jeffrey of Hash Rate, cover the explosive rise of Bittensor, a decentralized AI compute network some are calling the “third great coin” after Bitcoin and Ethereum, explore Meta’s bold move to host its open-source LLaMA models via partnerships with Groq and Cerebras—potentially setting the stage for a future AWS competitor—and unpack shocking revelations from the Wall Street Journal about Meta AI chatbots engaging in inappropriate conversations with underage users. Plus, we explore how AI is now writing up to 30% of code at major tech firms like Google and Microsoft, signaling a radical shift in how software gets built.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Episode Teaser(1:28) Introduction to the episode and guests(2:31) Mark Jeffrey's involvement in crypto and Bittensor project(5:06) Bitcoin vs. Bittensor: Stability and efficiency(10:20) Hubspot for Startups - Visit hubspot.com/startups and join the founders who are turning growth challenges into opportunities.(15:16) Governance, staking, and starting a subnet in Bittensor(17:52) Exploring Ready.AI and its impact on the future of AI(20:08) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(27:17) Trump's influence on crypto regulations and the stablecoin act(30:03) Oracle - Try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist(38:42) AI-driven VC outreach and Alexis Ohanian's advice on cold emailing(45:03) Introducing LayerNext with CEO Buddhika Madduma and customer onboarding challenges(49:04) Ikigai for startups and balancing bespoke work with scalable product development(55:38) Strategies for securing lighthouse customers and the 'bear hug' approach(56:43) Reddit rapid response: Debating the return to office for young professionals(1:04:05) Closing remarks and guest plugs
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Links from episode:
Hash Rate Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@markjeffrey
LayerNext: https://www.layernext.ai/
r/antiwork: https://www.reddit.com/r/antiwork/
Follow Mark:
X: https://x.com/markjeffrey
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markjeffrey/
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:20) Hubspot for Startups - Visit hubspot.com/startups and join the founders who are turning growth challenges into opportunities.
(20:08) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(30:03) Oracle - Try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: we break down the wild story behind Meta’s AI chatbots going completely off the rails — including a bombshell WSJ exposé about bots flirting with minors. Then they cover Palo Alto Networks’ huge $500M+ acquisition of Protect AI, and sit down with the founder of Formulate, who’s building a robotic kitchen for chemicals and cosmetics. Plus, we get into some spicy takes on the secret group chats shaping tech behind the scenes, whether AI can clean up bad code faster than humans, and a Founder Fridays Texas showdown between Osprey and Wispr.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show.
(1:45) Jason’s recent trip to Detroit.
(7:47) The influence of group chats on tech, politics, and Trumpism
(10:54) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
(19:48) The importance of proactive communication in media
(20:04) Fidelity Private Shares℠ - Visit https://www.fidelityprivateshares.com! Mention our podcast and receive 20% off your first-year paid subscription.
(21:44) Palo Alto Networks acquires Protect AI
(28:57) ARX Robotics and the future of autonomous military platforms
(29:31) Pilot - Visit https://www.pilot.com/twist and get $1,200 off your first year.
(35:27) Sentra's $50M Series B in data security posture management
(42:16) Lightrun's $70M Series B and venture capital trends
(51:28) Meta's AI chatbots, ethical concerns, and Founder Friday competition
(1:05:19) Formulate interview with Osmaan Shah
(1:11:52) Scaling microfactories and the benefits of Formulate's platform
(1:21:10) Business model and future of robotics in manufacturing
(1:24:38) Potential applications in food and agriculture for Formulate Robotics
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Links from episode:
Check out Formulate Robotics: https://www.linkedin.com/company/formulaterobotics/posts/?feedView=all
Check out Protect AI: https://protectai.com/
Check out Lightrun: https://lightrun.com/
Check out Sentra: https://www.sentra.io/
Check out the WSK article on Meta’s “Digital Companions”: https://www.wsj.com/tech/ai/meta-ai-chatbots-sex-a25311bf?st=6jzH4S&reflink=desktopwebshare_permalink
Check out ARX Robotics: https://www.arx-robotics.com/
*
Follow Osmaan:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/osmaanshah/
X: https://x.com/osmaanshah
*
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:54) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
(20:04) Fidelity Private Shares℠ - Visit https://www.fidelityprivateshares.com! Mention our podcast and receive 20% off your first-year paid subscription.
(29:31) Pilot - Visit https://www.pilot.com/twist and get $1,200 off your first year.
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Jason, Alex, and Lon break down today’s top tech and startup stories — from Slate Auto’s customizable $25K EV truck to Discord’s major leadership shakeup ahead of a potential IPO. They also cover Uber’s self-driving push with Volkswagen, Perplexity AI’s aggressive growth moves, and why value-driven products are winning in a tough economy. Plus, Alex sits down with Tailscale CEO Avery Pennarun to unpack how they grew from 5K to 10K customers — and why fixing internet networking could spark the next huge wave of innovation.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason, Lon and Alex kick off the show!
(3:26) Introduction and features of Bezos-backed EV truck company, Slate
(7:55) Market impact and value proposition of Slate's EV trucks
(9:48) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(14:04) EV features and market potential discussion
(17:42) Discord CEO steps down and IPO prospects
(20:19) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(24:00) Uber and Volkswagen's self-driving car partnership
(28:39) Superpower - The best founders know: better health = better business. Visit http://superpower.com/twist to skip the waitlist.
(30:00) Pace of self-driving car adoption and regulation
(37:20) Butterfly Effect secures Benchmark investment
(38:37) Perplexity and Motorola Razr partnership
(43:12) Jason's experience with Light Phone
(45:39) New York Times and Ziff Davis lawsuits against OpenAI
(50:09) Nonprofit structures and OpenAI's mission issues
(54:01) Founder Friday: Pitchfire and TACTUN's two-year plans
(1:02:28) Introduction to Tailscale and Avery Pennarun
(1:10:17) Tailscale's enterprise adoption
(1:21:13) Current Internet networking issues*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Links from episode:
Check out Tailscale: https://tailscale.com/
Check out Slate vehicles: https://www.slate.auto/en
Check out Not For Private Gain:https://notforprivategain.org/
Check out the Light Phone: https://www.thelightphone.com/
Check out Oregon lawmakers article: ****https://www.oregonlive.com/politics/2025/04/oregon-lawmakers-to-decide-whether-big-tech-should-pay-to-support-local-journalism.html
Check out Manus: https://manus.im/
*
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:48) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups(20:19) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist(28:39) Superpower - The best founders know: better health = better business. Visit http://superpower.com/twist to skip the waitlist.
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Jason, Alex and Lon unpack the FTC’s lawsuit against Uber and what it could mean for subscription UX, break down how AI startup Cursor is growing faster than almost any SaaS company in history, and discuss how dark patterns, consumer trust, and regulatory scrutiny are reshaping product design. They also touch on the future of big tech breakups, share insights from founder Office Hours with GoShare CEO Shaun Savage, highlighting the power of focus, capital, and customer obsession for startups navigating turbulent markets.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Episode Tease(1:21) Jason talks about personal interests, frugality, and TWIST live tour(7:29) Nick Huber's tweet on tariffs and business impact(9:58) NetSuite - Download the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine Learning for free at https://www.netsuite.com/twist(11:22) Market uncertainty and paused deals(13:57) Trump's market feedback and tariffs(16:29) Cursor's rapid revenue growth(19:44) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://gusto.com/twist(21:16) Valuation discussion continuation and FTC sues Uber(29:58) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist(31:26) FTC dark patterns and consumer protection(33:23) Founder Friday bracket competition: LifeStack vs MedSimple(43:50) Introduction to GoShare and founder Shaun Savage(45:57) Regulatory challenges in the gig economy and supply chain resilience(57:37) Diversification strategies for GoShare's delivery professionals(1:00:23) Benefits of office hours and brainstorming with portfolio companies(1:01:26) Founder University and Launch Accelerator updates
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Links from episode:
GoShare: https://goshare.co/
Founder University: https://www.founder.university/
Follow Shaun:
X: https://x.com/ShaunSavage19
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaunsavage/
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(9:58) NetSuite - Download the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine Learning for free at https://www.netsuite.com/twist
(19:44) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://gusto.com/twist
(29:58) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Jason and Lon break down the biggest stories in tech and startups this week: OpenAI’s new models are powerful but glitchy, Meta’s internal docs hint that Zuck knows the Facebook friends graph is toast, and fintech startup TapCheck might actually be doing some good. Plus, robot lifeguards and humanoid races — the wildest videos of the week and what they mean. Then, Alex sits down with Jason Reminick, founder of Thalamus, the platform that helps match medical residents to hospitals (with 85% market share!). They talk about becoming a Public Benefit Corp and how Thalamus is tackling the doctor shortage in the U.S.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show(1:43) OpenAI's new models and issues with Wikipedia as AI knowledge bases
(8:27) FTC antitrust case around Meta; breaking up big tech
(11:13) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(13:04) Tapcheck's impact on employee retention and minimum wage variations
(19:56) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!(24:31) New company Revel's safety software
(27:14) Humanoid robot marathon in Beijing
(30:15) Brex. Get the business account trusted by 1 in 3 US startups at https://brex.com/banking-solutions
(35:46) New color discovery “Olo”
(40:30) Blue Sky is Falling: Robots, delivery, surveillance, and privacy concerns(55:20) Alex sits down with Jason Reminick of Thalamus
(56:01) Thalamus and the medical residency application process
(59:42) AI in residency applications and standardizing medical school grades
(1:03:30) Thalamus' market share and collaboration with medical associations
(1:10:08) Impact of budget cuts on rural hospitals and business model expansion
*
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*
Links from episode:
Check out Thalamus: https://www.thalamusgme.com/
Check out the Robot Lifeguard: https://oceanalpha.com/product-item/dolphin1/
Check out TapCheck: https://www.tapcheck.com/
*
Follow: Jason Reminick
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-reminick-md-mba-ms-bb251645/
Thalamus on X: https://x.com/ThalamusGME/status/1757812695787581485*
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(11:13) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(19:56) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
(30:15) Brex. Get the business account trusted by 1 in 3 US startups at https://brex.com/banking-solutions
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Jason, Alex, and Lon discuss the rise of LMArena as it spins out into a full-fledged startup, what that means for AI benchmarking, and how it could monetize its growing community. They also dive into the emerging value of application-layer AI startups and why OpenAI’s acquisition spree is just beginning. Plus, branding expert Scott Bair drops tactical design tips for founders—from logos to product UX—that can give your startup the edge.
Timestamps:
(0:00) AI companies and value accrual in the AI rush(1:29) Productivity in remote work(5:12) Overview of LM Arena as a startup(7:22) Business models for AI and benchmarking(10:05) Fidelity Private Shares℠ - Visit https://fidelityprivateshares.com! Mention our podcast and receive 20% off your first-year paid subscription.(14:16) Milestone-based investing and early-stage funding(16:34) OpenAI's acquisition moves and AI market dynamics(20:12) OpenPhone - Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist(21:15) Intangible value and strategic acquisitions in AI(24:30) High valuations and consumer AI pricing models(26:00) The rise of drone startups and autonomous weapon systems(29:46) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!(32:00) Venture interest in drones and geopolitical considerations(32:30) Branding, design, and founder questions(43:51) Brand mission and work environment culture(47:10) Savage my startup and live clinic(49:30) Logo design and color theory(56:29) Designing great websites and apps(59:29) Founder University website review(1:00:49) Closing remarks and social media plugs
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Check out:
Lunour: https://www.lunour.com/
Founder Fridays: https://www.founderfridays.tech/
Founder University: https://www.founder.university/
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:05) Fidelity Private Shares℠ - Visit https://fidelityprivateshares.com! Mention our podcast and receive 20% off your first-year paid subscription.
(20:12) OpenPhone - Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at https://www.openpjhone.com/twist
(29:46) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
In this episode of AI Basics, Jason sits down with CapitalG partner Jill Chase to break down how AI is reshaping the startup ecosystem — from founders to investors to incumbents. They cover how CapitalG (Alphabet’s independent growth fund) thinks about the AI stack, why speed alone isn’t enough for startups today, and how to build durable advantages in a world where anyone can copy your product. Jill shares insights from portfolio companies like Motif (next-gen CAD for architecture) and Abridge (AI-powered doctor’s scribe), plus how startups can use AI “in the business” (product) and “on the business” (ops, GTM, etc). They also explore the transition from copilots to agents — and what that means for the next wave of software. If you’re building or investing in AI, this is a must-watch.
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Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(1:10) CapitalG's investment strategy in AI
(3:04) Understanding value in AI investments
(5:16) Durability in AI startups and market challenges
(10:18) Practical applications of AI in business
(17:52) Case studies of successful AI startups
(21:35) Building massive businesses with small teams
(23:55) Evolution from AI copilots to autonomous agents
*
Uncover more valuable insights from AI leaders in Google Cloud's 'Future of AI: Perspectives for Startups' report. Discover what 23 AI industry leaders think about the future of AI—and how it impacts your business. Read their perspectives here: https://goo.gle/futureofai
*
Check out all of the Startup Basics episodes here: https://thisweekinstartups.com/basics
Check out Google Cloud: https://cloud.google.com/
Check out CapitalG: https://www.capitalg.com/
*
Follow Jill:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jill-greenberg-chase-53747538/
X: https://x.com/jillchase124
*
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X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Today’s show: Jason, Alex, and Lon discuss Figma’s surprise IPO filing following its $1B breakup from Adobe, OpenAI’s quiet push into social networking through a Sora image-sharing feed, and how sweeping new China tariffs are wreaking havoc on ecommerce companies—impacting jobs, supply chains, and pricing. Plus: the Substack vs. Patreon battle heats up, Lyft expands internationally, and we talk to the founders of Nerd Crawler and Cuts Clothing about how policy decisions ripple through startup land. A packed show with insights founders can’t afford to miss.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Tariffs impact on ecommerce and CPG(2:22) Figma files to go public and Adobe's billion-dollar breakup fee(6:48) IPO market, competition, and Hammerspace's $100 million raise
(9:34) Pilot - Visit https://www.pilot.com/twist and get $1,200 off your first year.(11:32) Patreon's new streaming feature and Substack's growth(19:08) Jason's experience with Patreon and Substack apps(19:33) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist(25:58) OpenAI's new social network and Temu’s Google Shopping ads shutdown(29:24) Notion - Try it for free today at https://notion.com/twist(37:11) Nerdcrawler's business model and comic book industry economics(42:33) Marketplaces, scaling challenges, and tariff policy impact on startups(47:29) Steven Borrelli's viral tweet on tariffs and administration response(50:26) Effects of tariffs on costs, supply chain, and American manufacturing(57:56) Infrastructure, investment for US production, and potential layoffs(1:02:34) Closing remarks, endorsements, and quality of Cuts clothing(1:04:25) Addressing misconceptions about Asian manufacturing(1:05:00) OpenAI acquisition of Codium and market impact of tariff fears(1:05:52) Critique of tariff policy communication and domestic job creation discussion
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Check out:
Nerd Crawler: https://nerdcrawler.com
Cuts: https://www.cutsclothing.com/
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(9:34) Pilot - Visit https://www.pilot.com/twist and get $1,200 off your first year.
(19:33) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
(29:24) Notion - Try it for free today at https://notion.com/twist
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Alex interviews founders from Abacus and Synthesia—two companies leading the charge in vertical AI. Abacus is deploying on-prem LLMs to banks and insurers with a focus on data control, accuracy, and integration with legacy infrastructure. Synthesia just hit $100M ARR by helping 70% of the Fortune 100 turn internal documents into scalable AI video. If you're interested in how generative AI is moving from hype to real enterprise utility, this one's for you.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction to vertical AI with Abacus and Synthesia(1:57) Real-world applications of AI in regulated industries & Interview with Abacus founder David Moscatelli(5:02) Unique challenges for banks and credit unions using AI & Abacus OS private LLM(9:56) Atlassian - Head to https://www.atlassian.com/startups/twist to see if you qualify for 50 free seats for 12 months.(11:57) Abacus features, benefits, and customer acquisition strategies(12:27) Decentralized indexer, data integration, and voice AI technology with VAPI(19:58) Vapi - Go to vapi.ai/twist and get 1000 minutes free per month - for life.(24:47) On-premise setup, combating AI hallucinations, and trust in AI responses(30:08) Hubspot for Startups - Visit hubspot.com/startups and join the founders who are turning growth challenges into opportunities.(33:40) Abacus company growth, fundraising, and sales hiring(38:25) Introduction to Synthesia CEO Victor Riparbelli, AI avatars, and building a startup in Europe(41:34) Synthesia’s market positioning, target use cases, and personalized avatars(46:33) Synthesia's training data, partnerships, and improvements in AI avatar technology(55:57) Synthesia’s growth, Fortune 100 companies usage, and financial aspects(1:00:21) AI model competition, market appetite, and enterprise focus(1:02:09) Future of AI in video creation, ethicalconsiderations, and Synthesia's plans
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
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Check out:
Abacus: https://www.goabacus.co/
Synthesia: https://www.synthesia.io/
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(9:56) Atlassian - Head to https://www.atlassian.com/startups/twist to see if you qualify for 50 free seats for 12 months.
(19:58) Vapi - Go to vapi.ai/twist and get 1000 minutes free per month - for life.
(30:08) Hubspot for Startups - Visit hubspot.com/startups and join the founders who are turning growth challenges into opportunities.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: In this episode, Jason, Alex, and Lon dive into Blue Origin’s all-female celeb spaceflight (yes, Katy Perry sang on reentry), Hugging Face’s unexpected move into robotics, and Jack Dorsey’s wild take that we should “delete all IP law.” Plus, they break down Figure AI’s eye-popping $39B valuation, the risks of SPVs, and what founders and investors can learn from the SPAC boom. As Jason puts it: “You just have to assume an 80% failure rate.”
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Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show!
(1:34) Blue Origin all-female crew launch and space tourism
(7:17) Emerging technologies and tech adoption trends
(10:07) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
(12:38) Hugging Face acquires Pollen Robotics; Open AI and robotics debate
(19:42) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(20:42) Significance of Hugging Face in generative AI; Jack Dorsey's IP law stance
(25:01) U.S. high-tech job market; revisiting IP law discussions
(30:03) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(31:03) IP law and American innovation(32:22) Challenges in startup exits and secondary trading platforms
(37:09) Figure AI's valuation controversy
(46:37) Startup insights and investing perspectives
(50:39) Jeff Bezos on risk assessment
(57:03) Jason’s personal journey and reflections
(1:02:06) Developing a samurai mindset; societal systems abstraction
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
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*
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:07) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
(19:42) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(30:03) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: We dive into the latest tech and startup news — including Palantir’s bold new fellowship program that challenges the traditional college path, and DoorDash’s rollout of burrito-delivering Coco robots in LA and Chicago. We debut our new segment “Tips from the Trenches,” focused on how to land your first customers, and wrap up with two great Office Hours: BRX.ai (self-healing AI agents) and InviteJet (calendar-based marketing). Plus, one founder’s wild story about a fake investor using an AI deepfake on Zoom. Don’t miss Jason’s tactical GTM advice and a reminder that if no one complains about your pricing, you’re probably too cheap.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show!
(2:01) Palantir's new fellowship program and alternative education paths
(9:12) Digg's Groundbreakers program and paid community model
(10:33) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(13:21) DoorDash's partnership with Coco robotics for deliveries and the future of robotic deliveries
(20:26) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
(21:56) Tips from the Trenches “Your First Customers”
(22:31) Strategies for acquiring first customers from Y Combinator founders
(30:35) AdQuick - For TWiST listeners - AdQuick is waiving their fee on your first campaign. Visit https://www.adquick.com/twist
(32:00) Office Hours with Jake and Daniel from BRX about their product and growth strategy
(41:05) Feedback on BRX's website clarity and branding strategies
(46:45) Office Hours with Brian Watson from InviteJet
(49:00) Challenges faced by InviteJet and dealing with fraudulent investors
(56:43) InviteJet's churn rates, ideal customer profiles, and future plans
(1:01:43) Discussing Invitejet's pricing strategies, customer loyalty, and marketing tactics
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Links from the show:
BRX AI: https://brx.ai/
InviteJet: https://www.invitejet.com/
*
Follow BRX:
X: https://x.com/BRXinc
*
Follow InviteJet:X: https://x.com/InviteJet
*
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/lons
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:33) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(20:26) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
(30:35) AdQuick - For TWiST listeners - AdQuick is waiving their fee on your first campaign. Visit https://www.adquick.com/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Jason, Alex, and Lon talk about stories reshaping the startup world: 70mph drone deliveries are officially live in Dallas, with Zipline and Walmart promising groceries “as the crow flies” in under 5 minutes. Meanwhile, Trump slaps a 125% tariff on China and hints at a global economic shakeup — Jason warns founders to brace for layoffs and bankruptcies unless they’ve got a Plan B and C. Finally, a UK startup sells for $450M and VCs barely break even… but the founders walk with $20M. Jason explains how small exits create the most dangerous kind of founder: the one who never needs another check. Plus Office Hours with Orchestra CEO Sergie Poe.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show!(1:37) Tariffs, market volatility, and startup implications(5:33) Startup resilience: Layoffs and bankruptcies(10:35) Brex. Get the business account trusted by 1 in 3 US startups at https://www.brex.com/banking-solutions(12:10) Globalization and startup ecosystems(13:52) Recent startup deals and Zipline's expansion(19:56) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist(21:16) Zipline drones and Marquese Brownlee’s review(24:31) 70MPH Drones and the future of ddeliveries(30:05) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!(31:51) Founder FridaysPitch Madness matchups(33:35) LifeStack and Burble pitches and discussion(43:26) Arcana and Tactun pitches and discussion(50:12) Summer West Whiskey and MomSub pitches and evaluation(56:36) Orchestra's office hours: Challenges and strategies
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Links from the show:
Orchestra: https://orch.so/
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:35) Brex. Get the business account trusted by 1 in 3 US startups at https://www.brex.com/banking-solutions
(19:56) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(30:05) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Jason and Alex unpack a wild week in tech and the markets — including a fake tweet that moved $4 trillion and Trump’s latest tariff talk. Lon jumps in for another round of Founder Fridays Pitch Madness, where four early-stage startups compete for a spot in the Elite Eight. Plus, Alex chats with Sunny Khamkar, CEO of MenuData, about how AI is revolutionizing the food industry. They also dive into how founders should rethink their runway, what Shopify’s bold AI memo means for the future, and whether VCs are placing earlier bets to chase that $1M ARR milestone. Don’t miss the founder pitches and a fresh take on AI-powered food trend tracking!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show!
(2:11) Market chaos, tariffs, and their effects
(5:59) Economic uncertainty: Advice for founders
(8:00) Tariffs' potential impact on tech sectors
(9:58) Fidelity Private Shares℠ - Visit https://www.fidelityprivateshares.com ! Mention our podcast and receive 20% off your first-year paid subscription.
(13:27) SignalFire's billion-dollar fund
(17:32) Achieving significant startup revenue and its importance
(20:20) Coda - Empower your startup with Coda’s Team Plan for free—get 6 months at https://www.Coda.io/twist
(21:54) Krea's $87 million raise and subscription model analysis
(27:33) Big tech's influence on niche subscription services
(30:02) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://gusto.com/twist
(31:09) AI advancements: Midjourney v7 and voice activation
(36:43) Shopify's AI Manifesto
(41:00) Founder Friday bracket updates
(57:16) Founder Q&A: Lessons for first-time founders
(1:05:00) MenuData's CEO Sunny Khamkar interview
(1:16:10) MenuData's pricing, customer base, and growth plans
(1:23:38) AI's vertical impact and Menu Data's strategy
*
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Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Links from the show:
Check out MenuData: https://www.menudata.ai/
Check out Krea: https://www.krea.ai/
Check out Tobi Lutke’s ”AI Manifesto” https://x.com/tobi/status/1909251946235437514
Check out Pitchfire: https://www.pitchfire.com/
Check out CREATANT: https://www.creatant.com/
Check out Vidala Labs: https://vidalalabs.com/
Check out Kippy: https://kippy.ai/
Follow Sunny Khamkar:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunny-khamkar-84b905a
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/Lons
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lonharris
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:58) Fidelity Private Shares℠ - Visit https://www.fidelityprivateshares.com ! Mention our podcast and receive 20% off your first-year paid subscription.
(20:20) Coda - Empower your startup with Coda’s Team Plan for free—get 6 months at https://www.Coda.io/twist
(30:02) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://gusto.com/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Jason and Alex dive into the startup world’s latest chaos — from Nasdaq’s slide and Trump’s tariffs to Klarna’s IPO pause and Rippling’s $16B target. They break down what founders really need to know: tightening CIO budgets, longer sales cycles, but easier hiring. Plus, TikTok’s ban gets another delay (with Bezos possibly lurking?). In Office Hours, they chat with two sharp founders: Luke Belbina from PodEngine, who's building AI for podcasters and doubling revenue, and David Moscatelli from Abacus, who’s bringing secure, on-prem AI to banks and just hit $1M ARR. Don’t miss it! 👇
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show!
[3:37] Cloud stocks dip: What it means for startups
[5:31] Trump's tariffs: A new startup recession?
[7:01] Retail’s reaction to tariff pressure
[10:16] LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
[12:35] Supply chains & startup struggles
[14:53] What’s still getting funded in VC
[17:21] Layoffs looming? What founders should prep for
[19:10] AI, macro takes & market signals
[21:32] Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
[23:21] European tech cooling off?
[24:36] Hiring freezes vs. easier recruiting
[27:39] Startup strategies in tough markets
[29:34] Vapi - Go to https://vapi.ai/twist and get 1000 minutes free per month - for life.
[31:38] How to communicate tough changes
[33:33] TikTok ban delayed… again
[39:38] Trump’s China playbook: Startup impact
[42:12] Office Hours: Luke from PodEngine
[47:31] Automating with AI & driving sales
[55:53] Pricing, lead gen & scaling tips
[1:06:30] Office Hours: David from Abacus
[1:08:32] On-prem AI for banks + hitting $1M ARR
[1:14:42] Team building & founder strategy
*
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Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Links from the show:
Check out PodEngine: https://www.podengine.ai/
Check out Abacus: https://www.goabacus.co/
*
Follow Luke:
X: https://x.com/lukebelbina
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lukebelbina/
*
Follow David:
X: https://x.com/DaveMoscatelli
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
[10:16] LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
[21:32] Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
[29:34] Vapi - Go to https://vapi.ai/twist and get 1000 minutes free per month - for life.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Kyte - TWIST Listeners: Go to https://kyte.com/ and download the Kyte app today. Use code JASON to save 10% on your first rental.
Atlassian - Head to https://www.atlassian.com/startups/twist to see if you qualify for 50 free seats for 12 months.
Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
Today’s show: Jason and Alex go deep into the shocking new details about the Rippling vs. Deel corporate espionage scandal—where a self-admitted spy fed confidential product roadmaps and sales data to a rival CEO for €5K/month. Plus, they interview Rabbit CEO Jesse Lyu about their bold comeback with their new “Intern” AI agent that builds entire apps from a single prompt - Jason calls it a breakthrough. And we kick off Pitch Madness with fierce Founder Friday pitch battles featuring AI podcast tools and women’s sports communities. Spy drama, next-gen tech, and raw founder energy—don’t miss it.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Teaser: Rippling vs. Deel Espionage Case(1:46) Podcast updates and listener engagement(2:31) Job openings at Launch and This Week in Startups(4:19) Rippling and Deel lawsuit details and espionage activities(9:58) Kyte - TWIST Listeners: Go to https://kyte.com/ and download the Kyte app today. Use code JASON to save 10% on your first rental.(11:31) Stolen information and the aftermath of the espionage case(16:21) Corporate espionage vs. corporate intelligence debate(19:38) Atlassian - Head to https://www.atlassian.com/startups/twist to see if you qualify for 50 free seats for 12 months.(23:07) Board independence, whistleblower protections, and CEO behavior(25:10) Y Combinator's culture of rule bending(28:41) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist(30:02) Jesse Lu's YC experience and launch of Rabbit(34:48) Navigating the hype cycle as a founder and RabbitOS demo(45:02) Estate management and technology with Rabbit(48:39) Conclusion of interview with Jesse Lu(48:51) Launching Founder Friday pitch offs(50:43) Pitch: Snipd - AI-powered podcast app(53:29) Pitch: MedSimple - Medical education platform(57:10) Pitch: Trova - Workplace connection platform(58:45) Pitch: Osprey - Community for women in sports and entertainment(1:05:30) Analysis and decision: MedSimple vs Snipped and Osprey vs Trova(1:09:23) Discussion on Osprey's business model(1:10:33) Tips for improving pitch presentations(1:11:02) Announcement of Twist 500 competition(1:11:46) Closing remarks and social media call to action
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Links from the show:
Rabbit website: https://www.rabbit.tech/?srsltid=AfmBOorumixyS_kXbNPL2tDqLBsI08B4Hs3xUSZkOLS2nlKsatop5VG2
Follow Jesse:X: https://x.com/jessechenglyu
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesselyu/
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(9:58) Kyte - TWIST Listeners: Go to https://kyte.com/ and download the Kyte app today. Use code JASON to save 10% on your first rental.
(19:38) Atlassian - Head to https://www.atlassian.com/startups/twist to see if you qualify for 50 free seats for 12 months.
(28:41) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Circle gears up for its IPO and the stablecoin wars heat up, Palantir’s meme stock status gets a reality check, and they riff on a possible Uber + DoorDash merger and whether AI should train on Substack content. They react to Sequoia partner Andrew Reed’s inside take on fund dynamics, laugh at a brutal VC meme, and wrap with “Office Hours” featuring Caylee Harrington, founder of Hookhub — the Airbnb for RV parking — to talk vanlife, growth, and building in an unsexy market.
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Timestamps:
(0:00) Alex and Jason kicks off the show!
(1:29) Palantir's stock and market dynamics
(5:43) Meme stocks and reversion to the mean
(6:57) X and XAI merger
(10:01) Squarespace - TWiST listeners: use code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain: https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(12:05) M&A trends in tech and AI content acquisitions
(17:22) Valuation strategies for acquisitions
(22:05) Oracle - TWiST listeners can try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist
(23:31) Circle's IPO and stablecoin regulations
(30:46) Fidelity Private Shares - Visit https://www.fidelityprivateshares.com! Mention our podcast and receive 20% off your first-year paid subscription.
(32:26) Crypto community and anti-money laundering in stablecoins
(37:43) IPO and SPAC updates in tech
(41:20) Deep tech investment risks and lessons from SPACs
(44:03) Hookhub's journey and RV market insights
(49:27) Growth and challenges in RV market
(52:01) Hookhub's social media and content strategy
(58:48) Hookhub's investor pitch and growth strategy
(1:04:11) Van life business model potential
(1:06:16) Sequoia's internal culture and investment strategy
(1:13:03) Sequoia vs. Andreessen Horowitz and VC indexing
(1:15:32) Venture capital humor and closing remarks
*
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Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Links from the show:
Hookhub: https://www.hookhub.co/
*
Follow Caylee:
X: https://x.com/Mariano_APO
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariano-apodaca-45b07a16a/
v
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:01) Squarespace - TWiST listeners: use code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain: https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(22:05) Oracle - TWiST listeners can try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist
(30:46) Fidelity Private Shares - Visit https://www.fidelityprivateshares.com! Mention our podcast and receive 20% off your first-year paid subscription.
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Jason, Alex, and Lon cover everything from wild political headlines to big moves in AI and venture. They kick things off with the surprising Trump pardon of Trevor Milton, the disgraced Nikola founder, and break down CoreWeave’s rocky IPO debut. Then, Jason and Alex sit down with Mariano Apodaca, founder of Prosperous AI, to talk about AI tools for negotiating construction and aerospace material costs. Later, in a brand new segment called "Office Hours with JCal," Jason reacts to real founder feedback clips, pulls key startup lessons, and explains why building for a market that doesn’t yet exist might actually be your biggest edge. Along the way, the team explores the power of taking just 10% of the value you create — a pricing philosophy that could unlock your next big win.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show!
(4:05) Breaking news on CoreWeave and Founder University insights
(9:21) Hubspot for Startups - Visit https://www.hubspot.com/startups and join the founders who are turning growth challenges into opportunities.
(10:57) Trevor Milton's pardon and AnySphere's Cursor success
(19:21) Pricing strategies for startups
(20:19) Vanta - TWiST listeners automate your SOC2 and get $1,000 off at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(21:38) AI sentiment and startup growth strategies
(25:14) Guest interview: Mariano from Prosperous AI
(30:21) Notion - TWiST listeners can try it for free at https://notion.com/twist
(31:52) Prosperous AI's market data integration and growth
(35:03) Founder University's impact on Prosperous AI
(40:54) Product line expansions and fundraising growth strategies
(44:20) Startup decision-making and investor feedback
(47:02) Founder University and customer feedback importance
(51:12) Canva CEO's insights and handling investor rejection
(58:17) Products creating new markets and finding outlier founders
(1:06:15) Venture success with Fred Wilson and Brad Burnham
(1:09:18) Market selection, execution, and partner-product fit in startups
*
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Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Links from the show:
Prosperous AI: https://prosperousprocess.ai/
*
Follow Mariano:
X: https://x.com/Mariano_APO
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariano-apodaca-45b07a16a/
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:21) Hubspot for Startups - Visit https://www.hubspot.com/startups and join the founders who are turning growth challenges into opportunities.
(20:19) Vanta - TWiST listeners automate your SOC2 and get $1,000 off at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(30:21) Notion - TWiST listeners can try it for free at https://notion.com/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
OpenPhone - Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/twist
LinkedIn Ads - To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
Brex - the financial stack founders can bank on. Get the business account trusted by 1 in 3 US startups at brex.com/banking-solutions.
Today’s show: Jason, Alex, and Lon dig into the controversy around 11x, the Andreessen-backed startup accused of misrepresenting revenue and using fake logos, and what that says about early-stage accountability. Then we break down China’s dual-front blitz in AI and EVs: DeepSeek’s open-source model rivals GPT-4, and Xiaomi’s $30K SU7 is a straight-up Porsche clone shaking the EV market. Finally, we unpack the “4-persona framework” that helped Wiz rocket to $100M+ ARR faster than anyone — a must-know concept for any founder looking to build, sell, and scale like a beast.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Episode Teaser
(1:27) Introduction of co-hosts Lon Harris and Alex Wilhelm
(3:23) New set design and color analysis(5:43) Announcement of "Twist OT" and potential Patreon model(
8:09) Gamestop's Bitcoin strategy and Michael Saylor's influence
(10:15) OpenPhone - Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/twist
(14:26) MSTR and their shift to Bitcoin
(17:01) Michael Saylor’s conflict of interest
(20:40) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(23:09) Investment strategies for company treasuries(25:10) Allegations against Eleven x startup
(30:35) Brex - the financial stack founders can bank on. Get the business account trusted by 1 in 3 US startups at brex.com/banking-solutions.
(32:56) The importance of transparency and accountability in startups
(42:31) Chinese advancements in AI technology and ChatGPT features
(55:09) Insight from Israeli VC Gili Raanan on successful startups
(1:04:26) Founder Friday March Pitch Madness bracket competition
(1:10:26) How to start a Founder Friday chapter and community
(1:11:21) Bracket competition and Launch Accelerator's 34th cohort
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/Lons
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lonharris
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:15) OpenPhone - Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/twist
(20:40) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(30:35) Brex - Get the business account trusted by 1 in 3 US startups at https://www.brex.com/banking-solutions
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: In this episode, Alex and Lon kick things off with the latest tech news — including 23andMe’s dramatic collapse, MicroStrategy’s half-million Bitcoin haul, and whether we’re finally seeing a rebound in startup M&A. Then they sit down with three standout founders building the future across AI chips, data privacy, and healthcare. First up, Etched CEO Gavin Uberti explains why they’re betting big on transformer-specific ASICs. Then, Skyflow co-founder Anshu Sharma breaks down how they’re helping enterprises use LLMs without leaking private data. Finally, MedServe’s team walks us through how they’re securing medications in outpatient clinics and staying on the right side of the DEA.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Alex kicks off the show
(1:15) 23andMe bankruptcy and SPACs impact
(5:23) MicroStrategy's Bitcoin strategy
(8:58) Increase in M&A activity and market trends
(10:06) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(13:37) Browser use, agentic AI, and VC market insights
(19:28) Financial responsibility in startups
(20:28) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(21:56) Interview with Gavin Uberti of Etched
(30:32) Fidelity Private Shares℠ - Visit https://www.fidelityprivateshares.com ! Mention our podcast and receive 20% off your first-year paid subscription.
(32:12) Economic and technical aspects of chip efficiency
(39:53) Etched's market demand, manufacturing, and AI scaling
(43:05) Founder insights and hardware startup potential
(45:43) Introduction to Skyflow and Anshu Sharma
(50:19) Skyflow's growth and customer acquisition strategies
(1:03:09) ServiceNow's new product and Skyflow's bullish outlook
(1:06:33) M&A interest and AI stack value creation
(1:12:06) Skyflow's funding and cybersecurity customer trust
(1:13:12) Introduction to MedServe and Milwaukee's startup ecosystem
(1:16:30) MedServ's solution to drug dispensing and diversion
(1:23:05) Economic challenges and solutions for smaller facilities
(1:26:50) MedServe cabinet features and use case demonstration
(1:29:51) Cybersecurity and physical security of MedServe systems
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Etched:
Website: https://www.etched.com/
X: https://x.com/Etched
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/etched-ai/
*
Follow MedServe:
Website: https://medserverx.com/
X: https://x.com/MedServeRX
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/medserverx/
*
Follow Skyflow:
Website: https://www.skyflow.com/
X: https://x.com/SkyflowAPI
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skyflow/
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/Lons
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:06) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(20:28) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(30:32) Fidelity Private Shares℠ - Visit https://www.fidelityprivateshares.com Mention our podcast and receive 20% off your first-year paid subscription.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Jason, Alex, and Lon break down a subreddit question: A founder builds 100% of the product, is promised equity—and now he’s being pushed out. We break down exactly what he should do next. Plus, YouTuber Mark Rober’s viral Tesla test gets fact-checked by a small creator, and the results don’t look great for Mark. Finally, TechCrunch gets quietly sold to Regent in what looks like a fire sale. Is this the end of an era for tech media?
Timestamps:
(0:00) Episode Teaser(1:25) Jason's memories of Tony Hsieh
(4:09) High stakes poker stories with Tony Hsieh
(7:28) Reflecting on joy and fun in life
(9:45) Atlassian - Head to https://www.atlassian.com/startups/twist to see if you qualify for 50 free seats for 12 months.(11:46) Founder question from Reddit
(20:12) Fidelity Private Shares℠ - Visit https://fidelityprivateshares.com! Mention our podcast and receive 20% off your first-year paid subscription.
(21:52) Subreddit question: Stealth vs. building in public(27:33) Update: Mark Rober's Looney Tunes wall experiment
(31:21) Lemon.io - Get $2000 off your first hire at http://lemon.io/hire
(37:50) Lessons from the Mark Rober experiment
(40:24) The future of tech journalism and subscription models
(47:34) Jason’s idea for a gadget museum
(50:12) Updates on CoreWeave and Klarna IPOs
(51:43) Bipartisan bill to amend Section 230
(56:29) Algorithms and their impact on Section 230
(59:00) Global perspectives on online speech and anonymity
(1:00:00) Podcast closing and call for social media engagement
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
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X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(9:45) Atlassian - Head to https://www.atlassian.com/startups/twist to see if you qualify for 50 free seats for 12 months.
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Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Tesla FSD drama, Google’s massive $32B cybersecurity bet, and XRP’s SEC victory. Jason, Lon, and Alex break down the internet firestorm over Mark Rober’s viral Tesla test, why Google’s Wiz acquisition could spark a new M&A wave, and what the SEC dropping its case against XRP means for crypto’s future.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Episode Teaser(1:27) Show intro(2:01) Jason's skiing trip and Tesla stock banter(3:00) Criticism of Democratic party’s approach(5:44) Discussion of Mark Rober's Tesla and lidar video and autopilot vs FSD(8:00) Mark Rober's response and debate over his relationship with lidar CEO(9:56) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://gusto.com/twist(11:02) Further criticisms and analysis of Rober's video and audience expectations(19:41) Suggestion for Rober to redo the test and video title accuracy(20:07) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!(21:38) Accountability and public reaction to Rober's video(25:00) Potential fallout, personal consequences, and stock impact(29:58) AdQuick - For TWiST listeners - AdQuick is waiving their fee on your first campaign. Visit https://www.adquick.com/twist(31:18) Personal investments and conflicts of interest(33:25) Wiz acquisition and implications for M&A market(37:28) Calculation of returns and LP impact(40:38) Benefits of M&A for society and antitrust concerns(43:27) Examples of market cornering, price gouging, and cloud computing(49:29) XRP and SEC lawsuit update and implications(56:29) Proposed regulations for crypto projects and Trump coin(1:00:21) The need for clear crypto regulations and potential for new projects
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Links from the show:
Mark Rober’s Philip Defranco interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W1htfqXyX6M
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(9:56) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://gusto.com/twist(20:07) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!(29:58) AdQuick - For TWiST listeners - AdQuick is waiving their fee on your first campaign. Visit https://www.adquick.com/twist
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Alex interviews two incredible founders from the TWIST 500! First, Replit CEO Amjad Masad breaks down how AI-powered coding is changing software development and what the future of agents looks like. Then, Starfish Space co-founder Austin Link explains how they’re building a satellite towing service to extend missions and clean up orbit. Two deep dives into the future of tech and space.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Alex kicks off the episode!
(0:53) Discussing Replit's capabilities and introduction of CEO Amjad Masad
(4:17) Replit's evolution and turning down a billion-dollar acquisition offer
(9:48) Vapi - Go to https://vapi.ai/twist and get 1000 minutes free per month - for life.
(11:42) Impact of LLMs and AI agents
(17:13) Choosing Anthropic's Claude for Replit
(19:46) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit http://northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
(21:29) Anthropic success and closed source AI implications
(24:37) Replit market response and economics of AI models
(28:14) Future of Replit's AI tools and plans
(33:41) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
(35:12) Introduction to Starfish Space and its mission
(38:50) Core missions and challenges of the Otter satellite
(47:29) First official mission with Otter and key partnerships
(50:57) Economics and ownership of satellite services
(53:11) Key components of the Otter project
(57:19) Startups in the space economy and comparison with Orbit Fab
(59:08) Starfish Space hiring push and final thoughts
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.comCheck out the
TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Links from the show:
Check out Starfish Space: https://www.starfishspace.com/
Check out Replit: https://replit.com/
Follow Amjad:
X: https://x.com/amasad
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amjadmasad/
Follow Austin Link:
X: https://x.com/Austin
LinkLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-link-space/
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Thank you to our partners:
(9:48) Vapi - Go to https://vapi.ai/twist and get 1000 minutes free per month - for life.
(19:46) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit http://northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
(33:41) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
All rights for the video shared and linked below belong to the original copyright holder, and we are using the footage under the principle of fair use.
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Jason, Alex, and Lon break down a wild viral test on self-driving cars— will FSD see through fog, or does LiDAR win? Plus, Klarna is finally going public… but is "buy now, pay later" still the future or just a debt trap? And Netflix drops $300M on a Russo Brothers sci-fi blockbuster—critics hate it, but audiences love it. Was it worth it? We also dive into big tech’s crackdown on remote work, the Uber of estate managers, and why content creators might be falling into an algorithmic trap.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Teaser: Can you fool a self-driving car?
(3:11) The Electric State film discussion
(7:35) Netflix's strategy, subscriber growth, and podcast licensing deals
(10:06) Disney's content strategy insights
(10:55) NetSuite. Download the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine Learning for free at https://www.netsuite.com/twist
(14:27) Kids investment club and estate manager service ideas
(21:02) Horatio - Visit https://www.hirehoratio.com/twist and get $2,000 off your initial set up.
(22:44) Estate management expansion and Uber's role in transportation
(27:19) Klarna's IPO, financials, and buy now, pay later services concerns
(30:25) Lemon.io. Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(35:12) E-commerce trends and algorithmic content creation impact
(40:21) Remote vs. in-person technical interviews
(43:08) Work-life balance, early rising myths, and avoiding burnout
(50:45) The importance of mentorship and coaching
(52:06) Google autocorrect issues for startup names and future of SEO
(56:24) Mark Rober's "Can you fool a self-driving car?" video discussion
(1:00:13) Human vs. FSD driving standards and safety
(1:03:29) Waymo's strategy and autonomous driving competition concerns
(1:06:14) Government regulations and milestones for autonomous vehicles
(1:08:18) Global AI competition and safety standards in the automotive industry
*
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Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
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Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/Lons
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lonharris
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:55) NetSuite. Download the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine Learning for free at https://www.netsuite.com/twist(21:02) Horatio - Visit https://www.hirehoratio.com/twist and get $2,000 off your initial set up.(30:25) Lemon.io. Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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Today’s show: Jason and Alex break down the biggest tech stories of the moment. OpenAI is pushing to rewrite copyright laws to benefit AI companies while suing others for doing the same—hypocrisy or smart strategy? Meanwhile, European startups are fleeing to the U.S. as overregulation and weak IPO markets make scaling harder. Harry Stebbings joins to discuss whether Project Europe can reverse the trend. Plus, with AI-driven startups staying lean, angel investing is evolving—should investors wait for traction or bet on potential? Jason shares his 2024 playbook. Watch the full episode now!
Timestamps:
(0:00) Episode Teaser(1:15) OpenAI's recommendations, stance on copyright, and ethics(8:30) Sam Altman's political donations and the media's response
(9:41) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist(15:48) Introduction of guest Harry Stebbings and his venture capital journey(19:51) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(22:05) Discussing the human aspect of investing and handling criticism(27:37) Project Europe and its support for EU founders(30:49) CLA. Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://www.claconnect.com/tech(32:16) Balancing roles as an investor and public figure(33:04) Analyzing the European startup ecosystem(35:48) Addressing Project Europe's age cap and mentorship(38:09) Global talent competition and Europe's stance(42:29) Economic impacts and the future of Project Europe(45:18) Growth and housing in Austin compared to other tech regions(47:36) Startup funding strategies and angel investment advice(55:27) Evolving startup and content creation landscapes(57:37) Founder University announcement
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Links from the show:
Check out Project Europe: https://www.projecteurope.co/
Check out 20VC: https://www.thetwentyminutevc.com/
Check out Stride VC: https://stride.vc/
Follow Harry:
X: https://x.com/HarryStebbingsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harrystebbings
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(9:41) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist(19:51) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(30:49) CLA. Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://www.claconnect.com/tech
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Europe wants to keep its founders from fleeing, AI is growing at breakneck speed, and Nick Denton is back with a spicy Twitter storm—so we had to talk about it. Jason, Alex, and Lon break down Project Europe, a new $10M fund aimed at stopping the European startup brain drain. Plus, Anthropic’s revenue just jumped 40% in a single quarter, and we debate what that means for AI’s future. Meanwhile, China’s EV makers are coming for Tesla, Saudi Arabia is building a gaming empire with a $3.5B Pokémon GO buyout, and we ask the big question: Should X and XAI just merge? Since XAI gets real-time data from X, it’s got a major advantage—so what’s stopping them from becoming one?
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Timestamps:
(0:00) Alex, Jason and Lon kick off the show!
(1:29) Recap of Jason's appearance on Glenn Beck's show and advice to MBA students
(4:21) The value of an MBA vs. starting a company(8:14) Nick Denton on Musk, Trump, and investment thesis
(9:47 Squarespace. Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(15:16) The rise of Chinese EV manufacturers and Tesla's challenges
(19:09) Jason's stance on vandalism, protests, and political affiliations
(20:35) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit http://northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
(23:13) Tesla's brand challenges and future prospects
(25:03) Jason's audience and political neutrality(26:35) Inflation data and its implications for startups
(28:07) Project Europe and entrepreneurship in the EU and Middle East
(29:45) AdQuick. Easily plan, deploy and measure out-of-home campaigns as easily as digital ads. Visit www.AdQuick.com/twist to learn more
(38:09) Jason's personal health and productivity protocol
(41:18) Anthropic's revenue growth, API credits, and AI developments(45:09) AI competition and consumer trust
(46:41) Mainstream adoption of ChatGPT and AI challengers
(48:02) Grok AI's integration with X
(51:12) Sale of Niantic's games business and global market shifts(
58:06) India's economic rise and TSMC's potential deal with Intel
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Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
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Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/Lons
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lonharris
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:47 Squarespace. Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(20:35) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit http://northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
(29:45) AdQuick. Easily plan, deploy and measure out-of-home campaigns as easily as digital ads. Visit www.AdQuick.com/twist to learn more
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
In this episode of AI Basics, Jason sits down with Jia Li from LiveX AI to explore how human-like AI agents are changing the game for businesses. Instead of clunky bots, these AI agents engage customers in real-time, helping with onboarding, support, and even stopping them from leaving before they churn. We’ll break down how they work, why they feel more natural than traditional chatbots, and how companies can train them to eliminate costly mistakes. Plus, we’ll talk about whether AI-powered support might actually be better than human agents.
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Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction to startup and AI basics(1:00) Collaboration with Google and insights from industry experts(1:44) Introduction of Jia Li and LiveX AI's innovative customer retention(4:32) LiveX AI's AI agent demonstration and training methodologies(9:38) Personalizing user experience with LiveX AI
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Uncover more valuable insights from AI leaders in Google Cloud's 'Future of AI: Perspectives for Startups' report. Discover what 23 AI industry leaders think about the future of AI—and how it impacts your business. Read their perspectives here: https://goo.gle/futureofai
*
Check out all of the Startup Basics episodes here: https://thisweekinstartups.com/basics
Check out Google Cloud: https://cloud.google.com/
Check out LiveX AI: https://www.livex.ai/
*
Follow Jia Li:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lijiali/
X: https://x.com/lijiali_vision
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Timestamps:
(0:00) Roy Lee's hack and Amazon's reaction
(3:03) MicroStrategy's Bitcoin strategy(4:29) Market reactions to Trump's policies(6:33) Creating value in current market conditions(8:00) South by Southwest highlights
(10:19) Coda. Empower your startup with Coda’s Team plan for free—get 6 months at https://www.Coda.io/twist
(12:03) The $20,000 electric car concept(16:18) Electric unicycles as a startup category
(19:12) Vanta. TWiST listeners automate your SOC2 and get $1,000 off at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(20:31) Electric unicycles trend discussion(21:31) Guest introduction: Roy Lee(23:32) Roy Lee's background and startup idea(25:41) Technical coding tests and InterviewCoder
(30:14) LinkedIn Jobs. Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
(32:01) Amazon's reaction to InterviewCoder and Columbia's actions(37:03) Roy Lee's future and startup funding discussion(41:19) Hiring, revenue, and fundraising strategies(44:37) Venture capital dynamics and maintaining company control(47:52) Capturing audience before investment and SBF's legal issues(57:57) ServiceNow acquires Moveworks(1:00:00) Impact of Tiger's peak valuations on LPs and IRR calculations*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Roy:
X: https://x.com/im_roy_lee
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roy-lee-goat/
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:19) Coda. Empower your startup with Coda’s Team plan for free—get 6 months at https://www.Coda.io/twist
(19:12) Vanta. TWiST listeners automate your SOC2 and get $1,000 off at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(30:14) LinkedIn Jobs. Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: AI is evolving at lightning speed—smarter assistants, faster models, and now, the massive energy demands that come with it. In this episode, Alex dives into two cutting-edge companies from the TWIST 500 that are shaping AI’s future in very different ways. First, Alex interviews Zap Energy, where CEO Benj Conway explains how their breakthrough fusion power technology could provide unlimited, clean energy to fuel AI and beyond. Then, we talk to PolyAI, where CEO Nikola Mrkšić shares how their conversational AI is revolutionizing customer service with ultra-realistic, human-like voice assistants. If you're excited about where AI is headed—from hyper-realistic agents to a future powered by fusion—this is an episode you don’t want to miss!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) AI's impact on business and technology; Fusion technology; AI powered voice assistants(1:51) Power demands of AI; Fusion energy's potential and commercialization(6:50) Zap Energy's approach to scaling and efficiency in fusion(9:58) Oracle. Try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist(12:11) Zap Energy's Sentry project and the future of fusion power(18:02) Competition in fusion development and importance of liquid metal walls(20:10) Squarespace. Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(21:38) Thermal management in fusion energy and Zap Energy's milestones(24:19) PolyAI's CEO on conversational AI and generative AI(28:39) Founding PolyAI and advancements in AI technology(30:30) Atlassian. Head to https://www.atlassian.com/software/startups to see if you qualify for 50 free seats for 12 months.(32:30) PolyAI's technology stack and deep learning advancements(39:13) Growth, competitive landscape, and AI's impact on employment(46:16) Startups M&A in applied AI and conclusion with Nikola Mrkšić*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Links from the show:
Check out Zap Energy: https://www.zapenergy.com/
Check out Poly AI: https://poly.ai/
*
Follow Benj Conway:
X: https://x.com/Energy_Zap
*
Follow Nikola Mrkšić:
X: https://x.com/nikola_mrksic
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikola-mrksic
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:58) Oracle. Try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist(20:10) Squarespace. Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(30:30) Atlassian. Head to https://www.atlassian.com/software/startups to see if you qualify for 50 free seats for 12 months.
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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Today’s show: Jason and Alex cover CoreWeave’s filing for a $35 billion IPO after explosive revenue growth. But with 77% of its revenue coming from just two customers, is it built to last? Meanwhile, AVRide is bringing autonomous Hyundai robotaxis to Uber in Dallas, pushing the self-driving revolution forward as Waymo scales to 200,000 weekly rides. And finally, Digg is back! Kevin Rose and Alexis Ohanian are reviving the iconic social news platform, using AI-powered moderation to tackle Reddit’s biggest challenge. Tune in as Jason and Alex break it all down!
Timestamps:
(0:00) Episode teaser(1:34) Jason's South by Southwest appearances & All In fan meetups(4:17) Digg relaunch, history, and Kevin Rose's AI strategy(10:05) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!(11:43) Jason’s involvement with Digg’s revival and lessons learned(15:02) Using Reddit for startup communities(20:00) Lemon.io. Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist(22:07) Kevin Rose's journey and ketamine therapy(24:18) CoreWeave's public filing, clients, and revenue growth(29:52) Horatio. Visit https://www.hirehoratio.com/twist and get $2,000 off your initial set up.(34:22) CoreWeave's potential acquisition and investor IRR(40:45) Using LLMs for financial analysis and political funding discussion(46:19) CoreWeave data centers and AV Ride partnership with Uber(50:18) Challenges in electric bikes and healthcare startups(53:10) Novo Nordisk's direct-to-consumer strategy with Wegovy(57:28) Future of healthcare and Brian Johnson's health regimen(1:05:52) Challenges and excitement in the autonomous vehicle industry
Links from episode:
Check out digg: https://digg.com/
Check out AVRide: https://www.avride.ai/robot
Check out the Mozi app: https://www.mozi.app/
Check out Nerd Crawler: https://www.nerdcrawler.com/
Check out article about Novo Nordisk and Wegovy: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/03/05/novo-nordisk-goes-direct-to-consumer-with-wegovy-what-it-means-for-obesity-rival-eli-lilly.html
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Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:05) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!(20:00) Lemon.io. Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist(29:52) Horatio. Visit https://www.hirehoratio.com/twist and get $2,000 off your initial set up.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
In this episode: Jason sits down with Harrison Chase, CEO of LangChain, to explore how AI-powered agents are transforming the way startups operate. They discuss the shift from traditional entry-level roles to AI-driven automation, the importance of human-in-the-loop systems, and the future of AI-powered assistants in business. Harrison shares insights on how companies like Replit, Klarna, and GitLab are leveraging AI agents to streamline operations, plus a look ahead at what's next for AI-driven workflows. Brought to you in partnership with Google Cloud.
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Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction to Startup Basics series & Importance of AI in startups(2:04) Partnership with Google Cloud & Introducing Harrison Chase from Langchain(4:38) Evolution of entry-level jobs & Examples of AI agents in startups(8:00) Challenges & Future of AI agents in startups(14:24) AI agents in collaborative spaces & Non-developers creating AI agents(18:40) Closing remarks and where to learn more
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Uncover more valuable insights from AI leaders in Google Cloud's 'Future of AI: Perspectives for Startups' report. Discover what 23 AI industry leaders think about the future of AI—and how it impacts your business. Read their perspectives here: https://goo.gle/futureofai
*
Check out all of the Startup Basics episodes here: https://thisweekinstartups.com/basics
Check out Google Cloud: https://cloud.google.com/
Check out LangChain: https://www.langchain.com/
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Follow Harrison:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harrison-chase-961287118/
X: https://x.com/hwchase17
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Today’s show: Trump just floated the idea of a U.S. Crypto Reserve, suggesting a 10 bips transaction tax and naming unexpected altcoins like XRP, Solana, and Cardano. Jason and Alex break down what this means for crypto markets, regulation, and startups—plus the legal and political fallout. Is this a game-changer or just another pump-and-dump controversy?
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Alex and Jason kick of the show!(1:48) Trump's crypto policy and PR strategy(7:14) Analysis of Trump's proposed US crypto reserve
(10:21) Gusto. Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://gusto.com/twist(11:32) Predictions on legal challenges to Trump's crypto proposal(12:08) Industry reactions to the crypto tax proposal
(20:27) OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist(22:26) Crypto report around market hours and Eric Trump's tweet(24:13) Predictions on Trump's future crypto policies and inflation impact(27:10) Trump's Truth Social and Crypto Investments dynamics(30:48) LinkedIn Jobs. Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist(31:05) Jason's alternative idea for a crypto tax(36:40) Ramp's funding and fintech sector growth(41:02) Discussion on investment performance and Jason's ETF idea(46:42) Challenges companies face with public offerings and market fairness(50:14) Potential CoreWeave IPO and high CapEx costs(54:39) Founder Hack from Matt Turck(57:12) Exploring hybrid business models
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Links from the episode:
Check out Angel University: https://www.angel.university/Check out the JCal Case Study at Stanford Business: https://www.gsb.stanford.edu/faculty-research/case-studies/jason-calacanis-case-study-creating-resourcesCheck out Arduino: https://www.arduino.cc/Check out Ramp: https://ramp.com/
Check out Coreweave: https://www.coreweave.com/
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Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm*
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/Lons
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lonharris
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Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
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Thank you to our partners:
(10:21) Gusto. Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://gusto.com/twist(20:27) OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist(30:48) LinkedIn Jobs. Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
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Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Jason and Alex break down the latest head-scratching SEC ruling on meme coins—did they just legalize pump-and-dumps to protect Trump’s token? Plus, they dive into why venture debt can destroy startups, the rise of AI-driven companies, and how Tesla is gearing up to challenge Waymo in the self-driving car race. Then, Brandon Brown from GRIN joins the show to talk about scaling to 8-figure revenue, surviving brutal market corrections, and why he’s stepping down as CEO after a decade. This one’s packed with insights for founders, investors, and anyone watching the future of crypto, startups, and AI unfold.*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show!(1:39) Palmer Luckey feud, and supporting Trump in Silicon Valley(9:36) AI's impact on startup growth and job displacement
(10:11) Paddle. Go to https://www.paddle.com/twist to get started with your exclusive listener fee-free period.(12:20) Product market fit and Salesforce productivity(15:01) Howey Test and its application to cryptocurrencies
(20:07) LinkedIn Ads. Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups(26:13) Jason's libertarian views on meme coins
(31:13) Hubspot for Startups. Get up to 75% off plus 3 months of Perplexity AI for free. Go to https://www.hubspot.com/startups(32:16) Meme coin regulation and political implications(37:22) GRIN's Brandon Brown interview and company evolution(46:10) Leadership changes and challenges at GRIN(53:28) Venture debt risks and business cycle preparedness(59:00) Leadership skills and defining reality(1:04:13) Updates on Waymo and autonomous rides(1:09:06) Tesla and the global autonomous vehicle market
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
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Check out GRIN: https://grin.co/
Checkout Angel University with Jason Calacanis & Mike Savino: https://www.angel.university/
Check out the Founder Friday City Competition: https://www.founderfridays.tech/city-competition
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Follow Brandon
X: https://x.com/Brandon_Brown
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-brown-0898731/
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Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
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X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
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Thank you to our partners:
(10:11) Paddle. Go to https://www.paddle.com/twist to get started with your exclusive listener fee-free period.(20:07) LinkedIn Ads. Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups(31:13) Hubspot for Startups. Get up to 75% off plus 3 months of Perplexity AI for free. Go to https://www.hubspot.com/startups
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Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
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Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Jason interviews Rahul Vohra, CEO and founder of Superhuman, and Vlad Tenev, CEO and co-founder of Robinhood. This is a packed episode featuring founder tips, fun stories about how Superhuman and Robinhood got their start and much more!
Timestamps:
(0:00) Episode teaser(2:13) Product market fit and founder journeys(3:25) Jason's investment in Superhuman and market positioning(5:14) AI's role and features in Superhuman(10:25) Lemon.io. Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist(14:37) Targeting users and competitive advantages(22:23) Evolution and new features of Superhuman
(20:52) Northwest Registered Agent. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
(24:37) Tackling spam with Superhuman's AI
(27:05) Custom auto labels and email classification
(29:47) Vapi. Go to Vapi.ai and use code Twist200 to get $200 in credits
(32:03) Superhuman's auto reminders and drafts
(34:14) Vlad Tenev and the origins of Robinhood
(39:31) Product design philosophies of Robinhood and Superhuman
(49:29) Scaling design principles and investment decisions(
52:31) Subjectivity in product design
(55:14) Customer feedback in product development
(1:00:00) Superhuman's subscription model and customer acquisition
(1:05:11) PR strategies and news hijacking
(1:12:06) Investment experiences with Robinhood
(1:13:35) Navigating company valuation fluctuations
(1:15:03) Influences on Vlad Tenev and new Robinhood desktop product
(1:22:02) Company resilience and employee reorganization
(1:25:52) Crypto regulation and startup mentality
(1:30:05) Investment trends among Robinhood users
(1:31:12) Retail benefits for startups and capital raising challenges
(1:34:04) Accreditation for private investing and solutions
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Links from this episode:
Check out Superhuman: https://superhuman.com/
Check out Superhuman’s blog post that details all of the new features Rahul went over in the demo: https://blog.superhuman.com/the-next-superhuman-ai/.
Check out Robinhood Legend: https://robinhood.com/us/en/legend/
Article “How Superhuman Built an Engine to Find Product Market Fit”: https://review.firstround.com/how-superhuman-built-an-engine-to-find-product-market-fit/
Check out Rick Rubin’s book: https://www.amazon.ca/Creative-Act-Way-Being/dp/0593652886
Article on Bezos and Washington Post: https://www.newsweek.com/bezos-makes-big-change-washington-post-opinion-focus-endorsed-musk-2036618
Media Bias Chart: https://www.allsides.com/media-bias/media-bias-chart
Check out “Working Backwards” book about Amazon insights: https://www.amazon.ca/Working-Backwards-Insights-Stories-Secrets/dp/1250267595
Check out Rahul’s article on acquisition: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/rip-mailbox-founders-how-stop-worrying-love-being-acquired-vohra/
Follow Rahul:
X: https://x.com/rahulvohra
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rahulvohra/
Follow Vlad:
X: https://x.com/vladtenev
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vlad-tenev-7037591b/
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(10:25) Lemon.io. Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(20:52) Northwest Registered Agent. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!
(29:47) Vapi. Go to Vapi.ai and use code Twist200 to get $200 in credits
Today’s show: Jason and Lon break down the latest trends shaping AI training, the evolving job market, and the shifting landscape of social media. A tribute to Steve Jobs on what would have been his 70th birthday explores his lasting impact, Apple’s massive $500 billion AI investment, and the future of US manufacturing. The conversation dives into Outlier’s role in AI training data, its effects on journalism, and broader job market implications. Jason also shares insights on autonomous vehicles, Apple’s AI strategy, and the latest in crypto—covering meme coins, regulatory battles, and the state of angel investing. Plus, a look at Oscar season and the cultural moments making waves.
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Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Lon kick off the show!(2:59) TikTok discussion and Steve Jobs' 70th birthday tribute(4:36) Jason's history with Steve Jobs and impact of blogging(8:56) Jason's interaction with Steve Jobs about podcast monetization(10:13) Squarespace. Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(11:27) Steve Jobs' legacy and Apple's innovation(14:12) Apple's $500 billion investment in AI and TSMC chip manufacturing(20:08) Vanta. Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist(21:18) Geopolitical implications of Apple's US manufacturing investments(24:06) Outlier's role in AI training data and legal risks(27:02) Journalists in AI training and job market implications(30:40) Vapi. Go to https://www.vapi.ai and use code Twist200 to get $200 in credits(32:39) Outlier’s AI training recruitment and global reach(34:14) AI's future in various industries(36:53) Experiences with autonomous vehicles and Waymo(37:23) Hot-swappable LLMs and Apple's AI integrations(41:03) Commercial implications of AI deals for Apple(43:08) Public access to podcast docket and meme coins discussion(47:03) Milei’s meme coin and libertarian views on crypto(52:15) Crypto trader's tragic incident and dangers of investing on margin(58:19) Jason's gambling habits and future of crypto regulation(1:01:05) Angel investing and Oscar season discussion
*
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Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/Lons
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lonharris
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Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
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Thank you to our partners:
(10:13) Squarespace. Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(20:08) Vanta. Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist(30:40) Vapi. Go to https://www.vapi.ai and use code Twist200 to get $200 in credits
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara,Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta,Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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Today’s show: Jason interviews Bryon Hargis, CEO of Castelion, about the United State’s hypersonic technology gap with China, how we’re catching up and what it will take to win the hypersonic missile race. Alex interviews Jager McConnell, CEO of Crunchbase, about their newly released, scary accurate, AI powered predictive models.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Episode teaser(1:14) Introduction of Byron Hargis and Castellion's mission(2:20) Significance of hypersonic munitions(5:55) Impact and challenges of hypersonic systems in defense(7:16) Castellion's development and cost of hypersonic weapons(9:39) Squarespace. Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(12:28) Shift in defense contracting and venture backing(18:25) Sales strategies and founder insights in defense startups(19:38) LinkedIn Jobs. Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist(21:10) China's manufacturing capabilities and defense paradigm shifts(24:37) Role of automation and robots in manufacturing(28:58) AdQuick. Visit https://adquick.com/twist and mention TWIST to get $1000 off your first campaign.(31:37) Crunchbase's transition to predictive insights(38:01) Crunchbase's technology stack and AI models(41:36) Financial implications of AI-first model for Crunchbase(48:43) AI integration challenges and financial performance(52:50) AI-driven predictions and their accuracy(54:24) Future prospects for Crunchbase: Acquisition vs. IPO(55:22) Upcoming guests: Vlad from Robinhood and Raul from Superhuman
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Checkout Castelion:
X: https://x.com/CastelionCorp
Website: castelion.com
Checkout Crunchbase:
X: https://x.com/crunchbase
Website: https://www.crunchbase.com/
Follow Bryon:
X: https://x.com/hargsb
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cbh/
Follow Jager:
X: https://x.com/jagermcconnell
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jager/
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(9:39) Squarespace. Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(19:38) LinkedIn Jobs. Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist(28:58) AdQuick. Visit https://adquick.com/twist and mention TWIST to get $1000 off your first campaign.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara,Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta,Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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*Gusto pricing shown in ad is based on pricing prior to March 2025
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Today’s show: Jason and Lon Harris cover Nikola’s Chapter 11 and how founders can avoid the same mistake, Superhuman AI’s new features, Mira Murati’s Thinking Machines and where Sam Altman went wrong holding onto top talent, plus much more!
Timestamps:
(0:00) Episode teaser(1:26) Introduction to startup news and trends(2:47) Bill Ackman's J trade and Herbalife controversy(5:24) Comparing trading strategies: Jason vs. Pelosi(9:49) Gusto. Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://gusto.com/twist(11:29) HP's acquisition of Humane and its significance(13:52) Challenges facing the AI industry(20:30) Lemon.io. Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist(21:47) OpenAI veterans launch a new venture(28:09) Chamath's venture into high stakes poker(29:35) Atlassian. Head to https://www.atlassian.com/software/startups to see if you qualify for 50 free seats for 12 months.(36:37) Nikola's Chapter 11 filing and securities fraud(48:10) The upside of failing as a founder in the U.S.(50:24) Superhuman introduces AI-powered email features(51:58) Preview of upcoming guests on the podcast(53:03) Key characteristics of successful founders(56:21) Play-along: Guess the fake startup(1:04:12) Movie trilogy rankings: Superman, Star Wars, Terminator
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
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Check out these past Guess The Fake Startups segments:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iKP2iiF1oYI
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rhnOXuGnh14
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ueazpyGOgcc
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/alex
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(9:49) Gusto. Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://gusto.com/twist
*Gusto pricing shown in ad is based on pricing prior to March 2025
(20:30) Lemon.io. Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist(
29:35) Atlassian. Head to https://www.atlassian.com/software/startups to see if you qualify for 50 free seats for 12 months.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara,Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta,Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
In today's episode: Jason and Alex break down one of the craziest crypto stories yet—a $100M meme coin meltdown, insider trading, and Argentina’s president caught in the middle. Coffeezilla joins the show to explain how meme coins are rigged, why Dave Portnoy got a $5M refund while everyone else got wrecked, and what really went down with the Libra token. Plus, we debate if crypto can be fixed or if the grift is too far gone.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show.(2:17) Libra fiasco, crypto scams, and influencer involvement(4:42) The impact of meme coins on politics and ethical considerations(8:02) Trump's involvement in meme coins(10:10) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!(11:30) The Libra coin scandal and its broader implications(18:39) Coffeezilla interview clip with Hayden Davis(20:20) Netsuite. Download the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine Learning for free at https://www.netsuite.com/twist(21:46) Introduction to Pump.fun and discussion on token launching risks(23:21) Coffeezilla joins Alex and Jason!(24:10) Discussion on Argentinian president and Tech Forum Argentina(27:29) Examination of Hayden Davis and token manipulation(29:29) Horatio. Visit https://www.hirehoratio.com/twist and get $2,000 off your initial setup.(31:02) Analysis of the broken crypto system and regulatory issues(35:40) Intentional fraud, regulation, and meme coins in politics(41:21) Potential solutions and regulatory controls under new administration(50:23) Concerns and proposed framework for crypto regulation(54:52) Importance of regulation and combating crypto fraud(58:18) Coffeezilla's perspective on meme coins and future regulations(1:01:22) Advice to potential crypto investors and FTC news implications(1:02:08) Impact of regulation on American innovation and tech giants' growth(1:05:03) Current administration's stance on business combinations(1:06:10) Arguments against large companies acquiring competitors(1:07:23) Risks and potential benefits of hypothetical acquisitions(1:08:29) Debate on market competition dynamics
*
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Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara,Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta,Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
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Today’s show: IPO shakeups, big AI moves, and essential founder hacks—this episode covers it all. Jason breaks down Robinhood’s 6X stock surge and his strategy for $HOOD, plus the latest on tech IPOs as Turo pulls out and SailPoint surges. We dive into AI’s open-source battle, with X.ai chasing a $10B raise and DeepSeek challenging Hugging Face. And for founders, Jason shares the startup golden rule you should break for success—plus, a brand-new startup idea he’s willing to fund right now.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show.(1:51) The ‘new’ news cycle(2:17) Calming down during chaotic times(4:29) IPO updates: Turo and SailPoint, private equity, public markets, and M&A(9:37) Rental car business & sharing economy job creation
(9:53) Squarespace. Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(12:21) Robinhood's financial performance & fintech resurgence(18:08) NVIDIA's investment in WeRide & self-driving technology(20:02) Paddle. Go to https://www.paddle.com/twist to get started with your exclusive listener fee-free period.
(21:28) Cooking, convenience, DoorDash, Uber, CloudKitchens & startup opportunities(25:45) Smart IoT devices & revisiting the mobile convenience stores idea(29:59) Lemon.io . Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist(33:12) XAI's potential funding & AI's impact on consumer behavior(40:49) Revisiting failed startup ideas & founder hacks(47:18) Customer advisory councils: size, incentives, and roles(52:09) Humanoid robots & market competition in the next decade(58:51) OpenAI model selection & user experience(1:00:56) Founder University pitches compilation(1:13:56) Audience question: Addressing criticism on Trump and Elon Musk(1:17:26) Discussion on Palantir, bias, state of journalism, and investigative reporting
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Thank you to our partners:
(9:53) Squarespace. Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(20:02) Paddle. Go to https://www.paddle.com/twist to get started with your exclusive listener fee-free period.
(29:59) Lemon.io . Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara,Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta,Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
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Today’s show: Jason and Alex cover…TBD
Timestamps:
(0:00) Episode Teaser(1:16) Welcome Alex Wilhelm & Sam Lessin; Slow Ventures Creator Fund(3:49) Significance of the $60M creator-focused fund(5:47) Community-building and product development strategy(7:02) Mr. Beast's success as a case study(9:41) Vanta. Get $1000 off your SOC 2 athttps://www.vanta.com/twist(11:17) Financial structures and strategies in creator investments(14:14) Addressing challenges in creator-focused investing(19:46) Northwest Registered Agent. Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visitnorthwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!(22:24) Startups optimizing operations in challenging climates(24:50) Transition to fusion energy and Helion's technology(27:46) Helion's fusion technology and CEO David Kirtley(29:16) Commercial fusion power timeline(29:43) LinkedIn Ads. Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit athttp://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups(32:12) Fusion energy's market potential and agreements(33:39) Comparing fusion to other energy sources(36:10) Safety and environmental considerations for fusion(43:00) Helion's upcoming milestones and team expansion(44:00) Lon Harris on AI, copyright, and fair use(47:00) Exploring fair use and IP infringement in AI(53:00) Market impact and licensing for AI technologies(56:00) Financial implications for AI and copyright(58:00) Distinguishing personal vs. commercial use of copyrighted material
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Great TWIST interviews:Will Guidara,Eoghan McCabe,Steve Huffman,Brian Chesky,Bob Moesta,Aaron Levie,Sophia Amoruso,Reid Hoffman,Frank Slootman,Billy McFarland
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Today on This Week in Startups: Lon Harris is back, and we’re diving into all things Super Bowl—especially the tech takeover in this year’s commercials. We break down the biggest ad moments, from Squarespace to Uber Eats, Instacart, and even Harrison Ford’s Jeep spot. Plus, we dig into Google Trends after the ChatGPT ad, the unexpected appeal ofThe Banshees of Inisherin, and Matthew McConaughey’s latest move with Salesforce. That’s not all—France is making bold AI moves, OpenAI is getting into chip development, and we’ve got aFounder Fridays competition coming up!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason, Alex and Lon “kick off” the show!(5:09) Breakout Super Bowl commercials(9:23) Rocket's Super Bowl ad and its impact
(10:21)Lemon.io. Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time athttps://Lemon.io/twist(13:00) High-risk hobbies of the rich and famous(15:23) We all loved the new Squarespace ad and its effectiveness(19:07) The appeal of "The Banshees of Inisherin" and ChatGPT Super Bowl ad(20:17) OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first six months athttps://www.openphone.com/twist
(21:34) Google Trends analysis of ChatGPT ad impact(22:19) A look at Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowll half-time show and his popularity(24:15) Rating the ChatGPT Super Bowl ad(31:01) Coda. Empower your startup with Coda’s Team plan for free—get 6 months athttps://www.Coda.io/twist(32:42) Uber Eats and Instacart Super Bowl ads & Harrison Ford's Jeep commercial(39:49) Matthew McConaughey's role with Salesforce and A-list actors in 2025(44:14) France's AI investment and strategy(47:10) AI in customer service and SaaS pricing(52:34) IT unemployment and AI's impact on tech support(56:45) Upcoming earnings reports from key tech companies(1:02:12) OpenAI's custom chip development with TSMC(1:02:35) Founder Fridays: A new initiative for founders and competition format*
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Great TWIST interviews:Will Guidara,Eoghan McCabe,Steve Huffman,Brian Chesky,Bob Moesta,Aaron Levie,Sophia Amoruso,Reid Hoffman,Frank Slootman,Billy McFarland
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Today’s show: Jason and Alex discuss the carried interest tax loophole being in Trump’s crosshairs, a great interview with Orbit Fab and their plans for the industrialization of space, Deel’s $300M secondary and much more!
Timestamps:
(0:00) Episode Teaser(1:30) Introduction and welcome(2:40) AI startups reaching revenue milestones(9:00) Impact of carried interest tax changes
(10:01) Squarespace. Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain athttps://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(11:25) Would ending the carried interest tax loophole hurt startup investing?
(19:17) Atlassian. Head tohttps://www.atlassian.com/software/startups to see if you qualify for 50 free seats for 12 months.(21:18) Introduction of OrbitFab's CEO, Daniel Faber(22:24) OrbitFab's market position, fuel standards, and customer adoption(27:14) Financial and logistical aspects of satellite refueling
(29:27) AdQuick. Visithttps://adquick.com/twist and mention TWIST to get $1000 off your first campaign.(31:03) Technical challenges in space operations and future applications(34:16) Raising capital and company growth in space startups(38:58) Community updates and secondary transactions in the market(49:32) CapBase acquisition by Deal(50:37) UAE-France data center collaboration and energy strategy(54:34) European AI and nuclear advancements(57:14) US tech employment trends and Meta's layoffs(1:00:51) Opportunities for founders and startup support resources
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Thank you to our partners:
(10:01) Squarespace. Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain athttps://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(19:17) Atlassian. Head tohttps://www.atlassian.com/software/startups to see if you qualify for 50 free seats for 12 months.(29:27) AdQuick. Visithttps://adquick.com/twist and mention TWIST to get $1000 off your first campaign.
Great TWIST interviews:Will Guidara,Eoghan McCabe,Steve Huffman,Brian Chesky,Bob Moesta,Aaron Levie,Sophia Amoruso,Reid Hoffman,Frank Slootman,Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters:https://substack.com/@calacanis
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Today’s show: Jason and Alex cover Palantir’s surge (is it all hype?), Temo and Shein and the de minimise loop hole, Uber’s earnings and the future of self-driving technology and much more!
Timestamps:
(0:00) Episode Teaser(1:38) New studio space and remote work productivity challenges(4:02) "Severance" vs. "Landman" - TV shows comparison(7:07) Palantir's valuation, financial performance, and stock analysis(9:49) Gusto. Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://gusto.com/twist
(11:27) Alex Karp talks up Palantir to investors(14:36) Price-sales ratio: Palantir vs. Nvidia and founder advice(19:33) Oracle. TWiST listeners can try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist(21:46) Temu, Shein, and the de minimis loophole in trade(30:06) Horatio. Visit https://www.hirehoratio.com/twist and get $2,000 off your initial set up.(31:34) Uber's earnings, market performance, and self-driving technology future(38:33) Waymo's growth and the commodification of self-driving tech(44:11) Market dominance, platform switching, and competition mental models(47:18) Kalshi, Robinhood, prediction markets, and regulatory challenges(52:17) BYD's self-parking technology and the future of self-driving cars(56:43) Final thoughts and request for startup growth data
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Thank you to our partners:
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Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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OpenAI dropped Deep Research—hilariously, the exact same name as Google’s existing tool. Jason and Alex dive into the AI arms race, break down Lovable.dev’s insane growth to $10M ARR in weeks, and test whether AI can really replace software engineers. Plus, they analyze Trump’s latest tariff chaos and what it means for startups, global trade, and the economy.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show.
(1:09) Jason’s talk and case study at Stanford(2:38) Managing the chaotic news cycle(5:22) NBA trade insights: Luka Doncic and Anthony Davis(7:15) Lovable startup's rapid growth(9:44) Lemon.io. Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist(11:02) Lovable's AI demo and European startup landscape(15:20) Lovable's target market and pricing strategy(19:48) PrizePicks. Run your game. Download the app today and use code TWIST to get $50 instantly after you play your first $5 lineup! Go to: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/TWIST
(21:39) Custom software development's future with AI(23:17) Launching and designing AI-powered apps(27:07) US sovereign wealth funds and crypto regulation(28:56) LinkedIn Ads. Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups(33:42) Creative tax and debt reduction strategies(41:34) Defense spending and OpenAI's new product(46:51) OpenAI's market impact and ethical considerations(53:02) AI's role in content creation and job market(58:13) Venture capital trends and startup ecosystem(1:01:19) DeepSeek's popularity and security concerns(1:03:28) Tariffs, economic impact, and supply chain importance*
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Check out:
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Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
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Today’s show: The AI revolution is about to hit your household—Jason and Alex break down how general-purpose robots, AI-powered chicken coops, and voice clones are redefining daily life and work. They dig into OpenAI’s sky-high valuation, the surprising rise of DeepSeek’s R1 model, and why the AI cost curve is dropping at an insane pace. Plus, the latest on AI hardware, antitrust battles, and why the “No Buy 2025” trend could change how we think about consumer tech.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show.(3:10) Episode topics overview and fan participation(5:48) Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses discussion(9:27) Paddle. Go to https://www.paddle.com/twist to get started with your exclusive listener fee-free period.(11:05) 11 Labs' Series C funding and voice cloning technology(18:09) Automation's impact on jobs and ethical considerations(20:05) Northwest Registered Agent. For just $39 plus state fees, Northwest will handle your complete business identity. Visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today.
(21:22) Market trends towards sustainability and AI in smart chicken coops(27:04) Y Combinator's AI startup focus and investment considerations(29:47) Scalable Path. Get 20% off your first month at https://www.scalablepath.com/twist(31:42) AI in compliance, auditing, and personal staff replacement(35:06) AI development tools, hardware investments, and data trust issues(39:29) AI company valuations, OpenAI's revenue, and AI commoditization(51:04) AI ethics, SoftBank's strategy, and audience questions on AI hardware(59:27) Government AI funding, DOJ suit, and tech industry commoditization(1:09:21) AI advancements, consumer electronics costs, and computing hardware trends(1:12:08) Closing thoughts on technology's impact on life and teaser for next week
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Thank you to our partners:(9:27) Paddle. Go to https://www.paddle.com/twist to get started with your exclusive listener fee-free period.(20:05) Northwest Registered Agent. For just $39 plus state fees, Northwest will handle your complete business identity. Visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today.(29:47) Scalable Path. Get 20% off your first month at https://www.scalablepath.com/twist*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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Today’s show: Jason and Alex cover Jason’s unique sauna experience, leading them to discuss the value of niche communities and supporting small startups, spotlighting Boom Supersonic's achievements and Starlink's aviation collaborations. Financial updates include the Federal Reserve's actions and Trump's public opinion. They analyze the impact of CapEx on tech giants and Meta's AR/VR success. The DeepSeek controversy, OpenAI's intellectual property issues, and AI race risks and opportunities are explored. Jason and Alex conclude with insights on building startups and modern tools for entrepreneurs.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Episode Teaser(1:39) Introduction to the podcast; Jason's sauna experience; GoPolar app(3:41) Niche communities; encouraging small startup projects(10:11) Vanta. Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(13:48) Boom Supersonic's achievements and flight details (18:30) Starlink's role in aviation; Apple collaboration; Helium project
(20:47) Northwest Registered Agent. For just $39 plus state fees, Northwest will handle your complete business identity. Visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today.(24:11) Financial updates; Federal Reserve; Trump's public opinion
(30:14) Scalable Path. Get 20% off your first month at https://www.scalablepath.com/twist(31:57) Federal spending; debt strategies; upcoming tech earnings(37:18) Impact of CapEx on tech giants; Meta's AR/VR success(42:26) DeepSeek controversy; OpenAI's response and IP issues(50:13) AI race risks and opportunities; OpenAI's market position(57:13) Building startups; Founder University; modern tools for startups(1:02:15) Closing remarks; upcoming episodes
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Thank you to our partners:
(10:11) Vanta. Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist(20:47) Northwest Registered Agent. For just $39 plus state fees, Northwest will handle your complete business identity. Visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today.
(30:14) Scalable Path. Get 20% off your first month at https://www.scalablepath.com/twist
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
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Today’s show: A $6M open-source AI model from China, DeepSeek, sends shockwaves through Wall Street, wiping billions off NVIDIA’s market cap and forcing a rethink on AI infrastructure spending. We explore the 25% surge in startup shutdowns, the lessons from leaner teams, and why some companies just couldn’t make the runway. Plus, SailPoint returns to the public markets saddled with $1.6B in debt—what does this say about private equity’s “buy, fix, and flip” strategy? Don’t miss this deep dive into the latest tech and startup news!
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Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show.(1:58) DeepSeek's market impact and Project Stargate(4:18) Innovation, H100 GPUs, and open-source AI models(8:41) Jevons paradox, Pat Gelsinger's analogy, and AI efficiency
(10:03) Northwest Registered Agent. For just $39 plus state fees, Northwest will handle your complete business identity. Visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today.(13:25) AI's benefits for startups and privacy concerns(19:32) Squarespace. TWiST listeners: use code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain: https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(19:51) AI optimization vs. hardware consumption
(22:20) OpenAI's revenue, valuation, and NVIDIA's market value(30:13) LinkedIn Jobs. Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist(33:21) Unified AI digital assistants and DeepSeq's new model(35:01) AI's role in venture capital and team size reduction(41:04) China's influence and DeepSeek's market impact(43:22) Startup shutdowns and potential for increased M&A activity(53:02) Nvidia's historical analysis, risks of leverage, and SailPoint's IPO
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Thank you to our partners:
(10:03) Northwest Registered Agent. For just $39 plus state fees, Northwest will handle your complete business identity. Visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today.(19:32) Squarespace. TWiST listeners: use code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain: https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(30:13) LinkedIn Jobs. Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
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Today’s show: Jason and Alex cover Twilio’s team size compression, DeepSeek’s scary good AI for only $6M and the GameOn fraud saga that sounds too crazy to be true.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Alex and Jason kick off the show(6:27) Rundown of potential topics(7:10) Twilio's team size strategy and AI's impact on workforce
(9:40) Fitbod. Get 25% off your Fitbod subscription or try out the app for FREE when you sign up: fitbod.me/TWIST(14:52) Entrepreneurship in the AI era and automation concerns
(19:30) Squarespace. TWiST listeners: use code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain: https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(22:49) Meta's investment in data centers and surplus compute power
(26:36) Technology’s potential to solve humanity’s problems(30:12) Horatio. Visit https://www.hirehoratio.com/twist and get $2,000 off your initial set up.(32:01) Empathy for workers displaced by automation(34:11) DeepSeq's role in reducing AI industry costs(37:27) Game On startup fraud case and due diligence in startups(53:13) Venture capital's role in startup oversight(55:36) OpenAI's Operator announcement and AI autonomy risks
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Thank you to our partners:
(9:40) Fitbod. Get 25% off your Fitbod subscription or try out the app for FREE when you sign up: fitbod.me/TWIST(19:30) Squarespace. TWiST listeners: use code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain: https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(30:12) Horatio. Visit https://www.hirehoratio.com/twist and get $2,000 off your initial set up.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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Today’s show: Alex covers The Stargate Project, other hot news items, and two great interviews. Created By Humans’ Co-founder Trip Adler talks about the future of copyrights and AI. Gene Berdichevsky, Co-founder and CEO of Sila, discusses the future of batteries and our clean energy future.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Alex kicks off the show.(1:22) Introduction to Mistral's IPO, Anthropic's funding, and Project Stargate(6:01) Market reactions and AI funding landscape(10:19) Gusto. Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://gusto.com/twist(11:35) Tripp Adler discusses AI in literature and Created by Humans(16:20) Authors' concerns and AI companies' reactions(19:42) Netsuite. Download the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine Learning for free at https://www.netsuite.com/twist(20:58) Tripp Adler on AI, copyright, and the future of authorship(27:47) Human-created content symbol and synthetic vs. human data
(29:52) Atlassian. Head to Atlassian.com/Startups/TWiST to see if you qualify for 50 free seats for 12 months.(34:08) Gene Berdichevsky on Sila's battery technology and Titan Silicon anodes(41:29) Battery tech's role in industry transformation and consumer devices(48:25) The impact on renewable energy and grid storage(53:02) Hard tech challenges, fundraising, and IPO considerations(56:38) Netflix's quarterly earnings and tech market forecasts
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Created by Humans:
Website: https://www.createdbyhumans.ai/
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tripadler/
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
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Thank you to our partners:
(10:19) Gusto. Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://gusto.com/twist(19:42) Netsuite. Download the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine Learning for free at https://www.netsuite.com/twist(29:52) Atlassian. Head to Atlassian.com/Startups/TWiST to see if you qualify for 50 free seats for 12 months.
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Jason and Alex explore America's fascination with billionaires and self-made figures, touching on recent events in Washington, DC, and the tech industry's political influence. They discuss Gen X's rising political power, tech CEOs' prominence at inaugurations, and critique Democrats' tech policies. The conversation covers economic factors in elections, like inflation and abortion rights, COVID's origins, immigration policy, and foreign policy. AI regulation under Biden and Trump's economic strategies, including crypto regulations, are debated. They also discuss Trump's impact on M&A, antitrust laws, and the startup ecosystem, with insights on tech IPOs and tax policy.
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Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show.(1:06) Diving into recent DC events and tech's political role(3:13) Gen X's rising political influence and tech CEOs' prominence at inauguration(7:00) Discussion on tech founders' importance and criticism of Democrats' tech stance(10:17) PrizePicks. TWiST listeners, download the app today and use code TWIST to get $50 instantly after you play your first $5 lineup!Go to: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/TWIST PrizePicks - Run your game.(11:35) Economic factors influencing elections: Inflation and abortion rights(17:15) COVID origins investigation and executive orders affecting tech(19:58) OpenPhone. TWiST listeners can get 20% off your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(21:25) Steve Bannon, JD Vance, and immigration policy discussions(23:20) US potential territory expansion and foreign policy(30:23) LinkedIn Jobs. TWiST listeners can post their first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist(32:13) Trump's economic strategies, legacy, and US energy production(41:23) AI and drone technology: Regulation and countermeasures(51:05) Crypto's economic value, personal freedoms, and investment risks(1:01:27) Entrepreneur wellness, Trump's EV policies, and state vs. federal regulation(1:04:23) New admin’s influence on M&A, antitrust laws, and startup ecosystems(1:09:08) Upcoming tech IPOs, tax policy, and regulatory capture discussion
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Thank you to our partners:
(10:17) PrizePicks. TWiST listeners, download the app today and use code TWIST to get $50 instantly after you play your first $5 lineup!Go to: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/TWIST PrizePicks - Run your game.(19:58) OpenPhone. TWiST listeners can get 20% off your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist(30:23) LinkedIn Jobs. TWiST listeners can post their first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
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Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Today’s show: Alex sits down with two CEOs from companies freshly added to the TWIST500. We get a masterclass from Bob van Luijt of Weaviate, on vector databases helping AI and LLMs do what they do. An then Philip Johnston from Lumen Orbit explains his vision of building data centers in space!
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Timestamps:
(0:00) Alex kicks off the show.(0:58) Supreme Court ruling on TikTok and key market numbers(3:49) Interview introduction with Weaviate and Lumen Orbit CEOs(4:06) Deep dive into vector databases with Weaviate's Bob van Luijt.(8:23) Lemon. TWiST listeners get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist(11:35) Exploring deep learning, vector indexing, and Weaviate's open-source significance(18:03) Northwest Registered Agent. For just $39 plus state fees, Northwest will handle your complete business identity. Visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today.
(19:32) Discussion on vector databases use cases and retrieval augmented generation (RAG)(27:17) Weaviate's business model, revenue streams, and growth(28:12) Vanta. TWiST listeners automate your SOC2 and get $1,000 off at http://www.vanta.com/twist(32:52) The future of AI, agentic architectures, and enterprise adoption(40:50) Lumen Orbit's vision for space-based data centers(42:54) Philip Johnston on the technical aspects of Lumen Orbit(49:12) Satellite demonstrators, technology challenges, and VC interest(53:26) Addressing chip obsolescence and cost advantages in space(56:21) Deployment strategies and competition in the space data center market(1:00:12) Strategies for staying ahead of competition and future plans for Lumen Orbit
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(28:12) Vanta. TWiST listeners automate your SOC2 and get $1,000 off at http://www.vanta.com/twist*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
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Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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Today’s show: Jason and Alex interview Aarush Selvan, lead PM at Google Gemini Deep Research, and discuss their groundbreaking work. They also took a moment to cover TikTok’s dire situation and AI investment to start the year.
(0:00) Show Teaser
(1:26) Jason Calacanis shares his Japan skiing experience(6:18) Arush Selvan from Google Gemini team background discussion(9:26) PrizePicks. TWiST listeners, download the app today and use code TWIST to get $50 instantly after you play your first $5 lineup!Go to: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/TWIST PrizePicks - Run your game.(14:23) Deep research demonstration and server resource usage(19:42) Coda. TWiST listeners get 6 months at https://www.Coda.io/twist(22:11) Google's business model and AI-generated research reports(29:55) Fitbod. Get 25% off your Fitbod subscription or try out the app for FREE when you sign up: fitbod.me/TWIST(32:00) Personalized data integration and content permissions in AI tools(34:22) Differentiation and hallucinations in AI-generated content(44:11) Business models for AI search engines and OpenAI's new task feature(54:30) Synthesia's AI-generated video tool demo and privacy in biometric payments(59:36) Investments in AI companies and TikTok's potential ban(1:04:17) Chinese government influence and US rule of law in tech(1:07:29) Irony of migrating to Little Red Book and upcoming inauguration(1:08:02) Staying updated with This Week in Startups
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(9:26) PrizePicks. TWiST listeners, download the app today and use code TWIST to get $50 instantly after you play your first $5 lineup!Go to: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/TWIST PrizePicks - Run your game.(19:42) Coda. TWiST listeners get 6 months at https://www.Coda.io/twist(29:55) Fitbod. Get 25% off your Fitbod subscription or try out the app for FREE when you sign up: fitbod.me/TWIST
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
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Today’s show: Alex covers Mark Zuckerberg’s Joe Rogan interview, OpenAI’s economic pitch and the pending IPO of India’s Groww. Our guests include two companies freshly added to the TWIST500: James Cadwallader from Profound and Martin Rehak from Resistant AI.
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Timestamps:
(0:00) Alex kicks off the show!(2:51) A look at key moments from this week’s Mark Zuckerberg interview on Rogan.(8:08) James Cadwallader, Co-Founder and CEO of Profound join Alex.(10:05) Northwest Registered Agent. For just $39 plus state fees, Northwest will handle your complete business identity. Visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today.(11:23) Comparing Profound’s approach to SEO and looking and how problemism impacts search.
(20:21) Paddle. Go to https://www.paddle.com/twist to get started with your exclusive listener fee-free period.(24:48) Building Profound in NYC, business model, and managing LLM costs(30:51) Squarespace. TWiST listeners: use code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain: https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(32:15) Introduction to Resistant AI's mission and building an AI startup(34:18) Resistant AI's approach to fraud detection and criminal techniques evolution(41:17) Shift in the landscape of digital threats and security solutions ROI(51:39) Synthetic fraud detection demonstration and business growth(58:01) The Biden administration's AI diffusion plan and OpenAI's policy recommendations(1:04:25) Groww: India's largest retail stock broker and tech IPO landscape
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Check out Profound: https://www.tryprofound.com/
Check out Resistant AI: https://resistant.ai/
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Thank you to our partners:
(10:05) Northwest Registered Agent. For just $39 plus state fees, Northwest will handle your complete business identity. Visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today.(20:21) Paddle. Go to https://www.paddle.com/twist to get started with your exclusive listener fee-free period.(30:51) Squarespace. TWiST listeners: use code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain: https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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Today’s show: Jason and Alex cover the LA wildfires and their eventual total cost, as well as the U.S. jobs report and the rise of static team size in tech.
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show.(1:45) Jason’s trip to Japan(3:09) Ski industry disputes and resolutions(9:51) Northwest Registered Agent. For just $39 plus state fees, Northwest will handle your complete business identity. Visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today.(11:07) Ongoing fires in LA, federal aid, and insurance challenges(18:18) Startup Stand Insurance's wildfire risk simulation
(20:18) Atlassian. Head to Atlassian.com/Startups/TWiST to see if you qualify for 50 free seats for 12 months.(24:48) Could people sue the state of California over the wildfires?(29:32) Analysis of California government competence(29:37) LinkedIn Ads. To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups(34:56) Economic impact of job report, inflation, and Trump administration policies(42:31) Inflation's psychological effects and tech industry responses(46:03) Static team size and its effect on the labor market(50:13) Impact of automation and AI on startups and the job market(54:08) TikTok's Supreme Court case begins
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Links to topics that were discussed on the show:
Iwanai Ski Resort: https://iwanairesort.com/
Stand Insurance: https://www.inc.com/bruce-crumley/how-a-startup-plans-to-offer-coverage-to-high-risk-homeowners-dropped-by-big-insurers/91067831
U.S. Jobs Report: https://www.bls.gov/news.release/empsit.nr0.htm
Salesforce Job Freeze: https://www.businesstoday.in/technology/news/story/this-big-tech-company-has-stopped-hiring-coders-due-to-boost-provided-by-ai-460260-2025-01-10
Thank you to our partners:
(9:51) Northwest Registered Agent. For just $39 plus state fees, Northwest will handle your complete business identity. Visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today.(20:18) Atlassian. Head to Atlassian.com/Startups/TWiST to see if you qualify for 50 free seats for 12 months.(29:37) LinkedIn Ads. To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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Today’s show: Jason and Alex discuss Meta’s moderation announcement, Nvidia’s seeming domination in the processor space, Anthropic’s $2B raise and some fun products coming out of CES.
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show.(5:15) Fire in Pacific Palisades and Malibu: Insurance and Startup Opportunities(9:48) Gusto. Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://gusto.com/twist(17:32) Meta's New Content Moderation Strategy and Zuckerberg's Motivations(20:09) Oracle. TWiST listeners can try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist
(22:35) More on Zuck’s motivations and what the new president can do(30:30) Squarespace. TWiST listeners: use code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain:https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(40:26) NVIDIA's AI Supercomputer Chip and Tech Industry Innovations(49:15) Lenovo's Rollable Laptop and Slack's iOS Integration(56:31) BYD's Supercar and Anthropic's Valuation(1:02:45) Jason's Experience with Luxury Japanese Minivans
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Thank you to our partners:
(9:48) Gusto. Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://gusto.com/twist(20:09) Oracle. TWiST listeners can try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist(30:30) Squarespace. TWiST listeners: use code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain:https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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PrizePicks. TWiST listeners, download the app today and use code TWIST to get $50 instantly after you play your first $5 lineup! Go to: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/TWIST PrizePicks - Run your game.
Lemon.io. TWiST listeners get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
Vanta. TWiST listeners automate your SOC2 and get $1,000 off at http://www.vanta.com/twistToday’s show: Jason and Alex cover Sam Altman’s fusion proclamation and the age of abundance we’re approaching, rural investment and subsidies with austerity on the horizon, and applied AI.
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Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show.(1:33) The new interactive live show docket(4:34) The Vail Resorts Epic Pass controversy
(10:16) PrizePicks. TWiST listeners, download the app today and use code TWIST to get $50 instantly after you play your first $5 lineup! Go to: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/TWIST PrizePicks - Run your game.(12:10) Critique of Vail Resorts' management and stock performance(14:39) Sam Altman's interview on fusion energy(18:03) US oil production, energy innovation, and the importance of risk-taking(20:54) Lemon.io. TWiST listeners get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist(23:07) Ro Khanna on rural business subsidies(29:59) Vanta. TWiST listeners automate your SOC2 and get $1,000 off at http://www.vanta.com/twist(31:29) Debating government subsidies and the impact on rural living(35:10) Government debt and austerity measures(39:47) Chinese hacking into US infrastructure and cybersecurity concerns(47:10) China's economic challenges and the importance of domestic production(55:10) SF Smashburger spot review and handling online criticism(1:02:21) Security precautions for public figures and the decline of empathy online
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X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
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Check out the following articles and companies mentioned in the episode:
U.S. State-by-State AI Regulation
UPS Service Centers Close in Rural America
Salt Typhoon Hack (via Washington Post)
Density.io
Deep Sentinel
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Thank you to our partners:
(10:16) PrizePicks. TWiST listeners, download the app today and use code TWIST to get $50 instantly after you play your first $5 lineup! Go to: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/TWIST PrizePicks - Run your game.(20:54) Lemon.io. TWiST listeners get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist(29:59) Vanta. TWiST listeners automate your SOC2 and get $1,000 off at http://www.vanta.com/twist*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
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Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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Todays show: Jason and Alex discuss the over saturation of venture capital, how to fix the high-skill immigration issue, including an interview with Lisa Wehden of Plymouth, and the pressing question of who should buy Lyft?
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the episode(1:56) Jason and Alex discuss their New Year holidays and resolutions(6:25) Jason shares tips for mindfulness and meditation(8:01) Reflecting on family moments and making memories(10:13) Paddle. Go to paddle.com/twist to get started with your exclusive listener fee-free period.
(11:27) Jason and Alex delve into venture capital and Instacart's funding rounds(17:41) Jason announces focus on early-stage investments and Founder University(19:12) Fitbod. Get 25% off your Fitbod subscription or try out the app for FREE when you sign up now at fitbod.me/TWIST.(21:05) Venture capital fundraising concentration and strategy(25:40) Impact of large funds on seed rounds and venture capital immigration(29:08) LinkedIn Ads. Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit: http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups(31:05) Social media weaponization, self-censorship, and high-skilled immigration(36:45) Criticisms, reforms, and solutions to H1B visa issues(45:40) Consultancy costs and Jason's simple solutions for H1B visa reform(50:05) The rise and fall of Bench and Level; predictions for startup failures by 2025(56:21) Potential mergers in on-demand and autonomous sectors; viability of an Amazon-Lyft merger(1:03:08) Expanding the Mag 8 to reduce tech giant dominance(1:04:33) Valuations of major tech companies(1:05:26) Overview and support offerings of Founder University and getstartupcredits.com
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Thank you to our partners:
(10:13) Paddle. Go to paddle.com/twist to get started with your exclusive listener fee-free period.(19:12) Fitbod. Get 25% off your Fitbod subscription or try out the app for FREE when you sign up now at fitbod.me/TWIST.29:08) LinkedIn Ads. Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit: http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Squarespace. TWiST listeners: use code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain:https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
OpenPhone. TWiST listeners can get 20% off your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
Notion: TWiST listeners can try it for free at https://notion.com/twist
Todays show: The 2024 TWISTY Awards are here! Jason and Alex look back at the year and dole out awards for Best CEO, Bag Securer of the Year, and more; plus a look back at the best TWIST moments.
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the episode(1:36) Twisty Awards 2024 Overview(2:06) Breakout Startup of the Year Nominations and Winner(5:53) Pre IPO Startup of the Year Nominations and Winner(10:03) Squarespace. TWiST listeners: use code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain:https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(15:06) Main Character of the Year Nominations and Winner(19:10) Bag Secure of the Year Nominations and Winner
(20:07) OpenPhone. TWiST listeners can get 20% off your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist(22:05) CEO of the Year Discussion (not Elon Musk)(24:43) Twist Interview of the Year Highlight(29:34) Notion: TWiST listeners can try it for free at https://notion.com/twist(31:07) Best Venture Capital Guest Feature(33:32) Defunct Startup of the Year Category(35:46) News Topic of the Year Debate(43:00) Best Tech Product of the Year Nominations(45:07) Funniest Twist Moment of the Year(48:05) Episode of the Year
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Thank you to our partners:
(10:03) Squarespace. TWiST listeners: use code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain:https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(20:07) OpenPhone. TWiST listeners can get 20% off your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist(29:34) Notion: TWiST listeners can try it for free at https://notion.com/twist
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Oracle. TWiST listeners can try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist
DevSquad. TWIST listeners can get 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist
Ramp. TWiST listeners, get $250 when you join Ramp today at https://www.ramp.com/twist
Todays show: Jason & Alex discuss Palantir’s valuation, possible opt-in empire building for the United States and the incoming presidents appointments pulling from tech and VC.
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show(0:22) Approaches to population growth: immigration and opt-in empire building(1:40) Live streaming and show schedule(2:09) Introduction of Alex Wilhelm and seasonal greetings(3:41) Jason's Twitter controversy regarding Palantir(7:06) Palantir's financial analysis and market comparison(10:27) Oracle.TWiST listeners can try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist(13:41) Deeper dive into Palantir's valuation and growth(18:18) Memestock caution and market dynamics(19:03) DevSquad. TWIST listeners can get 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist(20:21) Jeff Bezos' fake wedding and Michael Saylor's Bitcoin strategy(22:17) Cultural takes on weddings and Michael Saylor's media attention(22:55) Defense tech: Palantir and Anduril's consortium(27:18) The rise of entrepreneurs in defense technology(28:45) Ken Howery's ambassadorship and US geopolitical strategies(29:49) Ramp. TWiST listeners, get $250 when you join Ramp today at https://www.ramp.com/twist(31:13) Funding ambassadorships and their significance(34:10) "Opt-in" empire building for US growth(42:40) Government's recent strategic hires(43:45) Evaluating new government hires and their impact(50:30) AI policy advisory and Surem Krishnan's role(56:09) Investment accreditation and securities law evolution(1:02:15) Modernizing securities laws for new assets(1:03:59) Emil Michael appointed under secretary for research and engineering(1:06:45) Michael Kratzios and emerging technology assistance
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Thank you to our partners:
(10:27) Oracle. TWiST listeners can try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist(19:03) DevSquad. TWIST listeners can get 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist(29:49) Ramp. ****TWiST listeners, get $250 when you join Ramp today at https://www.ramp.com/twist
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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PrizePicks - Run your game. THE BEST place to get real money action while watching your favorite sports! Download the app today and use code TWIST to get $50 instantly after you play your first $5 lineup!
Todays show:Jason & Alex chat with Varun Mohan, founder & CEO of Codeium, the revolutionary AI-powered coding platform backed by Kleiner Perkins & Founders Fund. Varun shares insights on pivoting to greatness, scaling enterprise solutions, and launching Codeium's new IDE, Windsurf.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show(0:30) Failure examples and Star Wars character confusion(1:38) Introduction to the episode, guests, and Perplexity AI(4:36) Varun Mohan and Codium's journey in AI and IDE development(11:01) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(12:29) The challenge of moderate success and building 10x better experiences(19:48) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups(21:21) Alex Wilhelm's Cascade demo and Codium's capabilities(24:49) Codium's pricing and the future of no code development(31:45) PrizePicks - Run your game. Download the app today and use code TWIST to get $50 instantly after you play your first $5 lineup!(33:31) Satya Nadella on SaaS's future and AI replacing agents(36:00) AI's impact on developer jobs, salaries, and remote work(41:27) Elite developers, hiring strategies, and in-person vs. remote work(46:03) Twist 500, upcoming events, and what VCs seek in startups(53:02) Hyper competition in AI services and niche market strategies(58:26) Audience Q&A and closing remarks
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Check out: https://codeium.com
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Thank you to our partners:
(11:01) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(19:48) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(31:45) PrizePicks - Run your game. Download the app today and use code TWIST to get $50 instantly after you play your first $5 lineup!
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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Todays show:
Alex and Jason discuss Databricks’ record raise, TikTok’s big day at the Supreme Court, Shishir Mehrotra on the Coda-Grammarly merger, and more.
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Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show(3:38) Insights on Databricks' private fundraise and venture capital trends(8:37) Predictions on unlimited free energy, water, and food
(9:41) Coda - Empower your startup with Coda’s Team plan for free—get 6 months at https://www.Coda.io/twist(14:25) The declining costs of cloud computing(17:12) Evaluating growth rate for startup valuations(19:46) Competitive landscape: Databricks vs. Snowflake
(20:48) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist22:07 The strategic importance of selecting the right customers26:34 Venture capital communication and the ghosting phenomenon28:43 TikTok's ongoing legal challenges
(31:25) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://gusto.com/twist(32:33) Shashir Mehrotra on the Coda-Grammarly merger(37:16) Vision and applications of the Coda-Grammarly partnership(42:35) Future of AI agents and Grammarly's role(45:13) SaaS industry dynamics and AI's role in upselling(49:10) The impact of AI on job automation and workforce productivity(54:40) Team sizes and AI-driven productivity debate(57:18) The future interaction with AI agents(1:00:40) Efficiency gains from combining Grammarly and Coda(1:02:02) The role of ChatGPT and AI in social media(1:03:46) Tailoring AI tools for business needs(1:06:26) Lessons from mergers and acquisitions in the tech sector(1:08:08) Strategic acquisitions and their importance in the tech industry
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Thank you to our partners:
(9:41) Coda - Empower your startup with Coda’s Team plan for free—get 6 months at https://www.Coda.io/twist
(20:48) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(31:25) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://gusto.com/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Sunny kick off the show
(1:26) Discussing Groq's recent developments and Middle East tech inspiration(3:51) Global business challenges and Jason's 2025 announcements(7:53) Gemini app demo and ChatGPT 4 comparison
(9:57) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(11:24) Evaluating ChatGPT 4.0 Pro limitations and robo-taxi fleet costs(12:46) Differences between ChatGPT models and future improvements
(19:57) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(20:58) LLM focus shift and robo taxi cost model experimentation(23:01) Importance of prompt engineering in AI tools adoption(25:31) Workplace AI adoption challenges and generational tech differences(27:22) New productivity hacks and Gemini app's growth
(30:27) Zendesk - Get six months free at https://www.zendesk.com/twist(34:06) Startup support programs and Google Gemini's research capabilities(37:08) AI model performance evaluation and simplification(45:02) Meta's Llama 3.370b launch and AI industry impact(46:37) Infrastructure costs, competitive landscape, and AI-generated content evolution(55:44) Trust and bias in language models, news analysis startup ideas*
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Mentioned on the show:
Check out Sora here: https://sora.com/
Check out Kling here: https://klingai.com/
Check out Groq: https://groq.com/
*
Follow Sunny:
X: https://x.com/sundeep
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sundeepm
*
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X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
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Thank you to our partners:
(9:57) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(19:57) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(30:27) Zendesk - Get six months free at https://www.zendesk.com/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show(3:03) Government reactions to drone sightings(4:02) Theories and politicians' reactions to the drones(9:21) Ramp. Get $250 when you join Ramp today at https://www.ramp.com/twist.(10:48) Official statements on drone sightings(13:34) Speculation on drones' radiation detection capabilities(15:20) TikTok insights and Swiss startup Arctis Radiation Detectors(20:21) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist(21:52) Personal reactions and media aspects of drone sightings(26:12) Startups in drone detection and geopolitical implications(30:36) DigitalOcean. DigitalOcean is the cloud platform you need to turn your AI project into a rocket ship. Right now, approved listeners can get up to $100,000 in free credits to try us out. Visit https://www.do.co/twist - get started and view terms and conditions.(32:23) American Security Drone Act of 2023 and government coordination(39:01) Nicole Wischoff joins Alex and Jason.(40:28) Startup pitches and trend discussions(46:14) Investment strategies and AI's impact on startups(51:10) Market dynamics in various industries(52:09) Fundraising strategies and venture capital insights(57:56) Closing thoughts with Nicole Wischoff(58:05) Venture capital performance metrics(1:00:39) Challenges for large venture funds
*
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Mentioned on the show:Check out Wischoff Ventures: https://www.wischoff.com/
Robin Radar Systems: https://www.robinradar.com/
Arktis Radiation Detectors: https://www.arktis-detectors.com/
ApolloShield: https://www.apolloshield.com/
John Ferguson’s full post: https://www.instagram.com/thegardenstate/reel/DDnmN8oRw3T/
American Security Drone Act Of 2023: https://smartpay.gsa.gov/resources/american-security-drone-act/#:~:text=On December 22%2C 2023%2C the,Fiscal Year 2024 (NDAA)
*
Follow Nicole:
X: https://x.com/NWischoff
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholewischoff
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:21) Ramp. Get $250 when you join Ramp today at https://www.ramp.com/twist.
(20:21) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist
(30:36) DigitalOcean. DigitalOcean is the cloud platform you need to turn your AI project into a rocket ship. Right now, approved listeners can get up to $100,000 in free credits to try us out. Visit https://www.do.co/twist - get started and view terms and conditions.
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
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Todays show:
Alex Wilhelm kicks off the show with Cyera’s Yotam Segev to dive into the state of enterprise data security. They discuss Cyera’s impressive feat of raising $300 million just quarters after its previous mega-round and explore the company's recent nine-figure acquisition of Trail Security. Next, Alex unpacks ServiceTitan's successful IPO and Broadcom's milestone achievement of reaching a $1 trillion market cap. To close, Cake Equity’s Kim Hansen joins the conversation to share insights into his company’s growth strategy and how it’s thriving in a highly competitive market.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Alex kicks off the show
(2:12) Cyera’s Yotam Seveg joins the show
(10:05) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
(11:34) Evolution from information security to cybersecurity and automated data categorization
(20:44) Cyera's acquisition strategy and impact on the company
(28:00) Washington Post - TWiST listeners can subscribe for just 50 cents per week for your first year at https://www.washingtonpost.com/twist
(29:10) AI's impact on data security and competition in the cybersecurity market
(34:19) ServiceTitan IPO, market reaction, and implications for the industry
(37:34) Beehiiv - Get 30 days free and 20% off your first 3 months at https://www.beehiiv.com/twist
(39:05) Tech companies reaching significant market caps and IPO performances
(47:17) Texas attorney general's lawsuit against tech companies over data practices
(48:21) Cake Equity’s Kim Hansen joins the show
(49:02) Cake Equity's mission, platform, and cap table management software demo
(54:29) Cake Equity's user interface, employee engagement, and expansion plans
(58:22) Automation in onboarding and international growth challenges for Cake Equity
*
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Mentioned on the show:
https://www.cyera.io
https://www.cakeequity.com
*
Follow Yotam:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yotam-segev
*
Follow Kim:
X: https://x.com/KimHansenYeah
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimhansencake
*
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X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
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X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:05) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
(28:00) Washington Post - TWiST listeners can subscribe for just 50 cents per week for your first year at https://www.washingtonpost.com/twist
(37:34) Beehiiv - Get 30 days free and 20% off your first 3 months at https://www.beehiiv.com/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
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Todays show:
In the latest edition of Startup Finance Basics, Jason sits down with Scott Orn from Kruze Consulting to answer thesix most important founder/startup questions around finance, accounting, and taxes.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Kruze COO, Scott Orn, joins Jason to dive into Finance Basics FAQs.
(1:05) How can I avoid paying payroll tax as a startup founder?
(6:54) How do you shut down a startup?
(11:33) Why do I owe Delaware $50,000 in franchise taxes?
(12:58) I’ve got my first customer lined up! How do I get paid?
(16:26) Can I tell VCs that implementation revenue is ARR?
(19:59) Should I raise venture debt when I raise my Series A?
*
Check out Kruze: https://kruzeconsulting.comCheck out more Finance Basics here: THISWEEKINSTARTUPS.COM/basics
*
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Follow Scott:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottorn
X: https://twitter.com/scottorn
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
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Todays show:
Alex Wilhelm joins Jason to discuss the reporting that Tiger Global's 2021-era fund is not only posting poor results, it's lagging peers from the same timeframe. Then, the pair also interview Suvir Wadhwa, founder and CEO of Flite, a former Launch accelerator company, and dug into the Cruise-GM news along with a peek at the next head of the FTC.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(2:19) Tiger Global's investment strategy and performance
(5:49) Challenges of quick capital deployment and market timing
(10:13) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(11:15) Impact of losing key investors or advisors on startups
(12:24) Public market trends affecting private investments
(16:09) Market downturns' effects on startups and investors
(20:05) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(21:16) Political influences on market and technology sectors
(29:32) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech(31:10) Trump administration's business policies and immigration
(38:20) Changes in the FTC leadership and impacts on startups
(41:40) Finix's addition to the TWiST500
(44:53) GM's scale-back on Cruise and future implications
(51:25) Self-driving technology's impact on car ownership
(52:39) Flite's Suvir Wadhwa joins the show
(54:18) Flite's business model, AI benefits, and market reach
*
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Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
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Mentioned on the show:
Check out Flite: https://www.flite.city/
Check out the TWiST500: https://www.twist500.com/
Check out Tiger Global: https://www.tigerglobal.com/
Check out E1207: How Tiger Global is outpacing VC with fast, cheap capital ft. Founders Fund’s Everett Randle: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=koDKxjHe_Kk
*
Follow Suvir:
X: https://x.com/suvirwadhwa
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suvirwadhwa/
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:13) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(20:05) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(29:32) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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Oracle - Oracle Cloud Infrastructure, or OCI, is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. Save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Lon Harris kick off the show
(2:06) Welcome back to Lon Harris and discussion on current events
(6:04) Drones in New Jersey: Security issues and speculations on their origin
(11:01) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(13:04) Privacy concerns surrounding drone technology(15:27) The future of drone delivery services(19:32) OpenAI's launch of the video generation tool, Sora
(20:04) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(21:34) The emergence of new mediums from AI tools
(31:04) Oracle - Try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist(32:28) Startup of the Day: Remento(43:06) Uber's milestone and the future of ride-sharing(51:14) Alex Gumbel from Quby Technologies joins the TWIST500(56:00) Economics of mobile micro factories and deskilling labor in home construction(1:04:09) Market demand and strategic focus in construction innovation(1:07:10) Business model, customer base, and production goals for Qubii Technologies(1:11:11) Challenges and future prospects in the construction industry
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
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Mentioned on the show:
Check out OpenAI’s Sora: https://sora.com/
Check out Cuby: https://www.cubytechnologies.com/
Check out Remento: https://www.remento.co/
*
Follow Lon:
X: https://x.com/Lons
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lonharris
*
Follow Aleks:
X: https://x.com/agampel1
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamaleksandrgampel
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(11:01) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(20:04) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(31:04) Oracle - Try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
v
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Ramp. The corporate card and spend management software designed to help you save time and money. Get $250 when you join Ramp today at https://www.ramp.com/twist
Zendesk. The best customer experiences are built with Zendesk. Qualifying startups can join their Startup program and get Zendesk products free, for six months! Visit http://www.zendesk.com/twist today to get started.
Digital Ocean. Whether you’re just getting started with AI, or seeing your project take off, DigitalOcean is the cloud platform that lets you focus on what matters: building killer apps. Right now get up to $100k in free credits at https://www.do.co/twist. Terms and conditions apply.
*
Todays show:
Anthony Pompliano joins Jason and Alex to discuss crypto markets, Bitcoin's future, and Michael Saylor's Bitcoin strategy. Then, they dive into Reddit's new Q&A feature, SEC shifts, and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(7:36) Anthony Pompliano joins the show
(9:55) Ramp. Get $250 when you join Ramp today at https://www.ramp.com/twist
(11:48) Impact of new administration on Bitcoin and crypto markets
(19:58) Concerns from OG Bitcoiners and Bitcoin as a marketing tool
(20:38) Zendesk - Get six months free at http://www.zendesk.com/twist
(22:07) Michael Saylor's Bitcoin strategy and historical trade comparisons
(27:17) Risks of MicroStrategy's Bitcoin holdings and price volatility
(30:15) DigitalOcean. DigitalOcean is the cloud platform you need to turn your AI project into a rocket ship. Right now, approved listeners can get up to $100,000 in free credits to try us out. Visit https://www.do.co/twist - get started and view terms and conditions.
(31:47) Bitcoin yield, new metrics, and investment advice
(39:48) Rationality and risk in Bitcoin investment and audience engagement
(47:23) SEC accreditation, private investment funds, and the Brian Thompson case
(1:01:56) Reddit's new Q&A feature, “Reddit Answers”
(1:12:05) Kids Online Safety Act and social media regulation
*
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Follow Anthony:
X: https://x.com/APompliano
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonypompliano
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
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X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:55) Ramp. Get $250 when you join Ramp today at https://www.ramp.com/twist
(20:38) Zendesk - Get six months free at http://www.zendesk.com/twist
(30:15) DigitalOcean. DigitalOcean is the cloud platform you need to turn your AI project into a rocket ship. Right now, approved listeners can get up to $100,000 in free credits to try us out. Visit https://www.do.co/twist - get started and view terms and conditions.
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Todays show:
In this episode, we discuss Hailey Welch and the viral Hawk coin, then discuss David Sachs' new White House role and recent job data's economic impact. We address the United Healthcare CEO's murder, debate cancel culture, and a viral tweet on software engineers' habits. Deedy Das offers insights on tech inefficiencies and the shift to in-person work. Coffeezilla joins to explore crypto scams, influencer marketing ethics, and regulation. We wrap up with David Sachs' Czar role in AI and crypto for the US government, market dynamics, and a new addition to the Twist 500.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(1:53) Economic outlook and recent job data(5:12) Reaction to United Healthcare CEO murder
(9:19) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(10:48) Cancel culture debate and public statements(16:00) Viral tweet about software engineers' work habits
(19:02) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(20:08) DeeDee Doss interview on software engineer productivity(23:17) Management incentives and tech company inefficiencies(25:16) Shift to in-person work in tech startups
(29:37) Ramp - Get $250 when you join Ramp today at https://www.ramp.com/twist(31:20) Remote work psychology and potential abuse(37:35) Strategies to prevent remote work abuse(39:24) Hayley Welch interview on viral meme coin(41:00) Coffeezilla's investigations into scams and frauds(47:42) Cryptocurrency red flags and influencer consequences(52:50) Crypto regulation and influencer marketing ethics(59:03) Influencer credibility and responsibility(1:03:21) Coffeezilla's assignment and Rabbit AI device insights(1:04:01) David Sachs announcement and AI/crypto in government(1:07:25) Regulatory capture and Silicon Valley dynamics(1:09:15) Market perspectives and government influence
*
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Apply for the Launch CloudKitchens Incubator here: https://ck.launch.co
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
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*
Mentioned on the show:
Check on Menlo Ventures: https://menlovc.com/
Check out Coffeezilla: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFQMnBA3CS502aghlcr0_aw
*
Follow Coffeezilla:
X: https://x.com/coffeebreak_YT
*
Follow Deedy:
X: https://x.com/deedydas
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debarghyadas/
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:19) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(19:02) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(29:37) Ramp - Get $250 when you join Ramp today at https://www.ramp.com/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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Todays show:
In the latest edition of Startup Finance Basics, Jason sits down with Scott Orn from Kruze Consulting to tackle essential year-end planning for startups. "Year-End Planning: Setting Your Startup Up for Success," covers crucial topics like assessing next year's fundraising needs, crafting an operating plan, preparing for taxes and compliance, and more. Don't miss these practical tips to ensure your startup is ready to thrive in the new year!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Kruze COO, Scott Orn, joins Jason
(2:17) Evaluate Your Fundraising Needs for Next Year
(7:05) Financial Statement Review and Clean-up
(8:34) Set High-Level Goals and Strategy
(11:27) Cost Optimization Review
(13:39) Create Next Year's Operating Plan
(17:19) Tax and Compliance Planning
(19:02) Team and Equity Management
(20:22) Cash Management Strategy
*
Check out Kruze: https://kruzeconsulting.comCheck out more Finance Basics here: THISWEEKINSTARTUPS.COM/basics
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*
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*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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Todays show:
Alex Wilhelm joins Jason to discuss breaking news on Paul Atkins and SEC leadership transitions into discussions on corporate security concerns. Then, Mike Sherbakov and Herbert Dwyer share insights on veteran leadership and EMPEQ's equipment management technology. The conversation highlights technology applications in military contexts and Empeq's dual-use tech. The episode also covers SaaS growth, touches on crypto's influence on elections, economic growth, and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(1:54) Paul Atkins and SEC leadership
(6:36) Corporate security concerns
(12:18) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://gusto.com/twist
(13:24) Mike Sherbakov and Herbert Dwyer join the show
(20:37) Herbert Dwyer on EMPEQ
(24:21) Fundrise - Sign up today at https://www.fundrise.com/TWIST
(25:44) Technology applications in military and equipment management
(30:15) SaaS growth, funding, and customer profiles
(34:42) EMPEQ's dual-use technology and contact information
(36:33) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist
(38:01) Launch CloudKitchens incubator and food delivery tech
(44:28) Twist 500 database and Hugging Face spotlight
(53:07) Live events for Twist 500 and EU startup culture
(1:02:28) Crypto's impact on elections and economic growth
(1:17:02) Safety nets and basic needs in capitalism
*
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(12:18) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://gusto.com/twist
(24:31) Fundrise - Sign up today at https://www.fundrise.com/TWIST
(36:33) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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*
Todays show:
Jason and Alex discuss Michael Saylor’s pitch for Microsoft to shift shareholder returns into Bitcoin, the Delaware court's ruling on Tesla pay, and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(7:41) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(8:47) Michael Saylor's Bitcoin Pitch to Microsoft
(24:01) The Digital Transformation through Bitcoin
(29:46) NetSuite - Download the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine Learning for free at https://www.netsuite.com/twist
(30:47) Bitcoin as an investment compared to traditional assets
(38:01) Michael Saylor’s take on Bitcoin's investment potential
(39:40) Micro1 - Visit https://www.micro1.ai/twist to get 10 free AI Interviews and 2 weeks free per hire
(41:19) Asset-heavy vs. asset-light business models
(57:46) Tesla compensation package and Delaware court ruling
(1:03:56) Delaware Judicial System and Corporate Governance
(1:19:00) Corporate incorporation trends
*
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Mentioned on the show:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1l45B4mYl-o
https://x.com/saylor/status/1863323760511627565
*
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X: https://x.com/alex
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(7:41) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(29:46) NetSuite - Download the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine Learning for free at https://www.netsuite.com/twist
(39:40) Micro1 - Visit https://www.micro1.ai/twist to get 10 free AI Interviews and 2 weeks free per hire
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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Notion. Notion combines your notes, docs, and projects into one beautifully designed space with AI built right in. Try it for free today at https://notion.com/twist
*
Todays show:
In today’s episode, Jason and Alex explored the curious return of Enron, the latest developments in Bitcoin and MicroStrategy, and the evolving cryptocurrency landscape. They closed with an analysis of China's uneven investment climate and its effects on venture capital activity.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(2:30) Hunter Biden's pardon and implications for presidential power
(7:51) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(9:31) Enron's return and potential crypto play
(14:47) Crypto regulation changes under the new administration
(24:43) Investment strategies in Bitcoin and the impact of hiring decisions
(26:51) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
(28:25) Michael Saylor and MicroStrategy's strategy on Bitcoin
(37:31) Notion - Try it for free today at https://notion.com/twist
(39:22) Diversification in investments and Michael Saylor's promotional tactics
(43:28) NFTs vs. traditional investments
(46:47) Sequoia's global deals search
(55:11) Consumer confidence, US and China economies, and debt discussion
(1:02:09) Nearshoring trend, credit card delinquencies, and potential bankruptcies
(1:06:02) Bernie Sanders' stance on defense spending and populism
(1:08:02) Dogecoin leaderboard
(1:17:07) Bitcoin predictions and Bitcoin valuation
*
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(26:51) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
(37:31) Notion - Try it for free today at https://notion.com/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Todays show:
Jason and Alex welcomed Alex Kendall to the show. He's the founder and CEO of Wayve, an AI company working on self-driving. You might recall that Wayve raised $1 billion earlier this year, but TWIST wanted to know how the company intends to commercialize -- and how soon. From there, it was back to the bitcoin mines. Figuratively, as the hosts dug into MicroStrategies' bitcoin buying bet. Precisely why it is trading at such a NAV premium remains occluded to the show, but we did chase down its debt terms. Next week: More TWiST500!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(2:32) Introduction of guest Alex Kendall Co-Founder & CEO of Wayve(3:00) Alex Kendall on Wayve's autonomous driving approach and AI technology(8:29) LiDAR vs. camera-first solutions debate
(10:19) Cloud Devs - Visit https://www.clouddevs.com/twist for an unbeatable offer on hiring elite Latam talent today.
(12:23) Economic viability and strategy of autonomous vehicles(17:49) Timeline for Wave's technology deployment and future market scenarios
(19:58) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(22:34) Autonomy subscription models and AI driving behavior challenges
(30:01) Kyte - Download the Kyte app today and use code JASON to save 10% on your first rental.
(33:00) AI driving culture and Twist 500 update(37:05) MicroStrategy's Bitcoin strategy and market concerns(41:33) Bitcoin convertible debt analysis(49:03) Deciphering complex business models and historical examples(51:24) Evaluating new financial terms and investor advice(52:29) Final thoughts and invitation to Michael Saylor
*
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Mentioned on the show:
Check out Wayve: https://wayve.ai/Check out MicroStrategy: https://www.microstrategy.com/TWiST Episode #1251 with Do Kwon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PLZL8iPKsHQ
*
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*
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Follow Jason:
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*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:19) Cloud Devs - Visit https://www.clouddevs.com/twist for an unbeatable offer on hiring elite Latam talent today.
(19:58) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(30:01) Kyte - Download the Kyte app today and use code JASON to save 10% on your first rental.
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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*
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
DevSquad. Most dev agencies only offer developers. Why? Because product management is hard. Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at https://devsquad.com/twist
*
Todays show:
Jason and Alex are joined by Dune's CEO to discuss wealth taxes and their impact on startups, highlighting the need for nations to support digital innovation. Then, they dive into MicroStrategy's Bitcoin strategy, OpenAI's browser plans, and the 2025 IPO class, including excitement for CoreWeave's debut!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(6:07) Impact of taxes on startup formation and Norway's economic background
(10:17) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(11:53) Norway's wealth tax implications and policy changes
(18:09) Exodus of top taxpayers and the paradox of Norway's wealth tax
(20:14) Wall of shame for tax critics
(27:41) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(28:41) Dune Analytics' revenue growth and new index product launch
(36:47) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at https://devsquad.com/twist
(38:15) Michael Saylor and MicroStrategy's Bitcoin investment strategy
(49:01) Market irrationality and risks associated with Bitcoin investments
(55:01) Crypto wealth diversification and new investment structures
(1:02:20) OpenAI's new browser project and its impact on search
(1:05:51) Increasing reliance on browsers and Bluesky's potential
(1:15:37) CoreWeave's IPO and the future of GPU clouds
(1:18:22) Bitcoin market dynamics and predictions
*
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Mentioned on the show:
https://www.microstrategy.com/press/microstrategy-announces-third-quarter-2024-financial-results-and-announces-42-billion-capital-plan_10-30-2024
https://x.com/ASvanevik/status/1857568015929455050/photo/1
https://bsky.jazco.dev/stats
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=2550877
http://launch3.squarespace.com/blog/l019-bitcoin-p2p-currency-the-most-dangerous-project-weve-ev.html;jsessionid=EE99D323A0E532A507C8E2CD1EF05BAF.v5-web008
*
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Check out Dune: https://dune.com
*
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X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:17) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(27:41) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(36:47) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at https://devsquad.com/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
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*
Todays show:
Alex is joined by Joff Redfern and Derek Xiao of Menlo Ventures to discuss the significant role AI plays in modern workflows. We look behind the numbers of their recent report: “2024: The State of Generative AI in the Enterprise” while exploring AI spending trends in enterprises, with a focus on its impact on the healthcare and legal sectors. The conversation highlights popular AI use cases, the role of large language models in content creation, and workflow automation. We delve into advances in generative AI applications, enterprise spending, strategies for AI startups, training AI for market verticals, and the future of artificial general intelligence.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Joff Redfern and Derek Xiao join Alex
(4:08) Yahoo's evolution and Anthropic's recent funding(6:23) AI spending trends in enterprises
(10:14) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(12:20) AI's impact on healthcare and legal sectors and its rapid adoption(19:25) Popular AI use cases in enterprises
(20:56) Zendesk - Get six months free at https://www.zendesk.com/startups
(23:17) The role of LLMs in content creation and workflow automation(27:04) Advances in generative AI applications and agentic systems
(30:43) Beehiiv - Get 30 days free and 20% off your first 3 months at https://www.beehiiv.com/twist
(32:14) Enterprise generative AI spend, ROI, and budget expansion(38:45) Selecting generative AI tools and AI-first startup opportunities(47:43) Competition and strategies for AI startups(50:10) Training AI for market verticals and the future of AGI(53:03) Recap of enterprise AI spend and trends
*
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*
Links from the show:Check out Menlo Ventures: https://menlovc.com/Menlo’s report “2024: The State of Generative AI in the Enterprise”: https://menlovc.com/2024-the-state-of-generative-ai-in-the-enterprise/
*
Follow Joff:
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*
Follow Derek:
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*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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*
Todays show:
Jason and Alex kick off the show with a deep dive into Nvidia’s blowout earnings and the skyrocketing demand for its upcoming Blackwell chips. Meanwhile, Google’s search monopoly took center stage as proposed remedies, including a potential Chrome divestment, sparked heated debate. To unpack the implications, Brave’s Jean-Paul Schmetz joined the discussion, offering insights into the fight for search independence. The episode wrapped up with updates from three Founder Friday hosts, sharing what they’re hearing from the builders shaping the future.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(3:20) Google's antitrust case and DOJ's proposed remedies
(5:22) Nvidia's market performance and AI chip competition
(7:00) Nvidia's Blackwell architecture and AI advancements
(9:45) Ramp. Get $250 when you join Ramp today at https://www.ramp.com/twist.
(11:13) Google's advertising market dominance and Chrome divestiture
(21:00) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist
(22:50) DOJ's negotiation strategy with Google
(25:50) Brave browser's business model, competition, and privacy focus
(31:00) DigitalOcean - DigitalOcean is the cloud platform you need to turn your AI project into a rocket ship. Right now, approved listeners can get up to $100,000 in free credits to try us out. Visit https://www.do.co/twist - get started and view terms and conditions.
(32:13) Brave's search engine development and DOJ's impact
(40:26) AI's role in search technology and the future of browsers
(44:08) DOJ's remedies and their effect on smaller search engines
(46:22) Google's growth strategies and M&A outlook
(51:03) Founder culture, motivation, and Founder Fridays initiative
(58:50) Founder Fridays host Georges Colbert joins the show
(1:06:12) Founder Fridays experiences in Longview, Texas with Kitty and Coco
(1:15:09) Endora's success and advice for Founder Fridays hosts
*
Want to host or join the next Founder Fridays? Check out https://www.founderfridays.tech
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Mentioned on the show:Check out Albetroz: https://albatroz.ai/
Check out Endora: https://www.endora.app/
Check out Brave: https://search.brave.com/
https://www.reuters.com/technology/artificial-intelligence/microsoft-backed-startup-d-matrix-launches-first-ai-chip-2024-11-19
https://x.com/Jason/status/1859630517894983977
https://blog.google/outreach-initiatives/public-policy/doj-search-remedies-nov-2024
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Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
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Todays show:
Jason and Alex dig into why Nvidia's latest earnings report is such a big deal, and how the chip giant could help keep the AI hype alive. Or, how it could poke a hole in market enthusiasm. The pair also welcome the CEO of Allen Control Systems to discuss building venture-backed defense companies. Then, the CEO of Querio joins the show to show off what his company has built.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(1:32) Nvidia’s expected $33B revenue and its transition from gaming GPUs to AI workloads.
(9:01) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(10:05) Nvidia’s growth over time
(15:55) When will an Nvidia lighthouse customer switch to a competitor’s product?
(22:28) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(23:28) Allen Control Systems’ Steven Simoni joins the show
(32:38) Sprig - Visit https://www.sprig.com/twist to book a demo and get a $75 gift card.
(33:52) The rise of venture-backed defense startups and autonomous systems for military applications
(50:20) Querio’s Rami Abi Habib joins the show
(55:38) Demo of Querio’s platform
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Mentioned on the show:
Check out Allen Control Systems: https://www.allencontrolsystems.com
Check out Querio: https://querio.ai
*
Follow Steven:
X: https://x.com/stevensimoni
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/datarami
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Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
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Todays show:
Spenser Skates and James Evans join Alex to discuss Amplitude's acquisition of Command AI, shedding light on recent startup M&A trends and the strategic vision behind this move. The conversation delves into Command AI's user assistance technology and its integration into Amplitude, which aims to enhance user surveys and feedback. Spenser outlines Amplitude's product-led growth strategy and its approach to scaling through acquisitions while managing risks and ensuring cultural alignment. The discussion also covers the acquisition deal structure, regulatory concerns, and the decision-making process between raising funds and selling. Also, we hear Spenser’s unfiltered take on private equity and regulatory oversight!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Spenser Skates of Amplitude & James Evans of CommandAI join Alex.
(1:40) Startup M&A trends and Amplitude's acquisition of Command AI
(4:30) Overview of Command AI's user assistance technology
(7:05) Integration and benefits of Command AI within Amplitude
(10:17) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(11:45) Enhancements in user surveys and feedback with Command AI
(16:58) Amplitude's strategic vision behind acquiring Command AI
(20:22) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://gusto.com/twist
(21:28) Product-led growth and enhancing user experience at Amplitude
(26:08) Amplitude's approach to scaling through strategic acquisitions
(30:01) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist
(31:30) Managing acquisition risks, integration, and cultural alignment
(35:19) Acquisition discussions and deal negotiation
(39:48) Acquisition deal structure and stakeholder conviction
(42:08) Addressing regulatory concerns and valuation mismatches in acquisitions
(44:20) Decision-making: Raising funds vs. selling a company
(46:00) Post-acquisition: Integrating Command AI's technology
(49:37) Amplitude's future growth strategy and leadership
(54:00) Transition from founder mode to distributed leadership
(56:15) Role of AI in Amplitude's product development
(59:44) AI model considerations and financial sustainability in B2B software
(1:01:34) Market position and growth of Command AI
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Mentioned on the show:
Check out Amplitude: https://amplitude.com
Check out CommandAI: https://www.command.ai
*
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-evans-7086b3126/
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(30:01) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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Todays show:
Alex Wilhelm joins Jason to discuss Netflix's 'fight' night, exploring content rights, media models, and the fragmentation of sports. They then covered Brendan Carr's promotion to FCC chair, a win for satellite Internet but raising concerns about business interference. The conversation shifted to global social media regulation before examining the tech community's excitement about Emil Michael potentially leading the Department of Transportation.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(1:14) Netflix's live event issues and potential in sports streaming
(6:28) The growing intersection of professional wrestling, sports betting, and viewership
(10:03) Evolving business models in streaming: Advertising vs. subscription
(11:55) Coda - Get a $1,000 startup credit at https://coda.io/twist
(13:49) The future landscape of sports streaming rights and network deals
(17:17) Maintaining editorial independence in media companies
(20:24) Analyzing NFL viewership trends and their influence on television
(21:11) Netflix's content strategy and Amazon Prime's new ad policies
(23:10) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(24:39) AI, monetization, and the move towards ad-free experiences
(27:49) Exploring the viability of Netflix hosting pay-per-view events
(33:52) Brendan Carr's FCC chairmanship and the future of rural broadband
(38:22) The role of the free market in social media platform regulations
(32:21) Kyte - Download the Kyte app today and use code JASON to save 10%on your first rental.
(45:02) Political shifts and their impact on tech and social media
(49:50) TikTok's regulatory challenges and UK censorship laws
(1:03:11) Emil Michael's potential cabinet position and government efficiency
(1:12:26) Strategies for balancing the federal budget and reducing national debt
(1:16:19) ByteDance's valuation amidst US restrictions
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Mentioned on the show:
https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/boxing/2024/11/15/mike-tyson-jake-paul-netflix-issues-buffering-reactions/76343456007
https://www.cnn.com/2024/11/18/media/brendan-carr-trump-fcc-nominee-project-2025/index.html
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(11:55) Coda - Get a $1,000 startup credit at https://coda.io/twist
(23:10) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(32:21) Kyte - Download the Kyte app today and use code JASON to save 10%on your first rental.
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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Todays show:
Altimeter's Jamin Ball joins Alex Wilhelm to discuss VC-founder dynamics, fund returns, rapid fundraising, and its impact on M&A. They cover public vs. private valuations, startup liquidity, AI's influence, SaaS trends, and Jamin’s outlook on IPOs and exits.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jamin joins Alex to kick off the show
(6:30) Alignment of incentives between VCs and founders
(10:25) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
(11:54) Venture capital allocation demand and its impact
(15:55) Comparison of returns between small and large venture funds
(21:54) Beehiiv - Get 30 days free and 20% off your first 3 months at https://www.beehiiv.com/twist
(23:23) Power laws in startups and venture capital's impact
(24:19) Effects of rapid fundraising cycles on founders
(31:33) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech
(32:59) Raising large rounds and long-term commitments
(35:15) Venture capital's influence on startup M&A activity
(37:38) Public vs private market valuation disparities
(39:24) Future of startup liquidity and exit scenarios
(46:06) Proposals for realigning venture capital funds and founder incentives
(47:41) Impact of AI on startup growth and venture capital
(52:20) SaaS multiples and cloud software market analysis
(57:43) Software spending trends and startup optimism for 2024
(1:00:15) Procurement scrutiny in startup budgets and market differentiation
(1:01:17) Promising companies and Jamin Ball's investment outlook
(1:01:28) Expectations for IPOs and startup exits in the coming year
*
Mentioned on the show:
Join Jamin’s substack here: https://cloudedjudgement.substack.com/
Jamin’s article: https://cloudedjudgement.substack.com/p/clouded-judgement-102524-misaligned
Check out Altimeter: https://www.altimeter.com/home
Follow Bill Gurlery on X: https://x.com/bgurley
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X: https://x.com/jaminball
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(31:33) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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Todays show:
Jason and Alex host Phil Deutch, CEO of NGP Energy Tech Partners, to discuss solar power’s potential in the energy crunch fueled by data center growth. They then explored the FBI's raid on Polymarket’s CEO, and wrapped up with Y Combinator’s latest startup requests, including Alex’s space venture dreams and Jason’s interest in AI-proof jobs.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(1:09) Robotic demo from Columbia University and the future of human interaction
(3:09) Population declines and changing societal norms
(5:38) NGP Energy Technology Partners’ Phil Deutch joins the show
(6:28) Fundrise - Sign up today at https://www.fundrise.com/TWIST
(8:02) Global Solar Energy Trends and Impact of Regulations
(17:27) Historical Energy Fears and Future Energy Predictions
(21:39) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(22:40) Nuclear energy in the United States and data center demand
(30:07) The impact of energy on geopolitics
(34:48) Historical energy crises and solutions
(37:38) Linear - Streamline issues, projects, and product roadmaps in a tool your team will actually enjoy using. Get 25% off at https://www.linear.app/twist
(38:35) EV tax credits, political implications, and air pollution statistics
(50:14) The Polymarket mess and prediction market regulation
(1:09:55) Y Combinator's latest startup requests
(1:13:05) Stablecoins, government software, and public safety technology
(1:22:26) Gig economy and AI's impact on platforms like Fiverr and Uber
*
Mentioned on the show:
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/commentisfree/2024/oct/01/amid-australias-chaotic-climate-politics-the-rooftop-solar-boom-is-an-unlikely-triumph
https://www.nytimes.com/2024/11/13/technology/polymarket-shayne-coplan-fbi-search.html
https://berkeleyearth.org/air-pollution-and-cigarette-equivalence
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Follow Phil:
X: https://x.com/pdeutch
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philip-deutch-21a76a6
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(6:28) Fundrise - Sign up today at https://www.fundrise.com/TWIST
(21:39) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(37:38) Linear - Streamline issues, projects, and product roadmaps in a tool your team will actually enjoy using. Get 25% off at https://www.linear.app/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
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Sprig. The Product Experience platform that generates AI-powered opportunities to continuously improve your product at scale. Visit https://www.sprig.com/twist to book a demo and get a $75 gift card.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(2:40) VATN Systems’ Nelson Mills joins the show
(4:01) The Torsk and its applications, focusing on defense and cost efficiency
(7:23) Product velocity, military drone usage, and vehicle speed and depth capabilities
(10:48) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(12:01) Discussion on Chinese navy, US shipbuilding, and Rhode Island's manufacturing capabilities
(15:45) Climate for raising money in defense tech and competition in global politics
(21:04) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(22:33) Underwater drone technologies: Autonomy, swarming, communication challenges, and battery life
(28:32) Defense technology importance and peace through strength
(29:17) Sprig - Visit https://www.sprig.com/twist to book a demo and get a $75 gift card.
(35:00) LG's new stretchable screen technology and Deep Robotics' quadruped robot
(45:19) Robotics in warfare, cybersecurity, and civilian impact
(48:50) Autonomous surgical robots and science fiction predictions in AI
(54:14) Fintech market insights: Klarna's IPO and political climate effects on valuations
(1:00:18) Unicorn IPO challenges and influencing in the crypto market
(1:03:08) Comparison of the current market to previous manias and government efficiency
(1:08:42) Impact of AI on job market, economy, and autonomous trucking
*
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Mentioned on the show:
https://x.com/DeepRobotics_CN/status/1856601226357387396
https://hub.jhu.edu/2024/11/11/surgery-robots-trained-with-videos
https://www.klarna.com/international/press/klarna-announces-confidential-submission-of-draft-registration-statement-to-sec-for-proposed-initial-public-offering
https://www.paymentsdive.com/news/klarna-adds-savings-accounts-competing-banking-business/724369
*
Follow Nelson:
X: https://x.com/nelson_mills_
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/millsn
Website: https://www.vatnsystems.com
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:48) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(21:04) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(29:17) Sprig - Visit https://www.sprig.com/twist to book a demo and get a $75 gift card.
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
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*
Todays show:
Alex Wilhelm joins Jason to discuss Serve Robotics’ self-driving robots, delivery economics, and building while public with CEO Ali Kashani. Then, the pair dug into high-skill immigration under the upcoming administration and massive price gains in stocks and crypto assets. Alex wondered if the stock market isn't overvalued, full-stop, but both hosts agreed that enthusiasm is hot heading into the new year.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show(7:27) Serve Robotics' Ali Kashani joins to discuss Serve's latest developments(10:38) Beehiiv - Get 30 days free and 20% off your first 3 months at https://www.beehiiv.com/twist(12:37) Expansion challenges and navigating regulations(20:42) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist(22:19) Business model, future plans, and partnerships(29:14) Cloud Devs - Visit https://www.clouddevs.com/twist for an unbeatable offer on hiring elite Latam talent today.(30:41) Coopetition in the robotics and delivery space(35:16) Autonomous deliveries forecast for 2030(49:17) High skill immigration and global talent competition(54:19) Leadership styles and labor market shifts(1:07:16) Government's stance on cryptocurrency(1:13:25) Blockchain innovation and tokenizing venture capital
*
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Mentioned on the show:
https://investors.serverobotics.com/static-files/96eeebc1-712f-46fe-9aee-c1242bddea38
https://www.vebulabs.com/autocado
https://a16zcrypto.com/posts/article/a-positive-path-forward
https://www.longtermtrends.net/market-cap-to-gdp-the-buffett-indicator
https://www.npr.org/2024/11/11/nx-s1-5186522/tom-homan-border-czar-trump
*
Follow Ali:
X: https://x.com/ahkashani
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alikashani
Website: https://www.serverobotics.com
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:38) Beehiiv - Get 30 days free and 20% off your first 3 months at https://www.beehiiv.com/twist
(20:42) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(29:14) Cloud Devs - Visit https://www.clouddevs.com/twist for an unbeatable offer on hiring elite Latam talent today.
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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Todays show:
Alex Wilhelm joins Jason to discuss Apple’s on-device AI and its privacy implications, Reddit’s earnings, and Amazon’s multi-billion dollar investment interest in Anthropic with strategic chip conditions. They also discuss economic indicators like inflation’s impact on voter sentiment and what metrics will define success for the next administration. Finally, they explore how product velocity has been key to Toast’s SaaS success and share valuable lessons for startup growth.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(3:29) Discussion Apple Intelligence and privacy concerns
(10:32) Runway - Sign up at https://www.runway.com/twist to get your first 3 months free.
(12:12) Trust in tech companies and privacy
(17:20) Trends on AI topics and ChatGPT
(17:20) Trends and tech product comparisons
(20:59) OpenAI's Chat.com acquisition
(22:45) Mac mini unboxing experience wrap-up
(24:40) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(26:12) Analysis of Toast's business and growth
(36:25) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(37:30) Reddit's growth, user engagement, and moderation challenges
(47:36) Social media incentives and reputation systems
(52:07) Reddit's AI translations and community management strategies
(57:25) Reddit's potential for creating a search engine
(1:00:38) OpenAI's citation challenges
(1:05:30) Amazon's interest in Anthropic and AI regulation
(1:07:37) US immigration and AI regulation under Trump administration
(1:11:43) TikTok's role in US-China relations
(1:15:42) Major IPOs and market potential
(1:17:19) Economic topics and inflation's impact on consumer spending
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Mentioned on the show:
https://security.apple.com/blog/private-cloud-compute/
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
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Thank you to our partners:
(10:32) Runway - Sign up at https://www.runway.com/twist to get your first 3 months free.
(24:40) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(36:25) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
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Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Oracle. Oracle Cloud Infrastructure, or OCI, is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. Save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist
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*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(3:55) Skydio’s Adam Bry joins the show
(4:22) Overview of Skydio's autonomous drones and public safety applications
(9:31) Oracle - Try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist
(11:07) Skydio as the largest US drone producer and Chinese sanctions impact
(17:36) Risks of Chinese-made drones and Skydio's cybersecurity measures
(21:28) Drones in defense and combat applications
(25:15) Notion - Try it for free today at https://notion.com/twist
(27:24) Drone light shows and military implications, Skydio's mission and hiring
(31:44) Future applications of drone technology and hardware startup challenges
(39:31) Geopolitical tensions and impact on American companies
(39:43) AssemblyAI - Get 100 free hours to start building at https://www.assemblyai.com/twist
(41:36) Presidential election results and implications for entrepreneurship
(48:49) Tariffs, immigration policies, and economic impact
(57:41) Prediction markets
(1:00:07) High-skilled immigration and antitrust policies
(1:04:35) Political influence on business dynamics and media
(1:07:02) Mergers, acquisitions, and startup liquidity post-Lena Khan
(1:11:26) Secondary markets, Lyft and DoorDash valuation trends
(1:15:15) The future of search engines
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Mentioned on the show:
Check out Skydio: https://www.skydio.com/
Check out Perplexity: https://www.perplexity.ai/
Article on Amazon’s purchase of MGM: https://www.esquire.com/entertainment/movies/a36543339/james-bond-amazon-mgm-deal-explained/
Article on election ad spending in 2024: https://www.afaqs.com/news/advertising/harris-and-trump-spent-nearly-10-billion-on-ads-in-2024-us-elections-7452195
Trailer for 1982 Doc “Buried”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G4NpOlJ_O-I
*
Follow Adam:
X: https://x.com/adampbry
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adambry/
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
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X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:31) Oracle - Try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill at at https://www.oracle.com/twist
(25:15) Notion - Try it for free today at https://notion.com/twist
(39:43) AssemblyAI - Get 100 free hours to start building at https://www.assemblyai.com/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by:
NetSuite. The number one cloud financial system, bringing accounting, financial management, inventory, and HR, into one platform. Giving you one source of truth. Download the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine Learning for free at https://www.netsuite.com/twist
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*
Todays show:
In this episode, host Alex sits down with Exowatt’s Hannan Parvizian to explore how the company is addressing the massive energy demands of AI and datacenters. They discuss Exowatt's mission to deliver affordable, sustainable power solutions that meet the needs of a rapidly expanding tech landscape. Together, they dive into the challenges and innovations shaping the future of clean energy for data-heavy applications.
*
Timestamps:(0:00) AI search energy consumption and corporate willingness to pay for AI(1:30) Introduction to power, electricity, and Hannan Parvizian of ExoWatt(4:21) Renewable energy, fossil fuels, and data center energy consumption(7:15) AI race, energy demands, and founding of ExoWatt
(8:25) Key challenges in the renewable energy sector
(9:24) NetSuite - Download the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine Learning for free at https://www.netsuite.com/twist(12:23) Cost of electricity, energy bills, and Texas energy market
(13:40) Exowatt’s unique technology and competitive edge(17:46) Introduction to ExoWatt's P3 product
(21:34) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at https://gusto.com/twist(22:39) Energy storage technologies and comparison
(30:47) Washington Post - TWiST listeners can subscribe for just 50 cents per week for your first year at https://www.washingtonpost.com/twist(31:58) P3 modules' energy capacity and storage(34:55) Heat-to-electricity conversion mechanism(37:56) ExoWatt's company background, funding, and scaling challenges(43:14) Variable pricing, customer demand, and AI's energy consumption outlook(50:10) American manufacturing dynamism and AI's impact on the job market*
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Check out Exowatt: https://www.exowatt.com/*
Follow Hannan:
X: https://x.com/hapi31415
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannanparvizian/
*
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Thank you to our partners:
(9:24) NetSuite - Download the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine Learning for free at https://www.netsuite.com/twist
(21:34) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at https://gusto.com/twist
(30:47) Washington Post - TWiST listeners can subscribe for just 50 cents per week for your first year at https://www.washingtonpost.com/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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Todays show:
Alex Wilhelm joins Jason to discuss AI's role in gaming with Decart’s AI-generated video game and its potential impact.(10:31) Viral growth strategies for startups and Runway AI's video creation innovations. Financial topics include NVIDIA's market value and Amazon's nuclear power ambitions.(21:39).
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(3:34) Election security in America and challenges of swinging state votes
(8:41) AI-generated video game by Decart and its potential in gaming and entertainment
(9:03) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(17:07) Viral growth strategy for startups and collaboration between Decart and Etched
(A20:38) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(21:37) NVIDIA's value, financial speculation, and customer concentration
(29:32) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(44:16) Amazon's nuclear power deal and regulatory challenges
*
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Thank you to our partners:
(9:03) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
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(29:32) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by:
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*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(4:49) Extend Robotics’ Dr. Chang Liu joins the show
(6:23) The challenges of real-world automation, robotic grape picking, and human in the loop AI
(10:44) Fidelity Private Shares℠ - Visit https://www.fidelityprivateshares.com Mention our podcast and receive 20% off your first-year paid subscription.
(12:14) Teleoperation, network latency, and future of robotic harvesting
(21:05) Building a tech company in the UK and second-order effects of AI
(23:24) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
(24:35) AI models learning from best human practitioners
(26:56) Global remote work impact and virtual assistants
(30:38) Impact of global salary standards on US developers
(33:02) Oracle - Save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist
(34:28) Accredited investor rules and potential changes
(42:26) Sophisticated investor tests and angel investing
(47:32) Investing in local businesses and AI news
(48:36) OpenAI announcements and Google’s blowout quarter
(52:22) Democratizing education with AI tutors and OpenAI's new search product
(1:03:39) OpenAI’s advanced voice feature and earnings highlights
(1:06:26) Tech giants' AI initiatives and implications
(1:08:03) Amazon’s AWS growth and AI business expansion
(1:14:39) Audience question: Interesting AI sectors for startups
(1:21:05) The Chinese EV market
*
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Check out the Launch CloudKitchens Incubator: https://ck.launch.co
*
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*
Check out Extend Robotics: https://www.extendrobotics.com/Here is the “Empowering Main Street in America Act”: https://www.banking.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/emsaa_section-by-section.pdfCheck out SearchGPT: https://openai.com/index/searchgpt-prototype/Check out the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra: https://www.mi.com/global/discover/article?id=3768Check out Nio: https://www.nio.com
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Follow Dr Chang Liu:
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8
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(23:24) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
(33:02) Oracle - Save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by:
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Todays show:
Moniepoint made waves this week by raising a massive $110 million Series C. For a startup in a category (fintech) that has seen its venture fortunes falter and a company building for the African market (which has seen its venture inflows slow), Moniepoint is an outlier – twice. Three times if you consider how quickly the company has grown in recent years. How did its round come together? How was it priced? And why aren’t more investors putting capital to work in Africa? Tune in, we have answers.
*
Timestamps:(0:00) Alex Wilhelm kicks off the show
(1:21) Moniepoint's origin story and pivot to the current model
(10:30) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(10:13) Balancing profitability and venture capital
(16:48) Digitalization's impact on Moniepoint's growth
(25:11) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(26:43) Moniepoint's office and IPO strategies
(28:18) Launch of consumer banking services
(31:07) Linear - Streamline issues, projects, and product roadmaps in a tool your team will actually enjoy using. Get 25% off at https://www.linear.app/twist
(32:07) The recent fundraising round and valuation insights
(38:32) Moniepoint's expansion plans in Africa
(42:17) Fostering the early-stage startup ecosystem
(44:18) Tosin's journey in angel investing
(46:38) Spotlight on African startups in the global market
(49:37) Angel University - Apply now at https://www.angel.univeristy
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Check out Moniepoint: https://moniepoint.com
*
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*
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*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:30) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(25:11) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(31:07) Linear - Streamline issues, projects, and product roadmaps in a tool your team will actually enjoy using. Get 25% off at https://www.linear.app/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
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*
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by:
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Kalshi. Kalshi—the largest regulated predictions market—now lets you trade on US elections. Visit https://www.kalshi.com/twist to see live odds, trade, and get $20 when you deposit $100.
*
Todays show:
Alex Wilhelm interviews leaders from Monte Carlo and Mastertech.ai, exploring their roles in data observability and AI applications. Linda Gray shares her journey founding Mastertech.ai and highlighting AI's transformative role in auto shops.(2:05) Monte Carlo's Lior Gavish discusses the importance of data downtime and AI's influence on data monitoring. (35:51)
*
Timestamps:(0:00) Alex Wilhelm kicks off the show
(2:05) Linda Gray's career and Mastertech.ai origin
(5:17) Mastertech.ai and the auto repair industry
(8:06) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(9:11) Technological adoption and Mastertech.ai's benefits
(16:18) Mastertech.ai's OEM approval process and community data
(20:50) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(22:20) Mastertech.ai's AI-driven diagnostics demo
(34:34) Kalshi—the largest regulated predictions market—now lets you trade on US elections. Visit https://www.kalshi.com/twist to see live odds, trade, and get $20 when you deposit $100.
(35:51) Lior Gavish from Monte Carlo joins Alex
(45:15) AI's accelerant effect on Monte Carlo's growth and strategy*
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*
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*
Monte Carlo: https://www.montecarlodata.com
Mastertech.AI: https://www.mastertech.ai
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Follow Lior:
X: https://x.com/lgavish
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lgavish
*
Follow Linda:
X: https://x.com/lindach167
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/linda-gray-6433b251
*
Thank you to our partners:
(8:06) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(20:50) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(34:34) Kalshi - Sign up to win $100K at https://www.kalshi.com/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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Cloud Devs. Building the best remote team is tough, but you don’t have to do it alone. Visithttps://www.clouddevs.com/twist for an unbeatable offer on hiring elite Latam talent today.
Kalshi. Kalshi the largest regulated predictions market—now lets you trade on US elections. Visit https://www.kalshi.com/twist to see live odds, trade, and get $20 when you deposit $100.
*
Todays show:
Sonos director Mattias Scheek joins Jason & Alex to discuss his journey in audio technology and Sonos acquisition. Then, Jason and Alex dive into election security (34:57), influencer marketing, Google’s upcoming AI release (1:10:42), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(3:18) Earnings week predictions & discussion on national debt
(9:17) DigitalOcean. DigitalOcean is the cloud platform you need to turn your AI project into a rocket ship. Right now, approved listeners can get up to $100,000 in free credits to try us out. Visit https://do.co/twist - get started and view terms and conditions.
(10:24) Mattias Scheek from Sonos joins the show
(11:23) Mattias Scheek's journey in audio technology and Sonos acquisition
(17:49) Challenges for hardware startups in venture capital
(20:25) Getting acquired: The process, strategy, and life after
(22:04) Cloud Devs - Visit https://www.clouddevs.com/twist for an unbeatable offer on hiring elite Latam talent today.
(23:11) Sonos' hi-fi strategy and industry issues in audio clarity
(33:08) Kalshi - Visit https://www.kalshi.com/twist today to see live election odds, place a trade, and get $20 dollars when you deposit $100.(34:57) Voting irregularities, election security, and influencer marketing
(45:14) Trump Rogan YouTube search issues and search engine comparison
(53:06) Monetization experiments on YouTube and Launch Cloud Kitchens Incubator
(1:10:42) Google's upcoming AI model for PC browsers and cybersecurity risks
(1:15:52) Apple's app permissions approach and AI
*
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Check out the Launch CloudKitchens Incubator: https://ck.launch.co
*
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*
Mentioned on the show:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JWnUry6mCxs
*
Follow Mattias:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattias-scheek-539a0349/
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:17) DigitalOcean. DigitalOcean is the cloud platform you need to turn your AI project into a rocket ship. Right now, approved listeners can get up to $100,000 in free credits to try us out. Visit https://do.co/twist - get started and view terms and conditions.
(22:04) Cloud Devs - Visit https://www.clouddevs.com/twist for an unbeatable offer on hiring elite Latam talent today.
(33:08) Kalshi - Visit https://www.kalshi.com/twist today to see live election odds, place a trade, and get $20 dollars when you deposit $100.
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
In this episode:Alex talks with Shensi Ding from Merge, who shares her transition from finance to tech and highlights the critical role of integrations in modern businesses. They explore the challenges of building and maintaining these integrations, emphasizing the importance of standardized data models. Shensi discusses partnerships and the strategies to overcome resistance. The conversation delves into trust-building, enhancing integration observability, and expanding Merge's offerings to include AI applications. They also touch on financial efficiency, growth strategies, and Merge's evolution beyond APIs, concluding with insights into future plans and potential acquisition interest.*Timestamps:(0:00) Alex kicks off the show with guest Shensi Ding of Merge.
(5:18) Shensi's journey from finance to tech and the importance of integrations(10:20) The challenges of building and maintaining integrations
(11:19) Coda. Empower your startup with Coda’s Team plan for free—get 6 months at https://www.Coda.io/twist
(13:17) Identifying the market gap for Merge and the benefits of standardized data models(17:39) Partnership building, Salesforce integration, and overcoming resistance
(20:07) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(21:16) Further discussion on trust-building and integration challenges(26:04) Enhancing integration observability and customer support
(30:01) Micro1 - Visit https://www.micro1.ai/twist to get 10 free AI Interviews and 2 weeks free per hire
(31:21) Expanding Merge's integration list and its AI applications(35:27) Discussing financial efficiency, runway management, and team dynamics(43:16) Growth strategies, customer base expansion, and go-to-market experiments(47:10) Pricing strategies, customer value, and market trends(50:05) Future plans for Merge, acquisition interest, and long-term vision(52:26) Evolution of Merge beyond API focus.
*
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Check out Merge here: https://www.merge.dev/
*
Follow Shansi:
X: https://x.com/shensi
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shensiding/
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Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
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Thank you to our partners:
(11:19) Coda. Empower your startup with Coda’s Team plan for free—get 6 months at https://www.Coda.io/twist
(20:07) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(30:01) Micro1 - Visit https://www.micro1.ai/twist to get 10 free AI Interviews and 2 weeks free per hire
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
In this episode we look back at all the Jam with JCal sessions from 2024. This is where startups pitch their groundbreaking ideas to Jason, covering everything from AI-driven investor tools and gamified publisher rewards to sleep tech and architecture compliance software. Watch as these innovative founders get unfiltered feedback and game-changing advice! Don’t miss these exciting pitches that could be the next big thing.
*
Timestamps:(0:00) Alex kicks off the show, setting the stage for our "Jam with JCal" season recap, focusing on startups using .TECH domains.
(0:53) Jason discusses the origins of the Jam with JCal sessions and how Travis from Uber inspired the format.
(1:39) Ramsey Shaffer presents Uptrends AI, explaining how it helps financial advisors manage and stay ahead of market news.
(17:24) Ana Malhotra introduces Rome, a yard-sharing service for dogs.
(32:24) Tyce Herrman talks about Ullama, software for architects that analyzes 3D building models for code compliance, highlighting their journey and challenges.
(44:56) Ulan Abdurazakov presents CorePod, an AI-powered device designed to help users get better sleep with personalized voice interaction
(57:25) Elliot Easterling presents Bonbon, a rewards platform for publishers to boost engagement through gamification, and discusses their go-to-market strategy.
*
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*
Get your .TECH domain here: https://get.tech/
Check out Uptrends AI:https://www.uptrends-ai.tech/
Check out the Rome app: https://theromeapp.tech/
Check out Ulama: https://www.ulama.tech/
Check out CorePod: https://www.corepod.tech/
Check out Bonbon: https://bonbon.tech
*
Follow Ramsey:
X: https://x.com/RamseyShaffer
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramseyshaffer/
*
Follow Ana:
X: https://x.com/TheAnaMalhotra
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ana-malhotra/
*
Follow Ulan:
X: https://x.com/defoemark
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ulanbek-abdurazakov/
*
Follow Tyce:X: https://x.com/tycecycle
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyceherrman/
Follow Elliot:
X: https://x.com/e_easterling
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elliotteasterling
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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Beehiiv. Power your newsletters with AI tools, referral programs, and ad network features—all in one platform. Get 30 days free and 20% off your first 3 months at https://www.beehiiv.com/twist
*
Todays show:
Jason and Alex dive into the latest updates from Claude AI, exploring the new “Use Computer” feature and its implications. Next, Andrew Lissimore of headphones.com shares the journey of turning a side hustle into a thriving business, highlighting the advantages of owning a premium domain and leveraging YouTube for customer acquisition. The team from Prandtl Dynamics then joins to showcase their handcrafted, anti-drone technology. Finally, the episode concludes with an in-depth discussion on TollBit’s Series A funding and their strategies for scaling in the competitive marketplace space.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(2:52) Anthropic's latest launch, Claude 3.5 Sonnet capable of "Computer use".
(8:33) Future of AI assistants and employment effects
(10:11) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(11:36) AI's impact on white-collar jobs and economic implications
(21:12) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(22:13) Andrew Lissimore from headphones.com joins the show
(30:38) Beehiiv - Get 30 days free and 20% off your first 3 months at https://www.beehiiv.com/twist
(32:06) Deep dive into high-end audio and audiophile community
(38:03) The role of reviews and content at headphones.com
(47:00) Leveraging Organic search and YouTube for brand growth
(50:11) Prandtl Dynamics team on anti-drone technology
(55:21) Building cost-effective anti-drone solutions
(1:03:42) Prandtl Dynamics business potential and funding
(1:09:04) TollBit's Series A funding news and AI data marketplace
*
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Check out Prandtl Dynamics: https://prandtl.ca
*
Follow Andrew:
X: https://x.com/andrewlissimore
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewlissimore
Website: https://www.headphones.com
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
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X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
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Thank you to our partners:
(10:11) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
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(30:38) Beehiiv - Get 30 days free and 20% off your first 3 months at https://www.beehiiv.com/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
LinkedIn Jobs. A business is only as strong as its people, and every hire matters. Go to https://www.linkedin.com/twist to post your first job for free. Terms and conditions apply
Kalshi. The largest regulated predictions market—now lets you trade on US elections. Visit kalshi.com/twist to see live odds, trade, and get $20 when you deposit $100.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(4:10) Heritage Foundation's stance on election integrity and fraud
(11:18) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(12:48) Technological improvements for secure elections
(21:07) Hans von Spakovsky's perspective on the 2020 election
(22:29) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(24:01) Election security and legal consequences of fraud
(30:06) Closing remarks on election security
(32:11) Reflecting on the election fraud discussion and transfer of power
(31:00) (28:22) Kalshi - Visit https://www.kalshi.com/twist today to see live election odds, place a trade, and get $20 dollars when you deposit $100.
(36:06) Introduction of Rafat Ali and discussion on Uber-Expedia rumors
(42:16) Evaluating the potential Uber-Expedia acquisition
(45:04) Challenges and consumer behavior in online travel industry
(48:33) Future of loyalty programs and travel industry partnerships
(52:17) Uber's strategic moves in the travel sector
(57:00) AI advancements in travel and media
(1:00:19) Media strategies and data monetization
(1:05:21) Skift's business model, LinkedIn's role, and remote work strategies
(1:11:24) Skift's growth and potential IPO discussion
(1:13:18) Uber's expansion into the airline industry
(1:15:41) Latest developments in AI with Anthropic's Claude 3.5 model
(1:20:07) Announcement of Angel University workshop
*
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*
Mentioned on the show:
Check out The Heritage Foundation: https://www.heritage.org/
Check out The Heritage Foundation’s database: https://www.heritage.org/voterfraud
Check out Skift: https://skift.com/
*
Follow Hans:
X: https://x.com/HvonSpakovsky
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hans-von-spakovsky-0a544913/
Follow Rafat:
X: https://x.com/rafat
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rafatali/
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(11:18) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(22:29) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(31:00) (28:22) Kalshi - Visit https://www.kalshi.com/twist today to see live election odds, place a trade, and get $20 dollars when you deposit $100.
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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Oracle - Oracle Cloud Infrastructure, or OCI, is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. Save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist
Kalshi—the largest regulated predictions market—now lets you trade on US elections. Visit https://www.kalshi.com/twist to see live odds, trade, and get $20 when you deposit $100.
*
Todays show:
Alex Wilhelm joins Jason to discuss the GPU market insights and the discovery of a new prime number. John LePore from BlackBox Infinite joins to discuss bridging science fiction with real-world tech, focusing on VisionPRO and Hollywood VFX. The discussion shifts to autonomous driving, Tesla's safety improvements, and Stripe's acquisition of Bridge.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(5:15) Discovery of a new prime number and GPU market insights
(7:15) BlackBox Infinite's John LePore joins the show
(10:06) DigitalOcean - Approved listeners can get up to $100,000 in free credits to try out. Visit https://www.do.co/twist to get started. Terms and conditions apply
(11:54) VisionPRO app development and Hollywood VFX integration
(16:51) Oracle - Try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist
(18:35) Bridging the gap between science fiction and real-world technology
(20:36) Deep dive into the F1 experience prototype
(28:22) Kalshi - Visit https://www.kalshi.com/twist today to see live election odds, place a trade, and get $20 dollars when you deposit $100.
(29:35) Inspirational media and its impact on technology
(32:10) The influence of science fiction interfaces on real-world tech
(38:59) How safe is self-driving technology today?
(1:03:11) Stripe buying Stablecoin provider Bridge*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow John:
X: https://www.x.com/JohnnyMotion
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnnymotion
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:06) DigitalOcean - Approved listeners can get up to $100,000 in free credits to try out. Visit https://www.do.co/twist to get started. Terms and conditions apply
(16:51) Oracle - Try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist
(28:22) Kalshi - Visit https://www.kalshi.com/twist today to see live election odds, place a trade, and get $20 dollars when you deposit $100.
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Todays show:
Cacheflow’s Sarika Garg joins Alex Wilhelm to discuss the challenges of B2B software sales (4:26), finding product-market fit (14:08), HubSpot's acquisition of Cacheflow (17:32), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Cacheflow’s Sarika Garg joins Alex
(2:25) Sarika Garg's startup journey and founding of Cacheflow
(4:26) Challenges in B2B software sales, managing billing complexities, and SaaS explosion
(10:09) Initial funding, product development, and growth
(10:34) AssemblyAI - Get 100 free hours to start building at https://www.assemblyai.com/twist
(14:08) Finding product-market fit and scaling strategies
(17:32) HubSpot's acquisition of Cacheflow
(21:20) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(22:24) Preparing for Series A and positioning as an AI company
(24:57) Deal with HubSpot and integration plans
(29:41) Runway - Sign up at https://runway.com/twist to get your first 3 months free
(30:58) Diverse cap table, early exit, and founder lessons
(33:45) Importance of a part-time CFO and organizational efficiency
(37:26) Integration with HubSpot's Commerce Hub
(39:02) Shifts in SaaS buying behavior and future plans at HubSpot
(47:01) Remote work’s impact
*
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Check out the TWIST500: twist500.com
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*
Check out Cacheflow: https://www.getcacheflow.com
Check out Alex’s articles on Cacheflow:https://techcrunch.com/2022/12/06/cacheflow-doubles-valuation-while-raising-10m-proving-that-the-venture-market-is-far-from-dead/https://techcrunch.com/2021/11/10/cacheflow-drops-stealth-tag-raises-6m-to-simplify-the-saas-buying-experience/
*
Follow Sarika:
X: https://x.com/sarikagarg
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarikagarg
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:34) AssemblyAI - Get 100 free hours to start building at https://www.assemblyai.com/twist
(21:20) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(29:41) Runway - Sign up at https://runway.com/twist to get your first 3 months free
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Todays show:Kruze’s Scott Orn joins Jason on the latest edition of Startup Finance Basics! In this episode, they break down the best financial advice that VCs give founders including, managing cash flow (0:21), accounting methods (5:19), building an effective financial plan (15:22), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(00:00) Kruze COO, Scott Orn, joins Jason
(0:21) The best financial advice VCs give startups, managing cash flow, and the risks of over-fundraising
(5:19) Growth strategies for early-stage startups and accounting methods
(8:28) Legal aspects of financial representation and maintaining credibility with VCs
(15:00) Building an effective financial plan for your startup
(17:47) Historical perspectives on funding and the importance of regulatory considerations
*
Check out Kruze: https://kruzeconsulting.com
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Scott:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottorn
X: https://twitter.com/scottorn
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Fundrise. Fundrise provides access to diversified portfolios of private real estate to all investors with their industry leading, easy to use platform. Sign up today at https://www.fundrise.com/twist
Brave. Brave is an internet privacy company on a mission to protect your personal info online. Download Brave today at https://brave.com/twist to browse faster, search privately and so much more. All in a single click.
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(2:06) FTC's new subscription rules and impact
(6:58) Fundrise - Sign up today at https://www.fundrise.com/twist
(8:16) Density's mission and "Waffle" product announcement
(16:02) Real-time wayfinding and utilization tracking
(22:45) Brave - Download today at https://brave.com/twist to browse faster, search privately and so much more
(23:59) Data's impact on city planning and operations
(27:12) Sensor costs and impact on adoption
(32:24) Unit economics and adoption curves
(39:13) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(40:22) Robotaxi fleet modeling project
(48:33) Google and Kairos nuclear power deal
(50:00) Amazon's nuclear energy agreements
(55:09) Solar and fracking trends
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
TWiST AV Models:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1txb73-0MvKq_FAcGWMsUcctwgEVHYkgQ38kgEnOuHMs/edit?gid=1464971737#gid=1464971737
*
Mentioned on the show:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1txb73-0MvKq_FAcGWMsUcctwgEVHYkgQ38kgEnOuHMs/edit?gid=1464971737#gid=1464971737
https://blog.google/outreach-initiatives/sustainability/google-kairos-power-nuclear-energy-agreement
https://www.aboutamazon.com/news/sustainability/amazon-nuclear-small-modular-reactor-net-carbon-zero
https://ourworldindata.org/energy-gdp-decoupling
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/czkkgnp1d2xo
https://archive.is/ZOO42#selection-1051.130-1059.17
https://www.semafor.com/article/10/03/2024/solar-boom-in-china-turns-electricity-prices-negative
*
Check out these startups:
https://www.trlyr.com
https://www.terra.one
https://www.tozero.solutions
https://www.altris.se
https://bedrock.inc
https://www.unbound-potential.com
https://www.3dc.co.jp/en
https://www.flowaluminum.com
https://www.hydrostor.ca
https://www.thaleron.com
https://sizableenergy.com
https://www.kitekraft.de
https://www.byterat.io
https://www.ionworks.com
*
Follow Andrew:
X: https://x.com/andrewfarah
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewfarah
Check out: https://density.io
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(6:58) Fundrise - Sign up today at https://www.fundrise.com/twist
(22:45) Brave - Download today at https://brave.com/twist to browse faster, search privately and so much more
(39:13) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers, get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
Fidelity Private Shares℠. Manage your cap table and data room, get faster, more accurate 409A valuation and fully automate your next financing round. Visit https://www.fidelityprivateshares.com! Mention our podcast and receive 20% off your first-year paid subscription.
CLA. Innovation takes balance. CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors can help you get from startup to where you want to end up. Get started now at https://claconnect.com/tech
*
Sunny Madra joins Jason to discuss Tesla’s Robotaxis (2:17), demo ChatGPT-4o new Canvas interface (25:23), break down Meta’s Movie Gen model (41:11), Notebook LM (54:41), and much more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Sunny Madra and Jason kick off the show
(2:17) Tesla's Robotaxi reveal and challenges with regulatory approval
(10:00) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(11:22) Self-driving architectures and potential applications for Tesla's Cybervan
(18:15) Update on Tesla's Optimus robot and the future of autonomous vehicles
(22:04) Interest rates and startup funding challenges
(22:13) Fidelity Private Shares℠ - Visit https://www.fidelityprivateshares.com! Mention our podcast and receive 20% off your first-year paid subscription.
(23:14) Traffic congestion, urban planning, and future players in autonomous vehicles
(25:23) ChatGPT-4o with Canvas demo
(31:28) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://www.claconnect.com/tech(41:11) Meta vision models and Groq demo
(42:35) Apple AirPods updates and AR glasses privacy concerns
(47:46) Meta's new vision models, open-source impact, and OpenAI's business model
(54:41) Notebook LM's tools
(1:00:13) Capturing family history with AI and Meta Movie Gen's potential
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
LINKS:
Check out OpenAI’s Canvas: https://openai.com/index/introducing-canvas/
Check out Notebook LM: https://notebooklm.google.com/
Check out Meta Movie Gen: https://ai.meta.com/research/movie-gen/Check out Meta Llama 3.2: https://ai.meta.com/blog/llama-3-2-connect-2024-vision-edge-mobile-devices/
*
Follow Sunny:
X: https://twitter.com/sundeep
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sundeepm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:00) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(22:04) Fidelity Private Shares℠ - Visit https://www.fidelityprivateshares.com! Mention our podcast and receive 20% off your first-year paid subscription.
(31:32) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://www.claconnect.com/tech
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com/
Check out the TWIST500: twist500.com
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
Beehiiv. Power your newsletters with AI tools, referral programs, and ad network features—all in one platform. Get 30 days free and 20% off your first 3 months at https://www.beehiiv.com/twist
Cloud Devs. Building the best remote team is tough, but you don’t have to do it alone. Visithttps://www.clouddevs.com/twist for an unbeatable offer on hiring elite Latam talent today.
*
Todays show:
Alex Wilhelm joins Jason to dive into Tesla’s Robotaxi event, highlighting Tesla's bold plans for a self-driving, bus-style vehicle (4:33). Then, Lightship RV co-founders Toby Kraus and Ben Parker talk about the future of electric RVs (25:04). Finally, Voatz CEO Nimit Sawhney shares how blockchain is being used to secure elections (51:35).
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(4:33) The Tesla Robotaxi event
(6:46) The potential impact of Tesla's bus platform
(11:59) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(13:29) ChatGPT 4 with Canvas demonstration
(18:23) Predictions on the future of self-driving cars
(23:36) Beehiiv - Get 30 days free and 20% off your first 3 months at https://www.beehiiv.com/twist
(25:04) Lightship RV co-founders Toby Kraus and Ben Parker join the show
(27:55) Description and features of Lightship RV
(33:58) Cloud Devs - Visit https://www.clouddevs.com/twist for an unbeatable offer on hiring elite Latam talent today.
(35:05) Financing strategy and market potential for Lightship
(39:00) Impact of market trends on Lightship
(41:19) Lightship's unique selling points, competition, and market strategy
(51:35) Voatz CEO Nimit Sawhney joins the show
(54:48) Voatz's progress, voting process, and blockchain integration
(1:02:25) Election fraud concerns and attack vectors
(1:06:02) Voatz's business model and sales cycle
(1:08:11) Discussion on Dominion Voting Systems and election security
(1:10:15) The debate over voter ID requirements and voting transparency
(1:13:38) Upcoming topics: Solar energy advancements
(1:14:28) Twist 500 nominations and submission guidelines
*
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Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Check out:
https://lightshiprv.com
https://voatz.com
*
Follow Toby:
X: https://x.com/kraus_toby
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tobykraus
*
Follow Ben:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminparker1203/
*
Follow Nimit:
X: https://x.com/yenhwas
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(11:59) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(23:36) Beehiiv - Get 30 days free and 20% off your first 3 months at https://www.beehiiv.com/twist
(33:58) Cloud Devs - Visit https://www.clouddevs.com/twist for an unbeatable offer on hiring elite Latam talent today.
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
NetSuite. The number one cloud financial system, bringing accounting, financial management, inventory, and HR, into one platform. Giving you one source of truth. Download the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine Learning for free at https://www.netsuite.com/twist
Sprig. The Product Experience platform that generates AI-powered opportunities to continuously improve your product at scale. Visit https://www.sprig.com/twist to book a demo and get a $75 gift card.
*
Todays show:
We reviewed the first 100 companies on the TWiST500 list, covering sectors from fintech to AI, robotics, and space. Dozens of must-know startups emerged. Today, Alex breaks down the categories seeing the most entrants and highlight some of our favorite picks.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Alex Wilhelm kicks off the show
(3:08) AI for Devs: Qodo & Poolside
(6:25) AI Infrastructure: CoreWeave
(8:43) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(10:15) Data for AI: Tollbit & Scale
(14:05) Robotics: Figure & Dusty Robotics
(17:51) NetSuite - Download the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine Learning for free at https://www.netsuite.com/twist
(19:08) Fintech: Circle & Altruist
(22:37) Cybersecurity: Huntress & Wiz
(26:30) Crypto: Farcaster
(28:17) Other Standouts: Harvey AI, Kojo & Albedo Space
(30:04) Sprig - Visit https://www.sprig.com/twist to book a demo and get a $75 gift card.
(31:17) Angel University kicks off November 6th
*
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Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Companies mentioned on the show:
https://www.qodo.ai
https://www.poolside.ai
https://www.coreweave.com
https://www.tollb.it
https://www.scale.com
https://www.figure.ai
https://www.dustyrobotics.com
https://www.circle.com
https://www.huntress.com
https://www.wiz.io
https://www.farcaster.xyz
*
Check out these TWiST episodes:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jGtV_V54m30
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BZPO5oYUuQU
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ULEwo0VXlZQ
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FdkWFoFD50Q
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ULEwo0VXlZQ
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Thank you to our partners:
(8:43) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(17:51) NetSuite - Download the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine Learning for free at https://www.netsuite.com/twist
(30:04) Sprig - Visit https://www.sprig.com/twist to book a demo and get a $75 gift card.
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Todays show:Kruze’s Scott Orn joins Jason on the latest edition of Startup Finance Basics! In this episode, they break down the unique aspects and dynamics of the current AI boom, contrasting AI startup revenue, costs, and growth rates with traditional SaaS models (4:11). They also dive into AI tools' impact on productivity and labor efficiency (8:12), the accounting challenges and operational issues AI startups face (14:27), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(00:00) Kruze COO, Scott Orn, joins Jason(1:06) Unique aspects and dynamics of the current AI boom(4:11) AI startup revenue, costs, and growth rates vs traditional SaaS(8:12) AI tools and their impact on productivity and labor efficiency(14:27) Accounting challenges and operational issues in AI startups
*
Check out Kruze: https://kruzeconsulting.com
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Scott:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottorn
X: https://twitter.com/scottorn
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Gusto is easy online payroll, benefits, and HR built for modern small businesses. Get three months free when you run your first payroll at https://www.gusto.com/twist
Oracle - Oracle Cloud Infrastructure, or OCI, is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. Save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist
Linear. Linear helps product teams focus on what they do best: Planning and building great products. Streamline issues, projects, and product roadmaps in a tool your team will actually enjoy using. Get 25% off at https://www.linear.app/twist
*
Todays show:
M.G. Siegler joins Jason and Alex to discuss the current venture capital crisis (14:11), and challenges in the venture industry, particularly in early-stage returns and high valuations (18:42). They also address future exits and the impact of regulatory measures on M&A (27:14), Google's antitrust case (49:08), and much more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) M.G. Siegler joins Jason and Alex
(5:05) M.G. Siegler's journey from journalism to venture capital
(8:33) Differences between journalism and venture capital
(10:02) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at https://gusto.com/twist
(11:02) Media training and transparency in companies
(14:11) Venture capital's current state and CRV's capital return
(16:23) Challenges and opportunities in the venture industry
(18:42) Early stage venture returns and the impact of high valuations
(21:42) Oracle - Try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill atat https://www.oracle.com/twist
(23:07) Future exits and liquidity evaluations in startups
(27:14) Acquisitions, hackquisitions, and regulatory impact on M&A
(34:09) Venture capital dynamics and fundraising during market downturn
(35:48) Predictions for the startup market recovery
(38:02) Linear - Streamline issues, projects, and product roadmaps in a tool your team will actually enjoy using. Get 25% off at https://www.linear.app/twist
(38:57) AI competition among tech giants and Meta's hardware challenges
(45:47) Venture capital dynamics and favorite AI tools
(49:08) Google's antitrust case
(55:25) Possible effects of opening Google's search API
(1:03:41) Potential Google spin-offs
(1:06:27) Audience Q&A
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Mentioned on the show:
https://www.cnbc.com/2024/10/08/doj-indicates-its-considering-google-breakup-following-monopoly-ruling.html
https://spyglass.org/vc-crisis
*
Follow M.G. Siegler:
X: https://x.com/mgsiegler
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mgsiegler/?originalSubdomain=uk
Check out: https://www.spyglass.org
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:02) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at https://gusto.com/twist
(21:42) Oracle - Try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill atat https://www.oracle.com/twist
(38:02) Linear - Streamline issues, projects, and product roadmaps in a tool your team will actually enjoy using. Get 25% off at https://www.linear.app/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers, get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at https://www.vanta.com/twist
AssemblyAI. Get maximum value from voice data with AssemblyAI. Build powerful products and features for your end users on the industry’s leading speech-to-text models. Get 100 free hours to start building at https://www.assemblyai.com/twist
*
Todays show:
Radian’s Richard Humphrey joins Alex to discuss the future of space travel, focusing on spaceplanes like the Radian One (2:05). The two dive into technological advancements (10:20), funding challenges (14:28), the potential to reduce orbital launch costs (47:56), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Radian’s Richard Humphrey joins Alex
(2:05) Discussion on Richard Humphrey's aviation history and spaceplane development
(4:22) Spaceplanes versus rockets: advantages and disadvantages
(8:51) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(10:20) Spaceplane projects: historical context and current technology
(14:28) Funding challenges and venture capital interest in space industry
(17:14) Radian 1 spaceplane's rocket sled launch mechanism and specifications
(20:22) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(25:28) Reusability and refurbishment process of the Radian 1 spaceplane
(29:03) AssemblyAI - Get 100 free hours to start building at https://www.assemblyai.com/twist
(30:33) Radian 1 project updates: recent tests and future timeline
(39:00) Commercial model and government interest in horizontal launches
(42:38) Orbital launches: future demand and space economy implications
(44:49) Space launches: US and Chinese dominance, and potential for rapid cargo transport
(47:56) Private orbital flights: cost, feasibility, and space tourism
(53:19) Reducing orbital launch costs and the transformative potential of space access
*
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Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
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Timestamps:
(0:00) Alex and Jason kick off the news show!
(3:26) Overview of Harvard's AR glasses tech demo and club projects
(10:09) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(11:35) Discussing responsible tech use, privacy, and entrepreneurial aspirations
(18:30) Guests' academic focus and future in technology
(19:41) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(21:27) AR technology trends, practicality, and ethical considerations
(26:10) AI advancements, deepfakes, and AR in healthcare
(29:37) Washington Post - TWiST listeners can subscribe for just 50 cents per week for your first year at https://www.washingtonpost.com/twist
(31:06) Insights on young founders and the podcast's live format evolution
(31:58) Venture capital trends and Initialize Capital's restructuring
(39:28) Founders Fund and CRV developments, returning capital to LPs
(42:02) Analysis of scale insurgents and successful startup unicorns
(46:39) Secondary market opportunities and fund exit strategies
(53:00) New Twist 500 members: Snyk and Nym
(59:56) TikTok's impact on the music industry and content creators
(1:01:05) Investment discussions with Chef Reactions and TikTok creators*
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(29:37) Washington Post - TWiST listeners can subscribe for just 50 cents per week for your first year at https://www.washingtonpost.com/twist
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Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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Timestamps:
(0:00) Databricks’ Naveen Rao joins Alex Wilhelm
(8:54) Regulatory challenges and open-source AI
(10:02) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(13:57) Meta's Llama models and reinforcement learning
(19:46) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(20:55) Open vs. closed source AI models and advances
(28:09) Precision in AI and enterprise applications
(30:20) Beehiiv - Get 30 days free and 20% off your first 3 months at https://www.beehiiv.com/twist
(52:08) Tech incumbents' evolution and AI competition
(54:55) AI model sizes and synthetic data quality
(57:29) AI inspiration from biology and future innovation
(1:03:06) Databricks' growth trajectory and potential IPO
(1:04:25) Elliot Easterling of bonbon joins TWIST for a Jam with JCal.
(1:05:16) Bonbon.tech and the rewards platform overview
(1:14:44) Gamification strategies and user engagement
(1:22:18) Exploring growth opportunities and market expansion*
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Check out Databricks: https://www.databricks.com/
Check out Bonbon: https://bonbon.tech
Link to Newsom vetoes SB 1047 article: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cj9jwyr3kgeo
The short guide to understanding data intelligence from Databricks: https://www.databricks.com/blog/short-guide-understanding-data-intelligence
Mosaic AI Agent Framework post: https://www.databricks.com/blog/announcing-mosaic-ai-agent-framework-and-agent-evaluation
Data Intelligence Platform product tour: https://www.databricks.com/resources/demos/tours/horizontal/introducing-databricks-intelligence-platform?itm_data=demo_center
Mosaic AI new features and demo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=acIBdCOj88E
Unity Catalog GitHub: https://github.com/unitycatalog/unitycatalog
“Thinking Fast and Slow” by Daniel Kahneman summary on Medium - https://www.penguinrandomhouse.ca/books/89308/thinking-fast-and-slow-by-daniel-kahneman/9780385676533
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
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(30:20) Beehiiv - Get 30 days free and 20% off your first 3 months at https://www.beehiiv.com/twist
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Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
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Todays show:
Alex Wilhelm joins Jason to discuss the ongoing ILA strike and impact (2:34), Startup opportunities in port automation (39:49), CRV's $275M return to investors (55:33), OpenAI closing its $6.6 billion mega-round (1:12:07), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(2:34) The ILA strike overview and impact
(4:59) Technology and efficiency in global ports
(10:10) Notion - Try it for free today at https://notion.com/twist
(11:43) Labor, supply chain fragility, and union perspectives
(20:12) Future of port automation and union demands
(27:07) Fidelity Private Shares℠ - Visit https://www.fidelityprivateshares.com! Mention our podcast and receive 20% off your first-year paid subscription.
(28:27) Societal impacts of potential future labor changes
(38:07) Kyte - Download the Kyte app or book online at https://www.kyte.com and use code JASON to save 10% on your first rental.
(39:38) Startup opportunities in port automation and technology resistance
(45:13) Innovations in port tech
(50:11) Broader impact of automation on employment
(55:39) CRV's $275M return to investors
(1:00:06) Focusing on core strengths in venture capital
(1:02:16) Current market conditions and lack of late-stage IPOs
(1:08:26) Essential skills for venture capital investing and variability in VC fund performance
(1:12:07) OpenAI closing its $6.6 billion mega-round
(1:18:27) Audience Q&A
*
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Mentioned on the show:
https://ilaunion.org/ila-responds-to-usmxs-statement-that-distorts-the-facts-and-misleads-the-public/
https://www.gao.gov/assets/d24106498.pdf
https://ilaunion.org/ila-halts-negotiations-with-usmx-amid-automation-disputes/
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/how-much-do-dock-workers-make-longshoreman-salary/
https://www.nytimes.com/2024/10/02/technology/crv-vc-fund-returning-money.html
*
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X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
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(38:07) Kyte - Download the Kyte app or book online at https://www.kyte.com and use code JASON to save 10% on your first rental.
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
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Timestamps:
(1:18) Alex kicks off the show!
(2:27) Our Fund of Funds panel from Liquidity Summit 2024 take the stage.(2:54) Insights from Ben Choi on Fund of Funds(6:25) Emerging Manager Funds with Michael Downing
(9:47) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(13:38) Challenges for Emerging Managers in Venture Capital
(20:25) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://gusto.com/twist
(21:30) Venture Capital Performance with Seyonne Kang
(32:12) Runway - Sign up at https://runway.com/twist to get your first 3 months free.
(33:30) Monique Woodard on Raising a First Fund(38:35) Debunking Myths of Raising a First Fund(40:46) Importance of Individual vs. Institutional Investors(42:18) Building Relationships for Subsequent Funds(43:45) Identifying Your Ideal LP Persona(45:19) Leveraging Your Fund's Unique Strengths(49:24) Strategies for Fund 2 and Beyond*
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Check out Cake Ventures: https://www.cake.vc/
Check out Stepstone Group: https://www.stepstonegroup.com/
Check out Next Legacy Ventures: https://www.nextlegacy.com/
Check out MDSV Capital: https://www.mdsv.vc/
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X: https://x.com/stepstonegroup
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seyonne-kang-b283021/
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X: https://x.com/benjichoi
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bchoi/
*
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X: https://x.com/michaeldowning
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeldowning/
*
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X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:47) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(20:25) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://gusto.com/twist
(32:12) Runway - Sign up at https://runway.com/twist to get your first 3 months free.
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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Todays show:
Alex Wilhelm joins Jason to discuss AI regulation bill SB 1047 (1:46), the biggest supercycle today (6:18), OpenAI’s growth trajectory (25:20), the AR and VR technology evolution (48:51), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(1:46) AI regulation bill SB 1047
(2:34) Defining the AI supercycle
(6:18) Concurrent supercycles: Self-driving cars and fusion
(8:03) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(9:08) Detailed discussion on SB 1047's impact and reactions
(17:14) AI regulation in California: A broader perspective
(19:54) CloudDevs - Visit https://www.clouddevs.com/twist for an unbeatable offer on hiring elite LATAM talent today.
(21:01) Industry leaders' reactions to SB 1047 veto and open source in AI
(25:20) Rule-breaking in startup success and evaluating OpenAI's valuation
(36:47) Sprig - Visit https://www.sprig.com/twist to book a demo and get a $75 gift card.
(38:00) Infrastructure ownership for tech giants and the future of startups in AI
(48:51) AR and VR technology evolution and market potential
(55:38) AR glasses' impact on daily life and mental health
(1:05:59) AR vs. VR applications and social implications
(1:07:27) Audience Q&A
*
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Mentioned on the show:
https://x.com/martin_casado/status/1840490481777770850
https://x.com/AndrewYNg/status/1840497561821651069
https://www.gov.ca.gov/2024/09/29/governor-newsom-announces-new-initiatives-to-advance-safe-and-responsible-ai-protect-californians/
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/newsletters/2024-09-29/meta-steps-up-pressure-on-apple-vision-with-orion-ar-glasses-and-cheaper-quest-3-m1nkq76p
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FKgJTJojVEw
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
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X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(8:03) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(19:54) CloudDevs - Visit https://www.clouddevs.com/twist for an unbeatable offer on hiring elite LATAM talent today.
(36:47) Sprig - Visit https://www.sprig.com/twist to book a demo and get a $75 gift card.
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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Todays show:
Udio’s David Ding joins Alex to discuss the inception of Udio (1:32), advancements in AI music creation (8:47), and the evolution of Udio’s AI model (10:32). Plus, David demos Udio’s capabilities live (32:47)!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Udio’s David Ding joins Alex
(1:32) David's journey and the inception of Udio
(4:26) AI music generation and user control over music elements
(7:52) .Tech Domains - Apply for the Jam Session with JCal contest today at https://jamwithjcal.tech
(8:47) Advancements in AI music creation and data annotation
(10:32) Evolution of Udio's AI models and early versions
(14:59) Udio's target audience and the future of AI in music
(20:06) Udio's potential DAW integration and music production terms
(21:52) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(23:17) Udio's funding and business model
(27:11) Financial discipline and GPU cost efficiency at Udio
(31:28) Brave Search API - Get started for free at https://www.brave.com/jason
(32:47) GPU-based compute challenges and a live Udio demo
(48:03) Udio's user interface, engagement, and community insights
(49:57) Udio's growth, virality, and competitive stance
(53:27) Udio's model quality and expansion roadmap
*
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Check out Udio: https://www.udio.com
*
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X: https://x.com/daviddingai
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-fengning-ding-053b1282
*
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
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Thank you to our partners:
(7:52) .Tech Domains - Apply for the Jam Session with JCal contest today at https://jamwithjcal.tech
(21:52) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(31:28) Brave Search API - Get started for free at https://www.brave.com/jason
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Timestamps:
(0:00) Teaser of today’s Liquidity Summit talk from Phil Deutch.
(1:29) Alex kicks off the show.
(2:11) Jason introduces Phil Deutch at the Liquidity Summit 2024
(3:52) Phil Deutch’s talk “Data Centers & Energy: A First Principles Understanding of Investment Opportunities & Challenges”
(4:39) Data center power demands and the impact on energy demand
(7:30) The complexity of energy generation and distribution
(9:24) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(10:55) Electricity generation in the US, transmission, and distribution challenges
(15:17) Market opportunity for faster electricity delivery and sustainability challenges
(20:08) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(21:14) The nuclear power debate, role of AI and batteries in energy management
(25:55) Consumer awareness and recent outages' impact on energy consumption
(29:16) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(30:39) Audience questions on the transition to AI and EV adoption challenges
(34:09) Future innovations in energy: Solar, storage, and the potential for free electricity
*
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Check out NGP Energy Capital: https://ngpenergy.com/
*
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X: https://x.com/pdeutch
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philip-deutch-21a76a6/
*
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X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm/
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Thank you to our partners:
(9:24) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(20:08) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(29:16) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
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*
Follow TWiST:
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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*
Todays show:
Alex Wilhelm joins Jason to discuss OpenAI CTO’s departure (2:03), DOJ AI compliance guidelines (9:11), current trends in tech M&A (19:15), and much more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(2:03) Breaking news: OpenAI CTO departure and speculation
(8:17) Linear - Streamline issues, projects, and product roadmaps in a tool your team will actually enjoy using. Get 25% off at https://www.linear.app/twist
(9:11) DOJ AI compliance guidelines
(17:52) Oracle - Try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist
(19:15) Current state and trends in tech M&A
(29:13) Liquidity, market trust, and the move towards a cashless society
(36:05) Fundrise - Sign up today at https://www.fundrise.com/TWIST
(37:21) Startup funding, valuations, and disciplined fundraising
(50:09) Instacart's valuation journey and venture capital challenges
(53:25) Optimism for the AI-driven business super cycle
(55:36) The future of labor: Skilled trades vs. knowledge workers
(1:02:03) Trends in apprenticeships, college enrollment, and geographic arbitrage
(1:08:24) Startup opportunities in vocational training and alternative education models
(1:11:09) Google's career certificates initiative
(1:14:16) Job expectations and the reality for young professionals
(1:15:42) Tenet Media controversy
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Mentioned on the show:
https://www.cnbc.com/2024/09/16/the-toolbelt-generation-why-teens-are-losing-faith-in-college.html
https://globalventuring.com/corporate/exit/exits-corporate-backed-startups-august-2024
https://www.wsj.com/articles/justice-department-pushes-companies-to-consider-ai-risks-116cfcf7?mod=hp_minor_pos11
https://www.ft.com/content/78b7e7a7-7428-4c5e-bfa2-0921c9d6cd25
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X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
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(8:17) Linear - Streamline issues, projects, and product roadmaps in a tool your team will actually enjoy using. Get 25% off at https://www.linear.app/twist
(17:52) Oracle - Try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist
(36:05) Fundrise - Sign up today at https://www.fundrise.com/TWIST
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Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
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Todays show:
Alex Wilhelm joins Jason to discuss Amazon's return to office (RTO) policy (11:27), Lina Khan’s 60 minutes (31:09), Apple's new iOS features (48:32), Microsoft's big nuclear deals (1:05:25), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(2:14) Viral tweet from Harry Stebbings about venture capital and entrepreneurship
(4:38) Discussion on the balance between luxury and grit in entrepreneurship
(9:29) Cleaning up the excesses in the industry
(9:58) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(11:27) Amazon's return to office (RTO) policy and its implications
(20:11) Potential impact of RTO on Amazon's innovation and stock price
(20:55) Coda - Empower your startup with Coda’s Team plan for free—get 6 months at https://www.Coda.io/twist
(22:25) Amazon's use of Gen AI to reduce the need for developers
(24:32) Amazon's M&A strategy and competitive positioning
(29:39) Google Cloud - Accelerate your startup journey with the Google for Startups Cloud Program. Apply at https://startups.google.com/twist(31:09) Lina Khan, antitrust enforcement, and market competition
(45:49) Specific anti-competitive behaviors in tech industry and potential solutions
(48:32) Apple's new iOS features and their impact on productivity tools
(53:00) Siri's evolution and improved AI capabilities in iOS
(57:32) The concept of "getting Sherlock'd" and its impact on startups
(59:08) Apple's AI advancements and their implications for OpenAI
(1:05:05) The potential challenges of AI dominance in OS-level interfaces
(1:05:25) Microsoft's involvement in nuclear power and its significance
(1:10:30) The importance of energy independence for AI development
(1:15:43) Audience question: Return to office in tech vs. other industries
(1:18:11) Audience question: App store rules and market share
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(20:55) Coda - Empower your startup with Coda’s Team plan for free—get 6 months at https://www.Coda.io/twist
(29:39) Google Cloud - Accelerate your startup journey with the Google for Startups Cloud Program. Apply at https://startups.google.com/twist
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Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
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Todays show:
Pie.org’s Ryan Hudson joins Jason to discuss consumer behavior (5:57), Honey’s business strategy (10:47), Pie’s consumer ad control (14:20), legal considerations of ad blocking (27:21), and more!
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Timestamps:
(0:00) Pie.org’s Ryan Hudson joins Jason
(2:30) History and initial reactions to Honey
(5:57) Consumer behavior, trust, and conversion rates
(9:17) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(10:43) Merchant reactions and Honey's business strategy
(14:20) Future of Pie and consumer ad control
(17:50) Demo of Pie browser extension
(20:35) Economic implications of ad blocking
(27:23) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
(28:34) Legal considerations of ad blocking
(30:20) Apple's privacy stance and ad reintroduction strategies
(36:22) Beehiiv - Get 30 days free and 20% off your first 3 months at https://www.beehiiv.com/twist
(37:50) Funding decisions and advice for young founders
(43:40) Company values and political engagement
(49:08) Remote work and the value of in-person interactions
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(27:23) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
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Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
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Todays show:Wilson Sonsini Partner Becki DeGraw joins Jason on the latest edition of Startup Legal Basics! In this episode, they break down challenges in distressed companies(1:04), pay-to-play scenarios (2:31), the importance of a market check in financing (9:25), and high-profile legal and ethical issues (18:03).
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Timestamps:
(00:00) Wilson Sonsini partner Becki DeGraw joins Jason
(1:04) Distressed companies and VCs leaving the board; Challenges in distressed companies
(2:31) Insider-led down rounds and pay-to-play scenarios
(7:07) Legal actions and stockholder lawsuits in successful turnarounds
(9:25) The importance of a market check in financing; Voting against board decisions
(18:03) Character and incentives in the startup ecosystem; High-profile legal and ethical issues
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Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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Todays show:
Comma’s Harald Schäfer joins Jason to discuss the future of autonomous driving, Comma’s open-source approach (7:24), how camera-based systems stack up against lidar (20:52), self-driving technology developments globally (32:55), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Comma’s Harald Schäfer joins Jason
(2:02) Comma's approach to self-driving technology
(4:06) Cost, installation, and car manufacturers' reactions to Comma
(6:38) .Tech Domains - Apply for the Jam Session with JCal contest today at https://jamwithjcal.tech
(7:24) Open source and different approaches in autonomous driving
(13:08) Comparing Waymo, Tesla FSD, and comma AI's strategies
(20:52) Lidar vs. camera-based systems in autonomy and the advantages of camera-based systems over human drivers
(24:05) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(24:56) Autonomous vehicle rollout timeline and predictions
(27:33) Open source projects and major car manufacturers' adoption
(31:25) Micro1 - Visit https://www.micro1.ai/twist to open a talent search and get a 2 week free trial per hire.
(32:55) Self-driving technology developments in China
(34:25) Tesla's anticipated announcements and AI integration in robotics
(39:48) Accessing and contributing to open-source self-driving projects
(41:01) Data sharing and transparency in autonomous driving
(43:14) Global adoption and demographics of self-driving technology
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(31:25) Micro1 - Visit https://www.micro1.ai/twist to open a talent search and get a 2 week free trial per hire.
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
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Timestamps:
(0:00) Recall’s Sankari joins Jason
(4:15) Explanation of automatic taxonomy creation and adding content to Recall(8:11) Recall’s augmented browser feature and web content indexing
(10:26) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(14:39) B2B applications, multiplayer mode, and capturing institutional knowledge
(19:15) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://www.Lemon.io/twist
(20:40) AI costs for summarization and model preferences(22:08) Personalized learning features and Recall pricing strategy(26:10) The concept of luxury software and jamming on potential features(31:00) CommandAI - Visit https://www.command.ai/twist to get a custom live demo.
(32:34) LinkedIn integration and visual knowledge graph representation(35:26) Jason and Sanks play with the quiz section of Recall(40:43) Final thoughts on startup journey and investment opportunities
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(31:00) CommandAI - Visit https://www.command.ai/twist to get a custom live demo.
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Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
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Todays show:
Alex Wilhelm joins Jason to discuss OpenAI's latest model and implications (11:49), Uber's partnership with Waymo and its implications (38:16), Analyzing Mr. Beast's content creation and business culture (1:01:21). and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show.
(3:57) Highlights from the All-In Summit(9:16) Tackling media criticism and the state of journalism
(10:23) Washington Post - TWiST listeners can subscribe for just 50 cents per week for your first year at https://www.washingtonpost.com/twist
(11:49) Alex and Jason dive into OpenAI's latest model and implications(19:46) Examination of OpenAI's corporate structure and financing
(20:39) Brex. Get the business account trusted by 1 in 3 US startups at https://www.brex.com/twist24
(21:51) Further analysis of OpenAI's business model(27:08) OpenAI's valuation and perspectives on speculative investment
(30:26) AssemblyAI - Get 100 free hours to start building at https://www.assemblyai.com/twist
(32:07) The landscape of AI startup investments(35:20) How AI is enhancing developer productivity(36:33) AI's potential in consumer markets(38:16) Uber's partnership with Waymo and its implications(41:15) The realities of autonomous vehicle technology deployment(47:00) The government's role in autonomous vehicle tech and partnerships with big tech(52:26) Economic insights: Predictions on the Fed rate cut(56:26) The influence of interest rates on startups and investment strategies(58:52) Discussing cost of living adjustments and food delivery trends(1:00:44) Innovations in autonomous food preparation(1:01:21) Analyzing Mr. Beast's content creation and business culture(1:09:12) How large companies can maintain focus on goals
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Mentioned on the show:
OpenAI o1’s announcement: https://openai.com/index/learning-to-reason-with-llms/
OpenAI release article on The Verve: https://www.theverge.com/2024/9/12/24242439/openai-o1-model-reasoning-strawberry-chatgpt
Supermaven article: https://techcrunch.com/2024/09/16/ai-coding-assistant-supermaven-raises-cash-from-openai-and-perplexity-founders/
Twitter post from Michael Seibel: https://x.com/mwseibel/status/1835063692117103090
Waymo and Uber expand partnership: https://waymo.com/blog/2024/09/waymo-and-uber-expand-partnership/
Polymarket on Fed Interest Rates: https://polymarket.com/event/fed-interest-rates-september-2024?tid=1726496650092
Leaked Mr Beast doc: https://drive.google.com/file/d/11dV24Mda_kNEBCLtPtBomWG4IkngvQKK/view
Travis Kalanick | All-In Summit 2024 video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8j7lwauJN2s
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(20:39) AssemblyAI - Get 100 free hours to start building at https://www.assemblyai.com/twist
(30:26) Brex. Get the business account trusted by 1 in 3 US startups at https://www.brex.com/twist24
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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Todays show:
Meghan Reynolds takes the stage at Liquidity Summit 2024 to discuss the intricacies of raising capital and pitching to VCs. Meghan dives into many topics including the importance of relationships (3:07), fund size rationalization (20:36), market sentiment (25:55), and other crucial aspects of successful fundraising!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Meghan Reynolds takes the stage at Liquidity Summit 2024
(3:07) Meghan Reynolds’ talk “Relationship Advice: Of the LP / GP Sort”
(9:43) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(10:59) Client service in investor relations and fundraising strategies
(15:07) The complexity factor in raising capital
(19:19) Runway - Sign up at https://runway.com/twist to get your first 3 months free.
(20:36) Rationalizing fund size, securing re-ups, and worst pitching practices
(25:55) Market sentiment and single deal SPV dynamics
(29:34) Beehiiv - Get 30 days free and 20% off your first 3 months at https://www.beehiiv.com/twist
(31:02) VC allocations, private credit, and market dynamics
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(29:34) Beehiiv - Get 30 days free and 20% off your first 3 months at https://www.beehiiv.com/twist
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Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
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*
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason joins Pejman Nozad and Jason Shuman at the Liquidity Summit 2024.
(3:25) Pejman Nozad’s “How I Built a $100B Portfolio”
(10:42) .Tech Domains. Don’t miss our “Jam with JCal” contest! To apply and get more details go to https://jamwithjcal.tech/
(21:34) Fidelity Private Shares. Visit https://www.fidelityprivateshares.com/ Mention our podcast and receive 20% off your first-year paid subscription.
(23:50) Jason joins Pejman for a fireside chat.
(36:33) Oracle. Save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist
(38:02) Jason Shuman’s “The New Power Law: Good vs Great Funds”:
Subscribe to the TWiST newsletter: https://www.ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
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Check out Primary: https://www.primary.vc/
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Follow Pejman Nozad:X: https://x.com/pejmannozad
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pejman/
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Follow Jason Shuman:
X: https://x.com/JasonrShuman
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonshuman/
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Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
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Thank you to our partners:
(10:42) .Tech Domains. Don’t miss our “Jam with JCal” contest! To apply and get more details go to https://jamwithjcal.tech/
(21:34) Fidelity Private Shares. Visit ****https://www.fidelityprivateshares.com/ Mention our podcast and receive 20% off your first-year paid subscription.
(36:33) Oracle. Save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist
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Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
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Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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Follow TWiST:
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at https://www.vanta.com/twist
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
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Todays show:
Boom Supersonic’s Blake Scholl joins Jason to discuss the future of supersonic flight (1:18), Boom's vision and test flights (9:25), the evolution of hardware startups (22:29), the future of autonomous aviation (1:17:06), and much more!
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Timestamps:
(0:00) Boom Supersonic’s Blake Scholl joins Jason
(1:18) Commercial flight speed & Concorde history
(8:34) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(9:25) Boom's XB-1 test flights and airline partnerships
(15:04) Pricing, market comparison, and venture capital's view on hardware startups
(21:16) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(22:29) Evolution of startup market and hardware innovation
(29:03) Boeing's innovation decline and attracting talent to projects
(36:15) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(37:42) Working with tech legends and overcoming engine design challenges
(49:14) Cross-discipline innovation
(57:01) Learning from Air France 447 and cockpit safety design
(1:03:36) Cockpit technologies and the MH370 mystery
(1:11:30) Public perception of aviation risks and airport security impact
(1:17:06) The future of autonomous aviation
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Follow Blake:
X: https://x.com/bscholl
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blakescholl
Check out: https://boomsupersonic.com / https://x.com/boomaero
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Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
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Thank you to our partners:
(8:34) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(21:16) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(36:15) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
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Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Brave Search API. Get started for free at https://www.brave.com/jason
CLA. Get started now at https://www.claconnect.com
Sprig. Visit https://sprig.com/twist to book a demo and get a $75 gift card.
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Timestamps:
(0:00) Sara Mauskopf, CEO of Winnie joins Alex
(1:45) Winnie's evolution, pivot, and focus on childcare services(7:25) Building Winnie's database and reflections on company growth
(9:55) Brave Search API. Get started for free at https://www.brave.com/jason
(12:08) The value of transparency and growth metrics
(19:20) CLA. Get started now at https://www.claconnect.com/
(21:16) Market positioning, motivations, and goals in the childcare industry(23:30) Addressing gender dynamics and startup funding(27:34) Balancing investor expectations with business models
(29:43) Sprig. Visit https://sprig.com/twist ****to book a demo and get a $75 gift card.
(31:10) Profitability, operational efficiency, and managing costs(37:01) Marketing strategies, brand growth, and the impact of Google’s model(40:30) Adapting to changing childcare demands due to remote work(44:08) Efforts to reduce childcare costs and home-based business challenges(50:06) Balancing profitability with growth and venture capital experiences(54:00) SaaS pricing challenges and the impact of AI(58:22) Tech M&A, FTC regulations, and innovation policies
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Check out the TWIST500: twist500.com
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Check out: Winnie: https://winnie.com/
Check out 2024 Inc. 5000 list: https://www.inc.com/inc5000/2024
Check out the BLS statistics: https://www.bls.gov/cps/telework.htm#data
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Follow Sara:
X: https://x.com/sm
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/smausk/
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Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
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Thank you to our partners:
(9:55) Brave Search API. Get started for free at https://www.brave.com/jason
(19:20) CLA. Get started now at https://www.claconnect.com/
(29:43) Sprig. Visit https://sprig.com/twist to book a demo and get a $75 gift card.
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
LinkedIn Jobs. A business is only as strong as its people, and every hire matters. Go to https://www.linkedin.com/twist to post your first job for free. Terms and conditions apply.
Google Cloud. Accelerate your startup journey with the Google for Startups Cloud Program. Get up to $200K in Google Cloud credits – or up to $350K for AI startups – plus training and guidance. Apply at https://startups.google.com/twist
Beehiiv. Power your newsletters with AI tools, referral programs, and ad network features—all in one platform. Get 30 days free and 20% off your first 3 months at https://www.beehiiv.com/twist
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Todays show:
Circle’s Jeremy Allaire joins Alex Wilhelm to discuss the growth of stablecoins (49:06), stablecoin market infrastructure (22:23), and their impact on global financial systems (56:07), and more!
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Timestamps:
(0:00) Circle’s Jeremy Allaire joins Alex Wilhelm
(2:08) Jeremy's early career and the evolution of the internet
(5:28) Transition from Macromedia to Circle's founding
(12:10) LinkedIn Jobs - Go to https://www.linkedin.com/twist to post your first job for free.
(13:21) Bitcoin, stablecoins, and Circle's compliance
(20:53) Google Cloud - Get up to $200K in Google Cloud credits – or up to $350K for AI startups – plus training and guidance. Apply at https://startups.google.com/twist
(22:23) The current state and future of stablecoin market infrastructure
(28:07) Integrating stablecoins with traditional finance
(34:12) Beehiiv - Get 30 days free and 20% off your first 3 months at https://www.beehiiv.com/twist
(35:40) Stablecoins' impact on global financial systems
(41:30) Circle's business model, scalability, and blockchain potential
(49:06) Growth of USDC and other currency stablecoins
(51:10) USDC market cap trends and interest rates
(56:07) Stablecoins in the global financial system and US regulation
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Follow Jeremy:
X: https://x.com/jerallaire
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremyallaire
Check out: https://www.circle.com
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Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
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Thank you to our partners:
(12:10) LinkedIn Jobs - Go to https://www.linkedin.com/twist to post your first job for free.
(20:53) Google Cloud - Get up to $200K in Google Cloud credits – or up to $350K for AI startups – plus training and guidance. Apply at https://startups.google.com/twist
(34:12) Beehiiv - Get 30 days free and 20% off your first 3 months at https://www.beehiiv.com/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Notion. Notion Projects combines project management with your docs, knowledge base, and AI. Try notion projects for free at notion.com/twist
Brex. The financial stack founders can bank on. Brex knows cash is king for startups, so they built a banking experience that takes every dollar further. Get the business account trusted by 1 in 3 US startups at https://www.brex.com/twist24
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
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Timestamps:
(0:00) Tony Stubblebine of Medium joins Alex.
(3:10) The broken internet and ad-based models
(5:57) Impact of AI on content creation and platform quality
(10:01) Medium's curation and financial model
(11:18) Notion - Try notion projects for free at https://www.notion.so/twist
(18:23) Medium's growth, geographic expansion, and AI translation
(20:02) Brex - Get the business account trusted by 1 in 3 US startups at https://www.brex.com/twist24
(22:05) AI-driven media platforms and the impact of AI spam
(29:32) OpenPhone - TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(30:59) Medium's subscriber growth and financial milestones
(34:35) AI data exclusivity and challenges in forming training data cohorts
(41:26) Medium's venture scale potential, profitability, and mission
(45:17) CEO's mindset and financial scaling towards 10 million subscribers
(50:41) Tony's personal use of AI in his workflow
(53:24) Future of AI in practical applications and business model disruption
(57:09) Organizing content and the challenge of integrating different formats
(1:02:19) Growth potential of niche markets and Medium's independence
(1:06:23) Jam with JCal! Introduction to Ulan Abdurazakov and CorePod
(1:07:27) Corepod product discussion and go-to-market strategy
(1:17:23) Jason Calacanis's advice on testing and market validation
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Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
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Check out Medium: https://medium.com/
Check out CorePod: https://www.corepod.tech/
Enter the Jam with JCal contest: https://www.jamwithjcal.tech
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Follow Tony:
X: https://x.com/tonystubblebine
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonystubblebine/
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Follow Ulan
X: https://x.com/defoemark
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ulanbek-abdurazakov/
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
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Thank you to our partners:
(11:18) Notion - Try notion projects for free at notion.com/twist
(20:02) Brex - Get the business account trusted by 1 in 3 US startups at https://www.brex.com/twist24
(29:32) OpenPhone - TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Todays show:Wilson Sonsini Partner Becki DeGraw joins Jason on the latest edition of Startup Legal Basics! In this episode, they break down fundraising trends (1:33), the challenges of M&A (7:39), and the evolving regulations for tech companies (13:29).
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Timestamps:
(00:00) Wilson Sonsini partner Becki DeGraw joins Jason
(1:33) Fundraising trends and investor expectations
(3:57) Breakeven points and penny warrants
(7:39) M&A slowdown and regulatory challenges
(13:29) Proposals for M&A regulation reform
(16:08) Compliance costs and cybersecurity for startups
(19:58) Legal strategies for startups and data policies
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Check Out Wilson Sonsini: https://www.wsgr.com
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Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
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Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
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Follow Becki:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-degraw-639bbb62
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
NetSuite. The number one cloud financial system that unifies accounting, financial management, inventory, and HR into a single platform. Giving you ONE source of truth. Download the CFO’s Guide to AI and Machine Learning today! Visit https://www.netsuite.com/twist
Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers, get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://lemon.io/twist
AssemblyAI. Get maximum value from voice data with AssemblyAI.Build powerful products and features for your end users on the industry’s leading speech-to-text models. Get 100 free hours to start building at https://www.assemblyai.com/twist
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Todays show:
Superhuman’s Rahul Vohra joins Jason to discuss the evolution of Superhuman. They delve into Superhuman's onboarding strategy (11:17), live demos of Superhuman's AI features (27:37), and explore AI's impact on team management (52:07), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Superhuman’s Rahul Vohra joins Jason
(2:02) Rahul Vohra's background and Superhuman's pitch
(6:33) Evolution and early challenges of Superhuman
(9:59) NetSuite - Download the CFO’s Guide to AI and Machine Learning today! Visit https://netsuite.com/twist
(11:17) Superhuman's onboarding strategy and customer feedback importance
(20:55) New features in Superhuman 2.0 and multiplayer email
(26:00) AI's impact on podcast production
(26:16) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(27:37) Live demo of Superhuman 2.0
(38:38) AssemblyAI - Get 100 free hours to start building at https://www.assemblyai.com/twist
(40:08) Importance of documenting conversations and Superhuman for Sales
(44:17) Live demo of Superhuman's “Ask AI” feature
(52:07) AI's impact on productivity and team management
(58:27) AI tools for productivity
(1:07:26) AI's future as a chief of staff and email management
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
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Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
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Follow Rahul:
X: https://x.com/rahulvohra
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rahulvohra
Check out: https://superhuman.com
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:59) NetSuite - Download the CFO’s Guide to AI and Machine Learning today! Visit https://netsuite.com/twist
(26:16) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(38:38) AssemblyAI - Get 100 free hours to start building at https://www.assemblyai.com/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Timestamps:
(0:00) Sunny joins Jason to jump into AI demos.
(1:21) Analysis of Q4's impact on startups and Nvidia's market performance
(5:09) Chip design advancements and AI prevalence in startup technology
(8:12) Experiences with ChatGPT-4 and Google's Gemini in Gmail
(10:14) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(11:36) Discussion on generative AI: filtered vs. unfiltered content
(19:50) Vanta. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(20:03) Importance of SOC 2 compliance and AI's role in LinkedIn
(22:42) AI integration in Gmail and throwing AI at business problems
(25:28) AI personalization tools and grading AI email integration
(29:01) Micro1. Visit https://www.micro1.ai/twist to open a talent search and get a 2 week free trial per hire.
(32:22) Deep dive into Search GPT functionalities and Google's AI search evolution
(39:08) Practical AI search tests and Yelp's data integration
(43:17) Ethical considerations in personalized AI technology
(45:26) AI-powered product recommendations and monetization of AI models
(51:44) Legal challenges in AI and generation of web apps
(56:15) Exploring practical AI applications and Claude AI's app development
(1:00:14) The era of building your own apps and fast image generation tools
(1:02:12) Comparison of Playground and Canva, impact on graphic design
(1:04:28) Groq's itinerary creation and the future of user interfaces
(1:07:14) Closing remarks and acknowledgments
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
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LINKS:
Check out Gemini Gmail Chat: https://workspaceupdates.googleblog.com/2024/06/gemini-in-side-panel-of-gmail.html
Check out Search GPT: https://chatgpt.com/search
Check out Groq with Voice: https://groq.com
Check out Claude: https://claude.ai/
Checkout Playground: https://playground.com/design
*
Follow Sunny:
X: https://twitter.com/sundeep
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sundeepm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:(10:14) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(19:50) Vanta. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(29:01) Micro1. Visit https://www.micro1.ai/twist to open a talent search and get a 2 week free trial per hire.
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com/
Check out the TWIST500: twist500.com
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to https://www.squarespace.com/twist for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
LinkedIn Ads. To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to https://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
Brex. the financial stack founders can bank on. Brex knows cash is king for startups, so they built a banking experience that takes every dollar further. Get the business account trusted by 1 in 3 US startups at https://www.brex.com/twist24
*
Todays show:
Jason and Alex kick off episode 2000! They reflect on TWiST’s origins and early episodes (1:48), highlighting notable guests and memorable moments (22:31). They also share fan messages, and insights from cohosts (46:05), and wrap up celebrating standout moments (1:04:14).
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(1:48) The origins and early days of TWiST
(9:50) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(11:03) Recollections of the first TWiST episodes
(20:53) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(22:31) Highlighting notable guests and memorable early episodes
(30:33) Brex. Get the business account trusted by 1 in 3 US startups at https://www.brex.com/twist24
(32:02) More on standout guests and the TWiST studio evolution
(38:37) David Sacks makes his first appearance on TWiST
(46:05) Messages from TWiST fans and cohosts
(1:05:14) Celebrating standout moments and key highlights on the show
(1:28:02) A special message from the Launch team
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Mentioned on the show:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZX4fUYo6C0&list=PL24nOpPUQlbZcij2Jo-KNUpWFDSrrQKtH
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t3bmpMX2qQ4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SP7B0oWTR3o
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2cdrCYrZIvI
https://youtu.be/wM0pVE_b1KU?si=NM1pK-pz9tUQFOqr&t=1366
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=550X5OZVk7Y
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6VOQnK7O2To
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n1_z9oOdytA
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aM1DDVq3_vs
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TYA_vdHSD8w
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qwhP7K3bFRI
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3seTmyRbcHU
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ANGHOQ2Cqtc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HL2wWE27CUI
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BXEO3oJKINA
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=43MgbwQBDik
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SfJtIibCx78
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:50) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(20:53) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(30:33) Brex. Get the business account trusted by 1 in 3 US startups at https://www.brex.com/twist24
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Fidelity Private Shares℠. Manage your cap table and data room, get faster, more accurate 409A valuation and fully automate your next financing round. Visit https://fidelityprivateshares.com! Mention our podcast and receive 20% off your first-year paid subscription.
Google Cloud. Accelerate your startup journey with the Google for Startups Cloud Program. Get up to $200K in Google Cloud credits – or up to $350K for AI startups – plus training and guidance. Apply at https://startups.google.com/twist
Runway. Looking to up-level your financial planning Runway is the modern and intuitive way to model, plan, and align your business for everyone on your team. Sign up at https://runway.com/twist to get your first 3 months free.
*
Todays show:
Jason and Kelly kick off the Founder University startup pitch competition (00:00), then we hear from Eric Gilbert-Williams on The Public Bored (4:32), Matt Schwed on Speed AI (11:38), and Joe Tannorella on PodEngine (15:50). Finally, Jason awards a $25K investment, and details how to apply!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Kelly kick off the show
(4:32) Eric Gilbert-Williams pitches The Public Bored
(10:24) Fidelity Private Shares℠ - Visit https://fidelityprivateshares.com! Mention our podcast and receive 20% off your first-year paid subscription.
(11:38) Matt Schwed pitches Speed AI
(15:50) Joe Tannorella pitches PodEngine
(23:33) Google Cloud - Accelerate your startup journey with the Google for Startups Cloud Program. Apply at https://startups.google.com/twist
(25:03) Ranking the three companies
(29:12) Founders' experiences and learning outcomes at Founder University
(31:47) Runway - Sign up at https://runway.com/twist to get your first 3 months free.
(33:18) Q&A
*
Founder University: Apply here: https://www.founder.university
*
We are doing Founder Fridays meetups! Visit https://founderfridays.tech to learn more
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Eric:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-gilbert-williams
Check out: https://www.publicbored.com
*
Follow Matt:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattshwed
Check out: https://getspeed.ai
*
Follow Joe:
X: https://x.com/joetannorella
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joetannorella
Check out: https://podengine.ai
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:24) Fidelity Private Shares℠ - Visit https://fidelityprivateshares.com! Mention our podcast and receive 20% off your first-year paid subscription.
(23:33) Google Cloud - Accelerate your startup journey with the Google for Startups Cloud Program. Apply at https://startups.google.com/twist
(31:47) Runway - Sign up at https://runway.com/twist to get your first 3 months free.
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at https://www.vanta.com/twist
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
Lemon.io. Hire pre-vetted remote developers, get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
*
Todays show:
Alex Wilhelm joins Jason to discuss the arrest of Pavel Durov (2:10), national security concerns (13:54), and encryption debates (20:02). They also dive into G Squared raising $1B for it’s latest fund, IBM's activities in China, iPhone production shifts, more (55:50)!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(2:10) Breaking news: Arrest of Pavel Durov, implications, and legal issues
(13:02) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(13:54) National security concerns and French president's statement on Durov's arrest
(20:02) U.S. stance on encryption and the encryption debate
(30:27) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(31:53) Global perspectives on encryption, privacy, and tech platform power
(38:41) Lemon.IO - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(40:02) U.S. law enforcement, encrypted services, and social media censorship
(55:50) Lightning round: G Squared raising $1.1B for its latest fund and IBM in China
(1:11:06) Audience questions
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com/
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Mentioned on the show:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jean-michel-bernigaud-426a181a8/recent-activity/all
https://cointelegraph.com/news/telegram-issues-official-statement-on-pavel-durov-detention
https://x.com/EmmanuelMacron/status/1828077245606342672
https://x.com/Jason/status/1827488958512820448
https://www.apple.com/customer-letter
https://www.ft.com/content/b7bac796-c194-442a-95c8-204425435309
https://www.secondariesinvestor.com/secondaries-fundraising-more-than-doubles-to-hit-all-time-high
https://www.wsj.com/business/ibm-shuts-china-r-d-operations-in-latest-retreat-by-u-s-companies-b37cd9a0?st=7d9jarhfpzsugmm&reflink=desktopwebshare_permalink
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AXO3OsYCS0g&t=218s
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uWLjgs2CEyE
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(13:02) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(30:27) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(38:41) Lemon.IO - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Todays show:
Sunny joins Jason to dive into all things AI, including: utilizing ChatGPT for efficiency and quick answers (7:03, the future of AI applications and Claude demo (12:47), Flux demo (36:56). Runway Gen-3 Alpha (41:13), and new Jam with JCal with Tyce Herrman of Ulama.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Sunny joins Jason to jump in to AI demos.(1:24) Sundeep Madra on AI market trends and consumer adoption(3:31) AI-native interns and AI's role in career trajectories(7:03) Utilizing ChatGPT for efficiency and quick answers
(10:11) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(12:47) Future of AI applications and Claude demo
(19:44) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
(20:56) Operating systems and AI integration(22:20) Grok for real-time information and AI images of public figures(25:14) AI-generated content concerns and parody vs misinformation
(30:12) Linear - Streamline issues, projects, and product roadmaps in a tool your team will actually enjoy using. Get 25% off at https://linear.app/twist
(31:07) AI's impact on the 2024 election and content regulation(36:56) Introduction to Flux and demo of AI-generated images(41:13) AI's potential misuse in elections and Runway ML's new model(44:00) Creativity, fan films, and real-time editing advancements in AI(51:13) AI platforms for service industries and Mastertech AI applications(57:22) Funding opportunities for startups and closing remarks(1:01:55) Jam with JCal! Ulama introduction and software overview(1:04:34) AI in code compliance and architect feedback(1:07:45) Challenges in launching a standalone product and market potential(1:12:27) Strategies for architectural firm integration and marketing strategies
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
LINKS:
Check out Grok 2.0: https://x.com/i/grok
Check out Flux: https://replicate.com/black-forest-labs/flux-pro
@RyanMorrisonJer’s tweet about Midjourney and Flux: https://x.com/ryanmorrisonjer/status/1822637652501319684?s=42
Check out Runway Gen-3 Alpha: https://runwayml.com/research/introducing-gen-3-alpha
Check out Avoca: https://www.avoca.ai/
Check out MasterTech AI: https://www.mastertech.ai/
Check out the Jam with JCal contest: https://jamwithjcal.tech/
Check out Ulama: https://www.ulama.tech/
*
Follow Sunny:
X: https://twitter.com/sundeep
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sundeepm
*
Follow Tyce:X: https://x.com/tycecycle
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyceherrman/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:(10:11) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(19:44) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
(30:12) Linear - Streamline issues, projects, and product roadmaps in a tool your team will actually enjoy using. Get 25% off at https://www.linear.app/twist
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com/
Check out the TWIST500: twist500.com
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
Todays show:Wilson Sonsini Partner Becki DeGraw joins Jason on the latest edition of Startup Legal Basics! In this episode, they break down common legal oversights (5:26), risks of DIY legal documents (9:15), pro forma cap tables & ESOPS (18:31), and much more!
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Timestamps:
(00:00) Wilson Sonsini partner Becki DeGraw joins Jason
(1:13) Legal preparations for startups and the importance of early legal counsel
(5:26) Common Legal Oversights: Cap table, IP assignments, and employment agreements
(9:15) Risks of DIY legal documents and safes
(11:53) Cap tables and equity management
(15:49) Impact of mismanagement on legal and financial outcomes
(18:31) Pro forma cap tables and employee stock option plans (ESOPs)
(21:39) Preparing for mergers and acquisitions (M&A) scenarios
*
Check Out Wilson Sonsini: https://www.wsgr.com
Check Out: https://www.thisweekinstartups.com/basics
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com/
Check out the TWIST500: twist500.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Becki:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-degraw-639bbb62
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers, get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
.Tech Domains - Don’t miss our “Jam with JCal” contest! To apply and get more details go to https://jamwithjcal.tech brought to you by .tech domains.
CommandBar. Seamlessly integrate an AI-powered guide into your software, making navigation intuitive and interactive.Visit https://commandbar.com/twist to get a custom live demo.
*
Todays show:
Alex Wilhelm joins Jason to discuss AI on the blockchain (41:04), Waymo’s growth (29:27), tech layoffs (58:47), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(2:24) Bolt's fundraising controversy and business model
(8:24) CEO loans and board conflicts at Bolt
(11:25) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(12:46) Public vs. private equity borrowing and media integrity
(21:18) Technology media industry reflections
(28:32) .Tech Domains - Apply for the Jam Session with JCal contest today at https://jamwithjcal.tech
(29:27) Waymo's growth and autonomous vehicle market
(39:49) CommandBar - Visit https://commandbar.com/twist to get a custom live demo.
(41:04) Story raises $80M for blockchain-based IP network
(46:23) Stablecoins and SEC investigations
(58:47) The truth behind tech layoffs
(1:07:26) Audience questions
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Mentioned on the show:
https://x.com/pitdesi/status/1826262321045610846
https://techcrunch.com/2022/05/25/fintech-bolt-just-laid-off-over-100-employees-across-engineering-sales-and-marketing
https://www.pymnts.com/personnel/2023/one-click-checkout-startup-bolt-laying-off-10-of-workforce
https://www.reddit.com/r/SelfDrivingCars/comments/1co9loz/waymo_makes_now_50000_paid_trips_every_week_in_3
https://waymo.com/blog/2024/06/waymo-one-is-now-open-to-everyone-in-san-francisco
https://x.com/TechTekedra/status/1825910695311114384
https://techcrunch.com/2024/07/23/alphabet-to-invest-another-5b-into-waymo
https://www.cnn.com/2024/07/18/cars/china-baidu-apollo-go-robotaxi-anxiety-intl-hnk
https://www.comma.ai
https://autoware.org
https://openai.com/index/gpt-4o-fine-tuning
https://openai.com/index/conde-nast
https://apnews.com/article/authors-sue-anthropic-claude-ai-chatbot-chatgpt-copyright-54ae787070bdfc8019ab29b70487c02
https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/858877/000119312524200636/d878533d8k.htm
https://techcrunch.com/2024/08/20/cisco-employees-face-a-month-of-silence-ahead-of-second-layoff-in-2024
https://www.theverge.com/2024/8/1/24210656/intel-is-laying-off-over-10000-employees-and-will-cut-10-billion-in-costs
https://layoffs.fyi
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(11:25) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(28:32) .Tech Domains - Apply for the Jam Session with JCal contest today at https://jamwithjcal.tech
(39:49) CommandBar - Visit https://commandbar.com/twist to get a custom live demo.
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Coda. Coda empowers your startup by bringing words, tables, and teams together. Strategize, plan, and track goals effectively with all your valuable data in one place. Go to https://www.Coda.io/twist to get started for FREE and get 6 free months of the Team plan.
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at https://www.vanta.com/twist
Fundrise provides access to diversified portfolios of private real estate to all investors with their industry leading, easy to use platform. Sign up today at https://fundrise.com/TWIST
*
Todays show:
Alex Wilhelm joins Jason to discuss venture capital fund performance (15:02), potential big tech breakups (41:14), SF Standard piece analysis on Ben and Felicia Horowitz (47:04), startup shutdowns (1:11:28), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(5:31) Discussion on productivity and browsers with ChatGPT-4
(10:21) Coda - Empower your startup with Coda’s Team plan for free—get 6 months at https://www.Coda.io/twist
(11:54) Debate on regulations in the U.S.
(15:02) Deep dive into venture capital fund performance, IRR, and DPI
(25:37) Strategy of David Clark's fund of funds
(27:16) Realities of investing in venture capital
(30:02) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(30:53) Venture capital performance impact on LPs and future fundraising
(34:23) Consequences for new and small venture firms
(39:24) Fundrise - Sign up today at https://fundrise.com/TWIST
(41:14) Analysis of antitrust issues and potential big tech breakups
(45:29) Search engine market competition strategies
(46:19) Venture capital market stress and its effects on VC behavior
(47:04) SF Standard piece analysis on Ben and Felicia Horowitz
(59:12) Venture capital rivalries and media narratives
(1:03:03) Discussion on US deficit, economic policies, and election outcomes
(1:11:28) Startup shutdowns, failure rates, and positive venture capital data
(1:17:02) Reflections on resilience during tough economic times
(1:20:08) Audience questions
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com/
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Mentioned on the show:
https://x.com/daveclark85/status/1825448801672327229
https://sfstandard.com/2024/08/16/felicia-ben-horowitz-party-switch
https://archive.is/xgHUv
https://carta.com/blog/vc-fund-performance-q1-2024
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:21) Coda - Empower your startup with Coda’s Team plan for free—get 6 months at https://www.Coda.io/twist
(30:02) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(39:24) Fundrise - Sign up today at https://fundrise.com/TWIST
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
CLA. Innovation takes balance. CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors can help you get from startup to where you want to end up. Get started now at https://www.CLAconnect.com/tech
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
*
Todays show:
David Weisburd hosts Elad Gil, David York, and Jason Calacanis to discuss recession fears (2:15), new investment trends (24:44), geographic and talent concentration in the startup sector (56:48), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) David Weisburd intros Elad Gil, David York, and Jason Calacanis
(2:15) Recession fears and their effects on Silicon Valley and startups
(5:18) AI market segments, enterprise adoption, and SaaS spending slowdown
(10:55) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(12:19) Private equity, tech buyouts, and excess capital management
(19:35) AI-driven buyouts and efficiency improvements
(23:09) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech
(24:44) New investment trends and key startup ecosystems
(28:10) Founder inspiration and the impact of competitive ecosystems
(30:06) Role of accelerators in early-stage investing and startup formation
(34:16) Layoffs, FIRE movement, and FTC ruling on non-competes
(37:21) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(38:48) Liquidity and challenges for LPs in incubators and accelerators
(56:48) Geographic and talent concentration in the startup sector
(1:02:32) Tech hub movements, office culture, and remote vs. in-office work trends
*
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Check out the TWIST500: https://twist500.com
*
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Mentioned on the show:
https://www.reuters.com/markets/us/futures-slide-amazon-intel-forecasts-disappoint-jobs-data-awaited-2024-08-02
https://www.boringbusinessnerd.com/post/top-startup-accelerators
*
Follow Elad:
X: https://x.com/eladgil
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eladgil
Check out: https://eladgil.com
*
Follow David York:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-york-2407295
Check out: https://ttcp.com/
*
Follow David Weisburd:
X: https://twitter.com/DWeisburd
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dweisburd
Check out: https://10xcapital.com
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:55) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(23:09) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech
(37:21) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Todays show:
Jason sits down with James Hicks to discuss the unique aspects of Final Boss Sour's products and marketing (3:25), the future of commerce, influencers, and retailers' adaptations (23:12), followed by a discussion with Rae Lambert about River's software platform and community management best practices (46:16), high-end memberships, landing lighthouse customers, and influencer engagement (1:04:35) .
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason kicks off today’s show with guests James Hicks and Rae Lambert.
(3:25) Discussing the appeal and unique aspects of Final Boss Sour's products
(7:25) Better-for-you products and social media strategies
(9:40) .Tech Domains - Apply for the Jam Session with JCal contest today at https://jamwithjcal.tech
(10:50) Potential of TikTok for social shopping and influencer monetization
(21:04) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist
(23:12) Future of commerce, influencers, and retailers' adaptations
(30:00) Video game tie-ins and product development logistics
(37:22) Experiential retail and pop-up concepts
(38:36) Washington Post - TWiST listeners can subscribe for just 50 cents per week for your first year at https://www.washingtonpost.com/twist
(40:04) Ray Lambert and community building with River
(46:16) River's software platform and community management best practices
(52:16) Business models, monetization strategies, and paid events
(1:00:00) Community roles, expansion and engaging with fans
(1:03:19) Audience questions, community engagement insights, and hiring attempts
(1:04:35) High-end memberships, landing lighthouse customers, and influencer engagement
*
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Check out the TWIST500: https://twist500.com
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Check out Final Boss Sour: https://finalbosssour.com/
Check out Final Boss Sour TikTok Shop: https://www.tiktok.com/discover/tiktok-shop-final-boss
Check out Science: https://www.science-inc.com/
Check out River: https://www.getriver.io/
Check out Rae’s blog: https://www.raelambert.com/
Check our Founder Fridays: https://www.founderfridays.tech/
*
Follow James:
X: https://x.com/jamesghicks
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-hicks-43957512/
*
Follow Rae:
X: https://x.com/raechellambert
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raechel-lambert/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:40) .Tech Domains - Apply for the Jam Session with JCal contest today at https://jamwithjcal.tech
(21:04) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist
(38:36) Washington Post - TWiST listeners can subscribe for just 50 cents per week for your first year at https://www.washingtonpost.com/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Google Cloud. Accelerate your startup journey with the Google for Startups Cloud Program. Get up to $200K in Google Cloud credits – or up to $350K for AI startups – plus training and guidance. Apply at https://startups.google.com/twist
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at https://www.vanta.com/twist
AssemblyAI. Get maximum value from voice data with AssemblyAI. Build powerful products and features for your end users on the industry’s leading speech-to-text models. Get 100 free hours to start building at https://www.assemblyai.com/twist
*
Todays show:
Alex Wilhelm joins Jason to discuss the evolution of startup costs and media aggregation (3:17), media's addiction to Trump coverage (13:46), Polymarket and Perplexity partnership (40:08), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(3:17) Evolution of startup costs and media aggregation(7:47) Jason and Alex discuss Trump and Elon conversation(10:09) Google Cloud - Accelerate your startup journey with the Google for Startups Cloud Program. Apply at https://startups.google.com/twist(13:46) Media's addiction to Trump coverage
(20:04) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist(21:18) Trump's media strategies and speech analysis
(30:04) AssemblyAI - Get 100 free hours to start building at https://www.assemblyai.com/twist(31:17) Societal resistance to tech and the rise of self-driving cars(37:14) Self-driving technology's impact on Uber and Lyft(40:08) Polymarket and Perplexity partnership(47:34) Hacking capitalism and the FIRE movement(54:12) Perplexity's AI competition and the value of proprietary data(1:00:45) Reddit's traffic and monetization(1:07:35) European venture capital and the rise of unicorns(1:13:00) Work culture: Europe vs. US(1:16:11) Investing in AI startups and consulting opportunities
*
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Check out the TWIST500: https://twist500.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Mentioned on the show:
- Trump/X conversation transcript: https://turboscribe.ai/transcript/share/4422534834081521519/HWE18owsC2u8E5u2HpZNikyBdermlV2YSwGlTEPKJJw/donald-trump-and-elon-musk-full-transcript-august-12-2024-https-x-com-i-spaces-1nakepnklwoxl
- Jason’s argument concerning the Trump Bump: https://x.com/Jason/status/1823381839647756392
- WeRide IPO filing: https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1867729/000119312524197868/d343706df1a.htm
- Alex’s notes on WeRide: https://www.cautiousoptimism.news/p/inside-werides-ipo-filing-and-the
- Perplexity + Polymarket deal: https://techcrunch.com/2024/08/12/prediction-market-polymarket-partners-with-perplexity-to-show-news-summaries/
- Polymarket Dune data: https://dune.com/rchen8/polymarket
- Balderton raises $1.3B: https://sifted.eu/articles/balderton-1-3bn-fundraise-news
- PitchBook data concerning recent European VC activity: https://pitchbook.com/news/reports/q2-2024-european-venture-report
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
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Thank you to our partners:
(10:09) Google Cloud - Accelerate your startup journey with the Google for Startups Cloud Program. Apply at https://startups.google.com/twist
(20:04) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(30:04) AssemblyAI - Get 100 free hours to start building at https://www.assemblyai.com/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at https://www.vanta.com/twist
.Tech Domains - Don’t miss our “Jam with JCal” contest! To apply and get more details go to https://jamwithjcal.tech brought to you by .tech domains.
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
*
Todays show:
Jason and Kelly kick off the Founder University startup pitch competition (00:00). We hear from Pablo on Big Rentals (4:18), Brittany on Where2Wheel (12:28), Ardalan on MyLens (21:31), and Mariano on Prosperous AI (29:07). Finally, Jason awards a $25K investment (38:34), and details how to apply!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Kelly kick off the show
(4:18) Pablo Fernandez pitches Big Rentals
(11:37) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(12:28) Brittany Peregoff pitches Where2Wheel
(20:10) .Tech Domains - Apply for the Jam Session with JCal contest today at https://jamwithjcal.tech
(21:31) Ardalan Mirshani pitches MyLens
(29:07) Mariano Apodaca pitches Prosperous AI
(35:07) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(36:33) Review of the four startups
(40:44) Q&A
*
Founder University: Apply here: https://www.founder.university
*
We are doing Founder Fridays meetups! Visit https://founderfridays.tech to learn more
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Follow Pablo:
X: https://x.com/directedbypablo
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pablofernandezorg
Check out: https://BigRentals.com
*
Follow Brittany:
X: https://x.com/bperegoff
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittany-peregoff-2134092b
Check out: https://where2wheel.com
*
Follow Ardalan:
X: https://x.com/ardalanmirshani
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mirshani
Check out: https://mylens.ai
*
Follow Mariano:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariano-apodaca-45b07a16a
Check out: https://prosperousprocess.ai
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(11:37) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(20:10) .Tech Domains - Apply for the Jam Session with JCal contest today at https://jamwithjcal.tech
(35:07) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Todays show:Wilson Sonsini Partner Becki DeGraw joins Jason on the latest edition of Startup Legal Basics! In this episode, they break down the current state of startup funding (0:37), anti-dilution provisions (7:11), re-incentivizing management teams (16:23), and much more!
*
Timestamps:
(00:00) Wilson Sonsini Partner Becki DeGraw joins Jason
(0:37) Market update: Current state of startups and funding
(1:21) Consolidated investment trends and the venture capital slowdown
(4:23) The importance of due diligence, runway, and down round impacts
(7:11) Anti-dilution provisions and strategies for investor communication
(16:23) Re-incentivizing management teams and insider-led funding scenarios
(23:46) Importance of investor relations and board management
*
Check Out Wilson Sonsini: https://www.wsgr.com
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com/
Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
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Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
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Follow Becki:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-degraw-639bbb62
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to https://www.squarespace.com/twist for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
CommandBar. Seamlessly integrate an AI-powered guide into your software, making navigation intuitive and interactive.Visit https://www.commandbar.com/twist to get a custom live demo.
Brex. the financial stack founders can bank on. Brex knows cash is king for startups, so they built a banking experience that takes every dollar further. Get the business account trusted by 1 in 3 US startups at https://www.brex.com/twist24
*
Todays show:
Alex leads us into two great talks from Liquidity Summit 2024.
First Jason sits down for a one-on-one with Valor’s Antonio Gracias (1:38), followed by a great talk with Gavin Baker of Atreides (39:01)
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Teaser of today’s Liquidity Summit talks from Alex.
(1:13) Alex kicks off the show.
(1:38) Valor’s Antonio Gracias joins Jason
(4:26) Unbiased data and business models in AI
(10:02) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(11:14) Achieving AGI and robots in real-world applications
(14:26) Venture capital dynamics and innovation
(18:09) Athena case study: Investor operational support
(22:05) CommandBar - Visit https://www.commandbar.com/twist to get a custom live demo.
(23:04) Traditional venture playbook and crossover hedge funds
(28:33) US balance sheet implications and emerging entrepreneurship regions
(33:39) Immigration policy's role in recruitment
(36:19) Investing in socially impactful companies
(38:09) Brex - Get the business account trusted by 1 in 3 US startups at https://www.brex.com/twist24
(39:01) Atreides Management’s Gavin Baker joins Jason
(47:38) The importance of investing in relationships
(54:32) Resilience in public equity investing and learning from failure
(1:00:29) AI adoption differences between startups and enterprises
(1:02:32) America's innovation through resilience and immigration
(1:03:43) Google and Apple's AI strategies and infrastructure
(1:11:32) Meta's strategic moves in search and the metaverse
*
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Check out Valor: https://www.valorep.com/
Check out Atreides: https://atreidesmgmt.com/
Follow Antonio:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antonio-p-gracias
Follow Gavin:
X: https://x.com/GavinSBake
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gavinbaker-portfoliomanager/
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:02) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(22:05) CommandBar - Visit https://www.commandbar.com/twist to get a custom live demo.
(38:08) Brex - Get the business account trusted by 1 in 3 US startups at https://www.brex.com/twist24
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Oracle - Oracle Cloud Infrastructure, or OCI, is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. Save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist
Intercom - Intercom’s AI-first service is the best thing to happen to your customers since you.TWIST listeners can get 90% off Intercom’s platform at https://www.intercom.com/twist
Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers, get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://www.Lemon.io/twist
*
Todays show:
We are kicking off our coverage of the TWiST500 with three fantastic founders: Kyle Hanslovan of Huntress (11:44),
Olivia Joslin and Toshit Panigrahi of TollBit (36:40), and Tamar Bar-Ilan of Cyera (56:44).
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introducing three founder interviews from our TWiST500!
(1:23) Huntress CEO, Kyle Hanslovan joins Alex.
(2:04) Celebrating a milestone in ARR and discussing growth strategies
(4:19) Impact of cybersecurity incidents on Huntress
(10:30) Oracle - Try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill at
at https://www.oracle.com/twist
(11:44) Huntress's services for SMBs and endpoint detection and response
(20:09) Intercom - TWIST listeners can get 90% off Intercom’s platform at https://www.intercom.com/twist
(21:46) Selling to SMBs: Challenges, strategies, and early lessons
(29:05) Addressing internal IT departments and IPO considerations
(35:12) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://www.Lemon.io/twist
(36:40) TollBit’s Olivia Joslin and Toshit Panigrahi join Alex.
(37:38) Tollbit's early development and fundraising journey
(41:03) Media readiness and increasing publisher onboarding
(50:31) Flexible pricing models and expanding data types for AI partners
(56:44) Tamar Bar-Ilan of Cyera joins Alex.
(57:23) Cyera and its data security mission
(1:04:07) Overview of Cyera’s data platform and recent funding
(1:08:53) Company growth, AI adoption, and demand drivers
(1:17:52) Encryption's role in data security and future IPO plans
*
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Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Check out Huntress: https://www.huntress.com/
Check out TollBit: https://tollbit.com/
Check out Cyera: https://www.cyera.io/
*
Follow Olivia from TollBit:
X: https://x.com/oliviajoslin
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-joslin-13a9a4a2/
*
Follow Toshit from TollBit:
X: https://x.com/tollbitofficial
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toshit-panigrahi-a6496076/
*
Follow Kyle from Huntress:
X: https://x.com/KyleHanslovan
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylehanslovan/
*
Follow Tamar from Cyera:
X: https://x.com/cyera_io
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tamar-bar-ilan-67bb481a7
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:30) Oracle - Try OCI and save up to 50% on your cloud bill at https://www.oracle.com/twist
(20:09) Intercom - TWIST listeners can get 90% off Intercom’s platform at https://www.intercom.com/twist
(35:12) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://www.Lemon.io/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at https://www.vanta.com/twist
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
DevSquad. DevSquad helps startups design better products. If you need UI and UX expertise and don’t want to hire an entire design team, head to http://devsquad.com/startups and book a call. Mention that you are coming from TWiST to get 10% off.
*
Todays show:
Josh Reeves joins Alex Wilhelm to discuss building a product people love (21:11), SMB challenges (23:56), growth strategies (36:47), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Josh Reeves joins Alex Wilhelm
(2:16) Josh's previous startups and the early days of web development
(6:26) Transition to digital solutions and security for small businesses
(10:31) Gusto's growth, success metrics, and market penetration
(13:38) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(14:30) Gusto's North Star, marketing strategies, and channel growth
(21:11) Building a product people love with good unit economics
(22:29) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(23:56) Challenges of selling to SMBs and Gusto's product expansion
(28:50) Maintaining simplicity in product development
(35:18) DevSquad - Visit https://www.devsquad.com/startups, book a call, and mention TWIST for 10% off!
(36:47) Ensuring product quality and the role of organic growth in marketing
(44:39) Competitive landscape in payroll and HR space
(48:54) Gusto's potential fintech ventures and communication styles among founders
(56:07) IT spending growth among SMBs and international expansion
(1:00:16) Navigating competition and partnerships
(1:01:41) Diversification of go-to-market strategies
(1:03:31) Financial strategies and thoughts on going public
*
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Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Josh:
X: https://x.com/joshuareeves
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuareeves
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm
*
Thank you to our partners:
(13:38) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(22:29) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(35:18) DevSquad - Visit https://www.devsquad.com/startups, book a call, and mention TWIST for 10% off!
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to https://www.squarespace.com/twist for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
Google for startups. Accelerate your startup journey with the Google for Startups Cloud Program. Get up to $200K in Google Cloud credits – or up to $350K for AI startups – plus training and guidance. Apply at https://startups.google.com/twist
Brex. the financial stack founders can bank on. Brex knows cash is king for startups, so they built a banking experience that takes every dollar further. Get the business account trusted by 1 in 3 US startups at https://www.brex.com/twist24
*
Todays show:
David Weisburd hosts Dana Johns, Tom Loverro, and Jason Calacanis to discuss secondaries (2:37), VC leverage against startups (23:44), venture capital strategies (29:34), cybersecurity investments (38;03), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) David Weisburd intros Dana Johns, Tom Loverro, and Jason Calacanis
(2:37) Secondary pricing signaling a potential VC recovery
(9:53) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.squarespace.com/twist
(11:02) Timeframes, returns for secondary funds, and founders' secondary sales
(15:32) Increasing liquidity in private markets
(22:42) Google for startups. Accelerate your startup journey with the Google for Startups Cloud Program. Apply at https://startups.google.com/twist
(23:44) VC leverage against startups is near an all time high
(29:34) Venture capital strategies, succession planning, and valuation in the Goldilocks zone
(37:11) Brex. Get the business account trusted by 1 in 3 US startups at https://www.brex.com/twist24
(38:03) Cybersecurity investments, IPO window, and M&A market dynamics
(51:28) Lightning round on latest investments
*
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*
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*
Mentioned on the show:
https://pitchbook.com/news/articles/aging-vc-funds-secondary-stakes-market-limited-partner-exits
https://www.secondariesinvestor.com/blackstone-plans-to-launch-biggest-secondaries-fund-yet
https://news.crunchbase.com/cybersecurity/cybersecurity-funding-venture-wiz-ai-cyera
*
Follow Dana:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danasjohns
*
Follow Tom:
X: https://x.com/tomloverro
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomloverro
Check out: https://www.ivp.com/
*
Follow David:
X: https://twitter.com/DWeisburd
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dweisburd
Check out: https://10xcapital.com
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:53) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.squarespace.com/twist
(22:42) Google for startups. Accelerate your startup journey with the Google for Startups Cloud Program. Apply at https://startups.google.com/twist
(37:11) Brex. Get the business account trusted by 1 in 3 US startups at https://www.brex.com/twist24
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
CommandBar - Seamlessly integrate an AI-powered guide into your software, making navigation intuitive and interactive.Visit https://www.commandbar.com/twist to get a custom live demo.
.Tech Domains - Don’t miss our “Jam with JCal” contest! To apply and get more details go to https://www.jamwithjcal.tech brought to you by .tech domains.
Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers, get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://www.Lemon.io/twist
*
Todays show:
Antonio Gracias of Valor and Liran Zvibel of WEKA join Jason to discuss WEKA’s product market fit and real-world applications (13:49), energy solutions for future data centers and capital allocation strategy (30:07), and a Jam with JCal session with Uptrend AI’s Ramsey Shaffer (37:00).
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Antonio Gracias of Valor and Liran Zvibel of WEKA join Jason.
(2:52) Investment thesis for WEKA and discussion on investment strategies
(5:30) Investing in winners and the future of compute and AI technology
(10:14) CommandBar - Visit https://www.commandbar.com/twist to get a custom live demo.
(13:49) WEKA’s product market fit and real-world applications
(21:49) .Tech Domains - Apply for the Jam Session with JCal contest today at https://www.jamwithjcal.tech
(23:08) Innovative customers and technology behind the Las Vegas Sphere
(23:08) Innovative customers and technology behind the Las Vegas Sphere
(25:12) Impact of Weka’s technology on rendering and data management
(30:07) Energy solutions for future data centers and capital allocation strategy
(34:22) Weka's hiring and job opportunities
(35:34) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://www.Lemon.io/twist
(37:00) Jam with JCal winner Ramsey Schaffer, CEO of Uptrends AI.
(38:09) Ramsey’s pitch and Jason's feedback
(45:22) Importance of founder-led sales, pricing strategy, and UX improvements
(51:02) Engaging with customers and final thoughts on Uptrends ai*
Links from show:
Check out Valor Equity Partners: https://www.valorep.com
Check out WEKA: https://www.weka.io
Check out Stability AI: https://stability.ai
Check out the Sphere: https://www.thesphere.com
Enter the Jam with JCal contest: https://www.jamwithjcal.tech
Check out Uptrends AI:https://www.uptrends-ai.tech
*
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Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Liran:
X: https://x.com/liranzvibel
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liranzvibel/*
Follow Ramsey:
X: https://x.com/RamseyShaffer
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramseyshaffer/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:Timestamps:
(10:14) CommandBar - Visit https://www.commandbar.com/twist to get a custom live demo.
(21:49) .Tech Domains - Apply for the Jam Session with JCal contest today at https://www.jamwithjcal.tech
(35:34) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://www.Lemon.io/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Coda. Coda empowers your startup by bringing words, tables, and teams together. Strategize, plan, and track goals effectively with all your valuable data in one place. Go to https://www.coda.io/twist to get started for FREE and get 6 free months of the Team plan.
Intercom. Intercom’s AI-first service is the best thing to happen to your customers since you. TWIST listeners can get 90% off Intercom’s platform at https://www.intercom.com/twist
Micro1. Micro1 is an AI recruitment engine to hire world class engineers fast. Visit https://www.micro1.ai/twist to open a talent search and get a 2 week free trial per hire.
*
Todays show:
Etsy’s Josh Silverman joins Jason to discuss the marketplace business model (2:54), UX challenges (4:58), company operations during the pandemic (36:57), AI’s impact on team size (50:56), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Etsy’s Josh Silverman joins Jason
(2:54) The marketplace business model and Etsy's growth
(4:58) Maintaining Etsy's unique marketplace and UX challenges
(10:34) Defining handmade and GenAI art on Etsy
(11:53) Coda - Empower your startup with Coda’s Team plan for free—get 6 months at https://www.Coda.io/twist
(13:18) Preventing inauthentic sellers and the seller approval process
(20:14) Etsy's star seller program and the importance of artisanal items
(26:26) Intercom - TWIST listeners can get 90% off Intercom’s platform at https://www.intercom.com/twist
(27:55) Durable products, warranties, and customer loyalty
(35:47) Micro1 - Visit https://www.micro1.ai/twist to open a talent search and get a 2 week free trial per hire.
(36:57) Company operations during the pandemic and efficiency era
(44:11) Global talent, remote work, and productivity at Etsy
(50:56) AI's impact on team size, productivity, and customer support
(55:10) SEO strategies, organic traffic, and handling IP issues
*
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Check out the TWIST500: twist500.com
*
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*
Follow Josh:
X: https://x.com/jgsilverman
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuasilverman
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(11:53) Coda - Empower your startup with Coda’s Team plan for free—get 6 months at https://www.Coda.io/twist
(26:26) Intercom - TWIST listeners can get 90% off Intercom’s platform at https://www.intercom.com/twist
(35:47) Micro1 - Visit https://www.micro1.ai/twist to open a talent search and get a 2 week free trial per hire.
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
AssemblyAI. Get maximum value from voice data with AssemblyAI. Build powerful products and features for your end users on the industry’s leading speech-to-text models. Get 100 free hours to start building at https://www.assemblyai.com/twist
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at https://www.vanta.com/twist
Eight Sleep. Good sleep is the ultimate game changer. The newest generation of the pod, the Pod 4 ultra has arrived. Head to https://www.eightsleep.com/twist and use code TWIST to get $350 off the Pod 4 Ultra.
*
Todays show:
Alex Wilhelm joins Jason to discuss the end of the Wiz-Google deal (5:37), Spotify's performance (13:36), Universal Basic Income (UBI) (27:49), Meta's AI strategy (53:05), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(5:37) The end of the Wiz-Google deal
(12:24) AssemblyAI - Get 100 free hours to start building at https://www.assemblyai.com/twist
(13:36) Spotify's successful quarter
(21:41) Daniel Ek's strategy and Spotify's future risks
(26:57) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(27:49) Universal basic income (UBI)
(38:05) Eight Sleep - Head to https://www.eightsleep.com/twist and use code TWIST to get $350 off the Pod 4 Ultra.
(39:34) Findings and implications from a recent UBI study backed by Sam Altman
(48:22) The efficiency and impact of welfare programs
(53:05) Meta's AI developments
(59:58) Mark Zuckerberg's thoughts on Apple and open source AI
(1:06:50) Predictions for Meta's competitive moves
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com/
Check out the TWIST500: https://twist500.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Mentioned on the show:
https://techcrunch.com/2024/07/22/wiz-walks-away-from-googles-23b-acquisition-offer-read-the-ceos-note-to-employees
https://news.crunchbase.com/cybersecurity/cybersecurity-funding-venture-wiz-ai-cyera/#:~:text=In%20the%20second%20quarter%2C%20cyber,to%20startups%20in%20173%20deals
https://ai.meta.com/blog/meta-llama-3-1
https://x.com/rowancheung/status/1815763595197616155?t=1204
https://x.com/eldsjal/status/1815691024473166268?s=12
https://www.axios.com/2024/07/23/spotify-profit-q2-2024-earnings
https://x.com/smilleralert/status/1815372032621879628/photo/1
https://www.openresearchlab.org/findings/entrepreneurship
https://finance.yahoo.com/quote/SPOT
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-07-22/ubi-study-backed-by-openai-s-sam-altman-bolsters-support-for-basic-income
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(12:24) AssemblyAI - Get 100 free hours to start building at https://www.assemblyai.com/twist
(26:57) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(38:05) Eight Sleep - Head to https://www.eightsleep.com/twist and use code TWIST to get $350 off the Pod 4 Ultra.
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
LinkedIn Jobs. A business is only as strong as its people, and every hire matters. Go to https://www.linkedin.com/twist to post your first job for free. Terms and conditions apply.
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
*
Todays show:
Benchmark’s Sarah Tavel joins Jason to discuss strategies for competing in a changing venture landscape (9:12), the critical role of governance and accountability in startups (19:39), the relationship between hype, investment decisions, and startup promotion (55:20). and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Sarah Tavel joins Jason.
(1:38) Sarah Tavel, Benchmark Partner, on disciplined fund size and efficiency(5:06) Benchmark's commitment to founders and investment strategy(9:12) Strategies for competing in a changing venture landscape
(10:00) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(15:50) Valuations, ownership, and building deep relationships with founders
(18:30) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist(19:39) The critical role of governance and accountability in startups(28:36) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(30:16) The power of incremental improvements and executive limitations(34:32) Vanity metrics vs. building enduring value in startups(43:12) The consequences of choosing status over results in startup success(46:22) Building trust in leadership and the pressures of maintaining success(49:03) The importance of non-consensus bets and independent thinking(55:20) The relationship between hype, investment decisions, and startup promotion(58:19) In-person work vs. remote work: Impact on startup productivity(1:02:58) SaaS market challenges: Pricing, AI impact, and future models(1:07:33) Exciting AI investments and the transformative potential of new technologies(1:13:01) AI advancements, new use cases, and the competitive landscape(1:17:16) How incumbents and consumers are benefiting from AI advancements(1:19:15) Embracing AI in daily tasks and business operations*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com/
Check out the TWIST500: twist500.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Check out Benchmark: https://www.benchmark.com/*
Follow Sarah:
X: https://x.com/sarahtavel
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahtavel/Sarah’s Substack: https://www.sarahtavel.com/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:00) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(18:30) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist(28:36) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at https://vanta.com/twist
.Tech Domains. Don’t miss our “Jam with JCal” contest! To apply and get more details go to https://www.jamwithjcal.tech brought to you by .tech domains.
DevSquad. DevSquad helps startups design better products.
If you need UI and UX expertise and don’t want to hire an entire design team, head to https://www.devsquad.com/startups and book a call.
Mention that you are coming from TWiST to get 10% off.
*
Todays show:
True Anomaly’s Even Rogers joins Jason to discuss US competitiveness and innovation space and defense tech (8:53). They also dive into True Anomaly’s innovations (26:41), securing government contracts (31:41), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) True Anomaly’s Even Rogers joins Jason
(4:35) Space innovations and True Anomaly's tech
(8:01) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(8:53) Space defense, treaties, and infrastructure resilience
(17:01) Space warfare challenges and scenarios
(22:24) .Tech Domains - Apply for the Jam Session with JCal contest today at https://www.jamwithjcal.tech
(23:41) Securing government contracts for space and defense startups
(26:41) True Anomaly’s Jackal deployment
(31:41) Defense contracting: cost-plus vs. fixed price models
(34:19) International sales of defense technology and regulations on defense tech exports
(36:28) DevSquad - Visit https://www.devsquad.com/startups, book a call, and mention TWIST for 10% off!
(37:57) Defense industry's role in capitalism and global politics
(43:19) Taiwan-China conflict and its global impact
(46:49) The major concern with new weapons technology
(50:29) Jam With JCal contest winner Ana Malhotra from Rome joins Jason
(54:24) Jason’s feedback for Rome
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com/
Check out the TWIST500: twist500.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Even:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanst-aafl
Check out: https://www.trueanomaly.space
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(8:01) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(22:24) .Tech Domains - Apply for the Jam Session with JCal contest today at https://www.jamwithjcal.tech
(36:28) DevSquad - Visit https://www.devsquad.com/startups, book a call, and mention TWIST for 10% off!
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
AssemblyAI. Get maximum value from voice data with AssemblyAI. Build powerful products and features for your end users on the industry’s leading speech-to-text models. Get 100 free hours to start building at https://www.assemblyai.com/twist
CommandBar. Seamlessly integrate an AI-powered guide into your software, making navigation intuitive and interactive. Visit https://commandbar.com/twist to get a custom live demo.
*
Todays show:
David Weisburd hosts Jamie Rhode, Matthew Mulvey, and Jason Calacanis to discuss DPI coming to Silicon Valley (2:11), demographic data on the backgrounds of Unicorn founders (26:55), and trends for limited partners (36:10), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) David Weisburd intros Jamie Rhode, Matthew Mulvey, and Jason Calacanis
(2:11) DPI, Wiz acquisition, and economic impacts on distributions
(5:48) Consistent vintage exposure and proactive DPI management strategies
(8:55) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(10:22) Sequoia's liquidity approach and LP needs in venture capital
(17:13) The role of emerging managers and secondary markets in VC
(25:44) AssemblyAI - Get 100 free hours to start building at https://www.assemblyai.com/twist
(26:55) Unicorn founder demographics and underdog success
(35:05) CommandBar. Visit https://commandbar.com/twist to get a custom live demo.
(36:10) LP preferences, the challenges for emerging managers, and democratizing venture investments
(50:54) The decline of first-time funds, motivations for fund creation, and innovations in fundraising
(51:56) Venture portfolio management with AI and technology adoption parallels
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com/
Check out the TWIST500: https://twist500.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Mentioned on the show:
https://www.axios.com/2024/07/15/sequoia-capital-stripe
https://techcrunch.com/2024/03/27/unicorn-founders
https://x.com/Samirkaji/status/1801351637895942243?utm_campaign=OpenLP+newsletter&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8j6WSVjgGUZXegAo58QYJgSmqd90ozahWmHQWU0Qsnyk_KaXsIldVB7mrcruCafZe_JukeEs-r0fC78VCzJ0kOU7Ppog&_hsmi=313664446&utm_content=313664446&utm_source=hs_email&mx=2
*
Follow Jamie:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerrcfa
Check out: https://www.screendoor.co/
*
Follow Matthew:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattmulvey/
Check out: https://www.liquid2.vc/
*
Follow David:
X: https://twitter.com/DWeisburd
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dweisburd
Check out: https://10xcapital.com
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(8:55) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(25:44) AssemblyAI - Get 100 free hours to start building at https://www.assemblyai.com/twist
(35:05) CommandBar. Visit https://commandbar.com/twist to get a custom live demo.
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
Todays show:
Alex Wilhelm joins Jason to discuss the role of social media and rhetoric in spreading conspiracy theories in the wake of the attempt on Trump (5:43), Silicon Valley's political landscape and views on Biden and Trump’s policies (20:14), Sequoia's strategy with Stripe shares, secondary markets, and private investments (50:00), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(1:57) Reflections on the assassination attempt on Trump and media cycles
(5:43) The role of social media and rhetoric in spreading conspiracy theories
(10:02) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(11:19) Political implications of post-shooting events and allure of conspiracy theories
(20:14) Silicon Valley's political landscape and views on Biden's policies
(22:31) Intercom - TWIST listeners can get 90% off Intercom’s platform at https://www.intercom.com/twist
(25:03) Trump's policies and their impact on Silicon Valley and startups
(33:31) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://www.Lemon.io/twist
(35:00) Market conditions, Google's potential acquisition of Wizz, and cybersecurity
(47:02) State-sponsored hacking and the complexity of cybersecurity
(50:00) Sequoia's strategy with Stripe shares, secondary markets, and private investments
(1:01:02) The evolving role of secondary markets in venture capital and problem-solving in capitalism
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com/
Check out the TWIST500: twist500.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Mentioned on the show:
Check out Polymarket trading data:
https://polymarket.com/event/will-biden-drop-out-of-presidential-race?tid=1721076355768
Don’t miss the WSJ’s big Wiz scoop:
https://www.wsj.com/business/deals/google-near-23-billion-deal-for-cybersecurity-startup-wiz-6
Alex’s take on the deal
https://www.cautiousoptimism.news/p/why-google-may-spend-23b-buying-wiz
The Axios piece on what Sequoia is cooking up for Stripe shares:
https://www.axios.com/2024/07/15/sequoia-capital-stripe
And you can find the OneStream IPO docs here:
https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1889956/000095017024083395/onestream_s-1a.htm
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:02) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(22:31) Intercom - TWIST listeners can get 90% off Intercom’s platform at https://www.intercom.com/twist
(33:31) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://www.Lemon.io/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at http://www.vanta.com/twist
Attio - A radically new CRM for the next era of companies. Head to https://attio.com/twist to get 15% off for your first year.
CLA. Innovation takes balance. CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors can help you get from startup to where you want to end up. Get started now at CLAconnect.com/tech
*
Todays show:
Alex Wilhelm joins Jason to discuss StubHub's IPO (3:26), inflation trends (23:46), the venture capital landscape in Asia and Europe (30:00), OpenAI’s five levels of AI (46:32), TWIST 500 updates (58:32), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(3:26) StubHub's IPO
(12:47) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(13:39) Experience-based Companies and Entertainment Industry
(17:56) Cost-effective Entertainment
(22:37) Attio - Head to https://attio.com/twist to get 15% off for your first year.
(23:46) Inflation Trends and Venture Capital Impact
(30:00) Venture Capital Landscape in Asia and Europe
(33:12) Investment Trends in India and the Middle East
(37:54) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech
(39:28) Investor Interest in India and Geopolitical Considerations
(46:32) OpenAI's five levels of AI
(53:29) AI competition, model advancements, and the future of SaaS
(58:32) TWIST 500 updates and startups in the construction tech space
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com/
Check out the TWIST500: twist500.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Mentioned on the show:
https://www.wsj.com/finance/stocks/stubhub-delays-ipo-launch-due-to-choppy-market-conditions-42b37bf0
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-07-11/openai-sets-levels-to-track-progress-toward-superintelligent-ai
https://www.cnbc.com/2024/06/07/after-chatgpt-and-the-rise-of-chatbots-investors-pour-into-ai-agents.html
https://sierra.ai/blog/ai-agents-guide
https://www.bls.gov/news.release/cpi.nr0.htm
https://www.cnbc.com/2024/07/12/wholesale-prices-rose-0point2percent-in-june-slightly-hotter-than-expected.html
https://news.crunchbase.com/ai/asia-venture-42dot-hozon-zepto-china/
https://buildcover.com
https://iconbuild.com
https://www.monumental.co
https://www.mightybuildings.com
https://www.dustyrobotics.com
https://www.samara.com
https://paintjet.com
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(12:47) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(22:37) Attio - Head to https://attio.com/twist to get 15% off for your first year.
(37:54) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Tech Domains. Don’t miss our “Jam Session with JCal” contest! To apply and get more details go to https://jamwithjcal.tech brought to you by .tech domains.
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at https://vanta.com/twist
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
*
Todays show:
Alex Wilhelm joins Jason to discuss news that a16z has built out a GPU cluster that it rents to its portfolio companies (4:22), Q2 venture trends (31:02), robotics startups (57:39), new TWIST500 companies (1:11:51), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(4:22) Venture capital firms building AI GPU clusters and a16z's “oxygen”
(10:09) .Tech Domains - Apply for the Jam Session with JCal contest today at https://jamwithjcal.tech
(11:13) Where this leads the industry
(20:21) Michael Ovitz's influence and venture capitalists' work ethic
(30:10) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(31:02) Q2 venture capital funding trends and strategies for struggling companies
(37:00) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(38:23) Global AI funding trends and current state of venture capital
(57:39) Teleoperation robots, remote work arbitrage, and ethical considerations
(1:11:51) Robotics companies' funding, the future of AI and robotics, and the TWIST500
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com/
Check out the TWIST500: twist500.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Mentioned on the show:
https://www.theinformation.com/articles/andreessen-horowitz-is-building-a-stash-of-more-than-20-000-gpus-to-win-ai-deals?rc=g3wfdp
https://infogram.com/global-quarterly-ai-funding-through-q2-2024-1h0n25okznz5l4p
https://infogram.com/global-venture-dollar-volume-q2-2024-1hnp27eewj9on4g
https://www.cnn.com/2020/09/14/business/robots-japan-supermarkets-spc-intl/index.html
https://www.reddit.com/r/overemployed
https://www.athena.com/#Elite-Assistants
https://nypost.com/2024/04/09/us-news/nyc-restaurants-use-zoom-cashiers-from-philippines
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:09) .Tech Domains - Apply for the Jam Session with JCal contest today at https://jamwithjcal.tech
(30:10) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(37:00) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
NetSuite. The number one cloud financial system, bringing accounting, financial management, inventory, and HR, into ONE platform. Giving you ONE source of truth. By popular demand, NetSuite has extended its one-of-a-kind flexible financing program for a few more weeks! Head to http://www.NetSuite.com/twist
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
DevSquad. DevSquad helps startups design better products. If you need UI and UX expertise and don’t want to hire an entire design team, head to
http://devsquad.com/startups and book a call. Mention that you are coming from TWiST to get 10% off.
*
Todays show:
Sunny joins Jason to dive into all things AI, including the power of Claude Sonnet (6:49), the importance of “AI Native” workers (21:40), Luna Labs and their recent video that brings famous memes to life (36:40), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Sunny joins Jason.
(2:26) Living in the toughest fundraising environment and the failure of Lina Khan.
(6:49) Let’s jump back into AI demos with Claude Sonnet.
(10:28) NetSuite - By popular demand, NetSuite has extended its one-of-a-kind flexible financing program for a few more weeks! Head to http://www.NetSuite.com/twist
(11:46) Real-world applications with Jason’s team.
(13:52) Firing up ChatGPT 4.o for results that are extra-ordinary.
(20:16) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(21:40) The importance of “AI Native” workers.
(23:50) Is Google search going backwards compared to the power of today’s AI models?
(28:24) DevSquad - Visit https://devsquad.com/startups, book a call, and mention TWIST for 10% off!
(30:11) The omnipresence of AI at home and with work teams.
(36:40) Sunny demos Luna Labs, including the recent creation of bringing famous memes to life in one killer video.
(40:17) Sunny demos Kling.
(43:33) Sunny shows us Qwen, what he calls the best open-sourced model.
(49:04) Sunny demos the voices of Cartesia AI.
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
LINKS:
Check out Min Choi’s Twitter post: https://x.com/minchoi/status/1807790101033890286
Check out Claude Sonnet: https://claude.ai/new
Check out Luma Labs: https://lumalabs.ai/dream-machine
Check out Kling: https://kling.kuaishou.com/
Check out Qwen: https://huggingface.co/spaces/Qwen/Qwen2-72B-Instruct
Check out Cartesia AI: https://play.cartesia.ai/
*
Follow Sunny:
X: https://twitter.com/sundeep
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sundeepm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:(10:28) NetSuite - By popular demand, NetSuite has extended its one-of-a-kind flexible financing program for a few more weeks! Head to http://www.NetSuite.com/twist
(20:16) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(28:24) DevSquad - Visit https://devsquad.com/startups, book a call, and mention TWIST for 10% off!
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com/
Check out the TWIST500: twist500.com
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Intercom. Intercom’s AI-first service is the best thing to happen to your customers since you. TWIST listeners can get 90% off Intercom’s platform at https://intercom.com/TWIST
AssemblyAI. Get maximum value from voice data with AssemblyAI. Build powerful products and features for your end users on the industry’s leading speech-to-text models. Get 100 free hours to start building at https://www.AssemblyAI.com/TWIST
Vensure. Vensure is an HR firm that specializes in serving rapidly growing technology companies. Providing fully customized HR and benefit strategies designed to grow with their client’s needs. Visit http://Vensure.com today to schedule an HR evaluation, and learn how they can help you.
Todays show:
David Weisburd hosts Logan Allin, Neil Datta, and Jason Calacanis to discuss Vinod Khosla’s views on AI (1:13), Trumps H-1B policy (11:24), incorporation to funding stage (36:09), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) David Weisburd intros Logan Allin, Neil Datta, and Jason Calacanis
(2:57) Vinod Khosla's talk on AI at Collision Conference
(5:12) Tech regulation, AI, and M&A's impact on portfolios
(13:28) Intercom - TWIST listeners can get 90% off Intercom’s platform at intercom.com/TWIST
(14:58) Globalization and navigating AI in venture
(23:44) AssemblyAI - Get 100 free hours to start building at https://www.AssemblyAI.com/TWIST
(25:13) Trump's stance on H-1B visas and immigration policy
(42:19) Vensure - Visit http://Vensure.com today to schedule an HR evaluation, and learn how they can help you.
(43:37) Carta data on incorporation to funding stage
(54:34) Lighting round on recent investments
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com/
Check out the TWIST500: twist500.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Logan:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/loganallin
Check out: https://fin.capital
*
Follow Neil:
X: https://x.com/NKDAdvisory
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neildatta
Check out: https://nkdadvisory.com
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(13:28) Intercom - TWIST listeners can get 90% off Intercom’s platform at intercom.com/TWIST
(23:44) AssemblyAI - Get 100 free hours to start building at https://www.AssemblyAI.com/TWIST
(42:19) Vensure - Visit http://Vensure.com today to schedule an HR evaluation, and learn how they can help you.
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers, get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
Eight Sleep. Good sleep is the ultimate game changer. The newest generation of the pod, the Pod 4 ultra has arrived. Head to https://www.eightsleep.com/twist and use code TWIST to get $350 off the Pod 4 Ultra.
Northwest Registered Agent. Northwest Registered Agent will form your business quickly and easily. In just 10 clicks and 10 minutes, set up your entire business identity—name, address, mail service, phone, email, website, and domain. For just $39 plus state fees, Northwest will handle your complete business identity. Visit http://northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today.
*
Todays show:
Alex Wilhelm joins Jason to discuss the weekend debate regarding MEI/DEI (12:12), Amazon buys Adept’s key talent (42:39), Chime buys Salt Labs (52:41), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(1:47) Weekend recap and political debate analysis
(10:50) Media's role in political coverage
(14:49 ) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(16:12) The weekend debate regarding MEI/DEI and that TechCrunch article
(27:50) Eight Sleep - Head to https://www.eightsleep.com/twist and use code TWIST to get $350 off the Pod 4 Ultra.
(29:20) Discussion on DEI vs MEI and meritocracy in Silicon Valley
(41:10) Northwest Registered Agent - For just $39 plus state fees, Northwest will handle your complete business identity. Visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today.
(42:39) Amazon buys Adept’s key talent
(52:20) Chime's acquisition of Salt Labs
(1:16:12) Challenges and strategies for EdTech companies
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com/
Check out the TWIST500: twist500.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Mentioned on the show:
https://techcrunch.com/2024/06/28/dei-more-like-common-decency-and-silicon-valley-is-saying-no-thanks
https://techcrunch.com/2010/09/21/so-a-blogger-walks-into-a-bar
https://x.com/alexandr_wang/status/1801331034916851995
https://techcrunch.com/2024/06/28/amazon-hires-founders-away-from-ai-startup-adept
https://techcrunch.com/2024/03/19/microsoft-hires-inflection-founders-to-run-new-consumer-ai-division
https://techcrunch.com/2024/03/21/microsoft-inflection-ai-investors-reid-hoffman-bill-gates
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kna9E_3kFF0
https://www.chime.com/blog/chime-acquires-enterprise-employee-rewards-company-salt-labs
https://www.saltlabs.com
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(14:49) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(27:50) Eight Sleep - Head to https://www.eightsleep.com/twist and use code TWIST to get $350 off the Pod 4 Ultra.
(41:10) Northwest Registered Agent - For just $39 plus state fees, Northwest will handle your complete business identity. Visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today.
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
Eight Sleep. Good sleep is the ultimate game changer. The newest generation of the pod, the Pod 4 ultra has arrived. Head to https://www.eightsleep.com/twist and use code TWIST to get $350 off the Pod 4 Ultra.
DevSquad. Most dev agencies only offer developers. Why? Because product management is hard. Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist.
*
Todays show:
David Weisburd hosts Konstantine Buhler, Ana Marshall, and Jason Calacanis to discuss VCs not raising new funds (3:04), Cisco's $1 billion AI fund (31:36), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) David Weisburd intros Konstantine Buhler, Ana Marshall, and Jason Calacanis
(3:04) VCs not raising new funds, market impact, and the current state of venture capital
(5:32) Challenges for new fund managers, power laws, and investment strategies
(10:38) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(12:01) Capital deployment, returns, and portfolio assessment
(17:28) Emerging managers and market trends
(29:57) Eight Sleep - Head to https://www.eightsleep.com/twist and use code TWIST to get $350 off the Pod 4 Ultra.
(31:36) Cisco's $1 billion AI fund
(40:06) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist
(41:21) AI applications and business models
(50:27) Investment strategies for M&A vs. IPO
(53:19) Lightning round on latest investments
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com/
Check out the TWIST500: twist500.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Konstantine:
X: https://x.com/KostaBuhler
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/konstantinebuhler
Check out: https://www.sequoiacap.com
*
Follow Ana:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ana-marshall-b072136
Check out: https://hewlett.org
*
Follow David:
X: https://twitter.com/DWeisburd
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dweisburd
Check out: https://10xcapital.com
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:38) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(29:57) Eight Sleep - Head to https://www.eightsleep.com/twist and use code TWIST to get $350 off the Pod 4 Ultra.
(40:06) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist
*
Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
LinkedIn Jobs. A business is only as strong as its people, and every hire matters. Go to https://www.linkedin.com/twist to post your first job for free. Terms and conditions apply.
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
Northwest Registered Agent. Northwest Registered Agent will form your business quickly and easily. In just 10 clicks and 10 minutes, set up your entire business identity—name, address, mail service, phone, email, website, and domain. For just $39 plus state fees, Northwest will handle your complete business identity. Visit http://northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show!
(2:11) Ai generated memes.
(7:36) The butler experiences.
(9:59) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
(11:52) The Texan stock exchange.
(21:03) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(25:14) Circle’s pending IPO.
(30:05) Northwest Registered Agent - For just $39 plus state fees, Northwest will handle your complete business identity. Visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today.
(31:46) Alex breaks down some amazing details around stable-coins like Tether and crypto companies like CoinBase and Circle.
*
Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com/
Check out the TWIST500: twist500.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Mentioned on the show:
(links)
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:59) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
(21:03) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(30:05) Northwest Registered Agent - For just $39 plus state fees, Northwest will handle your complete business identity. Visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today.
*
All rights for the video shared and linked below belong to the original copyright holder, and we are using the footage under the principle of fair use.
*
Great TWIST interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
LinkedIn Ads. To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at http://www.vanta.com/twist
Lemon.io. Hire pre-vetted remote developers, get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
*
Todays show:
Alex Wilhelm joins Jason to discuss the most incredible new ride Jason has ever seen (9:02), Jason’s recent Donald Trump interview (14:49), JCal becoming a meme (36:34), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(2:38) Club 33 at Disney.
(9:02) The most incredible new ride Jason has ever seen.
(10:43) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(14:49) A look at the Donald Trump interview on All In.
(19:54) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(30:45) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(36:34) JCal became a meme!
(37:15) The gentleman’s RIF and the status of remote workers.(48:26) New air taxi plan from Archer.
*
Subscribe to the TWiST newsletter: https://www.ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Mentioned on the show:
Check out the Donald Trump interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=blqIZGXWUpU
Check out Disney’s Club 33: http://www.disneylandclub33.com/#google_vignette
Check out Archer: https://news.archer.com/archer-san-francisco-air-mobility-network-connecting-five-locations-across-bay-area-kilroy-oyster-point
Check out Joby Aviation: https://www.jobyaviation.com/
Check out Dell article: https://www.reddit.com/r/technology/comments/1dl16s2/nearly_half_of_dell_workers_opt_for_fulltime/
Check out Athena: https://www.athenago.com/
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:43) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(19:54) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(30:45) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
DevSquad - Most dev agencies only offer developers. Why? Because product management is hard. Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist.
Oracle - Oracle Cloud Infrastructure, or OCI, is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. Take a free test drive of OCI at https://www.oracle.com/twist.
AssemblyAI - Get maximum value from voice data with AssemblyAI. Build powerful products and features for your end users on the industry’s leading speech-to-text models. Get 100 free hours to start building at https://www.assemblyai.com/twist
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Dan Senor joins guest host Mark Suster.
(10:45) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist
(19:28) Oracle - Take a free test drive of OCI at https://www.oracle.com/twist.
(30:39) AssemblyAI - Maximum value from voice data and AI. Get 100 free hours to start building at https://www.assemblyai.com/twist
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Check out Dan’s podcast “Call Me Back”: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/call-me-back-with-dan-senor/id1539292794
Check out Start-Up Nation Central: https://startupnationcentral.org/
*
Follow Dan:
X: https://x.com/dansenor
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-senor/
*
Follow Mark:
X: https://twitter.com/msuster
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marksuster/
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:45) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist
(19:28) Oracle - Take a free test drive of OCI at https://www.oracle.com/twist.
(30:39) AssemblyAI - Maximum value from voice data and AI. Get 100 free hours to start building at https://www.assemblyai.com/twist
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Coda. Coda empowers your startup by bringing words, tables, and teams together. Strategize, plan, and track goals effectively with all your valuable data in one place. Go to https://www.coda.io/twist to get started for FREE and get 6 free months of the Team plan.
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at http://www.vanta.com/twist
*
Todays show:
Alex leads us into two great talks from Liquidity Summit 2024. First we have Sky Dayton’s “Aviation Safety, Air Taxis and the Future of Flight” (3:28), followed by Mike Jones’ with “Lessons in Brand Building” (24:14)
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Teaser of both speakers.
(1:33) Alex kicks off the show.
(3:28) Sky Dayton’s talk “Aviation Safety, Air Taxis and the Future of Flight”.
(11:03) Coda - Empower your startup with Coda’s Team plan for free—get 6 months at https://www.Coda.io/twist
(20:45) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(24:14) Mike Jones’ talk “Lessons in Brand Building”
(30:17) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(44:30) Wrap up with Alex.
*
Subscribe to the TWiST newsletter: https://www.ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Check out Science Inc.: https://www.science-inc.com/
Check out Joby Aviation: https://www.jobyaviation.com/
*
Follow Sky:
X: https://x.com/skydayton
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/skydayton/
*
Follow Mike:
X: https://x.com/mjones
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mjones/
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(11:03) Coda - Empower your startup with Coda’s Team plan for free—get 6 months at https://www.Coda.io/twist
(20:45) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(30:17) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at http://www.vanta.com/twist
.Tech Domains - Don’t miss our “Jam Session with JCal” contest, coming soon! To apply and get more details go to https://jamwithjcal.tech brought to you by .tech domains.
Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers, get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
*
Todays show:
Alex Wilhelm joins Jason to discuss Nvidia's rise as the most valuable company (2:34), the GLP-1 phenomenon (11:50), the FTC suing Adobe (34:21), new TWIST500 companies (47:09), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(2:34) Nvidia's rise as the most valuable company
(10:58) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(11:50) Eli Lilly and the GLP-1 Phenomenon
(23:42) .Tech Domains - Apply for the Jam Session with JCal contest today at https://jamwithjcal.tech
(25:08) Telehealth and its future
(33:00) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(34:21) FTC sues Adobe
(47:09) New TWIST500 Companies
(1:18:22) Would Amazon buy TikTok?
*
Subscribe to the TWiST newsletter: https://www.ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Mentioned on the show:
https://companiesmarketcap.com
https://www.wsj.com/health/pharma/david-ricks-eli-lilly-ceo-a67f90d7
https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2024/06/ftc-takes-action-against-adobe-executives-hiding-fees-preventing-consumers-easily-cancelling
https://news.adobe.com/news/news-details/2024/Adobes-Statement-Regarding-Federal-Trade-Commission-Complaint/default.aspx
https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/united-states-files-complaint-against-adobe-and-two-adobe-executives-alleged-violations
https://www.justice.gov/opa/media/1356176/dl?inline
https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1997859/000119312524162032/d396527ds1a.htm
https://www.color.com/blog/colors-copilot-and-partnership-with-openai
https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=202120220AB390
https://frame.work
https://creators.wattpad.com
https://www.royalroad.com/home
https://www.ft.com/content/e33cb565-6d44-4f9a-9105-f3afc03aa732
*
New TWIST500 companies:
https://albedo.com
https://www.dawnaerospace.com
https://about.webtoon.com
https://www.spacex.com
https://www.color.com
https://www.biltrewards.com
https://sakana.ai
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(11:58) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(23:42) .Tech Domains - Apply for the Jam Session with JCal contest today at https://jamwithjcal.tech
(33:00) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
LinkedIn Ads. To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
Mercury. With Mercury, you can simplify your financial operations with banking and software that power your critical financial workflows, all within the one thing every business needs, a bank account. And with new bill pay and accounting integrations, you can pay bills faster and stay in control of company spend. Apply in minutes at https://www.Mercury.com
*
Todays show:
Alex Wilhelm joins Jason to discuss woke Google Maps (1:57), Bilt & Wells Fargo dynamics (16:20), AI progress in China and Japan (32:00), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(1:57) Woke Google Maps
(9:44) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(16:20) Bilt and Wells Fargo fintech dynamics
(17:00) CNBC interview with Bilt founder Ankur Jain
(25:50) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(32:00) AI progress in China and Japan
(39:41 ) Mercury - Join 200K startups who use Mercury to operate at their best at http://www.mercury.com
(45:09) Defining AGI and its implications
(49:06) McDonald's AI ordering systems and their challenges
(1:04:37) Audience question on EU's AI Act and its impact on startups
*
Subscribe to the TWiST newsletter: https://www.ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Mentioned on the show:
https://www.ft.com/content/357f3c68-b866-4c2e-b678-0d075051a260
https://www.theinformation.com/articles/openais-japanese-rival-gets-1-billion-valuation-from-silicon-valley-investors
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:44) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(25:50) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(39:41 ) Mercury - Join 200K startups who use Mercury to operate at their best at http://www.mercury.com
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Oracle - Oracle Cloud Infrastructure, or OCI, is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. Take a free test drive of OCI at https://www.oracle.com/twist.
DevSquad - Most dev agencies only offer developers. Why? Because product management is hard. Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://www.devsquad.com/twist.
LinkedIn Ads - To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
*
Todays show:
Will Guidara joins Jason to discuss the book Unreasonable Hospitality and how it relates to all businesses including startups (3:44), Will’s annual “The Welcome Conference” in NY (14:32), how the show The Bear lifted Will’s ‘NY street hotdog’ story and made it their own - which then led to his involvement with future seasons (36:19), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Will Guidara of Unreasonable Hospitality joins Jason.
(3:44) Important premises from the book Unreasonable Hospitality and how it relates to all businesses including startups.
(6:26) Will explains how it felt to see parts from his book appear on the hit show The Bear.
(8:13) Iconic examples of hospitality and how it can turn customers into advocates for your brand.
(10:04) Oracle - Take a free test drive of OCI at https://www.oracle.com/twist.
(11:08) Powerful examples of going above and beyond for your customer.
(14:32) Will’s annual “The Welcome Conference” in NY.
(20:57) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://www.devsquad.com/twist
(22:13) Jason shares an anecdote of how he helps others.
(24:17) Will and Jason riff on interesting examples of unreasonable hospitality, including one that should exist for airplane passengers.
(30:44) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(32:12) A perspective shift that changes the value of call centers.
(36:03) How the show The Bear lifted Will’s ‘NY street hotdog’ story and made it their own - leading to his involvement for future seasons.
(40:21) Will feels that The Bear was able to craft and articulate his message spot on in one of their best episodes.
(42:22) How to gain from the addictive personality traits in the restaurant business.
(51:15) The “Chicken for Two” at the NoMad hotel.
(53:31) Breaking down the state of tipping culture and how its removal from Eleven Madison Park was highly successful.
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Check out Unreasonable Hospitality: https://www.unreasonablehospitality.com/
Sign up for Will’s newsletter: https://www.unreasonablehospitality.com/newsletter
Check out “The Welcome Conference”: https://www.thewelcomeconference.com/
Check out Will’s hospitality agency “Thank You”: https://www.thankyou.nyc/
*
Follow Will:
X: https://x.com/wguidara
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willguidara/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:04) Oracle - Take a free test drive of OCI at https://www.oracle.com/twist.
(20:57) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://www.devsquad.com/twist
(30:44) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Eight Sleep. Good sleep is the ultimate game changer. The newest generation of the pod, the Pod 4 ultra has arrived. Head to https://www.eightsleep.com/twist and use code TWIST to get $350 off the Pod 4 Ultra.
Zendesk. The best customer experiences are built with Zendesk. Qualifying startups can join their Startup program and get Zendesk products free, for six months! Visit http://www.zendesk.com/twist today to get started.
CLA. Innovation takes balance. CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors can help you get from startup to where you want to end up. Get started now at https://www.claconnect.com/tech
*
Todays show:
Alex Wilhelm joins Jason to discuss Waymo crash implications (3:53), Apple's AI announcements post-WWDC (17:17), inflation cooldown (27:21), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(3:53) How Waymo handled a crash and self-driving car standards
(8:08) Eight Sleep - Head to https://www.eightsleep.com/twist and use code TWIST to get $350 off the Pod 4 Ultra.
(10:04) Car safety technology
(17:17) Apple's AI announcements and stock impact
(25:41) Zendesk - Get six months free at
http://www.zendesk.com/twist
(27:21) Inflation update: Recent CPI data and its implications
(33:34) High interest rate environment and venture capital
(40:48) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech
(42:12) 10 companies most likely to IPO
*
Subscribe to the TWiST newsletter: https://www.ticker.thisweekinstartups.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Mentioned on the show:
https://www.reddit.com/r/SelfDrivingCars/comments/1cxo27o/waymo_car_crashes_into_pole/
https://www.theverge.com/2024/6/12/24175489/waymo-recall-telephone-poll-crash-phoenix-software-map
https://techcrunch.com/2024/02/13/waymo-recall-crash-software-self-driving-cars/
https://techcrunch.com/2024/06/12/waymo-second-robotaxi-recall-autonomous-vehicle/
https://www.cnbc.com/quotes/AAPL?qsearchterm=aapl
https://www.bls.gov/news.release/cpi.nr0.htm
https://x.com/ashugarg/status/1800658425040253309
https://www.cnbc.com/quotes/US2Y
https://www.wsj.com/livecoverage/fed-meeting-fomc-interest-rate-decision-cpi-inflation-june-2024/card/traders-firmly-expect-a-rate-cut-in-september-q8qGgjh8jorUx56RBpK8
https://kalshi.com/markets/ratecutcount/number-of-rate-cuts#ratecutcount-24dec31
https://www.cnbc.com/2024/06/12/fed-meeting-today-on-interest-rate.html
https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/databricks
https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/gusto
https://archive.is/fGJav#selection-2217.0-2226.0
https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/shein-b79e
https://www.sec.gov/cgi-bin/browse-edgar?action=getcompany&CIK=0001514587&owner=exclude&count=40&hidefilings=0
https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/turo
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(8:08) Eight Sleep - Head to https://www.eightsleep.com/twist and use code TWIST to get $350 off the Pod 4 Ultra.
(25:41) Zendesk - Get six months free at http://www.zendesk.com/twist
(40:48) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
LinkedIn Jobs. A business is only as strong as its people, and every hire matters. Go to https://www.linkedin.com/twist to post your first job for free. Terms and conditions apply.
The Equinix Startup program offers a hybrid infrastructure solution for startups, including up to $100K in credits and personalized consultations and guidance from the Equinix team. Go to https://www.equinixstartups.com to apply today.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(1:50) Jumping into the keynote from Apple and whether or not it impressed.
(5:24) “Apple Intelligence” has landed!
(8:32) Reactions to the new Siri.
(10:00) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(12:42) The importance of Apple’s addition of “on-screen awareness”.
(16:30) Breakdown of Apple’s use of data with their AI.
(19:48) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
(23:53) ChatGPT’s integration with Siri.
(26:32) Unpacking the “free” use of ChatGPT with Apple products.
(30:01) Equinix - Join the Equinix Startup Program for up to $100K in credits and much more at https://deploy.equinix.com/startups
(31:07) Discussing the relationships between OpenAI and Microsoft and now Apple.
(34:44) More “ooohs” and “ahhhs” from Apple’s new Image Playground.
(40:25) Jason breaks down other key announcements from WWDC 2024 including a password manager and Apple TV’s new “Insights”.
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Links:
Watch Apple’s WWDC 2024 Keynote: https://developer.apple.com/videos/play/wwdc2024/101/
Article on Fearless Fund: https://www.bloomberg.com/opinion/articles/2024-06-06/the-fearless-fund-should-keep-fighting-racism-in-venture-capital
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:00) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(19:48) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
(30:01) Equinix - Join the Equinix Startup Program for up to $100K in credits and much more at https://deploy.equinix.com/startups
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Attio. A radically new CRM for the next era of companies. Head to https://attio.com/twist to get 15% off for your first year.
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
.Tech Domains - Don’t miss our “Jam with JCal” contest! To apply and get more details go to https://www.jamwithjcal.tech brought to you by .tech domains.
*
Todays show:
Alex Wilhelm joins Jason to discuss concerns about the app "Fizz" (12:24), the state of seed (31:35), the first TWIST500 startups (58:58), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(11:15) Attio - Head to https://attio.com/twist to get 15% off for your first year.
(12:24) Concerns about the app "Fizz" and the use of anonymity in social media apps
(19:14) The impact of anonymous apps on society, parenting concerns, and the responsibility of investors in harmful tech startups
(23:16) The case for banning smartphones in schools
(30:19) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(31:35) The state of seed
(35:33) Impact of AI on startup efficiency
(38:17) .Tech Domains - Apply for the “Jam with JCal” contest today at https://www.jamwithjcal.tech
(39:45) The variety of seed deals
(45:13) How to leave and join a rival company legally
(58:58) The first TWIST500 startups
(1:05:48) Impact of AI on journalism and media companies
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Mentioned on the show:
https://www.wsj.com/tech/personal-tech/fizz-is-the-latest-campus-gossip-app-it-took-two-days-to-shake-up-one-high-school-1d59ffd4
https://www.businessinsider.com/gen-z-fizz-app-anonymous-messaging-cyber-bullying-vermont-2024-6
https://techcrunch.com/2023/08/10/insiders-bet-more-on-fizz-a-social-network-that-has-now-bubbled-up-at-80-college-campuses/
https://x.com/JonHaidt/status/1799525595509850522
https://techcrunch.com/2017/04/28/yik-yak-shuts-down-after-square-paid-1-million-for-its-engineers/
https://x.com/Jason/status/1799868195899376014/photo/1
https://techcrunch.com/2024/06/07/y-combinator-yc-startups-tiny-seed-rounds-vc-investors-not-interested/
https://x.com/dhh/status/1799427898652389827
https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com/
https://www.forbes.com/sites/sarahemerson/2024/06/07/buzzy-ai-search-engine-perplexity-is-directly-ripping-off-content-from-news-outlets/
https://techcrunch.com/2022/06/24/zendesk-drama-concludes-with-10-2-billion-private-equity-acquisition
*
Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(11:15) Attio - Head to https://attio.com/twist to get 15% off for your first year.
(30:19) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(38:17) .Tech Domains - Apply for the “Jam with JCal” contest today at https://www.jamwithjcal.tech
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
LinkedIn Ads - To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
.Tech Domains - Don’t miss our “Jam with JCal” contest! To apply and get more details go to https://www.jamwithjcal.tech brought to you by .tech domains.
Northwest Registered Agent - Northwest Registered Agent will form your business quickly and easily. In just 10 clicks and 10 minutes, set up your entire business identity—name, address, mail service, phone, email, website, and domain. For just $39 plus state fees, Northwest will handle your complete business identity. Visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today.
*
Todays show:
Intercom’s Eoghan McCabe joins Jason to discuss: the state of the business at Intercom and his return as CEO (8:33), the future of customer service with AI (24:28), what makes a great manager (59:36), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Intercom’s Eoghan McCabe joins Jason.(1:50) Family history of the two McCabe’s: Jason and Eoghan.(5:49) The kindness and dedication of Intercom’s co-founder Des Traynor.(8:33) What Intercom is, the state of the business and Eoghan’s return as CEO.(10:41) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups(12:37) Looking at overlap and adjacencies when you are building SaaS products.(16:36) The brilliance of the pre-seed pricing model, and is it broken?(19:47) .Tech Domains - Apply for the “Jam with JCal” contest today at https://www.jamwithjcal.tech(22:16) What is next for companies with. SaaS-based pricing.(24:28) The future of customer service and AI.(30:30) Northwest Registered Agent - For just $39 plus state fees, Northwest will handle your complete business identity. Visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today.(36:09) Expectations from AI one year from now.(45:23) Breaking down the negative press and social reaction to the Humane Pin.(52:34) What the world will look like as conversational AI develops.(59:36) What makes a great manager and the “return of the king” at Intercom.
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Check out Intercom: https://www.intercom.com/
*
Follow Eoghan:
X: https://x.com/eoghan
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eoghanmccabe/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:41) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(19:47) .Tech Domains - Apply for the “Jam with JCal” contest today at https://www.jamwithjcal.tech
(30:30) Northwest Registered Agent - For just $39 plus state fees, Northwest will handle your complete business identity. Visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today.
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Vanta - Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at http://www.vanta.com/twist
Oracle - Oracle Cloud Infrastructure, or OCI, is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. Take a free test drive of OCI at https://www.oracle.com/twist.
Mercury - With Mercury, you can simplify your financial operations with banking and software that power your critical financial workflows, all within the one thing every business needs, a bank account. And with new bill pay and accounting integrations, you can pay bills faster and stay in control of company spend. Apply in minutes at https://www.Mercury.com
*
Todays show:
Kirsten Green joins guest host Mark Suster to discuss Forerunner’s framework on making investments (8:33), how AI will change how consumer companies and applications are built (16:28), cultural shifts that are investable (33:38), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Kirsten Green joins guest host Mark Suster.
(2:49) Kirsten’s advice to stand out in consumer venture with only seven percent of VC dollars being allocated to consumer.
(8:33) Forerunner’s framework on making investments.
(11:16) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(12:09) The value of searching for where businesses are missing the mark, and the “wow” factor of the Oura Ring.
(16:28) How AI will change how consumer companies and applications are built
(19:46) Oracle - Take a free test drive of OCI at https://www.oracle.com/twist.
(20:50) The current state of the consumer search experience and the power of personalization that AI can bring.
(24:16) The disruptive lesson from mobile and the next level of being context aware.
(28:24) Mercury - Join 200K startups who use Mercury to operate at their best at http://www.mercury.com
(31:57) Forerunner Ventures lives within the intersection of invention and culture.
(33:38) Cultural shifts that are investable.
(36:36) The consumer shift from large to small screen.
(40:42) The importance of the mix between direct and indirect revenue.
(42:32) Discussing the relevance of “freemium”.
(55:48) What the exit environment is like going forward.
(1:02:55) What will it take to bring back the small and mid-cap market?
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Check out Forerunner Ventures: https://www.forerunnerventures.com/
*
Follow Kirsten:
X: https://x.com/kirstenagreen
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirstengreen/
*
Follow Mark:
X: https://twitter.com/msuster
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marksuster/
*
Thank you to our partners:
(11:16) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(19:46) Oracle - Take a free test drive of OCI at https://www.oracle.com/twist.
(28:24) Mercury - Join 200K startups who use Mercury to operate at their best at http://www.mercury.com
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers, get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
Todays show:
Base Power’s Justin Lopas joins Jason to discuss the critical link between energy availability and GDP per capita, focusing on Texas' deregulated energy market and recent power outages (2:16). They also dive into ERCOT's role (7:40), dynamic grid pricing (20:04), batteries' potential for grid resilience (23:09), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Base Power’s Justin Lopas joins Jason
(2:16) Discussion on Texas energy grid and recent power outages
(5:34) Deregulated energy market in Texas
(7:40) How the Texas grid works and the role of ERCOT
(9:35) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(10:50) Issues with the Texas energy system, power outages, and comparison with California's energy issues
(20:04) Dynamic grid pricing in Texas
(23:08) ERCOT's procedures during overload conditions and the role of batteries in grid resilience
(25:39) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(30:40) Cost comparison with Tesla Powerwalls
(36:09) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(45:12) Current deployment status, operational challenges, and regulatory challenges in the energy market
(50:32) Proposal for trusted vendor programs and preferred vendor status
(1:03:41) Correlation between energy availability and GDP per capita
(1:04:19) Solving the energy problem to boost human prosperity
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Check out Base Power: https://www.basepowercompany.com
*
Follow Justin:
X: https://x.com/JLopas
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinlopas
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:35) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(25:39) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(36:09) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Eight Sleep. Good sleep is the ultimate game changer.
The newest generation of the pod, the Pod 4 ultra has arrived.
Head to eightsleep.com/twist and use code TWIST to get $350 off the Pod 4 Ultra.
Mercury. With Mercury, you can simplify your financial operations with banking and software that power your critical financial workflows, all within the one thing every business needs, a bank account. And with new bill pay and accounting integrations, you can pay bills faster and stay in control of company spend. Apply in minutes at https://www.Mercury.com
Northwest Registered Agent. Start your business fast and secure with Northwest Registered Agent! In just 10 clicks and 10 minutes, set up your entire business identity - name, address, mailservice, phone, email, website, and domain. Everything You Need to Launch Your Business in Minutes! For $39 business formation visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
*
Todays show:
Steve Jurvetson and Gerard Barron join Jason to discuss the growth and challenges of the EV market (1:50). Then, they discuss TMC’s involvement in polymetallic nodules and robotic vacuuming for ocean nodules (15;34), the geopolitical aspects of deep-sea mining (40:50), and AI’s impact on technology (52:01).
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Steve Jurvetson and Gerard Barron join Jason
(1:50) EV market growth and challenges
(2:42) The mission of The Metals Company
(5:54) Gerard Barron explains polymetallic nodules
(13:59) Eight Sleep - Head to https://www.eightsleep.com/twist and use code TWIST to get $350 off the Pod 4 Ultra.
(15:34) Robotic vacuuming and ocean nodules
(19:17) Environmentalists' perspectives on ocean mining
(28:16) Mercury - Join 200K startups who use Mercury to operate at their best at http://mercury.com
(29:47) Deep dive into VC with Steve Jurvetson
(36:16) Northwest Registered Agent - For just $39 plus state fees, Northwest will handle your complete business identity. Visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today.
(40:50) Geopolitical aspects of deep-sea mining and future outlook
(52:01) The age of AI and its impact on technology
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Check out The Metals Company: https://metals.co
*
Follow Gerard:
X: https://x.com/gtbgtb
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerardbarron
*
Follow Steve:
X: https://x.com/FutureJurvetson
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevejurvetson
Check out: https://future.ventures
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(13:59) Eight Sleep - Head to https://www.eightsleep.com/twist and use code TWIST to get $350 off the Pod 4 Ultra.
(28:16) Mercury - Join 200K startups who use Mercury to operate at their best at http://mercury.com
(36:16) Northwest Registered Agent - For just $39 plus state fees, Northwest will handle your complete business identity. Visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today.
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Northwest Registered Agent. Start your business fast and secure with Northwest Registered Agent! In just 10 clicks and 10 minutes, set up your entire business identity—name, address, mail service, phone, email, website, and domain. Everything You Need to Launch Your Business in Minutes! For just $39 plus state fees, Northwest will handle your complete business identity. visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
Wistia - The all-in-one video platform for business, with tools that help you create, manage, and measure the impact of your videos. Try Wistia for free at https://www.wistia.com/startups1
HiddenLayer - Generative AI is revolutionizing industries. HiddenLayer’s AI Detection & Response Solution secures your Generative AI & LLMs from malicious attack. Helping you generate more – by enabling seamless & secure Generative AI. Visit https://www.HiddenLayer.com/TWiST to learn more.
*
Todays show:
Rory O’Driscoll joins guest host Mark Suster to discuss: advice for founders with traction but not yet booming (2:33), thirty years of internet cycles and their impact on venture capital (13:25), the approach to big-picture thinking vs. immediate traction and strategizing exits (36:58), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Rory O’Driscoll joins guest host Mark Suster.
(2:33) Rory’s advice for founders with traction but not yet booming.
(9:09) Aligning incentives between founders and venture; reminding CEOs to be "selfish.”
(10:23) Northwest Registered Agent - For just $39 plus state fees, Northwest will handle your complete business identity. Visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today.(13:25) Reflections on thirty years of internet cycles and their impact on venture capital.
(18:25) Debating AI: Does it favor the incumbents?(20:07) Wistia - Try Wistia for free at https://www.wistia.com/startups(21:35) What Rory and Scale Venture looks for when investing in AI.(26:20) How OpenAI has changed the landscape(29:18) HiddenLayer - HiddenLayer’s AI Detection & Response Solution secures your Generative AI & LLMs from malicious attack. Visit https://www.HiddenLayer.com/TWiST to learn more.(30:30) Debating “faux-mentum” vs. long-term sustainability in investments.(34:34) Balancing deep passion and business savvy when evaluating founders.(36:58) Rory’s approach to big-picture thinking vs. immediate traction and strategizing exits
(44:02) The importance of picking vs. price discipline.
(1:00:58) Advice for founders dealing with “busted cap tables.”
(1:08:07) Rory’s advice for his younger self.
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(10:23) Northwest Registered Agent - For just $39 plus state fees, Northwest will handle your complete business identity. Visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today.(20:07) Wistia - Try Wistia for free at https://www.wistia.com/startups(29:18) HiddenLayer - ***HiddenLayer’s AI Detection & Response Solution secures your Generative AI & LLMs from malicious attack. Visit https://www.HiddenLayer.com/TWiST to learn more.
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
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Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
LinkedIn Ads. To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at http://www.vanta.com/twist
DevSquad. Most dev agencies only offer developers. Why? Because product management is hard. Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist.
*
Todays show:
Jason and Alex discuss xAI raising $6B (2:07), the TWiST500 (30:11), the startups building our drone future (39:55), North Korean tech talent taking American remote tech jobs (55:50), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(2:07) xAI raised $6B series B
(10:03) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(11:30) The evolution of smartphone adoption over time
(19:08) Global Internet users from 2005-2023
(26:06) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(26:57) The control over silicon and Apple’s move switch from Intel
(30:11) TWiST500 announcement
(38:24) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist
(39:55) Armed robot dogs, drone warfare, and the startups building our drone future
(55:50) North Korean nationals taking American remote tech jobs
*
Links and articles from show:
https://x.ai/blog/series-b
https://www.twz.com/sea/rifle-armed-robot-dogs-now-being-tested-by-marine-special-operatorshttps://news.crunchbase.com/ai/defense-military-ai-tech-startups-vc-funding-anduril-shield-ai/?utm_source=cb_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=20230703
https://www.axios.com/2024/05/21/north-korea-it-workers-us-hiring
https://www.cnbc.com/2024/01/24/north-korea-crypto-hacking-activity-soars-to-record-high-in-2023-new-report-shows.html
https://www.statista.com/statistics/273018/number-of-internet-users-worldwide
https://www.axios.com/2024/05/26/china-robot-gun-dog-military-cambodia
https://www.allencontrolsystems.com
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YMnkqY98Cyo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8igjcW39T4k
*
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X: https://x.com/alex
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Thank you to our partners:
(10:03) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(26:06) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(38:24) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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Todays show:
David Weisburd hosts Jaime Matus, Michael Eisenberg, and Jason Calacanis to discuss AI investments and the potential washout of overfunded startups (4:11). They also touch on VC hypocrisy (38:47), and the role of geography in the VC ecosystem (54:53).
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) David Weisburd intros Jaime Matus, Michael Eisenberg, and Jason Calacanis
(4:11) Pitchbook data summarizing the total amount of capital invested in AI
(12:12) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(16:33) Predicting a washout of overfunded AI startups and sky high valuations
(25:30) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(26:57) Discussing Michael Eisenberg's career and investment experiences
(37:22) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(38:47) Discussion on Greg Isenberg's tweet about VC hypocrisy
(54:53) Fundraising rankings by ecosystem
*
Follow Jaime:
X: https://x.com/JaimeMatusVC
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaime-matus
Check out: https://www.invariantes.com
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Follow Michael:
X: https://x.com/mikeeisenberg
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mieisenberg
Check out: https://aleph.vc
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Follow David:
X: https://twitter.com/DWeisburd
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dweisburd
Check out: https://10xcapital.com
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
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Thank you to our partners:
(12:12) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(25:30) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(37:22) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
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Check out Founder University: https://www.founder.university
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Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
In this episode, David Sacks and Evan Owen of Glue join Jason to demo their new “slack killer” product (4:38), explain the role of AI within Glue (14:14), discuss building products with remote vs in-person teams (36:47), and more!
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Timestamps:
(0:00) David Sacks and Evan Owen join Jason to show us newly launched Glue.
(2:42) David Sacks answers, “Why build another product?”.
(4:38) Evan jumps into a demo of Glue.
(9:37) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(12:15) Popular data sources users are incorporating into Glue.
(14:14) Digging deeper on the AI of Glue and when it will be able to be proactive in its participation.(19:42) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist(21:07) Glue’s strategy on converting users from tools like slack in this competitive landscape.
(27:18) Glue’s approach to pricing.
(30:16) Dot Tech Domains - Don’t miss our “Jam with JCal” contest. To apply and get more details go to www.jamwithjcal.tech.
(31:45) Training models and the heated subject of privacy and security.
(34:12) How building a company now, fourteen years after Yammer, has been different for Sacks.
(36:47) Diving into the topic of building products with remote vs in-person teams.
*
Check out Glue: https://gluegroups.com/Glue on X: https://x.com/GlueAI
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Follow David:
X: https://x.com/DavidSacks
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidoliversacks/
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Follow Evan:
X: https://x.com/kainosnoema
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanaowen/
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X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
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Thank you to our partners:
(9:37) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(19:42) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist(30:16) Dot Tech Domains - Don’t miss our “Jam with JCal” contest. To apply and get more details go to www.jamwithjcal.tech.
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Zendesk - The best customer experiences are built with Zendesk. Qualifying startups can join their Startup program and get Zendesk products free, for six months! Visit http://www.zendesk.com/twist today to get started.
Mercury - Mercury is the fintech startups use for banking and all their financial workflows.Paying bills, staying in control of company spend, and closing the books doesn't need to be so complex — that's why Mercury powers it all from the one thing every business needs: the bank account. Join 200K startups who use Mercury to operate at their best at http://mercury.comMercury is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group and Evolve Bank & Trust, Members FDIC.
HiddenLayer - Generative AI is revolutionizing industries. HiddenLayer’s AI Detection & Response Solution secures your Generative AI & LLMs from malicious attack. Helping you generate more – by enabling seamless & secure Generative AI. Visit https://HiddenLayer.com/TWiST
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show
(1:50) Nvidia earnings for First Quarter Fiscal 2025
(12:53) Zendesk - Get six months free at http://www.zendesk.com/twist
(14:32) Continuing discussion on Nvidia's earnings
(22:39) News Corp and OpenAI strike ‘multi year global partnership’
(29:21) Mercury - Join 200K startups who use Mercury to operate at their best at http://mercury.com
(30:51) Apple News+ is driving big numbers for The Daily Beast
(39:03) HiddenLayer - HiddenLayer’s AI Detection & Response Solution secures your Generative AI & LLMs from malicious attack. Visit https://HiddenLayer.com/TWiST to learn more.
(40:14) Wearable AI startup Humane is exploring a sale
(50:56) Windows Recall
(1:08:45) Farcaster raises $150M: Is crypto making a comeback?
*
Links and articles from show:
https://nvidianews.nvidia.com/news/nvidia-announces-financial-results-for-first-quarter-fiscal-2025
https://techcrunch.com/2024/05/21/farcaster-a-crypto-based-social-network-raised-150m-with-just-80k-daily-users/
https://gizmodo.com/humane-ai-pin-selling-billion-1851493143
https://www.semafor.com/article/05/19/2024/as-clicks-dry-up-for-news-sites-could-apples-news-app-be-a-lifeline
https://www.wsj.com/business/media/openai-news-corp-strike-deal-23f186ba?mod=latest_headlines
https://s201.q4cdn.com/141608511/files/doc_financials/2025/Rev_by_Mkt_Qtrly_Trend_Q125.pdf
https://x.com/dsiroker/status/1792956339515273537
*
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Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm/
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X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
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Thank you to our partners:
(12:53) Zendesk - Get six months free at http://www.zendesk.com/twist
(29:21) Mercury - Join 200K startups who use Mercury to operate at their best at http://mercury.com
(39:03) HiddenLayer - HiddenLayer’s AI Detection & Response Solution secures your Generative AI & LLMs from malicious attack. Visit https://HiddenLayer.com/TWiST to learn more.*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
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TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Vanta - Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at http://www.vanta.com/twist
LinkedIn Ads - To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
Equinix - The Equinix Startup program offers a hybrid infrastructure solution for startups, including up to $100K in credits and personalized consultations and guidance from the Equinix team. Go to https://www.equinixstartups.com to apply today.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Alex Wilhelm joins Jason to dive into this week’s news.
(1:17) Announcing new co-host on TWiST Alex Wilhelm of TechCrunch fame!
(3:03) Alex breaks down what’s on the docket for today!
(4:16) The OpenAI equity issue.
(10:38) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(12:39) OpenAI’s ChatGPT 4o.(15:33) Why ChatGPT is better than Siri.
(17:50) OpenAI’s net revenue in the wake of last week’s announcements.(20:04) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups(22:06) Comparing the needs of consumers vs enterprise for ChatGPT.(24:17) OpenAI has pulled “Sky” one of the voices for the new ChatGPT 4o due to it sounding like Scarlett Johansson
(28:48) Equinix - Join the Equinix Startup Program for up to $100K in credits and much more at https://deploy.equinix.com/startups(30:01) Alex’s favorite topic around how much founders paying themselves.(38:46) A billion-dollar deal in cybersecurity.
(45:43) Breaking news Scar Jo!
(56:24) What’s going on with crypto-venture capital.
(58:02) A look at “decentralized twitter” called Farcaster.
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Links from episode:
OpenAI Equity link: https://www.businessinsider.com/sam-altman-openai-nda-clause-vested-equity-ilya-sutskever-2024-5
OpenAI revenue growth https://techcrunch.com/2024/05/20/chatgpts-mobile-app-revenue-saw-biggest-spike-yet-following-gpt-4o-launch/
Founder salary report: https://pilot.com/founder-salary-report-2024
CyberArk-Venafi deal: https://techcrunch.com/2024/05/20/cyberark-snaps-up-venafi-for-1-54b-to-ramp-up-in-machine-to-machine-security/
Crypto VC rising: https://www.reuters.com/technology/venture-capital-funding-crypto-rises-24-bln-pitchbook-says-2024-05-20/
Check out Farcaster: https://www.farcaster.xyz/
*
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Follow Alex:
X: https://x.com/alex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
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Thank you to our partners:
(10:38) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(20:04) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups(28:48) Equinix - Join the Equinix Startup Program for up to $100K in credits and much more at https://deploy.equinix.com/startups
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
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TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
Coda. A new doc that brings words, tables and teams together. All your valuable data, plans, objectives, and strategies in one place. Go to https://www.coda.io/twist to get a $1,000 credit!
Northwest Registered Agent. Northwest Registered Agent will form your business quickly and easily. In just 10 clicks and 10 minutes, set up your entire business identity—name, address, mail service, phone, email, website, and domain. For just $39 plus state fees, Northwest will handle your complete business identity. Visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today.
*
Todays show:
David Weisburd hosts Mel Williams, Delian Asparouhov, and Jason Calacanis to discuss discuss crypto regulation (17:05), AI spending (27:21), and immigration's role in startups (55:43).
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) David Weisburd intros Mel Williams, Delian Asparouhov, and Jason Calacanis
(3:46) WSJ reports that top crypto funds are back in the market
(9:38) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(10:54) Jason's proposal for a "sophisticated investor test" for crypto investments
(17:05) The limitations of current SEC regulations and the potential political impact of crypto regulation
(26:03) Coda - Get a $1,000 startup credit at https://coda.io/twist
(27:21) AI spend is up across the board in 2024
(39:42) Northwest Registered Agent - For just $39 plus state fees, Northwest will handle your complete business identity. Visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today.
(41:01) GPT-4o demos and the rapid commoditization of AI technology
(48:29) The impact of AI on the economy
(55:43) Immigration and its impact on the startup ecosystem
(1:06:11) Self-censorship and the importance of a free society
*
Follow Mel:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mel-williams-00584a5
Check Out: https://truebridgecapital.com
*
Follow Delian:
X: https://x.com/zebulgar
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/delian-asparouhov-87447742
Check out: https://foundersfund.com https://www.varda.com
*
Follow David:
X: https://twitter.com/DWeisburd
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dweisburd
Check out: https://10xcapital.com
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:38) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(26:03) Coda - Get a $1,000 startup credit at https://coda.io/twist
(39:42) Northwest Registered Agent - For just $39 plus state fees, Northwest will handle your complete business identity. Visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today.
*
Check out the Launch Accelerator: https://launchaccelerator.co
*
Check out Founder University: https://www.founder.university
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
.Tech Domains - Don’t miss our “Jam Session with JCal” contest, coming soon! To apply and get more details go to https://jamwithjcal.tech brought to you by .tech domains.
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at http://www.vanta.com/twist
*
Todays show:
Ivan Poupyrev of Archetype AI joins Jason to demo Archetype AI’s product “Newton” and discuss the application of sensors in various industries (2:55). The two also dive into anticipatory interfaces (44:14), the role of sensor technology in AI (31:09), and the potential for robots in various industries (28:12).
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Ivan Poupyrev of Archetype AI joins Jason.
(2:55) Demo of Archetype AI's product, Newton, which interprets and processes motion data
(9:22) .Tech Domains - Apply for the Jam Session with JCal contest today at https://jamwithjcal.tech
(10:48) Exploration of potential business model and use cases for Archetype AI
(22:15) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(23:30) Use cases in aviation, military, and automotive industry
(28:12) The connection between robots and artificial intelligence
(30:17) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(31:09) The evolution of sensor technology and its role in AI
(44:14) The pace of technological innovation and the future of anticipatory interfaces
(49:00) Future plans for Archetype AI, hiring and partnership opportunities
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
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Check out Archetype AI: https://www.archetypeai.io
*
Follow Ivan:
X: https://x.com/ipoupyrev
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-poupyrev
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:21) .Tech Domains - Apply for the Jam Session with JCal contest today at https://jamwithjcal.tech
(22:17) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(30:20) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
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TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
LinkedIn Jobs. A business is only as strong as its people, and every hire matters. Go to https://www.linkedin.com/twist to post your first job for free. Terms and conditions apply.
Eight Sleep. Good sleep is the ultimate game changer. The newest generation of the pod, the Pod 4 ultra has arrived. Head to https://www.eightsleep.com/twist and use code TWIST to get $350 off the Pod 4 Ultra.
HiddenLayer. Generative AI is revolutionizing industries. HiddenLayer’s AI Detection & Response Solution secures your Generative AI & LLMs from malicious attack. Helping you generate more – by enabling seamless & secure Generative AI. Visit https://www.HiddenLayer.com/TWiST to learn more.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Sunny joins Jason to dive into this week’s AI news and demos.
(2:10) OpenAI did their big reveal on Monday and review on Sam Altman’s appearance on the All In podcast
(5:40) A dive into what OpenAI launched this week.
(10:11) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist(13:12) OpenAI’s new model, where the “o” stands for omni, means it can now reason across audio, vision, and text in real-time.(17:21) Open AI’s “memory” setting and their new MacOS desktop app!(19:43) Eight Sleep - Head to https://www.eightsleep.com/twist and use code TWIST to get $350 off the Pod 4 Ultra.(22:37) Jason highlights the startup Athena.(25:53) Looking at the improvements on the new ChatGPT 4o model.(29:31) HiddenLayer - HiddenLayer’s AI Detection & Response Solution secures your Generative AI & LLMs from malicious attack. Visit https://www.HiddenLayer.com/TWiST to learn more.(32:34) Breaking down the pricing of the new vs historic ChatGPT models.(35:31) Jason demos Recall.(42:19) Sunny shares Labs.Google and NotebookLM.
(46:03) Labs.Google and “AI Overviews”
*
Check out ChatGPT 4o: https://chatgpt.com/?model=gpt-4o
Check out Labs Google: https://labs.google/
Check out Groq: https://groq.com/
Check out article “Apple Nears Deal With OpenAI to Put ChatGPT on iPhone”: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-05-11/apple-closes-in-on-deal-with-openai-to-put-chatgpt-on-iphone
Check out Athena: https://www.athenago.com/
Check out Recall: https://www.getrecall.ai/
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Sunny:
X: https://twitter.com/sundeep
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sundeepm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:11) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist(19:43) Eight Sleep - Head to https://www.eightsleep.com/twist and use code TWIST to get $350 off the Pod 4 Ultra.(29:31) HiddenLayer - HiddenLayer’s AI Detection & Response Solution secures your Generative AI & LLMs from malicious attack. Visit https://www.HiddenLayer.com/TWiST to learn more.*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
Northwest Registered Agent. Northwest Registered Agent will form your business quickly and easily. In just 10 clicks and 10 minutes, set up your entire business identity—name, address, mail service, phone, email, website, and domain. For just $39 plus state fees, Northwest will handle your complete business identity. Visit northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today.
Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers, get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
*
Todays show:
Dr. Justin Terry joins Jason to discuss the future of work, education, and the unique impact of Opportunity Central (The OC). They explore how the school incorporates entrepreneurship (9:03), addresses community needs (22:00), and more!
*
Timestamps(0:00) The OC’s Dr. Justin Terry joins Jason
(1:38) The OC, leveling the playing field in education, and the future of job availability
(7:42) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(9:03) Exploration of the unique educational facility and its impact on local businesses
(15:15) Incorporating entrepreneurship and future ready skills in education
(20:13) Northwest Registered Agent - For just $39 plus state fees, Northwest will handle your complete business identity. Visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today.
(21:32) Addressing community needs through the educational facility
(31:00) Considering expansions and potential partnerships for the facility
(37:42) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(39:03) The impact of the new educational model on students and equalizing opportunities
(51:56) The role of entrepreneurship in public education
*
Check out The OC: https://www.theoc.net
*
Follow Dr. Justin Terry:
X: https://twitter.com/justinwterry
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-terry-133761aa
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Thank you to our partners:
(7:42) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(20:13) Northwest Registered Agent - For just $39 plus state fees, Northwest will handle your complete business identity. Visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today.
(37:42) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
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TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Mercury - 90% of startups fail. Just 10 out of every 100 make it. Mercury exists to close that gap — helping companies succeed with banking and credit cards engineered for the startup journey. Join over 100,000 companies banking with Mercury at http://www.mercury.com
NetSuite - The number one cloud financial system, bringing accounting, financial management, inventory, and HR, into ONE platform. Giving you ONE source of truth. By popular demand, NetSuite has extended its one-of-a-kind flexible financing program for a few more weeks! Head to http://www.NetSuite.com/twist
Curotec - Are you one of those companies that knows you need to be using AI, but you're not even sure where to start? Well, then, you need Curotec. They are AI experts, and they're offering TWiST listeners an AI Strategy Roadmap tailored to your business for $5000. That's 50% off the normal cost just for telling them we sent you. Check out http://www.curotec.com/twist and get $5000 off!
*
Max Altman and Ben Braverman of Saga VC join guest host Mark Suster to discuss building up Saga VC’s maiden voyage fund (2:23), the advantage of witnessing “great” at the top of the industry (21:14), praise for Saga VC’s Thomson Nguyen (52:59), and more!
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
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Check out Saga VC website: https://www.sagavc.com/Check out Saga VC on X: https://twitter.com/Saga_Ventures
*
Follow Max:
X: https://twitter.com/maxaltman
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxhaltman/
*
Follow Ben:
X: https://twitter.com/braveben
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-braverman-a1120314/
*
Follow Thomson:
X: https://twitter.com/itsthomson
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/randomforest/
*
Follow Mark:
X: https://twitter.com/msuster
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marksuster/
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Thank you to our partners:
(9:48) Mercury - Join 100K+ startups banking with Mercury at http://www.mercury.com
(19:58) NetSuite. By popular demand, NetSuite has extended its one-of-a-kind flexible financing program for a few more weeks! Head to http://www.NetSuite.com/twist
(29:16) Curotec - Check out http://www.curotec.com/twist and get $5000 off
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at http://www.vanta.com/twist
DevSquad. Most dev agencies only offer developers. Why? Because product management is hard. Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist.
Hubspot Podcast Network. Hubspot Podcast Network presents a new podcast called The Next Wave. The Next Wave is your personal Chief AI Officer, bringing fresh takes, industry insights and a trustworthy perspective on how to implement AI to grow your business. Just search for “The Next Wave” on YouTube or in your favorite podcast app. “The Large Language Model Race with Pete Huang, Founder of The Neuron” episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8elHTM9cOOA
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Todays show:
Jake Loosararian of Gecko Robotics joins Jason to discuss the purpose-designed robots being built at Gecko (3:01), the value of “bear hugging” your key customers (23:39), the “BOM” of current and future robots (1:02:14), and more!
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Timestamps:
(0:00) Jake Loosararian of Gecko Robotics joins Jason.
(3:01) The purpose-designed robots being built at Gecko.
(7:03) Origin story behind Jake’s startup.
(9:45) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(10:38) Show us the robots!
(17:43) Details on the frequency of needed infrastructure inspections.(19:24) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist(23:39) The value of “bear hugging” your key customers.(27:42) Bridging physical and digital with Gecko’s Cantilever digital twins.(29:36) Hubspot for Podcast Networks - The Next Wave: https://www.youtube.com/@TheNextWavePod “The Large Language Model Race with Pete Huang, Founder of The Neuron” episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8elHTM9cOOA
(33:50) Extending the value of inspections with fixed sensors.(46:47) Opening up the conversation to the AI data collected.
(54:44) Why some robotics companies fail while others succeed.
(1:02:14) The “BOM” of current and future robots.
(1:06:29) Where humanoid robots may first be “employed”.
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
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Check out Gecko Robotics: https://www.geckorobotics.com/
*
Follow Jake:
X: https://twitter.com/loosararian_j
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jake-loosararian-23981350/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:45) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(19:24) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist(29:36) Hubspot for Podcast Networks - The Next Wave: https://www.youtube.com/@TheNextWavePod “The Large Language Model Race with Pete Huang, Founder of The Neuron” episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8elHTM9cOOA
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
Squarespace - Turn your idea into a new website! Go to http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
LinkedIn Ads - To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
Dot Tech Domains - Dot Tech domains are the go-to namespace to build anything in tech… and home to the world’s most innovative startups. Keep an eye out for our “Jam Session with JCal” contest… coming soon! Be sure to secure your .Tech domain today at https://get.tech/jason
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Todays show:
Ian Cinnamon joins guest host Mark Suster to discuss all things space tech; including: the importance of building Apex in L.A. (4:49), the drastic change in costs for satellites (16:03), their first Aries Satellite bus on it’s maiden voyage (30:29), and more!
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Timestamps:
(0:00) Ian Cinnamon joins guest host Mark Suster.
(1:53) Why space is a hot sector right now with startups and investors.
(4:49) The importance of building Apex in L.A.
(6:44) Ian’s background and what brought him to the space industry.
(9:52) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(11:13) Origin story and perfect fit with Apex co-founder Max Benassi.
(13:25) What Apex does and why Max’s manufacturing skillset matters.
(16:03) Cost of satellites then and now.
(19:55) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(21:25) Details about the sateliilite bus at Apex.
(23:43) The differences and business implications of LEO, MEO and GEO.
(29:15) Dot Tech Domains - Be sure to secure your .Tech domain today at https://get.tech/jason
(30:29) Their first Aries Satellite bus on it’s maiden voyage and a selfie from space.
(53:30) The current scale and expected growth at Apex.
(56:19) Competitions in the “space” space.
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Check out Apex: https://www.apexspace.com
*
Follow Ian:
X: https://twitter.com/IanCinnamon
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iancinnamon/
*
Follow Mark:
X: https://twitter.com/msuster
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marksuster/
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:52) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(19:55) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(29:15) Dot Tech Domains - Be sure to secure your .Tech domain today at https://get.tech/jason
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Equinix. The Equinix Startup program offers a hybrid infrastructure solution for startups, including up to $100K in credits and personalized consultations and guidance from the Equinix team. Go to https://deploy.equinix.com/startups to apply today.
CLA. Innovation takes balance. CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors can help you get from startup to where you want to end up. Get started now at https://www.claconnect.com/tech
HubSpot. If you’re fundraising, be sure to check out the Million Dollar pitch competition from Hubspot for Startups & HubSpot Ventures. Apply now at https://www.hubspot.com/milliondollarpitch
*
Todays show:
Extern’s Matt Wilkerson joins Jason to discuss the concept of externships and their role in bridging the gap between academic curriculum and job market reality. They delve into the demand for cybersecurity professionals (14:18), the value externships offer in career path decisions (28:43), and the impact and evolution of Extern (37:20).
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Extern’s Matt Wilkerson joins Jason
(4:22) The concept of externships and he problem of student loans and work experience
(7:04) Equinix - Join the Equinix Startup Program for up to $100K in credits and much more at https://deploy.equinix.com/startups
(8:09) The Extern student experience
(14:18) The demand for cybersecurity professionals and the benefits of externships
(19:11) The gap between academic curriculum and job market reality
(23:58) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech
(25:30) The value of externships in helping students figure out their career paths
(33:02) HubSpot - Be sure to check out the Million Dollar pitch competition from Hubspot for Startups & HubSpot Ventures. Apply now at https://www.hubspot.com/milliondollarpitch
(34:17) The impact of Extern on students and the job market
(46:04) Understanding customers and the evolution of Extern
(52:11) The mission of Extern and advice for new founders
*
Mentioned on the show:https://www.hotjar.com/net-promoter-score
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Matt:
X: https://twitter.com/mwilker
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattwilkerson/
Check out: https://www.extern.com/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(7:04) Equinix - Join the Equinix Startup Program for up to $100K in credits and much more at https://deploy.equinix.com/startups
(23:58) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech
(33:02) HubSpot - Be sure to check out the Million Dollar pitch competition from Hubspot for Startups & HubSpot Ventures. Apply now at https://www.hubspot.com/milliondollarpitch
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
NetSuite. The number one cloud financial system, bringing accounting, financial management, inventory, and HR, into ONE platform. Giving you ONE source of truth. By popular demand, NetSuite has extended its one-of-a-kind flexible financing program for a few more weeks! Head to https://www.netsuite.com/liquidity
Attio - A radically new CRM for the next era of companies. Head to https://attio.com/twist to get 15% off for your first year.
*
Todays show:
David Weisburd hosts Joshua Berkowitz, Donald Stalter and Jason Calacanis to discuss Elon Musk raising $6B for his new AI startup (5:02), PitchBook's report on Emerging Managers (17:32), SVB’s venture portfolio situation (44:18), and much more!
*
Liquidity Timestamps:
(0:00) David Weisburd intros Joshua Berkowitz, Donald Stalter and Jason Calacanis
(5:02) Elon Musk raises $6B for his new AI startup
(9:49) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(13:16) Sequoia leading a $6B round for AI
(17:32) PitchBook's report on Emerging Managers
(20:38) NetSuite - By popular demand, NetSuite has extended its one-of-a-kind flexible financing program for a few more weeks! Head to https://www.netsuite.com/liquidity
(28:18) The impact of the surge of venture capital in 2021 and its implications for the ecosystem
(30:41) Attio - Head to https://attio.com/twist to get 15% off for your first year.
(34:42) The impact of a positive investor attitude on founders
(44:18) The Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) venture portfolio situation
(49:33) Lightning round of last 3 investments
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:49) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(20:38) NetSuite - By popular demand, NetSuite has extended its one-of-a-kind flexible financing program for a few more weeks! Head to https://www.netsuite.com/liquidity
(30:41) Attio - Head to https://attio.com/twist to get 15% off for your first year.
*
Mentioned on show:
https://www.axios.com/2024/05/03/svb-venture-capital-arm
*
Follow Donald:
X: https://twitter.com/donnystalter
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donaldstalter
Check out:
https://www.fieldguide.io
https://www.permitflow.com
https://slopepay.com
*
Follow Joshua:
X: https://twitter.com/berkowitz_josh
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-berkowitz-86005b23/
Check out:
https://dexa.ai
https://powerset.co
*
Follow David:
X: https://twitter.com/DWeisburd
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dweisburd
Check out: https://10xcapital.com
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Check out the Launch Accelerator: https://launchaccelerator.co
*
Check out Founder University: https://www.founder.university
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Hubspot for Podcast Networks - Looking to up your marketing game? Check out the podcast: Marketing Against the Grain: https://lnk.to/h3vKHnTW. Hosted by Hubspot CMO Kipp Bodnar and Zapier CMO Kieran Flannigan. They bring you the latest in marketing trends, growth tactics and innovation. “The Best AI Tools For Marketers In 2024” episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DeeVKUuEv6Y. Available on all your favorite podcast apps.
LinkedIn Jobs. A business is only as strong as its people, and every hire matters. Go to LinkedIn.com/TWIST to post your first job for free. Terms and conditions apply.
Zendesk. The best customer experiences are built with Zendesk. Qualifying startups can join their Startup program and get Zendesk products free, for six months! Visit http://www.zendesk.com/twist today to get started.
*
Todays show:
Bob Moesta joins Jason to discuss important customer interview methods, such as the concept and importance of deep listening (7:21), quantitative vs. qualitative and hypothesis-building research (13:08), “The jeweller effect” and building trust (37:47), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Bob Moesta of the Re-Wired Group joins Jason.
(2:33) Jumping into Bob's origin stories and the early lessons that shaped his career.
(4:59) Unpacking the concepts of “the customer is not always right” and that they don’t actually know what they want.
(7:21) The concept and importance of deep listening.
(8:52) Bob’s use of “the death day” and learning the value of time.
(10:57) Hubspot for Podcast Networks - Marketing Against the Grain: https://lnk.to/h3vKHnTW. “The Best AI Tools For Marketers In 2024” episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DeeVKUuEv6Y
(13:08) Quantitative vs qualitative and hypothesis-building research.
(16:51) Bob’s four amazing mentors and how they turned him from an illiterate eighteen-year-old into an innovation machine.
(20:16) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
(21:40) The dangers of identifying personas and “the secret sauce”.
(26:08) Drawing importance from the “irrational decision”, as context drives the rationale.
(28:28) Bob explains his approach to interviews.
(31:00) Zendesk - Get six months free at http://www.zendesk.com/twist
(32:32) Applying these concepts to a customer buying a diamond or health care.
(37:47) “The jeweller effect” and how do you cause trust?
(40:48) Making people problem aware.
(47:45) Applying the fact that people learn out of routine to the electric car customer.
(54:18) The concept of nostalgia.
(1:03:08) Bob’s current book he is writing about what causes someone to leave one company and go to another.
(1:15:57) At what stage is a company that hires the Re-Wired Group?
*
Check out The Re-Wired Group: https://www.anomalo.com/
Check out Bob’s website and publications: https://www.bobmoesta.com/
*
Check out Founder Fridays: https://www.founderfridays.tech/
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Bob:
X: https://twitter.com/bmoesta?lang=en
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobmoesta/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
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Thank you to our partners:
(10:57) Hubspot for Podcast Networks - Marketing Against the Grain: https://lnk.to/h3vKHnTW. “The Best AI Tools For Marketers In 2024” episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DeeVKUuEv6Y
(20:16) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
(31:00) Zendesk - Get six months free at http://www.zendesk.com/twist
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
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TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Eppo. Experimentation is how generation-defining companies win. Accelerate your experimentation velocity with Eppo. Visit https://www.geteppo.com/twist
Eight Sleep. Good sleep is the ultimate game changer. Now you can add the Pod Cover to any mattress! Go to https://www.eightsleep.com/twist to check out the Pod Cover and get $200 off the pod plus free shipping!
Mercury. 90% of startups fail. Just 10 out of every 100 make it. Mercury exists to close that gap — helping companies succeed with banking and credit cards engineered for the startup journey. Join over 100,000 companies banking with Mercury at http://www.mercury.com
*
Todays show:
Jason and Presh kick off the Founder University pitch competition (00:00), then we hear from Peter on Props AI (10:17), Alan on 2ndHandGeek (21:15), and Alex on Zweelie (37:18). Finally, Jason awards a $25K investment (), and details how to apply!
*
Timestamps:
(00:00) Jason kicks off the show!
(1:16) Jason brings on Presh to introduce today's pitches!
(9:17) Eppo. Accelerate your experimentation velocity with Eppo. Visit https://www.geteppo.com/twist
(10:17) Peter Kirkham pitches Props AI
(19:45) Eight Sleep - Go to https://www.eightsleep.com/twist for $200 off the Pod plus free shipping
(21:15) Alan Blakeborough Pitches 2ndHandGeek
(36:16) Mercury - Join 100K+ startups banking with Mercury at http://www.mercury.com
(37:18) Alex Hanna pitches Zweelie
(41:44) Jason picks the startup he will invest in!
(43:26) Advice for founders and Q&A
*
Founder University: Cohort 8 begins May 9th! Apply here: https://www.founder.university
*
We are doing Founder Fridays! Go check out https://founderfridays.tech
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Peter:
X: https://twitter.com/k11kirky
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-kirkham
Props AI: www.getprops.ai
*
Follow Alan:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/f3zorroblake
2ndHandGeek: https://exchange.2ndhandgeek.com
*
Follow Alex:
X: http://x.com/_alexhanna
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-hanna-founder
Zweelie: http://zweelie.com
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:17) Eppo. Accelerate your experimentation velocity with Eppo. Visit https://www.geteppo.com/twist
(19:45) Eight Sleep - Go to https://www.eightsleep.com/twist for $200 off the Pod plus free shipping
(36:16) Mercury - Join 100K+ startups banking with Mercury at http://www.mercury.com
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
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TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website!
Go to http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at http://www.vanta.com/twist
Wistia. All-in-one video platform for business, with tools that help you create, manage, and measure the impact of your videos. Try Wistia for free at http://www.wistia.com/startups
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Sunny joins Jason to dive into this week’s AI news and demos.
(1:52) Various user-driven enhancements to Llama 3
(8:28) Abacus runs Llama-3 locally on your iPhone.
(10:31) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(11:54) ChatGPT's new memory feature
(18:43) Deep dive into the advancements in self-driving car technology and Tesla’s FSD
(21:43) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(24:30) Sunny breaks down how far we are away to different degrees of self-driving cars.(29:22) Wistia - Try Wistia for free at https://wistia.com/startups
(33:48) Sunny weighs the possibility of a Robotaxi death in the next couple of years.
(37:11) Sunny’s theory that the leader in autonomous cars will be the one to use the Uber model.
(46:02) Jason has producer Cort jump on the pod to try out an “AI Death Calculator”.
(51:10) Sunny demos Vibecheck.
(59:49) Sunny demos Wisdolia.
(1:02:25) Sunny demos Globe Engineer
*
Check out Groq: https://groq.com/
Check out the tweet about Llama-3: https://twitter.com/minchoi/status/1784907752659161432?s=42&t=79J_alIF_jrz1wn1s5pboQ
Check out vibecheck: https://vibecheck.market/
Check out Globe Engineer: https://explorer.globe.engineer/
Check out qobuz: https://www.qobuz.com/ca-en/discover
Check out Waymo: https://waymo.com/
Check out Wisdolia: https://app.wisdolia.com/
Check out Monic.AI: https://monic.ai/
Check out the Ai Death Calculator: https://life2vec.io/
Check out Founder Fridays: http://www.thisweekinstartups.com/meetups
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Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Sunny:
X: https://twitter.com/sundeep
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sundeepm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:31) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(21:43) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(29:22) Wistia - Try Wistia for free at https://wistia.com/startups
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
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TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
NetSuite. The number one cloud financial system, bringing accounting, financial management, inventory, and HR, into ONE platform. Giving you ONE source of truth. By popular demand, NetSuite has extended its one-of-a-kind flexible financing program for a few more weeks! Head to https://www.netsuite.com/liquidity
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
HiddenLayer. Generative AI is revolutionizing industries. HiddenLayer’s AI Detection & Response Solution secures your Generative AI & LLMs from malicious attack. Helping you generate more – by enabling seamless & secure Generative AI. Visit https://www.HiddenLayer.com/TWiST to learn more.
*
Todays show:
David Weisburd hosts Jeff Richards, Ryan Denehy, and Jason Calacanis to discuss down rounds in startups (5:26), changing operations in response to market shifts (23:07), and impact of AI & remote work on job availability (1:02:17).
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) David Weisburd intros Jeff Richards, Ryan Denehy, and Jason Calacanis
(5:26) Down rounds and cram down rounds in VC deals
(13:06) NetSuite - By popular demand, NetSuite has extended its one-of-a-kind flexible financing program for a few more weeks! Head to https://www.netsuite.com/liquidity
(14:22) The terms of investment and the importance of good business fundamentals
(21:67) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
(23:24) Changing operations in response to market shifts
(30:20) Increasing deal flow and setting ambitious goals
(35:32) HiddenLayer. HiddenLayer’s AI Detection & Response Solution secures your Generative AI & LLMs from malicious attack. Visit https://www.HiddenLayer.com/TWiST to learn more
(37:26) AI adoption in startups and businesses
(1:02:33) The role of remote work in shaping the global economy and the potential of offshore hiring
(1:09:34) Comparing the fundraising process pre and post COVID
(1:14:30) Wrap up: Jeff's latest 3 investments and Ryan's company, https://www.Electric.ai
*
Follow Jeff:
X: https://twitter.com/jrichlive
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrichards
Check out: https://notablecap.com/
*
Follow Ryan:
X: https://twitter.com/denehyxxl
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryandenehy
Check out: https://www.electric.ai/
*
Follow David:
X: https://twitter.com/DWeisburd
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dweisburd
Check out: https://10xcapital.com
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(13:06) NetSuite - By popular demand, NetSuite has extended its one-of-a-kind flexible financing program for a few more weeks! Head to https://www.netsuite.com/liquidity
(21:67) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
(35:32) HiddenLayer. HiddenLayer’s AI Detection & Response Solution secures your Generative AI & LLMs from malicious attack. Visit https://www.HiddenLayer.com/TWiST to learn more
*
Check out the Launch Accelerator: https://launchaccelerator.co
*
Check out Founder University: https://www.founder.university
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
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TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Coda. A new doc that brings words, tables and teams together. All your valuable data, plans, objectives, and strategies in one place. Go to https://www.coda.io/twist to get a $1,000 credit!
Northwest Registered Agent. When starting your business, it's important to use a service that will actually help you. Northwest Registered Agent is that service. They'll form your company fast, give you the documents you need to open a business bank account, and even provide you with mail scanning and a business address to keep your personal privacy intact. Visit - http://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/ twist to get a 60% discount on your next LLC.
NetSuite. Once your business gets to a certain size the cracks start to emerge. Things you used to do in a day take a week. You deserve a customized solution - and that's NetSuite. Learn more when you download NetSuite’s popular KPI Checklist - absolutely free, at http://www.NetSuite.com/twist
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Edward Brawer joins Jason to dive into PodcastAI
(3:25) Introduction and origin story of Edward Brawer's entry into the podcasting AI technology
(5:42) Discussion on the features and benefits of PodcastAI, including its ability to automate podcast production processes
(9:40) Finding product-market-fit for PodcastAI
(11:38) Coda - Get started for free at https://www.coda.io/twist
(13:06) The success of their original cold calls to find those first first customers
(15:04) Main features and outline of PodcastAI version 1.0
(20:19) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at http://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(21:51) Hot feature they just launched: viral moments of your pod
(29:20) NetSuite - Download your free KPI Checklist at http://www.NetSuite.com/twist
(31:33) A feature they made specifically from feedback from the All-in pod
(34:33) The hilarious origin story of Edward and Jason revolved around an AI version of Jason that, in turn, created an AI version of David Sacks
*
Check out Podcast AI: https://podcastai.com/
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
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Follow Edward:
X: https://twitter.com/edwardbrawer
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edwardbrawer/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(11:38) Coda - Get started for free at https://www.coda.io/twist
(20:19) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at http://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(29:20) NetSuite - Download your free KPI Checklist at http://www.NetSuite.com/twist
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
LinkedIn Jobs. A business is only as strong as its people, and every hire matters. Go to https://www.linkedin.com/twist to post your first job for free. Terms and conditions apply.
Mantle. The AI-powered equity management platform designed for modern founders and operators. Get your first 12 months free at https://www.withmantle.com/twist
HubSpot. If you’re fundraising, be sure to check out the Million Dollar pitch competition from Hubspot for Startups & HubSpot Ventures. Apply now at https://www.hubspot.com/milliondollarpitch
*
Todays show:
Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Charles Duhigg joins Jason to discuss the different types of conversations (9:29), the role of humor (22:48), and they way conversation dynamics can shift (49:30).
*
Timestamps(0:00) Charles Duhigg joins Jason to break down his latest publishing, Supercommunicators
(4:01) The importance of communication in startups and lessons from "The Power of Habit”
(8:06) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
(9:29) The role of communication in organizations and the different types of conversations
(21:30) Mantle - Get your first 12 months free at https://withmantle.com/twist
(22:48) Exploring the role of humor, laughter, and vulnerability in conversations
(30:06) Understanding gender and cultural differences in communication
(39:23) HubSpot - Be sure to check out the Million Dollar pitch competition from Hubspot for Startups & HubSpot Ventures. Apply now at https://www.hubspot.com/milliondollarpitch
(40:34) The role anecdotes have in conversation
(49:30) How the dynamic of the conversation shifts when someone has an ask
(1:01:35) The Harvard Study of Adult Development
(1:06:36) Closing remarks
*
Check out Supercommunicators: https://www.charlesduhigg.com/supercommunicators
*
Follow Charles:
X: https://twitter.com/cduhigg
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlesduhigg/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Thank you to our partners:
(8:06) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist (21:30) Mantle - Get your first 12 months free at https://www.withmantle.com/twist (39:23) HubSpot - Be sure to check out Hubspot for Startups & HubSpot Ventures for their Million Dollar pitch competition. Apply now at https://www.hubspot.com/milliondollarpitch
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
*
Founder University: Cohort 8 begins May 9th. Apply here: https://www.founder.university
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at http://www.vanta.com/twist
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to https://www.Squarespace.com/twist for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
Mercury. 90% of startups fail. Just 10 out of every 100 make it. Mercury exists to close that gap — helping companies succeed with banking and credit cards engineered for the startup journey. Join over 100,000 companies banking with Mercury at http://www.mercury.com
*
Todays show:
Jason kicks off Ask Jason live! 5 live guests ask questions on key topics, including finding job opportunities (1:43), the “likely winner” and “definitive winner” framework (26:19), how a non-AI startup with traction can stand out to potential investors (1:04:05), and more!
*
Timestamps(0:00) Jason kicks off another Ask Jason with 5 live guests!
(1:43) Dustin asks about how to find job opportunities and market his generalist skills
(9:50) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(10:42) Dustin asks about how to find job opportunities and market his generalist skills
(24:57) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/twist
(26:19) Francis asks about defining the terms "likely winner" and "definitive winner" in a strategic framework using specific metrics
(39:15) Mercury - Join 100K+ startups banking with Mercury at http://www.mercury.com
(40:17) Mathew asks about choosing between mission-aligned sponsors and more lucrative, unrelated advertising opportunities for his podcast
(52:23) Jason asks whether to continue low-cost growth strategies or seek seed funding to boost growth through advertising, as their product is the advertising itself
(1:04:05) Douglas asks about how a non-AI startup with traction can stand out to potential investors
(1:15:37) Host or join Founder Fridays! Go check out https://founderfridays.tech
*
Send us your questions for the next episode of Ask Jason LIVE! http://www.thisweekinstartups.com/askjason
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:50) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(24:57) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/twist
(39:15) Mercury - Join 100K+ startups banking with Mercury at http://www.mercury.com
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
*
Founder University: Cohort 8 begins May 9th. Apply here: https://www.founder.university
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
LinkedIn Ads. To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
Curotec. Are you one of those companies that knows you need to be using AI, but you're not even sure where to start? Well then you need Curotec. They are AI experts, and they're offering TWiST listeners an AI Strategy Roadmap tailored to your business for $5000. That's 50% off the normal cost just for telling them we sent you. Check out http://www.curotec.com/twist and get $5000 off!
Zendesk. The best customer experiences are built with Zendesk. Qualifying startups can join their Startup program and get Zendesk products free, for six months! Visit http://www.zendesk.com/twist today to get started.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Sunny joins Jason to dive into this week’s AI news and demos.
(2:03) Examination of Facebook's Llama 3 model, its impact on the AI community, and its superior performance compared to GPT-4 despite being a smaller model.
(4:45) Open source vs. commercial products
(9:14) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(10:42) Three big projects where Facebook has affected the open community.
(15:38) US Air Foruce staging dogfights with AI-flown fighter jets.(19:09) Curotec - Check out http://www.curotec.com/twist and get $5000 off
(21:06) Looking at Grok’s capabilities in first-party research.
(27:35) Zendesk - Get six months free at http://www.zendesk.com/twist
(29:08) Jason asks Grok a more “spicey” question regarding Trump.
(40:46) Sunny demos Marblism.
(45:33) Sunny demos Lumona*
Check out Marblism: https://www.marblism.com
Check out Lumona:https://www.lumona.ai
Article “US Air Force stages dogfights with AI-flown fighter jet” https://www.defensenews.com/air/2024/04/19/us-air-force-stages-dogfights-with-ai-flown-fighter-jet
Check out Groq: https://groq.com
Check out qobuz: https://www.qobuz.com/ca-en/discover
Article: Meta is opening up Horizon OS to third parties, Asus and Lenovo first with new headsets https://www.gsmarena.com/meta_is_opening_up_horizon_os_to_third_parties_asus_and_lenovo_first_with_new_headsets_-news-62561.php
Check out Waymo: https://waymo.com
Check out Founder Fridays: http://www.thisweekinstartups.com/meetups
Check out Bubble: https://bubble.io
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Sunny:
X: https://twitter.com/sundeep
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sundeepm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:14) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(19:09) Curotec - Check out http://www.curotec.com/twist and get $5000 off
(27:35) Zendesk - Get six months free at http://www.zendesk.com/twist
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
Eppo. Experimentation is how generation-defining companies win. Accelerate your experimentation velocity with Eppo. Visit https://www.geteppo.com/twist
HiddenLayer. Generative AI is revolutionizing industries. HiddenLayer’s AI Detection & Response Solution secures your Generative AI & LLMs from malicious attack. Helping you generate more – by enabling seamless & secure Generative AI. Visit https://www.HiddenLayer.com/TWiST to learn more.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Sunny joins Jason to dive into this week's AI news and demos.
(1:39) AI, LLMs, and Groq infrastructure discussion.
(9:32) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
(11:00 ) Meta's AI landing page, new search engine, and investment strategies
(20:06 ) Eppo. Accelerate your experimentation velocity with Eppo. Visit https://www.geteppo.com/twist
(23:19) Zuckerberg's approach towards Google's dominance and the impact of Meta's search engine
(30:19) HiddenLayer. HiddenLayer’s AI Detection & Response Solution secures your Generative AI & LLMs from malicious attack. Visit https://www.HiddenLayer.com/TWiST to learn more.
(32:11) Importance of a dedicated domain name and Google's commitment to Google Plus
(34:36) Meta's progress in AI and the strategy of open sourcing
(45:34) The industrial revolution in technology, AI development, and rights issues
*
Check out Meta AI: https://www.meta.ai/
Check out Groq: https://groq.com/
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Sunny:
X: https://twitter.com/sundeep
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sundeepm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:32) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
(20:06 ) Eppo. Accelerate your experimentation velocity with Eppo. Visit https://www.geteppo.com/twist
(30:19) HiddenLayer. HiddenLayer’s AI Detection & Response Solution secures your Generative AI & LLMs from malicious attack. Visit https://www.HiddenLayer.com/TWiST to learn more.
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Hubspot for Podcast Network. Looking to up your marketing game?
Check out HubSpot's Chatbot Builder: https://clickhubspot.com/s0u
Chatbot Tutorial here: https://clickhubspot.com/mfx
DevSquad. Most dev agencies only offer developers. Why? Because product management is hard. Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at https://www.devsquad.com/twist
Mercury. 90% of startups fail. Just 10 out of every 100 make it. Mercury exists to close that gap — helping companies succeed with banking and credit cards engineered for the startup journey. Join over 100,000 companies banking with Mercury at http://www.mercury.com
*
Todays show:
David Weisburd hosts Logan Bartlett, Hunter Somerville, and Jason Calacanis to discuss the fundraising market (3:07), M&A (26:45), Google’s huge investment in generative AI (58:15), and much more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) David Weisburd intros Logan Bartlett, Hunter Somerville, and Jason Calacanis
(3:07) Tiger's recent fund and fundraising indicators
(11:55) HubSpot’s Chatbot Builder - https://clickhubspot.com/s0u https://clickhubspot.com/mfx
(13:26) The challenges and realities of venture capital
(25:14) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at https://www.devsquad.com/twist
(26:45) Startup acquisitions, due diligence, and unethical behaviors in the industry
(31:27) Selling partial positions in startups and structuring the selling of shares
(37:18) Mercury - Join 100K+ startups banking with Mercury at http://www.mercury.com
(38:20) Cendana and Kline Hill’s $105M fund to buy stakes in seed VC funds
(46:59) The correlation between capital consumption and equity value, and the dangers of excess capital
(54:28) The role of private equity in tech M&A and the future of tech IPOs
(58:15) Google's $100 billion investment in AI and competition in the AI ecosystem
(1:06:30) The challenge of capacity in seed stage investing and the value of a strong community in portfolio management
*
Follow Logan:
X: https://twitter.com/loganbartlett
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/loganbartlett
Check out: https://www.redpoint.com
*
Follow Hunter:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hunter-somerville-2a24117
Check out: https://www.stepstonegroup.com/
*
Follow David:
X: https://twitter.com/DWeisburd
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dweisburd
Check out: https://10xcapital.com
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(11:55) HubSpot’s Chatbot Builder - https://clickhubspot.com/s0u https://clickhubspot.com/mfx
(25:14) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at https://www.devsquad.com/twist
(37:18) Mercury - Join 100K+ startups banking with Mercury at http://www.mercury.com
*
Check out the Launch Accelerator: https://launchaccelerator.co
*
Check out Founder University: https://www.founder.university
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at http://www.vanta.com/twist
The Equinix Startup program offers a hybrid infrastructure solution for startups, including up to $100K in credits and personalized consultations and guidance from the Equinix team. Go to https://deploy.equinix.com/startups to apply today.
*
Todays show:
Sohail Prasad joins Jason to discuss Destiny Tech 100 and why it was created (3:46), comparing the market cap to the actual holdings and the pent-up demand (11:35), how Destiny acquires the shares and how they manage both positive and negative reactions (26:49), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Sohail Prasad of Destiny (D/XYZ) joins Jason.
(3:46) Breaking down Destiny Tech 100 and why it was created.
(5:20) What is a closed-end fund and how does it fit into the ecosystem?
(8:37) The DIY approach used to bring this to the market.
(9:33) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(10:54) How Destiny Tech 100 works as a direct listing.
(11:35) Comparing the market cap to the actual holdings and the pent-up demand.
(14:46) Looking at how Sohail and the company make their profits and why he does this instead of gathering higher carry.
(18:52) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(22:05) The concerns of the swinging nature of the stock price and the long-term view.
(26:49) How Destiny acquires the shares and how they manage both positive and negative reactions.(30:26) Equinix - Join the Equinix Startup Program for up to $100K in credits and much more at https://deploy.equinix.com/startups
(34:10) Destiny’s access to financials for companies in their portfolio.(35:51) Strategy behind exits for the fund and companies that then go public.(43:13) The size of the team needed to run Dest
*
Check out Destiny (D/XYZ): https://destiny.xyz/
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Sohail:
X: https://twitter.com/sohailprasad
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sohailprasad/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:33) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(18:52) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist(30:26) Equinix - Join the Equinix Startup Program for up to $100K in credits and much more at https://deploy.equinix.com/startups
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Wistia. All-in-one video platform for business, with tools that help you create, manage, and measure the impact of your videos. Try Wistia for free at https://wistia.com/startups
Eight Sleep. Good sleep is the ultimate game changer. Now you can add the Pod Cover to any mattress! Go to https://www.eightsleep.com/twist to check out the Pod Cover and get $200 off the pod plus free shipping!
Northwest Registered Agent. When starting your business, it's important to use a service that will actually help you. Northwest Registered Agent is that service. They'll form your company fast, give you the documents you need to open a business bank account, and even provide you with mail scanning and a business address to keep your personal privacy intact. Visit - https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist to get a 60% discount on your next LLC.
*
Todays show:
Jason and Presh kick off the Founder University pitch competition (00:00), then we hear from Jared on Umbrella Sports (6:40), Linda on Mastertech (14:47), and Aleksandr on Ellis (24:20). Finally, Jason awards a $25K investment (44:17), and Presh details how to apply!
*
Timestamps:
(00:00) Jason kicks off the show!
(2:49) Jason brings on Presh to explain the fundamentals of Founder University and introduces today's pitches!
(6:40) Jared Lewandowski pitches Umbrella Sports
(13:20) Wistia - Try Wistia for free at https://wistia.com/startups
(14:47) Linda Gray pitches Mastertech
(22:51) Eight Sleep - Go to https://www.eightsleep.com/twist for $200 off the Pod plus free shipping
(24:20) Aleksandr Diamond pitches Ellis
(29:39) Jason and Presh assess the startups and their pitches
(39:43) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at - https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(44:12) Jason picks the startup he will invest in!
(44:51) Feedback on the Founder University experience
*
Founder University: Cohort 8 begins May 9th! Apply here: https://www.founder.university
*
We are doing Founder Fridays! Go check out https://founderfridays.tech
*
Follow Jared:
X: https://twitter.com/_playumbrella
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaredlewandowski
Check out Umbrella Sports: https://www.playumbrella.com
*
Follow Linda:
X: https://twitter.com/mastertechai
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/linda-gray-6433b251/
Check out Mastertech: https://www.mastertech.ai/
*
Follow Aleksandr:
X: https://twitter.com/heyaleksandr
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/asdiamond
Check out Ellis: https://ellis.so
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Thank you to our partners:
(13:20) Wistia - Try Wistia for free at https://wistia.com/startups
(22:51) Eight Sleep - Go to https://www.eightsleep.com/twist for $200 off the Pod plus free shipping
(39:43) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at -https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
*
Founder University: Cohort 8 begins May 9th. Apply here: https://www.founder.university
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Gusto is easy online payroll, benefits, and HR built for modern small businesses.
Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://www.Gusto.com/twist
Mantle. The AI-powered equity management platform designed for modern founders and operators.
Get your first 12 months free at https://www.withmantle.com/TWIST
Hubspot. Join thousands of companies that are growing better with HubSpot for Startups.
Learn more and get extra benefits for being a TWiST listener now at http://www.hubspot.com/startups/twist
*
Todays show:
Sunny joins Jason to dive into AI news and demos including, Adam Schiff and the new bill to force AI companies to reveal use of copyrighted art (9:03), Udio the recent AI music creator catching a lot of hype (17:48), the AI dictation power of Aqua (39:10), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Sunny joins Jason to dive into this weeks AI news and demos.
(4:02) AI News: Meta, Google and Intel all launched chips this week.
(9:03) Adam Schiff and the new bill to force AI companies to reveal use of copyrighted art
(9:51) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://www.gusto.com/twist
(17:48) Sunny demos Udio - the recent AI music creator catching a lot of hype.
(19:36) Mantle - Get your first 12 months free at https://www.withmantle.com/TWIST
(20:56) Sunny and Jason further explore Udio and discuss the copyright issues around AI models.
(31:45) Hubspot for Startups - Learn more and get extra benefits for being a TWiST listener now at https://www.hubspot.com/startups. Check out their report “How AI is Redefining Startup GTM Strategy” here: https://bit.ly/hubspot-ai-report
(36:31) Sunny creates a song with Udio about Jason’s passion for copyright laws.
(39:10) Sunny demos Aqua.
(45:36) Sunny demos SWE-Agent
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
LINKS:
Check out Udio: https://www.udio.com/
Rolling Stone article on Udio: https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-features/udio-ai-music-chatgpt-suno-1235001675/
Check out Aqua: https://withaqua.com/
Check out SWE-Agent: https://swe-agent.com/demo
Meta’s new chip news: https://twitter.com/Techmeme/status/1778078194345955765
Google’s new chip news: https://twitter.com/WSJ/status/1777654095601348775
Intel’s new chip news: https://twitter.com/Techmeme/status/1777725152102699026
Article on Adam Schiff introducing new bill: https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2024/apr/09/artificial-intelligence-bill-copyright-art
Check out statmuse: https://www.statmuse.com/
*
Follow Sunny:
X: https://twitter.com/sundeep
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sundeepm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:51) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://www.gusto.com/twist
(19:36) Mantle - Get your first 12 months free at https://www.withmantle.com/TWIST
(31:45) Hubspot for Startups - Learn more and get extra benefits for being a TWiST listener now at https://www.hubspot.com/startups. Check out their report “How AI is Redefining Startup GTM Strategy” here: https://bit.ly/hubspot-ai-report
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
CLA. Innovation takes balance. CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors can help you get from startup to where you want to end up. Get started now at CLAconnect.com/tech
Todays show:
David Weisburd hosts David Clark, Tomasz Tunguz, and Jason Calacanis to discuss the new YC class (1:59), startup valuations (19:34), the investment landscape (30:17), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(00:00) David Weisburd intros David Clark, Tomasz Tunguz, and Jason Calacanis
(1:59) The latest YC class and rise of AI startups
(9:36) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(10:55) Role of the founding team in AI startups
(19:34) Startup valuations and the changing landscape of seed deals and Series A rounds
(29:01) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
(30:17) Tomasz Tunguz’s journey to raising his fund and the challenges of the VC industry
(37:32) Personality types in venture capital and handling company wind downs
(39:20) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech
(40:52) VC’s moving out and the challenge of picking the right company to invest in
(59:27) Active reserves management
(1:09:00) Lightning round: Top 3 investments
*
Mentioned on show:
https://motherduck.com
https://arbitrum.io
https://www.omni.co
https://www.podengine.ai
https://www.getrecall.ai
https://newcomergames.com
*
Follow David Clark:
X: https://twitter.com/daveclark85
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-clark-6678b6b/
Check out VenCap: https://www.vencap.com/
*
Follow Tomasz Tunguz:
X: https://twitter.com/ttunguz
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomasztunguz
Check out Theory Ventures: https://theory.ventures
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:36) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(29:01) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
(39:20) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at http://www.vanta.com/twist
LinkedIn Ads. To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
Zendesk. The best customer experiences are built with Zendesk. Qualifying startups can join their Startup program and get Zendesk products free, for six months! Visit http://www.zendesk.com/twist today to get started.
*
Todays show:
Alef’s Jim Dukhovny joins Jason to discuss different approaches to flying car tech (1:16), Alef’s vehicle design (9:17), commercial aspects (22:39), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(00:00) Alef’s Jim Dukhovny joins Jason
(1:16) Alef’s mission and the different approaches to VTOL and flying car technologies
(8:25) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(9:17) Alef’s approach to vehicle design and use of existing technologies in a new format
(12:10) Technical details of Alef’s vehicle design, including propulsion systems and structural innovations
(14:27) Challenges of designing flying vehicles that function both as cars and aircraft
(21:11) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(22:39) Commercial aspects, including pricing, customer pre-orders, and manufacturing plans
(26:13) Regulatory and certification challenges and the potential timeline for bringing the product to market
(32:46) Zendesk - Get six months free at http://www.zendesk.com/twist
(34:16) Ballistic parachute systems in drones, planes, and Alef’s vehicles
(38:53) The long-term vision for autonomous flying cars
*
Sources:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qtzuL3WSiGY
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Gzdo107SmE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gBCUQlF3MMU
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lxaFFuN1vpc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FT4buS7avd4
*
Follow Jim:
X: https://twitter.com/AlefAeronautics
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimdukhovny
Check out Alef: https://alef.aero
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Thank you to our partners:
(8:25) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(21:11) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(32:46) Zendesk - Get six months free at http://www.zendesk.com/twist
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
LinkedIn Jobs. A business is only as strong as its people, and every hire matters. Go to LinkedIn.com/TWIST to post your first job for free. Terms and conditions apply.
Experimentation is how generation-defining companies win. Accelerate your experimentation velocity with Eppo. Visit https://geteppo.com/twist
Attio - A radically new CRM for the next era of companies. Head to attio.com/twist to get 15% off for your first year.
*
Todays show:
Liquid AI’s Ramin Hasani joins Jason to discuss the mission and the concept of Liquid AI's liquid neural networks (1:09). They dive into liquid neural networks’ applications (16:07), transition from theory to execution (21:37), their efficiency on small devices (27:30), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Liquid AI CEO and co-founder Ramin Hasani joins Jason
(1:09) Liquid AI's mission and concept of liquid neural networks
(7:06) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(8:34) Demo of Liquid AI: traditional vs. Liquid neural networks in autonomous driving
(16:07) Practical applications of Liquid AI
(20:07) Eppo. Accelerate your experimentation velocity with Eppo. Visit https://geteppo.com/twist
(21:37) Commercializing worm-inspired AI systems, building a team, and solving problems across various sectors
(27:30) Efficiency of liquid neural networks in compact devices like the Raspberry Pi and the transformative potential of AI modeled after worms.
(34:15) Attio - Head to https://attio.com/twist to get 15% off for your first year.
(35:24) Data ownership in AI and incentivizing data providers
(41:18) Role of AI in real-world applications
(43:57) Societal impact of AI, job displacement, and the optimistic view on AI's potential
(50:25) Explanation of physical models vs statistical models in AI and the challenge of understanding black box AI systems
(57:01) Speculations about AGI's market cap, who might achieve AGI first, and the potential of using AI systems to build various applications
(1:00:12) Comparison between open-source and closed-source models in AI and the trend of open-source moves in the AI industry
*
Mentioned on the show:
https://www.raspberrypi.com/products/raspberry-pi-5
https://www.capgemini.com/us-en
https://www.ctc-g.co.jp/en
https://www.accenture.com
https://www.ey.com/en_gl
https://www.cnn.com/videos/media/2024/04/02/the-daily-show-jon-stewart-ai-work-force-jobs-orig.cnn
*
Source of C. elegans worm footage:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zjqLwPgLnV0&t=1s
*
Follow Ramin:
X: https://twitter.com/ramin_m_h
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raminhasani
Check out Liquid AI: https://www.liquid.ai
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Thank you to our partners:
(7:06) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(20:07) Eppo. Accelerate your experimentation velocity with Eppo. Visit https://geteppo.com/twist
(34:15) Attio - Head to https://attio.com/twist to get 15% off for your first year.
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
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TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
DevSquad. Most dev agencies only offer developers. Why? Because product management is hard. Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist.
Hubspot for Podcast Networks. Looking to up your marketing game?
Check out the podcast: Marketing Against the Grain
Hosted by: Hubspot CMO Kipp Bodnar and Zapier CMO Kieran Flannigan
They bring you the latest in marketing trends, growth tactics and innovation.
Available on all your favorite podcast apps.
Gelt. It’s time to take control over your taxes. Discover how Gelt can help you to manage and optimize both your personal and business taxes. Visit https://joingelt.com/twist now.
*
Todays show:
David Weisburd hosts Apurva Mehta, Jack Altman, and Jason Calacanis to discuss Sam Altman’s huge investment wins (2:34), the role of SPVs (13:19), CalPERS increasing their exposure to venture (26:19), and liquidation preferences (45:56).
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) David Weisburd intros Apurva Mehta, Jack Altman, and Jason Calacanis
(2:34) Reddit's IPO and Sam Altman's investment success
(5:48) Apurva's investment strategy and thoughts on fund size and portfolio strategy
(11:50) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist
(13:19) The role of SPVs and the importance of trust in the investment ecosystem
(24:53) Marketing Against the Grain https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xHrjktuM1Dc
https://lnk.to/h3vKHnTW
(26:19) CalPERS and pension funds increasing their exposure to venture capital and private equity
(28:11) Is it a good time to invest in venture?
(41:48) Gelt. It’s time to take control over your taxes. Visit https://joingelt.com/twist now
(43:02) Fundraising and decision-making processes
(45:56) Higher liquidation preferences at the later stage
(55:49) Rapid fire segment on recent investments
*
Mentioned on the show:
https://www.retellai.com
https://www.heygen.com
https://www.owner.com
https://www.foundationhealth.com
https://peregrine.io
https://www.marvl.io
https://getprops.ai
https://www.arkitask.ai
*
Follow Apurva:
X: https://twitter.com/mehtaaapurva
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/apurvaamehta/
*
Follow Jack:
X: https://twitter.com/jaltma
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackealtman/
*
Follow David:
X: https://twitter.com/DWeisburd
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dweisburd
Check out: https://10xcapital.com
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Thank you to our partners:
(11:50) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist
(24:53) Marketing Against the Grain https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xHrjktuM1Dc
https://lnk.to/h3vKHnTW
(41:48) Gelt. It’s time to take control over your taxes. Visit https://joingelt.com/twist now
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
NetSuite. The number one cloud financial system, bringing accounting, financial management, inventory, and HR, into ONE platform. Giving you ONE source of truth. Now through April 15th, NetSuite is offering a one-of-a-kind flexible financing program. Head to http://www.NetSuite.com/twist
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
Hubspot. Join thousands of companies that are growing better with HubSpot for Startups. Learn more and get extra benefits for being a TWiST listener now at https://www.hubspot.com/startups Check out their report “How AI is Redefining Startup GTM Strategy” here: https://bit.ly/hubspot-ai-report
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Elliot Shmukler of Anomalo joins Jason to discuss growth tactics for businesses and startups.
(2:33) A primer on modern-day growth for startups from expert Elliot.
(6:20) Why referral programs are so powerful
(9:59) NetSuite. Now through April 15th, NetSuite is offering a one-of-a-kind flexible financing program. Head to http://www.NetSuite.com/twist
(11:39) The 2nd best thing you can do for the growth of your startup!
(15:55) Exploring "Give to Get" programs with examples from Elliot’s success.
(20:36) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(22:13) A critical growth action once you have your virality base is “conversion rate optimization”.
(25:45) The most effective sign-up practived today.
(30:31) Hubspot for Startups - Learn more and get extra benefits for being a TWiST listener now at https://www.hubspot.com/startups. Check out their report “How AI is Redefining Startup GTM Strategy” here: https://bit.ly/hubspot-ai-report
(31:52) The balance of adding friction in the user sign-up process.
(33:57) Elliot dives deeper into his best growth hacks and the most frustrating moments while at InstaCart, Wealthfront, and LinkedIn.
(39:51) Elliot discusses his new company, Anomalo, and its mission to solve data quality issues.
*
Check out Anomalo: https://www.anomalo.com/
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Elliott:
X: https://twitter.com/eshmu
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eshmu/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:59) NetSuite. Now through April 15th, NetSuite is offering a one-of-a-kind flexible financing program. Head to http://www.NetSuite.com/twist
(20:36) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(30:31) Hubspot for Startups - Learn more and get extra benefits for being a TWiST listener now at https://www.hubspot.com/startups. Check out their report “How AI is Redefining Startup GTM Strategy” here: https://bit.ly/hubspot-ai-report
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
Gusto is easy online payroll, benefits, and HR built for modern small businesses. Get three months free when you run your first payroll at Gusto.com/twist.
Northwest Registered Agent. When starting your business, it's important to use a service that will actually help you. Northwest Registered Agent is that service. They'll form your company fast, give you the documents you need to open a business bank account, and even provide you with mail scanning and a business address to keep your personal privacy intact. Visit http://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist to get a 60% discount on your next LLC.
*
Todays show:
Brannin McBee joins Jason to discuss CoreWeave’s transition from cryptocurrency to AI (3:36), the energy dynamics of GPUs (14:04), innovations in data center cooling (19:28), and the future challenges and impacts of AI infrastructure on industries like search, advertising, and e-commerce (45:36).
*
Timestamps:
(00:00) CoreWeave’s Brannin McBee joins Jason
(3:36) The founding story of CoreWeave and the transition from the cryptocurrency market to AI
(12:49) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
(14:04) Energy reliance of GPUs, the future of data centers, and the cost and efficiency of GPU cloud infrastructure
(19:28) Direct-to-chip liquid cooling and other cooling solutions for GPUs
(24:52) Demand trends for GPU capacity and the growth of inference linked to user growth
(29:06) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://gusto.com/twist
(30:28) LPUs Vs. GPUs
(34:13) Dominance of Nvidia in training models, implications of open source chips and chip architecture
(39:01) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at http://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(40:00) Challenges in training large language models and the use of infrastructure as a weapon by big tech
(45:36) The potential impact of AI on search engines, advertising sector, and ecommerce
(52:46) Timeline for supply-demand balance in AI infrastructure and the operational feat of running multiple data centers
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Brannin:
X: https://twitter.com/branninmcbee
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/branninmcbee
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(12:49) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
(29:06) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://gusto.com/twist
(39:01) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at http://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at http://www.vanta.com/twist
Eight Sleep. Good sleep is the ultimate game changer. Now you can add the Pod Cover to any mattress! Go to https://www.eightsleep.com/twist to check out the Pod Cover and get $200 off the pod plus free shipping!
The Equinix Startup program offers a hybrid infrastructure solution for startups, including up to $100K in credits and personalized consultations and guidance from the Equinix team. Go to https://equinixstartups.com to apply today.
*
Todays show:
Sunny Madra joins Jason to discuss the potential of new search engines (16:44), the future of SEO(37:35), and demo innovative AI products (48:37).
*
Timestamps:
(00:00) Sunny Madra joins Jason
(2:42) Deep Dive into the cost of running queries and the decrease in the price of hardware storage
(11:41) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(12:33) The LMSYS Chatbot Arena Leaderboard
(16:44) Modern Answer Engines: You.com and Perplexity
(28:53) Eight Sleep - Go to https://www.eightsleep.com/twist $200 off the Pod plus free shipping
(30:22) Potential and challenges of new search engines
(36:30) Equinix - Join the Equinix Startup Program for up to $100K in credits and much more at https://deploy.equinix.com/startups
(37:35) Future of SEO and data sources in the context of new search engines
(48:37) Sunny demos Infinity AI
(54:35) Sunny and Jason discuss Hume AI’s Empathic Voice Interface
*
Check out:
https://www.perplexity.ai
https://you.com
https://infinity.ai
https://www.hume.ai
https://groq.com
https://huggingface.co/spaces/lmsys/chatbot-arena-leaderboard
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Sunny:
X: https://twitter.com/sundeep
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sundeepm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(11:41) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(28:53) Eight Sleep - Go to https://eightsleep.com/twist for $200 off the Pod plus free shipping
(36:30) Equinix - Join the Equinix Startup Program for up to $100K in credits and much more at https://deploy.equinix.com/startups
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Mantle. The AI-powered equity management platform designed for modern founders and operators. Get your first 12 months free at https://withmantle.com/TWIST
Hubspot for Podcast Networks. Looking to up your marketing game?
Check out the podcast: Marketing Against the Grain
Hosted by: Hubspot CMO Kipp Bodnar and Zapier CMO Kieran Flannigan
They bring you the latest in marketing trends, growth tactics and innovation.
Available on all your favorite podcast apps.
Curotec. Are you one of those companies that knows you need to be using AI, but you're not even sure where to start? Well then you need Curotec. They are AI experts, and they're offering TWiST listeners an AI Strategy Roadmap tailored to your business for $5000. That's 50% off the normal cost just for telling them we sent you. Check out http://www.curotec.com/twist and get $5000 off!
*
Todays show:
David Weisburd hosts Dave McClure, Jordan Stein, and Jason Calacanis to discuss the evolution of fund spaces. The discuss investing in the YC ecosystem (00:28), the role of secondary funds today (40:26), and the importance of betting on outliers (1:00:49).
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) David Weisburd intros Dave McClure, Jordan Stein, and Jason Calacanis
(00:28) Reddit's IPO adds to YC's track record of successful public listings
(10:21) Mantle - Get your first 12 months free at https://withmantle.com/TWIST
(11:39) Strategy of investing in YC ecosystem and the importance of entry point evaluation
(18:40) YC's demo day and opportunities for other accelerators
(26:12) Hubspot - Marketing Against the Grain https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMNgyVFsk4g https://lnk.to/h3vKHnTW
(27:18) YC's demo day and opportunities for other accelerators cont.
(32:24) Carta’s report on the rise of capital call requests
(39:15) Curotec - Check out http://www.curotec.com/twist and get $5000 off
(40:26) The role of secondary funds in the current macroeconomic conditions and the potential for more company shutdowns
(1:00:49) Betting on outliers and the decision-making process for doubling down
(1:14:16) Lightning round: Top 3 investments from each guest
(1:25:20) Discussing the upcoming https://www.liquiditypod.com/summit
*
Check out:
https://mercury.com
https://www.gropyus.com
https://recargapay.com.br
https://www.ridemotive.com
https://testrigor.com
https://www.krepling.com
*
Follow Dave:
X: https://twitter.com/davemcclure
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davemcclure
Check out: https://practicalvc.com
*
Follow Jordan:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-stein17
Check out: https://cressetcapital.com
*
Follow David:
X: https://twitter.com/DWeisburd
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dweisburd
Check out: https://10xcapital.com
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:21) Mantle - Get your first 12 months free at https://withmantle.com/TWIST(26:12) Hubspot - Marketing Against the Grain https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMNgyVFsk4g https://lnk.to/h3vKHnTW(39:15) Curotec - Check out http://www.curotec.com/twist and get $5000 off
*
Check out the Launch Accelerator: https://launchaccelerator.co
*
Check out Founder University: https://www.founder.university
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
LinkedIn Jobs. A business is only as strong as its people, and every hire matters. Go to LinkedIn.com/TWIST to post your first job for free. Terms and conditions apply.
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at http://www.vanta.com/twist
Hubspot for Startups. Join thousands of companies that are growing better with HubSpot for Startups. Learn more and get extra benefits for being a TWiST listener now at https://www.hubspot.com/startups
*
Todays show:
Hume AI’s Alan Cowen joins Jason to demo Hume AI’s Empathic Voice Interface (6:08), Measurement API (16:20), and discuss the future implications of this tech, both positive and negative (44:14).
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Hume AI’s Alan Cowen joins Jason
(3:01) Hume AI and the role of AI in understanding human emotions
(6:08) Hume AI’s Empathic Voice Interface (EVI) and its responsiveness to human emotions
(8:27) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(9:55) The components in speech that Hume AI studies and its application across different cultures
(16:20) Hume AI’s Measurement API and its design for real-time emotion and expression analysis
(21:16) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(22:07) What AI can reveal about a person based on their expressions
(24:12) The impact on customer service and security sectors
(27:24) Hume AI’s comedy bot and emotional detection capabilities
(36:08) Hubspot for Startups - Learn more and get extra benefits for being a TWiST listener now at https://www.hubspot.com/startups. Also, be sure to visit https://bit.ly/hubspot-ai-report
(37:01) Hume AI’s comedy bot / roast functionality
(44:11) The future implications, both positive and negative, of emotionally intelligent AI on society
.*
Check out Hume AI: https://www.hume.ai
*
Follow Alan:
X: https://twitter.com/alancowen
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-cowen
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(8:27) LinkedIn Jobs - Go to https://linkedIn.com/angel and post your first job for free.
(21:16) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(36:08) Hubspot for Startups - ****Learn more and get extra benefits for being a TWiST listener now at https://www.hubspot.com/startups. Also, be sure to visit https://bit.ly/hubspot-ai-report
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to https://www.Squarespace.com/twist for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
Eppo. Experimentation is how generation-defining companies win. Accelerate your experimentation velocity with Eppo. Visit http://www.geteppo.com/twist
*
Todays show:
Jason kicks off Ask Jason live! Six live guests ask questions on key topics, including prioritizing multiple founders (13:28), advice around moat for a startup (52:42), and whether not focusing on AI in a pitch will affect investment chances (1:02:38).
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason kicks off another Ask Jason with 6 live guests!
(1:13) Sean asks about investment firms changing how they invest early on.
(11:42) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/twist
(13:28) Pierson of jellypod asks about prioritizing multiple founders for investments or accelerators
(22:54) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
(24:47) Ann asks if they should raise venture capital to grow faster even though it means giving up some company ownership.
(32:01) Eppo. Accelerate your experimentation velocity with Eppo. Visit http://www.geteppo.com/twist
(39:56) Francis asks how to strike a balance between skepticism and enthusiasm when evaluating a company for investment, given that it's impossible to invest in every company.
(52:42) Hosum asks if explaining their startup's moat as current execution and future benefits after reaching product-market fit is enough to convince investors.
(1:02:38) Thom asks if not highlighting AI in our funding pitch will hurt our chances of getting investment.
*
Send us your questions for the next episode of Ask Jason LIVE! http://www.thisweekinstartups.com/askjason
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(11:42) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/twist
(22:54) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
(32:01) Eppo. Accelerate your experimentation velocity with Eppo. Visit http://www.geteppo.com/twist
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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Wistia is THE all-in-one video platform for business, with tools that help you create, manage, and measure the impact of your videos.
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*
Todays show:
Sunny joins Jason to dive into AI news and demos, including a new report about AI and Enterprises (12:28), Gatekeep AI (23:34), Deepgram API Playground (39:55), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Sunny joins Jason.
(4:33) What the resignation of the CEO of Stability AI signifies.(11:01) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(12:28) Exploring the a16z report about AI and Enterprises.
(20:42) Coda - Get a $1,000 startup credit at https://coda.io/twist
(23:34) Sunny demoes Gatekeep AI and get surprising results when Jason asks it to explain a “keystone”.
(31:27) Wistia - Try Wistia for free at wistia.com/startups.
(39:55) Sunny demoes Deepgram API Playground with a fun clip from a young Jason asking Steve Jobs a question.
(50:19 ) Sunny demoes the Claude model Haiku from Anthropic with an image from a famous Michael Jordan dunk.
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
LINKS:
Report: 16 Changes to the Way Enterprises Are Building and Buying Generative AI: https://a16z.com/generative-ai-enterprise-2024/
Check out Gatekeep AI: https://app.gatekeep.ai/
Check out Deepgram API Playground: https://playground.deepgram.com/
Check out Antrhopic’s Claude Haiku: https://console.anthropic.com/workbench/01fd2f39-ed95-40e1-9d11-c92f1a5ef26f
Claude 3 Haiku announcement: https://www.anthropic.com/news/claude-3-haikuplayground:
Article about Stability AI CEO resigning: https://techcrunch.com/2024/03/22/stability-ai-ceo-resigns-because-youre-not-going-to-beat-centralized-ai-with-more-centralized-ai/
*
Follow Sunny:
X: https://twitter.com/sundeep
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sundeepm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:(11:01) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(20:42) Coda - Get a $1,000 startup credit at https://coda.io/twist
(31:27) Wistia - Try Wistia for free at wistia.com/startups.
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at http://www.vanta.com/twist
DevSquad. Most dev agencies only offer developers. Why? Because product management is hard. Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist.
Gelt. It’s time to take control over your taxes. Discover how Gelt can help you to manage and optimize both your personal and business taxes. Visit joingelt.com/twist now.
*
Todays show:
David Weisburd hosts Mamoon Hamid, Thomas Scriven, and Jason Calacanis to discuss India’s startup ecosystem (2:36), Carta’s 2018 startup class data (25:45), IPOs in the tech industry (41:18), and much more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) David Weisburd intros Mamoon Hamid, Thomas Scriven, and Jason Calacanis
(2:36) India’s startup ecosystem
(8:16) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(9:08) Traction and support for Indian startups
(17:29) Sovereign wealth funds and their place in the ecosystem today
(24:15) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist
(25:45) Deep dive into Carta’s 2018 startup class data, loss ratios, and investment strategies
(40:04) Gelt. It’s time to take control over your taxes. Visit https://joingelt.com/twist now.
(41:18) The future of M&A and IPOs in the tech industry
(49:51) The rise of the secondary market
(1:07:09) Rapid-fire segment on recent investments
*
Mentioned on the show:
https://www.harvey.ai
https://codeium.com
https://www.ambiencehealthcare.com
https://www.glean.com
https://tolt.io
https://www.argyle.build
https://www.podengine.ai
*
Follow Mamoon:
X: https://twitter.com/mamoonha
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mamoonha
Check out: https://www.kleinerperkins.com/
*
Follow Thomas:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-scriven-435281/
*
Follow David:
X: https://twitter.com/DWeisburd
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dweisburd
Check out: https://10xcapital.com
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(8:16) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(24:15) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist
(40:04) Gelt. It’s time to take control over your taxes. Visit https://joingelt.com/twist now.
*
Check out the Launch Accelerator: https://launchaccelerator.co
*
Check out Founder University: https://www.founder.university
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Eight Sleep. Good sleep is the ultimate game changer. Now you can add the Pod Cover to any mattress! Go to http://www.eightsleep.com/twist to check out the Pod Cover and get $200 off the pod plus free shipping!
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
Gelt. It’s time to take control over your taxes. Discover how Gelt can help you to manage and optimize both your personal and business taxes. Visit http://www.joingelt.com/twist now.
*
Todays show:
Sunny joins Jason to dive into AI news and demos, including Microsoft absorbing Inflection AI (1:29), the new song creation model from Suno (13:28), impressive reflection skills from Deepseek VL (45:57), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) - Sunny joins Jason(1:29) Big news as Microsoft eliminates competitor Inflection AI by gutting their team.(6:23) Is this a new way to not have regulatory scrutiny like in M&A?(8:14) Apple has been busy acquiring AI companies!(9:14) Eight Sleep - Go to https://www.eightsleep.com/twist for $200 off the Pod plus free shipping(13:28) Sunny demos the new model from Suno v3.(15:58) Surprising punk song from Suno with interesting lyrics.(17:52) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/twist(19:24) Implications of Suno bringing everyone access to produce their own songs.(25:24) Sunny demos Coral by Cohere.(28:53) Gelt - It’s time to take control over your taxes. Visit http://www.joingelt.com/twist now.(30:08) Diving deeper into fair use regarding the data and content scraped from the internet.(45:57) Sunny demos Deepseek VL.
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
LINKS:
Check out Suno v3: https://app.suno.ai/create/
Check out Coral by Cohere: https://dashboard.cohere.com/playground/chat
Check out Deepseek VL: https://huggingface.co/spaces/deepseek-ai/DeepSeek-VL-7B
9to5Mac article about Apple buying AI Startups: https://9to5mac.com/2024/02/08/apple-bought-ai-startups/
Tech Crunch Article about Microsoft and Inflection: https://techcrunch.com/2024/03/19/after-raising-1-3b-inflection-got-eaten-alive-by-its-biggest-investor-microsoft/?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAFUxPOXc4AHnjptN6dxkwFgpZ0kvPL_gTJ1uMicNRJwwtbQbuS1P0AI0MbDZzGawLNTArPSTT6VrWbByv-AyGXGWF_mkTdLG6eBSgiTrJPpqyBvY1y-GZoAE4xzQdq9v8ciP0VfQpKcSr-acjKYZEdwlc0XZV2lP6CeOb9I_QqXl
Rolling Stone Article about Suno: https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-features/suno-ai-chatgpt-for-music-1234982307/
*
Follow Sunny:
X: https://twitter.com/sundeep
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sundeepm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:14) Eight Sleep - Go to https://www.eightsleep.com/twist for $200 off the Pod plus free shipping(17:52) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/twist(28:53) Gelt - It’s time to take control over your taxes. Visit http://www.joingelt.com/twist now.
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Miro. Working remotely doesn’t mean you need to feel disconnected from your team. Miro is an online whiteboard that brings teams together - anytime, anywhere. Go to https://miro.com/startups to sign up for a FREE account with unlimited team members.
Hubspot YouTube Network. Whether you're a marketer, a sales rep, or an entrepreneur HubSpot has you covered with its tutorials and AI-powered tools. It’s all guaranteed to make your workday easier. Check out HubSpot’s AI Content Writer and start using HubSpot’s tools for FREE. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmJwJF6ppCo https://clickhubspot.com/zu8
Gelt. It’s time to take control over your taxes. Discover how Gelt can help you to manage and optimize both your personal and business taxes. Visit http://joingelt.com/twist now
*
Todays show:
Screendoor’s Jamie Rhode joins Jason to discuss the evolution of early-stage fund managers (3:00), effective portfolio construction (11:18), qualities of high-performing GPs (38:37), and much more!
*
Timestamps:
(00:00) Screendoor’s Jamie Rhode joins Jason
(3:00) Early-stage fund managers today, spray and pray vs. concentrated bets, and importance of GP market fit
(10:11) Miro - Sign up for a free account at https://miro.com/startups
(11:18) Effective portfolio construction, investing in startups that are creating new sectors, and finding the right fund managers
(17:28) Why seed stage investing attracts fewer GPs than series A or B
(23:08) Hubspot - Sign up for HubSpot's FREE CRM and get access to the AI Content Writer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmJwJF6ppCo https://clickhubspot.com/zu8
(24:28) Quantity of GPs to invest in and Screendoor’s approach to the DEI landscape
(32:22) Gelt - It’s time to take control over your taxes. Visit http://joingelt.com/twist now.
(33:35) Carry, Fees, and the percentage of a fund that Screendoor targets
(38:37) Qualities of high-performing GPs
*
Check out Screendoor: https://www.screendoor.co
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Jamie:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerrcfa/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:11) Miro - Sign up for a free account at https://miro.com/startups
(23:08) Hubspot - Sign up for HubSpot's FREE CRM and get access to the AI Content Writer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmJwJF6ppCo https://clickhubspot.com/zu8
(32:22) Gelt - It’s time to take control over your taxes. Visit http://joingelt.com/twist now.
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers, get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
Gelt. It’s time to take control over your taxes. Discover how Gelt can help you to manage and optimize both your personal and business taxes. Visit joingelt.com/twist now.
*
Todays show:
Glean’s Arvind Jain joins Jason to discuss how his startup is building the future of AI-Powered enterprise search (2:35). The two also discuss Google Gemini (42:45), Open-Source vs Closed models (45:17), and much more!
*
Timestamps:
(00:00) Glean’s Arvind Jain joins Jason
(2:35) Glean’s beachhead market and primary focus
(5:13) Glean’s approach to data confidentiality
(11:57) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
(13:13) Competition against native tools and building language models in SaaS companies
(17:00) Glean’s approach to permissions
(24:20) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(25:23) Compliance and the "CEO God Mode" feature
(29:28) Potential of productivity software, and people analytics in tech businesses
(38:50) Gelt - It’s time to take control over your taxes. https://joingelt.com/twist now
(40:04) Impact of AI on business models
(42:45) Arvind’s thoughts on Google Gemini
(45:17) Open source vs closed models in AI development and the progress of OpenAI
(47:49) AGI and the limitations and potential of AI as an assistant
*
Check out:
https://cybernews.com/security/chatgpt-samsung-leak-explained-lessons/#google_vignette
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Arvind:
X: https://twitter.com/jainarvind
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arvind-jain-5935161
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(11:57) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
(24:20) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(38:50) Gelt - It’s time to take control over your taxes. Visit joingelt.com/twist now
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
LinkedIn Ads. To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
Gusto is easy online payroll, benefits, and HR built for modern small businesses. Get three months free when you run your first payroll at Gusto.com/twist.
Attio - A radically new CRM for the next era of companies. Head to attio.com/twist to get 15% off for your first year.
*
Todays show:
Sunny joins Jason to dive into AI news, including the CTO from Open AI talking about their training data for Sora (5:11), the FIgure AI robot (12:26), Devin, the first AI software engineer (38:17), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Sunny joins Jason for a fun AI day!
(2:08) Elon and open source Grok vs “Closed” AI.
(5:11) The CTO from Open AI talking about their training data for Sora.
(9:28) Exploring the fascinating AI robot from Figure.
(10:57) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(12:26) Comparing the FIgure AI robot and what we have seen from Boston Dynamics and why this is impressive.
(19:47) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://www.gusto.com/twist
(21:10) Thinking about how humans learn and applying that to AI.
(28:28) The idea that robots may one day be 1:1 with humans.
(30:50) Attio - Head to http://www.attio.com/twist to get 15% off for your first year.
(32:01) New bet alert! And it’s a major one. Sunny and JCal bet on how soon we will all have access to AI robots in our homes!
(38:17) Introducing Devin, the first AI software engineer!
(40:24) The “maestro” concept when working with AI.
(47:21) Hot news: Apple in talks to let Google Gemini power iPhone AI Features.
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
LINKS:
Cognition’s Devin: https://www.cognition-labs.com/introducing-devin
Figure AI Robot: https://www.figure.ai/
*
Follow Sunny:
X: https://twitter.com/sundeep
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sundeepm
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:57) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(19:47) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://gusto.com/twist
(30:50) Attio - Head to attio.com/twist to get 15% off for your first year.
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
LinkedIn Ads. To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to http://linkedin.com/angelpod
Mantle. The AI-powered equity management platform designed for modern founders and operators. Get your first 12 months free at https://withmantle.com/TWIST
DevSquad. Most dev agencies only offer developers. Why? Because product management is hard. Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist.
*
Todays show:
Jason Calacanis welcomes Churchill Asset Management’s Raja Doddala to the show to discuss startups and the VC market in 2024. They dive into the competitiveness in pre-seed, seed, and series A (10:40),
portfolio construction (30:24), the future of the vc industry (50:59), and much more!
*
Timestamps:
(00:00) Jason welcomes Churchill Asset Management’s Raja Doddala to the show
(1:52) Trends in pre-seed and seed deal values
(9:19) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://linkedin.com/angelpod
(10:40) Competitiveness and predictability in pre-seed, seed, and series A
(21:28) Mantle - Get your first 12 months free at https://withmantle.com/TWIST
(22:46) Trends in exit values
(29:19) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist
(30:24) Exploring portfolio architecture and the difference between mega funds and smaller funds
(50:59) Prospects in the vc over the next few years and the rise of the next generation
(59:26) The role of secondary sales in venture capital and importance of liquidity for VC funds
*
Check out:
Churchill Asset Management - https://www.churchillam.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Raja
X: https://twitter.com/rdoddala
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajadoddala
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:19) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://linkedin.com/angelpod
(21:28) Mantle - Get your first 12 months free at https://withmantle.com/TWIST
(29:19) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at http://www.vanta.com/twist
Uizard. Struggling to transform innovative ideas into concrete product designs? Uizard can help you turn your visions into polished UI designs in a fraction of the time, while enhancing collaboration across your entire team. Get 25% off Uizard Pro for an entire year at uizard.io/twist
Experimentation is how generation-defining companies win. Accelerate your experimentation velocity with Eppo. Visit geteppo.com/twist
*
Todays show:
Jason welcomes Melengo's Justin Kwong to the show to discuss how his company simplifies the process of developing, financing, and scaling apparel lines for brands and creators. The two dive into Melengo’s business model, initial customers, fundraising, and much more (1:49). Then, Jason breaks down his A.D.D. framework, designed to enhance efficiency and focus within companies (36:50)!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(1:48) Justin Kwong from Melengo joins Jason
(4:38) Justin demos Melengo and its use cases
(9:45) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(10:37) Melengo’s business model, initial customers, and fundraising
(22:19) Uizard - Get 25% off Uizard Pro for an entire year at http://uizard.io/twist
(23:26) Building Melengo's team and the next steps for finding product-market-fit
(36:50) Eppo. Accelerate your experimentation velocity with Eppo. Visit geteppo.com/twist
(37:50) Jason’s A.D.D. framework (Automate, Deprecate, Delegate)
*
Check out:
Melengo - https://www.melengo.com
A.D.D. Framework - https://calacanis.substack.com/p/startup-productivity-in-the-age-of
LAUNCH Accelerator - https://launchaccelerator.co
Founder University - https://www.founder.university
The Syndicate - https://thesyndicate.com
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Justin:
X: https://twitter.com/jkwong
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinckwong
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:45) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(22:19) Uizard - Get 25% off Uizard Pro for an entire year at http://uizard.io/twist
(36:50) Eppo. Accelerate your experimentation velocity with Eppo. Visit geteppo.com/twist
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Lemon.io. Need to speed up your product development without draining your budget? Hire vetted engineers from Europe at lemon.io. Go to Lemon.io/twist to get 15% off for the first 4 weeks!
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
Looking to up your marketing game? Check out the podcast: Marketing Against the Grain. Hosted by: Hubspot CMO Kipp Bodnar and Zapier CMO Kieran Flannigan. They bring you the latest in marketing trends, growth tactics and innovation. Available on all your favorite podcast apps. https://lnk.to/h3vKHnTW
*
Todays show:
Sunny demos the lightning speed of Groq (4:10), the new model Opus from Claude 3 (5:38), Mistral (35:26), EMO by Ali Baba (45:21), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Sunny joins Jason for this week’s AI demos!
(1:19) Details on Definitive Intelligence being acquired by Groq.
(4:10) Sunny demos the lightning speed of Groq.
(5:38) Sunny demos the new model Opus from Claude 3 and it’s prompt library.
(8:52) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(10:12) Claude helps interpret Ikea instructions.
(19:18) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
(20:35) Looking at the use of “guardrails” in LLMs.
(28:59) Marketing Against the Grain https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KIE8hmH0fLM*
https://lnk.to/h3vKHnTW
(35:26) Sunny demos Mistral
(38:53) Sunny demos Groq Playground and creates a framework for a study plan.
(45:21) Sunny demos EMO by Ali Baba.
*
LINKS:
Anthropic Claude 3: https://console.anthropic.com/
Prompt Library: https://docs.anthropic.com/claude/prompt-library
Mistral: https://chat.mistral.ai/
Groq Playground: groq.com/console.groq.com
EMO by Ali Baba: https://humanaigc.github.io/emote-portrait-alive/
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Sunny:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/sundeep
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sundeepm/
*
Follow Jason:X: https://twitter.com/JasonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(8:52) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(19:18) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
(28:59) Marketing Against the Grain https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KIE8hmH0fLM*
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
LinkedIn Jobs. A business is only as strong as its people, and every hire matters. Go to LinkedIn.com/TWIST to post your first job for free. Terms and conditions apply.
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
Northwest Registered Agent. When starting your business, it's important to use a service that will actually help you. Northwest Registered Agent is that service. They'll form your company fast, give you the documents you need to open a business bank account, and even provide you with mail scanning and a business address to keep your personal privacy intact. Visit http://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist to get a 60% discount on your next LLC.
*
Todays show:
Josh Mohrer, the solo founder building Wave App joins Jason. The two dive into Josh’s time during the early Uber NY days (1:17), solo entrepreneurship in tech (19:59), and more! Josh then showcases the Wave App in action (27:10) and delves into its intricate development journey (32:26).
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Josh Mohrer joins Jason
(1:17) Early Uber NY days, Travis Kalanick's leadership, and Uber NY's regulatory challenges
(12:42) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(19:59) Solo entrepreneurship in tech, enabled by AI advancements
(26:15) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/twist
(27:10) Josh demos Wave App and delves into its development journey
(40:45) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at http://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(41:39) Future of work, AI in daily life, and generational tech shifts
*
Check out: https://waveapp.ai
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Josh:
X: https://twitter.com/joshmohrer
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshmohrer
*
Follow Jason:X: https://twitter.com/JasonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(12:42) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(26:15) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/twist
(40:45) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at http://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Wistia. All-in-one video platform for business, with tools that help you create, manage, and measure the impact of your videos. Try Wistia for free at http://www.wistia.com/startups
CLA. Innovation takes balance. CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors can help you get from startup to where you want to end up. Get started now at http://www.CLAconnect.com/tech
Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers, get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://www.Lemon.io/twist
*
Todays show:
Jason is joined by sweetgreens’ Jonathan Neman to discuss: the x-factor that makes a strong manager (7:36).deciding between the franchise model vs owned and operated (16:02), robotics in the restaurant industry (24:23), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jonathan joins Jason.
(2:30) The scale and innovation of sweetgreen today
(7:36) The x-factor that makes a strong manager
(10:05) Wistia - Try Wistia for free at http://www.wistia.com/startups
(12:31) The “Sweetlife” and the importance of “polishing forks”
(16:02) Navigating the decision between the franchise model vs owned and operated
(18:30) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech
(24:23) Robotics in the restaurant industry
(29:28) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(30:33) The details and benefits of the machines Sweetgreen has brought into its restaurants.
(37:15) Restaurant difficulties with inflation, COVID and “sticker shock”
(38:46) Delivery in the business today pre and post-pandemic
(45:10) How Australia fits into the origin of sweetgreen
(48:01) The best way to build a brand
(52:28) The seed oil conversation
(45:53) sweetgreen is positioned towards tailored menus.
(1:01:12) The challenging topic of food options and availability across different socioeconomic groups.
(1:05:58) The definition of healthy food
*
LINKS:
Check out sweetgreen: https://www.sweetgreen.com/
Watch The Founder (2-16): https://www.amazon.com/Founder-Michael-Keaton/dp/B01MY7FSMF
Watch our Business Breakdown of the film The Founder: https://youtu.be/kYqzEEFU_nw
Watch The Bear: https://tv.apple.com/ca/show/the-bear/umc.cmc.javg04xbn3eonbgfvnaqmodk
Check out Unreasonable Hospitality: https://www.unreasonablehospitality.com/
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Jonathan:
X: https://twitter.com/JonnyNemo
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-neman-9a28aa8/
*
Follow Jason:X: https://twitter.com/JasonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:05) Wistia - Try Wistia for free at http://www.wistia.com/startups
(18:30) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech
(29:28) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Mantle. The AI-powered equity management platform designed for modern founders and operators. Get your first 12 months free at https://withmantle.com/TWIST
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at http://www.vanta.com/twist
MEV. Tired of the dev shop rollercoaster? Mev is your reliable technical partner, offering a well-established software development process designed to consistently deliver unparalleled value to their clients. Get $30,000 off your first three months at http://mev.com/twist!
*
Todays show:
Lon Harris joins Jason Calacanis to discuss concepts in business, drawing parallels from Moneyball. The two dive into the significance of embracing paradigm shifts (15:38),first-principle thinking (27:16), Billy’s 'Adapt or Die' philosophy (48:54), and the turning point for the A's (1:11:20).
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Lon Harris joins Jason
(7:35) Mantle - Get your first 12 months free at https://withmantle.com/TWIST
(8:53) Moneyball cast breakdown
(15:38) Paradigm shifts in Moneyball: Comparing the Oakland A's situation to startups vs. incumbents
(21:19) Paradigm shifts in Moneyball: Making data-driven decisions
(26:24) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(27:16) The important concept of "First-Principle Thinking”
(35:03) MEV - Get $30,000 off your first three months at http://mev.com/twist
(36:34) Globalization's impact on startup opportunities and the importance of a unified team vision
(48:54) Billy's philosophy: Adapt or Die!
(59:20) The "burn the boats" moment and the importance of commitment in business
(1:11:20) The turning point for the A's and their historic winning streak
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Lon:
X: https://twitter.com/Lons
*
Thank you to our partners:
(7:35) Mantle - Get your first 12 months free at https://withmantle.com/TWIST
(26:24) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(35:03) MEV - Get $30,000 off your first three months at http://mev.com/twist
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
NetSuite. Once your business gets to a certain size the cracks start to emerge. Things you used to do in a day take a week. You deserve a customized solution - and that's NetSuite. Learn more when you download NetSuite’s popular KPI Checklist - absolutely free, at http://www.NetSuite.com/twist
Northwest Registered Agent. When starting your business, it's important to use a service that will actually help you. Northwest Registered Agent is that service. They'll form your company fast, give you the documents you need to open a business bank account, and even provide you with mail scanning and a business address to keep your personal privacy intact. Visit - https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist to get a 60% discount on your next LLC.
Imagine AI LIVE is an AI conference where you'll learn how to apply AI in YOUR business directly from the people who build and use these tools. It's taking place March 27th and 28th in Las Vegas, and TWiST listeners can get 20% off tickets at http://www.imagineai.live/twist
*
Todays show:
Jason joins Palantir's Shyam Sankar to discuss how the US has avoided another terrorist attack since 9/11 (7:59), the role of AI and robotics in the battlefield (22:34), the future of defense tech (53:48), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason joins Shyam Sankar of Palantir.(3:04) - Silcon valley’s shift in perception around defense tech and Palantir.(5:09) - Palentir being born out of 9/11 and the realization of the countries vulnerabilities.(7:59) How the US has managed to avoid another terrorist attack and what role Palantir's products played.(9:33) NetSuite - Download your free KPI Checklist at http://www.NetSuite.com/twist(10:48) One major failure regarding 9/11 attack.(11:55) The Gotham Platform: Palantir's first product and how it borrowed from PayPal.(18:12) The most valuable role software could play in defense tech.(18:57) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at - https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist(19:52) How defense tech data collection has changed over the years.(22:34) The role of AI and robotics play in the battlefield.(29:22) Imagine AI LIVE - Get 20% off tickets at http://www.imagineai.live/twist(30:38) The autopilot approach of LLMs at Palantir and the analogy of self-driving cars.(33:28) Palantir's huge early wins with AI integration.(38:01) The defense potential of LLMs and real time interpretation in the field.(39:51) The importance of RF in the modern battlefield.(45:32) Discussing Putin’s serious threat.(48:54) How the defense industrial base was managed and consolidated after WWII(53:48) The future of defense tech, the speed of innovation and enemy adaptation.
*
Check out Palantir Technologies: https://www.palantir.com/
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Shyam:
X: https://twitter.com/ssankar
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shyamsankar/
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:33) NetSuite - Download your free KPI Checklist at http://www.NetSuite.com/twist
(18:57) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at - https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(29:22) Imagine AI LIVE - Get 20% off tickets at http://www.imagineai.live/twist
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
Coda. A new doc that brings words, tables and teams together. All your valuable data, plans, objectives, and strategies in one place. Go to https://coda.io/twist to get a $1,000 credit!
*
Todays show:
David Weisburd hosts Erik, Guy, and Jason Calacanis to discuss Sequoia & Union Square Ventures' returns (1:15), AI's impact on startups and labor (17:35), US startups' risk tolerance (38:10), and much more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) David Weisburd intros Erik Torenberg, Guy Perelmuter, and Jason Calacanis
(1:15) VC returns have been leaked, including returns from Sequoia Capital and Union Square Ventures
(11:33) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
(17:35) Bearish signs for the startup employment market
(25:17) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/twist
(26:12) The emergence of the first one-person unicorn
(36:46) Coda - Get a $1,000 startup credit at https://coda.io/twist
(38:10) Founders & investors are now returning to San Francisco
(47:35) Rapid-fire segment on recent investments
*
Mentioned on the show:
https://www.wsj.com/tech/san-francisco-ai-boom-silicon-valley-307816b2
https://jam.dev
https://www.perplexity.ai
https://www.antaresindustries.com
https://mesodyne.com
https://limacharlie.io
https://www.cloudnc.com
https://codemate.ai
https://www.golfgolf.tech
https://www.terrakaffe.com
*
Follow Erik:
X: https://twitter.com/eriktorenberg
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eriktorenberg/
Check out: https://www.turpentine.co/
*
Follow Guy:
X: https://twitter.com/guyperelmuter
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guyperelmuter
Check out: https://www.gridscapital.com/
*
Follow David:
X: https://twitter.com/DWeisburd
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dweisburd
Check out: https://10xcapital.com
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Check out the Launch Accelerator: https://launchaccelerator.co
*
Check out Founder University: https://www.founder.university
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Gusto is easy online payroll, benefits, and HR built for modern small businesses. Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://www.gusto.com/twist
Northwest Registered Agent. When starting your business, it's important to use a service that will actually help you. Northwest Registered Agent is that service. They'll form your company fast, give you the documents you need to open a business bank account, and even provide you with mail scanning and a business address to keep your personal privacy intact. Visit - https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist to get a 60% discount on your next LLC.
Uizard. Struggling to transform innovative ideas into concrete product designs? Uizard can help you turn your visions into polished UI designs in a fraction of the time, while enhancing collaboration across your entire team. Get 25% off Uizard Pro for an entire year at http://www.uizard.io/twist
*
Todays show:
Jason joins David Clark of VenCap to discuss what distinguishes longevity and success in VC (5:25), the importance of strategy and timing when selling (25:47), preparing with founders for when things may go south (48:43), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) David Clark joins Jason.
(2:41) Looking at the data behind VenCap’s approach to alpha vs beta, managers and their over 500 investments to date.
(5:25) What distinguishes longevity and success in VC.
(9:15) Analyzing the data from David's chart covering 12,000 companies and the power law.
(10:34) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://www.gusto.com/twist
(12:43) Portfolio strategy and finding that 1% of fund returners.
(18:59) The value of investing in a company over a longer period of time.
(21:23) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at - https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(22:17) The challenges VenCap faces when looking at seed managers.
(25:47) The importance of strategy and timing on selling.
(29:18 ) Uizard - Get 25% off Uizard Pro for an entire year at http://www.uizard.io/twist
(33:05) Managing successful GPs and having them ‘stay in the game’.
(41:49) The misunderstandings of the J-Curve.
(48:43) Preparing with founders for when things may go south.
(58:36) Founder Fridays message from Jason.
*
LINKS:
Check out VenCap: https://www.vencap.com/
Watch the Brian Singerman episode here: https://youtu.be/o5Z0-d5w18M
Watch the Michael Kim episode here: https://youtu.be/a2FL_FvwoUA
Check out Founder Fridays: http://thisweekinstartups.com/meetups
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow David:
X: https://twitter.com/daveclark85
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-clark-6678b6b/?originalSubdomain=uk
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:34) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://www.gusto.com/twist
(21:23) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at - https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(29:18 ) Uizard - Get 25% off Uizard Pro for an entire year at http://www.uizard.io/twist
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers, get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at http://www.vanta.com/twist
LinkedIn Ads. To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
*
Todays show:
Jason kicks off Ask Jason live! Six live guests ask questions on key topics like career paths in fintech (1:14), startup challenges (8:48), pivoting strategies (34:23), fundraising (46:54), and customer engagement strategies (52:30).
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason kicks off another Ask Jason!
(1:14) Tommy asks about getting a degree in fintech in order to join startups
(7:44) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(8:48) Sam asks about common mistakes for first time founders
(16:40) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(17:32) Clint asks about startups surviving the period before VC investments
(33:12) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(34:23) Daniel asks about startups pivoting in the wrong direction
(46:54) Greg asks about raising funds before product-market fit
(52:30) Oliver wants to know if it is better to go deep with a few customers or gain entry to multiple customers with a more lightweight solution
*
Apply to the LAUNCH Accelerator here: https://launchaccelerator.co/
Just getting started? Apply to Founder.University
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(7:44) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(16:40) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(33:12) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by:
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
Imagine AI LIVE is an AI conference where you'll learn how to apply AI in YOUR business directly from the people who build and use these tools. It's taking place March 27th and 28th in Las Vegas, and TWiST listeners can get 20% off tickets at http://imagineai.live/twist
Scalable Path. Want to speed up your product development without breaking the bank? Since 2010, Scalable Path has helped over 300 companies hire deeply vetted engineers in their time zone. Visit http://www.scalablepath.com/twist to get 20% off your first month.
Todays show:
Sunny Madra joins Jason to discuss how Google’s “woke AI” emergency came to be (1:17), Apple’s lowkey AI integrations (33:51), what OpenAI’s incredible Sora model means for Hollywood (39:39), and much more!
Viewers! How are you enjoying the demos? What grades do you give these AI companies? Tell us what we got wrong and right and what demos you’d like to see on the podcast. Let us know by mentioning us on X.com.
https://x.com/Sundeep
https://x.com/Jason
https://x.com/twistartups
See the full list of all AI demos from the show here: thisweekinstartups.com/AI
Timestamps:
(0:00) Sunny Madra joins Jason!
(1:17) What went wrong with Google’s AI: Model training, RLHF, or guardrails? Plus, how Google can look to Meta for a solution
(13:35) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
(15:00) More examples of bias in Google’s Gemini model
(20:19) Explorer.Globe.Engineer: an AI-powered research assistant
(27:45) Imagine AI LIVE - Get 20% off tickets at http://imagineai.live/twist
(29:01) Reka’s impressive multimodal functionality
(33:51) Apple starts slowly releasing AI-powered features in its most popular apps
(38:19) Scalable Path - Get 20% off your first month at http://www.scalablepath.com/twist
(39:39) Sora demos from OpenAI, and what this means for the film industry
Links:
Check out Explorer.Globe: https://explorer.globe.engineer
Check out Reka: https://reka.ai
Check out Sora: https://openai.com/sora
Follow SunnyX: https://twitter.com/sundeepCheck out Definitive: https://www.definitive.io
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Thank you to our partners:
(13:35) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
(27:45) Imagine AI LIVE - Get 20% off tickets at http://imagineai.live/twist
(38:19) Scalable Path - Get 20% off your first month at http://www.scalablepath.com/twist
Check out the Launch Accelerator: https://launchaccelerator.co
Check out Founder University: https://www.founder.university
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Northwest Registered Agent. When starting your business, it's important to use a service that will actually help you. Northwest Registered Agent is that service. They'll form your company fast, give you the documents you need to open a business bank account, and even provide you with mail scanning and a business address to keep your personal privacy intact. Visit - https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist to get a 60% discount on your next LLC.
DevSquad. Most dev agencies only offer developers. Why? Because product management is hard. Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist.
Miro. Working remotely doesn’t mean you need to feel disconnected from your team. Miro is an online whiteboard that brings teams together - anytime, anywhere. Go to https://miro.com/startups to sign up for a FREE account with unlimited team members.
*
Todays show:
David Weisburd hosts Bryan Rosenblatt, Michael Downing and Jason Calacanis to discuss Reddit’s IPO (1:19), Consumer vs. Enterprise AI (22:02), Sam Altman’s New Fund (38:18), and much more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) David Weisburd hosts Bryan Rosenblatt, Michael Downing and Jason Calacanis
(1:19) Discussion on Reddit’s IPO and potential as an advertising business
(9:28) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at - https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(10:23) Reddit’s IPO and potential as an advertising business cont.
(16:44) AI Integration in traditional businesses
(20:56) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist
(22:02) Consumer vs. enterprise AI
(37:09) Miro - Sign up for a free account at https://miro.com/startups
(38:18) Sam Altman’s venture capital fund and the future of the AI ecosystem
(1:05:06) Rapid fire segment on recent investments
*
Mentioned on the show:
https://www.wsj.com/tech/ai/generative-ai-business-implementation-ac995975?mod=tech_lead_pos4
https://www.axios.com/2024/02/15/sam-altman-openai-startup-fund
https://www.solace.health/
https://www.agentio.com/
https://www.recursiveventures.com
https://originalcapital.com
https://silentvc.com
https://www.getrecall.ai
https://www.micro1.ai
https://www.melengo.com
*
Follow Bryan
X: https://twitter.com/BRosenblatt4
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryanrosenblatt
Check out: https://www.craftventures.com
*
Follow Michael
X: https://twitter.com/michaeldowning
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeldowning
Check out: https://www.mdsv.vc
*
Follow David:
X: https://twitter.com/DWeisburd
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dweisburd
Check out: https://10xcapital.com
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:28) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at http://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(20:56) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist
(37:09) Miro - Sign up for a free account at https://miro.com/startups
*
Check out the Launch Accelerator: https://launchaccelerator.co
*
Check out Founder University: https://www.founder.university
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Gusto is easy online payroll, benefits, and HR built for modern small businesses. Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://www.gusto.com/twist
LinkedIn Jobs. A business is only as strong as its people, and every hire matters. Go to https://www.linkedin.com/twist to post your first job for free. Terms and conditions apply.
Northwest Registered Agent. When starting your business, it's important to use a service that will actually help you. Northwest Registered Agent is that service. They'll form your company fast, give you the documents you need to open a business bank account, and even provide you with mail scanning and a business address to keep your personal privacy intact. Visit - http://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist to get a 60% discount on your next LLC.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason joins seven strong startup pitches from LAUNCH Accelerator.(1:11) Jacqui kicks off the demo day.(1:40) Introductions to the guest jugdes.(4:40) Justin pitches Melengo(10:18) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://www.gusto.com/twist
(11:32) Edward ptiches PodcastAI(18:09) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist(19:04) Daniel pitches Tolt(24:55) Rae pitches River(27:49) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at - http://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist(34:01) Kash pitches TaxGPT(40:56) George pitches Fanfare(46:31) Jam pitches Monic.ai(52:05) Our panel of judges pick their top three pitches.
*
Apply to the LAUNCH Accelerator here: https://launchaccelerator.co/
Just getting started? Apply to Founder.University
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Follow these founders and their companies:
Justin Kwong & Melengo
https://www.melengo.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinckwong/
justin@melengo.com
Edward Brawer & PodcastAI
https://podcastai.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/edwardbrawer/
ebrawer@podcastai.com
Daniel Gjokaj & Tolt
https://tolt.io/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielgj/
daniel@tolt.io
Rae Lambert & River
https://app.getriver.io
https://www.linkedin.com/in/raechel-lambert/
rae@getriver.io
Kashif Ali & TaxGPT
https://www.taxgpt.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/chkashifali/
kash@taxgpt.com
George Lam & Fanfarehttps://fanfare.app/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgewlam/
george@fanfare.app Jam Mirzakhalov & Monic.ai
http://monic.ai/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mirzakhalov/
mirzakhalov@monic.ai
*
Thank you to our judges:
Ben Narasin - Tenacity Venture Capital
https://twitter.com/bnarasin
Blaine Davis - Outlander
https://twitter.com/blainerdavis
Minnie Ingersoll - TenOneTen
https://twitter.com/himinnie
Nicole Seah - Costanoa
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-seah1/
Stella Zhang - Conductive Ventures
https://www.linkedin.com/in/xinxin-stella-zhang/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:18) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://www.gusto.com/twist
(18:09) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist
(27:49) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at - http://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
LinkedIn Ads. To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to http://linkedin.com/angelpod
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers, get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
*
Todays show:
Jordan Stein from Cresset Partners joins Jason to discuss the firms motivation for investing in venture capital (1:12), the state of venture tourism (12:45), the Power Law and risk-taking in VC (29:26), and much more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jordan Stein from Cresset Partners joins Jason
(1:12) Cresset Partners’ motivation for investing in venture capital
(11:24) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://linkedin.com/angelpod
(12:45) The state of venture tourism
(20:00) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/twist
(21:25) Cresset Partners’ co-invest program
(29:26) Jordan's perspective on the Power Law and risk-taking in VC
(34:43) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(35:47) How Cresset Partners evaluates established and emerging VC managers
(43:02) Jason's framework for distinguishing "Likely Winners" vs "Definitive Winners”
(43:45) Cresset Partners’ goal of democratizing wealth management and VC access
*
Check out Cresset Partners:
https://cressetpartners.com/
*
Follow Jordan:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-stein17
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(11:24) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://linkedin.com/angelpod
(20:00) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/twist
(34:43) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
*
Check out the Launch Accelerator: https://launchaccelerator.co
*
Check out Founder University: https://www.founder.university
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at http://www.vanta.com/twist
Imagine AI LIVE is an AI conference where you'll learn how to apply AI in YOUR business directly from the people who build and use these tools. It's taking place March 27th and 28th in Las Vegas, and TWiST listeners can get 20% off tickets at http://imagineai.live/twist
*
Todays show:
Rahul Sidhu from Aerodome joins Jason to discuss how his startup is creating the future of public safety air support with an automated drone system. The two dive into privacy concerns and abuse potential for police drones (14:41), challenges of fundraising and selling to the government (34:22), the founding incident of Aerodome (38:46), and much more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Rahul Sidhu from Aerodome joins Jason
(3:44) How the Aerodome drone system works to respond to 911 calls
(13:17) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
(14:41) Privacy concerns and abuse potential with police drone usage
(19:43) FAA regulations, geofencing, and obstacle avoidance for drones
(25:16) Pricing and business model
(28:08) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(29:00) Object tracking and combining technologies
(34:22) The challenges of fundraising and selling to government as a startup, but increased venture interest in public safety tech
(37:31) Imagine AI LIVE - Get 20% off tickets at http://imagineai.live/twist
(38:46) Starting Aerodome during the pandemic and protests in 2020. Finding a moderate voice through the All-In podcast
(45:57) The importance of intellectual honesty, steel-manning arguments, and not being married to a single solution as a leader
(47:46) Potential future capabilities and focus on de-escalation
*
Check out Aerodome:
https://www.aerodome.com
*
Follow Rahul
X: https://twitter.com/rahoolsidoo
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rahulsidhu
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(13:17) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
(28:08) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(37:31) Imagine AI LIVE - Get 20% off tickets at http://imagineai.live/twist
*
Check out the Launch Accelerator: https://launchaccelerator.co
*
Check out Founder University: https://www.founder.university
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
MEV. Tired of the dev shop rollercoaster? Mev is your reliable technical partner, offering a well-established software development process designed to consistently deliver unparalleled value to their clients. Get $30,000 off your first three months at http://mev.com/twist!
Northwest Registered Agent. When starting your business, it's important to use a service that will actually help you. Northwest Registered Agent is that service. They'll form your company fast, give you the documents you need to open a business bank account, and even provide you with mail scanning and a business address to keep your personal privacy intact. Visit - https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist to get a 60% discount on your next LLC.
*
Todays show:
David Weisburd hosts Mark Suster, Samir Kaji, and Jason Calacanis to discuss the 2024 venture market (1:24), VCs selling secondaries (23:04), IPOS in 2024 (45:56), and much more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) David Weisburd hosts Mark Suster, Samir Kaji,, and Jason Calacanis
(1:24) Thoughts on IVP raising $1.3 Billion for their 18th fund and different angles on the current fundraising market
(14:28) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/twist
(15:53) Mark's strategy today for DPI (Distributed to Paid-In Capital)
(23:04) VCs selling secondaries and best practices when disclosing selling after hitting targets
(28:00) MEV - Get $30,000 off your first three months at http://mev.com/twist
(29:21) Thoughts on strip sales, continuation funds, and exotic secondary vehicles. When should GPs pursue that strategy?
(40:56) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at - https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(45:56) F-Prime's 2024 State of Fintech Report, the IPO market in 2024, and early stage fintech
(54:47) Kleiner Perkins and how a firm reboots
(1:03:01) The apprenticeship model in Venture Capital, and mistakes GPs make when interacting with LPs
(1:17:44) Rapid-fire segment on top recent investments
*
Mentioned on the show:
https://www.theinformation.com/articles/ivps-new-fund-shows-growth-investors-are-ready-to-get-off-sidelineshttps://techcrunch.com/2024/02/03/mamoon-hamid-and-ilya-fushman-of-kleiner-perkins-more-than-80-of-pitches-now-involve-ai/
https://fprimecapital.com/blog/the-2024-state-of-fintech-report
https://www.bland.ai
https://kuberahealth.com
https://www.stonealgo.com
https://giggster.com
*
Follow MarkX: https://twitter.com/msuster
*
Follow SamirX: https://twitter.com/Samirkaji
*
Follow David:
X: https://twitter.com/DWeisburd
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dweisburd
Check out: https://10xcapital.com
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(14:28) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/twist
(28:00) MEV - Get $30,000 off your first three months at http://mev.com/twist
(40:56) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at - https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
*
Check out the Launch Accelerator: https://launchaccelerator.co
*
Check out Founder University: https://www.founder.university
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
LinkedIn Ads. To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to http://linkedin.com/angelpod
Ketone-IQ is a clean energy boost without sugar or caffeine. Get 30% off your first subscription order of Ketone-IQ at http://hvmn.com/TWIST
Uizard. Struggling to transform innovative ideas into concrete product designs? Uizard can help you turn your visions into polished UI designs in a fraction of the time, while enhancing collaboration across your entire team. Get 25% off Uizard Pro for an entire year at uizard.io/twist
*
Todays show:
Alex Edelson of Slipstream Investors joins Jason to discuss fund of funds and their place in the venture ecosystem (1:28), ownership in relation to fund size (8:34), picking winners (25:08), generating liquidity for LPs (40:08), and much more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Slipstream Investor’s Alex Edelson joins Jason
(1:28) Alex explains what a fund of funds is and why people choose to invest in fund of funds rather than invest directly
(8:34) Why early stage funds overperform and ownership in relation to fund size
(11:48) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://linkedin.com/angelpod
(13:09) What Alex looks for when picking venture funds, ownership, and why people invest in fund of funds cont.
(19:49) Evaluating ability to compete for deals at seed vs pre-seed stage
(23:55) Ketone-IQ - Get 30% off your first subscription order of Ketone-IQ at http://hvmn.com/TWIST
(25:08) Picking winners: Identifying promising companies early and tracking them
(39:01) Uizard - Get 25% off Uizard Pro for an entire year at http://uizard.io/twist
(40:08) Generating liquidity for LPs and picking emerging fund managers
(56:47) Competing for deals at the seed stage, the differentiation between pre-seed and seed, and deciding when to double-down
(1:01:41) Alex turns the tables and asks Jason some questions. But, first why is optimal fund size important?
*
Follow AlexX: https://twitter.com/asedelsonCheck out Slipstream Investors: https://www.slipstreaminvestors.com/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(11:48) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://linkedin.com/angelpod
(23:55) Ketone-IQ - Get 30% off your first subscription order of Ketone-IQ at http://hvmn.com/TWIST
(39:01) Uizard - Get 25% off Uizard Pro for an entire year at http://uizard.io/twist
*
Check out the Launch Accelerator: https://launchaccelerator.co
*
Check out Founder University: https://www.founder.university
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at http://www.vanta.com/twist
Scalable Path. Want to speed up your product development without breaking the bank? Since 2010, Scalable Path has helped over 300 companies hire deeply vetted engineers in their time zone. Visit http://www.scalablepath.com/twist to get 20% off your first month.
LinkedIn Ads. To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
*
Todays show:
Sunny Madra joins Jason to demo Google’s rebranded Gemini Advanced (30:21), Apple’s MGIE (46:31), and to explore the significance of Microsoft’s Copilot (53:27), plus Lucite, AgentHub, Quilter and more!
*
Viewers! How are you enjoying the demos? What grades do you give these AI companies? Tell us what we got wrong and right and what demos you’d like to see on the podcast. Let us know by mentioning us on X.com.https://x.com/Sundeep
https://x.com/Jason
https://x.com/twistartups
*
See the full list of all AI demos from the show here: thisweekinstartups.com/AI
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Sunny Madra joins Jason
(1:56) Super Bowl viewership numbers compared to YouTubers like Mr. Beast.
(6:23) Sunny demos AgentHub.
(10:34) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(12:32) The secrets behind all these media and tech layoffs.
(20:02) Scalable Path - Get 20% off your first month at http://www.scalablepath.com/twist
(21:23) Sunny demos Lucite.
(22:54) There is a need for AI that fact-checks other AI.
(29:09) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(30:21) The rebranding of Google’s Bard to Gemini while Sunny attempts to demo Gemini Advanced.
(40:15) Sunny demos Quilter.
(46:31) Sunny demos Apple’s MGIE.
(50:41) Answering who will win between Microsoft and OpenAI vs Apple and Meta.
(53:27) The significance of Microsoft Copilot.
*
Links:
Check out AgentHub: https://www.agenthub.dev/
Check out Lucite: https://www.lucite.app/home
Check out Quilter: https://app.quilter.ai/
Check out Apple’s MGIE: https://github.com/apple/ml-mgie
Check out Gemini: https://gemini.google.com/app
Check out Microsoft Copilot Commercial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SaCVSUbYpVc
*
Follow SunnyX: https://twitter.com/sundeepCheck out Definitive: https://www.definitive.io/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:34) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(20:02) Scalable Path - Get 20% off your first month at http://www.scalablepath.com/twist
(29:09) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
*
Check out the Launch Accelerator: https://launchaccelerator.co
*
Check out Founder University: https://www.founder.university
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Imagine AI LIVE is an AI conference where you'll learn how to apply AI in YOUR business directly from the people who build and use these tools. It's taking place March 27th and 28th in Las Vegas, and TWiST listeners can get 20% off tickets at http://www.imagineai.live/twist
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers, get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://www.Lemon.io/twist
*
Todays show:
Jason speaks to Brian Singerman of Founders Fund about tips for emerging venture capitalists (6:40), a missed opportunity by an overconfident LP (15:49), self-awareness, strategy, the state of venture capital (40:47), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason speaks to Brian Singerman of Founders Fund.
(2:31) “Adapt or die!” and the unique approach and strategy at Founders Fund.
(6:40) Brian's tips for emerging venture capitalists on making investments.
(10:09) Imagine AI LIVE - Get 20% off tickets at http://www.imagineai.live/twist
(11:24) Brian reflects on his career's trials and triumphs
(15:49) Brian shares an anecdote about a gloating LP who passed on one of the greatest venture funds in history.
(21:36) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
(23:04) Brian’s approach for securing a deal with founders.
(28:03) The sharp mind of Sean Parker.
(31:32) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://www.Lemon.io/twist
(32:37) The character of founders who change the world and how to work with them.
(37:30) Regulation and the anti-competitive landscape of large companies in the US.
(40:47) Self-awareness, strategy and the state of venture capital.
(44:00) Keith Rabois's transition from Founders Fund back to Khosla Ventures.
(47:27) Reflecting on Ikigai and finding joy and value in one's passion.
*
Links:
Check out Founders Fund: https://foundersfund.com/
Check out past TWiST episode #748 with Brian: https://youtu.be/O8emgaUsOZY?feature=shared
*
Follow Brian:
X: https://twitter.com/briansin
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-singerman-9333b52/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:09) Imagine AI LIVE - Get 20% off tickets at http://www.imagineai.live/twist
(21:36) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
(31:32) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://www.Lemon.io/twist
*
Check out the Launch Accelerator: https://launchaccelerator.co
*
Check out Founder University: https://www.founder.university
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers, get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
Northwest Registered Agent. When starting your business, it's important to use a service that will actually help you. Northwest Registered Agent is that service. They'll form your company fast, give you the documents you need to open a business bank account, and even provide you with mail scanning and a business address to keep your personal privacy intact. Visit - https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist to get a 60% discount on your next LLC.
*
Todays show:
David Weisburd hosts Grady Buchanan, Victor Gutwein, and Jason Calacanis to discuss dry powder in VC (1:38), VCs rating VCs (14:22), a study on whether returns persist in venture capital (29:33), and much more
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) David Weisburd hosts Grady Buchanan, Victor Gutwein, and Jason Calacanis
(1:38) VC dry powder levels, cash management by GPs, and investment pace adjustments.
(12:57) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
(14:22) The importance of GP selection for LPs, VC firm ratings, and the impact of relationships in the VC ecosystem
(28:30) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(29:33) Performing due diligence on funds and the persistence of VC Returns
(42:00) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at - https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(51:41) Rapid-fire segment on top recent investments
*
Mentioned on the show:
https://www.corraltech.com
https://www.hydeparkvp.com
https://deciens.com
https://www.rallyventures.com
https://pavewisepro.com
https://selffundhealth.com
https://www.deeptrustai.com
*
Follow Grady:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gradyb/
Check out: https://nvngia.com/
*
Follow Victor:
X: https://twitter.com/lalayak
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victor-gutwein
Check out: https://m25vc.com
*
Follow David:
X: https://twitter.com/DWeisburd
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dweisburd
Check out: https://10xcapital.com
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(12:57) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
(28:30) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(42:00) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at - https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
*
Check out the Launch Accelerator: https://launchaccelerator.co
*
Check out Founder University: https://www.founder.university
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
Gusto is easy online payroll, benefits, and HR built for modern small businesses. Get three months free when you run your first payroll at Gusto.com/twist.
LinkedIn Jobs. A business is only as strong as its people, and every hire matters. Go to LinkedIn.com/TWIST to post your first job for free. Terms and conditions apply.
*
Todays show:
Sunny Madra joins Jason to demo an AI that analyzes human expression (2:07), a generative gaming platform (23:26), Hugging Faces Assistants (39:12), and much more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Sunny Madra joins Jason
(2:07) Hume AI - AI toolkit to measure, understand, and improve how technology affects human emotion
(6:53) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/twist
(7:57) Hume AI demo continued
(19:15) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://gusto.com/twist
(20:25) AI Bet Update - Small model deployed on iphone/android
(23:26) FRVR AI - Generative AI to streamline game creation
(34:16) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(35:19) Calling GPTS with @
(39:12) Hugging Face Assistants - LLM-powered assistants specialized in the Hugging Face ecosystem
(45:05) Eleven Labs ChatGPT
*
Mentioned on the show:
Hume: https://beta.hume.ai
FRVR: https://beta.frvr.ai
Hugging Face Assistants: https://huggingface.co/chat/assistants
Eleven Labs ChatGPT: https://chat.openai.com/g/g-h0lbLuFF1-elevenlabs-text-to-speechhttps://twitter.com/dnystedt/status/1754323506056266149
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=th3vzKTE0O8
*
Follow Sunny:
X: https://twitter.com/sundeep
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sundeepm
Check out: https://www.definitive.io
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(6:53) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/twist
(19:15) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://gusto.com/twist
(34:16) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
*
Check out the Launch Accelerator: https://launchaccelerator.co
*
Check out Founder University: https://www.founder.university
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at https://www.vanta.com/
NetSuite. Once your business gets to a certain size the cracks start to emerge. Things you used to do in a day take a week. You deserve a customized solution - and that's NetSuite. Learn more when you download NetSuite’s popular KPI Checklist - absolutely free, at http://www.NetSuite.com/twist
Scalable Path. Want to speed up your product development without breaking the bank? Since 2010, Scalable Path has helped over 300 companies hire deeply vetted engineers in their time zone. Visit https://www.scalablepath.com/twist to get 20% off your first month.
*
Todays show:
Jason talks with Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian about their pending IPO (2:48), advice he tells young people starting out at his firm (13:51), then Ron Biscardi discusses the future of the iConnections conference (47:01), and more!
*
LINKS:
Check out Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/
Check out iConnections: https://iconnections.io/
*
Follow Alexis:
X: https://twitter.com/alexisohanian
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexisohanian/
Follow Ron:
X: https://twitter.com/rbiscardi
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ron-biscardi-79063/
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(11:48) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(22:19) NetSuite - Download your free KPI Checklist at http://www.NetSuite.com/twist
(32:42) Scalable Path - Get 20% off your first month at https://www.scalablepath.com/twist
*
Check out the Launch Accelerator: https://launchaccelerator.co
*
Check out Founder University: https://www.founder.university
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Curotec. Are you one of those companies that knows you need to be using AI, but you're not even sure where to start? Well then you need Curotec. They are AI experts, and they're offering TWiST listeners an AI Strategy Roadmap tailored to your business for $5000. That's 50% off the normal cost just for telling them we sent you. Check out http://www.curotec.com/twist and get $5000 off!
Northwest Registered Agent. When starting your business, it's important to use a service that will actually help you. Northwest Registered Agent is that service. They'll form your company fast, give you the documents you need to open a business bank account, and even provide you with mail scanning and a business address to keep your personal privacy intact. Visit - https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist to get a 60% discount on your next LLC.
Ketone-IQ is a clean energy boost without sugar or caffeine. Get 30% off your first subscription order of Ketone-IQ at http://hvmn.com/TWIST
*
Todays show:
Beeper's Eric Migicovsky joins Jason to discuss Beeper's mission of providing a universal chat app (1:32), Apple blocking Beeper Mini after just 3 days (13:35), fighting back against Apple as a startup founder (18:31), and much more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Beeper’s Eric Migicovsky joins Jason
(1:32) Beeper and its mission of providing a universal chat app
(6:30) How Apple locks people into iMessage and makes it hard to switch from iPhone
(12:11) Curotec - Check out http://www.curotec.com/twist and get $5000 off
(13:35) Beeper Mini's release and Apple blocking Beeper Mini after just 3 days
(18:31) Fighting back against Apple as a startup founder
(21:24) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at - https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(22:18) The fight against Apple and thoughts on the outcome
(28:01) Prior experience dealing with platform restrictions at Pebble and the differences in timelines between startups and government regulation
(35:04) Ketone-IQ - Get 30% off your first subscription order of Ketone-IQ at http://hvmn.com/TWIST
(36:17) Apple's response to recent court rulings requiring App Store changes
(38:54) Speculation on whether Apple's AR glasses will succeed
(41:35) Eric's vision for the future with open protocols for messaging and Beeper's business model
Mentioned on the show:
https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/9/23995150/beeper-imessage-android-apple-statement
https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/priorities-2019-2024/europe-fit-digital-age/digital-markets-act-ensuring-fair-and-open-digital-markets_en
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/getpebble/pebble-2-time-2-and-core-an-entirely-new-3g-ultra
https://37signals.com/podcast/this-again-apple/
*
Follow Eric:
X: https://twitter.com/ericmigi
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericmigi/
Check out: https://www.beeper.com/mini
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(12:11) Curotec - Check out http://www.curotec.com/twist and get $5000 off
(21:24) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at - https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(35:04) Ketone-IQ - Get 30% off your first subscription order of Ketone-IQ at http://hvmn.com/TWIST
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Uizard.io will help bring your vision to life in minutes, not days with the power of AI. Visit http://uizard.io/twist to get 25% off Uizard Pro for an entire year.
Northwest Registered Agent. When starting your business, it's important to use a service that will actually help you. Northwest Registered Agent is that service. They'll form your company fast, give you the documents you need to open a business bank account, and even provide you with mail scanning and a business address to keep your personal privacy intact. Visit - https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist to get a 60% discount on your next LLC.
Nuts.com is offering new customers a free gift with purchase and free shipping on orders of $29 or more at http://www.Nuts.com/twist
*
Today’s show:
Jason kicks off the show with an update on the late-stage VC market (1:44). Then, Terra Kaffe’s Sahand Dilmaghani joins to discuss Terra Kaffe’s super-automatic machines (19:35), scaling the B2C business (29:59), and much more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show!
(1:44) Late-stage VC market update
(10:41) Uizard - Get 25% off Uizard Pro for an entire year at http://uizard.io/twist
(11:49) Sahand Dilmaghani on his decision to start Terra Kaffe
(19:35) Advantages of the Terra Kaffe machines compared to pod machines
(24:29) What is takes for a super-automatic machine to make great coffee
(29:05) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at - https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(29:59) Scaling where the product is viable, offices, schools, multifamily homes
(35:27) Nuts.com - Get a free gift with purchase and free shipping on orders of $29 or more at http://www.Nuts.com/twist
(36:30) The progress in sales and experience with direct to consumer
(50:32) Founder Fridays kicks off today! - Go to https://Thisweekinstartups.com/meetups to learn more
*
Mentioned on the show:
https://www.ft.com/content/18430e05-33c0-4f48-8c87-fae74ff29bbf
https://www.ft.com/content/eb2e085a-ef5a-4e91-8634-747e2a602fbe
*
Follow Sahand:
X: https://twitter.com/terrakaffe
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sahand-dilmaghani/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:41) Uizard - Get 25% off Uizard Pro for an entire year at http://uizard.io/twist
(29:05) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at - https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(35:27) Nuts.com - Get a free gift with purchase and free shipping on orders of $29 or more at http://www.Nuts.com/twist
*
Check out the Launch Accelerator: https://launchaccelerator.co
*
Check out Founder University: https://www.founder.university
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
LinkedIn Marketing. To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers, and get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://www.Lemon.io/twist
*
Today’s show:
Cendana’s Michael Kim joins Jason for a deep dive on fund of funds (3:32), how to examine alpha, beta, and quality indices in early-stage investing (28:38), current market trends, future startup outlook (45:11), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Michael Kim joins Jason.
(3:32) Overview of Fund of Funds, their Strengths and “Achilles heel”.
(7:01) Attraction factors for investors in pre-seed and seed startups.
(10:42) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(12:04) The rise and definition of “micro VCs” with insights by Michael Kim.
(15:16) How the early seed stage carved a niche and its growing appeal to LPs.
(22:07) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(23:12) Fund enablers and the importance of “consistent returns”.
(28:38) Examining alpha, beta, and quality indices in early-stage investing.
(34:21) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://www.Lemon.io/twist
(35:29) The significance of portfolio management as networks and building a ‘why' for founders to pick you as an investor.
(41:25) The value and longevity of investor networks.
(45:11) Current market trends, future startup outlook.
(48:08) Things have shifted and Michael explains why seed is the new series-A and pre-seed is the new seed.
(52:10) Demographics of founders seeking investment.
*
LINKS
Check out Cendana Capital: https://www.cendanacapital.com/
Watch other episodes with Micheal Kim:
- E1075: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SSOhe-FnTJE
- E1879: https://youtu.be/1Dcu5BfnE_c?feature=shared
Check out the Liquidity Podcast: LiquidityPod.com
*
Follow Michael:
X: https://twitter.com/MKRocks
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-kim-cendana-capital/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(10:42) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(22:07) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(34:21) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://www.Lemon.io/twist
*
Check out the Launch Accelerator: https://launchaccelerator.co
*
Check out Founder University: https://www.founder.university
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at vanta.com/twist
MEV. Tired of the dev shop rollercoaster? Mev is your reliable technical partner, offering a well-established software development process designed to consistently deliver unparalleled value to their clients. Get $30,000 off your first three months at http://mev.com/twist!
The Paintbrush Loan is the earliest startup financing on the internet. No pitch deck, no business plan, no minimum time in business, and no warm intros. Plus, you get to keep your equity. Visit http://getpaintbrush.com to see if you qualify for a $50K startup loan in less than 2 minutes.
*
Today’s show:
Zest's Jake Gutstein joins Jason to discuss his journey in creating the cooking app Zest (1:37). The two dive into how the Zest team formed (10:29), finding the right tools for your startup (25:24), Jake's experience in the Launch Accelerator program (33:27), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Zest’s Jake Gutstein joins Jason
(1:37) What prompted the creation of Zest and the initial concept and MVP for Zest
(9:22) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(10:29) The product development, initial testing, and finding a technical co-founder
(17:21) The decision to go full-time with Zest, the process of raising initial funding, and the importance of overcoming ambiguity and uncertainty
(20:54) MEV - Get $30,000 off your first three months at http://mev.com/twist
(22:05) Demo of Zest’s product
(25:24) Finding the right tools and mentors and the value propositions of Zest discovered through user research
(32:35) Paintbrush - Visit http://getpaintbrush.com to see if you qualify for a $50K startup loan in less than 2 minutes
(33:27) Product launch, approach to fundraising, and experience with the Launch Accelerator program
(46:48) Future plans and goals for Zest
*
Check out the Launch Accelerator: https://launchaccelerator.co
*
Check out Founder University: https://www.founder.university
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Mentioned on the show:
https://www.respondent.io
https://therewiredgroup.com
https://twitter.com/bmoesta
https://twitter.com/nealsales
https://twitter.com/jasonfried
https://twitter.com/dhh
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7LK6lKCKMQM
*
Follow Jake:
X: https://twitter.com/GutsteinJakeLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-gutsteinCheck out: https://zestapp.co
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(9:22) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(20:54) MEV - Get $30,000 off your first three months at http://mev.com/twist
(32:35) Paintbrush - Visit http://getpaintbrush.com to see if you qualify for a $50K startup loan in less than 2 minutes
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
Curotec. Are you one of those companies that knows you need to be using AI, but you're not even sure where to start? Well then you need Curotec. They are AI experts, and they're offering TWiST listeners an AI Strategy Roadmap tailored to your business for $5000. That's 50% off the normal cost just for telling them we sent you. Check out http://www.curotec.com/twist and get $5000 off!
Northwest Registered Agent. When starting your business, it's important to use a service that will actually help you. Northwest Registered Agent is that service. They'll form your company fast, give you the documents you need to open a business bank account, and even provide you with mail scanning and a business address to keep your personal privacy intact. Visit - https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist to get a 60% discount on your next LLC.
*
Today’s show:Sunny joins Jason to celebrate their 100th demo on the show (3:03), explore Paid Leave (17:29), and comb through the X posts of Barsee (32:41), and much, much, more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Sunny joins Jason
(3:03) We demo MultiOn, our 100th demo on the show!
(12:01) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
(13:30) Jason gives his grade and signs up to use MultiOn.
(17:29) Sunny demos Paid Leave powered by MOMS F1RST.
(21:04) Curotec - Check out http://www.curotec.com/twist and get $5000 off
(23:40) AI demo of Consensus.
(26:53) Consensus reminds Jason of the life and tragedy of Aaron Swartz.
(29:54) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at - https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(32:41) Sunny jumps onto X to show us important advancements in AI posted by Barsee.
(35:17) Sunny demos “Depth Anything”.
*
This episode is dedicated to the memory of Aaron Swartz.
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
LINKS:
Check out the list of AI demos here: https://thisweekinstartups.com/AI
Check out MultiOn: https://www.multion.ai/
Check out Paid Leave: https://www.paidleave.ai/
Check out Consensus: https://consensus.app/
Rolling Stone Article on Aaron Swarts: https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-news/the-brilliant-life-and-tragic-death-of-aaron-swartz-177191/
Check out Barsee here: https://twitter.com/heyBarsee
*
Follow Sunny
X: https://twitter.com/sundeepCheck out: https://www.definitive.io/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thank you to our partners:
(12:01) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
(21:04) Curotec - Check out http://www.curotec.com/twist and get $5000 off
(29:54) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at - https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Ketone-IQ is a clean energy boost without sugar or caffeine. Get 30% off your first subscription order of Ketone-IQ at http://www.hvmn.com/TWIST
The Paintbrush Loan is the earliest startup financing on the internet. No pitch deck, no business plan, no minimum time in business, and no warm intros. Plus, you get to keep your equity. Visit http://www.getpaintbrush.com to see if you qualify for a $50K startup loan in less than 2 minutes.
Coda is the all-in-one doc for teams. And they introduced an AI-powered assistant to take the BUSY out of the WORK! Get started for free at https://www.coda.io/twist
*
Today’s show:Aileen Lee join Jason to talk about her origins and overcoming challenges as a woman in a male-dominated tech space (2:12), the Unicorn Club and the effects of the ZIRP era (11:51), predictions on which startups will maintain their unicorn status (33:09), and more!
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
LINKS:
Check out Cowboy Ventures: https://www.cowboy.vc/
Read Aileen’s 2024 article here: https://www.cowboy.vc/news/welcome-back-to-the-unicorn-club-10-years-later
Read Aileen’s original Unicorn article here: https://techcrunch.com/2013/11/02/welcome-to-the-unicorn-club/
Check out All Raise: https://www.allraise.org/
*
Thanks to our partners:
(10:26) Ketone-IQ - Get 30% off your first subscription order of Ketone-IQ at http://www.hvmn.com/TWIST
(20:39) Paintbrush - Visit http://www.getpaintbrush.com to see if you qualify for a $50K startup loan in less than 2 minutes
(31:38) Coda - Get started for free at https://www.coda.io/twist
*
Follow Eileen
X: https://twitter.com/aileenlee
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aileenwlee
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
Northwest Registered Agent. When starting your business, it's important to use a service that will actually help you. Northwest Registered Agent is that service. They'll form your company fast, give you the documents you need to open a business bank account, and even provide you with mail scanning and a business address to keep your personal privacy intact. Visit - https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist to get a 60% discount on your next LLC.
LinkedIn Jobs. A business is only as strong as its people, and every hire matters. Go to LinkedIn.com/TWIST to post your first job for free. Terms and conditions apply.
*
Today’s show:David Weisburd hosts Elizabeth Yin, Zach Coelius, and Jason Calacanis to discuss trends in venture capital, including the growth of fund sizes (2:32), the resurgence of the Bay Area (33:42), the decrease in capital efficiency (51:12), the rise in unicorn companies but lack of liquidity (45:11), and top recent investments (57:27)!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) David Weisburd hosts Elizabeth Yin, Zach Coelius, and Jason Calacanis to dive into the state of venture funds
(2:32) Venture funds are growing in size despite the slow market
(10:37) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/twist
(11:43) Exploring the performance: smaller funds vs. larger funds
(28:56) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at - https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(29:49) Hustle Fund’s quantitative approach to evaluating startups
(33:42) Is the Bay Area officially back?
(43:51) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(45:11) Number of unicorns has increased but liquidity has decreased
(51:12) The decline in capital efficiency over the past decade
(57:27) Rapid-fire segment on top recent investments
*
LINKS:
https://www.wsj.com/articles/pro-take-why-venture-fund-sizes-rose-despite-the-slow-market-fd4c4677
https://www.cowboy.vc/news/welcome-back-to-the-unicorn-club-10-years-later
*
Thanks to our partners:
(10:37) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/twist
(28:56) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at - https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(43:51) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
*
Follow Elizabeth
X: https://twitter.com/dunkhippo33
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethyin/
Check out: https://hustlefund.vc
Check out: https://letsgo.hustlefund.vc/raise-millions
Check out: Bruinhealth.com
Check out: Goafterwork.com
*
Follow Zach
X: https://twitter.com/zachcoelius
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachcoelius/
Check out: https://coelius.vc/
Check out: Echomark.com
Check out: Findbugzero.com
*
Follow David
X: https://twitter.com/DWeisburd
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dweisburd/
Check out: https://10xcapital.com/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Check out: Podcast.ai
Check out: Zestapp.co
Check out: getriver.io
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at openphone.com/twist
Scalable Path. Want to speed up your product development without breaking the bank? Since 2010, Scalable Path has helped over 300 companies hire deeply vetted engineers in their time zone. Visit http://scalablepath.com/twist to get 20% off your first month.
Uizard.io will help bring your vision to life in minutes, not days with the power of AI. Visit http://uizard.io/twist to get 25% off Uizard Pro for an entire year.
*
Today’s show:
Rabbit CEO Jesse Lyu joins Jason to discuss the viral launch of Rabbit's R1 AI companion device at CES, covering the ambitious product vision (1:37), unique design (23:30), custom-built OS and LLM (11:30), manufacturing logistics (49:45), and much more!
*
Timestamps:
(00:00) Rabbit’s Jesse Lyu joins Jason
(1:37) Introduction and Pricing of Rabbit R1, a Pocket AI Device
(7:07) Differences between large language models and large action models
(10:03) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://openphone.com/twist
(11:30) Data collection process for training the Large Action Model (LAM), Neuro-symbolic algorithm vs. traditional Robotic Process Automation (RPA)
(16:08) Authentication and access to Rabbit's Web Portal, privacy considerations, and speed and latency of voice interactions
(23:30) The role of Teenage Engineering in design inspiration
(30:47) Scalable Path - Get 20% off your first month at http://scalablepath.com/twist
(32:07) Potential frustrations and limitations with the Rabbit R1 compared to smartphones
(41:30) Uizard - Get 25% off Uizard Pro for an entire year at http://uizard.io/twist
(42:38) Evaluating the Accuracy of Voice-to-Text Translations
(49:45) Product timeline, experimental features, and getting devices to early adopters
(1:12:37) Rabbit’s early development, Jesse's journey, and future prospects of AI
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
LINKS:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=22wlLy7hKP4
https://teenage.engineering
https://www.whathifi.com/news/headphone-30-could-a-computer-in-your-ear-change-headphones-forever
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7iU6K7NccXk
*
Thanks to our partners:
(10:03) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://openphone.com/twist
(30:47) Scalable Path - Get 20% off your first month at http://scalablepath.com/twist
(41:30) Uizard - Get 25% off Uizard Pro for an entire year at http://uizard.io/twist
*
Follow Jesse
X: https://twitter.com/jessechenglyu
Check out: https://www.rabbit.tech
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Northwest Registered Agent. When starting your business, it's important to use a service that will actually help you. Northwest Registered Agent is that service. They'll form your company fast, give you the documents you need to open a business bank account, and even provide you with mail scanning and a business address to keep your personal privacy intact. Visit - https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist to get a 60% discount on your next LLC.
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at https://www.vanta.com/twist
Gusto is easy online payroll, benefits, and HR built for modern small businesses. Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://www.gusto.com/twist
*
Today’s show:
Sunny Madra joins Jason to demo video creation platform Hour One (9:28), meal planner Dinnerfly (26:35), a short film titled “Borrowed Time,” entirely created using AI tools (49:18), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Sunny Madra joins Jason
(1:37) Exploring the dynamics of AI in the workplace, focusing on remote work management and efficiency debates.
(9:28) Sunny demos Hour One sparked from Reid Hoffman’s deep fake post.
(12:06) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at - https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(13:35) Sunny further demos his own use of Hour One.
(17:22) Sunny demos Bland AI.
(21:29) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(22:37) Jason and Sunny analyze "Bland AI," discussing various applications and evaluating the demo.
(26:35) Sunny demos Dinnerfly.
(31:52) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://www.gusto.com/twist
(34:25) A conversation on Apple’s behaviour regarding its oxygen technology in smartwatches, including a fun John Malkovich reference from the film "Rounders.”
(37:42) Sunny demos AI Comic Factory.
(49:18) Sunny presents a short film entirely created using AI tools, titled “Borrowed Time.”
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
LINKS:
Check out Hour One: https://app.hourone.ai/home
Check out Bland: https://www.bland.ai/turbo
Check out Dinnerfy: https://app.dinnerfy.com/
Check out AI Comic Factory: https://huggingface.co/spaces/jbilcke-hf/ai-comic-factory
Check out AI short film “Borrowing Time”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WCIsHNQHcKQ
Check out Jason and Sunny’s 2024 AI bets: http://www.thisweekinstartups/bets
Check out our AI demo clips: http://www.thisweekinstartups.com/AI
*
Thanks to our partners:
(12:06) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at - https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(21:29) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(31:52) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://www.gusto.com/twist
*
Follow Sunny
X: https://twitter.com/sundeep
Check out: https://www.definitive.io/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
The Paintbrush Loan is the earliest startup financing on the internet. No pitch deck, no business plan, no minimum time in business, and no warm intros. Plus, you get to keep your equity. Visit http://www.getpaintbrush.com to see if you qualify for a $50K startup loan in less than 2 minutes.
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers, get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://www.Lemon.io/twist
*
Today’s show:
David Weisburd hosts Jason Shuman, Raja Doddala, and Jason Calacanis to dive into 2024 startup valuation trends (2:00), insights on how VCs can secure great deals in a competitive market (17:46), a detailed look at secondary deals (36:25), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) David Weisburd hosts Jason Shuman, Raja Doddala Jason Calacanis to dive into the world of VCs, LPs and GPs.
(2:00) A look at the encouraging trends in startup valuations as we head into 2024.
(6:39) Delving into the intricacies of current valuation methods and key aspects investors should be cautious about.
(11:22) Paintbrush - Visit http://www.getpaintbrush.com to see if you qualify for a $50K startup loan in less than 2 minutes
(13:42) Examining the balance of demand and supply in the seed funding stage of new startups.
(17:46) Insights on how venture capitalists can secure the most sought-after deals in today's competitive market.
(22:00) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(23:29) Discussion about M.A.N.G., a rising player in the venture capital scene.(28:26) Exploring the unique and often controversial practice of round-tripping in the venture capital industry.
(33:03) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://www.Lemon.io/twist
(36:25) A detailed look at Lexington's successful raising of $22.7 million in secondary investments.
(57:24) Observing the recent increase in mergers and acquisitions activity within the industry.
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Check out Churchill Asset Management here: https://www.churchillam.com/
Check out Primary Ventures here: https://www.primary.vc/
Check out David’s other podcast here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCncFI0XEvTu7k4er6BgVN9g
*
Thanks to our partners:
(11:22) Paintbrush - Visit http://www.getpaintbrush.com to see if you qualify for a $50K startup loan in less than 2 minutes
(22:00) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(33:03) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://www.Lemon.io/twist
*
Follow at:
X:
https://twitter.com/JasonrShuman
https://twitter.com/rdoddala
https://twitter.com/DWeisburd
https://twitter.com/Jason
*
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dweisburd
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajadoddala
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonshuman/
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
Northwest Registered Agent. When starting your business, it's important to use a service that will actually help you. Northwest Registered Agent is that service. They'll form your company fast, give you the documents you need to open a business bank account, and even provide you with mail scanning and a business address to keep your personal privacy intact. Visit http://northwestregisteredagent.com/twist to get a 60% discount on your next LLC.
LinkedIn Marketing. To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to http://linkedin.com/angelpod
*
Today’s show:
Joshua Berkowitz joins Jason discuss the critical role of LPs in venture capital, his family office's diversification into the field (4:37), strategies for evaluating and selecting fund managers (14:26), and the intricacies of fund management and fundraising (30:41).
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Berkocorp’s Joshua Berkowitz joins Jason
(4:37) Why family offices diversify into venture capital - higher returns, high dispersion of returns, and the entrepreneurial aspect
(9:32) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/twist
(10:59) Evaluating emerging managers - looking for exceptional strategies and execution
(14:26) Decision making processes at venture firms - consensus vs individual decision-making.
(19:56) What a VC fund has to do to be successful
(25:48) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at http://northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(26:41) Pros and cons of GPs being very vocal/political on social media
(30:41) Quick disqualifications when evaluating new VC funds and challenges with GP "tourism"
(34:59) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://linkedin.com/angelpod
(36:20) What kills companies - "likely winners" vs "definitive winners"
(58:42) Clarity in the process for GPs raising funds from LPs
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Check out: https://www.berkocorp.ca/
*
Thanks to our partners:
(9:32) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/twist
(25:48) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at http://northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(34:59) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://linkedin.com/angelpod
*
Follow at:
X:
https://twitter.com/berkowitz_josh
https://twitter.com/Jason
*
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Curotec. Are you one of those companies that knows you need to be using AI, but you're not even sure where to start? Well then you need Curotec. They are AI experts, and they're offering TWiST listeners an AI Strategy Roadmap tailored to your business for $5000. That's 50% off the normal cost just for telling them we sent you. Check out curotec.com/twist and get $5000 off!
Miro. Working remotely doesn’t mean you need to feel disconnected from your team. Miro is an online whiteboard that brings teams together - anytime, anywhere. Go to https://miro.com/startups to sign up for a FREE account with unlimited team members.
Ketone-IQ is a clean energy boost without sugar or caffeine. Get 30% off your first subscription order of Ketone-IQ at http://hvmn.com/TWIST
*
Today’s show:
Flexport's Ryan Petersen joins Jason to discuss the economics of "pick and pack" (5:42), factory-to-consumer effects (16:00), the impact of the Red Sea crisis (24:14), Flexport's leadership changes (35:11), and much more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Flexport’s Ryan Petersen joins Jason
(1:19) Ryan explains Flexport and the companies focus
(5:42) The Economics of Pick and Pack - Shipping Directly from China to Customer
(11:15) Miro - Sign up for a free account at https://miro.com/startups
(12:31) The Origin of Pick and Pack in Global Logistics
(16:00) Factory-to-Consumer Effects on Fulfillment Centers and Product Quality
(22:50) Curotec - Check out http://curotec.com/twist and get $5000 off
(24:14) Analyzing the Impact of the Red Sea Crisis on Shipping
(29:35) The Trend of Companies Sourcing from Factories Outside China
(33:58) Ketone-IQ - Get 30% off your first subscription order of Ketone-IQ at http://hvmn.com/TWIST
(35:11) Inside the Flexport CEO Drama and Leadership Challenges
(42:28) How the Market Collapse Influenced Flexport's CEO Transition
(47:51) Deciding When a Company Should Go Public
(52:07) The State of the Global Workforce and Remote Work in Today's World
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
LINKS:
https://www.freightwaves.com/news/flexport-acquires-shopifys-fulfillment-business
https://customscity.com/from-past-to-present-a-historical-overview-of-section-321-and-its-influence-on-customs-compliance/#:~:text=Section
https://news.usni.org/2024/01/07/indian-navy-retakes-merchant-ship-from-armed-hijackers-in-the-arabian-sea
https://www.oberlo.com/blog/what-is-epacket-delivery
https://www.neom.com/en-us/about/business?gclid=CjwKCAiA-vOsBhAAEiwAIWR0TWI18Hs6lr63ifzYvlOoQMChQJQ9Dqmt4XNzza3SoFSC-_16kQtvCxoCikAQAvD_BwE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BubAF7KSs64
*
Thanks to our partners:
(11:15) Miro - Sign up for a free account at https://miro.com/startups
(22:50) Curotec - Check out http://curotec.com/twist and get $5000 off
(33:58) Ketone-IQ - Get 30% off your first subscription order of Ketone-IQ at http://hvmn.com/TWIST
*
Follow at:
X:
https://twitter.com/typesfast
https://twitter.com/Jason
*
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at https://www.vanta.com/twist
MEV. Tired of the dev shop rollercoaster? Mev is your reliable technical partner, offering a well-established software development process designed to consistently deliver unparalleled value to their clients. Get $30,000 off your first three months at http://www.mev.com/twist
Imagine AI LIVE is an AI conference where you'll learn how to apply AI in YOUR business directly from the people who build and use these tools. It's taking place March 27th and 28th in Las Vegas, and TWiST listeners can get 20% off tickets at http://www.imagineai.live/twist
*
Today’s show:
Sunny Madra joins Jason to explore CES 2024 highlights including the buzzworthy new device Rabbit R1 (3:57), Elli Q, a new AI companion for the elderly (23:44), the launch of the GPT store (49:22), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Sunny Madra joins Jason
(2:11) Review of CES, highlighting AI's omnipresence.
(3:57) The new device 'Rabbit' at CES, generating significant buzz!
(10:26) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(11:34) Evaluating the Rabbit R1 and purpose-built devices.
(19:42) MEV - Get $30,000 off your first three months at http://www.mev.com/twist
(21:04) The role of AI in integrating services via Large Language Models (LLMs).
(23:44) Sunny demos Elli Q, a new AI companion for the elderly.
(32:03) Imagine AI LIVE - Get 20% off tickets at http://www.imagineai.live/twist
(33:37) Sunny showcases a new smartphone designed for kids.
(49:22) The launch of the GPT store
(43:23) Sunny checks out a GPT called “The Associate” and pitches a fun startup idea.
(45:57) Exploring the brave new world and disruptive ability of the GPT store using All Trails as a case study.
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Check out Definiteive Intelligernce: https://www.definitive.io/about
*
LINKS:
Verge Article on CES and AI: https://www.theverge.com/2024/1/13/24035152/ces-generative-ai-hype-robots
Bill Gates / Sam Altman Interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PkXELH6Y2lM
Rabbit AI: https://www.rabbit.tech/
Elli-Q: https://elliq.com
MMGuardian article: https://venturebeat.com/games/mmguardian-debuts-ai-smartphones-for-kids/
*
Thanks to our partners:
(10:26) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(19:42) MEV - Get $30,000 off your first three months at http://www.mev.com/twist
(32:03) Imagine AI LIVE - Get 20% off tickets at http://www.imagineai.live/twist
*
Follow at:
X:
https://twitter.com/sundeep
https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Northwest Registered Agent. When starting your business, it's important to use a service that will actually help you. Northwest Registered Agent is that service. They'll form your company fast, give you the documents you need to open a business bank account, and even provide you with mail scanning and a business address to keep your personal privacy intact. Visit http://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist to get a 60% discount on your next LLC.
DevSquad. Most dev agencies only offer developers. Why? Because product management is hard. Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://www.devsquad.com/twist
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
*
Today’s show:
Michael Kim joins David Weisburd and Jason Calacanis to discuss LP doubts around GPs marking startups (2:43), LP portfolio construction (13:44), secondary strategies (19:57), Keith Rabois returning to Khosla Ventures (35:15), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) David Weisburd hosts Michael Kim and Jason Calacanis to dive into the world of VCs, LPs and GPs
(2:43) Exploring the doubts LPs may have about how VCs are marking startups
(7:51) Jason's strategy as an LP in funds and the search for a universal gold standard in LP benchmarks
(10:14) Why LPs might be incentivized to allow markups from GPs
(12:49) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at http://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(13:44) LP portfolio management best practices
(19:57) Evaluating different GP strategies for secondary deals
(24:37) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://www.devsquad.com/twist
(25:44 ) Comparing "idealistic" and "pragmatic" fund manager archetypes. what the right number is for a founder to sell in secondary
(33:39) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
(35:15) Breaking down Keith Rabois leaving Founders Fund to return to Khosla Ventures
(44:52) Addressing the challenges and responsibilities of starting a new firm
(48:08) Bill Ackman’s crusades, how LPs look at backing outspoken GPs
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Check out:
Cendana Capital: https://www.cendanacapital.com/
10X Capital: https://www.10xcapital.com/
*
Thanks to our partners:
(12:49) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at http://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(24:37) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://www.devsquad.com/twist
(33:39) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at http://www.openphone.com/twist
*
X:
https://twitter.com/MKRocks
https://twitter.com/DWeisburd
https://twitter.com/Jason
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Gusto is easy online payroll, benefits, and HR built for modern small businesses. Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://www.Gusto.com/twist
The Paintbrush Loan is the earliest startup financing on the internet. No pitch deck, no business plan, no minimum time in business, and no warm intros. Plus, you get to keep your equity. Visit http://www.getpaintbrush.com to see if you qualify for a $50K startup loan in less than 2 minutes.
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to https://www.Squarespace.com/twist for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
*
Today’s show:
Dara Khosrowshahi joins Bill Gurley, Brad Gerstner, and Jason Calacanis to discuss his initial reservations about joining Uber and how he overcame them (14:57), the early magic of Uber that captivated investors (22:36), a deep dive into Uber's future plans (45:50), and much more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Dara Khosrowshahi joins Bill Gurley, Brad Gerstner, & Jason Calacanis to discuss all things Uber
(2:41) Setting the stage for Uber entering 2024
(4:52) Untold parts of Uber's story
(09:38) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://www.Gusto.com/twist
(11:38) Bill Gurley discusses Dara's selection as CEO
(14:57) Dara's initial reservations about joining Uber and how he overcame them
(20:57) Dara’s discomfort in the free-money environment of ZIRP
(21:43) Paintbrush - Visit http://www.getpaintbrush.com to see if you qualify for a $50K startup loan in less than 2 minutes
(22:36) Exploring the early magic of Uber that captivated investors
(26:27) How valuations impact founder mindset
(30:49) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/twist
(32:17) Discussing the relevance of secondaries in the near future
(35:02) Breaking down some Uber myths and Dara’s focus on drivers
(45:50) A deep dive into Uber's future plans
(51:31) Uber’s strategy with upselling as AI enters the conversation
(58:04) Bill Gurley on joining Zillow’s board and how innovation is needed in the real estate industry
(1:05:27) Brad Gerstner on markets
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Check out Uber: https://www.uber.com
*
LINKS:
Silicon Valley clip referenced:
https://twitter.com/StephNass/status/1745132141652877788
*
Thanks to our partners:
(09:38) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://www.Gusto.com/twist
(21:43) Paintbrush - Visit http://www.getpaintbrush.com to see if you qualify for a $50K startup loan in less than 2 minutes
(30:49) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/twist
*
X:
https://twitter.com/Jason
https://twitter.com/dkhos
https://twitter.com/altcap
https://twitter.com/bgurley
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Scalable Path. Want to speed up your product development without breaking the bank? Since 2010, Scalable Path has helped over 300 companies hire deeply vetted engineers in their time zone. Visit http://www.scalablepath.com/twist to get 20% off your first month.
Northwest Registered Agent. When starting your business, it's important to use a service that will actually help you. Northwest Registered Agent is that service. They'll form your company fast, give you the documents you need to open a business bank account, and even provide you with mail scanning and a business address to keep your personal privacy intact. Visit http://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist to get a 60% discount on your next LLC.
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at http://www.vanta.com/twist
*
Today’s show:
Jon Miller, CEO and Founder of halcyon joins Jason to discuss how ransomware attackers get away with it and stay anonymous (6:12), hacker markets, bounties, tools, and AI's role (16:20), proactive measures for startups to safeguard themselves (34:42), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jon from Halcyon joins host Jason.
(2:52) Delving into the renaissance of ransomware.
(6:12) How ransomware attackers get away with it and stay anonymous.
(8:27) Strategies for counteraction and policy implications.
(10:10) Scalable Path - Get 20% off your first month at http://www.scalablepath.com/twist
(11:31) 2023 ransomware attacks on MGM and Caesar's in Las Vegas.
(13:52) Halcyon's endpoint agent: a solution to thwart threats.
(16:20) Exploring hacker markets, bounties, tools, and AI's role.
(19:57) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at http://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(21:55) The effectiveness of multi-factor authentication and strong passwords.
(22:49) Comparing financial vs. espionage attacks and the Colonial Pipeline event.
(29:26) The escalating danger for companies and the Uber cyber attack.
(31:27) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(32:35) AI and quantum computing: new frontiers for hackers.
(34:42) Proactive measures for startups to safeguard themselves.
(37:08) Growing hacker sophistication in places like China, North Korea and Iran.
(41:00) How the USA ranks in the world with cybersecurity and computer hacking.
(43:41) Your privacy is an illusion and a look at the information available on TikTok.
(48:01) The biggest threat that keeps Jon up at night.
(50:36) American Power Grid Vulnerabilities and ways to be prepared.
*
Check out halcyon: https://www.halcyon.ai
*
Thanks to our partners:
(10:10) Scalable Path - Get 20% off your first month at http://www.scalablepath.com/twist
(19:57) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at http://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(31:27) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
*
Follow Jon:
X: https://twitter.com/HalcyonAi
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonmillerhalcyon
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Nuts.com is offering new customers a free gift with purchase and free shipping on orders of $29 or more at http://www.Nuts.com/twist
Ketone-IQ is a clean energy boost without sugar or caffeine. Get 30% off your first subscription order of Ketone-IQ at http://hvmn.com/TWIST
Coda is the all-in-one doc for teams. And they introduced an AI-powered assistant to take the BUSY out of the WORK! Get started for free at coda.io/twist!
*
Today’s show:
Sunny Madra joins Jason to demo an AI-driven room decorator (9:24), a website that uses AI to design and deliver clothing from concept to completion (26:57), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Sunny Madra joins Jason
(1:37) Jason and Sunny discuss http://podcastai.com
(7:54) Nuts.com - Get a free gift with purchase and free shipping on orders of $29 or more at http://www.Nuts.com/twist
(9:24) Demo 1: Roomreinvented - Submit a photo of your room and specify your desired decor or choose from presets
(19:41) Ketone-IQ - Get 30% off your first subscription order of Ketone-IQ at http://hvmn.com/TWIST
(20:54) Demo 2: FaceID Plus - Upgrade stock photos with enhanced features
(26:57) Demo 3: Pixite - Create clothing designs using generative AI, then purchase them
(31:38) Coda - Get started for free at https://coda.io/twist
(33:04) Demo 4: SDXL Turbo (Stable Diffusion Clipdrop) - Realtime image generation
(40:14) Demo 5: Storia Lab - AI-assisted image editing
(46:10) Final Demos: Open Motion Lab and DreaMoving
*
LINKS:
https://melengo.com/showroom
https://www.semrush.com/website/youtube.com/overview/
https://www.roomreinvented.com/
https://huggingface.co/spaces/multimodalart/Ip-Adapter-FaceID
https://pixite.ai/
https://clipdrop.co/stable-diffusion-turbo
https://lab.storia.ai/
https://huggingface.co/spaces/OpenMotionLab/MotionGPT
https://huggingface.co/spaces/jiayong/Dreamoving
http://clipdrop.co/
*
Follow Sunny
X: https://twitter.com/sundeep
Check out: https://www.definitive.io/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at openphone.com/twist
DevSquad. Most dev agencies only offer developers. Why? Because product management is hard. Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist.
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
*
Today’s show:
Bill Gurley, Brad Gerstner, and Jason Calacanis join David Weisburd to discuss the market downturn's impact on startups, including shutdowns and shifting investment strategies (1:29). They also debate the AI boom (54:50), chatbots' future potential and hype (1:01:11), and which tech giants may perform best or worst in 2024 (1:20:32).
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) David Weisburd hosts Bill Gurley, Brad Gerstner, & Jason Calacanis to discuss the state of tech markets
(1:29) Startup shutdowns in 2023 vs dotcom crash
(3:52) Perspective on current market from Bill Gurley
(7:52) Brad's outlook on startup shutdowns continuing in 2024
(11:48) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://openphone.com/twist
(13:16) Different investor perspectives based on investment stage
(16:47) Altimeter's recent investing activity
(25:32) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist
(26:30) Reflecting on past IPOs and paths to building businesses for growth
(36:40) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/twist
(38:07) State of Series B/C deals in 2023 vs 2021 peak
(42:42) Why now is a great time to start a company
(47:17) Jason's theories for success in venture
(49:42) Abundance of technical talent in Silicon Valley and impact of AI on company size and competition
(54:50) AI investments in 2024
(1:01:11) Launguage models raising large rounds quickly and the potential for LLMs to hit a ceiling soon
(1:05:18) The best case for Meta being a leader in AI and Apple's position
(1:08:55) Importance of voice recognition for AI interfaces, challenges of enabling transactions via AI, and consumers choosing services via AI
(1:20:32) Picks for best and worst performing tech giants in 2024
*
LINKS:
Unicorn Investors article: https://news.crunchbase.com/venture/top-unicorn-investors-eoy-2023/
Bill Gurley's Above the Crowd article: https://abovethecrowd.com/2011/05/24/all-revenue-is-not-created-equal-the-keys-to-the-10x-revenue-club/
*
Follow David
X: https://twitter.com/DWeisburd
David's Podcast: https://limitedpartnerpodcast.com/
*
Follow Brad
X: https://twitter.com/altcap
*
Follow Bill
X: https://twitter.com/bgurley
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
MEV. Tired of the dev shop rollercoaster? Mev is your reliable technical partner, offering a well-established software development process designed to consistently deliver unparalleled value to their clients. Get $30,000 off your first three months at http://www.mev.com/twist
Northwest Registered Agent. When starting your business, it's important to use a service that will actually help you. Northwest Registered Agent is that service. They'll form your company fast, give you the documents you need to open a business bank account, and even provide you with mail scanning and a business address to keep your personal privacy intact. Visit http://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist to get a 60% discount on your next LLC.
The Paintbrush Loan is the earliest startup financing on the internet. No pitch deck, no business plan, no minimum time in business, and no warm intros. Plus, you get to keep your equity. Visit http://www.getpaintbrush.com to see if you qualify for a $50K startup loan in less than 2 minutes.
*
Today’s show:
Cecilia joins Jason for an in-depth discussion about the New York Times versus OpenAI case, delving into the intricacies of fair use and analyzing the Fair Use Test (6:07), examining the legal complexities surrounding data scraping for Large Language Models (28:21), exploring possible ramifications of this legal confrontation between these titans (40:06), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Cecilia Joins Jason
(2:44) Cecilia’s Background in Law
(3:44) Jumping into the case of NY Times vs OpenAI.
(6:07) Exploring Fair Use legal tests
(11:57) MEV - Get $30,000 off your first three months at http://www.mev.com/twist
(13:50) The case of Roy Orbison vs Two Live Crew and the music industry’s rules on fair use.
(19:04) Picking apart the defense of attribution.
(22:22) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at http://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(24:43) Fair Use Test: Factors two and three
(28:21) Legal challenges in data scraping for LLMs
(32:40) Paintbrush - Visit http://www.getpaintbrush.com to see if you qualify for a $50K startup loan in less than 2 minutes
(34:19) The fourth and final factor in the Fair Use Test.
(40:06) Potential outcomes of NY Times vs OpenAI case
(47:04) Google vs Java and legal discussions on digital platforms
(51:49) Jason shares a possible solution to this case and how the subscription wall could change things.
(57:54) Cecilia’s Grinch images on X
(1:02:22) Legal viewpoint regarding commercial vs non-commercial use.
(1:04:14) Summarizing where all this is going with the NY Times and OpenAI trial.
(1:12:18) Reviewing the market-based solution to this case.
*Check out GC AI: https://getgc.ai
Website: ceciliaziniti.com
Check out Ziniti Law: https://www.zinitilaw.com/
Check out Cecilia’s Maven Course here: https://maven.com/ceciliaz
*
Thanks to our partners:
(11:57) MEV - Get $30,000 off your first three months at http://www.mev.com/twist
(22:22) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC athttp://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(32:40) Paintbrush - Visit http://www.getpaintbrush.com to see if you qualify for a $50K startup loan in less than 2 minutes
*
Follow Cecilia
X: https://twitter.com/CeciliaZin
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ceciliaziniti/*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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NetSuite. Once your business gets to a certain size the cracks start to emerge. Things you used to do in a day take a week. You deserve a customized solution - and that's NetSuite. Learn more when you download NetSuite’s popular KPI Checklist - absolutely free, at NetSuite.com/twist
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at vanta.com/twist
*
Today’s show:
Jason and Sunny make a bunch of predictions and bet $1000 on each for the upcoming year in AI.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Sunny Madra joins Jason to make some 2024 AI bets
(4:46) Bet 1: There will be a top 100 song created by AI
(10:22) Power dynamics in the music industry and its intersection with AI
(13:01) Miro - Sign up for a free account at https://miro.com/startups
(14:34) Bet 2: AI will be capable of replicating Jason doing a TWiST Segment without listeners noticing
(18:51) Bet 3: There will be an AI-generated Pixar short that has made it into mainstream
(27:46) NetSuite - Download your free KPI Checklist at http://netsuite.com/twist
(29:06) Bets 4 and 5: We see a small model deployed locally on an iPhone/Android
(39:31) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(49:34) Bet 6: A multimodal model will be #1 by usage, AND open-source multimodal will beat out closed models
(52:00) LLaVA: Large Language and Vision Assistant
(58:04) The potential implications of the New York Times lawsuit
(1:10:01) OpenAI's financial success, copyright lawsuits, and the potential of Disney and the New York Times in AI
*
LINKS:
Midjourney: https://www.tiktok.com/@controllaxyz/video/7319184981987839263?_r=1&_t=8igobwQ1dzq
AI Drake: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NhVuQ06tO3M
AI Spongebob: https://twitter.com/Teridax/status/1741205766046888149
AI Pixar: https://twitter.com/eyishazyer/status/1741418522448986492
TinyLlama: https://huggingface.co/TinyLlama/TinyLlama-1.1B-Chat-v1.0
Llava: https://llava-vl.github.io/
Suno AI: https://www.suno.ai/
*
Follow Sunny
X: https://twitter.com/sundeepCheck out Definitive Intelligence: https://www.definitive.io/
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…Curotec. Are you one of those companies that knows you need to be using AI, but you're not even sure where to start? Well then you need Curotec. They are AI experts, and they're offering TWiST listeners an AI Strategy Roadmap tailored to your business for $5000. That's 50% off the normal cost just for telling them we sent you. Check out http://www.curotec.com/twist and get $5000 off!
Northwest Registered Agent. When starting your business, it's important to use a service that will actually help you. Northwest Registered Agent is that service. They'll form your company fast, give you the documents you need to open a business bank account, and even provide you with mail scanning and a business address to keep your personal privacy intact. Visit http://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist to get a 60% discount on your next LLC.
Masterworks. The first company allowing investors exposure into the blue-chip artwork asset class. TWIST listeners can skip the waitlist by going to https://www.masterworks.com/twist and using promo code TWIST.
*
Today’s show:
Lon Harris sits down with Jason to examine product-market fit and market-pull and their role in McDonalds' success (21:11), the importance of complementary skill sets between founders within any startup.(32:41), the path of doubt, fear and uncertainty that founders experience (45:29), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Lon Harris joins Jason
(3:35) Lon brings us quick hits on the film The Founder.
(9:30) Lon shares his admiration for the film
(10:16) Jason discovered the film through a curious link with Mark Knopfler.
(12:02) Curotec - Check out http://www.curotec.com/twist and get $5000 off
(16:00) Delving into the McDonalds' story
(17:47) Discussion on a common entrepreneurial revelation: efficiency and customer focus
(21:11) Examining product-market fit and market-pull in "The Founder" and its role in McDonalds' success.
(24:09) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at http://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(25:36) Building a series of innovations will create enormous value.
(27:35) Ray Kroc takeaway: the pursuit of relentless self-improvement on the way to his one big win.
(32:41) The importance of complimentary skill sets between founders within any startup.
(34:25) Masterworks - Skip the waitlist to invest in fine art at https://www.masterworks.com/twist
(35:43) Exploring strengths and criticisms of the franchise model.
(41:36) The role of spouses in startup formation
(45:29) The path of doubt, fear and uncertainty that founders experience before any winning.
(49:54) Lessons around deal-making and negotiation.
(1:00:07) The power struggle between the McDonald brothers and Ray Kroc
(1:02:43) Discussing the significance of equity and stock ownership in business
(1:08:26) Ray Kroc’s brilliance came from his power to observe value and opportunity.
(1:16:51) Business Breakdown Awards for “The Founder”
*
Thanks to our partners:
(12:02) Curotec - Check out http://www.curotec.com/twist and get $5000 off
(24:09) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at http://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(34:25) Masterworks - Skip the waitlist to invest in fine art at https://www.masterworks.com/twist
*
Follow Lon:
X: https://twitter.com/Lons
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers, get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://www.Lemon.io/twist
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
*
Today’s show:
Redfin’s CEO Glenn Kelman joins Jason to discuss essential tips for entering the market (4:55), hacking the system with concepts like “developer homes” and “accessory dwelling units” (22:55), finding happiness and success within simpler goals (28:40), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Glenn Kelman, CEO of Redfin, joins host Jason.
(2:13) Residential Real Estate Market: Current Trends and Analysis.
(4:55) First-Time Home Buyers: Essential Tips for Entering the Market.
(8:28) The dire need for building homes and other creative solutions to the housing crisis.
(10:21) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://www.Lemon.io/twist
(11:46) Looking at solutions for loans for builders and embracing the novel idea of taxing unused land.
(17:06) The second home phenomenon and it’s impact on the overall market.
(21:24 ) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
(22:55) Hacking the system with concepts like “developer homes” and “accessory dwelling units”
(25:31) Redfin’s success and Glenn learning about what really matters to their customers.
(28:40) Simplifying your business and getting rid of side quests.
(32:27) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
(33:55) Remote Work Dynamics: Measuring Productivity and Sustaining Company Culture.
*
Check out Redfin: https://www.redfin.com/
*
Thanks to our partners:
Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://www.Lemon.io/twist
Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST
OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist
*
Articles and Links from this episode:
- https://techcrunch.com/2020/10/15/founders-hacker-hype-homes-remote-work/?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAFUxPOXc4AHnjptN6dxkwFgpZ0kvPL_gTJ1uMicNRJwwtbQbuS1P0AI0MbDZzGawLNTArPSTT6VrWbByv-AyGXGWF_mkTdLG6eBSgiTrJPpqyBvY1y-GZoAE4xzQdq9v8ciP0VfQpKcSr-acjKYZEdwlc0XZV2lP6CeOb9I_QqXl
- https://www.samara.com/
- https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2023/05/21/adu-granny-flat-california-housing-crisis/
- https://www.forbes.com/sites/everettpotter/2021/06/27/pacaso-disrupting-vacation-home-ownership/?sh=25feeca8693a
- https://www.businessinsider.com/tony-hsieh-las-vegas-trailer-park-2017-5
*
Glenn’s Past Episodes on TWiST:
- Check out Episode E1616: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aGIqjrbbllQ
- Check out Episode E1405: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VqkrAX4thIY
- Check out Episode E1261: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fJX1lFphY58
*
Follow Glenn:
X: https://twitter.com/glennkelman
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glennkelman
•
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at vanta.com/twist
Gusto is easy online payroll, benefits, and HR built for modern small businesses. Get three months free when you run your first payroll at Gusto.com/twist.
Northwest Registered Agent. When starting your business, it's important to use a service that will actually help you. Northwest Registered Agent is that service. They'll form your company fast, give you the documents you need to open a business bank account, and even provide you with mail scanning and a business address to keep your personal privacy intact. Visit http://northwestregisteredagent.com/twist to get a 60% discount on your next LLC.
*
Today’s show:
FCC commissioner Brendan Carr joins Jason to discuss the revocation of Starlink's $900 million FCC subsidy (2:41), the satellite internet race (15:00), concern over TikTok's connections to the CCP (29:00), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr joins Jason
(2:41) The FCC's decision to revoke Starlink's subsidy and its implications
(6:00) Consumer experience and reliability of Starlink's service
(9:50) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(8:01) The digital divide, subsidies for rural areas, and the transition from implicit to explicit subsidies
(10:55) Analysis of consumer behavior and potential consequences of the FCC's decision
(15:00) The government's broadband initiative, Amazon's position in the satellite internet race, and the Biden administration's relationship with Elon Musk
(21:33) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://gusto.com/twist
(23:03) The emergence of 5G, the potential impact of more satellite internet providers, and China's global internet provider ambitions
(29:00) TikTok's influence, possible manipulation, and the federal government's handling of it(34:33) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at http://northwestregisteredagent.com/twist(35:32) 2023 is the prime time to start a company - don't let your million-dollar idea collect dust! Go to https://www.founder.university/ to apply today!
*
Check out E1509: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EFDN3vUB9kU
*
Links:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Belt_and_Road_Initiative
https://www.cfr.org/backgrounder/chinas-massive-belt-and-road-initiative
https://www.internetforall.gov/programs
https://www.businessinsider.com/spacex-rocket-blast-craters-started-fire-incinerated-land-crabs-report-2023-8#:~:text=SpaceX rocket explosion left craters,blue land crabs%2C" report says&text=The environmental damage caused by,explosion in April shocked officials
https://wpde.com/news/nation-world/ftc-wants-elon-musk-to-release-identities-of-all-journalists-who-were-given-access-to-twitter-files
https://www.theverge.com/2022/8/29/23327765/tesla-nlrb-ruling-union-busting-black-shirt-policy
*
Follow Brendan: https://twitter.com/BrendanCarrFC
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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*
Today’s show:
Steven Berlin Johnson joins Jason to demo Google’s NotebookLM, a new AI-powered research assistant he helped create at Google Labs. They dive into Steven’s journey to Google Labs (1:28), NotebookLM's unique features (14:09), the rights of authors in the digital age (40:22), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Author Steven Berlin Johnson joins Jason
(1:28) Early experiences with the internet and Google’s Project Starline
(8:01) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist
(9:00) The significance of document organization, the concept and features of "sources" in NotebookLM, and the impact on writing(14:09) Steven demos Google NotebookLM
(28:06) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(29:36) Steven’s NotebookLM demo continued
(33:47) Jason showcases how he utilizes NotebookLM for TWiST's Business Breakdowns segment
(38:56) Fitbod - Get 25% off at https://fitbod.me/twist
(40:22) The rights of authors in the digital age
(52:01) Superintelligence and the trajectory of language models
*
Links:https://stevenberlinjohnson.com/writing-at-the-speed-of-thought-21dfb7f689e4https://stevenberlinjohnson.com/good-ideas-the-four-minute-version-7e7856e69621https://www.wired.com/story/googles-notebooklm-ai-ultimate-writing-assistant/
*
Follow Steven: https://twitter.com/stevenbjohnsonCheck out Steven’s website: https://stevenberlinjohnson.com/Check out Steven’s podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/american-innovations/id1370092284
•
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Nuts.com is offering new customers a free gift with purchase and free shipping on orders of $29 or more at http://www.Nuts.com/twist
Northwest Registered Agent. When starting your business, it's important to use a service that will actually help you. Northwest Registered Agent is that service. They'll form your company fast, give you the documents you need to open a business bank account, and even provide you with mail scanning and a business address to keep your personal privacy intact. Visit http://northwestregisteredagent.com/twist to get a 60% discount on your next LLC.
Curotec. Are you one of those companies that knows you need to be using AI, but you're not even sure where to start? Well then you need Curotec. They are AI experts, and they're offering TWiST listeners an AI Strategy Roadmap tailored to your business for $5000. That's 50% off the normal cost just for telling them we sent you. Check out http://www.curotec.com/twist and get $5000 off!
*
Today’s show:
Avi Schiffman joins Jason to explore the origin story of Tab (3:05), concerns regarding wearables safety and security (13:00), Tab’s prototype and design choices (25:00), and much more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Avi Schiffmann of Tab AI joins Jason
(3:05) The origin story of Tab: building a mental model of who you are.
(6:01) Exploring what Tab can do and its hardware profile
(9:01) Avi Schiffmann's take on Apple's new wearable, Humane
(11:30) Nuts.com - Get a free gift with purchase and free shipping on orders of $29 or more at http://www.Nuts.com/twist
(13:00) In-depth discussion on wearables: safety, security, and continuous audio recording concerns.
(18:57) A showcase of Tab's supportive role featuring AI-driven insights and affirmations
(20:02) Avi Schiffmann's insights on achieving positive change through TAB's guidance
(20:54) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at http://northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(21:54) Comparing Avi's Tab with Rewind AI.
(25:00) Examining the Tab prototype and discussing the pendant design choice
(33:04) ****Curotec - Check out http://curotec.com/twist and get $5000 off
(34:29) Addressing the limitations of coaches, therapists, and the chatbot Pi, and how Tab sets itself apart
*
Thanks to our partners:
(11:30) Nuts.com - Get a free gift with purchase and free shipping on orders of $29 or more at http://www.Nuts.com/twist
(20:54) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at http://northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(33:04) ****Curotec - Check out http://curotec.com/twist and get $5000 off
Links to other TWiST episodes on wearables:
Oura CEO Tom Hale | E1812
https://youtu.be/RxaKWmPEcrk
Whoop CEO Will Ahmed | E1786
https://youtu.be/L-6FJQ7AuHY
Rewind AI’s Dan Siroker | E1828
https://youtu.be/lHBBCJUoD4w
*
Follow Avi:
X: https://twitter.com/avi_schiffmann
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
The Equinix Startup program offers a hybrid infrastructure solution for startups, including up to $100K in credits and personalized consultations and guidance from the Equinix team. Go to https://www.equinixstartups.com to apply today.
Gusto is easy online payroll, benefits, and HR built for modern small businesses. Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://www.Gusto.com/twist.
*
Today’s show:
Sunny Madra joins Jason to dive into the world of AI-generated characters you can start a relationship with (3:46), take a look at Pika and its stunning AI-animated video clips (35:29), convert Adele’s voice into John Mayer’s (46:26), and much more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Sunny Madra joins Jason
(3:46) Diving into the viral post from Digi.ai that builds animated characters you can start a relationship with
(12:31) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/twist
(14:02) Digging deeper into the concept of an AI companion and societal effects
(22:22) Equinix - Join the Equinix Startup Program for up to $100K in credits and much more at https://deploy.equinix.com/startups
(23:29) How should conversations with AI be monitored, and the hot topic around confidentiality and security.
(25:59) Sunny demos Vercel which generates and shares REACT code snippets.
(33:58) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at Gusto.com/twist.
(35:29) A look at Pika where AI generates stunning animated video clips from a simple prompt including a Jedi Bulldog from Sunny.
(46:26) Spaces can convert Adele’s singing into the voice of John Mayer!
(50:27) Let’s hear an AI remix of Earl Ives “A Holly Jolly Christmas” with a sprinkle of Lil’ Jon.
(58:02) Sunny demos Outfit Anyone.
*
Check out Digi.ai: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.digiapp.ai
Check out Vercel: https://v0.dev/
Check out Pika: https://pika.art/
Check out Spaces: https://huggingface.co/spaces/amphion/singing_voice_conversion
Check out Outfit Anyone: https://huggingface.co/spaces/HumanAIGC/OutfitAnyone
*
Thanks to our partners:
(12:31) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/twist
(22:22) Equinix - Join the Equinix Startup Program for up to $100K in credits and much more at https://www.deploy.equinix.com/startups
(33:58) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://www.Gusto.com/twist.
*
Follow Sunny:
X: https://twitter.com/sundeep
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sundeepm
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Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at http://www.vanta.com/twist
.Tech Domains has a new program called startups.tech, where you can get your startup featured on This Week in Startups. Go to http://www.startups.tech/jason to find out how!
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Today’s show:
Jason and Kelly Schricker introduce the Founder University pitch competition (1:11), then we hear from Abe at GolfGolf (7:16), Mircea from Cicada (15:25), Spencer of dotflo (27:16), and Shreyas from Clinic Assist (34:54). Finally, Jason awards a $25K investment (34:54), and much more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(1:11) Jason and Kelly Schricker introduce the Founder University pitch competition
(7:16) Abe pitches GolfGolf
(13:31) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(15:25) Mircea pitches Cicada
(22:14) .Tech Domains - Apply to get your startup featured on This Week in Startups at http://www.startups.tech/jason
(27:16) Spencer pitches dotflo
(32:41) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://openphone.com/twist
(34:54) Shreyas pitches Clinic Assist
(43:52) Jason awards a $25K investment
*
Check out the pitch competitors here:
GolfGolf - golfgolf.tech
Cicada - cicadamusic.net
Dotflo - dotflo.co
Clinic Assist - clinicassist.ai
*
Thanks to our partners:
(13:31) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at http://www.vanta.com/twist
(22:14) .Tech Domains - Apply to get your startup featured on This Week in Startups at http://www.startups.tech/jason
(32:41) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://openphone.com/twist
•
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
Today’s show:
Kruze COO, Scott Orn, joins Jason to discuss best practices for early stage startups to prepare for and execute successful board meetings. The two dive into the reasons VCs want governance through board meetings (00:56), what should be in a full board packet (6:51), formal things investors look for (11:10), and much more!
Timestamps:
(0:00) Kruze COO, Scott Orn, joins Jason(00:56) The reasons VCs seek governance in startups and key tips for developing a standardized board presentation(6:51) Building a startup financial package and the importance of presenting a financial flash page at the start of a board meeting.(11:10) Essential factors investors consider during a board meeting(15:08) The most common question regarding in-depth operational metrics(20:51) Examining R&D and engineering support expenses in the calculation of the cost of goods soldCheck out Kruze: https://kruzeconsulting.comFollow Scott: https://twitter.com/scottorn
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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Today’s show:
Jerry Colonna joins Jason in person for a philosophical dialogue about the search for meaning as an entrepreneur, drawing on their multi-decade friendship. They explore Jerry's personal journey from venture capitalist to founder coach (11:08), the challenges leaders face as startups evolve (40:03), how Jerry helps entrepreneurs transition from founder to CEO (28:54), and much more!
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jerry Colonna joins Jason(1:14) Jason's early internet days and first taste of money/power(10:08) Corient - Speak with one of Corient's wealth management advisors today at http://corient.com(11:08) Jerry's journey as a venture capitalist during the peak Dot-com era to founder coach(18:32) What pushed Jerry to his limits, and how did Jerry overcome his depression(23:36) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist(24:56) Jerry's Book "Reboot" and what Jerry sees drives founders(28:54) How to transition from a founder to a CEO(38:31) Coda - Get started for free at https://coda.io/twist(40:03) Finding the right motivation and the steps to being an enlightened leader(57:01) Acute issues that founders contact Jerry about*Check out Reboot: https://www.reboot.io/reboot-leadership-and-the-art-of-growing-up/Check out reunion: https://www.reboot.io/reunion-leadership-and-the-longing-to-belong/
*
Follow Jerry
X: https://twitter.com/jerrycolonna
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerry-colonna-reboot
*
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X: https://twitter.com/jason
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Miro. Working remotely doesn’t mean you need to feel disconnected from your team. Miro is an online whiteboard that brings teams together - anytime, anywhere. Go to https://www.miro.com/startups to sign up for a FREE account with unlimited team members.
The Equinix Startup program offers a hybrid infrastructure solution for startups, including up to $100K in credits and personalized consultations and guidance from the Equinix team. Go to https://deploy.equinix.com/startups to apply today.
NetSuite. Once your business gets to a certain size the cracks start to emerge. Things you used to do in a day take a week. You deserve a customized solution - and that's NetSuite. Learn more when you download NetSuite’s popular KPI Checklist - absolutely free, at http://www.netsuite.com/twist
*
Today’s show:
Steve Ruiz, Founder of tldraw, joins Jason to discuss how Make Real went viral just one week after a recent funding round (5:35), diving into the debate of creating consciousness with AI (20:41), highlighting tldraw's versatility with multiple demonstrations including creating a stopwatch from simple sketches (24:21), and much more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Steve Ruiz, Founder of tldraw, joins Jason.
(2:26) The story behind tldraw and exploring its origins.
(5:35) Discussing tldraw's business and how Make Real went viral just one week after a recent venture round.
(6:46) Understanding “Open Core”
(7:59) Demos: tldraw and Make Real, including the creation of a color picker.
(12:01) Miro - Sign up for a free account at https://www.miro.com/startups
(14:42) Further exploring tldraw demos using Iterations
(16:18) How multimodal AI responds to different instructions.
(20:41) Are we creating consciousness in AI or merely simulating it?
(21:25) Equinix - Join the Equinix Startup Program for up to $100K in credits and much more at https://www.deploy.equinix.com/startups
(24:21) More demos! Creating a stopwatch application with varied approaches.
(31:21) NetSuite - Download your free KPI Checklist at http://www.netsuite.com/twist
(32:42) The future of tldraw and its potential to integrate across various AI models.
*
Check out tldraw: https://www.tldraw.com
Thank you to our partners:
(12:01) Miro - Sign up for a free account at https://www.miro.com/startups
(21:25) Equinix - Join the Equinix Startup Program for up to $100K in credits and much more at https://www.deploy.equinix.com/startups
(31:21) NetSuite - Download your free KPI Checklist at http://www.netsuite.com/twist
*
Follow Steve
X: https://twitter.com/steveruizok
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-ruiz-61a150239?originalSubdomain=uk
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Embroker. The Embroker Startup Insurance Program helps startups secure the most important types of insurance at a lower cost and with less hassle. Save up to 20% off of traditional insurance today at Embroker.com/twist. While you’re there, get an extra 10% off using offer code TWIST.Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.Northwest Registered Agent. When starting your business, it's important to use a service that will actually help you. Northwest Registered Agent is that service. They'll form your company fast, give you the documents you need to open a business bank account, and even provide you with mail scanning and a business address to keep your personal privacy intact. Visit http://northwestregisteredagent.com/twist to get a 60% discount on your next LLC.
*
Today’s show:
Sunny Madra joins Jason to demo Google’s NotebookLM (5:00), Bard’s new capabilities after Gemini upgrade (17:13), Mixtral’s 8x7B model (53:59), and much more!
*
TIMESTAMPS
(0:00) Sunny Madra joins Jason(5:00) Sunny demos Google NotebookLM(11:22) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist(17:13) Bard's Gemini upgrade and Google's branding challenges(24:45) Ars Technica's experimental test bed(28:17) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/twist(29:14) Unpacking Bard's enhanced capabilities(38:44) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at http://northwestregisteredagent.com/twist(39:50) Evaluating Gemini, Its market position, and the GPT Landscape(53:59) Sunny demos Mixtral's 8x7B model(1:07:38) Sunny creates an AI influencer using Juggernaut XL model in Google Colab(1:18:24) Sunny demos Magnific’s powerful image upscaler*LINKS:https://arstechnica.com/ai/2023/12/chatgpt-vs-google-bard-round-2-how-does-the-new-gemini-model-fare/https://twitter.com/sundarpichai/status/1732433036929589301https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K4pX1VAxaAIhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kna9E_3kFF0&list=PL24nOpPUQlbYd1U349UDH2rrPaWWreM79&index=3https://notebooklm.google.com/?pli=1poe.comhttps://magnific.ai/upgrade/
*
Follow Sunny: https://twitter.com/sundeep
*
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Northwest Registered Agent. When starting your business, it's important to use a service that will actually help you. Northwest Registered Agent is that service. They'll form your company fast, give you the documents you need to open a business bank account, and even provide you with mail scanning and a business address to keep your personal privacy intact. Visit http://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist to get a 60% discount on your next LLC.
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at https://www.vanta.com/twist
DevSquad. Most dev agencies only offer developers. Why? Because product management is hard. Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://www.devsquad.com/twist
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Today’s show:
ScOp’s Kevin O’Connor joins Jason (1:39), exploring the early days of the internet, its initial promise, rapid growth, and the recent pivotal changes brought on by AI (1:39). They also discuss tactics for building in a declining market, the emergence of “death-icorns” (19:30), what he looks for in founders (39:18), and much more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Jason welcomes Kevin O’Connor of ScOp Venture Capital.
(1:39) Exploring the early days of the internet, its initial promise, rapid growth, and the recent pivotal changes brought by AI.
(5:55) Discussing the impact and future prospects of AI as we approach 2024.
(8:41) Delving into the potential influence of AI on sectors like Hollywood and the music industry.
(10:03) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at http://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(11:11) Transitioning from founding companies to establishing a fund and supporting new startups.
(15:25) Examining the evolution of founding a company, market dynamics, and fluctuating trends since the 1990s.
(18:22) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(19:30) Tactics for building in a declining market, the emergence of “death-icorns,” and the pitfalls of debt-financed growth in unprofitable businesses.
(27:57) The pendulum swings back after “the great reshuffling of America” and the phenomenon of over-employment.
(29:53) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist
(33:13) Identifying unique opportunities in AI investments.
(36:50) Recounting a near acquisition of Kevin’s company Graphiq by Apple for Siri integration.
(39:18) What Kevin currently seeks in entrepreneurs before making an investment.
(47:35) Discussing current valuation trends and the competitive nature of losing deals in venture capital.
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Check out ScOp Venture Capital: https://www.scopvc.com
*
Follow Kevin:
X: https://twitter.com/kjpoconnor
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinoconnorsb
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
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*
Thanks to our partners:
(10:03) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at http://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(18:22) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(29:53) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://www.devsquad.com/twist
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
Jason chats with Scott Orn about founder salaries, discussing the trade-offs of starting a company, the importance of board-approved salaries, and equity. They also address gender disparities in founder salaries, managing personal expenses, and investor expectations.
*
(0:00) Scott Orn joins to discuss founder salaries
(2:25) Trade-offs of starting a company and how salaries increase with funding
(4:41) Role of builder founders and dangers of underpaying oneself
(8:05) Transitioning into entrepreneurship and managing side hustles
(10:03) Importance of board-approved founder salaries and discussing equity
(13:05) Gender disparities in founder salaries and efforts to close the gap
(15:52) Managing personal expenses and company accounts
(17:05) Leading by example and salary distribution within a company
(20:26) Investor expectations and high-value employees earning more than founders
*Check out Kruze: https://kruzeconsulting.com
Follow Scott: https://twitter.com/scottorn
*
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X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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LinkedIn Marketing. To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to http:/www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
Today’s show:
Blackshark.ai CEO Michael Putz joins Jason to discuss the necessity and vision behind creating a digital twin of our planet (3:22), why In-Q-Tel, the CIA’s venture arm, chose to invest in Blackshark.ai (14:59), the story and inspiration behind the name of Blackshark's new product, Orca Hunter (30:25), and much more!
*
TIMESTAMPS
(0:00) Jason welcomes Michael Putz, CEO of Blackshark.ai.
(2:40) What are the lessons learned in video game creation that inform creating a startup?
(3:22) The necessity and vision behind creating a digital twin of our planet
(8:24) Unraveling Blackshark's programming methods and learning algorithms.
(11:04) Arising Ventures - head to http://www.arisingventures.com/TWIST to learn more and connect with the team
(12:01) The modern approach to data training and insights from developing Microsoft’s Flight Simulator.
(14:59) Discussing why In-Q-Tel, the CIA’s venture arm, chose to invest in Blackshark.ai.
(15:41) A live demonstration of Blackshark's innovative new product, Orca Huntr.
(22:16) Masterworks - Skip the waitlist to invest in fine art at https://www.masterworks.com/twist
(27:16) Planet Labs and the amazing cadence of updated satellite imagery.
(30:25) The story and inspiration behind the name of Blackshark's new product, Orca Hunter.
(31:48) LinkedIn Marketing ****- Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(34:37) Delving into the Austrian perspective on the in-office versus remote work debate.
(36:53) Exploring how Blackshark’s team leverages AI for increased efficiency and effectiveness.
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp*Check out Blackshark.ai: https://blackshark.ai
*
Follow Michael:
X: https://twitter.com/blacksharkai
LinkedIn: https://at.linkedin.com/in/michaelputz
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis*
Thanks to our partners:(11:04) Arising Ventures - head to http://www.arisingventures.com/TWIST to learn more and connect with the team
(22:16) Masterworks - Skip the waitlist to invest in fine art at https://www.masterworks.com/twist
(31:48) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://www.claconnect.com/tech
House of Macadamias - Get a free month's supply of Macadamia Milk with any order at https://www.houseofmacadamias.com/twist by using code TWIST20!
.Tech Domains - Apply to get your startup featured on This Week in Startups at https://www.startups.tech/jason
Today’s show:
23andMe's Anne Wojcicki joins Jason for a deep dive on genome testing and healthcare. They cover the dramatic reduction in genome sequencing costs from billions to just $99 (3:15), the role of blood testing and sequencing in shaping 23andMe's health approach (27:02), the curious case of the venomous Gila monster (42:09), and much more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Anne Wojcicki of 23andMe joins Jason for an insightful discussion.
(1:28) Exploring the impact of 23andMe and the trend of genome sequencing for proactive health management.
(3:15) Tracing the dramatic reduction in genome sequencing costs from billions to just $99.
(10:58) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://www.claconnect.com/tech
(12:24) Discussing a pivotal moment in advancing our understanding of health and genetics.
(18:41) Strategies for integrating new health initiatives in the U.S. and international healthcare systems.
(22:26) House of Macadamias is the next big health trend! Get a free month's supply of Macadamia Milk with any order at https://www.houseofmacadamias.com/twist by using code TWIST20!
(23:54) Addressing the need for a paradigm shift in healthcare policies and incentive structures.
(27:02) The role of blood testing and exome sequencing in shaping 23andMe's comprehensive health approach.
(30:45) Embracing a holistic perspective in personal health and wellness.
(32:57) .Tech Domains has a new program called startups.tech, where you can get your startup featured on This Week in Startups. Go to http://www.startups.tech/jason to find out how!
(34:02) Emphasizing the significance of regular blood tests for health monitoring.
(41:55) A lesson in healthcare for everyone and the curious case of the venomous Gila monster.
(48:59) Connecting the dots between modern healthcare, science, and technology: A real-life 'choose-your-own-adventure'.
(52:39) Exploring the benefits of Lemonaid Health's acquisition by 23andMe.
(58:32) Anne Wojcicki reflects on her 17-year journey in the field and shares her vision for the future of health and genetics.
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Check out 23andMe: https://www.23andme.com
*
Follow Anne:
X: https://twitter.com/annewoj23
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annewojcicki
Follow Jason:
X: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thanks to our partners:
(10:58) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://www.claconnect.com/tech
(22:26) House of Macadamias is the next big health trend! Get a free month's supply of Macadamia Milk with any order at https://www.houseofmacadamias.com/twist by using code TWIST20!
(32:57) .Tech Domains has a new program called startups.tech, where you can get your startup featured on This Week in Startups. Go to http://www.startups.tech/jason to find out how!
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
Brave. If you’re building AI and search-based applications, train your models with the Brave Search API. Get started for free at brave.com/jason
Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers, get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
Today’s show:
Sunny Madra joins Jason to demo Figma FigJam (2:08), a product that generates images from real-time drawing (31:05), and more while discussing the implications of IP theft writ large.
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Sunny Madra joins Jason
(2:08) Sunny demos Figma’s FigJam
(9:43) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/twist
(10:40) Figma FigJam demo continued
(16:02) Jason shares his AI generated images and discusses how companies navigate copyright issues
(24:58) Brave - Try the Brave Search API at http://brave.com/jason
(26:12) Feedback and thoughts for FigJam
(31:05) Sunny demos Fal, an AI that gives generated images from real time drawing
(40:28) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(41:49) Sunny demos the Real-Time Latent Consistency Model
(47:01) Sunny demos Alibaba’s Animate Anyone
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Check out FigJam: https://help.figma.com/hc/en-us/articles/1500004362321-Guide-to-FigJam
Check out Fal: https://www.fal.ai/dynamic
Check out the hugging face video demo: https://huggingface.co/spaces/radames/Real-Time-Latent-Consistency-Model
Check out Animate Anyone: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8PCn5hLKNu4
*
Follow Sunny: https://twitter.com/sundeep
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at vanta.com/twist
Embroker. The Embroker Startup Insurance Program helps startups secure the most important types of insurance at a lower cost and with less hassle. Save up to 20% off of traditional insurance today at Embroker.com/twist. While you’re there, get an extra 10% off using offer code TWIST.
The Equinix Startup program offers a hybrid infrastructure solution for startups, including up to $100K in credits and personalized consultations and guidance from the Equinix team. Go to https://equinixstartups.com to apply today.
Today’s show:
DHH joins Jason to discuss a post-SaaS world and Once.com (2:29), the evolving landscape of remote work (21:31), navigating internal culture struggles at Basecamp (32:53), and much more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) DHH joins Jason
(2:29) David discusses his new SaaS alternative Once.com, which charges a one-time fee rather than a recurring subscription
(10:44) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(11:50) David's philosophy on copyrighting
(20:17) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(21:31) The evolving landscape of remote work
(31:46) Equinix - Join the Equinix Startup Program for up to $100K in credits and much more at https://equinixstartups.com
(32:53) The state of fundraising and DHH recounts Basecamp's internal culture struggles
(49:03) Should AI progress should be accelerated or slowed down?
(1:08:08) How willful exposure to hardship can build grit and resilience.
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Check out Once: https://once.com
*
Follow David:
https://twitter.com/dhh
https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-heinemeier-hansson-374b18221/
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Brave. If you’re building AI and search-based applications, train your models with the Brave Search API. Get started for free at brave.com/jason
Arising Ventures is a holding company that acquires tech startups facing setbacks. Arising Ventures knows what founders care about because they aren’t bankers, they are tech founders themselves! Go to http://www.arisingventures.com/TWIST
LinkedIn Jobs. A business is only as strong as its people, and every hire matters. Go to http://www.LinkedIn.com/TWIST to post your first job for free. Terms and conditions apply.
Today’s show:
Adept Co-Founder and CEO David Luan joins Jason to discuss his experience at OpenAI (2:45), demo Adept's AI-powered workflow builder (13:47), what facets of AI he is most excited about, what keeps him motivated (32:33), and more!
*
Timestamps:
(0:00) Adept founder and CEO David Luan joins Jason.
(2:45) David's experience at OpenAI and the evolution of deep learning
(5:22) DALL-E origins and its "a-ha moment"
(9:24) The next great well of AI training data
(11:21) Brave - Try the Brave Search API at http://www.brave.com/jason
(12:35) Adept's Northstar since day one
(13:47) Demos: showcasing the power of Adept AI
(15:52) The next battlefield for AI
(18:34) A look into Adept AI Experiments – a sandbox for AI enthusiasts
(20:46) Arising Ventures - head to http://www.arisingventures.com/TWIST to learn more and connect with the team
(21:51) How Adept aims to streamline job processes
(24:54) Strategies to outperform large competitors
(31:13) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at http://www.LinkedIn.com/TWIST
(32:33) What excites David about the future and motivates his daily efforts?
(36:29) The present and expected advancements in AI
*
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
*
Check out Adept AI: https://www.adept.ai
Check out Adept AI Experiments: https://www.adept.ai/blog/experiments
*
Follow David:https://twitter.com/jluan
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jluan
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Thanks to our partners:
(11:21) Brave - Try the Brave Search API at http://brave.com/jason
(20:46) Arising Ventures - head to http://www.arisingventures.com/TWIST to learn more and connect with the team
(31:13) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at http://www.LinkedIn.com/TWIST
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
*
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Miro. Working remotely doesn’t mean you need to feel disconnected from your team. Miro is an online whiteboard that brings teams together - anytime, anywhere. Go to https://miro.com/startups to sign up for a FREE account with unlimited team members.
Northwest Registered Agent. When starting your business, it's important to use a service that will actually help you. Northwest Registered Agent is that service. They'll form your company fast, give you the documents you need to open a business bank account, and even provide you with mail scanning and a business address to keep your personal privacy intact. Visit http://northwestregisteredagent.com/twist to get a 60% discount on your next LLC.
Nuts.com is offering new customers a free gift with purchase and free shipping on orders of $29 or more at http://www.Nuts.com/twist
Today’s show:
Induced AI CEO Aryan Sharma joins Jason to discuss the motivation behind Induced AI (3:20), how the product is being integrated into real-world applications (16:42), strategies for mitigating bad actors (32:16), and more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Induced AI CEO Aryan Sharma joins Jason
(3:20) The motivation behind Induced AI
(10:06) Miro - Sign up for a free account at https://miro.com/startups
(11:24) The role of Robotic Process Automation (RPA) and integration of LLMs
(16:42) Aryan demos Induced AI’s WorkFlow
(28:24) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at http://northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(29:31) The impact on business processing outsourcing
(32:16) Strategies for mitigating bad actors
(40:30) Nuts.com - Get a free gift with purchase and free shipping on orders of $29 or more at http://www.Nuts.com/twist
(44:17) Journey to Induced AI
*
Links:
https://proceedings.mlr.press/v70/shi17a/shi17a.pdfhttps://www.sap.com/products/technology-platform/process-automation/what-is-rpa.html
*
Check out: https://www.induced.ai/
*
Follow Aryan:
https://twitter.com/aryxnsharma
https://www.linkedin.com/in/aryan-sharma-2628aba2/
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at vanta.com/twist
Northwest Registered Agent. When starting your business, it's important to use a service that will actually help you. Northwest Registered Agent is that service. They'll form your company fast, give you the documents you need to open a business bank account, and even provide you with mail scanning and a business address to keep your personal privacy intact. Visit http://northwestregisteredagent.com/twist to get a 60% discount on your next LLC.
Today’s show:
Sunny Madra joins Jason to demo Bard’s YouTube summarizer (2:27), an iPhone app that draws apps (41:14), Stability’s Clipdrop (59:20), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Sunny Madra joins Jason
(2:27) Sunny demos Bard’s YouTube summarizer
(7:00) Jason's revamping his Substack! First topic; Jason's new ADD management framework: Automate, Deprecate, Delegate
(13:58) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/twist
(14:54) Bard’s YouTube summarizer demo continued
(27:09) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(29:09) Sunny demos tlDraw and discusses the evolution of low-code environments
(40:08) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at http://northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(41:14) Sunny showcases UIDraw, an app to draw and build a web app on your phone with AI
(46:57) Sunny demos Trace, a tool to design a UI via AI
(53:38) Sunny demos Runway TV
(59:20) Sunny demos Stability’s image editing tools, including Clipdrop
(1:05:18) Jason and Sunny’s AI predictions and bet
*
Links:
https://www.wired.com/story/inside-story-of-pong-excerpt/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vin_Scelsastabilityhttps://twitter.com/jsngr/status/1728848624048853442?s=42&t=79J_alIF_jrz1wn1s5pboQclipdrop
*
Check out:
https://www.trace.zip/https://www.runway.tv/https://makereal.tldraw.com/
*
Follow Sunny: https://twitter.com/sundeep
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
NetSuite. Once your business gets to a certain size the cracks start to emerge. Things you used to do in a day take a week. You deserve a customized solution - and that's NetSuite. Learn more when you download NetSuite’s popular KPI Checklist - absolutely free, at NetSuite.com/twist
LinkedIn Marketing. To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
Brave. If you’re building AI and search-based applications, train your models with the Brave Search API. Get started for free at brave.com/jason
Today’s show:
Sunny Madra and David Sacks join Jason to break down all the chaos of the past few days at OpenAI including why the situation is so unprecedented (17:46), the board’s failure (30:18), the impact on startups (43:34), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Recapping the chaotic past few days at OpenAI plus some immediate impacts from the fallout
(16:43) NetSuite - Download your free KPI Checklist at http://netsuite.com/twist
(17:46) David Sacks joins the show and explains why this situation is so unprecedented in Silicon Valley
(28:51) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(30:18) How the board could have handled this better, Sam Altman's misaligned incentives packages (or lack thereof)
(37:14) Silicon Valley's battle-tested standard structure, and why you shouldn't innovate on corporate structure
(42:20) Brave - Try the Brave Search API at http://brave.com/jason
(43:34) Impact on startups reliant on OpenAI's models, a brutal momentum killer for OpenAI
(50:39) Predictions: Return of the King? Mass Exodus? Something else?
*
Follow Sunny: https://twitter.com/sundeep
Follow Sacks: https://twitter.com/DavidSacks
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at vanta.com/twist
Lemon.io. Get access to Lemon Hire, a platform with more than 80,000 pre-vetted engineers that you can interview within 48 hours. Get $2000 off your first hire at http://lemon.io/hire today!
The Equinix Startup program offers a hybrid infrastructure solution for startups, including up to $100K in credits and personalized consultations and guidance from the Equinix team. Go to https://deploy.equinix.com/startups/
to apply today.
Today’s show:
Sunny Madra joins Jason for an emergency podcast! They break down the business implications of Altman leaving OpenAI (1:23), speculation around why he was fired (10:27), ongoing developments like Greg Brockman quitting, and more! (23:24)
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Sunny Madra goes live with Jason for an emergency Pod!
(1:23) Sam Altman ousted from OpenAI and Greg Brockman quits!
(6:44) The board’s accusations against Sam Altman
(10:27) Speculating “no conflict, no interest”
(12:16) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist(13:22) Sam's extraordinary deal-making, lack of OpenAI shares, and the possible impact from Humane launch
(23:24) The OpenAI and Microsoft relationship
(29:40) Lemon.io - Get $2000 off your first hire at http://lemon.io/hire
(30:49) More speculation and anonymous theories
(34:29) The impact of founder-led switching to not founder-led
(37:10) Equinix - Join the Equinix Startup Program for up to $100K in credits and much more at https://deploy.equinix.com/startups/
(38:30) Questions from live audience
(56:12) Final thoughts
*
Follow Sunny: https://twitter.com/sundeep
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to http://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
Masterworks. The first company allowing investors exposure into the blue-chip artwork asset class. TWIST listeners can skip the waitlist by going to https://masterworks.com/twist and using promo code TWIST.
Fitbod. Tired of doing the same workouts at the gym? Fitbod will build you personalized workouts that help you progress with every set. Get 25% off your subscription or try out the app for FREE when you sign up now at https://fitbod.me/twist.
Today’s show:
First, Jason interviews Krea CEO and Co-Founder Victor Perez, who demos Krea's creative suite, highlighting its unique blend of AI prompts and interactive design elements (2:40). Then, testRigor’s Artem Golubev breaks down how their AI-powered software helps businesses streamline QA processes (48:54).
Time stamps:
Time stamps:
(0:00) CEO and Co-Founder of Krea.ai join Jason
(2:40) Victor demos Krea’s real-time AI capabilities
(8:24) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/twist
(9:22) Startup culture at the Krea house, Krea’s wide range of users, and its unique approach: enabling precise control over object placement and evolving sketches into final products
(17:22) Future plans for video-to-video workflows, Victor’s background, Stable Diffusion’s capabilities, understanding the concept of 'weights' in AI
(26:03) Masterworks - Skip the waitlist to invest in fine art at https://www.masterworks.com/twist
(27:22) Debating copyright concerns and the state of training data in Stable Diffusion
(32:20) The challenges of the startup scene in Barcelona, trying the Blueprint diet
(36:32) Fitbod - Get 25% off at https://fitbod.me/twist
(38:00) Artem Golubev, CEO and Co-Founder of testRigor joins Jason and explains testRigor's AI-powered QA solution
(41:29) testRigor's AI approach: Streamlining software QA testing
(48:54) Examining the impact of AI on dev teams, and testRigor demo
*
Check out Krea: http://www.krea.ai
Check out testRigor: http://www.testrigor.com
*
Follow Victor:https://twitter.com/viccpoes
https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamvictorperez
Follow Artem:
https://twitter.com/artemtwtr
https://www.linkedin.com/in/agolubev
*
Thanks to our partners:
(8:24) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/twist
(17:24) Masterworks - Skip the waitlist to invest in fine art at https://www.masterworks.com/twist
(27:22) Fitbod - Get 25% off at https://fitbod.me/twist
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
Today’s show:
Kruze’s Scott Orn joins Jason to discuss navigating potential ERC fraud (00:45), expected year one spend for startups (11:54), importance of accounting from Day 1 (15:22), and more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Kruze’s Scott Orn joins Jason.
(0:45) Navigating Employee Retention Credit (ERC) and spotting fraud, and the importance of CPA expertise
(9:01) The difference between building software and R&D
(11:54) Expected year one spend for startups
(15:22) Importance of accounting from day 1
*
Check out Kruze: https://kruzeconsulting.com
*
Follow Scott:
https://twitter.com/scottorn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottorn
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
.Tech Domains has a new program called startups.tech, where you can get your startup featured on This Week in Startups. Go to startups.tech/jason to find out how!
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at vanta.com/twist
Arising Ventures is a holding company that acquires tech startups facing setbacks. Arising Ventures knows what founders care about because they aren’t bankers, they are tech founders themselves! Go to http://arisingventures.com/TWIST
Today’s show:
Forward CEO Adrian Aoun joins Jason to discuss how his startup creating the first AI doctor's office (13:55)! The two dive into how Forward's AI technology operates (15:55), the challenges with modern healthcare (9:52), and how Forward plans to revolutionize the healthcare service (40:36).
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Forward CEO Adrian Aoun joins Jason.
(1:46) VC in the Middle East and the lack of diligence in the last boom and bust cycle
(8:51) .Tech Domains - Apply to get your startup featured on This Week in Startups at https://startups.tech/jason
(9:52) Challenges in healthcare and Adrian’s journey to Forward
(13:55) The Forward “Care Pod”, an AI-powered doctor's office providing scans, monitoring, blood tests and more
(15:55) Adrian demos Forward’s product
(23:44) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(24:50) Forward’s business model and target customer
(28:08) Figuring out how to make healthcare scalable
(30:29) Reactions to the Care Pod and thoughts on wearables
(34:51) The role of a doctor in Forward’s ecosystem
(37:28) Forward’s rollout strategy
(39:35) Arising Ventures - head to http://arisingventures.com/TWIST to learn more and connect with the team
(40:36) AI’s role in Forward’s technology
(43:27) The size of the company and plans for expansion
*
Check out Forward: https://goforward.com/
Follow Adrian:
https://twitter.com/adrianaoun
https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianaoun/
*
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
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*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Embroker. The Embroker Startup Insurance Program helps startups secure the most important types of insurance at a lower cost and with less hassle. Save up to 20% off of traditional insurance today at http://www.Embroker.com/twist While you’re there, get an extra 10% off using offer code TWIST.
CLA. Innovation takes balance. CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors can help you get from startup to where you want to end up. Get started now at http://www.CLAconnect.com/tech
IntouchCX. Want to build a loyal customer base for your startup? Unlock the power of innovative AI and automated support solutions from IntouchCX to deliver fast, personalized support and enhance your customers’ experience. Schedule your consultation today at http://www.intouchcx.com/twist
Today’s show:
The man behind the anonymous accounts “prayingforexits” on Instagram and “@mrexits” on X joins Jason for a jam-packed episode!
Topics covered: Praying For Exits raised a fund! (2:10) Drawing inspiration from Steve Jobs' iconic Think Different Campaign (8:55), defense tech going from “frowned upon” to a very hot market (17:03), and how the modern Middle East will play ball with the USA? (33:29)!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Mr. Exits joins Jason.
(2:16) Praying For Exits raised a fund!
(5:26) Subject-matter experts and the “alumni factor”
(9:01) Drawing inspiration from Steve Jobs' iconic Think Differently Campaign.
(9:23) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://www.Embroker.com/twist
(11:50) Building a startup is akin to compressing a life’s career into 5 years
(12:54)The softening of the American capitalistic machine
(14:32) The shot clock of VC
(16:57) Defense tech going from “frowned upon” to a very hot market
(19:09) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://www.claconnect.com/tech
(21:55) Globalization’s impact on nationalism
(28:20) USA's stake in the world’s top 25 market cap companies.
(29:21) InTouchCX - Schedule a free consultation at http://www.intouchcx.com/twist
(31:30) Speculating on the USA-China endgame.
(33:23) How will the modern Middle-East play ball with the USA?
(44:13) The Golden Visa of Dubai
(43:33) For those aspiring to be invested in by Mr. Exits
Our partners:
(9:23) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://www.Embroker.com/twist
(19:15) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://www.claconnect.com/tech
(29:27) InTouchCX - Schedule a free consultation at http://www.intouchcx.com/twist
*
FOLLOW PrayingForExits: https://twitter.com/mrexits
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
LinkedIn Marketing. To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups*
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at vanta.com/twist
Corient. Real wealth requires real solutions. Corient provides wealth management services centered around you. For more information, speak with an advisor today at Corient.com
Today’s show:
Sunny Madra joins Jason to discuss and demo xAI’s new chatbot, Grok (2:18), OpenAI’s new GPTs (31:54), and an AI designed to detect fake reviews (55:40). Then, Sunny builds a GPT live on air (36:22)
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Sunny Madra joins Jason
(2:18) Sunny demos xAI’s Grok chatbot
(14:49) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(21:33) Review and feedback for Grok chatbot
(28:36) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(31:54) Sunny demos OpenAI’s Game Time and Invest America GPTs
(36:22) Sunny builds a Launch GPT live!
(37:18) Corient - Speak with one of Corient's wealth management advisors today at http://corient.com
(48:33) Unlocking the potential of GPTs
(55:40) Sunny demos Fakespot, an AI tool for spotting fake reviews
*
Check out Grok: https://grok.x.ai
Check out OpenAI’s GPTs: https://chat.openai.com/gpts/discovery
Check out Fakespot: https://www.fakespot.com/
Check out Definitive Intelligence: https://www.definitive.io/
Follow Sunny: https://twitter.com/sundeep
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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Arising Ventures is a holding company that acquires tech startups facing setbacks. Arising Ventures knows what founders care about because they aren’t bankers, they are tech founders themselves! Go to http://arisingventures.com/TWIST
*
Today’s show:
TechCrunch's Alex Wilhelm joins Jason to break down the latest earnings reports from Uber (4:04), Lyft (24:28), and Nextdoor (44:15). Then, the two dive into WeWork's failed business model (1:01:44), the viability of various careers as AI advances (38:33), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Tech Crunch’s Alex Wilhelm joins Jason
(4:04) Uber’s earning report
(7:04) Pirate cut-throat mentality analogy and the money-ball system
(10:11) NetSuite - Download your free KPI Checklist at http://www.netsuite.com/twist
(11:12) Did the press get Uber’s Earnings report right?
(17:39) Uber and the J-Curve
(20:29) Miro - Sign up for a free account at https://www.miro.com/startups
(22:17) Uber, China, and DiDi
(23:14) ZIRP environment playbook to own a market
(24:28) Lyft gets a participation trophy
(25:22) Comparing Lyft to Uber’s Revenue (Quarterly)
(27:53) Labor availability
(31:05) Arising Ventures - head to http://www.arisingventures.com/TWIST to learn more and connect with the team
(32:15) Immigration policy and a record-low unemployment
(37:37) The underground economy
(38:33) AI effects on unemployment
(39:12) Let’s build new cities!
(44:15) NextDoor earnings
(55:34) A case for hiring remotely
(59:13) Combining remote work with the power of AI
(1:01:44) Clip from TWiST E969 with Alex about WeWork
(1:04:22) Earnings “supplements”
(1:07:35) When Alex discovered business as a youth
(1:14:18) A South Park clip!
*
Check out TWiST E969: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aM1DDVq3_vs
Follow Alex: https://twitter.com/alex
*Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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.Tech Domains has a new program called startups.tech, where you can get your startup featured on This Week in Startups. Go to startups.tech/jason to find out how!
*
Today’s show:
First, Jason breaks down what forced WeWork’s bankruptcy filing (2:27), and what it might look like if Adam Neumann took back the company. (5:45) Then, driverDoc's Josh Kolar joins Jason to discuss creating all-in-one digital management platform for trucking companies (25:54).
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(2:27) Breaking down WeWork’s bankruptcy
(5:45) Is there a case for Adam Neumann’s return to WeWork?
(12:38) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at http://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(13:46) Adam Neumann's standing in the industry
(22:40) Lemon.io - Get $2000 off your first hire at http://lemon.io/hire
(25:49) driverDOC CEO and Co-Founder Josh Kolar joins Jason
(25:10) Unveiling the entrepreneurial journey that led to the birth of driverDOC.
(29:00) How driverDOC is navigating the complex landscape of fragmented trucking industries.
(30:04) Adding value to the legacy apps and the big vision for driverDOC
(31:19) .Tech Domains - Apply to get your startup featured on This Week in Startups at https://www.startups.tech/jason
(32:31) The introduction of AI and multi-modal helps to accelerate the innovation of driverDOC
(34:22) An analysis of the current state of bill of lading standardization in the logistics industry.
(36:31) Advancements in live package tracking for improved shipment visibility.
(38:31) Building a startup in the heartland of America
(40:13) The impact of Uber and Amazon on freight
(41:32) The case of Convoy and the brokerage model
Referenced in the podcast:
https://www.reuters.com/business/softbanks-wework-once-most-valuable-us-startup-succumbs-bankruptcy-2023-11-07
https://www.newcomer.co/p/will-adam-neumann-rescue-wework
*
Check out driverDoc: https://www.driverdoc.io
Follow Josh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshkolar
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
Todays show:
Kruze's Scott Orn joins Jason on the latest edition of Startup Finance Basics! In this episode, they discuss the current state of the market (0:40), diversifying bank relationships (6:09), managing risk (16:25), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Kruze's Scott Orn joins Jason
(0:40) The current state of the market
(6:09) The SVB lesson: Diversify your bank relationships
(16:25) Capital preservation, liquidity, and risk management
*
Check out Kruze: https://kruzeconsulting.com
*
Follow Scott:
https://twitter.com/scottorn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottorn
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
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CLA. Innovation takes balance. CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors can help you get from startup to where you want to end up. Get started now at CLAconnect.com/tech
*
Today’s show:
First up, Jason takes on the news solo by breaking down Uber's Q3 earnings (2:23), reflecting on SBF's guilty verdict (13:39), and giving some takes on Biden's EO on AI (15:53). Then, Motive CEO John Habeck joins to break down building "Shopify for Car Dealerships" (21:39).
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(2:23) Uber earnings report and Uber’s profitability
(12:17) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/twist
(13:39) SBF’s guilty verdict
(15:53) Takes on Biden's executive order on AI
(20:11) House of Macadamias - Get a free month's supply of Macadamia Milk with any order at https://houseofmacadamias.com/twist by using code TWIST20!
(21:39) Motive CEO John Habeck discusses building a startup in a "sleeping giant" industry
(32:18) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech
(33:17) Understand the TAM for "Shopify for Car Dealerships”
*
Referenced in the podcast:
https://s23.q4cdn.com/407969754/files/doc_earnings/2023/q3/earnings-result/Uber-Q3-23-Earnings-Press-Release.pdf
https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2023/10/30/executive-order-on-the-safe-secure-and-trustworthy-development-and-use-of-artificial-intelligence
https://www.businessofapps.com/data/uber-statistics
https://twitter.com/EconomyApp/status/1721899291248324642
*
Check out Motive: https://www.ridemotive.com
*Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
LinkedIn Jobs. A business is only as strong as its people, and every hire matters. Go to LinkedIn.com/TWIST to post your first job for free. Terms and conditions apply.
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IntouchCX. Want to build a loyal customer base for your startup? Unlock the power of innovative AI and automated support solutions from IntouchCX to deliver fast, personalized support and enhance your customers’ experience. Schedule your consultation today at http://intouchcx.com/twist
Today’s show:
Sunny joins Jason to discuss OpenAI’s DevDay announcements (1:33). Then, Sunny demos an AI-driven chatbot creator (32:49), an AI email-first Chief of Staff (39:12), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Sunny Madra joins Jason to break down OpenAI DevDay!
(1:33) OpenAI DevDay announcements: GPT-4 Turbo, expanded context windows, Custom GPTs, and more
(12:57) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(14:28) How OpenAI's "GPT Store" could change the way we consume the internet
(22:02) GPT-4 Turbo, speed, cost reduction, expanded context window issues
(26:16) Coda - Get started for free at https://coda.io/twist
(32:49) DEMO: Droxy.ai: a custom chatbot platform
(37:54) InTouchCX - Schedule a free consultation at http://intouchcx.com/twist
(39:12) DEMO: Mindy.com: an AI-powered email Chief of Staff
(45:43) DEMO: Brave Nightly's webpage summarizer
(50:24) DEMO: Zapier's AI-powered Zaps
*
Check out what happened at OpenAI DevDay: https://devday.openai.com/
Check out Droxy Ai: https://www.droxy.ai/
Check out Mindy: https://mindy.com/
Follow Sunny: https://twitter.com/sundeep
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at www.vanta.com/twist
The Embroker Startup Program helps startups secure the most important lines of insurance, at a lower cost, and with less hassle. For guaranteed 10% off on premiums (& up to 20% depending on quote) go to www.embroker.com/twist.
Brave is an internet privacy company on a mission to protect your personal info online. Try the Brave Search API at http://www.brave.com/jason
Today’s show:
Maven Co-Founder and CEO Gagan Biyani joins Jason to break down his startup's live, cohort-based education model (2:28). Then, Gagan dives into his past journeys at Udemy, where he was eventually fired but wound up revolutionizing online learning and going public (35:08), and Sprig, a food-delivery startup that went on to raise $60M and scale to $20M in revenue, but ultimately failed (47:36).
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Gagan Biyani, CEO of Maven, joins Jason to discuss the future of online learning.
(2:24) Maven: the evolution of online learning.
(3:23) Exploring Maven's elite courses offered by a diverse pool of passionate professionals.
(6:57) Analyzing who is leveraging Maven for education and the cost dynamics of online learning.
(10:30) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist
(11:36) How Maven's live cohort-based learning emphasizes accountability and interactivity for higher success rates.
(13:15) Comparing the outdated cost structures of traditional education with modern alternatives.
(23:10) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://www.Embroker.com/twist
(26:31) Unveiling the potential earnings for educators in the online learning marketplace.
28:27) The online educational landscape featuring insights on Coursera, Udemy, and others.
(30:56) Brave - Try the Brave Search API at http://www.brave.com/jason
(33:40) Jason built the “pit” at TechCrunch50, where he and Gagan first met.
(35:08) How Udemy's early days were shaped by the Founder Institute and Adeo Ressi.
(41:28) Gagan shares his personal story of being fired from Udemy and his lessons learned.
(47:33) The trials, tribulations, and ultimate closure of the food delivery startup, Sprig.
(53:39) Discussing the most effective methods for scaling and growing a product.
(55:02) The world of fundraising and understanding the power law in venture capital.
Check out Maven: https://www.maven.com
Follow Gagan:
https://twitter.com/gaganbiyani
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaganbiyani*Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/fourApply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/applyBuy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
The Equinix Startup program offers provides a hybrid infrastructure solution for startups, including up to $100K in credits and personalized consultations and guidance from the Equinix team. Go to https://equinixstartups.com to apply today.
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Today’s show:
Convai CEO Purnendu Mukherjee joins Jason to discuss creating AI-powered NPCs using Convai (6:05), the birth of generative AI (22:17), open-source vs. closed AI (36:01), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Convai CEO Purnendu Mukherjee joins Jason
(3:54) The motivation behind Convai
(6:05) Purnendu breaks down creating an NPC character using Convai
(10:16) Equinix - Join the Equinix Startup Program for up to $100K in credits and much more at https://equinixstartups.com
(11:36) Demo of character creation using Convai's unique toolset
(17:18) Integrating AI Characters into Game Worlds with Convai
(20:50) Fitbod - Get 25% off at https://fitbod.me/twist
(22:17) Convai’s business model and the issue game developers have with moving from flat rate to usage-based charges
(25:00) Purnendu reflects on his time at Nvidia
(29:57) The birth of the generative AI boom
(34:30) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(36:01) Navigating the Future: AI Regulation & open-source vs. closed AI
(40:11) The countdown to self-creating AI
(43:13) Purnendu breaks down data collected for AI and the uses for an AI-enabled Amazon Mechanical Turk
Check out Convai: https://www.convai.com
Follow Purnendu:
https://twitter.com/purn3ndu
https://www.linkedin.com/in/purn3ndu
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Lemon.io. Get access to Lemon Hire, a platform with more than 80,000 pre-vetted engineers that you can interview within 48 hours. Get $2000 off your first hire at http://lemon.io/hire today!
IntouchCX. Give your startup a boost and simplify your processes with next-level automated customer support solutions from IntouchCX. Discover your custom strategy at Intouchcx.com/twist
Northwest Registered Agent. When starting your business, it's important to use a service that will actually help you. Northwest Registered Agent is that service. They'll form your company fast, give you the documents you need to open a business bank account, and even provide you with mail scanning and a business address to keep your personal privacy intact. Visit http://northwestregisteredagent.com/twist to get a 60% discount on your next LLC.
*
Today’s show:
Airtable CEO Howie Liu joins Jason to discuss his philosophy of product-led growth (1:35), the current explosion of AI (36:37), and much more!
Time stamps:
(0:00) Airtable CEO Howie Liu joins Jason
(1:35) Howie’s philosophy on product-led growth
(5:05) Bridging the gap between spreadsheets and purpose-driven apps
(7:12) Tweet storm referenced on the All-In podcast
(13:19) Lemon.io - Get $2000 off your first hire at https://lemon.io/hire
(17:13) Blitzscale hiring
(24:28) InTouchCX - Get started with a free consultation at https://intouchcx.com/twist
(26:18) Charging per-seed basis and revisiting Airtable on E814 in 2018
(30:36) Jason shares two successful use cases utilizing Airtable
(35:32) Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at https://northwestregisteredagent.com/twist
(36:37) The AI boom and its potential dangers
*
Check out All In E146: https://youtu.be/X-Sb8sIi22g?si=fhiIi5ehFOyrMUD-&t=3673
Check out Howie in TWiST E814: https://youtu.be/55JnirJ7oHk?si=oPlNol8cotYrJTI1
*
Follow Howie: https://twitter.com/howietl
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Arising Ventures - Head to http://arisingventures.com/TWIST to learn more and connect with the team
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Brave - Download today at https://brave.com/twist to browse faster, search privately and so much more
*
Today’s show:
Sunny joins Jason for more demos! An AI-driven ownership and equity platform for founders (14:37), an AI interviewer who conducts live interviews (27:20), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Sunny Madra joins Jason
(6:08) Jason’s experience with ChatGPT multimodal
(13:31) Arising Ventures - head to http://arisingventures.com/TWIST to learn more and connect with the team
(14:37) Sunny demos Mantle, an AI-powered cap table management platform for founders
(25:49) Nuts.com - Get a free gift with purchase and free shipping on orders of $29 or more at http://www.Nuts.com/twist
(27:20) Sunny demos Talently.ai, an AI-powered job interviewer
(39:37) Brave - Download today at https://brave.com/twist to browse faster, search privately and so much more
(40:50) Sunny demos Morise.ai, a tool that helps YouTube creators generate titles, descriptions, and tags for videos!
*
Check out Mantle: https://withmantle.com
Check out Talently AI: https://interview.talently.ai
Check out Morise AI: https://morise.ai
Follow Sunny: https://twitter.com/sundeep
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great 2023 interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
With Mercury Raise, startup founders no longer have to navigate roadblocks alone. Visit http://mercury.com/raise to get access to a network, connections, and advice.
Corient. Real wealth requires real solutions. Corient provides wealth management services centered around you. For more information, speak with an advisor today at http://corient.com
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at https://vanta.com/twist
*
Today’s show:
First, Loop Golf's CEO Matt Holder joins Jason for a jam session on scaling his startup, which is building an automatic tee time booking app for golfers (4:32). Then, Jason gives a recap on the news surrounding Cruise robotaxi & more! (32:43)
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Loop Golf’s Matt Holder joins Jason
(4:32) What sets Loop Golf apart from traditional golf booking apps
(8:17) Matt demos Loop Golf
(15:23) Mercury Raise - Visit http://mercury.com/raise to get access to a network, connections, and advice
(16:49) The sudden surge in the popularity of golf
(20:53) The current state of golfer-tracking technology
(24:27) Corient - Speak with one of Corient's wealth management advisors today at http://corient.com
(25:29) Incorporating real-time features into Loop Golf
(27:40) Thoughts on surge pricing and additional app features
(31:33) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(32:43) The suspension of Cruise’s robotaxi permit in San Francisco.
*
Check out Loop Golf: https://loopgolf.co/
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Lemon.io. Get access to Lemon Hire, a platform with more than 80,000 pre-vetted engineers that you can interview within 48 hours. Get $2000 off your first hire at http://lemon.io/hire today!
Codecademy. Build the future you want to see with Codecademy. Codecademy Pro helps you learn everything you’ll need to shape what comes next in the tech space. Try it free for 14 days. Visit Codecademy.com/TWiST
NetSuite. Once your business gets to a certain size the cracks start to emerge. Things you used to do in a day take a week. You deserve a customized solution - and that's NetSuite. Learn more when you download NetSuite’s popular KPI Checklist - absolutely free, at NetSuite.com/twist
*
Today’s show:
Sunny Madra joins Jason to demo an AI-powered legal docs tool (6:46), detection tool (15:38), Google’s workspace AI (35:15), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Sunny Madra joins Jason
(6:46) Sunny demos Legal Now - AI-powered legal docs tool
(10:01) Lemon.io - Get $2000 off your first hire at http://lemon.io/hire
(11:10) Sunny demos Rows - Web-based Excel
(15:38) Sunny demos Originality AI - AI detection tool(22:36) Codecademy - Try Codecademy Pro FREE for 14 days at http://codecademy.com/TWiST
(24:02) Apple testing M3 MacBook Pros with 16 CPU cores and 40 GPU cores
(31:32) Sunny demos Summarize.tech - Summarizes YouTube videos
(33:57) NetSuite - Download your free KPI Checklist at http://netsuite.com/twist
(35:15) Sunny demos Google Docs AI write
(43:49) Sunny demos Google Sheets AI
*
Check out Legal Now: https://ai.legalnow.xyz/
Check out Rows: Rows.comCheck out Originality AI: https://app.originality.ai/content-scan/6910415
Check out Summarize.tech: https://www.summarize.tech/www.youtube.com/watch?v=co_MeKSnyAo
*
Follow Sunny: https://twitter.com/sundeep
Check out Definitive Intelligence: https://www.definitive.io/
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Embroker. The Embroker Startup Insurance Program helps startups secure the most important types of insurance at a lower cost and with less hassle. Save up to 20% off of traditional insurance today at https://Embroker.com/twist. While you’re there, get an extra 10% off using offer code TWIST.
CLA. Innovation takes balance. CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors can help you get from startup to where you want to end up. Get started now at https://CLAconnect.com/tech
IntouchCX. Looking for ways to make your startup more efficient? IntouchCX has a ground-breaking suite of AI-powered tools for end-to-end optimization to give your business the edge it needs to thrive. Get started with your free consultation at http://intouchcx.com/twist
*
Today’s show:
Jason kicks the show off with a discussion on the state of venture capital in the Middle East (1:34). Then, he breaks down Q3 earnings reports for Google, Microsoft, and Snap (18:12), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(1:34) The state of VC in the Middle East
(10:15) The founder ecosystem and adapting to EU regulations
(13:57) Updates on "THE LINE"
(16:45) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(18:12) Google Q3 earnings
(22:48) Microsoft Q3 earnings
(28:21) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech
(29:57) Snap’s Q3 earnings
(38:33) InTouchCX - Get started with a free consultation at http://intouchcx.com/twist
(39:57) Snap’s Daily Active Users (DAU)
(43:15) Frameworks for investing in consumer internet companies
(44:56) Greycroft layoffs
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/fourApply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to https://Squarespace.com/twist for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
Catalog. Stop wasting time and money with expensive design firms and unreliable freelancers! Get fast, 3-day turnarounds for a flat monthly fee with Catalog! Get $1200 off right now at https://trycatalog.com/twist
.Tech Domains has a new program called startups.tech, where you can get your startup featured on This Week in Startups. Go to https://startups.tech/jason to find out how!
*
Today’s show:
Mathew Russell Lee from Inner City Press joins Jason to discuss life as an independent journalist (13:47), startup fraud trends (2:27), his firsthand observations from the SBF courtroom (17:05), the state of the justice system (1:01:16), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Inner City Press’ Matthew Russell Lee joins Jason
(2:27) The failed Nikola Badger launch and trial of CEO Trevor Milton
(10:03) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/twist
(11:24) Current status of the SBF trial
(13:47) Matthew's approach to journalism
(17:05) Firsthand observations from the SBF courtroom and reflections on cooperators’ testimonies
(20:56) The dynamics among the accused and framing of their involvement
(23:54) The jury’s key point of interest
(28:38) Catalog - Get $1200 off right now at https://trycatalog.com/twist
(30:07) SBF’s family involvement and use of effective altruism
(34:58) SBF's defense strategy and alleged misuse of client funds
(40:58) .Tech Domains - Apply to get your startup featured on This Week in Startups at https://startups.tech/jason
(43:25) SBF’s extradition and Sam Trabucco's role in the Chinese bribery scheme
(47:09) Recouping money
(50:57) Remaining aspects of the SBF trial
(53:57) SBF's character and upbringing
(56:19) Outcomes of previous fraud cases and thoughts on SBF's conviction
(1:01:16) SDNY's nature and the state of the U.S. justice system
*
Follow Matthew: https://twitter.com/innercitypress
Check out Inner City Press: https://www.innercitypress.com/
Check out Matthew's Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/MatthewRussellLee
*
Check out TWiST episode 1090: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SH-zhlqvJWM
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/fourApply for
Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
IntouchCX. Looking for ways to make your startup more efficient? IntouchCX has a ground-breaking suite of AI-powered tools for end-to-end optimization to give your business the edge it needs to thrive. Get started with your free consultation at http://intouchcx.com/twist
Fount. Do you want access to the performance protocols that pro athletes and special ops use? With Fount, an elite military operator supercharges your focus, sleep, recovery, and longevity, all powered by your unique data. Want a true edge in work and life? Go to fount.bio/TWIST for $500 off.
.Tech Domains has a new program called startups.tech, where you can get your startup featured on This Week in Startups. Go to startups.tech/jason to find out how!
*
Today’s show:
Sanctuary AI CEO Geordie Rose joins Jason for an incredible interview on the complexities of using AI to train robots (11:09), developing large behavior models (17:53), the 'lights out' moment in manufacturing (42:52), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Sanctuary AI CEO Geordie Rose joins Jason
(3:42) Sanctuary AI's approach to robotics and motivation behind creating humanoid robots
(6:05) The human hand's integral role in AI-driven robot development: Planning, reasoning, and understanding the world
(11:09) Moravec’s paradox and the challenges of instilling perception in robots
(16:40) InTouchCX - Get started with a free consultation at http://intouchcx.com/twist
(17:53) The significance of "Micro-Policies" and developing large behavior models
(22:59) Exploring human cognition and large behavior models
(28:52) Fount - Get $500 off an executive health coach at https://fount.bio/twist
(30:23) Sanctuary AI’s Phoenix robot, robot training, and use of large language models
(37:46) Robotics in automotive manufacturing
(41:43) .Tech Domains - Apply to get your startup featured on This Week in Startups at https://startups.tech/jason
(42:52) The"lights out' moment in manufacturing and the challenge of regulatory capture in AI
(56:01) Humans’ problem-solving nature and roots of technological fear
*
Check out Sanctuary AI: https://sanctuary.ai/
Follow Geordie: https://twitter.com/realgeordierose
*
Check out Bill Gurley’s 2,851 Miles: https://youtu.be/F9cO3-MLHOM?feature=shared
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo:
https://www.launch.co/fourApply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Masterworks. The first company allowing investors exposure into the blue-chip artwork asset class. TWIST listeners can skip the waitlist by going to https://masterworks.com/twist and using promo code TWIST.
Codecademy. Build the future you want to see with Codecademy. Codecademy Pro helps you learn everything you’ll need to shape what comes next in the tech space. Try it free for 14 days. Visit Codecademy.com/TWiST
LinkedIn Jobs. A business is only as strong as its people, and every hire matters. Go to LinkedIn.com/TWIST to post your first job for free. Terms and conditions apply.
*
Today’s show:
Lon Harris joins Jason to discuss Apple’s major push into Hollywood blockbusters (1:38), their anti-Netlix, “auteur” approach (4:27), updates on the WGA+SAG-AFTRA strikes (29:11), film recommendations (46:10), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Lon Harris joins Jason
(1:38) Apple’s major push into Hollywood blockbusters
(4:27) Apple's anti-Netflix, “auteur” approach
(6:11) Why is this timely? Approaches to film marketing and releases
(13:56) Masterworks - Skip the waitlist to invest in fine art at https://www.masterworks.com/twist
(15:21) Breaking down the budget for Apple's Killers of the Flower Moon
(18:13) Why is Netflix taking the opposite approach
(20:12) Sequels and audience burnout
(21:25) Movie budgets: Napoleon, Barbie, Oppenheimer
(27:45) Codecademy - Try Codecademy Pro FREE for 14 days at http://codecademy.com/TWiST
(29:11) Update on the WGA strike and AI's place in film
(38:01) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(39:31) Update on SAG-AFTRA negotiations
(43:53) Understanding the "auteur" approach and the significance behind original IP
(46:10) Film and Show Recommendations: Fall of the House of Usher, The Mill, The Diplomat, Mr. Inbetween, Past Lives, The Burial, The Caine Mutiny Court-Martial
*
Follow Lon: https://twitter.com/Lons
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/fourApply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at vanta.com/twist
LinkedIn Marketing. To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
DevSquad. Most dev agencies only offer developers. Why? Because product management is hard. Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist.
*
Today’s show:
Booking Holdings CEO Glenn Fogel joins Jason to discuss trends in the travel industry (31:20), healthy M&A environments (24:24), job disruption due to AI (37:22), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Booking Holdings CEO Glenn Fogel joins Jason
(2:37) Booking Holdings' companies and their operations
(5:30) Shifts in the travel industry
(10:52) A look at the ascension of Airbnb
(15:25) The impact of alternative accommodations
(17:15) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(18:21) AI's influence on user interfaces
(20:55) Uber's entry into travel and Uber’s everything app
(22:44) Competition in travel
(24:24) What makes for healthy M&A in the USA and thoughts on Lina Khan's strategy
(28:19) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(29:44) Consequences of removing M&A from the table
(31:20) Trends in travel over the past two decades
(34:14) Advocating for a 32-hour work week in China and the four-day work week debate
(37:22) Job disruption due to AI and where will people shift to next
(41:01) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist
(42:19) Traits of generations X, Y, and Z in relation to entrepreneurship and capitalism
(45:34) Selecting company leaders and management techniques
(48:00) Recovering from COVID-19's impact on the travel industry
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/fourApply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
With Mercury Raise, startup founders no longer have to navigate roadblocks alone. Visit mercury.com/raise to get access to a network, connections, and advice.
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
Fitbod. Tired of doing the same workouts at the gym? Fitbod will build you personalized workouts that help you progress with every set. Get 25% off your subscription or try out the app for FREE when you sign up now at fitbod.me/TWIST.
*
Today’s show:
Sunny Madra joins Jason to demo an AI-enabled survey tool (1:31), ChatGPT’s multimodal UI feedback (44:58), Google generative image search (59:15), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Sunny Madra joins Jason
(1:31) Sunny demos Trove’s conversational surveys
(10:43) Final thoughts and grades for Trove
(17:43) Mercury Raise - Visit http://mercury.com/raise to get access to a network, connections, and advice
(19:07) Sunny demos the ChatGPT's multimodal calculator builder
(22:45) Microsoft reportedly losing $20/month per GitHub Copilot user
(28:58) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/twist
(30:20) Sunny demos SuperManage
(34:46) Grades for SuperManage
(43:30) Fitbod - Get 25% off at https://fitbod.me/twist
(44:58) Demo of ChatGPT's Multimodal UI feedback
(49:01) OpenAI’s business model
(54:09) Grades for ChatGPT Multimodal UI feedback
(59:15) Sunny demos Google’s generative image search
(1:02:12) Grades for Google’s generative image search
*
Check out Trove: https://gettrove.co/app/dashboard
Check out SuperManage: https://supermanage.ai/
*
Follow Sunny: https://twitter.com/sundeep
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/fourApply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
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*
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*
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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*
Today’s show:
Rewind CEO Dan Siroker joins Jason to discuss the new Rewind Pendant AI device that can record conversations (1:08), debate privacy and ethical concerns around covert recording (9:32), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(1:08) Dan breaks down the Rewind Pendant
(8:05) Codecademy - Try Codecademy Pro FREE for 14 days at http://codecademy.com/TWiST
(9:32) Privacy and ethical concerns around covert recording
(20:42) .Tech Domains - Apply to get your startup featured on This Week in Startups at https://startups.tech/jason
(21:47) Comparisons to products like Google Glass and Humane
(24:15) Design considerations and the best use cases for Rewind Pendant
(30:09) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/twist
(31:32) The need for thoughtful development of personal AI and the value of open feedback
*
Follow Dan: https://twitter.com/dsiroker
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/fourApply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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*
Today’s show:
Jason is back to break down the news: Bill Ackman's SPARC (1:32), Unity CEO steps down due to developer revolt over pricing changes (15:33), the AI operating cost problem (32:17), the latest on SBF's trial (45:32), and more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(1:32) Bill Ackman's SPARC
(14:02) Catalog - Get $1200 off right now at https://trycatalog.com/twist
(15:33) Unity CEO steps down over developer revolt, importance of getting pricing right
(24:44) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://lemon.io/twist
(26:05) Lyft looks to get rid of surge pricing
(32:17) Big tech firms are losing money on AI tools due to high operating costs
(37:10) Roots - Head to https://investwithroots.com/TWIST to sign up and start investing today
(38:43) Google's Project Green Light: AI is helping cities like Seattle reduce carbon emissions from cars by optimizing traffic lights
(45:32) SBF Trial Update
*
LINKS:
https://www.cnbc.com/2023/09/29/bill-ackmans-spac-gets-green-light-from-the-sec-and-hes-looking-for-something-to-buy.html
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230929101720/en/Pershing-Square-SPARC-Holdings-Ltd.-Announces-Launch-and-SPAR-Distribution
https://www.sec.gov/oiea/investor-alerts-and-bulletins/what-you-need-know-about-spacs-investor-bulletin
https://fortune.com/2022/07/12/bill-ackman-liquidates-largest-spac-ever-returns-4-billion-investors-blank-check-era-fades
https://venturebeat.com/games/john-riccitiello-steps-down-as-ceo-of-unity-after-pricing-battle
https://unity.com/pricing#plans-individualsand-teams
https://www.axios.com/2023/09/13/unity-runtime-fee-policy-marc-whitten
https://twitter.com/InnerslothDevs/status/1701731398498013575
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*
Today’s show:
Zach Coelius joins Jason to discuss the phases of early-stage startups (2:01), break down the state of VC (13:17), answer live questions from the audience (22:36), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Zach Coelius joins Jason
(2:01) The three phases of early-stage startups
(10:00) Fount - Get $500 off an executive health coach at https://fount.bio/twist
(11:31) Advantages that Builder/Founder startups possess
(13:17) The state of VC: The LP and GP relationship, post-ZIRP, and startup soft landings
(21:10) Coda - Get a $1,000 startup credit at https://coda.io/twist
(22:36) Question: How do you describe PMF in the simplest terms possible
(29:20) Question: How hard is it for first-time founders to raise pre-seed?
(39:46) Miro - Sign up for a free account at https://miro.com/startups
(41:11) Question: I will be in the Bay Area for two weeks… any advice on how to efficiently meet VCs to pitch my startup?
(45:56) Question: What are attributes of companies that are getting funded today? More stable and breakeven? Different industries? What is working today?
(54:49) Breaking news: Caroline Ellison, CEO of Alameda Research testifies for first time today in SBF’s trial
(1:01:49) Cruise robotaxi fleet deployed in San Francisco
*
Follow Zach: https://twitter.com/zachcoelius
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
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*
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*
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*
Today’s show:
Bill Gurley and Sunny Madra join Jason to discuss open-source AI vs. proprietary AI (1:12), friends and foes of open-source AI (5:42), and strategic choices companies make between open and closed approaches (9:48). Then, Sunny demos more AI tools (22:45), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Sunny Madra joins Jason
(1:12) Bill Gurley joins to break down open-source vs. proprietary AI
(5:42) Friends and foes of open-source AI
(8:17) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(9:48) Strategic choices companies make between open and closed approaches
(21:37) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(22:45) Sunny demos LLaVA: Large Language and Vision Assistant
(29:56) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech
(31:00) Sunny breaks down parameter models
(38:56) Companies manufacturing their own chips
(42:26) Sunny demos Mistral AI
(46:56) Jason and Sunny demo Meta AI on WhatsApp
(50:44) FTX and the SBF trial
*
Follow Bill: https://twitter.com/bgurley
Follow Sunny: https://twitter.com/sundeep
*
Check out LLaVA: https://llava-vl.github.io/
Check out Mistral: https://huggingface.co/spaces/Open-Orca/Mistral-7B-OpenOrca?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
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*
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Embroker. The Embroker Startup Insurance Program helps startups secure the most important types of insurance at a lower cost and with less hassle. Save up to 20% off of traditional insurance today at Embroker.com/twist. While you’re there, get an extra 10% off using offer code TWIST.
*
Today’s show:
Jason breaks down the SBF trial (11:47), the peak of the crypto hype (19:15), and takes a few live questions (42:26)!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(1:42) Michael Lewis’ book and FTX’s downfall
(10:18) House of Macadamias - Get a free month's supply of Macadamia Milk with any order at https://houseofmacadamias.com/twist by using code TWIST20!
(11:47) SBF’s trial and the prosecutor's argument
(15:42) The reasons people flipped on SBF
(19:15) Crypto hype, wash trading, and the reason for regulations
(23:31) Roots - Head to https://investwithroots.com/TWIST to sign up and start investing today!
(25:05) The defense's argument
(28:49) How investors look at SBF and the importance of governance in a startup
(33:57) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(35:12) Witnesses and Jason's verdict prediction
(42:26) Questions from live audience!
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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With Mercury Raise, startup founders no longer have to navigate roadblocks alone. Visit mercury.com/raise to get access to a network, connections, and advice.
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*
Today’s show:
Jason breaks down Amazon’s Anthropic deal and the state of AI mega-rounds (5:29), Flexport’s growing pains through the lens of founding CEO vs. hired gun (24:58), and DoorDash’s new stealthy “Dine Out” feature (44:52).
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(2:42) Recap of Anthropic's big week
(5:29) Amazon’s Anthropic deal and the state of AI mega-rounds
(7:35) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(9:04) Two major details in Amazon’s Anthropic deal
(18:57) Strategic investors and Anthropic’s corporate structure
(23:32) Mercury Raise - Visit http://mercury.com/raise to get access to a network, connections, and advice
(24:58) Flexport’s growing pains through the lens of founding CEO vs. hired gun
(35:17) Why Dave Clark being fired “for cause” instead of being allowed to resign matters
(38:20) NetSuite - Download your free KPI Checklist at http://netsuite.com/twist
(39:45) Flexport's offer to Clark
(44:52) DoorDash’s new stealthy “Dine Out!” feature
*
Reuters article: https://www.reuters.com/markets/deals/amazon-steps-up-ai-race-with-up-4-billion-deal-invest-anthropic-2023-09-25/
The Information article: https://www.theinformation.com/articles/openai-rival-anthropic-in-talks-to-raise-2-billion-from-google-others-as-ai-arms-race-accelerates
CNBC article: https://www.cnbc.com/2023/10/02/the-inside-story-of-dave-clarks-tumultuous-last-days-at-flexport.html
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
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*
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*
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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LinkSquares. Life for in-house legal just got a whole lot easier. From contract creation to execution and more, LinkSquares is the go-to for all your legal needs. Learn more at https://linksquares.com/twist
*
Today’s show:
Kayak CEO Steve Hafner joins Jason to discuss the current landscape of the travel industry (1:56), its economic dynamics (17:40), emerging trends in hospitality (41:08), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Kayak CEO Steve Hafner joins Jason
(1:56) The state of the travel industry today and the adoption of AI
(10:50) Roots - Head to https://investwithroots.com/TWIST to sign up and start investing today!
(12:15) Navigating shifts in UI and building bulletproof features for at-scale companies
(15:32) Kayak's response to the impact of Covid-19 on the industry
(17:40) The economics of the travel industry
(28:14) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/twist
(29:36) OpenTable, diner ratings, and the advent of QR code ordering
(34:29) The drive behind OpenTable's revenue stream and product adoption
(39:54) LinkSquares - The go-to for all your legal needs; learn more at https://linksquares.com/twist
(41:08) Hospitality trends in hotels
(50:02) The impact of AI gains on Kayak’s operations
*
Follow Steve: https://twitter.com/shafner
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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*
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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*
Today’s show:
Sunny joins Jason for more demos! Microsoft’s Windows 11 Copilot (2:42), ChatGPT’s multimodal features (28:37), and Meta’s new AI chatbots (1:04:34) are all covered!!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Sunny Madra joins Jason
(2:42) Sunny demos Windows 11 Copilot preview
(9:48) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(10:55) Windows 11 Copilot to desktop interaction and areas needing improvement
(15:06) Consequences of recording desktop interactions for AI and the final grade for Windows 11 Copilot
(27:17) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(28:37) Sunny demos ChatGPT’s multimodal features
(36:32) Fitbod - Get 25% off at https://fitbod.me/twist
(38:01) Job destruction and AI’s effects on the workplace
(43:57) The utilization of multiple AI agents
(46:05) ChatGPT’s voice chat feature
(52:24) Personalization and the path to AGI
(1:02:09) Common Crawl and use of web crawl data
(1:04:34) Meta’s new AI chatbots
*
Follow Sunny: https://twitter.com/sundeep
Check out Definitive Intelligence: https://www.definitive.io/
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
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*
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Supergut is the only nutrition brand clinically-proven to improve digestion, balance blood sugar, sustain energy, and manage weight. Save 25% on their delicious shakes, bars, and prebiotic mix at https://Supergut.com with code TWIST.
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Codecademy. Build the future you want to see with Codecademy. Codecademy Pro helps you learn everything you’ll need to shape what comes next in the tech space. Try it free for 14 days. Visit https://codecademy.com/TWiST
*
Today's show:
Jason kicks off the show by discussing the reported talks between OpenAI, Jony Ive, and Masayoshi Son to build the "iPhone of AI” (1:17), and the FTC’s antitrust lawsuit against Amazon (9:45). Then, Roam Around CEO Shie Gabbai joins Jason to discuss the journey of doing a travel startup in the AI space (20:53), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(1:17) OpenAI in advanced talks with Jony Ive and Masayoshi Son, aiming to Raise $1 Billion for the "iPhone of AI”
(8:13) Supergut - Get 25% off with code TWIST at https://supergut.com
(9:45) The FTC and 17 states have brought an antitrust lawsuit against Amazon and Lina Khan's agenda
(13:48) Quick recap of Lina Khan’s results so far as FTC chair and the tactics used in the Amazon lawsuit
(19:24) Catalog - Get $1200 off right now at https://trycatalog.com/twist
(20:53) Roam Around CEO Shie Gabbai joins Jason
(23:51) Shie demos Roam Around and explains the driving idea behind the app
(27:23) The emergence of multimodal LLMs and other technological advancements
(31:46) Business model, additional product features, and the path ahead
(37:01) Codecademy - Try Codecademy Pro FREE for 14 days at http://codecademy.com/TWiST
(38:21) The B2B side of AI and the travel industry's tension with Google
*
Follow Shie: https://twitter.com/Shie_eth
Check out Roam Around: https://www.roamaround.io
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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*
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*
Today’s show:
Kelly Schricker joins Jason to kick off another startup pitch competition featuring four companies from Founder University Cohorts 5 and 6!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Jason and Kelly kick off another startup pitch competition!
(6:52) Why founding teams have an advantage over solo founders
(11:47) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://openphone.com/twist
(13:18) Founder University's program, and crafting the best pitch for your company
(22:24) .Tech Domains - Apply to get your startup featured on This Week in Startups at https://startups.tech/jason
(23:38) Jason Kappes pitches Newcomer Games
(25:58) Jason’s feedback for Newcomer Games
(32:24) Mercury - Join 100K+ startups banking with Mercury at http://mercury.com
(33:36) Matthew Majcher pitches Scrumly
(35:43) Jason’s feedback for Scrumly
(40:41) Jared Rosen pitches HomeScore
(42:59) Jason’s feedback for HomeScore
(52:21) Phoenix Do pitches Fitted
(54:26) Jason’s feedback for Fitted
(1:08:49) Kelly and Jason review the four companies and their pitches
(1:16:16) Jason picks his winning startup!
*
Check out Newcomer Games: https://newcomergames.com
Check out Scrumly: https://www.scrumly.ai
Check out HomeScore: https://homescore.co
Check out Fitted: https://www.fittedcollective.com
*
Follow Kelly: https://twitter.com/KSchricks
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at vanta.com/twist.
The Embroker Startup Insurance Program helps startups secure the most important types of insurance at a lower cost and with less hassle. Save up to 20% off of traditional insurance today at Embroker.com/twist. While you’re there, get an extra 10% off using offer code TWIST.
Fount. Do you want access to the performance protocols that pro athletes and special ops use? With Fount, an elite military operator supercharges your focus, sleep, recovery, and longevity, all powered by your unique data. Want a true edge in work and life? Go to fount.bio/twist for $500 off.
*
Today’s show:
Plaid CEO Zach Perret joins Jason to break down the behind-the-scenes details of Plaid’s canceled merger with Visa (1:21), Plaid’s origin story (16:44), tactics on growing a community within your early customer base (27:36), and more!
*
FOLLOW Zach: https://twitter.com/zachperret
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Jason welcomes Plaid CEO Zach Perret!
(1:21) Plaid's canceled Visa merger, coming out the other side of a canceled acquisition stronger
(11:30) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(12:36) Zach breaks down Plaid's product and business
(16:44) Plaid's origin story
(26:08) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://embroker.com/twist
(27:36) Tactics for growing a community within your customer base
(35:24) Competition, specifically from financial giants
(38:58) Fount - Get $500 off an executive health coach at https://fount.bio/twist
(40:28) FedNow, CBDCs, and the next evolution of payment rails
(50:13) Silicon Valley Bank implosion from Plaid's POV
(53:17) Surviving 2022, and the future of fintech in 2023 and beyond
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
CLA. Innovation takes balance. CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors can help you get from startup to where you want to end up. Get started now at https://CLAconnect.com/tech
Codecademy. Build the future you want to see with Codecademy. Codecademy Pro helps you learn everything you’ll need to shape what comes next in the tech space. Try it free for 14 days. Visit https://Codecademy.com/TWiST
LinkSquares. Life for in-house legal just got a whole lot easier. From contract creation to execution and more, LinkSquares is the go-to for all your legal needs. Learn more at https://linksquares.com/twist
*
Today’s show:
Grammarly CEO Rahul Roy-Chowdhury joins Jason to discuss his journey to CEO (15:28), Grammarly’s product features (26:20), AI integrations (32:28), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Grammarly CEO Rahul Roy-Chowdhury joins Jason
(4:19) Rahul's start in tech and his time on the Google Chrome team.
(8:57) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech
(10:24) The Chrome team and Chrome OS
(15:28) Journey to Grammarly CEO
(19:29) Exploring applications and platforms for Grammarly
(25:05) LinkSquares - The go-to for all your legal needs, learn more at https://linksquares.com/twist
(26:20) The product roadmap and what draws people into Grammarly
(35:04) Grammarly's business and enterprise offerings
(37:32) Codecademy - Try Codecademy Pro FREE for 14 days at http://codecademy.com/TWiST
(38:53) Product Features: Knowledge Share and Grammarly Goals
(42:28) The addition of Grammarly Go and the LLM powering it
(47:12) Controversial product features
(54:17) When to use the native desktop application and extensions
(57:13) Future integration of AI and the path ahead
*
Follow Rahul: https://twitter.com/rahulrc
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
LinkedIn Marketing. To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
Roots. Invest in the only real estate investment trust that creates wealth for you and its residents at https://investwithroots.com/TWIST
*
Today’s show:
Sunny Madra joins Jason to discuss Google's recently launched Bard Extensions (2:27), demo AI tools (49:02), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Sunny Madra joins Jason
(2:27) Demo of recently released Google Bard Extensions
(7:51) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(9:23) Demo of Google Bard Extensions continued (Google Maps)
(20:07) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/twist
(21:30) Demo of Google Bar Extensions (Gmail and YouTube)
(33:58) Roots - Head to https://investwithroots.com/TWIST to sign up and start investing today!
(35:23) Jason and Sunny grade and share opinions on Google Bard Extensions
(41:24) Microsoft Copilot
(43:01) YouTube Create, YouTube’s editing app for mobile creators
(49:02) Jason demos VENDOR
(52:21) Sunny demos SEC Insights
*
Check out Google Bard Extensions: https://www.bard.google.com
Check out yc.v.inc: https://www.yc.v.inc
Check out Microsoft Copilot: https://blogs.microsoft.com/blog/2023/09/21/announcing-microsoft-copilot-your-everyday-ai-companion/
Check Out YouTube Create: https://blog.youtube/news-and-events/made-on-youtube-2023/
Check out SEC Insights: https://www.secinsights.ai/
*
Follow Sunny: https://twitter.com/sundeep
Check out Definitive Intelligence: https://www.definitive.io/about
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
MasterClass. Learn from the world’s best minds - anytime, anywhere, and at your own pace. Get 15% off an annual membership to MasterClass at https://masterclass.com/startups
Masterworks. The first company allowing investors exposure into the blue-chip artwork asset class. TWIST listeners can skip the waitlist by going to https://www.masterworks.com/twist and using promo code TWIST.
Corient - Speak with one of Corient's wealth management advisors today at http://corient.com
*
Today’s show:
Jason goes live to break down Cisco acquiring Splunk and what this means for the broader M&A market (3:56), the latest IPO trends (13:50), WaPo tactics against Dave Portnoy (16:14), and questions asked by the live audience (23:52)!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show!
(3:56) Cisco acquires Splunk for $28B
(7:07) MasterClass - Get 15% off an annual membership at https://masterclass.com/startups
(8:36) Instacart’s IPO and why CPG is a major advertising category
(13:50) IPO trends and what that means for the startup market
(16:14) WaPo tactics against Dave Portnoy
(22:26) Masterworks - Skip the waitlist to invest in fine art using at https://Masterworks.com/twist
(23:52) Questions from live audience: "Do VCs ever go back to previous business trends or does everyone focus exclusively on the it-thing like AI today?”
(26:05) "How do startups outside Silicon Valley access VC funding, or do you just have to make the journey there?”
(27:10) "Heard you say you believe we still have six months of this down market. What makes you arrive at this prediction...?”
(30:57) "Since you invest in so many companies each year, how do you find alpha and separate these startups from each other?”
(33:49) Corient - Speak with one of Corient's wealth management advisors today at http://corient.com
(34:49) Why is Jason doing the cloud kitchen incubator?
(38:19) "Do you believe there should be guardrails on AI or as little regulation as possible to help spur innovation?”
(40:40) " Which areas do you recommend founders to cut burn that impacts growth released?”
(42:24) "Interest is forbidden in Islam, but I really want to invest or create an investment group without interest. Is this possible?”
(44:14) "How do you advise founders to solve disagreements internally?”
(45:39) "What is a book that you've read recently that you would highly recommend?”
(45:56) "Do you think the UK is underperforming when it comes to unicorns and big impact on startups?”
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
LinkedIn Jobs. A business is only as strong as its people, and every hire matters. Go to https://LinkedIn.com/TWIST to post your first job for free. Terms and conditions apply.
.Tech Domains has a new program called startups.tech, where you can get your startup featured on This Week in Startups. Go to https://startups.tech/jason to find out how!
Supergut is the only nutrition brand clinically-proven to improve digestion, balance blood sugar, sustain energy, and manage weight. Save 25% on their delicious shakes, bars, and prebiotic mix at https://Supergut.com with code TWIST.
*
Today’s show:
Replit CEO Amjad Masad joins Jason to discuss the latest developments in IDEs (3:04), leveraging AI for coding (11:48), Replit’s Ghostwriter (23:40), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Replit CEO Amjad Masad joins Jason
(3:04) The origin of integrated development environments (IDEs) uses and importance for developers
(6:44) IntelliSense, Replit's Ghostwriter and other debugging tools
(10:28) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(11:48) Leveraging AI in suggestion tools and coding platforms
(14:17) The role of autonomous agents in startup development
(19:20) Replit's Bounties platform and Replit's mission to build artificial developer intelligence (ADI)
(22:25) .Tech Domains - Apply to get your startup featured on This Week in Startups at https://startups.tech/jason
(23:40) Amjad Masad demos Replit's Ghostwriter and other apps
(31:46) Getting more people to become developers and low-code platforms
(36:35) Supergut - Get 25% off with code TWIST at https://supergut.com
(38:06) “Make Something Wonderful” Steve Jobs in his own words
(43:56) The human mind and the origin of Amjad's passion for computers
(48:22) Embracing AI and the resulting changes at Replit
(55:27) Paradigm shifts in Hollywood and tech
(1:03:06) thebrain.com
*
Check out Replit: https://replit.com
Follow Amjad: https://twitter.com/amasad
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Miro. Working remotely doesn't mean you need to feel disconnected from your team. Miro is an online whiteboard that brings teams together - anytime, anywhere. Go to https://miro.com/startups to sign up for a FREE account with unlimited team members.
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at https://vanta.com/twist
Mercury. 90% of startups fail. Just 10 out of every 100 make it. Mercury exists to close that gap — helping companies succeed with banking and credit cards engineered for the startup journey. Join over 100,000 companies banking with Mercury at http://mercury.com
*
Today's show:
Benchmark's Sarah Tavel joins Jason to discuss the state of VC (1:57), her time at Benchmark (13:33), her recent Substack blogs (31:51), AI's impact on startups (44:31), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Benchmark's Sarah Tavel joins Jason
(1:57) The state of VC and the biggest things founders have had to contend with
(12:08) Miro - Sign up for a free account at https://miro.com/startups
(13:33) Benchmark's culture
(21:35) Evolving trends in VC
(24:37) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(25:45) Tradeoffs and common VC mistakes
(31:51) Sarah's Substack blogs and the inspiration behind her writing
(35:42) Mercury - Join 100K+ startups banking with Mercury at http://mercury.com
(36:54) Entrepreneurship in 2023 and the importance of a founder's long-term vision
(44:31) Technology catalysts and how AI is impacting startups
(58:36) Business models, the amount of developers needed, and navigating funding rounds
(1:04:42) The complexities of strategic partnerships and corporate VC
(1:14:54) M&A in the era of Lina Kahn and looking at the macro picture as an investor
*
Follow Sarah: https://twitter.com/sarahtavel
Check out Sarah's Substack: https://www.sarahtavel.com
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason's suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Embroker. The Embroker Startup Insurance Program helps startups secure the most important types of insurance at a lower cost and with less hassle. Save up to 20% off of traditional insurance today at Embroker.com/twist. While you’re there, get an extra 10% off using offer code TWIST.
Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers, get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
LinkSquares. Life for in-house legal just got a whole lot easier. From contract creation to execution and more, LinkSquares is the go-to for all your legal needs. Learn more at linksquares.com/twist
*
Today’s show:
Oura CEO Tom Hale joins Jason to discuss his journey to becoming CEO of Oura (3:02), subscription-based business models (7:05), navigating ZIRP (39:37), the challenges of scaling a hardware business (45:00), and so much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Oura CEO Tom Hale joins Jason
(3:02) Tom's journey to becoming CEO
(7:05) The significance of subscription models for business operations & product innovation
(11:28) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(12:57) Oura's subscription-based business model
(23:04) Cultivating positive habits & Oura’s advanced tracking features
(26:26) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(27:47) Leading a company and instilling core values
(34:51) The impact of pausing marketing & harnessing the power of virality
(38:20) LinkSquares - The go-to for all your legal needs, learn more at https://linksquares.com/twist
(39:37) The ZIRP phenomenon and the challenges of scaling up
(45:00) Finding a strong product-market fit
(53:35) Merging personalization with consumer-focused approaches in healthcare
(1:03:45) Oura’s company culture
*
Check out Oura: https://ouraring.com
Follow Tom: https://twitter.com/tomeghale
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at openphone.com/twist
Fitbod. Tired of doing the same workouts at the gym? Fitbod will build you personalized workouts that help you progress with every set. Get 25% off your subscription or try out the app for FREE when you sign up now at fitbod.me/TWIST.
*
Today’s show:
Sunny Madra joins Jason to discuss Sunny’s All-In Summit experience (1:34), OpenAI’s race to beat Google in launching the first multimodal LLM (9:07), whether generative AI needs a UI shift (33:00), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Sunny Madra joins Jason
(1:34) All-In Summit 2023 recap and Sunny’s experience
(7:44) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(9:07) OpenAI’s race to beat Google in launching the first multimodal LLM
(14:42) Experiences with image-generating AI and Midjourney's interface
(19:23) The culture at Apple and where risk aversion sets them back
(22:32) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://openphone.com/twist
(24:03) Google’s advantages and chances against OpenAI in multimodal LLMs
(31:30) Fitbod - Get 25% off at https://fitbod.me/twist
(33:00) UI developments and what sets multimodal LLMs apart
(44:22) ChatGPT Enterprise
(45:37) Sunny demos Canva’s ChatGPT plugin
(55:00) Code LLaMa's potential and Falcon 180B’s unique features
(59:41) Sunny demos Headshots AI
*
Follow Sunny: https://twitter.com/sundeep
*
Check out Headshots AI: https://headshots-starter.vercel.app/overview
Check out Falcon 180B: https://falconllm.tii.ae/
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
LinkedIn Jobs. A business is only as strong as its people, and every hire matters. Go to http://linkedin.com/unicorn to post your first job for free. Terms and conditions apply.
Fount. Do you want access to the performance protocols that pro athletes and special ops use? With Fount, an elite military operator supercharges your focus, sleep, recovery, and longevity, all powered by your unique data. Want a true edge in work and life? Go to fount.bio/TWIST for $500 off.
Catalog. Stop wasting time and money with expensive design firms and unreliable freelancers! Get fast, 3-day turnarounds for a flat monthly fee with Catalog! Get $1200 off right now at https://trycatalog.com/twist
*
Today’s show:
Avnos CEO Will Kain joins Jason to discuss the importance of direct air capture technology for our planet (4:07), CO2's relationship to climate change (11:02), the path to reaching net zero (36:45), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Avnos CEO Will Kain joins Jason
(4:07) What carbon capture is and what makes it important
(6:15) The high levels of CO2 in the atmosphere
(9:46) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/unicorn
(11:02) CO2’s relationship to climate change
(19:05) Fount - Get $500 off at https://fount.bio/twist
(20:36) Direct air capture (DAC) technology developments and the cost of carbon capture
(26:17) What is takes to power a DAC system, resource efficiency, and Avnos’ unique HDAC
(32:33) Environmental conditions for DAC
(35:16) Catalog - Get $1200 off right now at https://trycatalog.com/twist
(36:45) The path to reaching net zero
(38:49) Monetization strategies
(42:46) The section 45Q tax credit legislation and the VC angle
(50:48) Avnos’ number one goal
(55:44) Mastering natural systems
(59:36) AI’s impact on DAC technology
*
Check out Avnos: https://www.avnos.com
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by… Roots. Invest in the only real estate investment trust that creates wealth for you and its residents at https://investwithroots.com/TWIST Supergut is the easiest and tastiest way clinically-proven to regulate digestion, curb cravings, and boost energy. Get 30% off their delicious shakes, bars, and fiber mix at https://Supergut.com with code TWIST. LinkedIn Marketing. To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
*
Today’s show: Modular CEO Chris Lattner joins Jason to discuss the process of building LLMs (8:14), what caused Nvidia to be entrenched in machine learning today (35:37), the AI wrapper debate (41:44), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(00:00) Modular CEO Chris Lattner joins Jason (2:24) Where hardware and optimization stand today (8:14) What goes into deploying and distributing an AI model into a product (10:32) Roots - Head to https://investwithroots.com/TWIST to sign up and start investing today! (12:02) Why companies make their own machine-learning software (14:32) Nvidia’s outlook on what Modular is building (18:46) Chris’s time at Apple (20:05) Strategies for reducing complexity (22:53) Awareness of underlying complexities in the technology stack (25:14) Supergut - Get 30% off with code TWIST at https://supergut.com (26:46) What it will look like in five to ten years; Increase consumption by creating new categories (31:29) The open-source community; Risk V and Arm (34:15) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups (35:37) How Nvidia secured its position (38:21) The AlexNet moment (41:44) The AI wrapper debate (44:32) OpenAI moving from non-profit to profit and open to closed-system (46:32) The lack of programmers and the ability to do more with less (52:09) Modular Mojo and other developments
*
Check out Modular: https://www.modular.com/
FOLLOW Chris: https://twitter.com/clattner_llvm
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
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*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by… Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at https://vanta.com/twist
Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers, get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist CLA. Innovation takes balance. CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors can help you get from startup to where you want to end up. Get started now at htttps://CLAconnect.com/tech
*
Today’s show: Zeke Faux, the author of “Number Go Up: Inside Crypto’s Wild Rise and Staggering Fall,” joins Jason to discuss crypto’s crazy rise and fall (3:58), how SBF learned to play the game (16:22), red flags at Tether (26:13), and so much more!
*
Time stamps:
(00:00) Zeke Faux, the author of “Number Go Up” joins Jason (3:58) Meeting Sam Bankman-Fried in the Bahamas and first impressions (10:23) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist (11:30) SBF, his colleagues, and a hint of substance abuse
(16:22) The group psychosis and how they learned to play the game (24:51) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist (26:13) Operations and red flags at Tether (35:44) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech (37:15) Revisiting Zeke’s investigative journalism in Cambodia (44:16) From organized crime to legitimate business (46:59) Terra Luna (49:05) The VC perspective and regulations in place
*
Buy Number Go Up: https://www.amazon.com/Number-Go-Up-Cryptos-Staggering/dp/0593443810
FOLLOW Zeke: https://twitter.com/ZekeFaux
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at openphone.com/twist.
Embroker. The Embroker Startup Insurance Program helps startups secure the most important types of insurance at a lower cost and with less hassle. Save up to 20% off of traditional insurance today at Embroker.com/twist. While you’re there, get an extra 10% off using offer code TWIST.
LinkSquares. Life for in-house legal just got a whole lot easier. From contract creation to execution and more, LinkSquares is the go-to for all your legal needs. Learn more at linksquares.com/twist.
*
Today’s show:
Palo Alto Networks CEO Nikesh Arora joins Jason to discuss his time as head of Google Europe (2:26), strategies learned from Larry Page (15:23), precision AI’s role in cybersecurity (43:14), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Palo Alto Networks CEO Nikesh Arora joins Jason
(2:26) Becoming head of Google Europe and meeting Eric Schmidt, Larry Page and Sergey Brin
(10:15) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://openphone.com/twist
(11:46) Maintaining Google’s culture in Europe and the hiring process
(15:23) Applying strategies learned from Larry Page to Palo Alto Networks
(17:59) Sub-categories of EQ manifested in the workplace
(22:12) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(23:41) What led Nikesh to be CEO of one of the top Cybersecurity firms
(30:24) Cybersecurity against artificial intelligence
(35:31) The SEC’s mandate on breach reporting
(38:35) LinkSquares - The go-to for all your legal needs, learn more at https://linksquares.com/twist
(39:51) The SEC’s mandate on breach reporting continued
(45:54) Gains from AI and what it means for organizations
(43:14) Precision AI’s role in security
(53:14) The future of AI technology and the battle of the chatbots
(57:41) Nikesh’s time at SoftBank working directly with Masayoshi Son
*
FOLLOW Nikesh: https://twitter.com/nikesharora
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Embroker. The Embroker Startup Insurance Program helps startups secure the most important types of insurance at a lower cost and with less hassle. Save up to 20% off of traditional insurance today at Embroker.com/twist. While you’re there, get an extra 10% off using offer code TWIST.
.Tech domains are the go-to namespace to build anything in tech… and home to the world’s most innovative startups. Secure your .Tech domain today and lock down a 1-year domain for $10, or a 5-year domain for $50 at https://go.tech/TWIST today!
Plunge. Go to https://plunge.com and use code twist150 for $150 off your cold plunge tub.
*
Today’s show:
Poshmark CEO Manish Chandra joins Jason to discuss the expansion of the “Circular Economy” (2:47), consumer-to-consumer shopping (18:30), building a community with Poshmark (32:59), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Poshmark CEO Manish Chandra joins Jason
(2:47) The expansion of the "Circular Economy" and what drives consumers towards Poshmark
(6:31) The most popular shopping categories and Poshmark’s day one vision
(11:51) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(13:20) Impact of the fast fashion movement
(20:56) Global shipping and areas for optimization
(24:38) Poshmark introducing live shows
(27:04) .Tech Domains - Apply to get your startup featured on This Week in Startups at https://startups.tech/jason
(28:12) The social shopping space
(32:59) Important factors in building a community
(37:52) Plunge - Go to https://plunge.com and use code twist150 for $150 off
(39:20) Lessons learned from Manish’s entrepreneurial journey
*
FOLLOW Manish: https://twitter.com/marrc
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Supergut is the easiest and tastiest way clinically-proven to regulate digestion, curb cravings, and boost energy. Get 30% off their delicious shakes, bars, and fiber mix at Supergut.com with code TWIST.
Coda. A new doc that brings words, tables and teams together. All your valuable data, plans, objectives, and strategies in one place. Go to https://coda.io/twist to get a $1,000 credit!
Mercury. 90 percent of startups fail — 90 percent. Just 10 out of every 100 make it. Mercury exists to close that gap — helping companies succeed with banking and credit cards engineered for the startup journey. Join over 100,000 companies banking with Mercury at http://mercury.com
*
Today’s show:Roelof Botha joins Jason to discuss the state of VC (3:35), Sequoia’s new series “Crucible Moments” (9:31), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Sequoia Capital’s Roelof Botha joins Jason
(3:35) The state of the Silicon Valley ecosystem
(8:00) Supergut - Get 30% off with code TWIST at https://supergut.com
(9:31) “Crucible Moments” and their significance
(14:31) Pre-IPO vs. Post-IPO market values
(18:10) Founder ambition and mistakes made during “Crucible Moments”
(22:25) The importance of founders starting narrow and what makes a great VC in tech
(27:20) Coda - Get a $1,000 startup credit at https://coda.io/twist
(28:49) Commonalities between the AI boom and the crypto boom
(33:31) U.S. frameworks regarding crypto
(37:10) Mercury - Join 100K+ startups banking with Mercury at http://mercury.com
(38:23) The milestone-based reward system in venture capital
(43:24) Taking over as head steward at Sequoia Capital
(56:02) “Crucible Moments” at Sequoia
(1:05:57) Maintaining consistency in life and venture
*
FOLLOW Roelof: https://twitter.com/roelofbotha
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
House of Macadamias is the next big health trend! Get 20% off your first purchase and a free box of Namibian Sea Salted Macadamia Nuts at houseofmacadamias.com/twist by using code twist20!
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at vanta.com/twist
Fitbod. Tired of doing the same workouts at the gym? Fitbod will build you personalized workouts that help you progress with every set. Get 25% off your subscription or try out the app for FREE when you sign up now at fitbod.me/TWIST.
*
Today’s show:
SaaSGrid Co-Founders Ethan Ruby and David Sacks join Jason to demo SaaSGrid and break down the solution it provides for founders (3:12). They also cover the software recession (26;18), AI’s impact on SaaS (36:41), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) David Sacks and Ethan Ruby join Jason
(3:12) The solution SaaSGrid provides for founders
(7:02) Ethan demos SaaSGrid
(9:25) House of Macadamias - Get 20% off and a free box of Namibian Sea Salted Macadamia Nuts at https://houseofmacadamias.com/twist by using code TWIST20
(10:45) Burn multiple and startup efficiency
(16:27) Fixed cost of a SaaS business today and major roadblocks in SaaS
(20:40) Determining target customers and when outbound makes sense
(25:10) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(26:18) Headwinds against SaaS and the software recession
(30:12) The MRR chart and analyzing contraction and churn
(35:13) Fitbod - Get 25% off at https://fitbod.me/twist
(36:41) AI’s impact on SaaS companies
(41:47) The ZIRP/COVID-19 bubble and founders skipping funding rounds
(44:37) The 3 MOST important things for SaaS companies to pay attention to
*
Check out SaaSGrid: https://www.saasgrid.com/
FOLLOW Ethan: https://twitter.com/ethanjruby
FOLLOW David: https://twitter.com/DavidSacks
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
LinkSquares. Life for in-house legal just got a whole lot easier. From contract creation to execution and more, LinkSquares is the go-to for all your legal needs. Learn more at https://linksquares.com/twist
LinkedIn Marketing. To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to https://LinkedIn.com/nextunicorn
Roots. Invest in the only real estate investment trust that creates wealth for you and its residents at https://investwithroots.com/twist
*
Today’s show:
Sardine CEO and Co-Founder Soups Ranjan joins Jason to discuss the potential harms of generative AI re: fraud (9:53), the value of intrinsic AI (29:48), Sardine's fraud-prevention solution (26:02), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Sardine CEO Soups Ranjan joins Jason
(6:11) What Soups learned from his time as Coinbase’s director of risk management and data science
(8:36) LinkSquares - The go-to for all your legal needs. Learn more at https://linksquares.com/twist
(9:53) Fraud in finance and spotting bad actors
(15:03) “Pig Butchering” scams and Kitboga’s crackdown
(24:35) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/nextunicorn
(26:02) Using machine learning to prevent future fraud
(29:48) Extrinsic AI vs. intrinsic AI and doomsday scenarios
(33:53) What sets Sardine apart from other companies
(35:19) Roots - Head to https://investwithroots.com/TWIST to sign up and start investing today!
(36:53) Overlap in techniques, actors, etc. in fraud protection
*
Check out Sardine: https://www.sardine.ai/
FOLLOW Soups: https://twitter.com/soupsranjan
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers, get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at openphone.com/twist
LinkedIn Jobs. A business is only as strong as its people, and every hire matters. Go to LinkedIn.com/TWIST to post your first job for free. Terms and conditions apply.
*
Today’s show:
Vital Biosciences CEO Vasu Nadella joins Jason to discuss exactly how Vital’s “VitalOne” conducts 50+ blood tests with a small sample of blood (9:16), building investor trust in the wake of past industry failures (18:45), creating accessible care (40:35), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Vital Biosciences CEO and Co-Founder Vasu Nadella joins Jason
(1:18) Theranos’ background and what prompted Vasu to pursuit
(7:56) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(9:16) Vasu demos how the VitalOne works, lessons learned on Vital’s journey
(18:45) Scaling the company, raising a war chest, building trust in the product, benchmarking and governance for labs
(27:36) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://openphone.com/twist
(29:07) State of lab robotics, paths for incorporating AI into Vital’s technology, benefits of converging technologies
(39:16) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(40:35) Creating accessible modern lab testing
(45:38) Consumer behavior and the outcome of consumers controlling spend
*
Check out Vital Bio: https://vitalbio.com
FOLLOW Vasu: https://twitter.com/vasunadella
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
Supergut is the only nutrition brand clinically-proven to improve digestion, balance blood sugar, sustain energy, and manage weight. Save 25% on their delicious shakes, bars, and prebiotic mix at Supergut.com with code TWIST.
Miro. Working remotely doesn’t mean you need to feel disconnected from your team. Miro is an online whiteboard that brings teams together - anytime, anywhere. Go to https://miro.com/startups to sign up for a FREE account with unlimited team members.
*
Today’s show:
Atlassian Co-CEO Scott Farquhar joins Jason to break down how he and his Co-Founder bootstrapped Atlassian to an IPO (1:34), his lessons from acquiring, growing and eventually selling HipChat (13:43), thoughts on product-led growth (29:27), generative AI tools for the enterprise (39:43), and more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Atlassian Co-CEO Scott Farquhar joins Jason!
(1:34) Atlassian origins, bootstrapping to IPO
(12:22) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(13:43) Lessons from HipChat: Acquiring and growing the service, selling to Slack, what Scott would do differently
(19:39) Atlassian's two playbooks: bootstrapping and aggressive growth
(27:57) Supergut - Get 25% off with code TWIST at https://supergut.com
(29:27) How product-led growth leads to a sharper product team, how Atlassian is thinking about LLMs and generative AI
(38:20) Miro - Sign up for a free account at https://miro.com/startups
(39:43) Remaining flexible re: AI tools, utilizing customer data, when to expect major knowledge work breakthroughs in AI
(47:27) How Scott thinks about AI, remote work, and efficiency
(1:01:39) Staying motivated in Atlassian's third decade
*
Check out Atlassian: https://www.atlassian.com
FOLLOW Scott: https://twitter.com/scottfarkas
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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*
Today’s show:
Loyal CEO and Founder Celine Halioua joins Jason to discuss developing drugs that delay dog aging (10:19), lessons learned as a solo founder (49:34), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Loyal CEO Celine Halioua joins Jason
(1:43) The human dream of achieving life extension
(4:37) Celine’s background
(8:48) Fount - Get $500 off at https://fount.bio/twist
(10:19) Why Celine decided to start with a focus on dogs
(16:43) Wegovy, Ozempic, and the category of drugs that Loyal is developing
(20:44) Breaking down how the drugs work and the consequences of selective breeding
(24:21) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/unicorn
(25:36) Stem cell therapy and the placebo effect
(33:29) Environmental factors to consider in drug development
(37:05) The path to commercialization
(39:27) Catalog - Get $1200 off right now at https://trycatalog.com/twist
(40:56) Staying intellectually curious and the path to commercialization continued
(46:11) Hitting Series A milestones with less than $500K of the original $5M raised in seed round
(49:34) Lessons learned as a solo founder
*
Follow Celine: https://twitter.com/celinehalioua
Check out Loyal: https://loyalfordogs.com/
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at vanta.com/twist
Carta now lets you launch and administer SPVs for your syndicate. Share your knowledge, capital, and network to launch your syndicate SPVs through Carta. Get 10% off your first SPV at carta.com/twist with promo code TWIST.
Roots. Invest in the only real estate investment trust that creates wealth for you and its residents at investwithroots.com/twist
*
Today’s show:
Jason breaks down the exit market for LPs (8:57), Instacart and Klaviyo’s IPOs (22:13), writers suing OpenAI and Meta (50:15), and more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Producer Nick joins Jason
(2:27) The significance of Instacart and Klaviyo’s IPO filings
(5:41) The VC exit market
(7:50) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(8:57) The exit market for LPs and over-indexing in venture
(13:57) VC bloat and current state of the market
(20:39) Carta - Get 10% off your first SPV at https://carta.com/twist with promo code TWIST
(22:13) Breaking down Instacart’s S-1
(28:56) Ad dollars moving to new platforms and the importance of being close to the sale
(33:26) Instacart GTV tail off
(36:30) Roots - Head to investwithroots.com/TWIST to sign up and start investing today!
(38:03) Breaking down Klaviyo’s S-1
(44:09) Why it is crucial for founders to retain ownership early on
(50:15) Writers suing OpenAI; are broad-based LLMs trained on tons of data becoming a liability?
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Crowdbotics. Great ideas can change the world, and Crowdbotics is the fastest way to turn those ideas into code. Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at crowdbotics.com/twist
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at openphone.com/twist
Fitbod. Tired of doing the same workouts at the gym? Fitbod will build you personalized workouts that help you progress with every set. Get 25% off your subscription or try out the app for FREE when you sign up now at fitbod.me/TWIST.
*
Today’s show:
Jason breaks down Nvidia smashing its quarterly earnings (3:58), Arm filing its F-1 (26:38), how founders should vet accelerators (56:10), and more! (1:03:53)
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Producer Nick joins Jason
(3:58) Nvidia obliterating their Q2 earnings
(8:33) Crowdbotics - Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at crowdbotics.com/twist
(10:01) The earnings report’s effects on stock, induced traffic, and the “sell the news” strategy
(16:02) Breaking down the numbers and the market cap chart
(21:31) Overcorrection in big tech companies, the rolling recession, and Nvidia as a momentum stock
(25:07) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://openphone.com/twist
(26:38)Arm filing its F-1 and SoftBank’s deal with Vision Fund
(34:39) Arm’s business model and the risks of whale customers
(37:53) Fitbod - Get 25% off at https://fitbod.me/twist
(39:22) Arm China’s risk to Arm
(46:17) The role of startup accelerators
(49:36) The constant complaints about YC valuations on YC demo day
(53:40) How raising at too high a valuation can lead to getting caught in a valuation trap
(56:10) The Fulcrum venture accelerator “scam” and how founders should vet accelerators
(1:03:53) The greatest bag securer of all time!
(1:13:41) Ryan Breslow’s “corporate wrongdoing”
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers, get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at vanta.com/twist
LinkedIn Marketing. To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to LinkedIn.com/nextunicorn
*
Today’s show:
Covariant CEO Peter Chen joins Jason to discuss the future of AI in robotics (1:33), the key concepts of reinforcement learning (13:50), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Covariant CEO Peter Chen joins Jason
(1:33) AI’s role in robotics and its value in e-commerce warehouses
(7:38) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(8:59) Reinforcement learning today and the AlphaGo moment
(13:50) The 2 key concepts of reinforcement learning
(17:35) Approaches to accessing data for AI in robotics
(20:35) Robotics hardware
(22:50) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(23:57) Covariant's hardware and software in use
(27:32) The importance of adaptability
(32:40) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/nextunicorn
(34:08) The Tesla Optimus and humanoid robots
(39:58) Overcoming hardware constraints
(44:38) Boomerang investors and customers
*
Follow Peter: https://twitter.com/peterxichen
Check out Covariant : https://covariant.ai/
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Embroker. The Embroker Startup Insurance Program helps startups secure the most important types of insurance at a lower cost and with less hassle. Save up to 20% off of traditional insurance today at Embroker.com/twist. While you’re there, get an extra 10% off using offer code TWIST. MasterClass. Learn from the world’s best minds - anytime, anywhere, and at your own pace. Get 15% off an annual membership to MasterClass at masterclass.com/startups Roots. Invest in the only real estate investment trust that creates wealth for you and its residents at investwithroots.com/twist *
Today’s show:
Sunny Madra joins Jason to discuss Nvidia’s upcoming earnings and if the company is overvalued (1:08). Then, Sunny demos more AI tools, including an incredible AI dubbing product (16:43)!
*
Time stamps:(00:00) Sunny Madra joins Jason (1:08) Is Nvidia overvalued? (6:05) Leveraging hardware gains (9:46) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist (11:02) Nvidia’s price targets and why Jason would not Jay Trade it (16:43) Sunny demos rask.ai (18:50) AI voice dubbing (26:18) MasterClass - Get 15% off an annual membership at https://masterclass.com/startups (27:51) Sunny demos a reconstructed Pink Floyd song from brain recordings (33:28) Sunny demos GodMode (37:43) Roots - Head to investwithroots.com/TWIST to sign up and start investing today! (39:20) Sunny demos Pluto.fi
(46:34) Content theft and Sunny demos PlayHT (55:47) Sunny’s X experiment
*
Follow Sunny: https://twitter.com/sundeep Check out : https://app.rask.ai/
Check out GodMode: https://github.com/smol-ai/GodMode/releases/tag/v1.0.0-beta.2 Check out the Pink Floyd brain recording: https://news.berkeley.edu/2023/08/15/releases-20230811 Check out Pluto.fi: https://www.pluto.fi/ Check out PlayHT: https://play.ht/
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at openphone.com/twist
Crowdbotics. Great ideas can change the world, and Crowdbotics is the fastest way to turn those ideas into code. Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at crowdbotics.com/twist
Carta now lets you launch and administer SPVs for your syndicate. Share your knowledge, capital, and network to launch your syndicate SPVs through Carta. Get 10% off your first SPV at carta.com/twist with promo code TWIST.
*
Today’s show:
Inflection AI CEO Mustafa Suleyman joins Jason to discuss DeepMind’s influence on AI (1:17), the hardware revolution (26:27), the foundation of Inflection AI (49:45), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Inflection’s CEO Mustafa Suleyman joins Jason
(1:17) Life before DeepMind
(8:34) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://openphone.com/twist
(10:05) DeepMind’s origin story
(15:58) The pitch to Peter Thiel and feedback from early investors
(19:34) DeepMind’s first project
(24:59) Crowdbotics - Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at crowdbotics.com/twist
(26:27) The hardware revolution and growth in computing
(30:15) DeepMind’s acquisition by Google and strategy for building an elite team
(34:14) Major achievements at Google
(37:49) Carta - Get 10% off your first SPV at https://carta.com/twist with promo code TWIST
(39:22) Google’s cautious approach to releasing an AI product
(44:59) Regulatory issues and fair compensation
(49:45) The foundation of Inflection AI
(59:50) The downsides of AI and Mustafa’s book, The Coming Wave
(1:08:58) Complacency in tech and Mustafa’s thoughts on remote work
*
Follow Mustafa: https://twitter.com/mustafasuleyman
Check out Inflection AI: https://inflection.ai
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at vanta.com/twist
CLA. Innovation takes balance. CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors can help you get from startup to where you want to end up. Get started now at CLAconnect.com/tech
LinkedIn Jobs. A business is only as strong as its people, and every hire matters. Go to http://linkedin.com/unicorn to post your first job for free. Terms and conditions apply.
*
Today’s show:
Varda’s Delian Asparouhov is back with Jason to discuss Varda (18:43), his insights on different aspects of venture capital (1:41), the shifts in silicon valley culture (11:56), and much more! Then, Jason is joined by Argyle CEO Maret Thatcher to discuss how her startup is using AR headsets to make construction PMs faster and more efficient. (58:27)
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Varda President and Co-Founder Delian Asparouhov joins Jason
(1:41) Delian’s insights on different aspects of venture capital
(8:35) Defense tech and silicon valley’s aversion to military
(10:48) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(11:56) The shift in silicon valley culture
(14:39) Culture wars and keeping everyone focused
(18:43) The inception of Varda
(23:15) Varda’s first provisions and overall mission
(27:14) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech
(28:31) The customer base and transporting cargo into space
(33:14) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/unicorn
(34:30) Proving this is a sustainable business and “induced demand” in this area
(47:21) Government engagement in the startup community
(50:53) Progress around the globe and U.S. relationship with China
(58:27) Argyle CEO Maret Thatcher joins Jason
(1:03:50) Argyle’s product and Magic Leap’s role
(1:07:42) Video examples of the product in the field
(1:09:09) The customer base and how designs are rendered
(1:22:25) Business model and live demo of Argyle's UI
*
Follow Delian: https://twitter.com/zebulgar
Check out Varda: https://www.varda.com
Follow Maret: https://twitter.com/MaretSheWrote
Check out Argyle: https://www.argyle.build
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Embroker. The Embroker Startup Insurance Program helps startups secure the most important types of insurance at a lower cost and with less hassle. Save up to 20% off of traditional insurance today at Embroker.com/twist. While you’re there, get an extra 10% off using offer code TWIST.
Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers, get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist.
Eight Sleep. Good sleep is the ultimate game changer. Now you can add the Pod Cover to any mattress! Go to eightsleep.com/twist to check out the Pod Cover and get $150 off at checkout!
*
Today’s show:
First up, Sunny Madra is back to discuss the “AI wrapper” stigma, the first official demo-to-investment, and demo more useful AI products! (2:41) Then, Tonebase CEO Igor Lichtmann joins to demo his product, break down how he achieved product-market fit while maintaining capital efficiency, and more! (42:47)
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Sunny Madra is back for more AI demos!
(2:41) The “AI wrapper" debate; VenturusAI is joining the LAUNCH Accelerator as the first full-circle demo-to-investment
(10:09) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(11:23) Klap.app turns YouTube links into multiple TikTok-style videos with captions and ranks them on "Virality Score"
(19:08) Kickresume uses generative AI tools to help users build a fully-fleshed out resumes and prepare for job interviews
(25:15) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(26:34) Browse AI helps users build AI-powered web scraping/data extraction bots with no code
(34:16) Oppwiser is an AI-powered lead gen platform for sales teams
(41:16) Eight Sleep - Go to https://eightsleep.com/twist to check out the Pod Cover and get $150 off at checkout!
(42:47) Tonebase CEO Igor Lichtmann joins to demo his music education startup, break down how he achieved product-market fit while maintaining capital efficiency, and more!
*
Check out Tonebase: https://tonebase.co
Follow Sunny: https://twitter.com/sundeep
Check out Klap: https://klap.app
Check out Kickresume: https://www.kickresume.com
Check out: Browse AI: https://www.browse.ai
Check out Oppwiser: https://oppwiser.com
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Crowdbotics. Great ideas can change the world, and Crowdbotics is the fastest way to turn those ideas into code. Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at crowdbotics.com/twist
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at openphone.com/twist
Fitbod. Tired of doing the same workouts at the gym? Fitbod will build you personalized workouts that help you progress with every set. Get 25% off your subscription or try out the app for FREE when you sign up now at fitbod.me/TWIST.
*
Today’s show:
Rich Barton joins Jason to give a masterclass on his thought process behind creating evocative top-tier brands like Zillow, Expedia, and Glassdoor. (22:02) Rich also discusses the lessons he learned from Bill Gates during his time at Microsoft (49:22), how tech management has evolved (57:04), and more!
Rich's blog on branding: https://www.hopperanddropper.com/syllables-scrabble-letters-and-picking-brand-names
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Zillow CEO Rich Barton joins Jason
(1:58) The creation of Zillow’s Zestimate
(7:03) “Tension and Importance” and empowering people in the workplace
(13:24) Crowdbotics - Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at crowdbotics.com/twist
(14:53) Branding and creating iconic company names
(16:53) Navigating major layoffs
(22:02) Back to building top-tier brands, “What got us here, won’t get us there”
(27:54) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://openphone.com/twist
(29:25) Steering the complex dynamics of startup-attorney interactions
(33:22) Defying convention to create stellar products and the effects digital currency
(37:54) Fitbod - Get 25% off at https://fitbod.me/twist
(39:23) Innovating in the real estate industry
(49:22) Lessons Rich learned from Bill Gates during his time at Microsoft
(57:04) How tech management has evolved
(1:01:27) How Covid-19 and remote work changed the landscape
(1:07:02) The concept of “iBuying”
(1:10:31) Continuous high-interest rates, “zoom towns”, and the “great reshuffling”
*
Follow Rich: https://twitter.com/Rich_Barton
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
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*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Superside. Design and creative are crucial for growth. Tech companies like Shopify, Amazon, and Meta have found the perfect solution: Superside. Get $2000 off with Superside's Startup Accelerator package superside.com/TWIST
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at vanta.com/twist
LinkedIn Marketing. To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to LinkedIn.com/nextunicorn.
*
Today’s show:
Proprio CEO Gabriel Jones joins Jason to discuss the struggles surgeons face in the operating room today (23:05), the solutions Proprio’s Paradigm system provides (27:14), the future of surgery (37:03), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Proprio CEO Gabriel Jones joins Jason
(2:09) Proprio’s Light Field-Enabled Surgical technology
(7:03) Gabriel demos the Proprio Paradigm robotic computer vision system
(10:26) Superside - Go to https://superside.com/twist to get $2000 off with Superside's Startup Accelerator package
(11:58) Generational shifts in medicine
(18:03) The ultimate impact of this technology
(21:58) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(23:05) The data Proprio operates on and the struggles surgeons face today
(27:14) Bench-top simulation
(32:05) Use of AI and robotics in surgery today
(35:36) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/nextunicorn
(37:03) The choice to utilize Proprio’s technology for spine surgery first
(39:03) Reducing the time needed to perform surgeries
(44:17) Academia vs. Venture, and the importance of “proof points” for investors
(46:44) The FDA approval process
*
Check out Proprio: https://www.propriovision.com/
Follow Gabriel: https://twitter.com/aGabrielJones
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by… Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers, get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist Embroker. The Embroker Startup Insurance Program helps startups secure the most important types of insurance at a lower cost and with less hassle. Save up to 20% off of traditional insurance today at Embroker.com/twist. While you’re there, get an extra 10% off using offer code TWIST. House of Macadamias is the next big health trend! Get 20% off your first purchase and a free box of Namibian Sea Salted Macadamia Nuts at houseofmacadamias.com/twist by using code twist20! *
Today’s show:
First up, Sunny Madra joins Jason to demo some new AI tools, including auto-generated articles, social clips, and ChatGPT’s newest feature. (3:50) Then, Jason sees pitches from three recent Founder University graduates and invests $25K in one of their startups! (40:33)
Time stamps: (00:00) Sunny joins Jason (2:20) The pace of progress in the industry and influx of AI startups (3:50) Sunny demos byword.ai (9:58) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(11:19) Building a company today and improving LLMs (17:21) Sunny demos Submagic (23:53) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(25:09)Sunny demos ChatGPT’s new Custom Instructions feature
(29:40) TWiST's "all-star" summer and brief TWiST history (39:13) House of Macadamias - Get 20% off and a free box of Namibian Sea Salted Macadamia Nuts at https://houseofmacadamias.com/twist by using code TWIST20 (40:33) Jason and Kelly kick off another $25K startup pitch competition! (44:13) Rami pitches Querio.ai (49:18) Batuhan pitches BeforeSunset.ai (59:54) Allen Pitches Semanttic (1:07:03) Kelly and Jason share thoughts, then Jason picks a startup! (1:11:34) Q&A with Jason * Check out byword_: https://byword.ai/ Check out Submagic: https://www.submagic.co Check out Querio.AI: https://www.querio.ai Check out BeforeSunset.AI: https://www.beforesunset.ai Check out Semanttic: https://www.semanttic.com/ Follow Sunny: https://twitter.com/sundeep *
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
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OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at openphone.com/twist
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Superside. Design and creative are crucial for growth. Tech companies like Shopify, Amazon, and Meta have found the perfect solution: Superside. Get $2000 off with Superside's Startup Accelerator package superside.com/TWIST
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Today’s show:
Varda CEO Delian Asparouhov and R&D head Andrew McCalip join Jason to break down their recent experiment in replicating the LK-99 room-temp superconductor (4:19), the current state of material science (18;52), what the world would look like if this works (26:34), and more. Then, Krepling’s Liam Gerada joins Jason for an update on his business! (40:46)
*
Time stamps:
(00:00) Varda CEO Delian Asparouhov and R&D head Andrew McCalip join Jason
(1:21) The LK-99 superconductor and how Varda is involved
(4:19) Varda’s latest achievements in replicating the LK-99 superconductor
(8:05) Is this the real deal or just a strong diamagnetic effect
(11:00) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://openphone.com/twist
(12:30) Securing the material needed to run these experiments
(14:06) The increased interest in Varda and feedback from the community
(18:52) The culture shift in the tech industry
(25:06) Crowdbotics - Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at crowdbotics.com/twist
(26:34) Brute force science: How innovation emerges and receives funding
(30:17) How the venture model has continued to evolve
(24:28) Superside - Go to https://superside.com/twist to get $2000 off with Superside's Startup Accelerator package
(36:00) Questions from the live audience
(40:46) Krepling’s Liam Gerada joins Jason for an update on his business!
*
Check out Varda: https://varda.com
Follow Delian: https://twitter.com/zebulgar
Follow Andrew: https://twitter.com/andrewmccalip
*
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Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
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Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
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*
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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
Today’s show:
Wilson Sonsini partner Adam Shevell joins Jason to discuss gaining access to datasets (1:10), fair use in copyright cases (6:29), and more!
*
Time stamps: (00:00) Wilson Sonsini partner Adam Shevell joins Jason (1:10) Gaining access to datasets, avoiding copyright infringement, and why IP is protected (6:29) The concept of fair use and when it applies (11:26) What new founders should pay attention to (14:59) The Github case (17:42) Proper strategy for getting permission (22:56) How startups get crushed with legal bills (23:32) The Andy Warhol supreme court case * Check out Wilson Sonsini: https://www.wsgr.com *
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
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*
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*
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Today’s show:
Lightmatter CEO Nick Harris joins Jason to discuss how his startup is revolutionizing the future of computing with photonic chips (1:48), the challenges of building the next-generation AI hardware (18:35), and more!
*
Time stamps:
(00:00) Lightmatter CEO Nick Harris joins Jason
(1:48) Photonic computing and the optic engines involved
(5:08) Lightmatter’s background and customer base
(9:24) The impact of this technology
(11:38) Carta - Get 10% off your first SPV at https://carta.com with promo code TWIST
(13:12) Catching up to demand and the endgame for process tech in semiconductors
(15:37) Using AI tools to build AI chips and the potential of data centers in space
(18:35) Fixing issues associated with advanced chips and supercomputers
(21:58) Eight Sleep - Go to https://eightsleep.com/twist to check out the Pod Cover and get $150 off at
checkout!
(23:30) Where we are on the path to AGI
(26:17) Nick’s background in quantum computing
(29:15) The LK-99 superconductor
(33:42) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://LinkedIn.com/unicorn
(34:58) Scientists gaining recognition and the app diversion
(40:17) LinkSquares CEO Vishal Sunak on going from $1M to $10M in ARR in 2 years
*
Follow Nick: https://twitter.com/theanalognick
Check out Lightmatter: https://lightmatter.co
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by… Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at vanta.com/twist CLA. Innovation takes balance. Our CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors can help you get from startup to where you want to end up. Get started now at CLAconnect.com/tech Notion just launched Notion Projects, which includes new, powerful ways to manage projects and leverage the power of their built-in AI features too. Try it for free today at notion.com/twist. *
Today’s show:
Whoop Founder and CEO Will Ahmed joins Jason to discuss Whoop’s journey (1;50), the driving paradigm behind Whoop’s innovative product designs (31:38), the future of wearable tech (41:26), and more!
*
Time stamps: (00:00) Whoop Founder and CEO Will Ahmed joins Jason (1:50) The “Quantified Self” movement and features that set Whoop’s product apart (4:04) How the device interprets health data and obtains consistent results (7:24) Whoop’s customer base (8:52) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist (9:59) The decision to pivot to a subscription business model (14:31) Amazon turning from potential investor to failed copy-cat competitor (20:09) Incorporating new strategies into the business (24:49) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech (26:21) Developments since the product’s inception (31:38) Whoop Body and the driving paradigm behind the product design (40:00) Notion - Try Notion Projects for free today at notion.com/twist (41:26) What lies ahead and the future of wearable tech (44:47) The ability to share the recorded health data (47:20) AI utilizing large health datasets and the Whoop Journal * Follow Will: https://twitter.com/willahmed
Check out Whoop: https://www.whoop.com *
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at openphone.com/twist
Roots. Invest in the only real estate investment trust that creates wealth for you and its residents at investwithroots.com/twist
*
Today’s show:
Sunny Madra joins Jason to discuss Fable Simulation's new AI showrunner (5:51), AI-powered note-takers and CRMs( 37:25), and more!
*
Time stamps:
(00:00) Sunny Madra joins Jason
(2:27) Using AI to analyze large datasets
(5:51) The WGA strike and Fable Studios’ AI-generated South Park episode
(12:29) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(13:45) AI-generated South Park continued
(16:58) What is lost with AI and the Modern Seinfeld Twitter account
(23:40) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://openphone.com/twist
(25:10) The pace of innovation with RunwayML
(31:06) Production studios sharing the wealth & alternative plans
(36:00) Roots - Head to investwithroots.com/TWIST to sign up and start investing today!
(37:25) Sunny showcases Folk app’s CRM
(45:29) Sunny demos Circleback
(51:32) Using Claude to break down an investor presentation and Sergey Brin back at Google
*
Follow Sunny: https://twitter.com/sundeep
Check out Circleback: https://circleback.ai
Check out Folk.app: https://www.folk.app
Check out RunwayML: https://runwayml.com
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
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*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
Today’s show:
Wilson Sonsini Partner Becki DeGraw joins Jason on the latest edition of Startup Legal Basics! In this episode, they discuss the contrast between late-stage and seed-stage investing(2:52), repricing stock options(5:48), the adoption of AI legal industry(23:29), and much more!
*
Time stamps: (00:00) Wilson Sonsini Partner Becki DeGraw joins Jason (1:19) The increase in tech layoffs and AI startups (2:52) Late-stage vs. early-stage investing and the seed-stage value chart (5:48) Repricing stock options when underwater (14:05) Disclosing revenue, burn rate, and growth rate (18:08) RIFs and knowing your employees (20:57) The long-term effects of remote work (23:29) The use of AI and chatbots in law
*
Check out Wilson Sonsini: https://www.wsgr.com *
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
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*
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by… Crowdbotics. Great ideas can change the world, and Crowdbotics is the fastest way to turn those ideas into code. Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at crowdbotics.com/twist Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at vanta.com/twist LinkedIn Marketing. To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups *
Today’s show:
Abridge CEO Shiv Rao joins Jason to discuss how his AI platform saves doctors time by automating consultation note-taking(8:29), the future of the medical field(37:23), and much more!
*
Time stamps: (00:00) Abridge CEO and Co-Founder Dr. Shiv Rao joins Jason (3:22) Abridge's journey and tailwinds in the industry (6:43) The sudden advancement in AI tech (8:29) The importance of conversation in healthcare (12:00) Crowdbotics - Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at crowdbotics.com/twist (13:29) Dr. Shiv demos Abridge (21:49) Reinforcement training and building trustworthy models (23:10) Use of this product in the field and feedback from clinics (26:53) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist (28:00) Time saved using Abridge (30:30) How patients interact with Abridge and data privacy (35:56) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups (37:23) The future of the medical field (49:11) The pace of healthcare today
*
Check out Abridge: https://www.abridge.com/ Follow Dr. Shiv: https://twitter.com/shivdevrao *
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
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*
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*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at openphone.com/twist
Embroker. The Embroker Startup Insurance Program helps startups secure the most important types of insurance at a lower cost and with less hassle. Save up to 20% off of traditional insurance today at Embroker.com/twist. While you’re there, get an extra 10% off using offer code TWIST.
Roots is a real estate investment platform for all investors. There are no entry fees, and you can start with as little as $100. Head to investwithroots.com/TWIST to sign up and start investing today!
*
Today’s show:
MongoDB CEO Dev Ittycheria joins Jason to discuss recent tech trends (10:58), the move towards remote work (17:58), his strategy for building winning teams (37:17), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(00:00) MongoDB CEO Dev Ittycheria joins Jason
(2:32) Dev’s background and how MongoDB operates
(9:28) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://openphone.com/twist
(10:58) The last 9 months in tech and the pace of AI
(13:57) RIFs and staffing a modern-day tech company
(17:58) Remote, Hybrid, or back to the office
(22:25) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(25:33) Hiring and inspiring the next generation
(28:47) The trust but verify operating philosophy
(31:32) Entitlement in the tech industry
(35:52) Roots - Head to investwithroots.com/TWIST to sign up and start investing today!
(37:17) Great leadership and managing a team
(41:14) Bad management and the feedback cycle
(53:30) Recruiting talent in the U.S.
*
Check out MongoDB: https://www.mongodb.com
Follow Dev: https://twitter.com/dittycheria
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
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*
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*
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
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Superside. Design and creative are crucial for growth. Tech companies like Shopify, Amazon, and Meta have found the perfect solution: Superside. Get $2000 off with Superside's Startup Accelerator package superside.com/TWIST.
*
Today’s show:
Ryan Smith joins Jason to discuss buying the Utah Jazz while simultaneously prepping for an IPO (3:19), Qualtrics going from IPO prep to acquired to spin out IPO to a take-private in under five years (58:56), his thoughts on AI’s impact (49:12), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(00:00) Qualtics Co-Founder Ryan Smith joins Jason
(3:19) Ryan’s decision to buy the Utah Jazz NBA team
(9:05) The Rudy Gorbet Utah Jazz deal
(12:05) Fin - Try Fin, Intercom's new AI customer support chatbot, at https://intercom.com/f
(12:46) The process of owning an NBA team while prepping for an IPO
(21:09) The impact of the midseason tournament
(23:30) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(24:50) Providing a better user experience with free-to-watch games in Utah
(26:37) Paradigm shifts in media and building an NBA media giant
(36:10) The importance of going direct in media
(39:52) Superside - Go to https://superside.com/twist to get $2000 off with Superside's Startup Accelerator package
(41:24) Qualtrics’ product evolution
(49:12) Ryan’s thoughts on AI’s impact on business
(54:49) Job displacement as a result of AI
(58:56) Qualtrics going from IPO prep to acquired to spin out IPO to a take-private in under five years
(1:03:31) The change in approach to private vs public businesses
*
Check out Qualtrics: https://www.qualtrics.com/
Follow Ryan: https://twitter.com/RyanQualtrics
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
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*
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*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by… Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at vanta.com/twist Crowdbotics. Great ideas can change the world, and Crowdbotics is the fastest way to turn those ideas into code. Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at crowdbotics.com/twist Fitbod. Tired of doing the same workouts at the gym? Fitbod will build you personalized workouts that help you progress with every set. Get 25% off your subscription or try out the app for FREE when you sign up now at fitbod.me/TWIST. *
Today’s show:
HubSpot CTO Dharmesh Shah joins Jason to discuss his angel investing origin and strategies (2:36), HubSpot’s journey from a startup to a public company (6:19), the potential of generative AI (42:03), and much more!
*
Time stamps: (00:00) HubSpot Co-Founder and CTO Dharmesh Shah joins Jason (2:36) Dharmesh explains what prompted his angel investing journey (6:19) HubSpots journey from startup to where it stands today (8:48) Dharmesh’s decision to focus on Small Minus Big (SMB) investing (11:12) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist (12:19) SMB investing conversation continued (16:08) The difference in cycles between big and small businesses (17:45) The best reason to start a company (21:25) Ways to go about assessing ideas (23:29) Crowdbotics - Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at crowdbotics.com/twist (28:34) Breaking down the entrepreneurial work ethic (34:15) Anticapitalist sentiment in the U.S. (38:11) Fitbod - Get 25% off at https://fitbod.me/twist (39:40) Starting a business in a downturn (42:03) AI’s impact on business and Business Process Automation (BPA) (46:39) Dharmesh’s thoughts on the next stage of AI and the effect on jobs (54:41) How AI will lead to more efficient organizations and increase margins
*
Follow Dharmesh: https://twitter.com/dharmesh *
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
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*
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*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
Todays show:
Wilson Sonsini Partner Becki DeGraw joins Jason on the latest edition of Startup Legal Basics! In this episode, they break down legal standards in the startup ecosystem(2:19), SAFE agreements and convertible notes(5:41), conflicts faced by founders and investors(20:58), and much more!
Time Stamps:
(00:00) Wilson Sonsini Partner Becki DeGraw joins Jason
(2:19) Breaking the box or sticking to widely accepted frameworks
(3:47) General trends and the adoption of safe agreements
(5:41) Differences between SAFE agreements and convertible notes
(10:34) Companies that raised high valuations during a hot market and need to raise funds again
(15:43) The impact of down rounds and pay-to-play provisions on investors, founders, and employees
(20:58) Conflicts faced by founders, existing investors, and new investors
(27:58) Surviving down markets
*
Check Out Wilson Sonsini: https://www.wsgr.com/en/
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
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Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
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*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by… Eight Sleep. Good sleep is the ultimate game changer. Now you can add the Pod Pro Cover to any mattress! Go to eightsleep.com/twist to check out the Pod Pro Cover and get $150 off at checkout! Carta now lets you launch and administer SPVs for your syndicate. Share your knowledge, capital, and network to launch your syndicate SPVs through Carta. Get 10% off your first SPV at carta.com with promo code TWIST. LinkedIn Marketing. To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups *
Today’s show:
PathAI CEO Andy Beck joins Jason to discuss AI in the medical field (1:58), demos his product, which uses AI to analyze millions of cells (15:37), and much more!
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Time stamps: (00:00) PathAI CEO Andy Beck joins Jason (1:58) How AI aids with health diagnosis (5:46) Analyzing biopsy images and labs switching to digital (7:43) How images and annotations from Pathologists are used to train the AI model (9:58) Eight Sleep - Go to https://eightsleep.com/twist to check out the Pod Cover and get $150 off at checkout! (11:30) Resistance to machine learning in the medical field (15:37) Andy demos PathAI’s AIM-PD-L1 algorithm (21:01) The measure it manage it phase and the road to more effective diagnosis (26:01) Carta - Get 10% off your first SPV at https://carta.com with promo code TWIST (27:27) The past 50 years in cancer diagnosis and looking into the next 10 (33:49) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups (35:05) The use and scale of datasets and creation of systems in a capitalistic society (45:40) How PathAI is able to minimize hardware constraints (48:22) Democratizing access to health expertise
*
Check out PathAI: https://www.pathai.com/ Follow Andy: https://twitter.com/andybeck *
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
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*
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*
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This Week in Startups is brought to you by… Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers, get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
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Superside. Design and creative are crucial for growth. Tech companies like Shopify, Amazon, and Meta have found the perfect solution: Superside. Get $2000 off with Superside's Startup Accelerator package https://www.superside.com/twist *
Today’s show:
Tim Urban joins Jason to break down the road to AGI(15:38), people's trust in organizations(57:31), trends in tech throughout history(25:36), and so much more!
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Time stamps: (00:00) The creator of Wait But Why, Tim Urban joins Jason (1:49) Movies and social media creating dopamine addicts (11:16) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist (12:36) Tim’s “Procrastination” Ted Talk and talks on AI (15:38) Tim’s book and his outlook on framing human history
(22:16) MasterClass - Get 15% off an annual membership at https://masterclass.com/startups (25:36) Trends in tech history and the road to AGI (33:29) The dark paths of AI (37:31) Superside - Go to https://superside.com/twist to get $2000 off with Superside's Startup Accelerator package (41:16) The exciting potential of AI (42:10) Breaking down the human operating system: What happens when there is no longer work? (46:56) The exponential growth of computing (50:26) Why it is difficult to predict the outcome of AI tech (52:35) Gains in AI and expanding our understanding of the universe (57:31) The history of trust in organizations (01:06:21) How to find the truth and how misinformation is spread
*
Check out Wait But Why: https://waitbutwhy.com/ Check out Tim’s Book: https://waitbutwhy.com/whatsourproblem Follow Tim: https://twitter.com/waitbutwhy *
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
.Tech Domains has a new program called startups.tech, where you can get your startup featured on This Week in Startups. Go to https://startups.tech/jason to find out how!
Notion just launched Notion Projects, which includes new, powerful ways to manage projects and leverage the power of their built-in AI features too. Try it for free today at notion.com/twist.
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at openphone.com/twist
*
Today’s show:
Sunny Madra joins Jason to demo 6 awesome AI products and features including Copilot2Trip(4:25), Hoppy Copy(19:40), Stable Doodle(34:31), and much more!
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Time stamps:
(00:00) Sunny Madra joins Jason (4:25)Sunny demos Copilot2Trip’s AI travel assistant (6:30) OpenAI’s fine-tuning ability (11:26) .Tech Domains - Apply to get your startup featured on This Week in Startups at https://startups.tech/jason (12:26) Comparing Copilot2Trip’s itinerary capabilities to Google Bard’s (16:51) What will become of Google Bard and ChatGPT (19:40) Sunny demos Hoppy Copy (24:41) Journalism in the digital era (28:55) Notion - Try Notion Projects for free today at notion.com/twist (31:01) The San Francisco Chronicles article and where AI struggles in journalism (34:31) Sunny demos Stable Doodle (36:32) Bringing back the voice interface (39:42) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://openphone.com/twist (43:01) Google Bard’s new Multimodal capability (50:39) Sunny demos 10Web’s AI website builder
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Check Out Copilot2Trip: https://copilot2trip.com/ Check Out Hoppy Copy: https://www.hoppycopy.co/ Check Out Stable Doodle: https://clipdrop.co/stable-doodle Check Out 10Web: https://10web.io/ Follow Sunny: https://twitter.com/sundeep *
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is brought to you by…
Embroker. The Embroker Startup Insurance Program helps startups secure the most important types of insurance at a lower cost and with less hassle. Save up to 20% off of traditional insurance today at Embroker.com/twist. While you’re there, get an extra 10% off using offer code TWIST.
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at vanta.com/twist
Superside. Design and creative are crucial for growth. Tech companies like Shopify, Amazon, and Meta have found the perfect solution: Superside. Get quality design at scale without breaking the bank for your startup at superside.com/TWIST
*
Today’s show:
VenturusAI founder Emanuel Ciciu joins Jason as he dives into the origin story of his new startup before talking about building vertical AI solutions (1:30). Then Blackbird VC's Samantha Wong gives a presentation at Angel Summit about identifying soon-to-explode startup markets (41:53).
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Time stamps:
(0:00) Emanuel joins Jason
(1:30) VenturusAI origin story
(5:20) The evolution of prompt engineering
(9:09) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(10:23) The true cost of building on top of a LLM
(12:56) Building vertical AI solutions
(18:15) VenturusAI demo
(23:36) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(24:42) VenturusAI path to 100 customers
(29:51) Next steps for VenturusAI
(35:40) Jason places a bet
(40:28) Superside - Go to https://superside.com/twist to get $2000 off with Superside's Startup Accelerator package
(41:53) Blackbird VC's Samantha Wong on identifying soon-to-explode startup markets at Angel Summit
*
Check Out VenturusAI: https://venturusai.com/ Follow Samantha: https://twitter.com/holasammy *
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
Today’s show:
Wilson Sonsini Partner Becki DeGraw joins Jason to kick off another series of Startup Legal Basics! In this episode, they break down secondary market transactions, including the evolution of secondaries (00:50), trends in the industry (3:16), critical aspects of Qualified Small Business (QSBS) stock(20:06), and much more!
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Time stamps:
(00:00) Wilson Sonsini Partner Becki Degraw joins Jason (00:50) The increased use of secondary markets (3:16) How companies staying private longer influenced the rise in secondaries (4:25) Determining how much founders should be allowed to sell (6:21) Spending more than a company is worth (9:26) The Pari-Passu concept explained and how it applies to early investors, founders, and employees (10:38) Who gets to sell pre-IPO (12:44) Off the cap table transactions and hypothetical scenarios (18:26) Tender offers and the NASDAQ secondary market (20:06) The critical aspects of qualified small business (QSBS) stock
*
Check Out Wilson Sonsini: https://www.wsgr.com/en/ *
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
Crowdbotics. Great ideas can change the world, and Crowdbotics is the fastest way to turn those ideas into code. Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at crowdbotics.com/twist
Coda. A new doc that brings words, tables and teams together. All your valuable data, plans, objectives, and strategies in one place. Go to https://coda.io/twist to get a $1,000 credit!
LinkedIn Marketing. To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
*
Today’s show:
Synthesia CEO Victor Riparbelli joins Jason to discuss how his startup uses AI to generate realistic video avatars (10:16) before demoing the product. Then, the two discuss job disruption (31:43), preventing deepfake misuse (45:18), and much more!
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Time stamps:
(0:00) Synthesia CEO Victor Riparbelli joins Jason (3:47) Achieving unicorn status after Nvidia-backed fundraise (12:25) Crowdbotics - Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at crowdbotics.com/twist (13:54) Determining pricing for the product (17:19) Victor demos Synthesia and its AI features (24:38) Coda - Get a $1,000 startup credit at https://coda.io/twist (31:43) Job Disruption: How AI will impact hiring and business functions (39:38) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups (41:06) AI and dual fate technology (45:18) Preventing DeepFake misuse (52:40) OpenAI hit with a lawsuit
*
Check Out Synthesia: https://www.synthesia.io/ Follow Victor: https://twitter.com/vriparbelli *
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers, get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at openphone.com/twist
VEED makes it super easy for anyone (yes, you) to create great video. Filled with amazing features like templates, auto subtitles, text formatting, auto-resizing, a full suite of AI tools, and much more, VEED gives you the tools to engage your audience on any platform. Head to VEED.io to start creating incredible video content in minutes.
*
Today’s show:
Jason breaks down investors and companies using the GPU shortage as leverage to invest in AI startups (1:33) before discussing Microsoft’s run-in with EU regulators over bundling Teams into its Office suite (28:53). They wrap on the FTC's loss in its quest to stop Microsoft's Activision Blizzard acquisition, and Lina Khan’s track record as FTC chair (37:58).
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Nick joins Jason
(1:33) Nvidia’s GPU leverage
(9:48) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(11:07) CoreWeave’s pivot & the pros and cons of WFH
(19:28) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://openphone.com/twist
(20:54) Daniel Gross and Nat Friedman’s GPU play
(27:24) Veed - Sign up and engage your audience on any platform at https://www.veed.io/avatars?utm_campaign=TWIS&utm_medium=YT&utm_source=MKT
(28:53) Microsoft’s run-in with EU regulators over bundling
(37:58) FTC loses cases against Microsoft and Activision Blizzard merger
(46:37) Lina Khan’s track record as the head of the FTC
*
Follow Nick: https://twitter.com/nickcalacanis
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
Fin can’t burn its mouth on hot pizza. Or wave at someone who wasn’t waving at them. Fin can resolve half of your customer support tickets instantly before they reach your team. Meet Fin. A breakthrough AI bot by Intercom – ready to join your support team today. Visit https://intercom.com/fin
Eight Sleep. Good sleep is the ultimate game changer. Now you can add the Pod Pro Cover to any mattress! Go to eightsleep.com/twist to check out the Pod Pro Cover and get $150 off at checkout!
Carta now lets you launch and administer SPVs for your syndicate. Share your knowledge, capital, and network to launch your syndicate SPVs through Carta. Get 10% off your first SPV with promo code TWIST at http://Carta.com
*
Today’s show:
Sunny Madra joins Jason to demo VenturusAI (11:01) and other tools, before discussing Sunny’s new AutoGPT project (34:38). They wrap up talking about Meta’s launch of Threads (49:08), Google’s attempts at building a social network, and Inflection AI’s new supercomputer (1:00:13).
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Sunny joins Jason
(1:49) ChatGPT sees a decline in growth
(10:22) Fin - Try Fin, Intercom's new AI customer support chatbot, at https://intercom.com/fin
(11:01) Sunny demos VenturusAI
(24:29) Eight Sleep - Go to https://eightsleep.com/twist to check out the Pod Cover and get $150 off at checkout!
(26:01) Sunny demos Vercel
(34:38) Sunny's new AutoGPT
(41:58) Carta - Go to http://Carta.com and use code TWIST to get 10% off your first SPV
(43:29) The decision to be open-sourced or closed
(49:08) Meta’s new platform Threads
(1:00:13) Google’s attempts at a social network
(1:03:28) Inflection AI's supercomputer, roundtripping and training LLMs
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is presented by:
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at vanta.com/twist
Embroker. The Embroker Startup Insurance Program helps startups secure the most important types of insurance at a lower cost and with less hassle. Save up to 20% off of traditional insurance today at Embroker.com/twist. While you’re there, get an extra 10% off using offer code TWIST.
House of Macadamias is the next big health trend! Get 20% off your first purchase and a free box of Namibian Sea Salted Macadamia Nuts at houseofmacadamias.com/twist by using code twist20!
*
Today’s show:
Lon joins Jason to extract the business lessons from the film Blackberry (2:19). The two discuss the company’s rise and fall, the benefits of having multiple co-founders (9:11), the psychology of framing (23:05), knowing when to "fake it 'til you make it" (56:19) and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Cold open! “What got us here won’t get us there.”
(2:19) Jason and Lon intro Business Breakdowns - a new series!
(5:51) Blackberry cast breakdown
(9:11) Lessons: Importance of having multiple, complementary co-founders and market pull
(13:25) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(14:32) Lessons: “Burn the boats,” importance of diligence, product velocity
(21:51) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(23:05) Lesson: Framing the product or pitch
(26:11) Lesson: Importance of riding and recognizing paradigm shifts
(31:04) Lessons: Marketing as a status symbol, real-world virality, being of action, “bend don’t break”
(36:50) Lesson: What got you here won’t get you there
(40:53) House of Macadamias - Get 20% off and a free box of Namibian Sea Salted Macadamia Nuts at https://houseofmacadamias.com/twist by using code TWIST20
(42:12) Lessons: Blackberry’s downfall, importance of focus, product association
(53:13) Lesson: Knowing when to cash in your chips
(56:19) Lesson: Know when to “fake it ‘til you make it”
(59:51) Business Breakdown Awards, presented by Jason and Lon
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is presented by: .Tech Domains has a new program called startups.tech, where you can get your startup featured on This Week in Startups. Go to https://startups.tech/jason to find out how!
Crowdbotics. Great ideas can change the world, and Crowdbotics is the fastest way to turn those ideas into code. Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at crowdbotics.com/twist
Issuu is the all-in-one platform for creating and distributing beautiful digital content. Get started with Issuu today for free or sign up for an annual premium account and get 50% off when you go to Issuu.com/podcast and use promo code twist.
*
Today’s show:
Sol Reader CEO Ben Chelf joins Jason to discuss Sol Reader’s design (1:24), how wearable e-readers will create more focused readers (28:06) the ways in which devices reshape the human brain (24:37), and much more!
Follow Ben: https://twitter.com/bchelf
Check Out Sol Reader: https://solreader.com/
*
Time stamps:
(00:00) Sol Reader CEO Ben Chelf joins Jason (4:00) Ben presents the prototype and demos Sol Reader (8:28) LLM and future integrations for Sol Reader (12:40) .Tech Domains - Apply to get your startup featured on This Week in Startups at https://startups.tech/jason (14:04) Overcoming the challenges of a hardware startup (17:59) Sol Reader’s business model (21:09) Audio integration and transcript features (23:22) Optimizing Sol Reader's first product launch (26:38) Crowdbotics - Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at https://crowdbotics.com/twist (28:06) The origin of the wearable e-reader concept and efforts to diminish screen time (38:45) Issuu - Sign up for free or get 50% off an annual premium account by using promo code twist at https://issuu.com/podcast (40:05) Initial product testers' feedback
(44:59) Apple’s Vision Pro headset
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is presented by:
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
LinkedIn Marketing. To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
Fin can’t burn its mouth on hot pizza. Or wave at someone who wasn’t waving at them. Fin can resolve half of your customer support tickets instantly before they reach your team. Meet Fin. A breakthrough AI bot by Intercom – ready to join your support team today. Visit https://intercom.com/fin
*
Today’s show:
Nick joins Jason, who breaks down a report that Shein has confidentially registered for a US IPO (1:24). This leads to a discussion about Shein’s alleged unethical labor practices and voting with your dollar (11:22), Shein’s influencer stunt that backfired, DWAC’s insider trading debacle (47:25), and self-driving vehicle footage being used as evidence in criminal cases (33:27).
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Nick joins Jason for a full news show
(1:24) Shein confidentially registers for a US IPO
(9:54) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(11:22) Shein’s alleged labor practices and voting with your dollar
(31:58) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(33:27) Shein’s TikTok "factory washing" campaign
(40:37) Fin - Try Fin, Intercom's new AI customer support chatbot, at https://intercom.com/fin
(41:21) Jason’s advice for Dani Carbonari
(47:25) Trump’s return to Twitter + Trump SPAC insider trading debacle
(57:03) Police forces using autonomous vehicle footage to prosecute suspects
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is presented by: Crowdbotics. Great ideas can change the world, and Crowdbotics is the fastest way to turn those ideas into code. Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at crowdbotics.com/twist Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at vanta.com/twist OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at openphone.com/twist
*
Today’s show:
Perplexity’s Aravind Srinivas joins Jason to discuss competing with the major players in the generative search / AI chatbot market (1:25), designing an AI-powered search engine (4:49), and much more. *
Check out Perplexity: https://www.perplexity.ai/
Follow Aravind: https://twitter.com/AravSrinivas
*
Time stamps:
(00:00) Perplexity CEO Aravind Srinivas joins Jason
(1:25) Competing in the generative search / AI chatbot market
(4:49) How Perplexity's AI model formulates answers
(11:18) Crowdbotics - Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at https://crowdbotics.com/twist
(12:46) How Perplexity is citing sources
(20:20) Incorporating advertising into AI chatbots
(25:32) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(26:40) How Perplexity recruits talent and Aravind's time at OpenAI
(32:04) The future of AI technology and overcoming overlap
(38:26) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://openphone.com/twist
(39:53) Meta's LLaMa model being leaked
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is presented by:
Embroker. The Embroker Startup Insurance Program helps startups secure the most important types of insurance at a lower cost and with less hassle. Save up to 20% off of traditional insurance today at Embroker.com/twist. While you’re there, get an extra 10% off using offer code TWIST.
Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers, get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
Eight Sleep. Good sleep is the ultimate game changer. Now you can add the Pod Pro Cover to any mattress! Go to eightsleep.com/twist to check out the Pod Pro Cover and get $150 off at checkout!
*
Today’s show:
Zapier’s Mike Knoop joins Jason to discuss the early days of Zapier before breaking down the evolution of app integrations and API usage (1:20). They dive into reducing friction for Zapier users, regulating AI, the limitations of present-day AI architecture, and more (43:06).
*
Check out Zapier: https://zapier.com/
Follow Mike: https://twitter.com/mikeknoop
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Mike Knoop joins Jason
(1:20) Zapier’s origin story
(8:40) Zapier’s key inflection point and its profit-sharing model
(14:05) Zapier’s business model
(15:48) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(17:03) The evolution of app integrations and API usage
(23:41) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(25:00) Zapier demo + incorporating AI into your workflow
(36:43) Eight Sleep - Go to https://eightsleep.com/twist to check out the Pod Cover and get $150 off at checkout!
(38:14) Linkedin tightening the belt on its API
(41:21) Zapier’s enterprise customers
(43:06) Reducing friction for Zapier users
(51:41) Regulating AI
(55:19) The limitations of present-day AI architecture
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is presented by:
Notion just launched Notion Projects, which includes new, powerful ways to manage projects and leverage the power of their built-in AI features too. Try it for free today at notion.com/twist.
LinkedIn Jobs. A business is only as strong as its people, and every hire matters. Go to LinkedIn.com/TWIST to post your first job for free. Terms and conditions apply
Fin can’t burn its mouth on hot pizza. Or wave at someone who wasn’t waving at them. Fin can resolve half of your customer support tickets instantly before they reach your team. Meet Fin. A breakthrough AI bot by Intercom – ready to join your support team today. Visit https://intercom.com/fin
*
Today’s show:
Jason is joined by Vinny Lingham to break down IRL shutting down after faking 95% of users (1:12), ZIRP fraud (12:59), Databricks acquiring MosaicML for $1.3B, and some AI demos! (1:02:31)
*
Check out Waitroom: https://waitroom.com/
Follow Vinny: https://twitter.com/vinnylingham
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Vinny joins Jason
(1:12) IRL's 19M fake users
(5:45) Twitter bots and the fake account problem
(11:50) Notion - Try it for free today at https://notion.com/twist
(12:59) Diligence in early-stage startups
(20:59) Databricks acquires MosaicML for $1.3B
(27:02) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(33:09) Testing Google’s new generative search
(37:47) Fin - Try Fin, Intercom's new AI customer support chatbot, at https://intercom.com/fin
(38:31) Testing generative search on the most expensive steaks in Los Angeles
(41:56) Vinny's thoughts on Toxic Wealth and the Titan tragedy
(53:34) DeepMind CEO says Gemini is more capable than ChatGPT
(1:02:31) Vinny demos Colorize and Replika
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is presented by:
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at openphone.com/twist
Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers, get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
*
Today’s show:
Jason first reflects on the Titan submersible tragedy as he discusses the concept of ‘Toxic Wealth’ (1:41). Then, he explains why Meta will remove news content from Instagram and Facebook in Canada due to Bill C-18 (14:59). Finally, Elizabeth Yin gives a presentation live from Angel Summit on her five major learnings from 700+ startup investments (22:59).
*
Follow Elizabeth: https://twitter.com/dunkhippo33
Check Out Hustle Fund: https://www.hustlefund.vc
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Elizabeth’s passion
(1:41) Jason discusses the Titan submersible tragedy and how money can lead to recklessness and toxic wealth
(13:40) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(14:59) Meta removes news content from Instagram and Facebook in Canada
(21:33) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://openphone.com/twist
(22:59) Elizabeth Yin of Hustle Fund at Angel Summit
(31:32) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(32:51) How to invest in startups
(50:17) Q&A with Angel Summit audience
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is presented by:
iConnections is a platform to connect and meet with elite capital allocators through their online platform and bespoke events. The first 25 VC funds to sign up for iConnections Miami 2024 event in January of next year will receive a 20% discount! Head to iConnections.io/twist to sign up today!
Crowdbotics. Great ideas can change the world, and Crowdbotics is the fastest way to turn those ideas into code. Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at crowdbotics.com/twist.
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at vanta.com/twist.
*
Today’s show:
First, StoneAlgo CEO Devin Jones joins Jason for a jam session on scaling his startup, which is building “Zillow for diamonds” (4:38). Then, Mar Hershenson gives a presentation on “The Art of Picking.” (38:19)
Mar’s talk was recorded live at LAUNCH Angel Summit.
*
Follow StoneAlgo: https://twitter.com/stonealgo
Follow Mar: https://twitter.com/MarHershenson
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Cold intros DO work!
(1:30) Jason explains what LAUNCH looks for in startup investments
(4:38) Jason intros StoneAlgo CEO Devin Jones, who breaks down his startup: “Zillow for Diamonds”
(14:27) iConnections - Get 20% off iConnections Miami 2024 event at http://iconnections.io/twist
(15:58) Bootstrapping StoneAlgo as a side project, never underestimating categories, understanding the diamond market
(26:10) Crowdbotics - Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at crowdbotics.com/twist
(27:37) Capital efficiency, frugality, how Devin scored an investment off of a cold email
(37:13) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(38:19) Pear VC’s Mar Hershenson gives a talk on “The Art of Picking” live from LAUNCH Angel Summit
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is presented by:
LinkedIn Marketing. To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups.
VEED makes it super easy for anyone (yes, you) to create great video. Filled with amazing features like templates, auto subtitles, text formatting, auto-resizing, a full suite of AI tools, and much more, VEED gives you the tools to engage your audience on any platform. Head to VEED.io to start creating incredible video content in minutes.
Fin can’t burn its mouth on hot pizza. Or wave at someone who wasn’t waving at them. Fin can resolve half of your customer support tickets instantly before they reach your team. Meet Fin. A breakthrough AI bot by Intercom – ready to join your support team today. Visit intercom.com/fin.
*
Today’s show:
First, EyeRate CEO Ray Weisberg joins Jason to break down his startup’s business model (4:55), category creation and framing (13:32), how they plan on scaling from $10M to $100M (22:51), and more. Then, Steve Jurvetson gives a presentation on discovering and identifying disruptive new technologies. (36:34)
Steve’s talk was recorded live at LAUNCH Angel Summit.
*
Follow EyeRate: https://twitter.com/EyeRateBusiness
Follow Steve: https://twitter.com/FutureJurvetson
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Great founders sometimes means very little contact!
(1:42) Jason explains LAUNCH’s investment strategy and ownership targets
(4:55) EyeRate CEO Ray Weisberg breaks down EyeRate’s early pivot, how they help real-world businesses increase customer engagement, and how the business is scaling
(12:10) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(13:32) Lessons learned from scaling from $0 to nearly $10M in revenue, “category creation,” and framing
(21:19) Veed - Sign up and engage your audience on any platform at https://www.veed.io
(22:51) Thoughts on scaling from $10M to $100M, understanding market pull, content marketing ideas, hiring C-suite “bar raisers,” write-first culture
(35:52) Fin - Try Fin, Intercom's new AI customer support chatbot, at https://intercom.com/fin
(36:34) Steve Jurvetson gives a talk on finding and investing in disruptive technologies
(1:00:37) Steve takes a couple of questions from Jason and the audience
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is presented by:
Hampton. Are you a startup founder or CEO seeking expert advice? Join Hampton, the private, highly vetted community for high-growth founders. Get invaluable insights, connections, and support to accelerate your business at joinhampton.com/twist today!
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to Squarespace.com/twist for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
.Tech domains are the go-to namespace to build anything in tech… and home to the world’s most innovative startups. Secure your .Tech domain today and lock down a 1-year domain for $10, or a 5-year domain for $50 at go.tech/TWIST!
*
Today’s show:
Atreides Management’s Gavin Baker joins Jason to break down the current macro picture, the AI platform shift, and the reshuffling of the entire tech deck. (1:27) They also cover the potential impact of AI recursively improving itself and extinction risks (15:06) before discussing chip demand, Nvidia’s outlook, and more! (25:13) Then, Embroker's Chief Insurance Officer David Derigiotis explains how to differentiate your business with cybersecurity! (40:24)
Gavin's fireside chat was recorded live at LAUNCH Angel Summit in Napa.
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Gavin and Jason on joining the resistance!
(1:27) Current macro picture, the AI platform shift, and how AI is reshuffling everything in tech
(13:42) Hampton - Join Hampton's community of high-growth founders today at https://joinhampton.com/twist
(15:06) Exponential compounding of generative AI, AGI chances, recursive AI improvement
(23:55) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(25:13) Chip demand, Nvidia’s outlook, which high-end fields might be most at risk, extinction risks
(39:02) .Tech Domains - get a 1-year domain for $10 or a 5-year domain for $50 at https://go.tech/TWIST
(40:24) Embroker Chief Insurance Officer David Derigiotis gives a talk on how to differentiate your business with cybersecurity
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
*
All opinions expressed in this episode are solely the speakers’ own opinions and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of any firm affiliated with the speakers. This episode is for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a basis for investment decisions. Clients of the speakers’ firms may maintain positions in the securities discussed.
This Week in Startups is presented by:
Trovata. Starting up is hard. Trovata makes managing cash easy. Start automating your cash management at Trovata.io/TWIST. Use Code TWIST for 30% off one full year of premium features like AI forecasting.
Embroker. The Embroker Startup Insurance Program helps startups secure the most important types of insurance at a lower cost and with less hassle. Save up to 20% off of traditional insurance today at Embroker.com/twist. While you’re there, get an extra 10% off using offer code TWIST.
Eight Sleep. Good sleep is the ultimate game changer. Now you can add the Pod Pro Cover to any mattress! Go to eightsleep.com/twist to check out the Pod Pro Cover and get $150 off at checkout!
*
Today’s show:
Reddit CEO and Co-Founder Steve Huffman joins Jason to discuss building a platform that serves Reddit's community (13:33), addresses the situation with third-party apps and moderators (35:00), and much more!
*
Time stamps:
(00:00) Reddit CEO Steve Huffman joins Jason
(2:40) The evolution of Reddit and its community
(4:10) The tailwinds powering Reddit and Steve's thoughts on speech mitigation
(12:00) Trovata - Use code TWIST at https://trovata.io/twist for 30% off one year of premium features, like AI forecasting
(13:33) The Reddit "Keep it real" ethos and the importance of allowing open debate
(17:47) Authoritarianism and challenging orthodoxies
(24:29) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(25:44) Steve's optimism for AI and why this is only the beginning
(35:00) The response to Reddit's API use in various LLMs
(37:57) Eight Sleep - Go to https://eightsleep.com/twist to check out the Pod Pro Cover and get $150 off at checkout!
(39:29) Going in-depth on Reddit's situation and API history
(48:03) What it comes down to for third-party apps
(56:20) What changed Steve's opinion on advertising
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is presented by:
The Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub helps all founders build a better startup, at a lower cost, from day one. Startups get up to $150K in Azure credits, access to free OpenAI credits, free dev tools like GitHub, technical advisory, access to mentors and experts, and so much more. There is no funding requirement, and it only takes minutes to join. Sign up today at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups.
Crowdbotics. Great ideas can change the world, and Crowdbotics is the fastest way to turn those ideas into code. Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at crowdbotics.com/twist
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at openphone.com/twist
Today’s show:
Forever Voices CEO John Meyer joins Jason to discuss becoming a Thiel fellow (2:48), how his AI technology can make influencers and celebrities bionic (15:26), how it enables universal interaction (23:37), and more!
Follow John: https://twitter.com/BEASTMODE
Time stamps:
(0:00) Forever Voices CEO John Meyer joins Jason
(2:48) John discusses becoming a Thiel fellow
(9:25) Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub - Apply in 5 minutes for six figures in discounts at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
(10:58) John explains what led to his decision to start Forever Voices
(15:26) How this technology will evolve over time
(18:05) The use of AI in grief counseling
(22:28) Crowdbotics - Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at https://crowdbotics.com/twist
(23:37) Thoughts on expanding past celebrities and influencers
(24:38) What CarynAI is and its impact on society
(37:21) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://openphone.com/twist
(38:50) Developing these AI models and preventing addiction on this platform (45:46) Will the AI variants be developed by others (48:25) Jason’s advice for founders on raising capital
*
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo: https://www.launch.co/four
Apply for Funding: https://www.launch.co/apply
Buy ANGEL: https://www.angelthebook.com
Great recent interviews: Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
*
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin
*
Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is presented by:
LinkedIn Jobs. A business is only as strong as its people, and every hire matters. Go to LinkedIn.com/TWIST to post your first job for free. Terms and conditions apply.
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at vanta.com/twist.
iConnections is a platform to connect and meet with elite capital allocators through their online platform and bespoke events. The first 25 VC funds to sign up for iConnections Miami 2024 event in January of next year will receive a 20% discount! Head to iConnections.io/twist to sign up today!
*
Today’s show:
First up, Jason does a full breakdown of what’s going on at Reddit, and why this is happening now (1:21). Then, Brad Gerstner joins to break down the state of the markets in 2023 (18:28), his “Time to Get Fit” letter to Meta (30:06), and more!
Brad’s fireside chat was recorded live at LAUNCH Angel Summit in Napa.
Follow Brad: https://twitter.com/altcap
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Jason tees up today’s segments!
(1:21) Breaking down the Reddit situation: Why 2000’s-era web companies relied on third-party apps built on their API
(3:10) Origin and current state of the Reddit revolt, CEO Steve Huffman’s AMA and comments
(10:27) Jason’s hot takes on how to solve the third-party app API pricing issue, Reddit’s IPO price, and more
(17:00) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(18:28) Brad Gerstner joins live from Angel Summit! Importance on non-consensus conviction, first-party research, how Brad first invested in Facebook
(29:00) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(30:06) Brad breaks down the greatness in Zuckerberg and Meta’s reaction to his “Time to Get Fit” letter
(34:08) Current state of the markets
(38:05) iConnections - Get 20% off iConnections Miami 2024 event at http://iconnections.io/twist
(39:48) Predicting what the AI innovation cycle will look like when compared to past cycles: pc, internet, mobile, cloud; why now is the most important time for AI investing
*
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Great recent interviews: Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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This Week in Startups is presented by:
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Todays show:
Vinny and Sunny are back! First, Vinny demos Waitroom (2:12), before the group breaks down Apple’s new Vision Pro headset (41:10), then, Sunny demos a suite of new AI tools, including Meta’s MusicGen model(19:53).
Follow Vinny: https://twitter.com/vinnylingham
Checkout Waitroom: https://waitroom.com/
Follow Sunny: https://twitter.com/sundeep
Checkout Definitive: https://definitive.io/
*
Time stamps:
(00:00) Vinny and Sunny join Jason (2:12) Waitroom's features (5:38) Waitroom's design for VC's and Sunny's thoughts (9:42) Features to add to next (13:43) Masterclass - Get 15% off an annual membership to MasterClass at https://masterclass.com/startups. (19:53) Meta's MusicGen (24:26) Creating music with AI (29:03) Merge - Integrate up to 3 customers for free today at https://merge.dev/twist (30:35) Exploring authenticity as AI becomes more prevalent (32:27) Sunny demos LumaLabs (36:55) Jason AI interviews Steve Jobs (39:45) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist (41:10) Apple's Vision Pro headset (42:32) The key differences between Oculus Meta Quest and Apple's Vision Pro (49:49) The effects of headsets in the workplace (52:53) Using ControlNet to create artwork for QR codes (56:39) Developing code using Replit
*
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Great recent interviews: Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
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This Week in Startups is presented by:
Embroker. The Embroker Startup Insurance Program helps startups secure the most important types of insurance at a lower cost and with less hassle. Save up to 20% off of traditional insurance today at Embroker.com/twist. While you’re there, get an extra 10% off using offer code TWIST.
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Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
*
Today’s show:
The contents of this episode were recorded live at LAUNCH Angel Summit in Napa.
DoorDash Chief Product Officer and Co-Founder Stanley Tang joined Jason live on stage at Angel Summit to discuss DoorDash’s founding story, avoiding ZIRP distractions, and the cloud kitchen movement (1:23).
Then, Jason sits down with Kelli Fontaine of Cendana Capital, Sophia Amoruso of Trust Fund, and Paige Doherty of Behind Genius Ventures to chat about becoming and investing in first-time fund managers (36:49).
Follow Stanley: https://twitter.com/stanleytang
Check Out DoorDash: https://www.doordash.com/
Follow Kelli: https://twitter.com/kells_bells
Check Out Cendana Capital: https://www.cendanacapital.com/
Follow Paige: https://twitter.com/paigefinnn
Check Out Behind Genius Ventures: https://www.behindgeniusventures.com/
Follow Sophia: https://twitter.com/sophiaamoruso
Check Out Trust Fund: https://www.trustfund.vc/
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Nick kicks off the show
(1:23) DoorDash’s founding story with Stanley Tang
(11:06) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(12:20) The Palo Alto delivery experiemnt
(16:07) DoorDash’s first delivery
(18:21) The era of excess
(23:00) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(24:23) Avoiding ZIRP distractions
(26:44) Navigating through the pandemic
(30:59) The Cloud Kitchen movement
(35:31) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(36:49) Defining a fund of funds and selecting managers with Kelli Fontaine of Cendana Capital
(44:00) Raising a private fund with Paige Doherty of Behind Genius Ventures
(48:14) The origin story of Trust Fund with Sophia Amoruso
(53:42) The prevalence of startup funds
(59:35) Advice for first-time fund managers and having the ability to say no
(1:04:36) Running a small fund in a sustainable matter
*
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This Week in Startups is presented by:
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Today’s show:
Replika Co-Founder and CEO Eugenia Kuyda breaks down her startup’s origin story and purpose (1:43), the relationships users have with its AI chatbot (10:21), the potential of AI therapists, Replika’s new chatbot Blush, and more! (35:10)
Follow Eugenia: https://twitter.com/ekuyda
Check Out Replika: https://replika.ai/
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) Eugenia joins Jason
(1:43) Replika’s origin story
(8:54) Crowdbotics - Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at crowdbotics.com/twist
(10:21) Replika’s purpose and their current user base
(16:21) Relationships within the app
(20:25) Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub - Apply in 5 minutes for six figures in discounts at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
(21:58) Creating happiness with AI
(26:26) Avoiding addiction
(29:25) Demographics within the AI field
(33:42) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://openphone.com/twist
(35:10) Crafting LLMs to envoke thought-provoking questions and AI therapy
(49:53) Replika's new AI chatbot, Blush
(1:01:05) The loneliness crisis and specific cases for using these AIs
*
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Great recent interviews: Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
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*
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This Week in Startups is presented by:
Coda. A new doc that brings words, tables and teams together. All your valuable data, plans, objectives, and strategies in one place. Go to https://coda.io/twist to get a $1,000 credit!
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VEED makes it super easy for anyone (yes, you) to create great video. Filled with amazing features like templates, auto subtitles, text formatting, auto-resizing, a full suite of AI tools, and much more, VEED gives you the tools to engage your audience on any platform. Head to VEED.io to start creating incredible video content in minutes.
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Today’s show:
CEO and Founder of Vistim Labs James Hamet joins Jason, as they discuss the current roadblocks with diagnosing dementia (1:18), before James breaks down how they use AI to detect signs of neurological disease (23:29). Then, Jason sits down with Kaitlin Malin at SALT iConnections New York, to discuss the keys to angel investing and AI (40:52).
Follow James: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jchamet/
Check Out Vistim Labs: https://vistimlabs.com/
*
Time stamps:
(0:00) James joins Jason
(1:18) The faults with how we diagnose Dementia today
(6:46) Visitim Labs’ product
(9:25) Coda - Get a $1,000 startup credit at https://coda.io/twist
(10:46) Test trials and patient demographics
(12:53) Vistim’s go-to-market strategy
(18:24) Miro - Sign up for a free account at https://miro.com/startups
(20:32) James shares a video demoing Vistim Labs’ capabilities
(23:29) James’ previous startup, Neurable
(27:02) Catching Alzhimers’ early, habits that prevent neurological disease and the four horseman
(39:23) Veed - Sign up and engage your audience on any platform at https://www.veed.io
(40:52) Jason’s sits down with Kaitlin Malin at SALT iConnections New York
(46:03) Raising a 506-C fund’
(52:13) Jason’s keys to becoming a successful angel
(58:27) Jason’s thoughts on AI
*
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Great recent interviews: Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
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This Week in Startups is presented by:
Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to https://Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
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Notion just launched Notion Projects, which includes new, powerful ways to manage projects and leverage the power of their built-in AI features too. Try it for free today at https://notion.com/twist.
*
Todays show:
Rory Sutherland joins Jason to cover an almost unbelievable range of topics. The limits of this conversation know no bounds! Don't miss this one.
Follow Rory: https://twitter.com/rorysutherland
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Time stamps:
(00:00) Rory Sutherland joins Jason
(2:28) Broad adoption of video conferencing
(7:26) Unpacking simple social norms
(11:46) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(13:05) The importance of framing and the role of reliability
(15:04) The pandemic's influence on video conferencing trends
(18:46) A.I.'s role in a post-pandemic world
(21:53) Application of A.I.
(22:45) Brainstorming and how the human brain functions
(23:44) Rory Vs. ChatGPT brainstorming unique soda flavors
(28:43) Release - Get your first month free at https://release.com/twist
(30:12) ChatGPT's response
(34:55) The behavioral science behind AI suggestions to humans
(36:34) Tolerating eccentricity within the ad industry
(38:42) The disproportionate faith in AI vs Humans
(41:04) Notion - Try it for free today at notion.com/twist
(42:30) AI and the dormant fallacy (55:57) What is driving the next generation
(57:59) Modern work trends: Vacation time, the four-day weekend, and flexible work
(01:07:26) The Jevons paradox in Economics and the WGA strike
(01:16:19) Technology that doesn't quite think like a human
(01:22:30) The Elgin Marbles controversy
(01:25:16) Reevaluating the concept of retirement age
(01:28:24) The startup surge in UAE
(01:32:53) Promoting social freedom, betting on startups, and marketing outrageous products
(01:44:25) Discussing historical houses and the Ennis house
*
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Buy ANGEL
Great recent interviews: Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
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*
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This Week in Startups is presented by:
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at vanta.com/twist.
Embroker. The Embroker Startup Insurance Program helps startups secure the most important types of insurance at a lower cost and with less hassle. Save up to 20% off of traditional insurance today at Embroker.com/twist. While you’re there, get an extra 10% off using offer code TWIST.
.Tech domains are the go-to namespace to build anything in tech… and home to the world’s most innovative startups. Secure your .Tech domain today and lock down a 1-year domain for $10, or a 5-year domain for $50 at https://go.tech/TWIST today!
*
Today's show:
Sunny and Vinny are back to break down what's next after AI layoffs(30:10), discuss RunwayML's massive valuation(52:09), and more!
Follow Vinny: https://twitter.com/vinnylingham
Check Out Waitroom: https://waitroom.com/
Follow Sunny: https://twitter.com/sundeep
Check Out Definitive: https://definitive.io/prompts/new
*
Time stamps:
(00:00) Sunny and Vinny join Jason
(1:39) Sunny demos Runway
(9:16) Jason AI interviews AI Steve Jobs
(12:37) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(13:44) Jason AI interviews AI Steve Jobs continued
(18:27) The potential for genealogist AI startup
(22:26) Converting thoughts into text with Audio Pen AI tool
(24:40) Microsoft charging 40% more for AI-enhanced services
(28:55) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(30:10) Comparing hiring with improving employee efficiency
(33:46) The ChatGPT share feature
(37:47) Meta's Image Bing AI tool
(40:33) .Tech - Lock down a 1-year domain for $10, or a 5-year domain for $50 at https://go.tech/TWIST
(42:01) Microsoft integrating AI into windows
(49:29) The Sales Recording Law
(52:09) Big funding rounds and why investors must get in early
(55:30) Japan going all in on copyright
*
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Buy ANGEL
Great recent interviews: Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
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*
Follow Jason:
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*
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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is presented by:
Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at vanta.com/twist.
Trovata. Starting up is hard. Trovata makes managing cash easy. Start automating your cash management at Trovata.io/TWIST. Use Code TWIST for 30% off one full year of premium features like AI forecasting.
The Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub helps all founders build a better startup, at a lower cost, from day one. Startups get up to $150K in Azure credits, access to free OpenAI credits, free dev tools like GitHub, technical advisory, access to mentors and experts, and so much more. There is no funding requirement, and it only takes minutes to join. Sign up today at aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
*
Todays show:
MosaicML Co-Founder and CEO Naveen Rao joins Jason to discuss the open-source vs closed AI debate, the profound impact of AI on society (41:06) AI’s rapid pace of change, and its implications for the future of employment and education (40:42). They wrap the show by breaking down the potential problems with centralized regulation (54:37).
Follow Naveen: https://twitter.com/NaveenGRao
Check Out MosaicML: https://mosaicml.com
*
Time stamps:
(00:00) Naveen Rao joins Jason
(2:54) MosaicML and its purpose
(5:10) Obtaining datasets and incentivizing creators
(8:30) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(9:37) The process of using your data with MosaicML
(11:55) Defining tokens and prompts
(16:53) Fine-tuning the AI model and reinforcement learning
(19:27) The competition with open-source models
(24:26) The cost of running AI models
(26:08) Trovata - Use code TWIST at https://trovata.io/twist for 30% off one year of premium features, like AI forecasting
(27:35) How the GPU crunch has affected cloud models
(32:13) Why demand will not cease
(34:21) Specialized models vs. general models(39:12) Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub - Apply in 5 minutes for six figures in discounts at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
(40:42) The impact AI will have on employment
(48:49) The impact AI will have on education
(54:37) Thoughts on OpenAI becoming ClosedAI
*
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Buy ANGEL
Great recent interviews: Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
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*
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This Week in Startups is presented by:
House of Macadamias is the next big health trend! Get 20% off your first purchase and a free bottle of cold-pressed macadamia oil at houseofmacadamias.com/twist by using code twist20!
Crowdbotics. Great ideas can change the world, and Crowdbotics is the fastest way to turn those ideas into code. Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at crowdbotics.com/twist
Meowtel. Traveling soon? Book a local and insured sitter on Meowtel, the #1 cat sitting app. Save $25 on your first booking with code TWIST25 at https://meowtel.com!
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Today’s show:
Looking Glass Co-Founder and CEO Shawn Frayne joins Jason to demo their new hologram assistant (1:03) before breaking down the unique use cases for Looking Glass’s technology and Shawn’s perspective on the pace of AI (10:24).
Follow Shawn: https://twitter.com/shawninvents
Check Out Looking Glass: https://lookingglassfactory.com/
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Time stamps:
(0:00) Shawn joins Jason
(1:03) Shawn demos Looking Glass’ hologram assistant + Looking Glass’ business model
(8:53) House of Macadamias - Get 20% off and a free bottle of cold-pressed macadamia oil at https://houseofmacadamias.com/twist by using code TWIST20
(10:24) AI’s impact on product design and how users interact with Looking Glass’ platform
(17:57) Investing in hardware startups
(20:43) Crowdbotics - Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at http://crowdbotics.com/twist
(22:10) Looking Glass’ customer base
(31:23) Meowtel - Get $25 off your first booking with code TWIST25 at https://meowtel.com
(32:42) Shawn’s perspective on AI
(37:18) Shawn and Jason’s first picks for holographic assistants
*
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Buy ANGEL
Great recent interviews: Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
*
Follow Jason:
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*
Follow TWiST:
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This Week in Startups is presented by:
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Today's Show:
Jack Krawczyk, the head Google’s Bard team, chats with Jason about Bard’s capabilities and Google’s plan for monetization. Following a few demonstrations of the AI chatbot (43:32), Jason wraps the episode with some thoughts on the series finale of HBO’s Succession (01:01:45)
Follow Jack: https://twitter.com/JackK
*
Time stamps:
(00:00) Jack Krawczyk joins Jason
(4:58) Discussing the responsible release of products
(7:43) The delicate balance of choosing to release or hold
(10:24) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(11:57) Addressing concerns about the usage of creators' content
(13:42) Unpacking the process of vetting new features and the purpose of Google's Red Team
(18:39) Integrating tools and features into the framework of Bard
(20:51) Upholding core values in the incorporation of tools
(23:58) Hampton - Join Hampton's community of high-growth founders today at https://joinhampton.com/twist
(25:23) The impact of Bard's coding capabilities on developers
(29:36) Gauging the distance from non-developers writing meaningful code
(31:11) The business model behind Google Bard
(34:18) Meowtel - Get $25 off your first booking with code TWIST25 at https://meowtel.com
(36:44) The potential paths ahead
(39:30) Google's vision for plugins and opportunities for startups
(43:32) Jack demos Google Bard
(55:52) Reflecting on the pace of AI
(01:01:45) Breaking down HBO's Succession and why it's a must-watch
*
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Buy ANGEL
Great recent interviews: Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
Follow Jason:
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis
Follow TWiST:
Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com
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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast
This Week in Startups is presented by:
VEED makes it super easy for anyone (yes, you) to create great video. Filled with amazing features like templates, auto subtitles, text formatting, auto-resizing, a full suite of AI tools, and much more, VEED gives you the tools to engage your audience on any platform. Head to VEED.io to start creating incredible video content in minutes.
OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at openphone.com/twist
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Today’s show:
Brad Gerstner and Mubadla's Ibrahim Ajami join Jason as they discuss their first impressions of the UAE (1:33). They then converse about how the UAE is attracting startup talent, unclogging the capital allocator log jam, and investing in relationships (19:43)!
Follow Brad: https://twitter.com/altcap
Follow Ibrahim: https://twitter.com/IbrahimAjami
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Time stamps:
(0:00) Brad and Ibrahim join Jason
(1:33) First impressions of the UAE
(10:25) Veed - Head to https://www.veed.io/pricing?utm_campaign=TWIS&utm_medium=Marketing&utm_source=YouTube and start creating professional-quality videos in minutes!
(11:55) The story of Mubadala
(19:43) Attracting talent to the UAE
(26:53) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://openphone.com/twist
(28:21) The shifting perspective of the UAE and the opportunity it presents
(35:07) The level of curiosity in Abu Dhabi
(37:02) iConnections - Get 20% off iConnections Miami 2024 event at http://iconnections.io/twist
(38:21) Adjusting to the changing market
(41:58) Mubadala’s portfolio and investing in SoftBank’s Vision Fund
(49:40) Getting fit
(56:27) Unclogging the manager log jam and the denominator problem
(1:04:59) Investing in relationships
(1:11:38) The progression of the UAE
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This Week in Startups is presented by:
Embroker. The Embroker Startup Insurance Program helps startups secure the most important types of insurance at a lower cost and with less hassle. Save up to 20% off of traditional insurance today at http://embroker.com/twist. While you’re there, get an extra 10% off using offer code TWIST.
Hyperice. Warm up and recover faster with the Hypervolt 2 massage gun and Normatec compression therapy boots. Save $50 off your order of $150 or more with code TWIST50 at checkout on http://hyperice.com/.
Release. Large enterprises pose unique challenges for SaaS startups. Unlock customers with unique needs for private and single-tenant hosting without the toil of DIY with Release Delivery. Get your first month free at https://release.com/twist .
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Today’s show:
Lon Harris is BACK to discuss the WGA strike and how ChatGPT can (and will) impact Hollywood writers (6:18). They also break down how streaming services can appeal to show writers, Spotify’s planned AI-for-ads, and more! (19:56)
Follow Lon: https://twitter.com/Lons
Check Out Binge Boys: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/binge-boys/id1535514923
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Time stamps:
(0:00) Lon joins Jason
(1:44) Jason discusses his new reality TV show
(6:18) The WGA Strike and the misconceptions of Hollywood
(13:29) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(14:33) Employing writers and the lack of transparency in the film industry
(19:56) Breaking rank as a streaming service
(24:21) Hyperice - Get $50 off your order of $150 or more with code TWIST50 at http://hyperice.com/
(25:30) Hollywood writers’ thoughts on ChatGPT
(37:14) Release - Get your first month free at https://release.com/twist
(38:41) Creating Adam Sandler movies with ChatGPT
(42:15) Jason and Lon breakdown if Succession will go down as a top HBO show
(48:51) Jason’s advice to the writers union and streaming services
(53:06) HBO debuts Max
(1:00:13) Spotify’s new use for AI
(1:06:09) Highly anticipated releases, plus Jason and Lon’s thoughts on how TikTok is affecting society
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Great recent interviews: Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
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This Week in Startups is presented by:
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The Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub helps all founders build a better startup, at a lower cost, from day one. Startups get up to $150K in Azure credits, access to free OpenAI credits, free dev tools like GitHub, technical advisory, access to mentors and experts, and so much more. There is no funding requirement, and it only takes minutes to join. Sign up today at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
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Today’s show:
Galileo AI’s Arnaud Benard joins Jason to demo their text-to-UI platform before discussing the AI startup scene in Silicon Valley (3:47). Then Lunour’s Scott Bair gives a presentation on how to design loved products from rough wireframes to a polished design (34:17).
Follow Arnaud: https://twitter.com/arnaudai
Check Out Galileo AI: https://www.usegalileo.ai/
Follow Scott: https://twitter.com/scott_bair
Check Out Lunour : https://www.lunour.com/
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Time stamps:
(0:00) Arnaud joins Jason
(1:29) Discovering Galileo AI
(3:47) Arnaud demos Galileo
(9:28) Crowdbotics - Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at http://crowdbotics.com/twist
(10:36) Galileo’s inception, its business metrics and its AI models
(17:28) Hampton - Join Hampton's community of high-growth founders today at https://joinhampton.com/twist
(18:52) Building an AI startup today
(24:43) Arnaud’s position on AutoGPTs
(28:02) San Francisco’s startup and food scene
(32:43) Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub - Apply in 5 minutes for six figures in discounts at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
(34:17) How to design loved products with Scott Bair
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Great recent interviews: Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
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This Week in Startups is presented by:
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Today’s show:
Jason hosts another pitch competition featuring two startups from our Founder University program! Apply for Founder University: https://course.founder.university
Check out NeighborBrite: https://neighborbrite.com/
Check out Coffee Clozers: https://www.coffeeclozers.com/
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Time stamps:
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(1:22) Jason and Kelly introduce the pitch competition
(4:25) Luis pitches NeighborBrite
(12:19) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(13:32) Liam pitches Coffee Clozers
(21:24) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(22:42) The value of Founder University
(25:46) Jason awards the $25K investment
(31:09) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(32:28) Q&A with Jason
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Great recent interviews: Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis
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.Tech domains are the go-to namespace to build anything in tech… and home to the world’s most innovative startups. Secure your .Tech domain today and lock down a 1-year domain for $10, or a 5-year domain for $50 at http://go.tech/TWIST today!
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Today’s show:
Sunny joins Jason to discuss the latest in AI. They chat about the launch of ChatGPT’s new iOS app and demo Google’s MusicLM (1:24). Then, Sunny tests AssemblyAI’s LeMUR and Wondercraft AI before wrapping with a look at Stable Diffusion’s deep fake capabilities (29:38).
Follow Sunny: https://twitter.com/sundeep
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Time stamps:
(0:00) Sunny joins Jason
(1:24) ChatGPT launches its IOS app
(4:59) Sunny demos Google’s MusicLM
(8:14) Issuu - Sign up for free or get 50% off an annual premium account by using promo code twist at https://issuu.com/podcast
(9:33) Having taste, and how did Google train MusicLM
(21:02) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(22:09) The legal issues with training MusicLM
(29:38) Sunny demos AssemblyAI’s LeMur
(38:34) .Tech domains - lock down a 1-year domain for $10, or a 5-year domain for $50 at http://go.tech/TWIST
(39:58) Sunny demos Wondercraft AI
(47:18) Stable Diffusion’s deep fake technology
(51:36) Creating more content with AI
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Great recent interviews: Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
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This Week in Startups is presented by:
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Today’s show:
Jason and Brad speak with Mubadala Capital’s Head of Ventures, Ibrahim Ajami, at Hub71 in the UAE. The three discuss how startups can survive and thrive in an economic downturn (1:02) before diving into the sacrifices that founders must make to create an incredible product. (14:16) They also explain how the AI revolution will affect software, startups, capital allocators, and more! (40:36)
Follow Mubadala: https://twitter.com/MubadalaCapital
Follow Ibrahim: https://twitter.com/IbrahimAjami
Follow Hub71: https://twitter.com/hub71ad
Follow Brad: https://twitter.com/altcap
Time stamps:
(0:00) Nick kicks off the show
(1:02) Surviving the downturn
(12:46) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(14:16) Sacrificing to build a great product
(26:34)Trovata - Use code TWIST at https://trovata.io/twist for 30% off one year of premium features, like AI forecasting
(27:47) Brad’s letter to Mark Zuckerberg and AI creating ultra-efficient startups
(39:02) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://openphone.com/twist
(40:36) The AI revolution
(50:48) The implications of AI on the software industry
(55:50) Creating the Silicon Valley culture
(59:32) Reflecting on the success of the Launch Accelerator
(1:06:23) Building culture within your firm and dealing with failure
(1:19:03) Opinions on WFH
(1:25:05) Recognizing product velocity
(1:29:11) Advice for young founders
(1:34:47) Advice for founders in emerging markets
Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo & Apply for Funding
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Great recent interviews: Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
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Follow Jason:
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This Week in Startups is presented by:
Merge. Let your developers get back to their core product. Merge is a single API to add hundreds of integrations to your app. Integrate up to 3 customers for free today at http://merge.dev/twist.
Embroker. The Embroker Startup Insurance Program helps startups secure the most important types of insurance at a lower cost and with less hassle. Save up to 20% off of traditional insurance today at http://embroker.com/twist. While you’re there, get an extra 10% off using offer code TWIST.
Hyperice. Warm up and recover faster with the Hypervolt 2 massage gun and Normatec compression therapy boots. Save $50 off your order of $150 or more with code TWIST50 at checkout on http://hyperice.com
Today’s show:
Rewind AI CEO and Co-Founder Dan Siroker joins Jason to break down his viral fundraising strategy before diving into a demo of Rewind’s AI software (1:27). Then, Scott Bair of Lunour gives a talk on how to build a strong brand, where he dives into topics like branding, creating a logo and more! (34:49)
Follow Dan: https://twitter.com/dsiroker
Check out Rewind: https://www.rewind.ai
Time stamps:
(0:00) Dan Siroker joins Jason
(1:27) Dan discusses his method of raising capital publicly and the valuation they settled on
(9:08) Merge - Integrate up to 3 customers for free today at https://merge.dev/twist
(10:38) Advice for founders taking a high valuation, choosing the right firm, and differentiating Rewind AI from file search
(19:03) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(20:35) Dan demos Rewind AI
(25:04) Privacy concerns, dealing with legal issues, and Rewind’s enterprise use cases
(33:21) Hyperice - Get $50 off your order of $150 or more with code TWIST50 at http://hyperice.com/
(34:49) How to build a strong brand with Scott Bair
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Great recent interviews: Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt
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Follow Jason:
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This Week in Startups is presented by:
Crowdbotics. Great ideas can change the world, and Crowdbotics is the fastest way to turn those ideas into code. Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at http://crowdbotics.com/twist.
The Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub helps all founders build a better startup, at a lower cost, from day one. Startups get up to $150K in Azure credits, access to free OpenAI credits, free dev tools like GitHub, technical advisory, access to mentors and experts, and so much more. There is no funding requirement, and it only takes minutes to join. Sign up today at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups.
Release. Large enterprises pose unique challenges for SaaS startups. Unlock customers with unique needs for private and single-tenant hosting without the toil of DIY with Release Delivery. Get your first month free at https://release.com/twist.
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Today’s show:
Jason is joined by Magic.dev CEO and Co-Founder Eric Steinberger to discuss how his startup makes developers more efficient with AI by auto-generating code. The first portion of the interview features Eric demoing his software. Then, Jason and Eric dive into the impact that these rapid AI advancements will have on society (31:28), how their tools have the potential to significantly minimize coding time and what that means for entrepreneurship (13:55), and much more!
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Time stamps:
(00:00) Eric Steinberger joins Jason
(1:44) Eric and Jason explain what Magi.dev is
(3:43) Eric Demos Magic.dev
(9:13) What makes this AI model unique
(11:02) Crowdbotics - Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at http://crowdbotics.com/twist
(12:11) Magic.dev's motivation behind building their own language model
(13:55) The efficiency gains achieved with Magic.dev
(17:32) Exploring reinforcement learning and grounding the AI model
(19:45) Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub - Apply in 5 minutes for six figures in discounts at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
(21:19) The two parallel paths unfolding
(23:57) How close we are to developing more capable AI systems
(31:28) The impact of Moore's Law on technology and society
(37:34) Release - Get your first month free at https://release.com/twist
(39:03) Alternative perspectives on the pace of AI advancement
(43:14) The origins of Eric's positive outlook on AI
(47:49) Thought's on AI regulation and choke points
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Rachel joins Jason to discuss Caryn AI and its rapid rise in popularity before explaining Gen Z everyday uses for AI (1:11). They wrap up by breaking down the Senate hearing regarding AI regulation (49:56).
(0:00) Rachel joins Jason
(1:11) Rachel breaks down CarynAI
(10:33) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(11:59) The ethics of Forever Voices and creating digital AI clones
(21:25) Notion - Apply for Notion for Startups at https://notion.com/jason
(22:40) How Gen Z is using AI, AI-powered filters, and Milli Vanilli
(32:01) Hampton - Join Hampton's community of high-growth founders today at https://joinhampton.com/twist
(33:20) Jason gives a history lesson, Rupert Murdoch's infamous trial and Snapchat's AI chatbot
(49:56) AI Senate hearings
FOLLOW Rachel: https://twitter.com/_rachelbraun
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Sunny and Vinny are back to demo some new AI tools (14:08), discuss open-source vs. "ClosedAI" (38:45), and more!
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(1:31) Jason's trip to the UAE and Abu Dhabi's 30-year investment horizon
(12:39) Miro - Sign up for a free account at https://miro.com/startups
(14:08) Sunny demos ChatPDF and LLMs' future in the workforce
(24:23) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(25:41) Google's new universal translator
(30:11) What is Hugging Face?
(37:26) iConnections - Get 20% off iConnections Miami 2024 event at http://iconnections.io/twist
(38:45) Open-source vs. "ClosedAI" and the race to build AI hardware
(48:28) Comparing Google Bard to ChatGPT
(1:01:13) Google's vision for Gmail and AWS's partnership with Hugging Face
FOLLOW Vinny: https://twitter.com/VinnyLingham
FOLLOW Sunny: https://twitter.com/sundeep
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Links:
https://www.semianalysis.com/p/google-we-have-no-moat-and-neither
https://www.chatpdf.com
https://huggingface.co/espnet/kan-bayashi_ljspeech_vits
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Emmanuel de Maistre joins Jason to demo Scenario’s AI-powered game asset generator (3:54) before breaking down future applications of Scenario’s technology. Then, Presh gives a presentation on how to build no-code apps (26:41).
(0:00) Emmanuel de Maistre joins Jason
(1:29) The cost of developing video games
(3:54) Emmanuel demos Scenario
(11:29) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(12:45) Emmanuel demos Scenario continued, and the cost and use cases for this technology
(22:49) House of Macadamias - Get 20% off and a free bottle of cold-pressed macadamia oil at https://houseofmacadamias.com/twist by using code TWIST20
(24:20) Addressing artist’s concerns
(26:41) Other applications for Scenario’s technology
(29:08) Emmanuel’s prior ventures
(31:23) Regulating AI
(36:50) Crowdbotics - Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at http://crowdbotics.com/twist
(37:59) How to build No-Code apps
FOLLOW Emmanuel: https://twitter.com/emmanuel_2m
FOLLOW Presh: https://twitter.com/preshdkumar
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Dee Murthy joins Jason to discuss the origin of the Group Chat podcast before talking about his new startup, Ghost (1:44). They then delve into fostering a community, staying true to your brand, and more! (30:12)
(0:00) Dee Murthy joins Jason
(1:44) The Origin of Group Chat podcast
(11:32) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(13:06) The impact of the Group Chat podcast
(18:49) The premise of Ghost
(22:57) QuickNode - Get one month free by using code TWIST at https://go.quicknode.com/twist
(24:15) Focusing on your customers and raising capital
(30:12) Fostering a community
(37:26) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://openphone.com/twist
(39:00) Understanding your brand’s voice
(46:09) Effective influencer marketing
(52:01) More on Ghost
FOLLOW Dee: https://twitter.com/deemurthy
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Reid Hoffman joins Jason to discuss AI's current "crescendo moment," and its ability to amplify human capabilities (1:50). Then, they discuss AI regulation, real-world use cases, and much more! (25:55)
(0:00) Reid Hoffman joins Jason
(1:50) AI’s “crescendo moment,”
(12:48) Release - Get your first month free at https://release.com/twist
(14:20) AI's ability to amplify human capability
(24:21) Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub - Apply in 5 minutes for six figures in discounts at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
(25:55) Regulating AI
(35:35) Veed - Head to https://www.veed.io/pricing?utm_campaign=TWIS&utm_medium=Marketing&utm_source=YouTube and start creating professional-quality videos in minutes!
(36:45) The future of AI startups and Inflection AI's mission
(44:01) AI's real-world applications
(48:20) Compensating creators and real-world uses for AI
(57:27) Google's ability to compete in the AI race
FOLLOW Reid: https://twitter.com/reidhoffman
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Vinny and Sunny join Jason for another AI roundtable to demo ChatGPT’s web browsing capabilities (1:44), discuss AI’s effect on productivity and the workforce (13:53), demo Opus.AI and ChatGPT’s Zillow plugin (33:44), and more!
(0:00) Vinny and Sunny join Jason
(1:44) GPT-4 web browsing demo
(9:10) Inside.com’s AI strategy
(12:22) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(13:53) AI’s effect on productivity and the workforce
(23:36) Hyperice - Get $50 off your order of $150 or more with code TWIST50 at http://hyperice.com/
(25:04) Personal use cases for ChatGPT
(30:56) Market Pull
(33:44) Opus.AI demo
(39:55) Trovata - Use code TWIST at https://trovata.io/twist for 30% off one year of premium features, like AI forecasting
(41:08) Synthesia
(43:11) Zillow plugin demo
(49:51) The future of ChatGPT Plugins
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AstroForge CEO Matthew Gialich joins Jason to discuss his startup’s lofty goal of mining Platinum Group Metals from asteroids (1:11). They discuss the recent launch of their Brokkr-1 space vehicle, the company’s road map to gather PGMs successfully from space, and SpaceX’s impact on the space industry (5:42). Then, Founder University’s Kelly Schricker gives a presentation on how to set up a fundraising process for your startup (31:51).
(0:00) AstroForge’s Matthew Gialich joins Jason
(1:11) The purpose of mining asteroids
(5:42) Brokkr-1 mission
(10:38) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(12:09) AstroForge’s roadmap
(16:07) Unit economics of hardware-based businesses
(17:38) Scaling Virgin Orbit and Virgin Galactic
(20:51) Pilot - Get 20% off the first 6 months at https://pilot.com/twist
(22:20) The evolution of the space economy
(30:43) Crowdbotics - Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at http://crowdbotics.com/twist
(31:51) How to set up a fundraising process
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Airbnb CEO and Co-Founder Brian Chesky joins Jason to tell the story of Airbnb’s early startup struggles (1:29) and discuss how the company has restructured operations to heighten focus on the product and its customers (16:05). They dive into addressing customer complaints, hyper-focused marketing, the AI opportunity for Airbnb, and much more (40:26).
(0:00) Airbnb’s Brain Chesky joins Jason
(1:29) Brian’s experience with early rejection
(14:48) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(16:05) Airbnb’s company structure and focusing on product first
(25:26) Miro - Sign up for a free account at https://miro.com/startups
(26:42) Staying focused, getting permission from your customers, and Airbnb’s new updates
(38:53) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(40:26) Addressing customer complaints and Brian’s philosophy on remote work
(49:23) AI’s future in hospitality and Brian’s personal experience with ChatGPT
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First up, Jason breaks down Uber’s huge Q1 results! (1:21) Then, Unlearn.AI CEO Charles Fisher joins to discuss the advancements his company is making in fast-tracking clinical trials (9:49), how machine learning is used in drug development (16:24), Unlearn’s business model (35:24), and more!
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(1:21) Uber’s Q1 earnings
(8:31) QuickNode - Get one month free by using code TWIST at https://go.quicknode.com/twist
(9:49) The foundation of Unlearn.AI
(12:42) Unlearn.AI’s impact on the clinical trial process
(14:24) Criticisms of the current clinical trial model
(16:24) ML’s Impact on drug discovery
(24:16) CacheFly - Get 10 terabytes free by signing up at https://twist.cachefly.com
(25:42) The data used in the medical system today
(34:05) Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub - Apply in 5 minutes for six figures in discounts at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
(35:24) Unlearn.AI’s business model
(40:22) Building a foundational model for health
(44:06) The pace of AI today vs. the previous decade
(46:35) More on Unlearn.AI’s business model
(48:15) Creating foundational datasets in health
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Jason is joined by Semafor Co-Founder and EIC Ben Smith to dive into his new book and explore the current state of media. They break down BuzzFeed vs Gawker, why media unions might not work (29:35), the future of journalism (36:54), and much more!
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(1:55) Semafor's Ben Smith joins Jason
(4:27) Ben's career in media
(6:19) The previous era of publishing
(9:13) The significance of BuzzFeed and Gawker
(13:49) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(14:53) Gawker's ethos
(19:31) The bet on companies like Facebook for media
(23:25) BuzzFeed's future
(24:51) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(26:07) Vice and Vox
(29:35) Unions in media
(35:34) iConnections - Get 20% off iConnections Miami 2024 event at https://iConnections.io/twist
(36:54) The clash between journalism and business
(45:34) Broadcast TV and going direct
(46:19) What is happening with Fox and CNN
(52:48) SBF and Semafor
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Sunny and Vinny are back to break down ChatGPT's latest innovation: the Code Interpreter. They demonstrate its capabilities with two separate datasets on EVs in America and US Bank Failures (10:58) before discussing how platforms like ChatGPT will revolutionize organizational efficiency (31:19).
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(2:06) ChatGPT's new code interpreter
(9:24) OpenPhone - Start your free trial and get 20% off at https://openphone.com/twist
(10:58) ChatGPT's Code Interpreter example with EV data
(23:50) Coda - Get a $1,000 startup credit at https://coda.io/twist
(25:13) The global GPU shortage
(28:10) ChatGPT's Code Interpreter example with US Bank Failures
(31:19) How ChatGPT will change the modern-day organization
(38:55) Release - Get your first month free at https://release.com/twist
(40:27) Getting more efficient with ChatGPTs new updates
(47:53) Web browsing with ChatGPT
(56:11) How this technology will enable people
(1:04:15) How this has impacted Sunny
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OTHER LINKS:
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TechCrunch's Alex Wilhelm joins Jason to break down the big tech's Q1 earning reports (0:53). They discuss Google's culture of entitlement, Microsoft's AI momentum, Meta's year of efficiency, how Amazon may be in for a few quarters of pain, and Snap's double-digit drop (21:11).
(0:00) Nick kicks off the show
(0:53) TechCrunch's Alex Wilhelm joins Jason
(1:23) Reflecting on SVB contagion
(3:48) First Republic Bank and BuzzFeed's stock
(6:16) Uber's profits
(8:23) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(9:56) The SF boom/bust
(14:52) More on BuzzFeed
(19:41) Miro - Sign up for a free account at https://miro.com/startups
(21:11) Google's earnings
(25:28) Google's culture of entitlement
(31:40) Integrating ChatGPT into your workflow
(35:47) AI innovation in hospitality
(38:!2) Crowdbotics - Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at http://crowdbotics.com/twist
(39:23) Microsoft's earnings
(43:19) Meta earnings
(54:29) Amazon's earnings
(1:04:08) Snap's earnings
(1:11:34) Thoughts on TikTok
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Billy McFarland joins Jason to discuss the lessons he has learned from his Fyre Fest fraud, before discussing the festival’s origin story and what led him to winding up in jail (1:36). This leads to an all-encompassing conversation about Billy’s early days as an entrepreneur, his experience in prison, and if he is a changed man (13:46).
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(1:36) Reflecting on Fyre Festival
(6:57) The origin of Billy’s charisma & communication
(11:31) Billy’s first experience with computers
(12:29) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(13:46) Spling
(14:40) Billy’s experience in solitary confinement
(17:52) The origins of Fyre Festival
(25:34) Pilot - Get 20% off the first 6 months at https://pilot.com/twist
(27:06) Billy’s behavioral changes
(29:02) Fyre Festival ticket sales
(30:41) Fyre’s board of directors
(36:22) DIY Syndrom
(39:28) Hyperice - Get $50 off your order of $150 or more with code TWIST50 at http://hyperice.com/
(40:57) Billy’s early release from prison
(43:37) Billy’s prison experience
(46:22) The final moments before Fyre Festival
(50:44) Can we trust Billy Macfarland 2.0?
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Vinny and Sunny join Jason to discuss the three phases of AI adoption and the emergence of new business models (1:55), which leads to a conversation about Grimes open-sourcing her AI-generated vocals before debating whether the government should regulate AI (24:57). They wrap with a conversation about AI’s technical constraints, OpenAI’s transparency issues, and the future of startups (39:31).
(0:00) Show start
(1:04) Vinny and Sunny join Jason
(1:55) The three phases of AI adoption
(11:15) CacheFly - Get 10 terabytes free by signing up at https://twist.cachefly.com
(12:41) Building AI applications
(18:27) House of Macadamias - Get 20% off your first purchase and a free bottle of cold-pressed macadamia oil at http://houseofmacadamias.com/twist by using code twist20
(19:59) Emerging business models
(24:57) Grimes’ approach to AI-generated music
(28:31) Notion - Take the first step toward an organized, happier team. Apply for Notion for Startups at https://notion.com/jason.
(30:04) Regulating AI
(39:31) The technical constraints of AI
(45:33) Becoming more efficient with AI
(51:16) OpenAI’s lack of transparency
(1:01:44) Lessons from Mahalo
(1:05:55) The future of startups
(1:08:36) Reflecting on the Starship launch
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Jason starts the show by breaking down Spotify’s latest earnings report before discussing pop star Grimes taking to Twitter to announce a new business model for her AI-generated music (1:44). Then, Cafe X CEO Henry Hu joins Jason to discuss their latest equity crowdfund and being resilient, surviving a downturn, and more (18:22).
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(1:44) Spotify Earnings
(8:25) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(9:56) Grimes takes an AI-based music approach
(16:57) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(18:22) What is Cafe X?
(26:20) Advantages of a robot arm
(31:10) Brilliant.org - Get 20% off an annual subscription at http://brilliant.org/twist
(32:40) Cafe X’s pivot
(38:07) Pricing of the Cafe X system
(40:54) Cafe X’s OS
(42:42) Raising equity crowdfunding
(43:11) Navigating edge issues
(45:22) Finding success and Cafe X’s current focus
(50:38) Inventing menu items and other use cases
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Tome CEO Keith Peiris joins Jason to demo Tome’s AI-powered text-to-presentation platform (10:25). They discuss concerns about the pace of AI and the prevalence of 10x engineers (35:55), before Velocity Growth’s Jen Bryan breaks down how to get started with paid ads (47:19).
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(2:013) Tome CEO Keith Peiris joins Jason
(5:27) Creating a pitch deck with Tome
(8:48) Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub - Apply in 5 minutes for six figures in discounts at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
(10:25) Tome Demo
(23:10) Clumio - Start a free backup, or sign up for a demo at https://clumio.com/twist
(24:28) Datasets and What the future holds
(28:18) Integrating AI elements into Tome's platform
(29:51) Deploying capital responsibly
(31:53) Acquiring talent
(34:36) Mercury - Apply in minutes and get up to $5M in FDIC insurance at https://mercury.com
(35:55) Concerns about the pace of AI
(44:12) The prevalence of the 10x engineer
(47:19) Velocity Growth's Jen Bryan on getting started with paid advertising
(48:29) What is advertising?
(50:15) Problem / Solution fit
(53:12) See competitor ads
(54:44) Building custom audiences
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Jason recaps SpaceX's Starship rocket launch (2:06) and discusses BuzzFeed's 15% RIF and Fox News settling its Dominion Voting Systems lawsuit (9:11). He also covers Reddit's announcement to charge large AI companies for data and Tiger Global's $12.7B fund markdown (19:40). The show ends with another edition of Ask Jason (34:41).
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(2:06) Recapping Jason's experience at Space X's Starship launch
(7:52) Pilot - Get 20% off the first 6 months at https://pilot.com/twist
(9:11) BuzzFeed's 15% RIF
(14:07) Fox News settled with Dominion Voting Systems
(18:20) Issuu - Sign up for free or get 50% off an annual premium account by using promo code twist at https://issuu.com/podcast
(19:40) Reddit to charge AI companies for its data
(27:50) Tiger Global's 20% markdown
(33:13) Linode - Apply to Linode's Rise program for a $500 credit and up to six figures in discounts at https://linode.com/twist
(34:41) Ask Jason!
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
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Jason hosts another pitch competition featuring two startups from our Founder University program! Apply for Founder University: https://course.founder.university
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(3:35) Jason and Presh describe who Founder University is for
(8:35) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(9:52) Alexandra Bellensweig pitches HumHum
(22:30) Presh's thoughts on HumHum
(27:02) CacheFly - Get 10 terabytes free by signing up at https://twist.cachefly.com
(28:28) Russell Palmer pitches Cyberfilm
(37:56) QuickNode - Get one month free by using code TWIST at https://go.quicknode.com/twist
(39:11) Creating fantastic branding
(47:56) Deliberations
(50:08) Jason picks a company
(50:58) Q&A with Jason and Presh
FOLLOW Presh: https://twitter.com/preshdkumar
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Runway CEO Cristóbal Valenzuela joins Jason to discuss their suite of generative AI video editing tools (3:03), Runway's AI Film Festival and the rapid evolution of filmmaking (22:21), Runway's ability to lower the barrier to entry for aspiring filmmakers (36:05), and more!
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(3:03) What is Runway?
(6:39) Runway's text-to-video demo
(11:08) Clumio - Start a free backup, or sign up for a demo at https://clumio.com/twist
(12:08) Latent Diffusion paper
(16:30) The Late Show With Stephen Colbert
(20:51) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(22:21) Runway's AI Film Festival
(29:08) The rapid evolution of filmmaking
(31:59) Favorite directors and films
(36:05) Lowering the barrier of entry to filmmaking
(41:20) Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub - Apply in 5 minutes for six figures in discounts at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
(42:51) Driving costs of filmmaking to zero
(44:57) Training Runway's data set & Fan Fiction
(52:07) Runway's generative capabilities
(54:30) Safety concerns
(58:20) The challenges of operating Runway
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Rachel is back to help Jason break down the news! First, they cover Google reportedly “panicking” over Samsung potentially switching to Bing as its device-default search engine, how Google can beat OpenAI/Microsoft,” and Project Magi” (1:43). Then, they discuss some recent AI-generated viral hits and what it means for the future of the music industry (21:48) before wrapping up on the possibility that Brian Armstrong may relocate Coinbase outside of the US (49:25).
(0:00) Jason and Rachel tee up today’s topics
(1:43) Samsung’s possible switch to Bing
(10:08) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(11:30) Google’s effort to catch OpenAI
(13:24) Google’s Project Magi
(20:20) Merge - Integrate up to 3 customers for free today at https://merge.dev/twist
(21:48) AI-generated hits: Heart on My Sleeve
(33:16) Mercury - Apply in minutes and get up to $5M in FDIC insurance at https://mercury.com
(34:45) Real Kanye or Fake Kanye
(40:41) AI Jason and a special guest
(49:25) Coinbase considers leaving the US market
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Uizard CEO Tony Beltramelli joins Jason to demo Uizard’s AI-powered UI designer (6:01) and discusses how he iterated on Uizard’s product-market fit and the competition it faces (21:20). Then, Kelly Schricker from Founder University breaks down how to choose a CRM and how to build one yourself in Notion (42:54)!
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(2:21) CEO of Uizard, Tony Beltramelli, joins Jason
(6:01) Tony demos Uizard’s text-to-UI platform
(13:52) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(15:09) Uizard’s target market
(21:20) Attaining product market fit
(29:25) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(30:56z) Uizard’s competition
(35:03) GPT4’s impact
(37:52) First impressions of Google’s Bard
(40:32) Trovata - Go to https://trovata.io/TWIST/ and use code TWIST for 30% off premium features for one year
(42:54) Choosing a CRM
(48:18) Understanding how to set up a CRM
(54:18) Demo of a CRM in Notion
(58:48) CRM management
(1:00:35) Top 4 failures when implementing a CRM
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Hyfe CEO Joe Brew joins Jason to discuss quantifying cough to prevent the spread of disease. They break down how Hyfe’s technology works (2:48), how his company diagnoses diseases via audio and qualifying health data (14:47), before Presh joins to demonstrate how to easily create business content for your startup with ChatGPT (40:16).
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(2:48) How does Hyfe work?
(9:03) Notion - Sign up for FREE at https://notion.com/jason
(10:32) Acoustic AI and its potential
(14:57) What is a cough, and why do they happen?
(17:17) Chronic Cough
(21:06) Hyperice - Get $50 off your order of $150 or more with code TWIST50 at https://hyperice.com/
(22:34) Managing a cough
(25:18) Diagnosing other diseases through audio
(31:56) Licensing the technology and pandemic prevention
(38:47) Mayfair - Get 4.35% APY on your cash and increase your FDIC insurance coverage at https://getmayfair.com/twist
(40:16) Quantifying health data
(43:45) Generating ideas from existing content using ChatGPT
(49:45) Using Chat-GPT for your product or service from scratch
(53:51) Creating micro-content with Chat-GPT
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Vinny and Sunny join Jason to discuss AI’s blistering pace and compare its development to other product launches (2:47). They also break down the anxiety artists and developers feel from AI automation (14:47), the rise of AutoGPTs, Twitter’s reported LLM project, and more (37:01).
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(2:47) The blistering pace of AI
(9:44) Developer builds Flappy Bird in 1-hour
(11:24) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(12:53) Developers leveraging gains in AI
(14:47) Ai anxiety
(23:55) Instacart’s ChatGPT plugin
(26:06) Preserving your advantage against AI
(29:10) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(30:14) AI artists
(35:54) Crowdbotics - Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at http://crowdbotics.com/twist
(37:01) Automating with AutoGPT
(47:09) LLMs vs. Knowledge retrieval systems
(57:06) Is Google’s Bard behind?
(1:02:42) Twitter’s alleged generative AI project
(1:08:30) Ethereum and Bitcoin updates
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Copy.ai Founder Paul Yacoubian joins Jason to break down the evolution and progress that OpenAI has made with its GPT LLMs (2:38) before discussing the radical shifts that AI will cause across most industries (20:46). They end the show with a demo of Copy.ai and the legal issues surrounding training datasets (48:54).
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(2:38) The evolution of GPT-2 to GPT-3
(8:16) Mercury - Apply in minutes and get up to $5M in FDIC insurance at https://mercury.com
(9:45) How GPT summarizes work
(13:39) Working with GPT-4
(19:14) Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub - Apply in 5 minutes for six figures in discounts at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
(20:46) Radical shifts in AI
(29:59) Accepting AI
(36:59) Mayfair - Get 4.35% APY on your cash and increase your FDIC insurance coverage at https://getmayfair.com/twist
(38:29) Working systems with ChatGPT
(45:20) Who wins between Google and OpenAI
(48:54) Copy.ai demo
(52:38) Licensing of the underlying data
(57:10) The demand for hardware when developing AI
(59:53) More on Copy.ai
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The man behind the anonymous accounts “prayingforexits” on Instagram and “@mrexits” on Twitter joins Jason for a jam-packed episode.
Topics covered: what founders can learn from Logan Roy (2:29), what recent ZIRP fraudsters have in common (21:39), where GPT-4 ranks in terms of revolutionary product launches (31:28), AI’s impact moving forward, the state of VC (1:02:29), and so much more!
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(2:29) Succession, Logan Roy’s mentality & winning
(9:22) Purpose-driven CEOS
(20:07) Orgspace - Get $2000 in credits at http://orgspace.io/twist
(21:39) ZIRP fraudsters
(29:56) Issuu - Sign up for free or get 50% off an annual premium account by using promo code twist at https://issuu.com/podcast
(31:28) Revolutionary product launches
(42:24) Brilliant.org - Get 20% off an annual subscription at http://brilliant.org/twist
(43:52) AI’s impact moving forward
(1:02:29) The state of VC
(1:18:51) Mayor Jason
FOLLOW Praying For Exits: https://twitter.com/mrexits
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Jason breaks down the valuation tension surrounding YC demo days (2:36), how to get better prices on YC-equivalent startups (8:59), Garry Tan's response to complaints (15:18), and more! Then, Jason reacts to a law firm's leaked expectations list that went viral (29:29) before wrapping with some thoughts about Substack (41:59).
(0:00) Jason tees up Friday's topics!
(2:36) Understanding the valuation tension of YC's demo day; why some investors resent YC
(8:59) Jason's three ways to avoid overpaying for YC startups
(13:56) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(15:18) Garry Tan's response to demo day valuation complaints; Harry Stebbings and Garry Tan's back and forth on valuations/expectations
(24:07) Linode - Apply to Linode's Rise program for a $500 credit and up to six figures in discounts at https://linode.com/twist
(25:34) How startups that got accepted into YC can cold email top VCs to raise pre-demo day
(29:29) Jason reacts to a law firm's leaked expectations list that went viral
(36:13) QuickNode - Get one month free by using code TWIST at https://go.quicknode.com/twist
(37:25) Reactions to the viral expectations list
(41:59) Substack publishes 2021 gross revenue, net loss, and cash on hand and Jason breaks down the company's position
Email your pitch deck to yc@launch.co if you were rejected by YC and want to meet with the LAUNCH team!
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Satya Patel joins Jason to discuss the economics of being a self-funded GP and the structure of their fund (6:51). Then, they have an all-encompassing discussion about the challenges of running Google today, the state of VC, and much more (15:44). Before wrapping, they discuss their investing frameworks and when and when they will not break them (43:29).
(0:00) Nick kicks off the show
(1:21) Satya's early days a Google
(6:51) The economics of being a solo GP
(9:29) Mercury - Apply in minutes and get up to $5M in FDIC insurance at https://mercury.com
(10:58) The structure of a fund
(15:44) The challenges of running Google today
(17:51) The evolution of chat-based search
(22:55) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(24:25) The balkanization of AI data
(29:55) The pace of AI and the harsh reality of the private sector
(38:11) Clumio - Start a free backup, or sign up for a demo at https://clumio.com/twist
(39:28) Saying "no" to external funds
(43:29) Flexible Frameworks
(58:05) Founder Archetypes
(1:01:38) Being "founder friendly" and the importance of board meetings
(1:14:09) Screendoor
(1:22:25) Satya's thoughts on SVB
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Jason hosts another pitch competition featuring three startups from our Founder University program! Apply for Founder University: https://course.founder.university
(0:00) Nick kicks off the show
(1:07) Introducing Founder University
(7:14) Pitch 01: Xinyue Ma of Sticker
(11:56) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(13:00) Jason’s feedback for Sticker
(15:07) Pitch 02: Joseph Homsy of Outmost
(17:11) Jason’s feedback for Outmost
(23:14) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(24:40) Pitch 03: Cam Richardson of PaySquad
(26:55) Jason’s feedback for PaySquad
(29:45) Ranking the pitches
(35:20) Mayfair - Get 4% APY on your idle cash automatically at https://getmayfair.com/twist
(36:50) The importance of product velocity
(39:41) Final thoughts on Sticker
(42:23) Final thoughts on Outmost
(44:26) Final thoughts on PaySquad
(46:04) Jason invests $25k in…
(47:39) Q&A with Jason
FOLLOW Kelly: https://twitter.com/KSchricks
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First up, Jason touches on Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund disclosing which VC firms it has made LP investments in (2:48), which leads to him pondering the human rights issues and if founders care where their money comes from (18:52). Jason caps off the show by breaking down the SEC’s charges against Frank founder Charlie Javice for allegedly closing a $175M acquisition based on over 4M fake user accounts (30:18).
(0:00) Jason kicks off today’s show
(2:48) Saudi Arabia discloses LP positions
(8:24) MasterClass - Get 15% off an annual membership at https://masterclass.com/startups
(9:52) Why is Saudi Arabia diversifying?
(17:21) Miro - Sign up for a free account at https://miro.com/startups
(18:52) Founders’ thoughts on where their funding comes from
(21:26) Jason’s passion for human rights
(29:01) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(30:18) Frank founder charged with fraud
(33:03) Be clear about your customers
(34:35) Allegations against Charlie Javice
(47:00) Lessons for founders
(44:56) Ivy League convicts
LINKS:
Sanabil Investments LP Disclosure document
https://www.sanabil.com/en/our-partners/
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Jason kicks off the show by breaking down clips from a recent conversation between Marc Andreessen, Ben Horowitz, and Adam Neumann about Saudi Arabia’s promising startup scene (2:44). This leads to Jason diving into new city concepts and Trump’s presidential campaign (13:01). Then, BioFluff CEO Martin Stübler joins the show to discuss his sustainable fashion alternative (30:44).
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(2:44) Saudi Arabia’s promising startup scene
(11:31) Coda - The All-in-one doc for teams, sign up for free at https://coda.io/twist
(13:01) Creating cities and societies
(18:21) Trump-topia
(23:33) Mercury - Apply in minutes and get up to $5M in FDIC insurance at https://mercury.com
(25:02) Trump’s presidential campaign
(29:16) Revelo - Get 20% off the first 3 months by mentioning TWIST at https://revelo.io/twist
(30:44) BioFluff CEO Martin Stübler on developing plant-based fur
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Stephen Wolfram of Wolfram Research joins Jason for an all-encompassing conversation about AI, from the history of neural nets (7:53) to how modern ai emulates the human brain (19:33). This leads to an in-depth discussion about the pace at which AI is evolving (43:46), The “Post-Knowledge Work” era (58:45), the unintended consequences of AI (1:03:52), and so much more.
(0:00) Nick kicks off the show
(1:24) Under the hood of ChatGPT
(7:53) What is a neural net?
(10:05) Cast.ai - Get a free cloud cost audit with a personal consultation at https://cast.ai/twist
(11:33) Determining values and weights in a neural net
(18:28) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(19:33) Emulating the human brain
(23:26) Defining computational irreducibility
(26:14) Emergent behavior and the rules of language
(31:49) Discovering logic + creating a computational language
(38:10) Clumio - Start a free backup, or sign up for a demo at https://clumio.com/twist
(39:38) Wolfram’s ChatGPT plugin
(43:46) The rapid pace of AI
(58:45) The “Post-Knowledge Work” era
(1:03:52) The unintended consequences of AI
(1:11:45) Rewarding innovation
(1:16:12) The possibility of AGI
(1:20:07) Creating a general-purpose robotic system
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Vinny Lingham joins Jason to break down the state of crypto’s de-platforming by the US government. They discuss recent happenings with Coinbase (2:13), Balaji’s Bitcoin bet (20:00), Binance (38:23), SBF (44:07), and more! Then, they wrap with a discussion about the coming balkanization of AI (52:54).
(0:00) Jason tees up today’s topics
(2:13) Coinbases’ Wells notice & the state of crypto
(8:08) Pilot - Get 20% off the first 6 months at https://pilot.com/twist
(9:36) Clarity within the crypto industry
(15:06) The future of Bitcoin in the US
(18:29) Orgspace - Get $2000 in credits at http://orgspace.io/twist
(20:00) Balaji’s bet and hyperinflation
(25:50) A debate on whether to short Coinbase
(36:52) Issuu - Sign up for free or get 50% off an annual premium account by using promo code twist at https://issuu.com/podcast
(38:23) CFTC sues Binance
(44:07) SBF’s indictment
(49:00) Why is the government clamping down on crypto?
(52:54) The balkanization of AI
FOLLOW Vinny: https://twitter.com/vinnylingham
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Producer Rachel joins Jason to break down the latest tech news. They cover AOC's arguments against banning TikTok (2:29), Alibaba's six-way split (18:43), Disney's metaverse cuts (28:17), Substack's equity crowdfunding (39:16), Lyft's precarious position, and more! (55:09) Then, Jason breaks down the case for shorting Coinbase. (1:12:14)
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(2:29) Reacting to AOC's arguments to not ban TikTok
(13:39) LMNT - Get a free sample pack with any purchase at http://drinklmnt.com/TWIST
(15:09) The CCP’s interest in TikTok
(18:43) Alibaba's six-way split
(26:49) Mercury - Banking built for startups. See more at https://mercury.com/twist
(28:17) Disney sunsetting its Metaverse division
(38:09) Crowdbotics - Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at http://crowdbotics.com/twist
(39:16) Substack's equity crowdfunding
(55:09) Lyft's precarious position
(1:04:18) Twitter shutters legacy verification badges
(1:12:14) Laying out the Coinbase short argument
FOLLOW Rachel: https://twitter.com/_rachelbraun
FOLLOW Nick: https://twitter.com/nickcalacanis
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Jason starts the show by discussing First Citizens acquiring SVB’s assets (2:03) before diving into a Reddit post detailing how generative AI changed a 3D artist’s job overnight (9:09). Jason wraps by interviewing Sarika Bajaj, the CEO, and Co-founder of Refiberd, as she dives into the reality of the recycling process, how they are using spectroscopy to recycle textiles, and more (20:28)!
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(2:03) A breakdown of First Citizens’ purchase of SVB
(8:05) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(9:09) Reddit Post: A radical change for 3D artists
(18:59) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(20:28) Sarika Bajaj, CEO of Refiberd joins Jason
(21:00) What happens to our textiles?
(25:20) Refiberd’s solution
(30:31) Solving for inefficiencies in the recycling process
(38:05) Brilliant.org - Get 20% off an annual subscription at http://brilliant.org/twist
(39:33) The state of recycling today
(49:23) Raising capital in today’s market
(54:25) Navigating gate SVB collapse
FOLLOW Sarika: https://refiberd.com/
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
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Acquired co-hosts Ben and David are BACK to discuss the state of the VC market and YC shutting down its Continuity Fund (6:20) before diving into industries that benefitted from ZIRP (26:35). They also break down which social apps they want to own and why (45:29). Then, Ben and Jason wrap up the show by discussing the future of Amazon and Starfish Space, a new space startup (1:11:48)
(0:00) Nick tees up today’s topics
(1:36) David’s time at Stanford
(6:20) Ben’s private market snapshot
(8:49) Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub - Apply in 5 minutes for six figures in discounts at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
(10:19) David’s private market snapshot
(16:19) Reacting to YC closing down its Continuity Fund
(25:35) QuickNode - Go to http://quicknode.com/ and use the code TWIST for a free month on their feature-packed Build Plan
(26:35) Industries that benefitted from ZIRP
(35:08) House of Macadamias - Get 20% off at https://houseofmacadamias.com/twist by using code TWIST20
(36:36) How compelling is AI?
(45:29) Owning either Instagram, Linked In, or YouTube
(48:15) Rational and Wildcard: Who is likely to acquire TikTok?
(53:44) Twitter product development
(1:00:51) Reclaiming lost time
(1:11:48) The future of Amazon
(1:19:57) Apple to spend $1B on producing theatrical releases + Project Titan
(1:25:21) SOTD: Keeping satellites on course with Starfish Space
FOLLOW Ben: https://twitter.com/gilbert
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Jason kicks off today's episode by reacting to TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew's testimony in front of Congress (1:41) before delving into the news that Coinbase was served a Wells notice by the SEC (22:57). Then, he discusses the reports that Do Kwon has been arrested in Montenegro (32:35) before wrapping up with more information on China and TikTok (35:44).
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(1:41) Jason reacts to Shou Zi Chew's testimony in front of Congress
(6:14) China's use of private companies to manipulate its population
(11:02) Linode - Apply to Linode's Rise program for up to six figures in discounts at https://linode.com/twist
(12:29) TikTok's ability to influence our youth
(16:48) Chinese espionage
(21:27) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(22:57) SEC serves Coinbase a Wells Notice
(31:19) Clumio - Visit https://clumio.com/twist to start a free backup or sign up for a demo
(32:35) Do Kwon arrested in Montenegro
(35:44) More information on China and TikTok
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
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Jenny Lefcourt of Freestyle VC joins Jason for an insightful conversation. They delve into the mission of All Raise and the importance of diversity in venture capital (2:04). Jenny shares her thoughts on embracing non-consensus bets and her experiences investing in Narvar and Discord (20:04). Additionally, they discuss the value of strategy meetings in comparison to traditional board meetings (59:10).
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(2:04) Co-Founding All Raise: Promoting Diversity in Venture Capital
(9:53) Prenuvo - Save $300 on Full Body Scans at http://prenuvo.com/twist
(11:23) Biases Towards Certain Business Models
(15:05) Identifying and Avoiding Unsuccessful Business Models
(18:54) LinkedIn Jobs - Post Your First Job for Free at https://linkedIn.com/angel
(20:04) Embracing Non-Consensus Bets
(22:53) Jenny’s Investment in Narvar
(28:16) Understanding the Economics of a Seed Fund
(35:14) Comparing Hype: Generative AI versus Web 3.0
(40:47) Miro - Collaborate with Unlimited Team Members for Free at https://miro.com/startups/
(42:28) Insights from Jenny's Investment in Discord
(47:05) Attaining Product-Market Fit and Making a Significant Impact
(56:56) Exiting Deals: When to Move On
(59:10) Strategy Meetings Compared to Board Meetings
(1:04:04) Jenny's Ideal Timeline for Committing to Investments
FOLLOW Jenny: https://twitter.com/jennylefcourt
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
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Today on the podcast, we have a new format for you! Jason will hear four pitches from Founder University participants and choose ONE startup to invest $25K in! (1:45)
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show and explains the pitch format!
(1:45) Jason brings on Presh and Kelly to explain the fundamentals of Founder University and introduces today's pitches!
(13:44) Squarespace - Use code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(16:18) George Lam pitches Fantastic Funding
(21:18) Naman Dwivedi pitches Promptify
(25:59) Pilot - Go to https://pilot.com/twist for 20% off your first 6 months
(27:30) Phil Boucher pitches OpenSpot
(34:00) Matt Edminster pitches Renegade Labs
(39:22) Fennel - Join the waitlist and get your first month free at http://fennel.com/twist
(40:35) Kelly and Presh's pick for best return for LPs
(45:33) The live audience votes!
(50:22) What Founder University meant to these Founders
(53:39) Jason makes his decision on who will receive $25K
Check out the startups!:
https://fantasticfunding.com
https://www.promptify.ai
https://www.findopenspot.com
https://www.renegadelabs.io
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
FOLLOW Presh: https://twitter.com/preshdkumar
FOLLOW Kelly: https://twitter.com/KSchricks
Rachel Reporting joins Jason to read the news! First, they give an update on the banking crisis and how it’s impacting startups (1:34). Then, they cover Balaji’s huge Bitcoin bet and his predictions for the future (14:17) before breaking down OpenAI’s launch of GPT-4 (35:07). Finally, Jason wraps up with some Jay Trading updates (57:28)!
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(1:34) Banking crisis update & how it affects startups
(10:11) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(11:14) Best practices for banking
(14:17) Balaji’s huge Bitcoin bet
(22:18) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(23:42) Balaji’s predictions for the future
(32:41) Ray Dalio’s The Changing World Order
(33:46) CacheFly - Get 10 Terabyte free forever if you signup at http://twist.cachefly.com
(35:07) A breakdown of OpenAI’s launch of GPT-4
(57:28) Jay Trade update
FOLLOW Rachel: https://twitter.com/_rachelbraun
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
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Molly is joined by Laurie Yoler as they dive into her early experiences in VC before discussing how she became the first investor in Tesla (1:45). Next, Laurie talks about her time at Qualcomm and Playground then they wrap with a discussion about AI and how Laurie’s investments were impacted by the pandemic (30:31).
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(1:45) Arriving in Venture
(7:36) Laurie’s first investments
(13:39) LinkedIn Jobs - Go to https://linkedIn.com/angel and post your first job for free.
(14:49) Investing in Tesla
(21:21) Prenuvo - Get $300 off at http://prenuvo.com/twist
(22:51) Raising money for a car company
(26:22) Finding strategic partners
(30:31) Laurie’s time at Qualcomm and autonomous vehicles
(37:11) Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub - Apply in 5 minutes for six figures in discounts at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
(38:42) Joining Playground
(41:29) Leaf Logistics
(45:44) Benefitting from the pandemic
(48:54) Investing in AI
FOLLOW Laurie: https://twitter.com/laurieyoler
FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
FOUNDERS! Subscribe to the Founder University podcast:
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Wealthfront Chairman and Co-Founder Andy Rachleff joins Jason for an incredible interview! They start the show by discussing the SVB situation before breaking down different tech mini-crashes throughout Silicon Valley history (2:28). Then, they break down Wealthfront’s business and how to know if a business has market pull (40:49). They finish up the show by covering a range of topics, from AI to stock-based comp (1:13:45).
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(2:28) SVB situation
(9:26) The FDIC’s $250K limit
(13:27) MasterClass - Get 15% off an annual membership at https://masterclass.com/startups
(14:49) The bank run
(16:17) The SVB ecosystem
(22:20) Merge - Integrate up to 5 customers for free today at https://merge.dev/twist
(23:45) Cycle changes
(36:15) How to judge a VC
(39:27) Issuu - Get 50% off when you go to https://issuu.com/podcast and use promo code twist
(40:49) Wealthfront’s operation
(48:58) Reactions to the market
(55:00) Modern analysis and stock buybacks
(1:01:24 ) Caring about profitability
(1:02:06) Attaining market pull
(1:13:45) Andy’s thoughts on AI
(1:16:31) The makeup of a great entrepreneur
(1:18:50) Stock-based compensation
(1:25:06) How we avoided inflation
FOLLOW Andy: https://twitter.com/arachleff
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
Alora CEO and Co-Founder Luke Young joins Molly to discuss ocean agriculture and the ability to grow crops offshore (1:17). They discuss the progression and engineering that have propelled Alora’s innovations (11:55) and the challenges of growing at sea (21:53).
(0:00) Nick kicks off the show
(1:17) Alora’s mission and technological advancements
(5:46) Mitigation and adaptation
(7:58) The first taste test
(10:25) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(11:55) Alora’s progression and timeline
(16:26) Designing infrastructure and engineering fertilizer
(20:25) LMNT - Get a free sample pack with any purchase at http://drinklmnt.com/TWIST
(21:53) Challenges of growing on the ocean
(26:14) Alora’s Business Model
(28:56) Fennel - Join the fennel waitlist now and get your first month free at http://fennel.com/twist
(30:10) Salt tolerance
(35:17) Alora’s Customer and cost of development
FOLLOW Luke: https://twitter.com/lukeheatonyoung
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FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
Jason kicks off Monday by recapping this weekend’s chaos caused by the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank (1:45). Then, he advises founders on preventing a scare like this from happening again before interviewing Andrew R McHugh of Wist Labs, who is building a platform to capture and relive memories in AR and VR (13:40).
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(1:45) The past weekend’s chaos and triaging startups
(12:18) Pilot - Get 20% off the first 6 months at https://pilot.com/twist
(13:40) The government’s response and advice for founders
(24:12) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(25:39) Andrew R McHugh of Wist Labs
(37:28) Brilliant.org - Get 20% off an annual subscription at http://brilliant.org/twist
(38:56) Reliving past experiences and Generative AI applications
(57:00) Raising capital in the weeks to come
FOLLOW Andrew: https://twitter.com/armthethinker
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
Check out Founder University the podcast at https://www.founder.university/podcast
Jason reacts to Silicon Valley Bank being shut down by the FDIC and breaks down what this means for founders and VCs.
(0:00) Breaking down the SVB situation
(4:28) FDIC press release
(7:41) What Jason hopes will happen
(10:16) Defcon 1
(12:39) Thoughts on emergency funding
(15:46) How does the SVB situation affect early-stage fundraising
(26:59) SVB sells their securities
(29:10) USV email to founders
(31:06) SVB CEO addresses the situation
(33:07) Bill Ackman’s response
(34:31)Mark Suster’s response
(35:52) Audience questions
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
Zach Coelius is BACK with Jason to take questions from founders and investors! They cover investing on Zoom post-COVID (6:07), diligence red flags (13:13), investor red flags (27:32), building relationships prior to fundraising (48:59), and more!
(0:00) Jason Kicks off the show
(1:21) Managing time as an angel
(6:07) Moving to zoom instead of the room
(9:50) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(10:54) Servicing new deals vs. existing ones
(13:13) Red flags to look for in a syndicate startup deal
(20:18) Coda - The All-in-one doc for teams, sign up for free at https://coda.io/twist
(21:47) Your options when there is no path to profitability
(27:32) Red flags when courting angel investors
(41:10) Contra - Get $500 off your first hire at https://contra.com/twist
(42:35) Assumptions that have evolved
(45:23) Recent learnings in the past few years
(48:59) Building genuine relationships with investors
(53:40) Difficulties in startups
(57:37) Negotiating terms on deals
FOLLOW Zach: https://twitter.com/zachcoelius
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
Emily Melton joins Molly to discuss her early days in venture and what she learned while working at DFJ (1:30). Then, they talk about the barriers that healthcare imposes on entrepreneurship (17:22), building a diverse culture within venture capital (29:53), market distortions, and how to optimize for a down market (38:42).
(0:00) Molly kicks off the show
(1:30) Getting started in Venture Capital
(8:12) LinkedIn Jobs - Go to https://linkedIn.com/angel and post your first job for free
(9:38) Learnings from working at DFJ
(17:22) Healthcare being a barrier to entrepreneurship
(20:11) Prenuvo - Get $300 off at http://prenuvo.com/twist
(21:41) Threshold Ventures’ fund mechanics
(26:15) Investing in Tia: Healthcare solutions for woman
(29:53) Building culture
(37:45) Pilot - Get 20% off the first 6 months at https://pilot.com/twist
(38:42) Optimizing for a down market
(52:13) What’s next?
FOLLOW Emily: https://twitter.com/emelton
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FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
Jason is BACK with Molly to break down the news! They cover Sequoia leaving Citizen's board after passing on a "pay to play" round (5:46), two major companies reportedly going public in 2023: Instacart and ARM (27:11), and the recent turmoil at Dapper Labs (50:44).
(0:00) J+M tee up today's news show!
(2:25) Jason's back!
(5:46) Sequoia leaves the board of Citizen
(14:21) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(15:51) How investors make the decision to pass on a "pay to play" round
(25:41) Contra - Get $500 off your first hire at https://contra.com/twist
(27:11) IPO window starts to open, Instacart prepares for IPO after big Q4
(35:42) Revelo - Get 20% off the first 3 months by mentioning TWIST at https://revelo.io/twist
(37:09) ARM prepares for IPO, reasons for CHIPS Act speed
(50:44) Chaos at Dapper Labs: reckless spending, securities lawsuit
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
Subscribe to our YouTube to watch all full episodes:
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Molly starts the show with Producer Rachel, covering Apple blocking an email app with an AI update (7:17), TikTok's latest restriction for users under 18 (14:05), and Salesforce Q4 earnings results. Then, they break down the startup immi, an instant ramen company (26:55). To end the show, Molly talks to Foodini founder and CEO Dylan McDonnell (35:10), and Rachel talks to Michael Tan, author of The Death of Uncertainty (59:49).
0:00 Molly Kicks off the show
1:55 Apple blocks app update for having generative AI capabilities
7:17 Could Apple's guard on the App Store create a headwind for the industry?
9:40 Should Apple be in charge of standard content filtering around AI on their platform
11:43 Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
12:48 How did TikTok approach being on the Apple App Store?
14:05 TikTok is setting 1-hour time limits for users under 18
16:11 If Apple doesn't impose safety limits, who will?
17:55 Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
19:01 Salesforce stock drop and Q4 earnings results
24:34 Molly's predictions for Salesforce
26:55 Startup of the day: immi, an instant ramen company, is taking over grocery stores by storm
32:15 Orgspace - Get $2000 in credits at http://orgspace.io/twist
35:10 Foodini founder and CEO Dylan McDonnell on how he plans on making eating out safer for those with diet restrictions
59:49 Okboomer with Michael Tan, author of The Death of Uncertainty
FOLLOW Dylan McDonnell: https://twitter.com/dylnmcdonnell
FOLLOW Michael Tan: https://twitter.com/TheManMikeTan
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FOLLOW Rachel: https://twitter.com/_rachelbraun
Vinny and Sunny joined Molly on another segment of Crypto Roundtable! Highlights included how Twitter could have integrated crypto (2:02), the benefits and controversy of a national ID system (23:00), and Spotify's NFT experiment.
(0:00) Molly kicks off the show
(2:02) The future of Twitter payments
(12:16) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(14:21) What does an ideal Twitter identity system look like?
(21:16) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(23:00) The benefits and controversy of a national ID system
(32:20) Predictions about the latest Yuga drop
(35:41) Contra - Get $500 off your first hire at https://contra.com/twist
(41:54) Vinny breaks down the future of Coinbase and its active users
(48:07) Molly sees the connection between K-Pop and crypto
Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp
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FOLLOW Sunny: https://twitter.com/sundeep
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FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
Maha Ibrahim of Canaan joins Molly to discuss her early days in VC (1:38), managing distributions and exiting at the right time (20:36), the clean tech bubble, being a generalist/specialist, diversity, and more (37:42).
(0:00) Molly kicks off the show
(1:38) Maha’s first years in venture
(11:18) LinkedIn Jobs - Go to https://linkedIn.com/angel and post your first job for free.
(12:43) Investing in the early 2000s and Canaan’s strategy
(19:12) Cast.ai - Get a free cloud cost audit with a personal consultation at https://cast.ai/twist
(20:36) Exiting at the right time and distributing earnings
(30:00) Learning from a downturn
(34:58) The mismatch between VCs to outlier startups
(36:11) Prenuvo - Get $300 off at http://prenuvo.com/twist
(37:42) The climate tech bubble
(40:14) Generalists vs. specialists
(42:16) Responding to cycles and signs of good timing
(48:53) Structuring a generational off-ramp
(51:39) All Raise
(55:30) What does the future hold?
FOLLOW Maha: https://twitter.com/mahaibrahim
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
Neeva CEO Sridhar Ramaswamy joins Molly to talk all things search and AI chatbots, including Neeva’s technology and the difficulty of building a search engine (1:41), Neeva’s consumer focus and business model (20:00), and the search-to-answer revolution (41:31).
(0:00) Molly kicks off the show
(1:41) Neeva’s Purpose
(5:06) The technological underpinning of Neeva
(8:00) The hurdles building Neeva
(10:26) Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub - Apply in 5 minutes for six figures in discounts at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
(11:53) The problems search aims to solve
(18:31) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(20:00) Why choose Neeva
(24:01) Neeva’s business model
(29:18) Moving from search to answers + citing sources
(35:53) The ad supported publishing ecosystem
(37:58) Pilot - Get 20% off the first 6 months at https://pilot.com/twist
(39:13) Leaving Google
(41:31) The search to answers revolution
(44:34) Compensating publishers and dealing with content moderation
(48:51) Open loop vs. Closed loop
(54:29) Neeva copycats
FOLLOW Sridhar: https://twitter.com/ramaswmysridhar
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
**The Friday variety show is back! Jason kicks it off by interviewing WallStreetBets founder Jaime Rogozinski, who's currently suing Reddit (2:08). Then, Molly is joined by Hyper CEO Andrew Hart to discuss the augmented reality market and Hyper's store-mapping technology (30:16). Producer Rachel wraps the show with content creator Humphrey Yang breaking down his creative process, what he considers valuable metrics, and so much more (53:40).
(0:00) Molly kicks off the show**
(2:08) WSB milestones and arbitrage
(12:07) Contra - Get $500 off your first hire at https://contra.com/twist
(13:36) How Reddit works + the WSB controversy
(23:42) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(24:45) Jaime’s ideal solution
(30:16) Andrew Hart of Hyper
(33:57) Creating the ultimate user experience
(39:19) Retreat - head to http://planretreat.com/twistto help you plan the offsite your team deserves!
(40:43) Mapping store and onboarding customers
(45:55) Hyper’s development and future opportunities
**(53:40) Ok Boomer with Humphrey Yang
FOLLOW Jaime: https://twitter.com/wallstreetbets**
FOLLOW Andrew: https://twitter.com/AndrewHartAR
FOLLOW Humphrey: https://twitter.com/Humphreytalks
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FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
Sophia Amoruso, Founder and GP at Trust Fund, joins Jason to discuss her angel investments (1:23), raising a fund publicly (5:54), and the creative process (12:14). Then, they discuss portfolio construction and putting past identities to bed (27:04).
(0:00) Molly kicks off the show
(1:23) Previous angel investing experience
(5:54) Why Sophia is raising a public fund
(10:45) Linode - Apply to Linode's Rise program for up to six figures in discounts at https://linode.com/twist
(12:14) Branding and the creative process
(20:55) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(22:25) What stage of investing is Sophia going after
(27:04) Portfolio construction
(37:16) Brilliant.org - Go to http://brilliant.org/twist to start your 30-day free trial today and get 20% off your annual premium plan
(38:44) Pro rata rights
(46:56) Putting past identities to bed
(1:01:18) Fund cycles
(1:05:17) Investing in founders or investing in ideas & more
FOLLOW Sophia: https://twitter.com/sophiaamoruso
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
Jason is joined by Mark Suster of Upfront Ventures to cover raising capital in the early 2000s (1:22), aligning board members (21:19), the three variables VCs need to bet on (40:51), and so much more!
(0:00) Molly kicks off the show
(1:22) A recap of the previous 3 market cycles
(5:23) The hurdles founders will face starting a company in 2023
(6:55) Raising capital in the early 2000s
(9:15) LinkedIn Jobs - Go to https://linkedIn.com/angel and post your first job for free.
(10:37) Upfront’s strategy and changes to the market
(15:35) Misalignment of investors
(19:48) Prenuvo - Get $300 off a full-body MRI scan at https://prenuvo.com/twist
(21:19) Aligning of board members
(29:13) Setting reality as an investor/board member
(33:40) Cutting Burn & Mark’s decision framework
(39:23) Orgspace - Get $2000 of credits on pro plans with a 30-day free trial at https://orgspace.io/twist
(40:51) The 3 variables VCs need to bet on
(48:28) The power law and mission-aligned founders
(52:13) Feed the family money
(58:33) Company killers + Investing in lines not dots
FOLLOW Mark: https://twitter.com/msuster
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
Precision Neuroscience’s Co-Founder and Chief Science Officer joins Molly to discuss how the brain communicates with the body (7:08) and the breakthroughs that allowed companies like Precision to exist. (12:52) Then, they discuss Precision’s founding principles, the process of getting FDA approval for its neural interface, and much more. (28:55)
(0:00) Molly kicks off the show
(1:27) Dr. Rapoport’s origin story
(7:08) How the brain communicates with the body
(11:22) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(12:52) Breakthroughs in neuroscience
(22:37) Contra - a commission-free marketplace for freelancers and independent creators. Get $500 off your first hire at https://contra.com/twist
(24:06) The tension between public and private institutions
(28:55) The founding principles of Precision Neuroscience
(33:21) The Layer 7 interface and preparing for FDA approval
(40:39) LMNT - Get a free sample pack with any purchase at https://DrinkLMNT.com/TWIST
(42:07) Minimizing risk
(45:25) Interfacing with different areas of the brain
(47:06) Medical infrastructure and the business model of med-tech
CHECK OUT Precision Neuroscience: https://precisionneuro.io
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
First up, J+M break down Meta taking a note from Twitter with a $12 paid tier and how it can have a material impact on revenue. (12:05) Then, they cover the problems with Bing's new chatbot (32:13) before wrapping on Stripe potentially missing its window (46:14) and Meta copying a Telegram feature! (1:00:30)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's topics!
(2:22) Proper PTO operating standards, what's in store for the next few weeks on TWiST!
(10:31) MasterClass - Get 15% off an annual membership at https://masterclass.com/startups
(12:05) Zuck announces Meta Verified, a $12/month paid service for Facebook/Instagram and WhatsApp
(18:56) How Meta's new product can have a material impact on revenue
(21:49) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(22:47) What enticing features major social platforms can add to get more paid users
(30:42) Contra - Get $500 off your first hire at https://contra.com/twist
(32:13) Bing's new chatbot has already been toned down by Microsoft for responding with a style the company did not intend
(46:14) Stripe's $4B tax bill and further valuation cuts: did the highest-flying startup fumble the bag?
(1:00:30) Meta also copied Telegram's broadcast channels feature, which Zuck used to announce Meta's new paid tier!
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
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Vinny and Sunny join Jason and Molly for another crypto roundtable discussing the federal government’s crackdown on crypto. (1:39) They define what staking is (10:13), and Jason addresses his Twitter Exchange with Coinbase founder and CEO Brian Armstrong. (32:20) Then Producer Rachel is joined by Prince Ghosh of Factored Quality for another edition of Ok Boomer. (1:06:45)
(0:00) Molly kicks off the show
(1:39) Crypto crackdown + the roles of the SEC and CFTC
(8:46) Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub - Apply in 5 minutes for six figures in discounts at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
(10:13) Definitions of “staking”
(21:30) Merge - Integrate up to 5 customers for free today at https://merge.dev/twist
(23:00) Using Web 3.0 for crowdsource capital
(32:20) Brian Armstrong and Jason’s exchange + Challenges of crypto exchanges
(40:25) Pilot.com. - Go to https://pilot.com/twist for 20% off your first 6 months of Pilot Core.
(41:54) Regulating stablecoins
(57:41)$100M New Jersey Deli + Jason’s grand plan for TikTok
(1:06:45) Ok Boomer with Prince Ghosh of Factored Quality
FOLLOW Vinny: https://twitter.com/vinnylingham
FOLLOW Sunny: https://twitter.com/sundeep
FOLLOW Prince: https://twitter.com/princeghosh97
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FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
Deven Parekh of Insight Partners joins Jason to discuss navigating markets during the dot com era and the pandemic. (1:50) Then they discuss "venture tourists" and cleaning up cap tables before wrapping up with a look back at some of Deven's winning investments. (20:04)
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(1:50) Experiencing the dot com burst
(10:14) LinkedIn Jobs - Go to https://linkedIn.com/angel and post your first job for free.
(11:36) Comparing Web 3.0 and the dot com era + navigating the markets during the pandemic
(18:40) Cast.ai - Get a free cloud cost audit with a personal consultation at https://cast.ai/twist
(20:04) Venture Tourists
(29:30) Unfavorable preference stacks
(37:07) Acquire.com - Sign up for FREE at https://try.acquire.com/twist
(38:32) Cleaning a cap table
(47:57) Looking back at Deven’s investments
FOLLOW Deven: https://twitter.com/djparekh
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
Molly is joined by Rachel as they discuss the news that some companies are selling data about their mental health patients. (1:33) Then they discuss how Bing’s AI chatbot was presenting false information during its reveal last week. (11:57) To wrap, Tom Loverro joins Jason to talk about his viral tweet thread about a “mass extinction event coming for early & mid-stage companies”. (24:36)
(0:00) Molly and Rachel kick off the show
(1:33) America’s mental health data is being sold
(10:28) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(11:57) Bing dodges $100B bullet
(20:23) House of Macadamias - Get 20% off at https://houseofmacadamias.com/twist by using code TWIST20
(21:51) Molly and Rachel’s AI predictions
(24:36) IVP’s Tom Loverro joins Jason
(39:32) Fitbod - Get 25% off at https://fitbod.me/twist
(40:42) Tom’s prescriptions for founders
FOLLOW Tom: https://twitter.com/tomloverro
FOLLOW Rachel: https://twitter.com/_rachelbraun
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FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
**Molly and Jason kick off the show catching up after the weekend, discussing the Super Bowl and the spy balloons that the US airforce has shot down. (1:30) Then they have a very interesting conversation about bypassing ChatGPT’s guardrails and content moderation. (23:29)
(0:00) M+J kick off the show**
(1:30) Super Bowl 57
(8:33) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(9:58) UFOs in American airspace
(22:26) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(23:29) ChatGPT’s alter ego DAN + content filter transparency
(37:17) Revelo - Get 20% off the first 3 months by mentioning TWIST at https://revelo.com/twist
(38:44) Programming LLMs and neural networks
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
Four-cycle investor and Redpoint Ventures Co-Founder Geoff Yang joins to discuss his early years in VC (1:45), what it takes for a founder to survive in a down market (11:47), what makes CEOs like Frank Slootman and David Zaslav stand out, and more! (43:35)
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(1:45) Geoff Yang’s experience cracking into VC
(10:26) LinkedIn Jobs - Go to https://linkedIn.com/angel and post your first job for free.
(11:47) Surviving and thriving in a down market
(22:35) First Republic Bank - Discover what a long-term financial relationship can do for you. Visit https://firstrepublic.com today to learn more.
(23:29) Being flexible and understanding risk as an entrepreneur
(30:00) Accomplishing the most with the least
(34:05) ProsperStack - Take 10% off your subscription by mentioning TWIST at https://prosperstack.com/twist
(35:17) Geoff’s favorite investments
(43:35) Working with David Zaslav
(50:57) What’s next for Geoff + Generative AI
FOLLOW Geoff: https://twitter.com/geoff_yang
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Joe Gebbia joins Jason to discuss the early days of Airbnb, gaining traction, persevering through the “no’s,” and functional design. (2:09) They also discuss gaining customer trust and Airbnb’s incredible COVID turnaround. (21:17) Joe wraps the show by breaking down his new venture, Samara. (45:05)
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(2:09) Airbnb’s first sign of traction
(9:05) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(10:04) Persevering through the “no’s,” and functional design
(19:48) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(21:17) Gaining customer trust
(30:46) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(32:17) Airbnb’s incredible COVID turnaround
(45:05) Joe’s new startup Samara
Check out: https://www.samara.com/backyard
FOLLOW Joe: https://twitter.com/jgebbia
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
Molly and Jason discuss Google’s announcing plans to roll out its ChatGPT competitor, called Bard, in the coming weeks. (1:10) Then, they discuss Adam Neumann’s explanation of Flow’s business before wrapping up with a SOTD, Jobber. (18:59)
(0:00) M+J kick off the show
(1:10) Breaking down Google’s announcement of Bard
(9:29) Coda - Startups can get $1000 credit by visiting https://coda.io/twist
(11:00) Neeva’s approach to search
(17:33) Linode - Apply to Linode's Rise program for up to six figures in discounts at https://linode.com/twist
(18:59) An update on Adam Neumann’s Flow
(36:31) Meowtel - Save $25 on your first booking with code TWIST25 at https://meowtel.com/
(37:53) SOTD: Jobber raises $100M
(46:17) Microsoft officially announces the integration of ChatGPT into Bing
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FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
Molly breaks down Google’s $300M investment in Anthropic and how this deal compares to Microsoft’s investment in OpenAI. (2:00) Then, she dives deep into a former Google executive’s paid search engine and ShiftMed raising $200M to solve the nursing shortage. She wraps the show with an interview featuring the CEO of dating app So Syncd, Jessica Alderson. (13:44)
(0:00) Molly kicks off the show
(2:00) Google invests $300M in Anthropic
(12:15) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(13:44) Neeva’s new approach to search
(21:33) Acquire.com - Sign up for FREE at https://try.acquire.com/twist
(22:58) AI’s data problem
(28:27) ShiftMed raises $200M
(33:18) LMNT - Get a free sample pack with any purchase at https://drinklmnt.com/twist
(34:45) Seed/Series A Interview: Jessica Alderson, CEO of So Syncd
FOLLOW Jessica: https://twitter.com/jesssalderson
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Molly is off for the day; Producer Rachel joins Jason to break down Google, Amazon and Apple’s latest earnings report. (1:29) Then LA26 graduate Perrin Davidson, CEO of EATERCLUB, joins Molly. (46:05) Lastly, we end the week with another edition of Ok Boomer, where Rachel interviews Eerika Savolainen, the CEO of Slush. (1:02:16)
(0:00) Jason and Rachel kick off the show
(1:29) Google earnings
(11:19) MasterClass - Get 15% off an annual membership at https://masterclass.com/startups
(12:44) Amazon earnings
(23:28) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(23:30) Apple earnings
(33:36) Fitbod - Get 25% off at https://fitbod.me/twist
(34:36) The US jobs report
(46:05) LA26 Founder: Perrin Davidson of EATERCLUB
(1:02:16) Ok Boomer with Eerika Savolainen, the CEO of Slush
FOLLOW Perrin: https://twitter.com/LAeats
FOLLOW Eerika: https://twitter.com/EerikaSav
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FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
Jason and Molly kick off the show by discussing Meta’s Q4 earnings and the news that the Fed is raising rates by only 25 basis points (3:06), which leads to a discussion on unemployment, automation, and generative AI updates. (11:24) Then, Lon Harris joins to discuss Oscar nominations, Spotify earnings, “peak podcasting,” and more. (37:51)
(0:00) M+J kick off the show
(3:06) Meta Earnings
(7:56) The Fed raises rates by 25bps
(9:57) House of Macadamias - Get 20% off at https://houseofmacadamias.com/twist by using code TWIST20
(11:24) Unemployment and Automation
(21:59) Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub - Apply in 5 minutes for six figures in discounts at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
(23:30) ChatGPT hits 100M MAUs + Google’s Apprentice Bard
(36:46) Anyplace - Get $250 off your booking with the code TWIST250 at https://www.anyplace.com/twist
(37:51) Oscar Nominations with Lon Harris
(44:06) Spotify earnings
(55:35) The Last of Us is another hit for HBO
(1:00:58) James Gunn reveals chapter one of the DC Universe
FOLLOW Lon: https://twitter.com/lons
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Jason is joined by FirstMark Capital’s Rick Heitzmann, who started his investment career in 1999. They discuss “sobering up” after the 14-year bull run (1:55), Airbnb’s response to the downturn (7:38), how senior leaders must act as shock absorbers for their founders (26:30), and more!
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(1:55) Rick’s experience of the “Speculative Asset Bubble”
(7:38) Airbnb’s reaction to the downturn
(11:33) LinkedIn Jobs - Go to https://linkedIn.com/angel and post your first job for free
(12:58) Rick’s memory of the Dot Com bubble
(19:39) Advice for founders in a downturn
(22:27) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(23:29) How CAC and LTV have changed
(26:30) The emotional state of Founders and keeping them focused
(35:09) Term sheets in the Dot Com era and today
(40:06) Letterhead - get 50% off their first year at tryletterhead.com/twist
(41:21) Different forms of exits + Key attributes in founders
FOLLOW Rick: https://twitter.com/rick
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FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
Jason and Molly kick off the show with a quick third-rail story about Area 51. (1:56) They then cover Instagram co-founders Mike Krieger and Kevin Systrom’s new startup, Artifact. (10:44) Finally, Gabi Lewis of Magic Spoon joins Molly for an awesome interview about their latest raise, launching in big box stores and more. (41:56)
(0:00) Molly Kicks off the show
(1:56) Conspiracy Theories with Molly and Jason
(9:37) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(10:44) Mike Krieger and Kevin Systrom’s new venture: Artifact
(20:16) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(21:19) Monetizing news aggregators + content moderation
(40:42) Letterhead - get 50% off their first year at tryletterhead.com/twist
(41:56) Gabi Lewis of Magic Spoon joins Molly
(1:13:51) Jay Trades, immigration and TikTok ideas
FOLLOW Gabi: https://www.instagram.com/gababoutgabi
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Jason and Molly kick off the week with a generative ai update! (5:00) Then, they cover Mr. Beast’s latest video and “stunt culture” (35:21), some more third-rail topics (49:40), and Billy McFarland being back in the news! (59:50)
(0:00) M+J kick off the show
(2:10) Apply to Founder University 2-Day Workshop at https://intensive.founder.university/
(5:00) Anthropic raises at a $5B valuation
(9:31) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(11:01) More on Anthropic
(18:01) Notion - Sign up for FREE at https://notion.com/jason
(19:21) Semafor reports OpenAI has contracted 1000 developers
(27:06) Baidu is developing their own AI Chatbot
(33:53) CAST AI - get a FREE cloud cost audit AND a personal consultation at cast.ai/twist
(35:21) MrBeast’s latest video + Stunt culture
(49:40) Third-rail topics
(59:50) Billy McFarland is back in the news
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Please take our 90-second audience survey for a chance to win a $50 amazon gift card at www.thisweekinstartups.com/survey
Molly and Jason chop it up about New York Attorney General Letitia James probing into MSG's alleged use of facial recognition to identify and target specific patrons (1:46). This segues into a great discussion about Meta's $10M deal with BuzzFeed and The Creator Economy as a whole (21:41). We cap off the week with two great interviews, one with LA26 graduate Nevsah Karamehmet of Breath Hub (36:17) and another with Brett Bauman, the creator of PlaylistAI (48:09).
(0:00) M+J kick off the show
(1:46) WLITF WTF: Facial recognition software at MSG
(8:33) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(10:03) More on the NYAG case regarding MSG's facial recognition software
(20:11) Linode - Apply to Linode's Rise program for up to six figures in discounts at https://linode.com/twist
(21:41) BuzzFeed's lucrative deal with Meta + Revenue share with creators
(35:07) Crowdbotics - Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at crowdbotics.com/twist
(36:17) LA26 Founder: Nevsah Karamehmet of Breath Hub
(48:09) Ok Boomer with Brett Bauman
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Please take our 90-second audience survey for a chance to win a $50 amazon gift card at www.thisweekinstartups.com/survey
Vinny and Sunny are back for our first crypto-roundtable of 2023. Vinny breaks down the macroeconomic variables affecting Bitcoin’s price (1:39), plus they all predict whether Bitcoin will hit $30K or $16 first (11:43) (This is not financial advice). They delve into the ongoing controversy involving DCG, Gemini and Genesis (26:54), as well as the news that the SEC has charged both Gemini and Genesis with offering and selling unregistered securities (35:12). We wrap up the show with a great discussion about Porsche’s failed NFT drop and how brands should approach entering Web 3.0 (44:38).
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(1:39) Vinny’s macroeconomic breakdown
(10:18) Acquire.com - Sign up for FREE at https://try.acquire.com/twist
(11:43) Bitcoin’s price action + will it hit $30k or $16K
(17:35) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(18:59) Gluttony and the lack of consumer savings
(26:54) DCG, Genesis and Gemini controversy
(33:40) Fitbod - Get 25% off at https://fitbod.me/twist
(35:12) The SEC has charged Gemini and Genesis for selling unregistered securities
(44:38) Porsche’s NFT drop
FOLLOW Vinny: https://twitter.com/VinnyLingham
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Jason sits down with Bryan Roberts of Venrock for another episode of Angel Season 7! They discuss Bryan’s first bets (2:22) and his perception of the dot com bubble. (14:38) The two also dive into topics like creating optionality as a startup (21:24), bad habits in VC (28:49) and Theranos. (36:18) To wrap the show, Bryan and Jason discuss disagreeing with founders (39:07) and the psychology of placing bets! (44:33)
(0:00) Jason kicks off the show
(2:22) Bryan’s first investment: Illumina
(8:52) LinkedIn Jobs - Go to http://linkedin.com/angel and post your first job for free
(10:16) Bryan’s second investment: Athena Health
(14:38) Bryan’s experience during the dot-com bubble
(19:54) Merge - Get started by integrating up to 5 linked accounts for free today at merge.dev/twist
(21:24) Creating optionality in a startup
(25:30) Understanding your leaders
(28:49) Bad habits in venture
(34:55) Velocity Growth - Get $500 off your first growth audit or monthly package now with promo code TWIST at velocitygrowth.com/twist
(36:18) Bryan’s thoughts on Theranos
(39:07) Diligence and disagreements with founders
(44:33) The psychology of placing bets + advice for founders
FOLLOW Bryan: https://twitter.com/brobertsvc
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FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
Molly goes solo today to cover the DOJ joining eight states to file an anti-trust lawsuit against Google (2:04) before covering Ticketmaster taking the stand in a Senate hearing today. (15:37) Producer Rachel then joins to discuss the latest on user-friendly ticket competitors.(15:37) Then, Molly is joined by two different LA26 founders: Rhian Beutler of Govalo (32:47) and Daniel Sakhai of HeyHire! (44:44)
(0:00) Molly kicks off the show
(2:04) the DOJ’s lawsuit with Google
(9:16) AgeTech Collaborative - Find out more and apply at https://agetechcollaborative.org/twist
(10:51) Google and Microsoft’s prior lawsuits with the DOJ
(15:37) Ticketmaster’s senate hearing
(21:30) AgeTech Collaborative - Find out more and apply at https://agetechcollaborative.org/twist
(23:06) Rachel joins Molly to discuss the latest on user-friendly ticket competitors
(31:18) Nutrisense - Use code TWIST and get $30 off at nutrisense.io/twist
(32:47) Rhian Beutler of Govalo joins Molly
(44:44) Daniel Sakhai of HeyHire joins Molly
FOLLOW Rhian: https://twitter.com/rhiankatie
FOLLOW Daniel: https://www.heyhire.com/
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FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
Join Molly and Jason as they react to TikToks posted by former Google employees who have recently been let go. They discuss why Google is letting people go despite their massive profits (8:54). They also explore Open AI and Microsoft's codified partnership (38:39) and the report from the WSJ that activist investor Elliot Management has invested billions into Salesforce (45:06). To end the show, we have another great edition of WLITF featuring NVIDIA's new AI-generated eye contact feature (49:16).
(0:00) M+J kick off the show
(2:35) Jason is still on the mend + vaccine talk
(7:46) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(8:54) The difference between Meta, Amazon and Google's layoffs + Employee reaction to getting laid off
(18:52) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(20:16) Why Google is doing layoffs + more employee reactions
(37:05) Meowtel - Book a local and insured sitter on the #1 cat sitting app. Save $25 on your first booking with code TWIST25
(38:29) OpenAI codified its deal with Microsoft
(45:06) Elliot Management invests billions in Salesforce
(49:16) WLITF: NVIDIA's insane update
This Week in Startups 90-second survey - Enter for a chance to win a $50 amazon gift card at www.thisweekinstartups.com/survey
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Molly and Jason tackle Netflix's stellar fourth-quarter earnings and the news that Reed Hastings is stepping down as CEO. (1:55) Plus, they delve into Google's announcement to lay off 6% of its workforce (17:00), and the former MySpace founders raised a $32M Seed round for their new gaming startup PLAI. (28:55) Lastly, Producer Rachel is back with another segment of Ok Boomer with Mike O'Brien! (36:47)
(0:00) M+J kick off the show
(1:55) Netflix earnings + Reed Hastings steps down as CEO
(9:29) Crowdbotics - Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at crowdbotics.com/twist
(9:37) Netflix's future
(17:00) Google to layoff 6% of their staff
(23:37) Mixpanel - Apply for $50K in credits at https://mixpanel.com/startups
(20:50) Will Apple do a RIF?
(28:55) Former MySpace founders raise $32M for their new startup PLAI
(33:53) This Week in Startups 90-second survey - Enter for a chance to win a $50 amazon gift card at www.thisweekinstartups.com/survey
(35:19) House of Macadamias - Get 20% off at https://houseofmacadamias.com/twist by using code TWIST20
(36:47) Ok Boomer with Mike O'Brien
Bloomberg Article: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/newsletters/2023-01-20/reed-hastings-retires-as-netflix-ceo-with-a-long-list-of-wins
FOLLOW Mike: https://twitter.com/mikeobrienn
FOLLOW Rachel: https://twitter.com/_rachelbraun
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Molly and Jason kick off the show by discussing the concept of 'quiet hiring' (1:53) and the SEC's proposed rules making it easier for LPs to sue VCs (9:37). They also cover Semafor's buyback of Sam Bankman-Fried's $10M investment (20:50). And Lon Harris is back to discuss the new box office hit M3GAN (31:00) and the premiere of The Last of Us (45:45).
(0:00) Molly kicks off the show
(1:53) Jargon Watch: What is “quiet hiring”?
(8:29) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(9:37) SEC proposes new rules making it easier for LPs to sue VCs
(19:21) Supergut - Get 30% off with code TWIST at https://supergut.com
(20:50) Semafor to buy back SBF’s $10M investment
(29:44) Formulate - Get 25% off at formulate.co/twist
(31:00) Blumhouse and Atomic Monster’s potential merger + M3GAN’s marketing campaign
(45:45) The Last of Us Premiere + more on video game adaptations
FOLLOW Lon: https://linktr.ee/lons
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
(0:00) Jason Kicks off the show
(2:49) Brad Feld, Co-founder of Foundry, talks about starting out in investing
(13:30) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/angel
(14:56) Brad’s thesis for whom he’ll get in the “trenches” with
(20:48) MasterClass - Get 15% off an annual membership at https://masterclass.com/startups
(22:22) Fighting to the end + Investing through the dot-com bubble
(38:13) Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub - Apply in 5 minutes, no funding required, sign up at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
(39:43) Surviving the GFC
(44:23) Brad’s perspective on the investor/CEO dynamic + being a leader in a down market
(1:00:02) Reflecting on the speculative asset bubble
(1:16:44) Looking forward into 2023
FOLLOW Brad: https://linktr.ee/bfeld
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FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
First up, Molly and Jason cover a bunch of news happening in the world of AI, Getty Images is preparing to sue Stable Diffusion creator Stability AI (8:47), Meta is partnering with Shutterstock to train its AI models, and Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella announced the company will integrate OpenAI’s software into Azure - it’s cloud computing platform - and ALL it’s other products. (36:07) Then, we cover two new sustainability startups! Mill is a company started by former Nest co-founders making an automated compostability trash can. (55:12) And Sollum is building AI-enabled LED lighting solutions for indoor farming. (1:06:35)
(0:00) M+J kick off the show.
(2:47) Molly and Jason catch up after their long weekend
(7:23) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(8:47) Getty Images prepares a lawsuit against Stability AI
(12:54) Data and data integrity
(17:55) AgeTech Collaborative - Find out more and apply at https://agetechcollaborative.org/twist
(19:30) The similarities between AI and the music industry
(34:31) AgeTech Collaborative - Find out more and apply at https://agetechcollaborative.org/twist
(36:07) Microsoft announces that they will integrate AI into all their products + more on round-tripping
(49:50) Blockchain versus AI
(55:12) SOTD: Mill
(1:06:35) SOTD: Sollum Technologies
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
Molly and Jason dive deep into the recent news of Tim Cook, the CEO of Apple, taking a $50 million pay cut. They discuss this move's implications and whether CEOs are worth their large compensation packages. (1:24) Andrew Gazdecki, CEO of Acquire.com, joins Jason for a fun interview discussing Acquire.com's rebrand and the acquisition marketplace. (24:47)
(0:00) Molly kicks off the show
(1:24) CEO of Apple, Tim Cook takes a $50M pay cut
(11:51) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(13:21) Are CEOs worth their compensation packages?
(23:18) Notion - Sign up for FREE at https://notion.com/jason
(24:47) Andrew Gazdecki of Acquire.com joins Jason
(40:45) Formulate - Get 25% off at formulate.co/twist
(42:02) Serial sellers, Acquire.com’s growth and M&As
FOLLOW Andrew: https://twitter.com/agazdecki
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FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
Molly and Jason kick off the show about social taboo topics and getting to the bottom of Covid-19.(2:22) Following the two discuss Molly attending Strictly VC, DeepMind’s new chatbot Sparrow and OpenAI’s end game. (15:43) Then Molly interviews LAUNCH Accelerator founder United by Zero CEO and Founder Lex Kiefhaber (52:34). Then we cap off the episode with another great edition of Ok Boomer featuring Juliet Meskers, co-founder and CEO of MOTH (1:08:45)
(0:00) M+J kick off the show
(2:22) Covid-19 and cultural taboo topics
(10:32) Linode - Apply to Linode's Rise program for up to six figures in discounts at https://linode.com/twist
(12:01) Getting to the bottom of Covid-19
(15:43) Molly attended Strictly VC to hear Sam Altman speak about AI
(19:33) Crowdbotics - Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at crowdbotics.com/twist
(21:06) The difference between creating and packaging AI
(28:42) DeepMind’s chatbot Sparrow + AI infringing on intellectual property
(37:18) Acquire.com - Sign up for FREE at https://try.acquire.com/twist
(38:49) What is OpenAI’s end game?
(52:34) Molly interviews LAUNCH Accelerator founder United by Zero CEO and Founder Lex Kiefhaber
(1:08:45) Ok Boomer featuring Juliet Meskers, co-founder and CEO of MOTH
FOLLOW Lex: https://mobile.twitter.com/_united_by_zero
FOLLOW Juliette: https://mobile.twitter.com/mothhealth
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FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
Molly and Jason chop it up about Jason's latest Jay Trades: Apple, Amazon and Disney. (2:21) Then they briefly discuss SBF's new Substack. (14:42) To wrap up the show, Lon joins us for this week's edition of This Week in Streaming to talk about award season and Netflix's content strategy. (21:14)
(0:00) M+J kick off the show
(2:21) Jason explains why he placed a bet on Apple
(8:12) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(9:20) Molly and Jason discuss his two other Jay Trades, Amazon and Disney
(14:42) SBF's Substack
(19:42) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(21:14) Lon joins to discuss award season with Molly and Jason
(35:44) Fitbod - Get 25% off at https://fitbod.me/twist
(37:17) Netflix's content strategy is like a “gourmet cheeseburger”
(50:36) Award season continued
FOLLOW Lon: https://linktr.ee/lons
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
First up, J+M cover the problems at Slack and Salesforce (3:00), before breaking down the anti-competitive issues with bundling software to harm competitors. (13:34) Then, they talk about the comeuppance from "A-players" regarding the lack of efficiency in big tech (26:35), a 10-month jail sentence for crypto inside trading (39:52), and DoNotPay's AI-based robo-lawyer taking a case! (51:14)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's topics!
(3:00) Breaking down the recent rift between Slack and Salesforce
(12:00) AgeTech Collaborative - Find out more and apply at https://agetechcollaborative.org/twist
(13:34) Issues with bundling, did Salesforce overpay for Slack?
(25:00) AgeTech Collaborative - Find out more and apply at https://agetechcollaborative.org/twist
(26:35) Lack of efficiency as a lightning rod at big tech companies, management styles
(38:22) Nutrisense - Use code TWIST and get $30 off at nutrisense.io/twist
(39:52) The brother of a former Coinbase PM was sentenced to 10 months in prison for using tips from his brother to make $900K
(51:14) DoNotPay's robo-lawyer will be used in a court case, OpenAI will pilot a paid version of ChatGPT
(1:06:51) Jason ends with an emotional video from Ke Huy Quan's Golden Globes acceptance speech
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
Subscribe to our YouTube to watch all full episodes:
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Molly and Jason discuss the news that Coinbase is doing another 20% RIF. (6:50) Then they discuss the announcement that Microsoft is investing $10B into OpenAI with some pretty favourable terms. (27:19) After, Molly and Jason chat about Make Sunsets’ plan to cool the planet and Enpal, a German solar panel company raising money at a $2.4B valuation. (46:56) Then we wrap with this year’s first edition of TWiCS featuring Mike O’Kronley, CEO of Ascend Elements. (1:00:56)
(0:00) M+J kick off the show
(2:10) Atmospheric rivers and the chaos in California
(6:50) Coinbase does another 20% RIF
(11:56) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(13:03) The future of employment in tech
(21:50) Mixpanel - Apply for $50K in credits at https://mixpanel.com/startups
(23:16) The perfect amount of founders
(27:19) Microsoft is invests $10B into OpenAI
(32:46) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(34:10) OpenAI going from a non-profit to a for-profit + What is roundtripping?
(46:56) Make Sunsets raises $750K to do what?!
(53:05) Enpal raises at a $2.4B valuation
(1:00:56) TWiCS: Mike O’Kronley of Ascend Elements
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
Back from the weekend! First up, J+M catch up and cover a very strange economic situation. (2:07) Then, the duo covers NoMa, the world's most famous restaurant, shutting its doors due to an unsustainable business model (24:46), before going deep on generative AI news and demoing OpenAI's ChatGPT iOS app! (49:54)
(0:00) J+M intro today's show!
(2:07) Weekend catchup! Jason's chainsaw adventure
(12:29) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(14:04) Twitter view counts being a revealing engagement metric, Jeremy Renner's accident, "the weirdest economy ever"
(23:17) House of Macadamias - Get 20% off at https://houseofmacadamias.com/twist by using code TWIST20
(24:46) Noma, the world's best restaurant, to shut down due to an unsustainable business model
(37:43) Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub - Apply in 5 minutes, no funding required, sign up at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
(39:12) Massive wealth transfer upcoming and how that impacts the labor market, Kauffman Fellowship
(49:54) OpenAI update: Microsoft reportedly integrating ChatGPT into Word and email, "derivative" AI tools, SOTD: XetHub, ChatGPT banned by NYC public schools
(1:02:38) Jason demos ChatGPT's upcoming iOS app, which is currently in private TestFlight beta
(1:11:12) Uber trademarks "Uber Air," eVTOL relationship with Joby Aviation, current chopper business
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
Subscribe to our YouTube to watch all full episodes:
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Coffeezilla joins M+J to discuss the latest on the alleged Logan Paul and CryptoZoo scam. (1:21) Then Em Herrera joins Rachel for this year’s first edition of Ok Boomer to discuss 2023 predictions. (50:29)
(0:00) Molly kicks off the show
(1:11) Coffeezilla joins Molly and Jason to discuss the alleged CryptoZoo Scandal and his background
(11:06) Supergut - Get 30% off with code TWIST at https://supergut.com
(12:37) Coffeezilla’s main issue with the alleged grift + What is CryptoZoo?
(19:58) MasterClass - Get 15% off an annual membership at https://masterclass.com/startups
(21:30) Logan Paul’s response video
(26:32) The red flags of CryptoZoo + What Logan should have done
(41:51) Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast at https://www.founder.university/podcast
(43:18) Overtime with Coffeezilla
(50:29) Ok Boomer: 2023 predictions with Em Herrera
FOLLOW Coffeezilla: https://twitter.com/coffeebreak_YT
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M+J kick off the show by discussing the news that Bing will integrate ChatGPT into its search service. (1:21) Then they chop it up about ZeniMax forming Microsoft’s first union. (15:06) And then Lon Harris joins the show to review Flux Gourmet and chat about the economics of streaming (27:11)
(0:00) J+M Kick off the show
(1:21) Bing to integrate ChatGPT into search
(13:30) Crowdbotics - Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at crowdbotics.com/twist
(15:06) ZeniMax forms Microsoft’s first union
(25:45) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(27:11) Lon, Molly and Jason discuss Flux Gourmet
(41:31) Founder University 2-Day Intensive Course - learn more at intensive.founder.university
(42:31) Starz cancels Dangerous Liaisons, Becoming Elizabeth and Step Up + the economics of streaming
FOLLOW Lon: https://twitter.com/lons
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Multiple time guest and friend of the pod Keith Rabois is back! Jason and Keith talk 2023 macro outlook (1:00), big tech's impact on startups (10:01), advice for founders (18:24), Meta's risky VR bet (27:22), ChatGPT vs Google (39:05), and more!
(0:00) Jason intros today's guest: Keith Rabois!
(1:00) Keith's 2023 macro outlook and thoughts on startup valuations
(8:54) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(10:01) What are big tech hiring freezes and RIFs doing to the startup market? Entitlement era coming to an end
(18:24) Advice for different archetypes of founders
(25:50) Acquire.com - Sign up for FREE at https://try.acquire.com/twist
(27:22) Importance of founder authority, Tim Cook taking over for Steve Jobs at Apple, Meta's risky VR bet
(37:34) Apply for the LAUNCH Accelerator: https://launchaccelerator.co
(39:05) Keith's thoughts on ChatGPT, a new approach to search, and Microsoft taking on Google
(53:37) What types of founders is Keith looking to invest in right now?
(59:25) OpenDoor thoughts + a little politics
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Jason and Molly are BACK for the first news show of 2023! First up, they break down SpaceX's reported $137B valuation, the astounding market opportunity for Starlink, and more! (7:14) Then, they cover two Shopify stories (37:38) and Apple shutting down fan-favorite weather app Dark Sky. (55:01)
(0:00) J+M intro today's topics!
(2:25) Thoughts on the potential year ahead
(7:14) SpaceX is raising $750M at a $137B valuation, led by a16z
(12:54) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(14:24) Producer Sam (powered by ChatGPT), Starlink's bottom-up TAM, SpaceX's genius infrastructure play
(29:56) Coda - The All-in-one doc for teams, sign up for free at https://coda.io/twist
(31:28) More ChatGPT producing
(37:38) Shopify is attempting to fill the ad targeting void left by Apple's App Tracking Transparency
(45:07) Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast at https://www.founder.university/podcast
(46:32) Second Shopify story: CEO Tobi Lutke has asked employees to purge meetings to increase productivity
(55:01) Apple shuts down the Dark Sky weather app
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Jason and Molly rip through 20+ predictions for 2023, including over/under bets, shutdowns, stocks, main characters, startups, new tech, and SO much more!
(0:00) J+M tee up today's show: 2023 Predictions!
(1:53) Main character of 2023
(4:35) Most anticipated trend
(7:13) Surprising shutdown
(9:40) Biggest bag securer
(13:36) Notion - Sign up for FREE at https://notion.com/jason
(15:06) App/tech breakout
(17:30) Most notable CEO resignation or return
(21:25) Most anticipated technology
(25:37) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(26:45) Most anticipated media
(29:09) Over/under: 30.5 year sentence for SBF
(30:07) Over/under: 10.5 year sentence for Caroline Ellison
(30:34) Over/under: $750M box office for Oppenheimer
(31:06) Over/under: 21 months left of recession
(31:46) Hottest take for 2023
(35:53) Fitbod - Get 25% off at https://fitbod.me/twist
(37:26) Will any VCs be charged in a crypto-related crime?
(38:16) Will total capital raised by VCs fall off a cliff?
(43:11) What startup will make the biggest impact?
(45:59) Overrated hot new vertical
(48:43) Will the fundraising landscape get better for startups?
(50:19) Over/under: 3 new impactful social apps
(51:18) Most stock appreciation: $AAPL, $AMZN, $GOOG, $META, $MSFT
(52:59) Most stock appreciation: $ABNB, $SPOT, $UBER
(55:21) Over/under: 177 IPOs
(56:07) When will VR replace the iPhone?
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Molly and Jason present... the 2022 TWiSTY Awards! Join them in commemorating all the best, worst, and craziest moments from this year in startups, markets, and tech!
(0:00) J+M intro today's show
(1:37) Introducing the 2022 TWiSTY Awards!
(3:18) Best prop
(7:51) Best behind the scenes emoji
(12:38) Mixpanel - Apply for $50K in credits at https://mixpanel.com/startups
(14:04) Best meme
(19:12) Best gadget
(22:44) Nutrisense - Use code TWIST and get $30 off at nutrisense.io/twist
(24:14) Best media
(39:40) Best Twitter follow
(42:55) Founder University - Apply at https://course.founder.university
(44:32) Main Character of the Year
(54:54) Bag Securer of the Year
(1:02:07) Best CEO of the Year
(1:10:03) Startup of the Year
(1:15:35) Defunct Startup of the Year
(1:20:52) News Topic of the Year
(1:26:55) Surprisingly Awesome Guest of the Year
(1:30:28) Interview of the Year
(1:32:56) Best Guest Chemistry of the Year
(1:39:28) Episode of the Year
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J+M kick off the show by discussing some approved changes to direct listings, which will make it easier for companies going public via direct listings to raise money! (1:18) Then, LAUNCH team member Charlie Cuddy joins Molly to demo Notion's new AI tool (14:07). Finally, Producer Rachel joins Molly to break down which popular consumer apps and tools to use to plan a last-minute NYE party. (33:12)
(0:00) Molly intros today's segments!
(1:18) J+M discuss the approved changes to direct listings, and how this might impact companies going public in 2023
(12:33) Crowdbotics - Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at https://crowdbotics.com/twist
(14:07) LAUNCH team member Charlie Cuddy joins Molly to demo Notion AI!
(31:58) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(33:12) Producer Rachel joins Molly to break down which popular consumer apps and tools to use to plan a last-minute NYE party!
(41:12) Founder University - Apply at https://course.founder.university
(42:52) Rachel and Molly discuss the best gig work apps, playlist tools, sober-curious beverages, and more!
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Christmas surprise! Check out Jason and Molly's FULL review of Tár, spoilers and all, with Lon Harris!
(0:00) Tár review from Thursday
(21:53) Bonus Tár review! Reviewing the critics, SPOILER REVIEW, and more!
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Molly and Jason discuss Caroline Ellison and Gary Wang pleading guilty to securities fraud. (2:04) Then Lon Harris joins J+M for this week’s edition of This Week in Streaming, where they discuss YouTube’s new 7-year multibillion-dollar deal with the NFL. (36:57) We wrap with Part 1 of their review of Todd Field’s latest film Tár. (1:06:12)
(0:00) J+M Kick off the show
(2:04) Molly and Jason react to Caroline Ellison and Gary Wang pleading guilty to securities fraud
(8:36) Odoo - Get your first app free and a $1000 credit at https://odoo.com/twist
(12:29) The Truth of FTX is confirmed + the difference between marketing a product and a security
(22:49) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(23:59) How will VCs fair if tokens are ruled as securities
(30:16) Molly and Jason’s hot takes on the FTX fallout
(35:17) Founder University - Build your MVP with help from Founder University at course.founder.university
(36:57) YouTube inks multibillion-dollar streaming deal with the NFL
(55:40) Lon runs down the topics in his newsletter, including Netflix’s Wednesday becoming a smash hit + actors who have not acted in a streaming series
(1:06:12) Part 1: Molly, Jason and Lon review Todd Field’s Tár (TO BE CONTINUED)
Kruze COO Scott Orn is back with Jason to educate founders on how to get the most out of their cash reserves. (0:00)
(0:00) Your fiduciary duty to protect and invest your cash responsibly + developing an investment policy
(8:00) Evaluating your chart of accounts + Jason's credit card hack
(12:30) Final thoughts for founders going into 2023
Check out Kruze: https://www.kruzeconsulting.com
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First up, J+M break down Disney's "Battle of the Bobs" (2:59), before covering two record-breaking fines against Epic Games, and explaining "dark patterns." (20:35) Molly wraps the show by interviewing ClimateCamp CEO Stijn Gysemans on Scope 3 emissions tracking! (44:26)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's topics!
(2:59) WSJ report on the rift between Iger and Chapek at Disney
(13:36) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(15:03) The role Christine McCarthy, Disney's CFO, played in bringing back Bob Iger
(20:35) Epic Games receives two record-breaking fines from the FTC, understanding "dark patterns" and deceptive design
(30:14) Blueground - Get up to $1000 off your booking at https://promos.theblueground.com/twist
(31:40) Tangent continued: calling out the worst "dark design" offenders
(44:26) ClimateCamp CEO Stijn Gysemans joins Molly Wood to chat target markets, Scope 3 emissions, and more!
(51:29) Understanding how emissions are calculated, EU rules and regulations
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(0:00) J+M tee up today's topics
(2:44) Weekend catchup and disruption at Salesforce
(15:44) Supergut - Get 30% off with code TWIST at https://supergut.com
(17:14) David Sacks tweets about the vicious cycle that Salesforce (and SaaS companies at large) will undergo, grading Benioff's feedback to employees
(31:43) Fitbod - Get 25% off at https://fitbod.me/twist
(33:15) Remote management issues with thousands of employees, where remote work will wind up in 2023
(47:50) The Pharaohs are taking issue with their pyramids being empty
(57:25) OpenAI is reportedly projecting $1B in revenue by 2024, plus another round of "Google Search or ChatGTP?"
(1:14:33) Little Big Things: Instagram's new "Notes" feature
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Molly and Jason celebrate the last VCSS of 2022 by reflecting on what Molly has learned over this past year. (1:24) Then Valerie Shen of G2 Venture Partners joins Molly for the final TWiCS of the year. (36:38)(0:00) J+M Kick off the show
(1:23) Molly reflects on her first year as a VC
(10:58) MicroAcquire - Sell your business with no fees at https://try.microacquire.com/twist
(12:29) The founder/VC relationship
(18:30) Learning how to be a VC in a downturn
(20:13) Crowdbotics - Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at crowdbotics.com/twist
(28:05) The art of patience + getting to 100 meetings
(30:34) Top VCSS episodes of 2022
(36:38) Valerie Shen joins Molly for TWiCS
(40:43) The history of G2 Venture Partners and Valerie’s role
(51:38) Climate Tech is becoming more popular
(1:01:28) Investable climate tech solutions
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Kruze COO Scott Orn is back with Jason to explain the MOST important financial information that founders should include in their pitch deck (
(0:00) Kruze's Scott Orn joins Jason to discuss the role of financial information in your pitch deck
(11:02) Conveying your vision with numbers
Check out Kruze: https://www.kruzeconsulting.com
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Brad Gerstner of Altimeter Capital joins Molly and Jason for an epic Friday show. They chop it up about the state of the economy, what it actually means to be founder friendly and discuss which big tech companies are“fit”. (1:24)
(0:00) J+M Kick off the show
(1:24) Brad Gerstner joins Molly and Jason
(10:28) Odoo - Get your first app free and a $1000 credit at https://odoo.com/twist
(11:38) Brad presents on interest rates, inflation and business multiples
(26:32) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(28:05) The Fed’s core mission
(37:54) Being founder friendly
(39:42) Brad’s letter to Meta
(48:33) Companies that need to get fit
(53:00) Google and Meta’s fitness
(58:08) The curse of the money-printing machine
(1:00:01) Google vs ChatGPT
(1:05:05) Is Uber fit?
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First up, Jason interviews Neetha Avalakki, the founder and CEO of EatKind. EatKind is an AI-powered search engine that converts ANY food or recipe into a vegan alternative. (3:20) Then Lon Harris joins Molly and Jason for another segment of This Week in Streaming. They play a TWiST version of celebrity mean tweets and discuss Neptune Frost. (36:41)
(0:00) M+J Kick off the show
(3:20) CEO of EatKind joins Jason
(8:31) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(9:41) Training EatKind’s AI + Product Market Fit
(18:29) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(19:44) Being a founder in India
(35:12) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(36:41) TWiST Mean Tweets with Lon Harris
(49:46) Reviewing Neptune Frost
(1:06:01) Directors and their breakthrough movies
(1:12:22) James Gunn’s plan for the DC Universe
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Molly and Jason react to a letter they received from Affirm after yesterday’s episode. (1:59) Then, Molly and Jason discuss Marco Rubio’s bipartisan legislation to ban TikTok (35:46), And finally, we cap off season 4 of The Next Unicorns with Co-Founder and CEO of Pearpop Cole Mason (59:28)
(0:00) M+J Kick off the show
(1:59) Molly and Jason respond to a letter from Affirm
(9:33) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(15:55) Comparing the pros and cons of BNPL
(27:42) Fitbod - Get 25% off at https://fitbod.me/twist
(29:06) Jason and Molly’s advice on debt
(35:46) Marcos Rubio’s bipartisan legislation to ban TikTok
(46:22) The battle with social media
(59:28)The Next Unicorns: Cole Mason, CEO of Pearpop
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Molly and Jason react to the breaking news that Bahamian authorities have arrested Sam Bankman-Fried. (1:27) Then, from earlier in the day, Molly and Jason chop it up about the news of The Block’s CEO Michael McCaffrey receiving $40M from Alameda Research. (27:41) We then close with a story about Walmart’s new BNPL service. (45:25)
(0:00) Molly kicks off the show
(1:36) Molly and Jason react to SBF getting arrested
(14:51) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(15:55) Kevin O’Leary’s FTX deal + Predicting what happens to SBF
(26:11) Nutrisense - Use code TWIST and get $30 off at nutrisense.io/twist
(27:41) Alameda gave Michael McCaffrey$40M
(45:25) Walmart launches a BNPL service
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Molly and Jason talk about their big weekends. (2:27) Then they discuss the culture war in tech right now (13:47). Followed by our new favourite game, ChatGPT or Google Search. (47:15) Then we wrap up with a breakthrough in the world of nuclear fusion. (1:17:16)
(0:00) J+M Kick off the show
(2:27) Molly and Jason Catch up after the weekend
(12:24) FanDuel Sportsbook - Sign up with promo code TWIST to place a $1000 risk-free bet at https://sportsbook.fanduel.com
(13:47) The culture war in tech
(28:00) Crowdbotics - Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at crowdbotics.com/twist
(29:23) Organizations getting bloated
(47:15) ChatGPT or Google Search + is Google in trouble?
(1:12:40) Check us out on Substack!
(1:17:16) WLITF: A major breakthrough in nuclear fusion
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J+M kick off the show discussing TAM, SAM, and SOM on this week’s edition of VCSS. (2:40) Then, HubSpot Co-Founder and Partner at Propeller Brian Halligan joins Molly to discuss his $100M venture fund to invest in protecting the world’s oceans. (26:00)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's segments!
(2:40) Exceeding your TAM + overestimating your TAM
(7:39) House of Macadamias - Get 20% off at https://houseofmacadamias.com/twist by using code TWIST20
(9:07) Inducing a market and Bottom-up TAM
(21:15) AgeTech Collaborative - Find out more and apply at https://agetechcollaborative.org/twist
(22:49) Molly introduces Brian Halligan
(26:00) Why the ocean + from founder to investor
(38:00) AgeTech Collaborative - Find out more and apply at https://agetechcollaborative.org/twist
(39:39) Propeller’s investments, their EIR program & thesis
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First up, Lon Harris joins to cover James Gunn's DC reboot (2:14), the business of superhero films (28:18), the top films of the year debate (37:15), and more! Then, Producer Rachel is back with another edition of OK Boomer, featuring through the Noise and Tribescaler founder Alex Banks! (1:21:27)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's segments!
(2:14) Lon Harris joins the show to discuss DC's James Gunn-led revamp
(9:29) Odoo - Get access to all of Odoo's apps, services, and maintenance for under $25 at https://odoo.com/twist
(10:37) Lon's thoughts on James Gunn's new DC plan, and what's working in the box office right now
(26:44) AgeTech Collaborative - Find out more and apply at https://agetechcollaborative.org/twist
(28:18) The business of superhero films
(35:40) AgeTech Collaborative - Find out more and apply at https://agetechcollaborative.org/twist
(37:15) Jason reacts to AO Scott's Best Movies of 2022 list
(44:19) Lon's top movies of 2022
(58:06) Other ongoing stories at Warner Bros Discovery and HBO Max
(1:21:27) OK Boomer: Producer Rachel interviews Through the Noise and Tribescaler founder Alex Banks
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FOLLOW Alex: https://twitter.com/thealexbanks
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Kruze COO Scott Orn is back with Jason to explain how founders can nail their investor updates!
(0:00) Kruze's Scott Orn joins Jason to discuss the MOST important metrics and information that founders should include in their investor updates to make them concise and effective
(11:49) Other non-financial items to include
(14:50) How to break bad news to investors
Check out Kruze: https://www.kruzeconsulting.com
FOLLOW Scott: https://twitter.com/scottorn
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First up, Jason answers some founder questions! (1:46) Then, MycoWorks Co-Founder Sophia Wang joins for this week's edition of The Next Unicorns! (10:12)
(0:00) Molly tees up today's segments!
(1:46) Ask Jason! What happens if a VC finds a great startup/founder to invest in, but they've already invested in a similar business
(4:31) Ask Jason! What is the ideal number of slides in a pitch deck? What are some general tips to spruce up a pitch deck?
(8:34) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at LinkedIn.com/nextunicorn
(10:12) Molly welcomes MycoWorks Co-Founder Sophia Wang to discuss her founding story, why she got into Mycelium solutions, and more!
(19:37) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(21:05) Sophia breaks down the technology process at MycoWorks
(27:39) MycoWorks's unusual fundraising journey
(30:15) Blueground - Get up to $1000 off your booking at https://promos.theblueground.com/twist
(31:43) Sophia explains her role as Chief Culture Officer, and explains some of the brands they work with
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First up, Molly breaks down some news stories, including Meta's ad troubles in Europe (1:24) and Semafor's saga with its climate editor departing. (9:51) Then, Jason answers questions from founders! (20:25) Finally, Producer Rachel joins Molly to discuss what happened with Hive Social. (32:10)
(0:00) Molly tees up today's segments!
(1:24) Molly covers Meta's targeted ad troubles in Europe - are we headed for a new standard for ad-based business models?
(8:24) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(9:51) Breaking down Semafor parting ways with its climate editor and a major crypto lending business is stopping its US operations
(19:12) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(20:25) Ask Jason! What percentage of equity should a startup give to an advisor?
(27:22) Ask Jason! General advice for founders pitching investors?
(29:31) Ask Jason! In this environment, should early-stage startups focus on profitability from day one?
(32:10) Rachel Reporting: Molly and Producer Rachel break down what happened with Hive Social and discuss broadcast platforms vs consumption platforms
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J+M start the show with some BREAKING NEWS: Slack CEO Stewart Butterfield is leaving Salesforce! (5:09) Then, they cover Circle canceling its SPAC (26:06), SBF's interactions with regulators and the media (40:29), and a Startup of the Day! (57:50)
(0:00) Molly tees up today's news topics!
(1:48) J+M catch up from the weekend
(5:09) BREAKING: Slack Founder and CEO Stewart Butterfield is leaving Salesforce two years after the Slack acquisition was announced
(12:49) Mixpanel - Apply for $50K in credits at https://mixpanel.com/startups
(14:14) Is this a Salesforce issue or a Slack issue? Is Salesforce's Co-CEO leaving last week just a coincidence?
(24:43) Crowdbotics - Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at crowdbotics.com/twist
(26:06) Circle cancels its SPAC over missed regulatory deadlines
(39:11) Fitbod - Get 25% off at https://fitbod.me/twist
(40:29) SBF and Maxine Waters, Semafor's potential illicit funds from SBF
(57:50) Startup of the Day! Loft Dynamics is building a VR helicopter flight simulator for ~95% cheaper than traditional simulators
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J+M are back for another edition of VC Sunday School. This week, they discuss momentum investing in venture capital! (1:35) Then, Molly interviews Convective Capital’s Bill Clerico on investing in firetech startups. (27:58)
(0:00) Molly tees up Sunday’s segments!
(1:35) VC Sunday School: Momentum investing: fair strategy, or sign of a bubble?
(12:56) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(14:30) Contrarian investing in VC
(26:28) Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub - Apply in 5 minutes, no funding required, sign up at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
(27:58) Molly is joined by Convective Capital’s Bill Clerico and talks about investing solely in firetech startups
(35:30) Bill breaks down the different types of firetech startups that he’s investing in
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J+M kick off the show by discussing and testing out OpenAI’s ChatGPT. (1:59) Then, they wrap up the news with a16z’s announcement that they are shutting down future.com (37:40). Producer Rachel ends the show with another edition of OK Boomer featuring Litquidity’s Jack Raines. (50:03)
(0:00) J+M Kick off the show
(1:59) Molly gets party theme suggestions from OpenAI’s new Chat GPT
(9:58) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(11:23) Compounding improvement of AI technology + David Friedberg’s ChatGPT poem and script
(18:33) Odoo - Get access to all of Odoo’s apps, services, and maintenance for under $25 at https://odoo.com/twist
(19:40) Molly and Jason discuss how ChatGPT works using RLHF
(26:57) Advice for founders + Molly & Jason test out ChatGPT
(36:13) MicroAcquire - Sell your business with no fees at https://try.microacquire.com/twist
(37:40) a16z sunsets future.com + media layoffs
(50:03) OK Boomer with Litquidity’s Jack Raines
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First up, J+M go through a tale of two interviews: SBF at DealBook (3:14) and on Good Morning America (31:58). Then, Lon Harris joins to discuss Disney's new in-house automatic de-aging tool and more! (47:00)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's segments!
(3:14) Covering Sam Bankman-Fried's two recent interviews, reacting to clips from SBF at the NYT DealBook conference
(12:14) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(13:43) SBF chimes in on VC responsibility and drug usage at FTX
(27:31) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(28:46) Finish up with clips from DealBook: FTX US and a final round of applause
(31:58) SBF's Good Morning America interview with George Stephanopoulos
(37:54) Nutrisense - Use code TWIST and get $30 off at nutrisense.io/twist
(39:24) Finishing on SBF's GMA interview and comparing the two interview styles
(47:00) Lon Harris joins to discuss Disney's new in-house automated de-aging tool
(1:07:48) $WBD in talks to license animated content to Amazon, Ben Affleck and Matt Damon's new artist-led venture, Lon's recommendations, Jason's nineties stories, and more!
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First up, Jason answers two great questions from the most recent cohort of Founder University! (1:34) Then, Molly and Producer Rachel discuss Spotify Wrapped's marketing genius and a potential new contemporary. (22:33) Finally, AMP Robotics Founder Matanya Horowitz joins Molly for another edition of The Next Unicorns! (40:02)
(0:00) Molly tees up today's segments!
(1:34) Ask Jason! Is the Generative AI boom for real?
(11:42) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(13:12) Ask Jason! How to survive text-to-image tools as a designer
(15:00) Ask Jason! How to build relationships with investors before you start fundraising
(21:07) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://LinkedIn.com/unicorn
(22:33) Molly and Producer Rachel break down this year's Spotify Wrapped (and a new contemporary!)
(38:38) Crowdbotics - Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at crowdbotics.com/twist
(40:02) Molly is joined by AMP Robotics founder Matanya Horowitz to talk about building recycling-focused robots!
(52:04) AMP's customers, target market, company mission, and how they train AI
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First up, J+M cover Twitter vs. Apple and the app store duopoly (2:10) before breaking down Google's employees per department. (32:48) They wrap up talking about Snap announcing a return to the office for all employees (37:09) and more crypto chaos. (58:18)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's topics!
(2:10) Twitter vs Apple
(9:23) Mayfair - Get 4% APY on your idle cash automatically at https://getmayfair.com/twist
(10:53) Apple/Google app store duopoly, Steve Jobs's original App Store pitch
(21:43) Blueground - Get up to $1000 off your booking at https://promos.theblueground.com/twist
(23:15) App Store as a blocker for startups, Apple's interesting priorities
(32:48) Google's employees per department breakdown, YouTube's insane efficiency
(35:40) Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub - Apply in 5 minutes, no funding required, sign up at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
(37:09) Google's dramatic headcount increase since 2019, Snap asks employees to return to the office 80% of the time starting in February, end of entitlement in tech
(58:18) BlockFi goes bankrupt and sues SBF, Miami nightclubs see ~99% decline in crypto payments
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Jason welcomes back Kruze COO Scott Orn for another edition of Startup Finance Basics! Jason and Scott break down the state of the market (0:00), 2023 budget planning (9:21), and how to nail investor comms! (14:58)
(0:00) Jason welcomes Kruze COO Scott Orn and they discuss the state of startups and VC
(9:21) What a 2023 budget plan should look like at a Seed stage startup
(14:58) Bias for action, investor comms
TechCrunch's Alex Wilhelm joins to break down the news! First up, the trio covers Pipe's Co-Founders abruptly stepping down (7:06) and the lessons learned. (26:29) Then, they discuss Apple's China-based iOS update impacting AirDrop (40:31) before Alex leaves. J+M finish the show with more thoughts on China and react to Black Friday's ATH sales volume and the BNPL boom. (1:11:01)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's topics and special news guest!
(2:21) J+M catch up on their Thanksgiving breaks with TechCrunch's Alex Wilhelm!
(7:06) Intense velocity of notable tech stories, teeing up the Pipe situation
(12:05) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(13:34) Breaking down the Pipe Co-Founders abruptly stepping down
(25:02) Supergut - Get 30% off with code TWIST at https://supergut.com
(26:29) Pipe's expansion into media and crypto, lessons learned from the "speculative asset bubble"
(37:21) Fitbod - Get 25% off at https://fitbod.me/twist
(38:39) Alex on running a subscription-based media business within an ad-based media business
(40:31) Protests in China, Apple's recent China-specific iOS update, which impacting AirDrop
(59:59) J+M wrap with thoughts on China after Alex departs
(1:11:01) Black Friday spending hits an all-time high, BNPL sees huge bump y/y
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On VC Sunday School, Jason and Molly discuss how VCs size their investments (1:40). Then, Molly is joined by Ben Birnbaum of Keyframe and TeraWatt! (13:17)
(0:00) Molly tees up today's topics!
(1:40) Jason breaks down how VCs think about bet sizing!
(11:43) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(13:17) Molly welcomes Ben Birnbaum of TeraWatt and Keyframe to discuss his background and why he started TeraWatt!
(27:07) Odoo - Get access to all of Odoo's apps, services, and maintenance for under $25 at https://odoo.com/twist
(28:15) Ben explains the current state of commercial EVs and TeraWatt's progress
(34:05) How TeraWatt spawned Keyframe, where Ben is an investment partner
(38:20) House of Macadamias - Get 20% off at https://houseofmacadamias.com/twist by using code TWIST20
(39:47) Ben explains how and why he started an investment firm to fund his own startup (and startups like it!)
Check out TeraWatt: https://terawattinfrastructure.com
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First up, Jason and Molly discuss Zoom's Q3 earnings and SaaS burnout throughout the industry (1:37). Then, they break down Amazon's $10B loss tied to its Alexa smart speakers (22:13) and an Airbnb Co-Founder's new housing startup! (34:54) Sunny Madra joins in the final segment to help explain the crypto contagion caused by the FTX collapse. (45:12)
(0:00) Jason tees up today's segments!
(1:37) J+M wind-down earnings season with Zoom's Q3 results and discuss SaaS burnout in tech
(14:40) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(15:55) How Zoom survives and thrives with insane competition
(22:13) Amazon's hardware/Prime Video division is on pace to lose ~$10B this year, mostly due to Alexa losses
(30:33) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(32:01) Solving Amazon's Alexa problem
(34:54) Startup of the Day: Airbnb Co-Founder Joe Gebbia has started a housing startup!
(43:46) Mixpanel - Apply for $50K in credits at https://mixpanel.com/startups
(45:12) Sunny Madra joins to break down the contagion throughout crypto caused by the FTX collapse
(1:08:51) More FTX craziness: SBF's hundreds of millions of secondary, FTX's real estate purchases, and more!
(1:14:14) Is Coinbase in danger as one of the last major exchanges standing? Could Bitcoin fall further? How hard will it be to raise VC in crypto going forward?
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Bob Iger is BACK as Disney CEO, and Bob Chapek has left the company! First, Jason and Molly break down how we got here (11:49) before Lon Harris joins to go deeper on Chapek's missteps and join in on some speculation and predictions for Iger's second stint as CEO! (23:25)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's EMERGENCY POD!
(1:40) Jason and Molly catch up on some wild news from the weekend: Elizabeth Holmes's sentencing, crypto contagion, and more!
(10:21) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(11:49) Bob Iger is back as Disney CEO as Bob Chapek steps down, Molly's Chapek intuition
(21:56) Crowdbotics - Get a free scoping session for your next big app idea at crowdbotics.com/twist
(23:25) Streaming expert Lon Harris joins to break down where Chapek went wrong as Disney CEO
(32:59) Supergut - Get 30% off with code TWIST at https://supergut.com
(34:30) More Chapek missteps, how he could have handled things differently, theories/predictions on Iger's next big swing
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J+M kick off the show with another edition of VCSS: a VC’s role in a down market and protecting your money and founders. (4:32) Then, Dan Meyers of Flair joins Molly for this week’s edition of TWiCS.(28:27)
(0:00) J+M discuss how winners start work on Sunday
(4:32) VC Sunday School: Raising and deploying capital in a collapsing economy
(11:32) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(13:02) Pay-to-Play + fiduciary duty vs friendship
(18:10) Smash Digital - Visit https://SmashDigital.com/TWIST to get a free SEO video audit for your business
(19:32) Dollar-cost averaging into a trade and having the founder’s back
(28:27) Molly kicks off TWiCS with Flair Founder - Dan Meyers
(36:41) Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub - Apply in 5 minutes, no funding required, sign up at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
(38:10) Flair’s business model and the smart puck and vent
(49:23) Dan’s pitch to customers and Flair’s competition
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Redfin CEO Glenn Kelman joins Jason to discuss the current downturn, operating in a recession, layoffs, the housing market and more. (1:31) Then, Producer Rachel is joined by Volv Co-Founders Shannon Almeida and Priyanka Vazirani. (33:46)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's segments!
(1:31) Glenn Kelman joins Jason to break down the current downturn, operating in a recession, layoffs, and more
(14:30) FanDuel Sportsbook - Sign up with promo code TWIST to place a $1000 risk-free bet at https://sportsbook.fanduel.com
(16:02) State of the housing market
(29:10) Zapier - Try for free today at https://zapier.com/TWIST
(30:43) Molly and Producer Rachel tee up this week's OK Boomer!
(33:46) Volv Co-Founders Shannon Almeida and Priyanka Vazirani join Producer Rachel to discuss their nine-second articles media concept
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Lon Harris joins for the FULL show to break down the most recent FTX book/film news (2:26), the business of horror movies (30:42), Apple’s MLS deal (46:43), and more!
(0:00) J+M tee up today’s show
(2:26) Lon joins to catch up on the most recent FTX book/film news
(14:16) Odoo - Get your first app free and a $1000 credit at https://odoo.com/twist
(15:24) FTX’s new CEO comments, mapping out FTX content based on the coming Michael Lewis book, CAA’s leaked email
(29:29) Dell for Startups - Apply for Dell for Startups and get an additional 10% off at http://dell.com/twist
(30:42) Business of horror movies: Blumhouse looking to merge with Atomic Monster
(38:39) Linode - Apply to Linode’s Rise program for up to six figures in discounts at https://linode.com/twist
(40:08) Giving Andor its flowers
(46:43) Apple’s deal for MLS streaming rights, White Lotus talk, and Lon recommendations!
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Molly rides solo today as she breaks down Amazon’s new telehealth business, Amazon Clinic. (1:40) Then, Calibrate CEO Isabelle Kenyon joins Molly for another edition of the Next Unicorns! (9:30)
(0:00) Molly tees up today's topics!
(1:40) Molly breaks down Amazon clinic
(8:15) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(9:30) Calibrate CEO & Founder Isabelle Kenyon joins Molly for the Next Unicorns to chat about calibrate and GLP-1s
(20:52) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at LinkedIn.com/nextunicorn
(22:30) Understanding how inflammation causes many chronic diseases + obesity epidemic
(35:51) MicroAcquire - Sell your business with no fees at https://try.microacquire.com/twist
(37:19) Calibrate’s enterprise business + inequality in healthcare
Check out Calibrate: https://www.joincalibrate.com
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J+M kick off the show with some banter about Russia, SBF, and the challenges of being a journalist. (1:51) Then, they discuss the scooter-sharing industry and Bird being under the eye of the SEC. (13:52) Molly and Jason discuss TechCrunch’s article titled ‘The dilemma of Chinese startups going global'. (24:45) We wrap up the show with a We Live in the Future segment featuring Simbe Robotics. (40:57)
(0:00) J+M kick off the show
(1:51) Russian missile, SBF, and the challenges of being a journalist
(12:24) Revelo - Get 20% off the first 3 months by mentioning TWIST at https://revelo.io/twist
(13:52) Scooter sharing industry + Bird in trouble for inflating revenues
(23:30) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(24:45) Molly and Jason discuss the dilemma with Chinese startups going global + Where is SBF
(39:29) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(40:57) We Live in the Future: Simbe Robotics
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First up, J+M break down Amazon's reported ~10K employee RIF (4:27) and try to wrap their heads around the current recession. (15:54) Then, they give an FTX update (26:25), break down the mobile gaming industry (38:12), discuss Shopify's reverse AR platform (47:43), and more!
(0:00) J+M tee up today's topics
(1:58) Weekend catch-up!
(4:27) Amazon will reportedly cut 10K corporate employees this week
(14:41) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(15:54) Why this recession is so unique, advice for founders
(25:16) Policygenius - Go to https://policygenius.com to get a free life insurance quote
(26:25) FTX update: SBF's confusing tweets, FTX's interesting corporate culture
(36:54) Fitbod - Get 25% off at https://fitbod.me/twist
(38:12) Current state of the mobile gaming industry
(47:43) WLITF: Shopify's reverse AR shopping tool
(55:18) SOTD: UpKeep lets users find, book, and pay for MedSpa treatments
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J+M kick off the show by discussing the ins and outs of corporate VC in this edition of VC Sunday School. (2:21) Then, Nodal Power CFO Daniel Sechrest talks with Molly about their independent power plants that convert methane from landfills into bitcoin. (26:38)
(0:00) J+M intro today's segments!
(2:21) What is Corporate VC + the motivations of CVC and founders who accept it
(10:33) Smash Digital - Visit https://SmashDigital.com/TWIST to get a free SEO video audit for your business
(11:54) The different types of CVC firms & Climate focused CVC
(25:09) Blueground - Get up to $1000 off your booking at https://promos.theblueground.com/twist
(26:38) Nodal Power CFO Daniel Sechrest joins Molly to break down how they turn landfill-based methane into bitcoin
(36:07) Odoo - Get your first app free and a $1000 credit at https://odoo.com/twist
(39:09) Daniel breaks down the history of Nodal Power + how it makes money
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J+M put a bow on an insane week by putting a bow on the FTX saga: a bankruptcy filing (2:25), the future of crypto VC (13:13), and the spiciest takes on the matter! (24:47) Then, Producer Rachel is joined by Owen Roe to break down the gaming economy on another edition of OK Boomer! (46:38)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's segments
(2:25) FTX files for bankruptcy
(11:38) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(13:13) Crypto red flags, crypto VC going forward, financialization
(23:28) Assure - To get 20% off your first Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) visit https://Assure.co/twist
(24:47) Other crypto dominos to fall, spiciest takes
(38:20) Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub - Apply in 5 minutes, no funding required, sign up at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
(39:50) We Live in the Future: Revamped Amazon Prime Drones!
(46:38) Owen Roe joins Producer Rachel to break down the gaming economy on another edition of OK Boomer!
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https://twitter.com/iamDCinvestor/status/1590844690089508864
https://twitter.com/gabrielhaines/status/1591090014942732289
J+M kick off the show by breaking down even MORE fallout from the FTX saga: SBF's Twitter thread (2:26), Sequoia's letter to LPs re: marking its FTX investment to $0 (12:02), and more! Then, Lon Harris joins to discuss Andor's brilliance (20:49), Disney's earnings (32:42), and Netflix considering live sports! (48:45)
(0:00) Jason tees up today's segments!
(2:26) More FTX fallout: SBF's notorious Twitter thread
(10:32) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(12:02) SEC and CFTC probe FTX, Sequoia's letter to LPs
(19:19) Mayfair - Get 4% APY on your idle cash automatically at https://getmayfair.com/twist
(20:49) Lon Harris joins to break down Andor's brilliance
(31:15) House of Macadamias - Get 20% off at https://houseofmacadamias.com/twist by using code TWIST20
(32:42) Disney earnings: Disney+ subscriber growth, how to integrate Disney+ to its parks and merch segments, and more
(48:45) Netflix considers live sports and recommendations from Lon!
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J+M start the show by breaking down the two biggest stories in tech: Meta's 13% RIF, impacting 11K employees (1:23) and the Binance/FTX fallout (19:21). Then, Homeward CEO Jenny Schneider joins Molly Wood for another edition of The Next Unicorns! (40:35)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's topics!
(1:23) Meta lays off 11K employees (13% of the company)
(14:20) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedIn.com/unicorn
(15:45) Alternative strategies for Meta
(19:21) Binance/FTX fallout
(28:14) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(29:40) Impact on crypto VC
(39:13) Coda - The all-in-one doc for teams, sign up for free at https://coda.io/twist
(40:35) Homeward CEO Jenny Schneider joins Molly Wood to break down why she started a company that provides healthcare services to rural areas in America
(49:15) Challenges for Homeward
(57:42) Breaking down Homeward's business model
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Vinny and Sunny join the show to cover all the angles of Sam Bankman-Fried selling FTX to Binance after a liquidity crunch! (0:54)
(0:00) Intro!
(0:54) Vinny Lingham and Sunny Madra join to break down SBF selling FTX to Binance after a liquidity crunch!
(13:36) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(15:04) Comparing FTX's bank run to traditional finance, understanding leverage, culture of: make money first, clean up later, Vinny's theory on Alameda's locked Solana
(23:24) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(24:35) Three areas of crypto, understanding where FTX and FTT fall in this, risks of centralized exchanges
(32:01) How this might impact broader crypto regulation, Bitcoin decoupling from the greater crypto market
(37:33) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(38:57) Understanding what happened to Binance's FTT: Who is the bag holder? How might this unravel going forward?
(42:55) FTX fundraising breakdown: could this situation break the crypto VC model?
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Monday! First, J+M dive deep on Meta reportedly cutting "many thousands" of jobs this week (1:56), the company's best path forward (12:14), and more. Then, J+M discuss some new Airbnb features (40:52) and Peloton's former CEO coming back with a new DTC startup! (55:39)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's topics!
(1:46) Meta will reportedly continue the trend of tech layoffs, to cut "many thousands" of jobs this week
(10:34) Notion - Sign up for FREE at https://notion.com
(12:04) Breaking down Meta's path forward, Jason's newest Jay Trade, plan for Meta to juice its stock price over the next 5-10 years
(31:56) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(33:22) More context on Meta layoffs, severance and finding jobs post layoffs, Meta's insane pace of hiring since 2019
(40:42) Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky announced new features: full pricing transparency, value prioritization, restrictions on checkout requests, and more!
(55:29) Former Peloton CEO John Foley is back with a new DTC startup
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J+M kick off the show with TWO VC Sunday School topics: understanding capital calls (2:11), and one-off SAFEs. (10:29) Then, Transaera CTO Ross Bonner joins the show to break down why he is building energy-efficient and sustainable cooling systems! (19:54)(0:00) J+M tee up today’s topics!
(2:11) VC Sunday School: Understanding capital calls
(9:04) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(10:29) Bonus VC Sunday School: One-off SAFEs
(18:32) Smash Digital - Visit https://SmashDigital.com/TWIST to get a free SEO video audit for your business
(19:54) Transaera CTO Ross Bonner joins Molly Wood to break down their sustainable cooling systems.
(33:21) Dell for Startups - Apply for Dell for Startups and get an additional 10% off at http://dell.com/twist
(34:34) Ross explains the role of heat pump technology at Transaera
Check out Transaera: https://www.transaera.com/
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First up J+M deep dive on Airbnb's Q3 earnings (1:27), before Producer Rachel joins for another edition of OK Boomer! (26:57)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's segments!
(1:27) Airbnb earnings: surviving the pandemic + most profitable quarter to date
(6:49) Comparing Airbnb/Uber market caps and the narrative around profitable companies
(12:36) Odoo - Get access to all of Odoo's apps, services, and maintenance for under $25 at https://odoo.com/twist
(13:38) Airbnb’s value prop + hidden fees, service industry issues
(25:42) Masterworks - Skip the waitlist to invest in fine art using at https://Masterworks.com/twist
(26:57) Producer Rachel joins J+M to tee up this week's OK Boomer segment
(30:34) Summer Rachel Wood joins Producer Rachel to discuss having a baby and raising a child as a Gen Z influencer
(41:19) Summer talks about creating content as a new mom, how she approaches posting her child, and the lack of education around pregnancy
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First, J+M discuss the recent wave of layoffs at Stripe, Opendoor, Lyft, and others. (1:54) Then, they dive deep into Robinhood's impressive Q3 (21:51), and what other companies can learn from RH's shrinking losses. Then, Producer Rachel joins to break down monetizable mood boards! (52:36)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's segments!
(1:54) Significant layoffs all over tech in the last few days: Stripe, Opendoor, Lyft, Dapper Labs, Chime, and more; Meta and Google's massive opportunity for profitability and share buybacks
(9:42) MicroAcquire - Sell your business with no fees at https://try.microacquire.com/twist
(11:11) Macro outlook, spending discipline in private and public sectors, Stripe vs Adyen
(20:40) Babbel - Save up to 55% off your language learning subscription at https://babbel.com/twist
(21:51) Robinhood Q3 earnings: diversifying revenue, subscription vs advertising
(36:14) Revelo - Get 20% off the first 3 months by mentioning TWIST at https://revelo.io/twist
(37:42) Key takeaway: Diversifying revenue at scale makes businesses anti-fragile; investing in battle-hardened CEOs
(41:58) Robinhood earnings: MAUs down significantly from peak, net loss shrinks 87% y/y
(52:36) Producer Rachel joins to discuss monetizable mood boards
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First up, Jason gives an update on his busy weekend. (2:32) Then, Molly joins to break down Uber's Q3 earnings report (8:50) and the macroeconomic picture. (14:31) Then, Brinc Drones CEO Blake Resnick joins for another edition of The Next Unicorns. (38:07)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's topics!
(2:32) Jason gives a quick work update
(8:50) Uber's Q3 earnings
(12:50) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at LinkedIn.com/nextunicorn
(14:31) Fed's newest 75 basis point rate hike, comparing average Uber driver earnings to teachers
(23:58) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(25:24) Ideas on improving public education
(31:47) Jason's warning to founders on the state of the downturn
(36:40) Kalshi - Sign up to win $100K at https://kalshi.com/efc
(38:07) Brinc Drones CEO and Founder Blake Resnick breaks down why he started a first responder safety-focused drone company
(47:12) Blake walks through a demo of Brinc's technology
(54:59) The business of running a hardware startup: sales cycles with government buyers, building prototypes, customer-focused product iteration
(1:07:24) Blake demos Brinc's newest product, the Brinc Ball
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Author, CEO of Revolution, and former AOL CEO Steve Case joins Jason to talk about his new book, "The Rise of the Rest". (0:50) They also discuss reflections on remote work (13:14), American economic resiliency (25:48), capital formation in America (36:32), and more!
(0:00) Show start
(0:50) Jason welcomes Steve Case: Author, CEO of Revolution, and former CEO of AOL to talk about his book, "The Rise of the Rest"
(11:44) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(13:14) Remote work reflections: can a great company be built fully remote?
(24:37) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(25:48) American economic resiliency, China's capitalist system going off the rails, not staying complacent
(34:16) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(35:31) Opening investor access, fixing capital formation in America
(43:16) Politics and policy involvement
Molly Wood breaks down some shakeups in the self-driving space: TuSimple fired its CEO and is being probed by the FBI and SEC (1:40), and Argo AI has shut down after raising ~$2.6B. (8:50) Then, Divvy Homes CEO Adena Hefets joins the podcast to break down the state of the housing market and share thoughts on last week's hit piece. (14:09)
(0:00) Molly tees up today's segments!
(1:40) TuSimple CEO fired, company probed by FBI, SEC
(8:50) Argo AI shuts down
(12:45) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(14:09) Adena Hefets joins Molly Wood to discuss the Fast Company article covering her startup Divvy Homes last week
(25:17) Grammarly - Sign up for a free and get 20% Grammarly Premium at https://grammarly.com/TWIST
(26:49) Operating a business where the stakes are high (homeownership, healthcare, etc)
(31:17) Adena breaks down the state of the US housing market
(35:14) Athletic Greens - Get 1 year of Vitamin D free and 5 free travel packs with your first purchase at athleticgreens.com/twist
(36:34) State of debt markets, operating in different interest rate environments, different capital structures, taking advantage of low-interest rates
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First up, J+M cover how to approach a market that's heating up during a downturn (1:42), before covering warrants. (25:07) Then, Voyager's Nat Bullard joins to discuss his journalist to VC path and Voyager's climate focus. (32:09)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's segments!
(1:42) How to approach a market that's heating up during a downturn
(11:26) Blueground - Get up to $1000 off your booking at https://promos.theblueground.com/twist
(12:58) Strategies around patience in VC, entering markets at the wrong time
(25:07) Understanding warrants
(30:49) Paperclip - Go to getpaperclip.com/twist to get the app free for life
(32:09) Nat Bullard joins Molly and breaks down his path from journalist to climate VC
(39:15) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(40:38) Voyager's thesis, most exciting investment opportunities in climate
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First up, Jason goes solo to break down more Meta fallout and Amazon's Q3 earnings. (1:59) Then, Lon Harris joins J+M to break down House of the Dragon's huge finale, James Gunn hired to run DC Films, and more! (21:56) Finally, Producer Rachel wraps the show with another edition of OK Boomer! (1:59)
(0:00) Jason tees up today's segments!
(1:59) Jason breaks down Meta's predicament
(11:21) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(12:55) What Jason would do to fix Meta's stock tumble
(16:28) $AMZN Q3 earnings breakdown
(20:32) Smash Digital - Visit https://SmashDigital.com/TWIST to get a free SEO video audit for your business
(21:56) Lon Harris joins to discuss House of the Dragon's S1 finale
(34:33) Kalshi - Sign up to win $100K at https://kalshi.com/efc
(36:01) More House of the Dragon discussion: show content, massive ratings; then they discuss Black Adam and James Gunn taking over at DC
(42:37) Bob Chapek's comments on animated content spark backlash; streaming business predictions and streaming recommendations!
(1:08:36) Molly and Producer Rachel tee up this week's OK Boomer segment!
(1:11:31) Tommy Clark joins Producer Rachel to discuss his experience with social media marketing
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Sunny and Vinny are BACK for another crypto roundtable! First up, they give instant reactions to Meta's rough Q3 earnings and Zuck's big bet (1:59), before breaking down Meta's AR/VR battle with Apple (15:14). Then, the trio does a full NFT breakdown: Reddit's NFT usage (20:19), new App Store rules (27:41), and understanding royalties! (37:52) Then, they wrap by covering SBF facing backlash and a crypto Q&A. (47:54)
(0:00) Jason tees up today's topics!
(1:59) Jason welcomes Sunny and Vinny, and the trio breakdown Meta's Q3 earnings right as they drop!
(14:12) Odoo - Get your first app free and a $1000 credit at https://odoo.com/twist
(15:14) Who will win the AR/VR wars: Meta or Apple?
(20:19) Reddit's NFT usage
(26:12) Revelo - Get 20% off the first 3 months by mentioning TWIST at https://revelo.io/twist
(27:41) Are Apple's new App Store NFT rules overreaching, or a great sign for crypto?
(36:28) Smash Digital - Visit https://SmashDigital.com/TWIST to get a free SEO video audit for your business
(37:52) Understanding NFT royalties
(47:54) SBF facing backlash after comments on regulation
(57:39) Crypto Q&A!
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First up Jason does a solo breakdown of recent earnings reports from $MSFT (1:38), $GOOG (13:59), and $SPOT. (26:46) Then, Molly is joined by Coco CEO Zach Rash for another edition of The Next Unicorns! (39:09)
(0:00) Jason tees up today's segments
(1:38) Microsoft earnings breakdown
(12:42) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(13:59) Google earnings breakdown
(25:20) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://LinkedIn.com/unicorn
(26:46) Spotify earnings breakdown
(33:54) Why now is the best possible time to start a company
(37:58) TripActions - Go to https://tripactions.com/twist and get a $500 Amazon gift card after making your first travel booking OR paying off your first $1000 of liquid spend
(39:09) Coco CEO and Founder Zach Rash joins Molly Wood to talk about his robo-delivery startup!
(55:38) Last mile delivery market size, why Coco is focusing on remote-controlled vs autonomous, and more!
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First up, J+M discuss Shutterstock partnering with OpenAI and what this means for ownership and IP rights. (1:56) Then they break down Apple partnering with Level to sell a smart lock (29:00) and what the world would be like with a Mach 9 spaceplane. (35:03) Molly wraps the show with a solo news breakdown! (40:37)
(0:00) Molly tees up today's segments!
(1:56) J+M break down Shutterstock partnering with OpenAI and DALL-E 2 and what this means for IP and content rights
(15:30) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(16:56) How would Jason solve the "training data" problem from both sides? Is the cat out of the bag regarding ai-generated images?
(27:50) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(29:00) Apple partners with Level to sell a smart lock
(35:03) WLITF: Venus Aerospace's Mach 9 spaceplane!
(39:08) Kalshi - Sign up for a chance to win $100K at https://kalshi.com/efc
(40:37) Molly solo segment!: US semiconductor employee shortage, India fines Google $113M, Apple's NFT update
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J+M cover Brad Gerstner's letter to Zuck and three-point plan to boost Meta's FCF 2x (7:04), an NFT project located at the Fyre Fest island (33:19), and a hit piece on Divvy Homes and its CEO, Adena Hefets. (39:38)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's topics!
(2:08) Opening banter/weekend catch-up!
(7:04) Brad Gerstner published an open letter to Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, outlining a plan to double FCF and boost its stock price
(12:11) Linode - Apply to Linode's Rise program for up to six figures in discounts at https://linode.com/twist
(13:41) Specific plans in Brad's letter, the "open-letter approach", Meta efficiency comparisons and advertiser treatment
(27:16) House of Macadamias - Get 20% off at https://houseofmacadamias.com/twist by using code TWIST20
(28:32) Meta's revenue/capex vs. Google
(33:19) Homeownership NFTs on the infamous Fyre Fest island!
(38:08) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(39:38) J+M go through a hit piece against Divvy Homes and Adena Hefets and describe what subtle tells indicate a hit piece
(1:10:40) Jay Trading update, geopolitics, and more!
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First up, J+M chop it up about venture debt on this edition of VC Sunday School. What are the dangers? And when should your startup take it on? (2:12) Then, Molly has a conversation with Mi Terro founder Robert Luo about how they are targeting the world’s microplastic problem. (19:33)
(0:00) J+M tee-up topics for Sunday
(2:12) Jason warns founders of the dangers of taking on venture debt
(9:23) Harmonic - Get $4000 off at https://harmonic.ai/twist
(10:42) Jason addresses when venture debt can and cannot work + PAG’s new venture wealth fund
(18:05) MicroAcquire - Sell your business with no fees at https://try.microacquire.com/twist
(19:33) Robert Luo joins Molly to explain how Mi Terro is solving the world’s microplastic problem
(28:50) Revelo - Get 20% off the first 3 months by mentioning TWIST at https://revelo.io/twist
(30:17) Robert talks about competition, his background as an entrepreneur and the future of Mi Terro
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First up, J+M discuss YouTube’s new @handle feature (2:10) and break down how TikTok and Facebook aren’t catching misinformation in political ads. (10:07) Then, they each do a solo segment! Jason chimes in on Open AI reportedly raising more money from Microsoft (20:53) and Molly breaks down Snap’s 30% drop and BeReal’s ~$600M valuation. (27:39) Producer Rachel ends the show with another segment of OK Boomer featuring recurring guests Jules Terpak and Danny Miranda. (38:08)
(0:00) Jason and Molly tee up today’s show!
(2:10) YouTube has a new @handle feature (and we’re @startups)
(9:05) Odoo - Get your first app free and a $1000 credit at https://odoo.com/twist
(10:07) TikTok and Facebook aren’t catching misinformation in political ads
(19:23) TripActions - Go to https://tripactions.com/twist and get a $500 Amazon gift card after making your first travel booking OR paying off your first $1000 of liquid spend
(20:53) Jason discusses Open AI reportedly raising more money from Microsoft
(27:39) Molly breaks down Snap’s ~30% drop and BeReal’s ~$600M valuation
(36:33) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(38:08) Producer Rachel talks to Jules Terpak and Danny Miranda about AI Podcasts
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First up, J+M break down Tesla's Q3 earnings with the help of some insightful charts (2:09), before discussing Kevin Hart's VC firm landing JP Morgan as an LP (17:08) and some ideas for Twitter verification. (27:29) Then, Lon Harris joins the show to cover Netflix's Q3 earnings, its coming ad-supported tier, and how he would revamp the DCEU! (37:19)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's segments!
(2:09) Tesla Q3 earnings breakdown
(15:37) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(17:08) Kevin Hart lands JP Morgan as an LP for Hartbeat Ventures, his VC firm
(26:05) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(27:29) Twitter verification ideas
(35:52) Blueground - Get up to $1000 off your booking at https://promos.theblueground.com/twist
(37:19) Lon Harris joins the show to break down Netflix's Q3 earnings and its plans for an ad-supported tier
(1:00:05) Head of DCEU leaves, Lon gives his thoughts on how he would revamp DC to compete with the MCU
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New format! Jason evaluates some prior Next Unicorns company's performances since the CEO appeared on the podcast (2:06), and contextualizes the fundraising market throughout the past three years. Then, Jason wraps the show by answering listener questions! (48:18)
(0:00) Jason tees up today's new Next Unicorns format!
(2:06) Jason shares some thoughts on why he started The Next Unicorns series and tees up some of the most successful companies over the first three seasons
(5:32) E971: Checkr CEO Daniel Yanisse
(10:37) E987: Upgrade CEO Renaud Laplanche
(13:59) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(15:29) E992: former Expanse CEO Tim Junio
(23:14) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at LinkedIn.com/nextunicorn
(24:51) E998: Benchling CEO Saji Wickramasekara
(28:32) E1089: Insitro CEO Daphe Koller
(33:26) Kalshi - Sign up at https://kalshi.com/twist and receive $25 after trading your first 100 contracts
(34:57) E1098: Cockroach Labs CEO Spencer Kimball
(38:19) E1113: Loom CEO Joe Thomas
(43:02) E1246: Divvy Homes CEO Adena Hefets
(48:18) Ask Jason: 2023's "Why now?", Jason's favorite qualities in a founder and person, greatest acquisitions of all time
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First up, J+M cover Stability AI's new billion-dollar valuation (2:45) before Jason runs through a presentation and a manifesto. (15:33) Then, J+M break down Roblox's stock popping 20% on Monday (33:02), and another excellent WLITF segment featuring Joby Aviation! (42:57)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's news topics!
(2:45) Stable Diffusion-maker Stability AI raises at a $1B valuation!
(14:05) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(15:33) Jason runs through his talk: "Why you should build -- or join -- a startup" and his document on goals at LAUNCH
(24:59) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(26:10) J+M discuss the expectations at LAUNCH vs most other venture firms
(33:02) Roblox stock popped 20% on Monday after a strong metrics report
(37:32) Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub - Apply in 5 minutes, no funding required, sign up at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
(39:01) Metaverse-winning pair trade, discussion on getting back to work
(42:57) Delta invests $60M into eVTOL-maker Joby Aviation and plans to eventually offer Joby trips to and from airports starting in NY and LA
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J+M break down Ye agreeing to acquire Parler and share some thoughts on the artist's current situation. (2:22) Then, they cover CCP President Xi Jinping's recent comments on the current state of China (22:39), and what the world might look like with less globalization. (28:58) They wrap with a social media Startup of the Day (52:29) and a space-themed We Live in the Future! (1:04:40)
(0:00) J+M intro today's topics!
(2:22) Ye has agreed to acquire Parler, a free speech-focused Twitter competitor
(15:35) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(16:49) More thoughts on Ye's current situation
(22:39) CCP President Xi Jinping's recent comments on the state of China and his goals moving forward
(27:27) Notion - Sign up for FREE at https://notion.com
(28:58) Unwinding globalization, issues with codependency
(38:31) Helpware - Go to https://helpware.com/TWIST to get $1000 off your first invoice
(39:55) Where CCP policies went wrong, what other countries can learn from them
(52:29) Startup of the Day: Gas is a new social media startup geared towards positive superlatives for high school friend groups
(1:04:40) We Live in the Future: Spinlaunch's rotating arm that launches satellites into low Eather orbit
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First up, J+M discuss The Wing shutting down, where it went wrong, and avoiding ego-based pitfalls. (1:35) Then, Alan Chang joins Molly to break down his idea behind Tesseract Energy! (22:37)
(0:00) J+M tee-up topics for Sunday
(1:35) The Wing shuts down: what went wrong
(12:44) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(14:18) Understanding and avoiding ego- and success-based founder pitfalls
(21:24) FanDuel Sportsbook - Sign up with promo code TWIST to place a $1000 risk-free bet at https://sportsbook.fanduel.com
(22:37) Alan Chang joins Molly and explains his idea behind Tesseract Energy, his time at Revolut, and more!
(35:20) MasterClass - Get 15% off an annual membership at https://masterclass.com/startups
(36:36) Understanding how a token plays into Tesseract's energy platform
Friday variety! First up J+M cover a wide range of topics, including VC ghostwriters (12:45), firms investing in public tech companies (22:29), and news lightning round! (34:51) Then, Producer Rachel is back with another edition of OK Boomer. (53:30)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's topics!
(2:45) J+M talk about happy hour, discuss some All-In topics, geopolitics, markets and more!
(11:42) Odoo - Get your first app free and a $1000 credit at https://odoo.com/twist
(12:45) VCs are hiring ghostwriters on Twitter!
(21:10) Assure - To get 20% off your first Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) visit https://Assure.co/twist
(22:29) WSJ reports that VCs are investing in growth-stage public tech companies rather than late-stage private startups
(33:25) House of Macadamias - Get 20% off at https://houseofmacadamias.com/twist by using code TWIST20
(34:41) Lightning round: Decentraland's usage stats, use cases for Meta's new AR headset, Netflix announces ad-supported tier launch date and price
(50:22) Producer Rachel joins to tee up this week's OK Boomer!
(53:20) Cliff Lerner joins to discuss his new social startup Saturdays
Vinny Lingham and Sunny Madra are back for another crypto roundtable! The show starts with a discussion on Nvidia's new high-powered graphics cards (2:35) and an AI-generated podcast interview. (15:21) Then, the group breaks down the SEC investigating Yuga Labs over whether or not Bored Apes are securities! (27:07)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's crypto roundtable!
(2:35) J+M welcome Sunny Madra and Vinny Lingham; Vinny breaks down his new Nvidia purchase and how graphics cards will power the next wave of AI
(14:03) Dell for Startups - Apply for Dell for Startups and get an additional 10% off at http://dell.com/twist
(15:21) Podcast.ai's AI-generated Steve Jobs/Joe Rogan interview
(25:50) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(27:07) The SEC is investigating Yuga Labs over its Bored Apes NFT collection, regarding whether or not the NFTs are securities
(36:24) Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub - Apply in 5 minutes, no funding required, sign up at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
(37:26) What is this SEC investigation actually about? Why or why not are they securities? What are other similar examples?
(50:55) More interesting developments in the NFT space, Google announces it will use Coinbase to accept crypto payments
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First up J+M discuss TikTok's apparent plan to build an e-commerce business via US fulfillment centers! (8:57) Then, Molly is joined by Liquid Death CEO Mike Cessario to discuss the genesis of a great brand and more. (17:26)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's segments!
(2:13) Starlink, 5G, and the rapid advancement of internet connectivity
(8:57) TikTok appears to be hiring for product fulfillment centers in the US
(16:11) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(17:26) Molly welcomes Liquid Death Co-Founder and CEO Mike Cessario; they discuss Mike's background pre-Liquid Death and his advice for brand building
(28:27) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://LinkedIn.com/unicorn
(29:53) Irreverent marketing approaches pre-Liquid Death, building the Liquid Death brand before launching the product
(38:00) Paperclip - Go to getpaperclip.com/twist to get the app free for life
(39:06) Describing the genesis of the Liquid Death brand, what CPGs have historically gotten wrong, building a brand based on comedy; understanding flavor demand
Check out Liquid Death: https://www.liquiddeath.com
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J+M kick off the show by catching up after Molly's speaking gig yesterday (2:31), before breaking down the US Labor Dept proposing new rules for worker classification (16:23). Then, they discuss self-driving food-running robots (49:11) before discussing potential consolidation in the instant-delivery space! (58:39)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's topics!
(2:31) Molly's keynote, Jason teaching the next Founder University, data defaults, and liability
(14:57) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(16:23) US Labor Dept proposes new test for employee vs. independent contractor classification, understanding the history of worker classification
(26:17) Policygenius - Go to https://policygenius.com to get a free life insurance quote
(27:39) Creating better benchmarks for employees
(35:35) Revelo - Get 20% off the first 3 months by mentioning TWIST at https://revelo.io/twist
(37:02) Uber's proactive attempt at a "third way" solution between independent contractors and employees
(49:11) Startup of the Day: Bear Robotics is creating self-driving food-running robots for restaurants
(58:39) Potential consolidation in the instant-delivery market: Getir is in advanced talks to acquire Gorillas
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Acquired's Ben Gilbert fills in for Molly Wood and joins Jason to discuss Amazon's transformation (3:57), AI edge cases (22:02), Peloton's mistakes (32:05), used car prices (59:59), and the current VC market downturn. (1:09:18)
(0:00) Jason tees up today's topics!
(3:57) Acquired's Ben Gilbert joins Jason to break down the news! First up: Amazon sunsets its "Scout" project, and its transformation from a Day 1 to a Day 2 company
(10:45) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(11:53) Coco's delivery robots, history of the delivery robot space, where Coco robots can work, the maturation of smartphone components
(22:02) AI edge cases: capturing the likeness of a celebrity/notable person
(27:33) Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub - Apply in 5 minutes, no funding required, sign up at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
(29:03) Escaping the Uncanny Valley
(32:05) Peloton cuts 500 more jobs; CEO's comments make employees panic
(37:28) Zapier - Try for free today at https://zapier.com/TWIST
(38:59) Peloton's two major corporate strategy mistakes, Apple's mass market luxury innovation
(59:59) Used car prices are down significantly
(1:09:18) VC market downturn coming off a record 2021; was 2021 an aberration?
Check out Acquired: https://www.acquired.fm
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First, Jason explains why many VCs focus on ownership percentage and maintaining ownership throughout an investment life cycle. (1:40) Then, Molly welcomes Flowcarbon CEO Dana Gibber to break down her blockchain-based carbon credits solution! (23:04)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's segments!
(1:40) VC Sunday School: Why many VCs obsess over ownership percentage
(9:19) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(10:53) Jason uses a table to explain dilution over an investments life cycle and why ownership percentage matters
(21:43) SnackMagic - Get 10% cashback up to $1000 until October 15th with code HOLIDAY, and see more at snackmagic.com/twist
(23:04) Molly welcomes Flowcarbon CEO and Co-Founder Dana Gibber; Dana explains how she got involved with Adam and Rebekah Neumann and Flowcarbon's core offering
(36:58) MicroAcquire - Sell your business with no fees at https://try.microacquire.com/twist
(38:29) Dana breaks down carbon offsets
(51:14) Dana explains the blockchain verification aspect of Flowcarbon
(58:38) How Flowcarbon plans to make money, why doing this on the blockchain is the best solution
Check out Flowcarbon: https://www.flowcarbon.com
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First up, J+M discuss new developments in the US chip industry, including tighter restrictions on exports and a massive new investment in an upstate NY factory! (4:57) They also cover fixing US education (12:37) and a shocking lawsuit against Amazon. (27:58) Then, Producer Rachel is joined by Verci Co-Founders Ami and An on OK Boomer! (40:03)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's segments!
(1:57) Molly and Jason catch up on Friday!
(4:57) US clamps down on chip exports to China, Micron brings chip plant to Upstate NY
(11:22) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(12:37) Fixing US education
(24:26) Masterworks - Skip the waitlist to invest in fine art using at https://Masterworks.com/twist
(25:48) CHIPS positivity
(27:58) Amazon lawsuit with shocking allegations
(38:51) Odoo - Get your first app free and a $1000 credit at https://odoo.com/twist
(40:03) Producer Rachel is joined by Verci Co-Founders Ami and An to talk about their community group
Jason opens the show by answering listener questions for 20+ minutes! (1:19) Then, Lon Harris joins to break down Netflix's new mega-hit, the death of network TV, and more! (30:22)
(0:00) Jason tees up today's topics!
(1:19) How founders building hardware and deep tech products can more efficiently raise capital
(3:58) Settling Co-Founder disputes
(8:28) Jason's thoughts on Seattle as a place to live and as a startup hub
(9:58) Is now the right time to jump to FAANG with a high-paying role?
(13:06) Athletic Greens - Get 1 year of Vitamin D free and 5 free travel packs with your first purchase at athleticgreens.com/twist
(14:20) Benefits of taking VC for a founder that's already successfully bootstrapping
(19:40) How There Will Be Blood relates to entrepreneurship
(23:35) Is there an age cutoff for investing in founders?
(28:56) Revelo - Get 20% off the first 3 months by mentioning TWIST at https://revelo.io/twist
(30:22) Lon Harris joins the show to discuss the biggest stories in streaming
(34:17) Netflix has a new hit show about Jeffrey Dahmer
(38:48) Babbel - Save up to 55% off your language learning subscription at https://babbel.com/twist
(39:59) Understanding Netflix's numbers with the Dahmer show, and the financials around the show's creator Ryan Murphy
(47:30) Network TV is dying, Comedy Central's big mistake, and more general streaming talk
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J+M start the show by suggesting some Twitter product ideas (1:59), before ripping through a lightning round of news. (16:26) Then, Molly welcomes Ellevest CEO and Co-Founder Sallie Krawcheck to kick off another season of The Next Unicorns! (31:09)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's topics!
(1:59) Jason suggests some Twitter product ideas
(14:48) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at LinkedIn.com/nextunicorn
(16:26) News lightning round: Elizabeth Holmes has sentencing postponed due to incident with a key witness, Europe votes in favor of universal USB-C charging
(28:55) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(31:09) Ellevest CEO Sallie Krawcheck joins Molly to discuss her women-focused investing platform
(39:06) Helpware - Go to https://helpware.com/TWIST to get $1000 off your first invoice
(40:31) Ellevest total assets, launch story, COVID's harsher impact on women
(51:39) Sallie's background on Wall Street, turning haters into customers
(1:00:13) Sallie shares thoughts on the current macro environment
Check out Ellevest: https://www.ellevest.com
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Ellevest State of Women’s Financial Wellness in 2022: https://s3.amazonaws.com/production.assets.ellevest.com/documents/Ellevest-The-State-of-Womens-Financial-Wellness-in-2022.pdf
First J+M say as much as they can about the Twitter news (2:03), before breaking down Poshmark being acquired by Naver (6:38). Then, they break down Liquid Death's $700M valuation (34:05) and Selena Gomez raising at a $100M valuation for her pre-revenue mental health startup. (46:05)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's topics!
(2:03) Elon Musk proposes closing the Twitter deal at the agreed-upon price of $54.20/share
(6:38) Poshmark acquired by Naver
(15:50) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(17:06) The booming "circular economy" space, Naver's acquisition thesis, "Goodwill Finds", Google's circular economy program
(26:54) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(28:17) Jason's ideas for a circular economy startup
(34:05) Liquid Death raises $70M at a $700M valuation, on pace for ~$130M revenue in 2022
(38:43) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(40:06) Importance of branding and packaging in CPG
(46:05) Selena Gomez raises $5M at a $100M valuation from Serena Williams VC firm for her startup Wondermind, mental health startup space
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Monday! First up, J+M go down the rabbit hole on Tesla AI Day, what impact some form of general AI might have on the world, and more! (2:09) Then, the duo covers the SEC charging Kim Kardashian for unlawfully promoting a token (35:29), before wrapping with the SCOTUS announcing they will hear two cases regarding Section 230. (59:05)
(0:00) J+M tee up Monday's topics!
(2:09) J+M open with some thoughts on Tesla's AI Day
(11:48) Notion - Sign up for FREE at https://notion.com/twist
(13:21) What could the advancement of AI do for creating businesses and humanity as a whole?
(24:24) SnackMagic - Get 10% cashback up to $1000 until October 15th with code HOLIDAY, and see more at snackmagic.com/twist
(25:50) Examples of what impact general AI might have on the future, Tesla's AI advantage
(34:15) Odoo - Get your first app free and a $1000 credit at https://odoo.com/twist
(35:29) SEC charges Kim Kardashian with unlawfully promoting crypto token
(59:05) SCOTUS will hear two cases regarding Section 230, how algorithms play into the publisher vs. platform debate
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On VC Sunday School, J+M discuss how and when VCs decide to sell a position. (2:01) Then, Molly is joined by Future's Jean-Louis Warnholz to discuss his startup, Future, which offers a climate-friendly debit card! (21:28)
(0:00) J+M tee up topics for Sunday!
(2:01) On VC Sunday School, J+M discuss how and when VCs decide to sell a position
(9:07) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(10:14) Jason talks about his fund management strategy
(18:13) Molly tees up today's TWiCS guest!
(19:54) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(21:28) Jean-Louis Warnholz joins to discuss his climate-focused debit card
(31:10) Harmonic - Get $4000 off at https://harmonic.ai/twist
(32:28) Jean-Louis Warnholz breaks down Future's business model
Check out Future: https://www.future.green
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First up, J+M discuss the virtuous cycle of tech startups (2:15) before breaking down Mr. Beast turning down a $1B acquisition offer for his media business (24:58). Then, Producer Rachel is joined by content creator Taylor Bell to discuss her lessons from growing a brand to 180K+ subscribers while having a full-time job. (39:02)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's segments!
(2:15) Demystifying "Friends and Family" rounds, history of angel investing
(10:32) Athletic Greens - Get 1 year free of Vitamin D and 5 free travel packs with first purchase at athleticgreens.com/twist
(11:57) The virtuous cycle of tech startups, angel investing
(23:53) Paperclip - Go to getpaperclip.com/twist to get the app free for life
(24:58) Mr. Beast turned down a $1B acquisition offer for his media company
(33:24) Producer Rachel joins to tee up today's OK Boomer guest!
(37:45) MasterClass - Get 15% off an annual membership at https://masterclass.com/startups
(39:02) Taylor Bell joins Producer Rachel to discuss starting and growing a YouTube channel to 180K+ subscribers while having a full-time job
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J+M discuss Meta's new text-to-video tool and what the future of creativity might look like (2:59), then they break down Zuck's grand plan (14:49) before discussing what a recession might mean for startups (27:18) and SoftBank reportedly cutting 30% of its Vision Fund staff. (36:41)
(0:00) J+M intro today's segments!
(2:59) Meta announces text-to-video tool
(13:33) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(14:49) Breaking down Zuckerberg's grand plan
(21:58) Meta freezes hiring, signals that we've entered a recession
(25:52) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(27:18) How a recession and big tech layoffs will impact startups
(35:28) Odoo - Get your first app free and a $1000 credit at https://odoo.com/twist
(36:41) SoftBank is reportedly planning to cut at least 30% of Vision Fund staff
(41:29) Jason welcomes Lon Harris and the pair discuss HBO's House of the Dragon and its 10-year time jump
(51:37) Warner Bros Discovery sued for allegedly misrepresenting HBO Max subscribers by 10M during the Discover / WarnerMedia merger
(57:48) Favorite actors to watch doing anything, rockstars in today's world
(1:03:03) CCP censors a popular film for its realistic depiction of rural life in China
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Sunny Madra and Vinny Lingham are BACK for another crypto roundtable! First up, a full breakdown of the current NFT space: Apple allowing in-app NFT purchases (1:35), best uses cases & platforms for distribution (15:07). Then, they discuss Bitcoin's role during global macroeconomic headwinds. (37:46)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's crypto roundtable!
(1:35) Apple allows in-app purchases of NFTs
(13:33) TripActions - Go to https://tripactions.com/twist and get a $500 Amazon gift card after making your first travel booking OR paying off your first $1000 of liquid spend
(15:07) NFT use cases, best platforms for minting and distributing NFTs seamlessly
(26:19) WorkOS - Go to https://workos.com to learn how to make your app enterprise-ready.
(27:49) NFT platforms adopting open standards to reach critical mass
(31:38) Celsius reportedly plans to issue "IOU" tokens representing its debt
(36:28) Spokn - Get 3 months free at https://getspokn.com/twist
(37:46) Global macro headwinds, Bitcoin's role in the monetary system going forward
(53:18) Will we ever find out who Satoshi is?
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J+M break down Cathie Wood's new VC fund (1:53), Bill Gurley's best insights from his interview with McKinsey (26:13), and Girls Who Code making a banned books list in a Pennsylvania county
(0:00) J+M tee up today's venture-heavy topics!
(1:53) Cathie Wood's new VC fund: Ark Venture Fund
(12:34) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(13:42) Opening up VC funds and early-stage investing for retail investors, signs of the start of a recession
(24:46) Revelo - Get 20% off the first 3 months by mentioning TWIST at https://revelo.io/twist
(26:13) Reacting to Bill Gurley's interview with McKinsey
(33:51) FanDuel Sportsbook - Sign up with promo code TWIST to place a $1000 risk-free bet at https://sportsbook.fanduel.com
(34:54) More on Gurley's insights: short memories in VC, accepting reality, startups raising too much money, layoffs
(47:32) Girls Who Code made a banned books list in a Pennsylvania county
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J+M break down the British pound dropping below $1.04 (5:15), Interpol issuing a red notice for Do Kwon (27:07), NASA's DART mission (53:52), and TikTok discussing an agreement with the Biden administration! (59:44)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's topics!
(2:48) Importance of focus, avoiding the news cycle in the grand scheme of things
(5:15) British pound crashes to lowest level ever against the USD
(13:15) Indochino - Get $50 off any purchase of $399 or more by using code TWIST at checkout https://www.indochino.com
(14:38) Breaking housing and energy in the economy, income inequality's impact globally
(25:34) Grammarly - Sign up for a free and get 20% Grammarly Premium at https://grammarly.com/TWIST
(27:07) Interpol issues red notice for Do Kwon on behalf of South Korea
(35:39) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(36:54) Do Kwon tweeting on the lamb, more theories around where he might head to
(47:15) New decentralized crypto derivatives platform Nibiru raises a $7.5M seed at a $100M valuation
(53:52) WLITF: NASA's DART mission and planetary defense
(59:44) The Biden administration drafted a preliminary agreement with TikTok to try and resolve national security concerns
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First up, J+M discuss founder ambition and tools vs. platforms on VC Sunday School. (3:06) Then, USV's Albert Wenger joins to break down his firm's $162M climate fund, his book "The World After Capital", and more! (24:16)
(0:00) J+M intro today's topics!
(3:06) Evaluating founder ambition, tools vs. platforms
(11:14) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(12:48) How investors evaluate tools vs. platforms, and when/if something is "too hard"
(19:50) J+M tee up today's TWiCS guest
(22:50) SnackMagic - Get 10% cashback up to $1000 until October 15th with code HOLIDAY, and see more at snackmagic.com/twist
(24:16) Molly welcomes USV Managing Partner Albert Wenger to discuss USV's $162M climate fund and the climate crisis investment opportunity
(33:26) Coda - The All-in-one doc for teams, get a $1,000 credit at https://coda.io/twist
(34:57) Albert discusses his book "The World After Capital", and the human attention problem
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Shopify CEO Tobi Lütke joins Jason for the third time to break down Shopify's wild ride over the past 2+ years (1:40), $SHOP's new compensation system (14:19), competing with Amazon (45:38), Shop Pay (56:25), and more! Then, Producer Rachel welcomes Jules Terpak back for another segment of OK Boomer! (1:15:58)
(0:00) Jason intros today's segments!
(1:40) Shopify CEO Tobi Lütke joins to break down Shopify's wild ride over the past 2+ years and the state of the e-commerce market post-COVID peaks
(13:00) Spokn - Get 3 months free at https://getspokn.com/twist
(14:19) Dealing with stock price distractions during periods of volatility, innovating Shopify's compensation system
(27:56) Masterworks - Skip the waitlist to invest in fine art using at https://Masterworks.io/twist
(29:23) Tobi breaks down the ideation of Shopify's new "Flex Comp" system
(38:53) Helpware - Go to https://helpware.com/TWIST to get $1000 off your first invoice
(40:09) Laying off 10% of staff over the summer
(45:38) Competing with Amazon, innovating in fulfillment
(56:25) Shop Pay, BNPL, and remote work quirks
(1:15:58) Producer Rachel welcomes Jules Terpak back for another OK Boomer segment covering Gen Z online life, the entertainment economy, social media backlash, "Sharenting" and more
FOLLOW Tobi: https://twitter.com/tobi
FOLLOW Jules: https://twitter.com/julesterpak
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FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
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(0:00) J+M tee up today's segments!
(2:57) J+M intro Ben Huh and discuss his background and why he helped start Orange DAO
(15:21) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(16:51) Understanding how DAOs handle distributions, more DAO mechanics
(26:06) Odoo - Get your first app free and a $1000 credit at https://odoo.com/twist
(27:20) People taking advantage of business processes left up to interpretation, how blockchain helps solve this, standardizing DAOs
(36:58) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(38:22) Understanding trustworthiness, downside protections, will the US fall behind in crypto?
(48:32) J+M welcome Lon Harris!
(56:13) Amazon's $11B TNF deal
(1:06:20) House of the Dragon doing huge numbers for HBO, Rings of Power
(1:17:06) Andor, Disney+'s new Star Wars show
(1:24:02) Disney losing goodwill with superfans, where to put the next Disney park
Check out Orange DAO: https://www.orangedao.xyz
Check out Origami: https://joinorigami.com
FOLLOW Ben: https://twitter.com/benhuh
FOLLOW Lon: https://twitter.com/lons
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FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
On today's show, Mojo CEO and Co-Founder Vinit Bharara joins Jason to talk about his new stock market to bet on athletes, Mojo, which just launched in New Jersey. (1:39) Vinit breaks down the thesis (17:07), does a product demo (40:27), and explains how they raised $100M to build a stock market from scratch and provide instant liquidity!
(0:00) Jason tees up today's interview!
(1:39) Jason intros Vinit Bharara, who breaks down his past business ventures including Cafe.com, Diapers.com, working with his brother Preet!
(13:05) Brave - Download today at https://brave.com/twist to browse faster, search privately and so much more
(14:28) Managing Preet at Cafe.com
(17:07) Vinit explains the thesis behind Mojo
(24:40) Neo.Tax - Get $500 off R&D tax credit fees at https://neo.tax/twist
(26:02) Raising $100M from Thrive Capital, Tiger, and more
(39:09) Spokn - Get 3 months free at https://getspokn.com/twist
(40:27) Vinit runs through a Mojo product demo
(53:58) Building a team of handicappers and quants
(1:00:56) Vinit and Jason share 9/11 stories
Tuesday SPAC-tacular! J+M cover the biggest on-goings in the world of SPACs, including: the latest in the trial of former Nikola CEO Trevor Milton (1:55), Chamath winding down $IPOD and $IPOF and returning money to investors (30:53), and a breakdown of Rumble's business after completing its SPAC! (42:55)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's SPAC-tacular episode!
(1:55) More chaos at Nikola, Jason reacts to TWiST interview reportedly being used in court
(10:48) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(12:04) State of charges against former Nikola CEO Trevor Milton, lessons for founders to take away from this saga
(23:18) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(24:37) How Jason avoids founders pitching ahead of their skis
(30:53) Chamath to wind down $IPOD and $IPOF
(35:06) Revelo - Get 20% off the first 3 months by mentioning TWIST at https://revelo.io/twist
(36:33) Jason's thoughts on the market and the state of SPACs, plus a JAY TRADE!
(42:55) Rumble completes SPAC merger, J+M break down the business
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
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Jason and Molly kick the week off by breaking down the team's favorite new social media app, BeReal, and its plans to add paid features (15:16). Then, they cover how platforms found fake accounts suspected of being run by the US military (31:12). After, they continue with more tech news, including Apple's iPhone 14 Pro bug (42:25) and Twilio's plans to make "anti-racist" layoffs (49:29). They end the show with a We Live in the Future segment, highlighting the startup TransPod (1:03:06).
0:00) J+M tee up today's segments!
(2:45) The hosts recap the weekend
(14:01) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(15:16) BeReal's plans to add paid features
(29:46) Notion - Sign up for free at https://notion.com/twist
(31:12) Platforms found fake accounts suspected of being run by the US military
(40:59) Odoo - Get your first app free and a $1000 credit at https://odoo.com/twist
(42:25) The iPhone 14 Pro camera has a camera bug
(49:29) Twilio's plans to make "anti-racist" layoffs
(1:03:06) WLITF: TransPod's affordable ultra-high-speed transportation
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
Welcome to Sunday! First up, J+M cover different methods and classifications for dealing with failing startups. (2:01) Then, Molly interviews Team Wildfire CEO Steve Wolf about his "Hurricane-as-a-Service" business! (31:56)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's segments!
(2:01) VC Sunday School: J+M discuss hospice care for startups
(10:50) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(11:58) VC fund dynamics with Zombie startups, Jason explains "pay to play"
(25:32) Spokn - Get 3 months free at https://getspokn.com/twist
(27:03) J+M tee up this week's climate interview!
(31:56) Steve Wolf explains his jet engine powered fire-fighting device
(37:21) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(38:55) Steve breaks down the business side of Team Wildfire, "Hurricanes-as-a-Service", and more!
(55:32) Molly gets a virtual tour of the "Hurricane on wheels"
Check out Team Wildfire: https://www.teamwildfire.com
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
Friday variety is back! First up, J+M do a Startup Breakdown and cover newsletter platform beehiiv and how it could disrupt Substack's pricing model (2:27). Then, they cover leaked documents from Meta that show Reels is underperforming (12:52) before Producer Rachel wraps the show with another edition of OK Boomer! (26:18)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's segments!
(2:27) Startup of the Day Breakdown! beehiiv charges a flat subscription rate for newsletter subscriptions, price comps with Substack
(11:28) Indochino - Get $50 off any purchase of $399 or more by using code TWIST at checkout https://www.indochino.com
(12:52) Leaked Meta documents show Instagram's "Reels" product is underperforming
(22:51) Producer Rachel joins to tee up today's OK Boomer guest!
(24:48) Zapier - Try for free today at https://zapier.com/TWIST
(26:18) OK Boomer: Josh Kaplan joins to break down his background and starting Smooth Media
(35:14) WorkOS - Go to https://workos.com to learn how to make your app enterprise-ready.
(36:43) Why newsletters are an efficient way for influencers to monetize
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
FOLLOW Rachel: https://twitter.com/_rachelbraun
FOLLOW Josh: https://twitter.com/JKaplan1
J+M kickoff the show by discussing Adobe acquiring Figma for $20B! (2:30) Then, they cover Patagonia's founder donates nearly all profits to solve climate change. (21:53) Finally, Lon Harris joins to discuss streaming consolidation, consumer burnout, and some interesting new projects! (46:36)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's topics!
(2:30) Adobe acquires Figma for $20B in a cash and stock deal!
(14:42) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(16:12) Post-merger thesis, large deal user diligence
(21:53) Patagonia founder donates his profits to solving climate change
(29:46) SnackMagic - Get 10% cashback up to $1000 until October 15th with code HOLIDAY, and see more at snackmagic.com/twist
(31:08) Lon Harris joins to break down the state of streaming: consolidation is coming
(37:26) Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub - Apply in 5 minutes, no funding required, sign up at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
(38:49) More cuts coming to $WBD, price increases coming to Disney+ and other services, streaming fatigue
(46:36) New content to keep an eye on!: new Blade Runner series green lit at Amazon, Spotify series coming to Netflix, and more
FOLLOW Lon: https://twitter.com/lons
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
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First up, Jason is back with the tenth and FINAL edition of The Blueprint, where he explains the seven ways to create wealth (2:12). Then, Vinny and Sunny join J+M for a crypto roundtable, covering: Do Kwon's arrest warrant (24:04), the ETH merge (49:54), an Orange DAO breakdown (1:14:24), and more!
(0:00) J+M tee up today's topics!
(2:12) The Blueprint Part 10: The seven ways to create wealth
(13:01) Visa - Learn more about Visa’s online Small Business Hub at Visa.com/smallbusinesshub
(13:57) The Blueprint Part 10 continued: The seven ways to create wealth
(19:20) J+M catch up on the current state of early-stage dealmaking
(22:39) Brave - Download today at https://brave.com/twist to browse faster, search privately and so much more
(24:04) Vinny and Sunny join! First topic: a South Korean court issued an arrest warrant for Do Kwon
(36:51) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(38:07) How to make crypto safer for retail investors
(49:54) ETH merge, insane stats on crypto power usage
(1:14:24) Orange DAO breakdown
(1:33:23) Vinny challenges Jason's Disney Jay Trade
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First up, J+M discuss Bob Iger joining Thrive Capital as a venture partner (2:09), then they break down the most interesting moments from the Twitter whistleblower hearings (24:48). After that, they discuss KKR tokenizing part of its new healthcare fund (57:43), before wrapping on the Launch House allegations. (1:06:22)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's topics!
(2:09) Legendary former Disney CEO Bob Iger joins Thrive Capital as venture partner
(12:23) Revelo - Get 20% off the first 3 months by mentioning TWIST at https://revelo.io/twist
(13:45) How Iger linked up with Josh Kushner, false perceptions of VCs
(23:32) Dell For Startups - Apply for Dell for Startups and get an additional 10% off at http://dell.com/twist
(24:48) J+M react to clips from Twitter whistleblower Peiter "Mudge" Zatko's congressional hearing today
(33:13) Assure - To get 20% off your first Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) visit https://Assure.co/twist
(34:33) More clips from the hearing and reflections on Twitter's security issues
(57:43) KKR tokenizes part of its new healthcare fund to allow QPs to invest more easily
(1:06:22) Launch House allegations
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
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J+M are back recapping this week's episode of All-In and how to stop brigading on Twitter (1:42). They also cover Bolt cancelling its $1.5B acquisition of crypto payments startup Wyre (19:46), Roku adding a TikTok-style feature (30:31), and two We Live in the Future stories! (39:48)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's topics!
(1:42) All-In recap, how Twitter can reduce brigading, and more
(18:26) This podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp - Get 10% off your first month at https://betterhelp.com/twist
(19:49) Bolt cancels $1.5B Wyre acquisition
(29:05) Liquid IV - Get 15% off at https://liquidiv.com using promo code TWIST
(30:34) Roku adds TikTok-style feature to its streaming software
(38:17) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(39:51) We Live in the Future: John Deere's self-driving tractors
(49:48) We Live in the Future: $5B Moon-themed hotel might be coming to Dubai
(56:22) China is ramping up its moon operations due to discovering a new mineral
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
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Sunday special! First up, J+M break down how VCs view founders with a side hustle (1:44), and how founders can actually make their side hustles accretive to their startup. (12:45) Then, Molly interviews Bay Bridge Ventures Co-Founder & GP Joe Blair on his ESG-focused VC firm. (28:00)
(0:00 Molly tees up today's segments!
(1:44 How VCs view founders with multiple roles
(11:24) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(12:45) How to create side hustles that are accretive to your startup
(20:52) J+M tee up today's climate interview
(26:56) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(28:00) Joe Blair, Co-Founder & GP at Bay Bridge Ventures, joins Molly to break down his institutional ESG and sustainability-focused firm
(36:09) Spokn - Get 3 months free at https://getspokn.com/twist
(37:37) Bay Bridge's thesis, evaluating what qualifies as an ESG investment, diligence on hard tech, and more
Friday Variety is back! First up, J+M break down Muck Rack's $180M Series A (10:43). Then, Elly Health Co-Founder Cecilia Anderson joins Molly to discuss her startup (21:16). Finally, Producer Rachel interviews Contra Founder Ben Huffman for another edition of OK Boomer. (32:38)
(0:00) Jason tees up today's segments!
(1:19) Jason recaps his crazy evening at the Lady Gaga concert
(9:53) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(10:43) Muckrack (a database for journalists) raised a $180M Series A(ish)
(19:18) WorkOS - Go to https://workos.com to learn how to make your app enterprise-ready.
(20:48) Elly Health Co-Founder Cecilia Anderson joins the show to break down her startup
(30:52) Neo.Tax - Get $500 off R&D tax credit fees at https://neo.tax/twist
(32:10) Producer Rachel interviews Contra founder Ben Huffman on another edition of OK Boomer!
Check out Elly Health: https://www.ellyhealth.com
FOLLOW Ben: https://twitter.com/_BenHQ
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FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
First up, J+M discuss Kim Kardashian's new PE firm and break down what this means for the broader private investing industry (2:29). Then, Lon Harris joins the show to break down the controversy, history, and math around Amazon's Rings of Power series (25:58).
(0:00) Today's segments!
(2:29) J+M break down SKKY Partners, Kim Kardashian's new PE firm!
(12:04) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(13:34) Has VC entered the public consciousness? Will VC see more high profile celebrities crossing over and starting funds? Is this the future of VC?
(24:54) Helpware - Go to https://helpware.com/TWIST to get $1000 off your first invoice
(25:58) Lon joins to break down Amazon's Rings of Power taking over online discourse, but first they talk about Twitter being a net negative for society
(36:00) Policygenius - Go to https://policygenius.com to get a free life insurance quote
(37:26) Lon explains controversy in Tolkien fandom, the trio gives quick reviews for Rings of Power and House of the Dragon
(54:50) Bezos's vanity play, how Amazon can turn a profit on Rings of Power
FOLLOW Lon: https://twitter.com/lons
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J+M have big hotel energy today as the duo lets it fly on a bunch of topics including: Trump's documents (2:21), Code Conference poker stories (18:40), Instagram shutting down "Shopping" + Zuck's new look (33:36), Starlink (1:04:37), and more! Then, Molly joins Jason for part 9 of The Blueprint! (1:13:00)
0:00 J+M intro today's segments
2:21 Theories on Trump's classified documents
17:18 SnackMagic - Get 10% cashback up to $1000 until October 15th with code HOLIDAY, and see more at snackmagic.com/twist
18:40 Molly's big interview + Jason's tells poker stories from the Code Conference
29:06 Visa - Learn more about Visa’s online Small Business Hub at Visa.com/smallbusinesshub
30:02 Jason brainstorms a publicity stunt
33:36 Instagram looks to sunset "Shopping" feature, Zuck changes his public persona
40:02 Brave - Download today at https://brave.com/twist to browse faster, search privately and so much more
41:28 Jason confronts his Zuck-induced insecurity
48:11 Why Instagram is shutting down its "Shopping" tab
49:16 Reacting to Apple's event, new watch, AirPods, and iPhone 14
1:04:37 Starlink helping bring broadband to rural areas via school COVID subsidies
1:13:00 The Blueprint Part 9: Molly Wood on manifesting your future!
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First up, Jason explains his DTC investment thesis (3:00), before he and Molly give some insight into the Bay Area heat wave (13:41). Then, Jason and Molly dive deep on reporting that instant delivery startup Jokr might be raising a new round with unusual liquidation preferences (25:50), then Jason breaks down what liquidation preferences are with some spreadsheets. To wrap, J+M cover a witness in the Elizabeth Holmes trial going rogue! (53:27)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's topics
(3:00) Holiday weekend catch up + Jason explains his DTC investment thesis
(12:15) Notion - Sign up for FREE at https://notion.com/twist
(13:41) Bay Area heat wave, Burning Man recap
(24:31) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(25:50) Jokr look to raise between $35M-$50M from existing investors, why they have closed operations in the US, how immigration and labor plays into Jokr's decision
(33:43) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(35:01) Breaking down liquidation preferences and why Jokr investors are looking for an unusually large liq pref in its upcoming round
(53:27) A witness in the Elizabeth Holmes case has gone rogue!
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On VC Sunday School, J+M discuss why Jason is planning on raising LAUNCH Fund IV in public! (2:38) Then, Raffael Jovine joins to discuss how Brilliant Planet is growing algae and using it to sequester carbon (39:25)
(0:00) Teeing up today's topics
(2:38) J+M discuss Jason's plain to raise LAUNCH Fund IV in public
(10:44) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(12:18) LP relationships, partner capital requirements, and more fund talk!
(20:16) Odoo - Get your first app free and a $1000 credit at https://odoo.com/twist
(21:42) Teeing up Molly's interview plus an ESG chat!
(38:10) MasterClass - Get 15% off an annual membership at https://masterclass.com/startups
(39:25) Raffael Jovine joins Molly to discuss how Brilliant Planet is growing algae and using it to sequester carbon
Check out Brilliant Planet: https://www.brilliantplanet.com
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
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Friday Variety Show! First up, Jason answers a bunch of listener questions. (1:16) Then, Molly interview two amazing LAUNCH portfolio founders building marketplace businesses! (21:09) To wrap the show, Producer Rachel is back with another edition of OK Boomer (42:04)
(0:00) Jason tees up today's segments!
(1:16) Ask Jason: How to vet startups when you're an employee looking to join one
(5:55) Ask Jason: Keep building a specifically requested feature for a major customer OR focus on the core offering?
(10:32) iTrust Capital - Visit https://itrust.capital/twist to create your Crypto IRA today
(11:38) Ask Jason: A pro athlete asks Jason for his advice on transitioning into VC
(14:42) Ask Jason: Two hypothetical questions about Uber's business
(19:29) Grammarly - Sign up for a free and get 20% Grammarly Premium at https://grammarly.com/TWIST
(21:09) Molly sits down with Giphting CEO Seth Brown to talk about his on-demand gift-giving marketplace
(29:16) Neo.Tax - Get $500 off R&D tax credit fees at https://neo.tax/twist
(30:32) Molly interviews EnrichedHQ CEO Carleen Haylett about her business: a two-sided marketplace of life skills programs for kids!
(42:04) OK Boomer: Producer Rachel interviews Andrew Yeung on tactics for throwing an amazing networking event/dinner
Check out Giphting: https://www.giphting.com
Check out EnrichedHQ: https://www.enrichedhq.com
FOLLOW Seth: https://twitter.com/GiphtingSeth
FOLLOW Carleen: https://twitter.com/carleenhaylett
FOLLOW Andrew: https://twitter.com/andruyeung
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Huge interview today. "Power Law" author Sebastian Mallaby joins the show to break down some of the most important moments in VC history and his lessons from writing the book, including: the youth revolt (14:18), KP vs Sequoia (27:02), what makes a legendary VC (38:40), and more!
(0:00) Jason tees up today's interview with "Power Law" author Sebastian Mallaby
(1:42) Sebastian explains how and why he wrote a book on the history of VC
(13:13) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(14:18) The virtuous cycle of luck early in a VC career, youth revolt in startups, Zuckerberg spurning Sequoia
(26:02) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(27:02) Tom Perkins and the Kleiner Perkins rise and fall vs Sequoia's sustained dominance, KP's Genentech investment
(37:18) Harmonic - Get $4000 off at https://harmonic.ai/twist
(38:40) What characteristics make a legendary VC?
(56:29) Why are institutional LPs allocating more capital to VC, what happened with China's interest in the industry? Other investable industries other than software
FOLLOW Sebastian: https://twitter.com/scmallaby
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FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
BUY "Power Law": https://www.amazon.com/Power-Law-Venture-Capital-Making/dp/B094PSKDZV
Jam packed show! First up, The Blueprint is BACK as Jason breaks down how he finds and develops emerging talent (1:36). Then, Bloomberg's Apple Guru Mark Gurman is back to discuss the latest on Apple's AR project. (31:33)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's topics!
(1:36) Jason explains his strategy for finding and developing all-stars
(13:30) Visa - Learn more about Visa’s online Small Business Hub at Visa.com/smallbusinesshub
(14:26) Jason's tips for managing emerging talent
(22:51) Brave - Download today at https://brave.com/twist to browse faster, search privately and so much more
(24:16) How to attract the right people to your startup
(30:12) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(31:33) J+M welcome Bloomberg's Mark Gurman to break down all things Apple, including projected timelines for Apple's AR goggles and the importance of Apple's chip business
(46:17) Mark gives his dream Peloton acquirer and grades Jason's Jay Trade on Apple
FOLLOW Mark: https://twitter.com/markgurman
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BIG Tuesday show! First up, J+M break down the insane saga of Twitter's now-cancelled OnlyFans-like product (1:41), OpenSea NFT trading volume dropping ~99% (20:47), a MAJOR FTC lawsuit against a data broker selling sensitive info (36:26), and more!
(0:00) Molly tees up today's news roundup!
(1:41) Twitter's cancelled OnlyFans-like product
(10:21) Dell - Apply for Dell for Startups and get an additional 10% off Dell Latitude products at https://dell.com/twist
(11:49) Practical issues around mixing adult content with brand advertising, Twitter's internal problems
(19:24) Indochino - Get $50 off any purchase of $399 or more by using code TWIST at checkout https://www.indochino.com
(20:47) OpenSea single day trading volume dropped ~99% from a peak of $400M+ in early May to ~$5M in late August
(29:42) Vanta - Get $1,000 off automating your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(30:46) Alexis Ohanian's Seven Seven Six is raising $177M to invest in distressed crypto assets
(36:26) Potentially groundbreaking FTC lawsuit brought against a data broker for selling sensitive geolocation information without user consent
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
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First up, J+M break down YC announcing Garry Tan as its new President and CEO, and what this means for the industry. (11:44) Then, they break down Apple potentially showing its card for its AR goggles name (37:16), and they wrap with some commentary on Eminem and Snoop Dogg performing as their Bored Apes at the VMAs. (58:20)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's topics
(2:12) Catching up on the weekend
(10:18) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(11:44) Garry Tan is stepping back from Initialized to become YC's new CEO and President
(25:05) TripActions - Go to https://tripactions.com/twist and get a $500 Amazon gift card after making your first travel booking OR paying off your first $1000 of liquid spend
(26:34) Jason explains "no conflict, no interest"
(35:46) WorkOS - Go to https://workos.com to learn how to make your app enterprise-ready.
(37:16) Quick Jay Trading update, Apple files trademarks for potential AR goggles name
(58:20) Eminem and Snoop Dogg performed as their Bored Apes over the weekend at the MTV VMAs
Sunday show! On VC Sunday School, J+M discuss how VCs deploy reserves for follow-on funding. (1:58) Then, Molly interviews Quaise CEO & Co-Founder Carlos Araque about his geothermal drilling business! (24:02)
(0:00) J+M tee up segments for Sunday!
(1:58) Jason and Molly talk about how VCs deploy reserves for follow-on funding and bankroll management
(10:31) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(11:47) Golden State Warriors impact on Jason's system-based VC team building philosophy
(15:48) J+M tee up today's TWiCS interview!
(22:46) Neo.Tax - Get $500 off R&D tax credit fees at https://neo.tax/twist
(24:02) Quaise CEO Carlos Araque joins to break down his business: drilling to unlock geothermal energy
(33:03) Helpware - Go to https://helpware.com/TWIST to get $1000 off your first invoice
(34:10) Carlos explains the size of Quaise's opportunity and how he raised $50M+ Series A for a deep tech project, what their business model will look like, and more!
Check out Quaise: https://www.quaise.energy
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
Subscribe to our YouTube to watch all full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkkhmBWfS7pILYIk0izkc3A?sub_confirmation=1
Friday Variety Show! First up J+M break down Twitter adding podcasting to the platform and what this means for the product and for the podcasting industry. (2:14) Then, LAUNCH portfolio founder Pete Oxenham joins to discuss his SaaS startup, Chatter.dev, with Molly. (26:48) Finally, Rachel wraps the show with another edition of OK Boomer, featuring Danny Miranda. (38:25)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's segments!
(2:14) Twitter adds podcasting to "Spaces"
(15:08) Babbel - Save up to 60% off your language learning subscription at https://babbel.com/twist
(16:32) Explaining the value of adding podcasting to a consumer service
(25:29) MicroAcquire - Sell your business with no fees at https://try.microacquire.com/twist
(26:48) Chatter.dev Founder Pete Oxenham joins to break down his SaaS business!
(34:18) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(35:25) Producer Rachel joins to tee up OK Boomer with J+M!
(38:25) Danny Miranda joins OK Boomer to talk getting into podcasting, starting from scratch, building successful habits, AirPods' impact on podcasting and more!
Check out Chatter: https://chatter.dev
FOLLOW Danny: https://twitter.com/heydannymiranda
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood
Subscribe to our YouTube to watch all full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkkhmBWfS7pILYIk0izkc3A?sub_confirmation=1
Big show! First up J+M break down two pandemic darlings on two totally different paths: $PTON and $SNOW (2:26). Then, Lon Harris joins to talk about HBO's record breaking House of the Dragon premiere (27:12), MoviePass returning (47:16), and more!
(0:00) J+M tee up today's segments!
(2:26) Peloton earnings breakdown: it's getting grim, so J+M brainstormed on where the company can go from here, stock was down over 20%
(16:26) Odoo - Get your first app free and a $1000 credit at https://odoo.com/twist
(17:53) Snowflake earnings breakdown: massive quarter, stock was up over 20%
(25:37) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(27:12) Lon Harris joins to break down this week's streaming news! First up: HBO's House of the Dragon set a record for most-watched premiere with almost 10M viewers
(39:39) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(40:58) $WBD CEO David Zaslav continues to make cuts
(47:16) MoviePass is making a comeback and Lon gives some streaming picks
First up, J+M break down the news, incl: Student loan forgiveness (2:30), Zuck copying BeReal (20:21), the Twitter whistleblower's allegations (36:32), and a climate company's Series A! (1:04:49) Then, Jason wraps the show with another edition of The Blueprint! (1:16:43)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's segments!
(2:30) Student loan forgiveness
(16:37) Brave - Download today at https://brave.com/twist to browse faster, search privately and so much more
(17:57) "Bailout culture"
(20:21) Instagram copies popular social app BeReal
(26:38) Harmonic - Get $4000 off at https://harmonic.ai/twist
(27:59) Jason explains his "never trust Zuck" take origins, how Apple's approach differs from Meta
(35:37) Visa - Learn more about Visa’s online Small Business Hub at Visa.com/smallbusinesshub
(36:32) Twitter whistleblower implications, comparing it to last year's "Facebook Files"
(1:04:49) Series A: Clarity
(1:16:43) Blueprint Part 7: Should you take on student debt to go to college? Is it worth it?
Follow Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
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Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkkhmBWfS7pILYIk0izkc3A?sub_confirmation=1
J+M are joined by Sunny Madra and Vinny Lingham for another crypto roundtable! They cover the following topics: Shkreli's new web3 project (1:50), distributed computing projects (16:08), ETH merge (38:00), Gensler's comments (44:57), and more!
(0:00) Molly tees up today's roundtable guests!
(1:50) Martin Shkreli's new web3 project
(14:46) Revelo - Get 20% off the first 3 months by mentioning TWIST at https://revelo.io/twist
(16:08) Breaking down other distributed computing projects: Helium, Filecoin, Hivemapper
(27:54) Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub - Apply in 5 minutes, no funding required, sign up at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
(29:17) Understanding inverted incentives in crypto, market depth/liquidity theory
(36:46) UserTesting - Get real human insights from customers, try for free today at https://usertesting.com/twist
(38:00) ETH merge: how risky is it, what impact will the fork have, will it lower gas fees?
(44:57) SEC Chair Gary Gensler's comment re: DeFi protocols and crypto banks
(51:58) Lightning round! Tribe DAO, BendDAO, Sudoswap and lessons learned
Back with a big Monday news show: Jason and Molly recap last week's All-In (2:09), before covering FTX's leaked financials (17:19), Amazon potentially going further into healthcare (40:34), and more M&A in the e-commerce space. (58:55) Then, Molly wraps the show by interviewing LAUNCH portfolio founder Arjun Shokeen, Founder and CEO of Swayed (1:11:27).
(0:00) J+M tee up today's topics!
(2:09) All-In recap, Climate Syndicate, and more
(16:10) Neo.Tax - Get $500 off R&D tax credit fees at https://neo.tax/twist
(17:19) FTX had its 2020 and 2021 audited financial results leaked to CNBC
(28:07) Odoo - Get your first app free and a $1000 credit at https://odoo.com/twist
(29:26) How to frame crypto going forward, what is crypto's main product? Did the SEC miss the boat on crypto regulation?
(39:19) MasterClass - Get 15% off an annual membership at https://masterclass.com/startups
(40:34) Amazon is reportedly bidding to acquire Signify Health
(58:55) M&A: eBay acquires trading card e-commerce platform TCGplayer for $295M
(1:11:27) Molly interviews Swayed Founder and CEO Arjun Shokeen
Sunday show! First up, Jason breaks down how VCs evaluate pre-launch startups (1:54) and startups that are going after a market that doesn't exist yet. (15:21) Then, Molly is joined by Mycocycle CEO and Founder Joanne Rodriguez to talk about developing fungi-powered toxic waste removal and raw material generation! (30:36)
(0:00) Molly intros today's segments!
(1:54) VC Sunday School: How Jason evaluates pre-launch startups
(13:46) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(15:21) How VCs evaluate startups building for markets that don't exist yet
(20:51) Comparing early examples of traction: pre-orders, crowdfunding, LOIs and more
(29:16) Masterworks - Skip the waitlist to invest in fine art using at https://Masterworks.io/twist
(30:36) Mycocycle CEO Joanne Rodriguez joins to talk about fungi-powered toxic waste removal and raw material generation
(38:26) Helpware - Go to https://helpware.com/TWIST to get $1000 off your first invoice
(39:33) Mycocycle's finished product, how they're recycling raw materials, traction so far, future of the business
Disclaimer: Since inception, Masterworks has sold five paintings from the collection. All sales are net of all fees and expenses. The sale of any paintings from the Masterworks collection, and the option to waive fees, is at the sole discretion of Masterworks and paintings may be held in excess of or up to 10 years or longer. Past price performance is no guarantee of future results. Any historical returns, expected appreciation, or probability projections are not guaranteed and may not reflect actual future performance.
Friday variety show! First up, Jason answers your questions on VCs investing in a downturn, winning founder qualities, and more. (1:24) Then, Molly interviews LAUNCH founder Zeb Anderson about his legal startup LegalQ. (16:36) Producer Rachel wraps the show with another edition of OK Boomer featuring Jules Terpak! (26:59)
(0:00) Molly intros the Friday variety show!
(1:24) Ask Jason: Why VCs slow investment pace in a downturn
(7:00) Ask Jason: What qualities make Jason invest in a founder a second time after a failure
(12:29) Jason explains the traction at Uber and Calm when he invested
(15:06) Coda - The All-in-one doc for teams, get a $1,000 credit at https://coda.io/twist
(16:36) Molly interviews LAUNCH Accelerator founder Zeb Anderson of LegalQ about his app connecting legal professionals and clients
(25:34) This podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp - Get 10% off your first month at https://betterhelp.com/twist
(26:59) OK Boomer! Producer Rachel welcomes tech commentator Jules Terpak and talks about the importance of curiosity when building your brand
(37:03) iTrust Capital - Visit https://itrust.capital/twist to create your Crypto IRA today
(38:10) Digital culture, banning TikTok, social media consent, and more
New segment alert! J+M debut "Little Big Things" to highlight a unique new feature from Apple (1:46), before breaking down the company ramping up its ads business and what that means for consumers. (10:49) Then, Lon Harris joins to break down all things streaming. (21:20)
(0:00) J+M intro today's segments!
(1:46) New segment! Little Big Things: Apple News audio stories
(9:42) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(10:49) Apple's potential ads business: great for revenue, potentially bad for consumers
(20:08) Vanta - Get $1,000 off automating your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(21:20) Lon joins and Jason discusses Molly's appearance on the Pivot podcast!
(23:47 More chaos at $WBD: 14% RIF at HBO Max, 30+ titles getting canned off streaming, bad feelings with creators
(37:59) Revelo - Get 20% off the first 3 months by mentioning TWIST at https://revelo.io/twist
(39:20) Digital distribution rights, how Netflix changed the industry and how Warner Bros Discovery might use this recent move as leverage going forward
(43:20) New series premiering with massive budgets: House of the Dragon, Rings of Power; breaking down the math on why these shows cost $20M-$58M per episode
(55:32) Streaming overtakes cable viewership for the first time!
J+M kick off the show by discussing the reaction to Adam Neumann's $350M raise (1:40), before covering Boom Supersonic's new deal with American Airlines (24:59), and a Startup of the Day. (41:55) Jason wraps the show solo for part 6 of The Blueprint, where he covers getting ahead of trends! (48:06)
(0:00) J+M intro today's segments!
(1:40) Thoughts on the reaction to Adam Neumann's $350M raise from a16z, including a NY Post article that Jason was quoted in
(12:45) WorkOS - Go to https://workos.com to learn how to make your app enterprise-ready.
(14:14) Was the negative reaction to the fundraising warranted? What is the counter case?
(24:04) Visa - Learn more about Visa’s online Small Business Hub at Visa.com/smallbusinesshub
(24:59) American Airlines agrees to purchase up to 20 jets from airplane startup Boom Supersonic, J+M do some math on ticket prices
(34:13) Brave - Download today at https://brave.com/twist to browse faster, search privately and so much more
(35:33) Does the world need supersonic passenger jets?
(41:55) Startup of the Day: Goodfellows helps elderly people and young people foster connections
(48:06) The Blueprint Part 6: Jason explains how he gets ahead of trends
Jason's Howard Stern/Spotify blog from 2015: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/howard-sterns-easy-billion-dollar-pay-day-courtesy-app-calacanis
J+M have a big debate over remote work: including covering Apple's return to work policy, Malcolm Gladwell's comments, Jason's WFH playbook, and much more. Then, they cover Meta's new partnership with DoorDash for Facebook Marketplace deliveries, and a Jay Trading update! (1:05:19)
(0:00) J+M tee up today's topics!
(1:57) Apple will be sending all corporate employees back to the office in September + J+M debate Malcolm Gladwell's comments on remote work
(12:45) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(14:04) Hypocrisy of the return to work, understanding the impasse, "overemployed" and "quiet quitting" movements
(26:28) Notion - Sign up for FREE at https://notion.com/twist
(27:49) What would tech unions look like?
(38:40) Bubbles - Get your point across with unlimited screen and video recordings for free at https://usebubbles.com/twist
(39:57) Shifting power dynamics in modern work, Jason's advice to startup founders for managing remote employees, UBI thoughts, Jason's WFH requirements
(1:05:19) Meta partners with DoorDash to deliver Facebook Marketplace items, Jay Trading updates
Molly is back for a HUGE news days! Adam Neumann has raised $350M from a16z for his new startup Flow (2:14), and his main investor, Marc Andreessen, got into some hot water over housing policy hypocrisy! (22:05)
(0:00) Molly is back! J+M intro today's topics!
(2:14) Jason and Molly catch up Molly's vacation and the craziness of the past week
(12:36) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
(13:56) Adam Neumann's new residential real estate company Flow has raised $350M from a16z at a valuation over $1B!
(20:34) TripActions - Go to https://tripactions.com/twist and get a $500 Amazon gift card after making your first travel booking OR paying off your first $1000 of liquid spend
(22:05) Marc Andreessen's blog explaining a16z's Flow investment, Jason and Molly go deep on potential business plans for Flow and why a16z made this bet
(34:37) Odoo - Get your first app free and a $1000 credit at https://odoo.com/twist
(35:56) Marc Andreessen's housing hypocrisy
(53:35) Jason reads slides from the leaked Flow deck JOKE, another a16z portfolio founder in a similar market as Flow chimed in on Twitter
First up, Molly and Jason break down self-destructive founder and VC traits (1:37). Then, Molly interviews Air Protein CEO Dr. Lisa Dyson on how they turn carbon dioxide into protein and how they are innovating in the booming alternative meat space! (21:42)
(0:00) Jason intros the Sunday show!
(1:37) VC Sunday School: Self-destructive founder tendencies
(9:15) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(10:45) Self-destructive investor tendencies
(15:13) How to do damage control if you take money from a disruptive investor
(20:35) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(21:42) Molly intros Dr. Lisa Dyson who explains Air Protein's founding story, mission, and the science behind it
(30:35) Helpware - Go to https://helpware.com/TWIST to get $1000 off your first invoice
(31:51) How Air Protein differs from traditional meat
(36:33) Air Meat's fundraising history and creation process
Howard Lindzon joins to talk about the different mindsets and skillsets of public and private market investors and breaks down what the future of the blockchain might look like. (1:39) Then, Producer Rachel is back with another OK Boomer segment, interviewing Ben Smith of Goal House NYC! (1:20:52)
(0:00) Jason tees up today's segments!
(1:39) Howard Lindzon joins and breaks down the differences between public and private investing mindsets
(12:21) UserTesting - Get real human insights from customers, try for free today at https://usertesting.com/twist
(13:38) How liquidity impacts public/private investing, why Howard is bullish on $NFLX over $DIS
(24:05) Liquid IV - Get 25% off at https://liquidiv.com using promo code TWIST
(25:17) Remote work's impact on less experienced employees, how the blockchain will impact startups in the future
(36:11) FanDuel Sportsbook - Sign up with promo code TWIST to place a $1000 risk-free bet at https://sportsbook.fanduel.com
(37:20) Potential game-changing NFT and DAO use cases
(48:27) Howard reviews Jason's Jay Trading portfolio
(59:53) Semantics, media, next generation of the internet, politicizing the Fed
(1:11:02) Jason tees up OK Boomer with Producer Rachel
(1:20:52) OK Boomer: Rachel interviews Ben Smith of Goal House NYC
FanDuel Disclaimer:
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Lon Harris joins the show for a full streaming industry breakdown, including $DIS earnings, $WBD drama, streaming strategies, and more! (1:59) Then, Molly interviews Ephemeral CEO Jeff Liu on building a high-quality temporary tattoo solution. (1:09:00)
(0:00) Jason tees up today's segments!
(1:59) Jason welcome Lon Harris to talk misaligned media incentives and Trump coverage
(12:45) MicroAcquire - Sell your business with no fees at https://try.microacquire.com/twist
(14:05) Hulu's new film Prey is its largest streaming debut to date
(27:18) Vanta - Get $1,000 off automating your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(28:29 Why the Predator franchise is valuable IP for Disney, how streaming platforms should handle "auteurs"
(35:41) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(37:14) $DIS earnings, how Disney's streaming platforms overtook Netflix in terms of subscribers
(46:52 Breaking down $WBD and how it should handle various IP, streaming residuals upheaval
(51:25) Disney vs Netflix BOTE Math, Ezra Miller situation, strategies for Zaslav to take advantage of $WBD IP
(1:09:00) Molly interviews Ephemeral CEO Jeff Liu
Sunny Madra and Vinny Lingham join Jason for a fully loaded crypto market breakdown (1:40). Topics covered include: Tornado Cash being blacklisted by the US Treasury Dept, Coinbase Q2 earnings, smart crypto regulation, fixing early-stage crypto governance, and more! Jason wraps the show with Part 5 of The Blueprint: Generalists vs. Specialists. (1:21:44)
(0:00) Jason intros today's segments: crypto roundtable and The Blueprint!
(1:40) Current state of the crypto market after the massive pullback
(14:31) Brave - Download today at https://brave.com/twist to browse faster, search privately and so much more
(15:33 Tornado Cash blacklisted by the US Treasury Dept: what is it, what it means for "frozen" crypto assets & more
(27:12) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(28:36) How large-scale spam attacks and hacks will change consumer behavior in the still-early crypto industry
(37:37) Visa - Learn more about Visa’s online Small Business Hub at Visa.com/smallbusinesshub
(38:32) How should crypto be regulated? Should the US create a new agency dedicated to digital assets? Should there be a new set of rules for crypto?
(48:39) Did Coinbase let customers down? $COIN Q2 earnings, responsibilities to customers, what Coinbase's platform might look like if altcoins are regulated as securities
(55:22) Pseudonymous and anonymous impact on high-profile crypto projects, how to fix early-stage crypto governance
(1:04:12 Interesting consumer-facing crypto projects
(1:21:44) The Blueprint Part 5: Generalists vs. Specialists
Acquired's Ben Gilbert and David Rosenthal join the show to discuss how they think about public market investments (1:43), VC token sales (27:25), a VC market overview (45:40), the Vision Fund's impact on Silicon Valley (1:00:33), and Amazon's core pillars! (1:13:21)
(0:00) Jason intros today's guests and topics: Crossover Pod with Acquired!
(1:43) Private markets overview, Jay Trading, Ben's investment thesis for TSMC and Shopify
(13:44) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(14:52) Jason makes two live Jay Trades, better solutions for employee stock options
(26:14) Dell - Apply for Dell for Startups and get an additional 10% off Dell Latitude products at https://dell.com/twist
(27:25) Crypto regulation, VC token sales
(39:33) Zapier - Try for free today at https://zapier.com/TWIST
(41:02) The burden of going public, final ideas on digital asset regulation
(45:40) Major takeaways from PitchBook's Q2 US VC Monitor: exit value collapse, deal volume down, seed not impacted as much, signs of life in the early-stage
(1:00:33) Reflecting on Masa's precarious position and the impact that SoftBank's Vision Fund has had on the VC industry
(1:13:21) Ranking the most impressive pillars of Amazon's business: AWS, Prime, marketplace, advertising
Jason breaks down SoftBank's Vision Fund losing $21B+ last quarter and reflects on how founders should approach raising capital from megafunds. (2:11) Then, Jason reflects on lessons learned from the tough DTC space (27:05) and gives a quick Jay Trading update! (36:17). To wrap, NutriSense CEO Alex Skryl joins J+M to break down the benefits of continuous glucose monitoring! (47:37)
(0:00) Jason tees up today's solo news + founder interview!
(2:11) Jason breaks down SoftBank's Vision Fund losing ~$21B+ last quarter and analyzes some clips from Masayoshi Son's investor presentation
(11:31) Microsoft for Startups Hub - Apply in 5 minutes, no funding required, sign up at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
(12:54) Jason disagrees with Masa's new strategy and direction and explains how founders should approach raising capital by megafunds like the Vision Fund and differences between how Uber and WeWork deployed SoftBank capital
(22:46) Assure - To get 20% off your first Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) visit https://Assure.co/twist
(24:06) Reviewing the biggest hits and misses from Vision Fund I
(27:05) Lessons learned from DTC shutdowns, how VCs deploy capital in a downturn
(34:45) Prometheus - Go to Prometheusalts.com or download it on the App Store and use the access code TWIST to sign up
(36:17) Jay Trading update: $DIS, $AMZN, $WBD, $SFIX
(47:37) Nutrisense CEO Alex Skryl joins to talk glucose monitoring benefits, biohacking, and more!
First up on VC Sunday School, J+M cover the stigma around investing in first-time founders: Is it a myth? What are the pros and cons? What really matters when evaluating a founder? (3:01) Then, Molly interviews Jay Koh of The Lightsmith Group to break down the Inflation Reduction Act's $369B climate/energy allocation. (29:08)
(0:00) Jason and Molly tee up today's segments!
(3:01) why is there a bias against investing in first-time founders?
(15:04) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(16:21) Most important factors to startup success
(21:42 Jason and Molly tee up Molly's climate interview which is focused on the Inflation Reduction Act's $369B climate/energy carve-out
(27:53) MasterClass - Get 15% off an annual membership at https://masterclass.com/startups
(29:08) Jay Koh of The Lightsmith Group joins to break down the $369B earmarked for climate/energy in the Inflation Reduction Act
(36:39) Odoo - Get your first app free and a $1000 credit at https://odoo.com/twist
(37:58) What will the $369B do for the climate VC industry?
(48:48) What will this investment do for America's standing as a global climate tech leader?
Solo Jason news day! First up, Jason breaks down Coinbase's performance as a public company and its recent partnership with BlackRock (2:18), then he covers Amazon acquiring Roomba-maker iRobot (18:08), before wrapping the news with a Jay Trading update. (24:53) Producer Rachel wraps the show by interviewing Minted's Marcus Milione for OK Boomer! (52:35)
(0:00) Jason intros today's topics!
(2:18) Jason analyzes $COIN's performance as a public company and its volatile price fluctuations
(14:52) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(15:59) BlackRock partnering with Coinbase to manage its institutional crypto trading business
(18:08) $AMZN acquires Roomba-maker iRobot for $1.7B
(23:38) Helpware - Go to https://helpware.com/TWIST to get $1000 off your first invoice
(24:53) Jason debuts jaytrading.com and gives his reasons for doing it
(30:58) $WBD down ~17% after a bad earnings report
(36:53) Bubbles - Get unlimited screen and video recordings for free at https://usebubbles.com/twist
(38:10) Jason tells a quick story about meeting Bill Clinton & talks to Producer Rachel about her first year of interviews on OK Boomer
(52:35) Rachel interviews Marcus Milione on brand building, monetizing a passion, and more
Lon Harris joins the show to break down the chaotic shakeup going on at Warners Bros. Discovery, what's happening with HBO Max, potential new roadmaps for the DCEU, and more. (2:46) Then, J+M break down a new intimate social app called Locket raising $12.5M (44:02) and Lina Khan taking action against Meta. (51:39)
(0:00) J+M intro today's topics!
(2:46) Lon Harris joins to break down what is going on at Warner Bros. Discovery
(14:05) Grammarly - Sign up for a free and get 20% Grammarly Premium at https://grammarly.com/TWIST
(15:22) Is streaming subscription revenue a viable business compared to big box office hauls? Is $WBD making a terrible move re: creative relationships?
(24:26) Indochino - Get $50 off any purchase of $399 or more by using code TWIST at checkout https://www.indochino.com
(25:48) Discovery vs. HBO branding, Roku/Paramount Plus subscriber counts
(38:11) Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub - Apply in 5 minutes, no funding required, sign up at https://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
(39:34) Lon's crypto queen series update
(44:02) Social app Locket raised a $12.5M early-stage round of funding
(51:39) Lina Khan sues Meta over a ~$400M VR acquisition and tries to change the antitrust precedent
BIG show! First up, our co-hosts break down why YC cut its summer cohort size by 40% (2:13), Robinhood letting go 23% of its employees (12:40), Michael Saylor out as MicroStrategy CEO (32:09), and Airbnb earnings. (42:07) Then, Jason is back with another edition of The Blueprint, where he covers the benefits of having a bias for action! (48:52)
(0:00) Jason and Molly intro today's topics!
(2:13) Y Combinator cuts its Summer 2022 batch size by 40%: what does this mean for the early-stage market?
(11:35) iTrust Capital - Visit https://itrust.capital/twist to create your Crypto IRA today
(12:40) Robinhood terminates 23% of employees: RIF vs layoff vs furlough explanation
(27:42) Brave - Download today at https://brave.com/twist to browse faster, search privately and so much more
(29:02) Jason gives a Jay Trading recap and lays out his reasons for doing it
(32:09) Michael Saylor steps down as MicroStrategy CEO
(39:14) Visa - Learn more about Visa’s online Small Business Hub at Visa.com/smallbusinesshub
(40:10) Jason's predictions for MicroStrategy's direction
(42:07) $ABNB earnings, comparing $ABNB and $UBER p/s, $COIN and $HOOD p/s
(48:52) The Blueprint Part 4: The Benefits of Having a Bias for Action
(54:12) How bias for action relates to other cognitive biases
(1:02:50) How founders can have a bias for action: Product velocity
J+M break down Uber and Pinterest's Q2 earnings (2:42), and Jason makes a Jay Trade live on air (18:51). Then, The Lanby CEO Chloe Harrouche joins to break down approaching primary care from a customer-centric perspective. (49:40)
(0:00) Jason and Molly tee up today's show! Big news day + a great early-stage founder interview
(2:42) $UBER Q2 earnings: doubled revenue y/y, FCF positive, rides business is back to pre-pandemic levels
(13:12) Vanta - Get $1,000 off automating your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(14:24) Does Airbnb have similar pricing controls as Uber?
(18:51) Jason does a LIVE Jay Trade and explains his investment thesis! ***NOT investment advice
(27:28) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(28:45) $PINS Q2, Should public CEOs be able to retain super-voting shares?
(38:01) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(39:08) Jason proposes a perfect merger target for Pinterest
(45:44) Jason and Molly tee up the interview with The Lanby CEO Chloe Harrouche
(49:40) Chloe breaks down approaching healthcare from a customer-centric POV, pricing model, unit economics, and more
(1:06:09) Onboarding doctors, scaling the business, opaque pricing in healthcare
First up, Jason and Molly cover TikTok's recent patents that indicate it might be going after Spotify (2:23). Then, the duo breaks down a recent WSJ report about VCs giving conflicting advice to founders. (18:05) After the news, J+M are joined by Redfin CEO Glenn Kelman and Divvy Homes CEO Adena Hefets for an in-depth break down of the current US housing market. (33:36)
WSJ article: https://www.wsj.com/articles/silicon-valley-lurches-between-deep-cuts-and-bold-spending-11659268801
(0:00) Jason and Molly tee up today's topics and guests!
(2:23) TikTok might be going after Spotify's music streaming business with "TikTok Music"
(16:45) Policygenius - Go to https://policygenius.com to get a free life insurance quote
(18:04) Jason and Molly break down a WSJ report about conflicting advice that VCs are giving to founders re: approaching the current downturn; Jason debuts his "Cash vs. Profitability Matrix"
(32:04) Notion - Get $250 off by using code TWIST at https://notion.so
(33:36) Redfin CEO Glenn Kelman and Divvy Homes CEO Adena Hefets join and break down their businesses before getting into how a 2022 housing downturn might be different from 2008
(41:36) Prometheus - Go to Prometheusalts.com or download it on the App Store and use the access code TWIST to sign up
(43:09) Institutional buyers' impact on housing supply, pandemic migration impact on local inflation, new construction outlook
(1:08:36) Rental market outlook, commercial real estate's grim projections
First up on the Sunday show, Jason breaks down the different levels of diligence at different company stages for VC Sunday School (2:02). Then, Fion Technologies CEO Sudarshan Sridharan joins to talk helping firefighters fight wildfires with mapping technology. (21:31)
(0:00) Jason tees up today's Sunday edition of This Week in Startups!
(2:02) Molly recaps her first half year of investing, then asks Jason about diligence at different stages of investing in different verticals
(10:23) UserTesting - Get real human insights from customers, try for free today at https://usertesting.com/twist
(11:40) Jason on great investments coming out of "prepared minds", the importance of testing and trying
(19:57) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(21:31) Molly welcomes Fion Technologies CEO Sudarshan Sridharan to discuss helping wildfire fighting with software and his founding story
(32:36) Brave - Download today at https://brave.com/twist to browse faster, search privately and so much more
(33:56) Sudarshan explains how the Fion app helps firefighters, its pricing model, and more
(41:06) The state of wildfires in the US, why Sudarshan is building Fion
Jason is BACK and he's ready to Jay Trade! Jason and Molly wrap up big tech earnings week with a major deep dive on $AMZN's impressive quarter (1:53), $AAPL's slowing revenue growth/growing subscriber base (26:04), and the lack of faith in $META's big bet. (31:44) Producer Rachel wraps the show with another great edition of OK Boomer, featuring popular YouTube and investor Nate O'Brien! (40:18)
(0:00) Jason is BACK for a huge news day!
(1:53) $AMZN Q2 was highlighted by two insane business segments: AWS and advertising
(18:20) iTrust Capital - Visit https://itrust.capital/twist to create your Crypto IRA today
(19:24) Continued breakdown of $AMZN's Q2: Amazon Prime and retail; Jason makes another Jay Trade and gives his investment thesis for $AMZN
(24:43) MicroAcquire - Sell your business with no fees at https://try.microacquire.com/twist
(26:04) $AAPL earnings: slowing growth, but still putting up huge numbers, Apple's 800M+ paid subscribers
(31:44) Antitrust action against Meta, Jason gives his take on Meta's all-in bet on the metaverse
(39:01) Odoo - Get your first app free and a $1000 credit at https://odoo.com/twist
(40:18) OK Boomer: Investor & YouTuber Nate O'Brien joins to talk growing his YouTube to 1M+ subscribers, his journey to investing, and more
Today's show is a CLASSIC TWiST founder interview. Anchor Co-Founder Mike Mignano joins to tell Anchor's founding story (1:40), break down what it's like getting acquired by Spotify (15:32), and talk about how RSS standards might be stunting innovation in the podcasting space. (33:17)
0:00 Jason intros today's guest: Anchor Co-Founder Mike Mignano
1:40 Mike explains why he started Anchor, the original inspiration and first versions, finding PMF, building the nuts and bolts of a great podcast publishing experience
14:23 Helpware - Go to https://helpware.com/TWIST to get $1000 off your first invoice
15:32 Why Anchor sold to Spotify, the Series B term sheet they were considering at the time of acquisition, getting courted by Spotify CEO Daniel Ek, Anchor's first check story
24:44 LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedin.com/twist
25:58 Why Apple hasn't innovated in podcasting, paid podcasts vs. advertising
31:59 Babbel - Save up to 60% off your language learning subscription at https://babbel.com/twist
33:17 Why Mike wrote his recent article: “The Standards Innovation Paradox”, evolving standards to increase innovation, the Substack example
Read Mike's article:
https://mignano.medium.com/the-standards-innovation-paradox-e14cab521391
BIG variety show today!
Jason kicks off the show with Part 3 of "The Blueprint" series (1:43), then, CNBC's Deirdre Bosa joins to break down $GOOG and $MSFT earnings, $SHOP layoffs, and $COIN's SEC probe (17:23), and we wrap with Producer Rachel joining to break down the Kylie/Kim vs. Instagram feud! (45:42)
(0:00) Molly tees up today's variety show: The Blueprint Part 3, big tech earnings with Deirdre Bosa, and Kylie/Kim vs. Instagram with Producer Rachel!
(1:43) The Blueprint Part 3: Jason explains how to build and supercharge your network
(16:27) Visa - Learn more about Visa’s online Small Business Hub at Visa.com/smallbusinesshub
(17:23) CNBC's Deirdre Bosa joins to talk big tech earnings
(19:21) $MSFT earnings for fiscal Q4 and FY2022
(25:18) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(26:45) $GOOG Q2 earnings
(33:05) $SHOP lays off 10% of employees (~1000), Tobi Lutke's blog post, Q2 earnings
(37:45) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(39:00) $COIN faces new SEC probe regarding whether or not they allowed investors to trade unregulated securities
(45:42) Molly brings on Producer Rachel to break down the recent backlash against Instagram from celebrities and TikTok's superiority regarding creator monetization
Today, we have two interviews with founders innovating in the US prescription drug market to bring prices down for consumers.
First up, Molly talks with Alex Oshmyansky, CEO of The Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company, about building a "parallel supply chain", the importance of transparency, and a breakdown of the "financial engineering" in the industry. (3:22)
Then, she talks to Capital RX CEO AJ Loiacono for a full breakdown on PBMs (pharmacy benefit managers) and the opaque pharmaceutical supply chain. (40:35)
(0:00) Molly intros today's two interviews
(3:22) Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drugs Company CEO and Founder Alex Oshmyansky on operating a startup while still being a practicing doctor and Cost Plug Drugs' business model
(11:21) Harmonic - Get $4000 off at https://harmonic.ai/twist
(12:43) Alex explains the state of the US drug space, why they're trying to build a "parallel supply chain", the importance of transparency, and the origin story of the company
(23:44) Prometheus - Go to https://prometheusalts.com or download it on the App Store and use the access code TWIST to sign up
(25:11) Drug production, hot button drug issues
(32:16) Alex explains the "financial engineering" and profiteering in the prescription drug space
(39:15) BairesDev - Go to https://baires.dev/twist and get $10,000 off when you sign your first contract
(40:35) Molly intros the next guest: Capital RX CEO AJ Loiacono, who explains the convoluted and opaque pharmaceutical supply chain
(54:30) Understanding PBMs (pharmacy benefit managers) and the broader healthcare industry
(1:04:09) AJ gets into his background, starting Capital RX, and how it fits into the ecosystem
We have a big news show with a very special guest!
TechCrunch's Alex Wilhelm fills in for Jason to break down the news with Molly.
They cover Netflix cracking down on password sharing (2:12), Snap's rough Q2 earnings (6:45), Coinbase's alleged insider trading (21:28), the 3AC Bloomberg interview (36:37), and more!
(0:00) Molly tees up today's news with Alex Wilhelm, who is filling in for Jason!
(2:12) Molly and Alex share thoughts on Netflix cutting password sharing in some Central/South American countries
(6:45) $SNAP Q2 earnings: stock drops ~40% on slowing revenue growth and growing losses
(11:15) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist
(12:27) Jason's almost-Jay Trade, $SNAP's debt situation, most interesting implications from the week ahead of big tech earnings
(20:12) Odoo - Get your first app free and a $1000 credit at https://odoo.com/twist
(21:28) $COIN's alleged insider trading, Jay Carney getting hired by Airbnb away from Amazon
(35:23) Vanta - Get $1,000 off automating your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(36:37) Reacting to the 3AC founders' interview with Bloomberg, crypto contagion due to intermingling
(45:09) Man who lost ~8000+ Bitcoin in a landfill is trying to raise capital to uncover the hard drive
For today's VC Sunday School, Jason talks about saying "no" to founders (1:20), and Molly asks about board meeting etiquette (20:12). Then, for This Week in Climate Startups, Molly speaks with Michael Luciani of Climate Capital (37:18).
(0:00) Jason intros today’s show
(1:20) VCSS: Saying “no” to founders
(9:20) Brave - Download today at https://brave.com/twist to browse faster, search privately and so much more
(11:01) Some VCs give a “no” to gauge a founder’s tenacity
(19:08) iTrust Capital - Visit https://itrust.capital/twist to create your Crypto IRA today
(20:12) Board meeting etiquette
(36:02) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(37:18) TWiCS: Michael Luciani of Climate Capital
(1:02:40) Outro
Today, Jason and Molly speak with Ben Narasin of Tenacity VC about raising a new venture capital fund in the down market (1:30). Then, for this week's segment of OK Boomer, Producer Rachel sits down with Natalie Barbu of Rella (1:00:33).
(0:00) Jason intros today’s show!
(1:30) Jason and Molly speak with Ben Narasin of Tenacity VC
(11:45) Masterworks - Skip the waitlist to invest in art using promo code TWIST at https://Masterworks.io/twist
(13:07) How do you make a decision to sell a percent of your position?
(26:59) Bubbles - Get your point across with unlimited screen and video recordings for free at https://usebubbles.com/twist
(29:06) Valuations, 2022
(39:39) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(40:47) Crypto is a speculator’s game
(45:25) Are these tokens securities?
(59:19) Producer Rachel tees up this week’s OK Boomer
(1:00:33) OKB: Natalie Barbu of Rella 1:25:16 Outro + Plugs
First up, Jason and Molly break down Amazon acquiring One Medical for $3.9B — what is the long-term strategy here (2:44)? And you know it’s Thursday, so you know we had to have Lon Harris on the show (16:36). We break down the Snyder Cut bot craziness (24:38), and Netflix’s path forward (37:25). There might even be a Jay Trade involved!
(0:00) Jason and Molly tee up the show!
(2:44) Amazon acquired One Medical for $3.9B
(14:20) Prometheus - Go to Prometheusalts.com or download it on the App Store and use the access code TWIST to sign up
(16:36) Lon Harris joins for This Week in Streaming: “Cryptoqueen” pilot
(22:31) Intercom - Get advanced Intercom features and Early Stage Academy at a 95% discount bit.ly/earlystage22
(24:38) Rolling Stone reported The Snyder Cut was fueled by a bot army
(32:43) Microsoft for Startups Hub - Apply in 5 minutes, no funding required, sign up at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
(34:49) Thoughts on Amazon’s streaming service
(37:25) Jay Trading? Thoughts on Netflix’s path forward
(46:30) Wrapping up and picking a new show
(50:30) Outro
Yesterday, Netflix released its Q2 earnings, and this prompted Jason to make some Jay Trades (2:53). Then, we have our second installment of "The Blueprint," where Jason breaks down when you should quit your job (45:14). Finally, we wrap with our Startup of the Day: BeReal (1:06:48).
(0:00) Jason and Molly tee up today’s show!
(2:53) Jay Trading: Jason does some Jay Trading in relation to the Netflix Q2 results
(10:27) BairesDev - Go to https://www.baires.dev/twist
(11:50) Netflix reported Q2 earnings yesterday, they were meh
(14:38) What’s the problem at Netflix?
(24:27) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(25:42) Prediction: Disney+ will exceed Netflix
(28:01) Jay Trading: Disney
(30:20) What would make you buy Netflix?
(37:00) Two other ideas for Netflix
(44:18) Visa - Learn more about Visa’s online Small Business Hub at Visa.com/smallbusinesshub.
(45:14) The Blueprint E2: when should you quit your job?
(1:06:48) Startup of the Day: BeReal
(1:17:39) Coming up this week
Molly had a big board meeting today, so we had our guy Zach Coelius join for another version of Ask an Angel (1:32). Zach and Jason share their thoughts on remote work (4:40), the downturn (22:10), and then they answer audience questions (41:22). It’s a solid episode for founders and investors!
(0:00) Jason intro’s today’s Ask an Angel episode with Zach Coelius
(1:32) Ask an Angel with Zach Coelius
(4:40) Zach’s thoughts on remote work
(13:19) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://Squarespace.com/TWIST
(14:37) Managing a company post-COVID
(17:00) Who shines in the remote work era?
(20:51) Notion - Get $250 off by using code TWIST at https://notion.so
(22:10) The downturn: will people cancel or review their SaaS bills?
(26:09) How many of Zach’s founders have prepped for the downturn?
(30:50) Odoo - Get your first app free and a $1000 credit at https://odoo.com/twist
(32:02) Don’t try to invest in pre-product market fit companies when you’re first starting out (unless you know the founder’s awesome)
(41:22) Q&A: How do you think about competition in the same market in the early stages?
(46:43) What are the top buzzwords you’re staying away from as investors right now?
(59:00) Would you invest in SF?
(1:04:00) How much dilution after seed rounds turns into a red flag?
(1:06:14) Should the equity grant occur during financings or the board meeting?
(1:09:15) What does Zach focus on in terms of diligence?
(1:19:30) As a founder, when should you provide pro rata to angels and when not?
(1:25:10) Have you ever advised a founder to leave the CEO role?
(1:32:29) How long do you think the down market is going to be and what’s your strategy?
Today, Amazon CEO Andy Jassy is celebrating his one-year anniversary, and the NYT published an interesting profile that has a lot to do with regulatory scrutiny (3:01). Then we cover the boom of remote work incentive programs all over the US to attract remote tech workers (27:00). And, we get into an awesome new company called Phaidra in our Series A segment… some former DeepMind engineers started an awesome machine learning company (40:16). And we wrap with a great story about retail investors who have the same thesis as Jason (47:51).
(0:00) Jason and Molly tee up today’s show
(3:01) NYT published a profile of Amazon CEO Andy Jassy on his one-year anniversary of becoming CEO, and it had some interesting tidbits
(12:28) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://linkedIn.com/twist 13:44 More on the legislation discussed in the NYT article
(21:37) Microsoft for Startups Hub - Apply in 5 minutes, no funding required, sign up at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
(22:54) Bezos is running for president (prediction)
(27:00) WSJ reported 71 cities and towns in the US are now offering remote work incentive programs
(37:19) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(38:33) Producer Nick chimes in on remote workers in Manhattan
(40:16) Series A: Phaidra s a startup selling machine learning software that regulates temperatures at power plants and industrial factories
(47:51) WSJ reported some amateur investors see the declining state of the stock market as a chance to double down
(56:08) Over the weekend Jason tweeted, “Terrify your investors in 5 words.” These were the best replies
On today's episode of VC Sunday School, Molly asks Jason about taking the leap on valuation (2:10) and best practices for strategic retreats (11:41). Then, Molly speaks with Meiling Gao and David Lu of Clarity Movement, to talk about their hardware for measuring air quality (33:25).
(0:00) Jason and Molly intro today’s show!
(2:10) VCSS: Taking the leap on valuation
(10:28) Embroker - Get an extra 10% off insurance for your business at https://Embroker.com/twist
(11:41) VCSS: strategic retreats
(27:44) Microacquire - Sell your business with no fees at https://try.microacquire.com/twist
(29:01) VCSS Bonus Round: Does age matter in founders?
(32:15) Molly tees up This Week in Climate Startups
(33:25) TWiCS: David Lu + Meiling Gao of Clarity Movement
(38:00) Brave - download Brave today at https://brave.com/twist to browse faster, search privately and so much more.
(39:17) TWiCS: More on Clarity Movement’s air pollution measurement hardware
(57:49) Outro + Plugs
Today, we cover the WSJ reporting on Amazon thinking of exiting the private-label business entirely (2:26). Then, Jason talks to FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr about banning TikTok in the US (15:23). And of course, we wrap with another episode of OK Boomer from Producer Rachel (56:17).
Check out BuzzFeed's report on TikTok: https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/emilybakerwhite/tiktok-tapes-us-user-data-china-bytedance-access
(0:00) Jason and Molly tee up today’s show
(2:26) WSJ spoke to anonymous sources who told them Amazon is talking about exiting the private-label business entirely
(14:09) Vanta - Get $1,000 off automating your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(15:23) Jason speaks with FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr about potentially banning TikTok in the US
(21:56) Prometheus - Go to Prometheusalts.com or download it on the App Store and use the access code TWIST to sign up!
(24:14) Reciprocity with a potential TikTok ban
(31:55) UserTesting - Get real human insights from customers, try for free today at https://usertesting.com/twist
(33:06) Should the military ban on TikTok mean it should be banned by Google and Apple?
(44:40) Concerns over DJI drones
(56:17) Producer Rachel tees up this week’s OK Boomer segment
(1:01:10) OKB: Producer Rachel speaks with Eric Button, co-founder of Contrast
(1:20:42) Outro + Plugs
Today, Jason makes his first investment in our new Jay Trading segment (which is not investing advice), and Jason and Molly break it down (3:22). Then, we do a little segment called “Series A & M&A” (24:40)! We also cover Stripe’s 409A valuation (37:52). And of course, we have to cover the Netflix + Microsoft partnership (45:50). Finally, we wrap with Peloton outsourcing their hardware manufacturing (57:00).
(0:00) Jason and Molly tee up today’s show!
(3:22) Jay Trading: Bill Gurley bought ~1M shares of Stitch Fix yesterday for a total of $5.4M and the stock popped as much as 15% on the news
(14:17) Liquid I.V. - Feel better faster. Get 25% off at https://liquid-iv.com using promo code TWIST
(15:30) Talking revenue and profit
(23:18) Wealthfront - Get your first $5,000 managed for free, for life at https://wealthfront.com/TWIST
(24:40) Series A and M&A: You.com
(35:59) Harmonic - Get $4000 off at harmonic.ai/twist
(37:52) WSJ reports that Stripe just cut its internal valuation by 28%
(45:50) Netflix named Microsoft as its global advertising technology and sales partner
(57:00) Peloton is going to stop making its own bikes and tread machines, opting to outsource all manufacturing to Taiwan
(1:06:00) M&A: Battery Ventures announced a $3.8 billion raise
(1:15:07) Outro + Plugs
Today we kick off our new series, "The Blueprint." Jason gives practical advice on how to brand yourself (1:33). Then, Jason sits down with Stanford professor and author Jeffrey Pfeffer to talk about his new book, "7 Rules of Power: Surprising--but True--Advice on How to Get Things Done and Advance Your Career" (14:36).
(0:00) Jason tees up today’s show!
(1:33) The Blueprint E1: branding yourself
(13:39) Visa. Learn more about Visa’s online Small Business Hub at Visa.com/smallbusinesshub.
(14:36) Jeffrey Pfeffer speaks about his book “7 rules of Power”
(28:26) LinkedIn Marketing - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups
(29:56) Break the rules: Why are people so uncomfortable breaking the rules?
(37:41) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist
(38:58) Show up in a powerful fashion: body language
(41:45) Building a brand
(50:12) Use your power
(53:53) Trump using his power
(56:46) Once you have power, what you did will be forgiven forgotten or both
(1:01:42) Q&A: how do introverts exert power?
(1:02:46) Best networking tips
First, we break down the 3AC situation where the founders were reportedly MIA for about 12 hours (1:52). It’s a complex situation, and we try and make sense of it. Then, we cover Matt Taibbi’s deep-dive article on Circle (8:10). Jason also gives his thoughts on a recent Twitter thread about how to succeed as a low-level startup employee (33:27). And we wrap with a little M&A story from Spotify (40:50)!
(0:00) Jason tees up today’s topics!
(1:52) Bloomberg reported that liquidators in charge of handling Three Arrow Capitals bankruptcy have NOT been able to locate the founders
(8:10) Investigative reporter Matt Taibbi spent time researching the Crypto Crash, and warns against investing in Circle’s stablecoin USDC
(11:51) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(13:08) Red flags Taibbi found
(24:11) Embroker - Get an extra 10% off insurance for your business at https://Embroker.com/twist
(25:25) Making sense of the crypto crash
(32:16) Assure - To get 20% off your first Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) visit https://Assure.co/twist
(33:27) Zach Weinberg had an interesting thread about how to stand out as a low or mid-level startup employee
(40:50) Spotify has acquired a Wordle-like daily game for your ears called: Heardle!
(46:56) Previewing the week ahead
(53:17) Outro + Plugs!
Today we talk about the Elon Musk & Twitter deal-or-no-deal (2:14). Then we get into two big pieces of Uber news today: first, over a hundred thousand leaked documents about Uber’s aggressive expansion efforts back in the early days (20:47), and second, present-day Uber under Dara is testing out geo-located ads (33:18). Finally, we’ve also got some insider dirt from Apple’s autonomous car efforts (49:20).
(0:00) Jason and Molly intro today’s show
(2:14) Elon Musk calls off the Twitter deal
(12:49) Dell For Startups - Apply for Dell for Startups and get an additional 10% off of all Dell Latitude products at http://dell.com/twist
(13:58) Is Twitter a niche product?
(19:28) This podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp - Get 10% off your first month at https://betterhelp.com/twist
(20:47) The Guardian obtained 124,000 leaked internal documents from Uber’s global expansion phase under Travis
(32:04) Thorne - Personalized, science-back wellness. Get 10% off your first order at thorne.com/u/TWIST
(33:18) Uber is testing its ad business
(49:20) Apple Car project has faced repeated setbacks
(58:39) Outro + Plugs
For today's VC Sunday School, Jason asks Molly what she's learned in her first six months as a venture capitalist (1:59). Then, on This Week in Climate Startups, Molly speaks with siblings Steven and Zora Chung of ReJoule about EV battery recycling (18:52).
(0:00) Jason and Molly intro the show
(1:59) VCSS: Molly’s first 6 months as an investor recap
(14:06) Bubbles - Get your point across with unlimited screen and video recordings for free at https://usebubbles.com/twist
(15:24) Toss to TWiCS
(18:52) TWiCS: Zora and Steven Chung, co-founders of ReJoule
(22:51) Brave - Download Brave today at http://brave.com/twist to browse faster, search privately and so much more
(24:08) Explaining the ReJoule technology like we’re 10
(30:03) iTrust Capital - Visit https://itrust.capital/twist to create your Crypto IRA today
(31:06) What’s ReJoule’s business model?
(44:18) Outro + Plugs
Today, Jason sits down with Frost Giant CEO Tim Morten to discuss the gaming business models, Esports, and more (1:50). Then, on this week's OK Boomer segment, Producer Rachel speaks with Richard Mensah, co-founder of Salley, about being an international founder (1:09:45).
(0:00) Jason and Molly introduce today’s show
(1:50) Jason speaks with Production Director & CEO of Frost Giant, Tim Morten
(11:15) PolicyGenius - Head to https://www.policygenius.com to get your free life insurance quotes and see how much you could save
(12:25) Running a game studio as a startup
(21:54) Vanta - Get $1,000 off automating your SOC 2 at https://vanta.com/twist
(23:09) Business model changes in the gaming industry
(30:40) Intercom - Get advanced Intercom features and Early Stage Academy at a 95% discount https://www.intercom.com/early-stage
(32:56) Raising money as a gaming startup
(1:09:45) Producer Rachel tees up this week’s OK Boomer
(1:12:37) OKB: Richard Mensah, Co-Founder of Salley, on being an international founder
(1:36:51) Outro + Plugs
First, we cover some breaking news: Theranos ex-president Sunny Balwani has been found guilty of fraud (2:27). Then we dive into crypto: those responsible for the lack of crypto regulation in the US might also have significant crypto investments themselves, and the US is currently trying to change that (13:42). Then a big class-action lawsuit hits Solana and takes aim at VCs (23:09). But it's not all bad news, we cover the Turkish government claiming it just discovered almost 700M metric tons of rare earth materials (39:29). And finally, our startup of the day is a job board for warehouse workers (49:27)!
(0:00) Jason and Molly tee up today’s topics!
(2:27) Sunny Balwani found guilty of fraud
(12:26) Microsoft for Startups Hub - Apply in 5 minutes, no funding required, sign up at http://aka.ms/thisweekinstartups
(13:42) US officials that invest in crypto can’t work on crypto-related policies and regulation that could affect the value of their assets
(21:42) Masterworks - Skip the waitlist to invest in art using promo code TWIST at https://Masterworks.io/twist
(23:09) Key players in the Solana ecosystem are being accused of illegally profiting off the blockchain’s token SOL
(36:05) Crypto firm Uprise lost 99% of customer funds trying to short LUNA tokens during the Terra/Luna collapse last month
(38:12) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist
(39:29) The Turkish government is claiming it just discovered almost 700M metric tons of rare earth materials
(49:27) SotD: Traba has a job board that helps entry-level workers find shifts at fulfillment centers and event venues
(53:41) Outro + Plugs!
Molly is out today, but don’t worry- we still have crypto news to cover. Crypto firm Voyager Digital filed for bankruptcy (2:14), and crypto loan company Celsius paid some debts (10:43). Finally, Jason takes some questions in today’s Ask Jason segment (25:35)!
Voyager Bankruptcy Filing: https://cases.stretto.com/public/x193/11753/PLEADINGS/1175307062280000000036.pdf
(0:00) Jason introduces today's show!
(2:14) Crypto Update: Voyager Digital filed Chapter 11 bankruptcy late last night
(9:31) Embroker - Get an extra 10% off insurance for your business at https://Embroker.com/twist
(10:43) Celsius just unlocked 2000 “wrapped Bitcoin” (~$40M worth) by paying down ~$183M of debt to another crypto lender
(24:21) Thorne - Personalized, science-back wellness. Get 10% off your first order at thorne.com/u/TWIST.
(25:35) Ask Jason: Jason answers your questions
(26:27) Would you ever apply to Shark Tank as a judge or create your own version with the besties?
(29:23) Trying to bootstrap as long as possible, but when is it ok to quit your day job?
(34:16) Indochino - Get $50 off any purchase of $399 or more by using code TWIST at checkout https://www.indochino.com
(35:34) When a previous investment asks for more money, how do you decide whether or not to double down?
(41:56) I’m about to raise a seed round… should growth be the target or generating positive cash flow?
(45:04) What current FAANG CEOs would you like to interview? What insights would you look for?
(48:00) What are “pre” and “post” money?
(48:43) Do you entertain pro-rata multiples?
(58:31) How is the electric bike effort going?
(1:04:00) What Gen Z startups have excited you from the OK Boomer segment or your staff?
(1:11:31) Outro + Plugs
On today's show, Molly and Jason catch up after the long weekend (0:00) before breaking down how the new "Minions" movie broke a box office record by using TikTok, catchy hooks, and viral marketing (5:19). They also cover TikTok dropping plans to expand its ecommerce platform into the US and Europe (29:52), before covering the "Chips Act" stalemate and discussing how we should reframe semiconductor manufacturing and energy independence as national defense issues (35:50).
Links referenced in the show: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnhum.2021.578644/full https://www.bloomberg.com/opinion/articles/2022-07-04/chipmakers-and-us-congress-are-playing-a-stupid-game-of-chicken
For today's VC Sunday School, Molly asks Jason about what makes a venture scale business (2:20). Then, for This Week in Climate Startups, Molly sits down with Matt Duesterberg, co-founder of OhmConnect (19:38).
First, we cover an update from the BlockFi CEO denying that FTX is buying them for $25N (2:33), and we have a couple more crypto quick hits (5:51) before we touch on Sequoia's largest investments being down 70% (34:01). Klarna is raising way down at a $6B valuation (45:23), Zoom is looking to expand beyond video conferencing, (54:50), and the FCC approved Starlink to supply internet to moving vehicles (57:40). Finally, Rachel speaks with co-founder and CEO of Stages, Jared Downing, for this week's OK Boomer (1:08:23).
First, we talk about Meta’s new Facebook Groups overhaul that looks like Discord (2:35). Then we touch on Sequoia raising over 2 billion for its US venture and growth funds (20:31) and FTX acquiring BlockFi for $25M, 99% below their last private valuation (32:08). For our We Live in the Future, the MLB is looking to automate home plate umpires by 2024 (52:17). Finally, it appears Subtstack is making some cuts after saying it wouldn’t (1:04:48).
Today, Jason is joined by the hosts of “What are your thoughts?” Downtown Josh Brown (CEO of Ritholtz Wealth Management) and Michael Batnick (Managing Partner at Ritholtz Wealth Management). They discuss the Knicks (1:22), Podcasting (14:25), markets (26:20), Disney (37:52), and more. Finally, Jason takes some audience questions (44:50).
First, we dig into the crypto contagion where FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried is stepping in to backstop crypto lenders (2:56). Then, we check in on the billions of dollars sitting in SPACs- remember those (39:27)? We do a quick hit on the venture market drying up in Q2 (54:27) before we get into our We Live in the Future: a mockup of a SkyCruise luxury airliner that uses nuclear power and never lands (1:16:36).
Today, we bring on Kim Clark, an attorney at Legal Voice, who reached out to Molly after listening to our shows last week that mentioned the impacts of surveillance on healthcare privacy, notably abortion (2:13). And in related news, today’s Startup of the day is Stardust, an end-to-end encrypted Period Tracking App (39:13). Then, we cover a non-Roe v. Wade story: Zendesk will be acquired by an investor group in an all-cash transaction valuing it at around $10.2B (42:45).
For today's VC Sunday School, Molly asks Jason about co-investing with other VC firms (3:11). Then for This Week in Climate Startups, Molly sits down with REGENT co-founder Billy Thalheimer to talk about the ins and outs of their electric sea gliders (29:46).
Today, Jason sits down with the anonymous account Praying For Exits — they discuss everything going on in markets, crypto, startup valuations post-crash, and even what was behind the All in podcast controversy (3:09). Then, Producer Rachel sits down with Anisha Sunkerneni of Cyphr VC to talk about NFT NYC and navigating tech events (1:13:30).
Today we bring on Lon Harris to discuss the Obi-Wan Kenobi finale (2:23), then we do a quick hit on the FDA taking action against Juul (42:14). Finally, Molly chats with AJ Loiacono from Capital RX, who is laser-focused on increasing transparency in prescription drug pricing (55:26).
Today we kick it off with a discussion of BuzzFeed’s reporting on TikTok, and we debate if there are real risks to worry about here (2:04). Then, we discuss Amazon forecasting it will run out of workers in some of the cities it operates in (37:16). Finally, we talk about some of the ways we are reducing our consumption (43:55).
There’s been some crazy news in Crypto, so we bring on Vinny Lingham, an early investor in Solana, who runs a startup that encrypts identity information on the blockchain called Civic. We dig into NFT NYC (8:24), the fiasco on Solend protocol (22:29), and how South Korean prosecutors have instituted a flight ban for employees while they investigate the $40 billion collapse (45:54). Finally, we talk about how, despite all of this, the Solana NFT Marketplace Magic Eden still raised $130 million at a $1.6 billion valuation (51:04).
For this week's VC Sunday School, Molly asks Jason about when to take a meeting with a founder (2:20). Then for This Week in Climate Startups, Molly speaks with the CEO and Founder of Hyfé Foods, Michelle Ruiz (16:45). Finally, as we're off tomorrow, we wrap with a couple of Juneteenth book recommendations (44:17).
Today, we recap the Warriors' finals win (2:50) with some potential takeaways for founders (14:00). Next, Jason speaks with Jesse Powell: founder, and CEO of crypto exchange Kraken, and they discuss the state of crypto and the recent hit piece the NYT published on him (48:06). For this week's OK Boomer segment, Producer Rachel sits down with Alexander Olesen, co-founder, and CEO of Babylon Micro-Farms (2:07:41).
It’s Thursday, so we talk all about streaming with our guy Lon Harris! Spoiler alert as we dive into Obi-Wan Kenobi E5 (1:53) and Star Trek E4-5 (34:48). We cover Disney losing cricket streaming rights in India (41:44) and Apple acquiring MLS soccer rights (50:48). Finally, we hit on an internal memo that shows Facebook plans to be more like TikTok (57:17).
First, we’ll dig into the creator economy: Youtube shorts almost has as many users as TikTok (3:06), and Twitch is changing how they pay creators (24:00). We quickly hit on some breaking news as The Federal Reserve approved its steepest interest rate increase since 1994 and signaled it would continue lifting rates this year at the most rapid pace in decades (38:20). The crypto contagion continues, so we’ll give an update (41:50) and discuss the full context of MicroStrategy CEO Michael Saylor’s Bitcoin comments in 2021 (54:13). And we can’t leave without talking about Aliens. China thinks it has a sign (1:16:24).
Today, we kick off the episode with Coinbase’s several hundred-person layoffs (3:23) and the EU’s crypto regulation in progress (23:15). We cover Netflix talking with Roku to help run its planned ad-supported tier (35:18). Our Startup of the Day is Catholic Prayer and mediation app Hallow, partnered with Mark Wahlberg for promotion (41:03). We’ll also showcase Prey, a company that helps protect laptops from theft, which our producer Justin should’ve used in his recent burglary (47:57).
On today's show, Jason and Molly cover crypto losing $200B from its total market cap this weekend (14:51) and Binance pausing withdrawals of Bitcoin for almost 4 hours this morning (29:53). We also quickly talk about a Google engineer claiming Google's AI chat bot has become sentient (38:15). For our We Live in the Future, we cover Amazon announcing drone delivery for later this year (48:52). Finally, we wrap on our Startup of the Day: Magic Spoon, a high-protein cereal maker (53:57).
For today’s VC Sunday school, Molly asks Jason about valuation- valuing startups (1:44). Then for This Week in Climate Startups, Molly sits down with Ryan Shearman, CEO of Aether, to talk about how Aether makes diamonds using carbon extracted from the atmosphere (37:22).
Today, Lon Harris joins for This Week in Streaming and we talk about Obi-Wan Kenobi Episode 4 (1:49), then we cover some Disney news as they fire their head of General Entertainment Content, Peter Rice (43:05), and enter a bidding war to keep their rights to Indian Cricket (48:30). We wrap with a segment of OK Boomer: this week Producer Rachel sits down with Capri Wheaton, founder, and CEO of Dressd, a peer-to-peer clothing rental service (1:06:37).
Today, Deirdre Bosa from CNBC joins Molly to talk about Twitter’s plans to comply with Musk’s demands for data (1:28), Apple being its own bank for Apple Pay Later (17:15), and Facebook's parent Meta changing its ticker to META (32:19). To wrap up, Jason and Molly interview Kalshi co-founder and CEO Tarek Mansour, where they talk about Kalshi building the first CFTC regulated predictions market (39:11).
Today, we talk about Flexport Founder Ryan Petersen bringing on Amazon’s Dave Clark to be CEO (2:56). Then, we discuss Bird laying off almost a quarter of their team (17:32), and we talk about Twitter working on a bring-your-own algorithm feature (28:24). Our Startup of the Day is Multiverse, a startup building a pipeline of apprenticeships as a college alternative (37:47). We cover Citadel getting into crypto (47:25) and SEC Chair Gary Gensler hinting there might be some overhauls coming to payment for order flow (54:33). We end with a recap of Jason on Megyn Kelly’s show (1:00:10) and Kara Swisher leaving NYT for Vox (1:17:07).
BuzzFeed is tanking- we talk about what it means for its employees and the company (2:07). Next, we discuss Uber Eats coming for GoldBelly (23:51), then we cover the EU mandating that USB-C ports be standard by 2024 (36:17). We close out the show with our Startup of the Day in the sports space (41:21) and a We Live in the Future in the ear transplant space (49:42).
Jason talks with independent candidate for California Governor Michael Shellenberger on what he wants to improve in California (2:57). Then, we cover Apple's 2022 WWDC (48:40). We cover the $2.35B of illicit funds laundered through Binance from hacks, investment frauds, and drug deals (1:27:25), and we touch on Elon Musk accusing Twitter of withholding bot information (1:37:24). Finally, we cover Beijing wrapping up the Didi investigation (1:41:11).
First, in VC Sunday School Jason answers Molly’s questions about markups and markdowns (1:35), then in This Week in Climate startups, Molly talks with Coral Vita’s Sam Teicher about Coral Regeneration (33:37).
Today we have a Warriors Game Recap (2:01), we discuss the new Apple emojis (11:29), and then we dive into more layoffs news: Coinbase and Loom rescinding job offers (26:34). Jason and Molly give tips on how to not get laid off (37:55), and then Producer Rachel closes out the episode with an OK Boomer segment with Skillbank founder and CEO Mehak Vohra (1:07:08).
Today, we dive into Sheryl Sandberg leaving Meta (2:14), then Lon Harris joins for This Week in Streaming where we cover Kenobi episodes 1-3 (12:36). We talk about Disney’s response to racism (26:54), where the Star Wars sequels went wrong (36:00), and the Depp v. Heard trial coverage (51:00).
First, we talk about Deutsche Bank getting raided by law enforcement for “greenwashing” its ESG funds (2:59), then we touch on Fidelity marking down its investments in Stripe and Reddit (17:00), then we discuss companies going back to the office over concerns about worker productivity (19:35), Jason explains how he’s collaborating with everyone on the team to increase productivity as we go into this recession (26:00). To end, we have an interview with DroneUp CEO Tom Walker where we discuss their current rollout with Walmart, the regulations that need to get sorted out, and how DroneUp is approaching safety (50:00).
Today, Acquired’s David Rosenthal joins us. We discuss their recent Climate Pledge Arena Show (1:37), the new fundraising environment, and what the best founders and VC firms are doing (21:29), and we dig into the New York Times' latest hit piece on Glossier CEO Emily Weiss (37:40). We wrap with an optimistic look at what Australian billionaire and Atlassian CEO Mike Cannon-Brookes is doing to take on Australia's biggest polluter (1:00:59).
In today's episode, Jason and Molly cover Bolt's layoffs (12:11), Walmart's drone deliveries (17:02), Lunar Outpost's $12M seed (32:31), a16z's $4.5B crypto raise (44:07), and Seth Green's Bored Ape heist (54:40). Producer Rachel sits down with Jordan Singer, founder of Diagram, for this week's OK Boomer (1:03:54).
Today's episode is a Molly solo interview with Bonobos founder and author of "Burn Rate," Andy Dunn (2:30). We go deep on entrepreneurship and mental health, talk about how founders are up to 7x more likely to suffer from bipolar disorders than the average person, how Andy's bipolar disorder impacted building his business (22:09), and advice for founders navigating mental health struggles (34:31).
We discuss the tragedy at a Texas elementary school and gun violence in America (2:25). Can tech play a role in decreasing child deaths (21:14)? Then we cover mental health startup Cerebral getting probed by the DOJ (52:55). Finally, we touch on a breaking story: Jack Dorsey steps down from Twitter’s board (1:13:25).
First, we break down SNAP dropping over 40% after lowering earnings estimates (4:43). Then we cover some layoffs at instant-delivery startup Gorillas AND BNPL player Klarna (29:18). Next, we talk about Adam and Rebekah Neumann co-founding a tokenized crypto carbon marketplace called Flowcarbon (1:00:02). We wrap on Coinbase’s new Ray Dalio-inspired employee rating system (1:10:36).
Molly and Jason are BACK from Miami to break down all the most interesting stories and content from the All-In Summit! (2:13) Then, they cover Argo AI, an AV company that just launched autonomous test cars in Miami and Austin (36:50). Finally, they close by discussing a recent Bloomberg report on how Amazon is looking to sublease 10M+ square feet of warehouse space... negative signal, or no big deal? (45:23)
In this episode of This Week in Climate Startups, Molly sits down with Fleur Heyns of Proof of Impact about how to measure, verify, and analyze ESG & impact data. We discuss the current pain points for investors (11:20), how blockchains can interact with real-world assets (21:15), ESG regulation (34:16) and more!
First, Jason and Molly reflect on their time in previous tech recessions (03:06). Then, Privateer Space CEO Alex Fielding joins to discuss solving the space junk problem (18:02), the difficulties of mapping debris (33:25), and more. Then, Producer Rachel hosts an OK Boomer episode where she talks with the other Gen Z employees that work for Jason about how they got their jobs and what they've learned at Launch (1:00:21).
Molly Wood sits down with Melissa Hanna, CEO and Co-Founder of Mahmee, a care network for parents (01:44), they discuss the impetus for Melissa launching the company (12:34), the challenges of bringing the product to market (22:08), how she built the network and more (37:29)!
Molly speaks with Carolyn Childers, CEO of Chief, a women’s professional network (01:26) about how their community stretches across digital and physical spaces, accelerating women's executive careers, growing with word-of-mouth as marketing (30:08), their $100M raise (33:22), augmenting Linkedin (39:18) and more.
First we cover the news of Ex-Meta crypto chief David Marcus launching a Bitcoin payments startup backed by a16z & Paradigm (02:05). Then, Jack Mallers, the CEO of Strike joins (8:13) to discuss the lightning network & the history of payment networks (12:10), why companies use the Strike API (24:42), why he thinks Visa and Mastercard can't compete (31:24), Strike unlocking Bitcoin’s potential (34:40) and more!
Jason and Molly chat with Jason Lemkin of SaaStr (01:44). They discuss: advice for new VCs (16:14), the future of SaaS investing (27:37), playing offense as investors (35:50), secondaries and more.
In VC Sunday School we discuss Pitchbook's data on women-led VC funds (03:16), how much money they've raised and how the industry is evolving. Then, Jason explains why new fund managers often have more success with individual LPs than institutional LPs (27:12). In This Week in Climate Startups Molly speaks with Anukampa Freedom Gupta-Fonner of Springeats.com, a zero-waste grocery service (38:31).
First Jason and Molly cover FTX CEO SBF buying 7.6% of $HOOD (1:57), SoftBank’s $13B loss (8:29), Twitter’s exec layoffs (14:55) & give a deal update (21:50). Then Producer Rachel chats with Nicole Ruiz is an investor at Compound VC, a thesis-driven, research-centric investment firm (35:34). Together, they talk about her untraditional path to VC, their investment in Pear Bio, the importance of being a skilled researcher, and more.
Deirdre Bosa from CNBC’s Tech Check joins to talk about a wide variety of topics (2:20), including her interview with Sundar Pichai, journalism (12:54), the crashing public markets, crypto (44:58), Twitter iterations (1:06:12) and so much more!
First Jason and Molly open by digging into some details for the All-In Summit (02:12). Then they discuss Airbnb's search options (08:13), Airbnb's new aircover insurance feature (21:34) and Coinbase's disclosure that account funds aren't safe in a Coinbase bankruptcy (35:04). Then, Molly is joined by Ashley Carman to talk about Facebook dropping podcasts (54:46).
First, crypto reporter Bennett Tomlin joins to break down the the massive decline of algorithmic stablecoin Terra USD (UST) and how the Terra-Luna ecosystem works (09:00). Then we recap five tech stocks that are down at least 70% off mid-COVID peaks Coinbase, Shopify, Twilio, Zoom and Block (44:44). We briefly touch of Elon’s comments about reducing permanent bans on Twitter (1:05:48). Wrap with Peloton’s painful earnings (1:22:53).
First, we discuss Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi's company-wide email rallying Uber behind a cash-generating vision to court investors (6:30). Then, we cover Apple's machine learning director departing because of the company's work from home policies (43:22) and the White House's negotiation with ISPs for low-cost high-speed internet to pair with the Affordable Connectivity Program (57:00).
Sunday double-header. First, Jason discusses why some VC firms allow side investing and others explicitly forbid it (01:50). Then, in a This Week in Climate Startups segment Molly interviews Nan Ransohoff, Head of Climate at Stripe (12:27) about their $900M+ plan to fund carbon sequestration (31:18).
First Jason and Molly break down Twitter's new community annotation feature Birdwatch (1:40), they go through screenshots of the beta version and weigh the possibility for the Birdwatch to bridge the moderation gap. Then Producer Rachel interviews Patrick McDonnell of Flapjack (44:04) about working in a hacker house in Miami, optimizing restaurant menus and his experience making the Boring Company flamethrower.
First we chat with Lon Harris from Inside Streaming about the latest Netflix news, strategy, exciting upcoming shows and the proliferation of ads on streaming services (2:23). Then we cover Plaid CEO insinuating that a Stripe PM probed their company for information before making a copycat (39:40), Cameo's round of layoffs that included 4 execs (53:08) and the latest on Elon Musk's Twitter acquisition (1:06:25).
Every Monday - Thursday, Jason and Molly record live at https://youtube.com/thisweekin - it has bonus content that doesn't make it into the edited version of the show. This is a sample of the LIVE version recorded today. If you like this, subscribe, sign up for notifications and join us live in the YouTube chat.
First Jason and Molly discuss the way tech is impacted by the leaked Supreme Court Roe vs. Wade decision (2:20). Then they break down the differences between a Lyft and Uber’s Q1 (52:18). To wrap, we discuss AirBnB’s strong quarter and upcoming big announcement (1:03:48).
First, we speak with The Information’s Sylvia Varnham O’Regan about Meta's plan to double its VR headsets by 2024 (02:06), VR adoption (13:14), and more. We wrap by discussing the SEC’s Crypto Assets and Cyber Unit adding 20 new agents (39:52).
First, we discuss Bolt’s declining customer base and struggles with The Information’s Malique Morris (02:50). In addition, we discuss Fast, Amazon's "Buy with Prime," ShopPay (25:35) and all the other developments in online checkout. Next, we cover a massive spike in Ethereum gas prices from Yuga Labs and Solana's bot attack (55:12). We wrap with our Startup of the Day: Gravity Sketch, a 3D design platform (1:11:35).
Sunday double-header. First, in VC Sunday School Jason discusses competing companies in the portfolio, when it's ok, when it's not and how to manage issues in good faith (01:52). Then, in This Week in Climate Startups, Molly interviews Energy Impact Partners' Shayle Kann (19:42) about "Deep Decarbonization," the carbon management industry (33:37) and more.
First, we cover 5 news stories: Amazon Q1 earnings (02:01), Apple's fiscal Q2 earnings (06:33), China's new tune for tech (12:06), AirBnB's long-term remote commitment (16:55) and Snap's new Pixy camera drone (24:48). Then Producer Rachel interviews Landon Campbell of inTheir20s and inside.com about investing, landing big guests like Steve Wozniak for his podcast and what he's learned about how great people spent their 20s (29:47).
First up, Lon Harris joins to break down the finales of WeCrashed (1:52) and Severance (34:50), then The Verge's Corin Faife joins to discuss his research on the sharp changes in Twitter follower counts for right-leaning and left-leaning accounts. (1:07:39)
All news. First we break down the SEC's allegations from one of the craziest financial stories since Bernie Madoff, Archegos Capital (4:20). Then cover: Bolt being sued by its largest customer (28:47), Google and Microsoft's Q1 2022 earnings for the first quarter (42:45) and Apple selling iPhone spare parts and repair tools (1:02:10). We wrap with GM's EV corvette announcement (1:07:20).
All news. We break down, Jack chiming in on Twitter’s sale to Elon Musk and the employee reactions (2:21). Then, we talk about an NFT project where Doctor influencers on TikTok are selling access to medical advice (40:02). To wrap, we cover Hopin’s fundraising at a large valuation, its founder's $195M secondary sale and more (52:27).
First, we cover Twitter's Board accepting Elon Musk's take-private deal (1:41). Then, we cover a new EU social media regulation that will increase algorithm transparency called the Digital Services Act (41:34). Our startup of the day is Pipedream Labs which is making a Hyperloop for package delivery (53:37).
First, in a VC Sunday School segment, Jason explains his approach to deal memos (01:42) and what parts of a memo are most important. Then, in a This Week in Climate Startups segment, Molly chats with Alex Wright-Gladstein of Sphere (17:06) about offering climate friendly retirement plan options (21:43), financial incentives and more.
First Jason and Molly do four rapid news stories: Elon securing funding for the Twitter buyout (03:20), Bill Ackman’s $430M loss on Netflix (11:48), The Boring Company's $675M raise (18:47), Amazon’s $1B Industrial Innovation fund (28:56). Then, Producer Rachel interviews Dwarkesh Patel of The Lunar Society Podcast (37:12), he's a recent computer science graduate and one of the 42 people Jeff Bezos follows on Twitter!
First, Jason and Molly cover Tesla’s strong Q1 and gems from the earnings call (2:22), then Lon Harris joins (31:32) to discuss WeCrashed episode 7 (34:17), Severance episodes 1-3 (58:46), Netflix’s rough Q1 and quality drop off (1:13:35) and CNN+ shutting down (1:26:40).
First, we break down Netflix's earnings and discuss where Netflix’s content strategy might have gone wrong (2:46). Then, Jason pitches Jared Kushner’s leaked PE firm fundraising deck (35:15). We wrap with a discussion of Warner Bros. Discovery possibly killing CNN+ (56:27) and Just Eat Takeaway announcing they are looking into selling Grubhub, 10 months after finalizing a $7B acquisition (1:13:21)!
First, Jack is getting candid about Twitter’s board dysfunction (2:14). Then, we cover Facebook’s internet infrastructure development projects in Africa (24:31) and Better.com's new round of layoffs (33:53). Our startup of the day is Regent, which is making a regional seaplane (46:51). We wrap with a discussion of Zendesk considering a sale (1:01:34) and Telsa's third act (1:04:57).
All-news show. First, we go over PitchBook’s Q1 Venture Monitor report where VC fundraising is high, but portfolio exits are down (3:08). Then, we discuss how the incoming CNN CEO Chris Licht and Chris Sacca are both taking a Twitter break (33:35), and touch on Alex Jones' InfoWars filing for bankruptcy (44:33). Our startup of the day is new social app BeReal (53:55).
Friday variety show! First, The Verge’s Alex Heath joins to talk about two big stories he recently broke (2:32): Facebook’s plans for AR glasses and Twitter’s internal reaction to Elon’s takeover bid (38:04). Molly sits down with LAUNCH Accelerator founder Aleks Smechov whose company Wordcab specifically focuses on speech-to-text AI summaries (1:04:54). We wrap with an edition of OK Boomer where Producer Rachel talks to writer and marketer Rachel Cantor(1:18:51)!
All news show. First, Jason and Molly debrief after their Worldcoin interview (2:37). Next, they discuss Elon Musk's take-private offer for Twitter at $43B (08:50), the highlights from Elon's TED interview (15:33), and more (24:53). In a We Live in the Future segment, we react to a viral video of police pulling over a self-driving Cruise car (58:38).
First, we cover Meta's announcement that they will be taking 47.5% creator fees on their Horizons platform (2:17) and A16Z’s Crypto lead Chris Dixon ranking number one on the Forbes Midas List. Then, Jason and Molly chat with Worldcoin CEO Alex Blania to talk about the crypto project he launched with OpenAI CEO Sam Altman (11:08). Worldcoin is scanning people’s irises with custom-made hardware and aspires to reach over 1 billion people (23:21). Alex addresses privacy concerns, scaling challenges (32:45) and more.
First we discuss Shopify planning 10-to-1 stock split & increasing CEO/Founder Tobi Luke’s control from 34% to 40% (1:42). Then, the Atlantic's Derek Thompson joins to discuss his piece “Why American Teens Are So Sad” (25:59), including the impacts of new-parenting styles (33:38), social media (44:10) and infinite news.
All news show. First, we discuss Twitter CEO Parag Agrawal announcing that Elon has reversed his decision to join Twitter's board (04:10) and the NYT's Editor telling reporters to stop tweeting so much in an internal memo (31:29). Then, we discuss Ryan Breslow's latest series of threads, including one claiming that Instacart’s CEO was shadow-fired by Sequoia (44:35).
Another Sunday edition of This Week in Startups! In VC Sunday School, Jason answers a question about investing in down rounds (1:54)from "Noti Gang" member Bob Gee. Then, Molly has a great interview with Jay Koh (12:16), an investor at The Lightsmith Group about how he invests in the climate landscape (20:41), cautionary tales from the first climate investing wave (32:13), and more.
Jason talks about how he sees the startup landscape developing, running remote teams and more on This Week in Startups Australia with Mark Pesce.
Check out TWISTA https://twistartupsaus.com/
Subscribe to TWISTA on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/twista-this-week-in-startups-australia/id951368363
First, Jason chats with Alex Campbell of Rose Technology, a data analytics tool and marketplace that helps organizations more clearly understand macro trends (1:28). Alex is a former trader for Ray Dalio’s Bridgewater Associates and shares some incredible insights on the global macro environment across Chinese real estate (10:45), investment rates, Bitcoin, Tether, historical financial crises (43:36) and more. Then, for another edition of "OK Boomer," Producer Rachel Chats with Gaby Goldberg (1:08:45) from TCG's Crypto investment arm. They talk about resources to get started in crypto (1:28:52) and why Gaby invests at the intersection of consumer and crypto.
Charts referenced by Alex: https://bit.ly/twistchartsrose
First, Ben Gilbert and David Rosenthal from Acquired join Jason to talk portfolio construction (13:41), Roelof Botha succeeding Doug Leone at Sequoia (30:58), and to debate the takeaway from Fast's demise (52:22). Then Lon Harris from Inside Streaming joins to discuss the final two episodes of The Dropout (1:24:16)!
We kick off our crypto series with Dune Analytics CEO and Founder Frederik Haga about crypto on-chain analytics (37:23). But first, Jason covers Uber’s piloting long-distance travel bookings in the UK (01:44), Twitter’s edit button announcement (07:34), Open AI’s new Dall-E 2 product (15:34), and does a quick CNN Plus review (26:30)!
Antonio Garcia Martinez (Chaos Monkeys, The Pull Request) and Zach Coelius (Investor, Coelius Capital) join to discuss a wide range of news topics including Antonio's trip to Ukraine, the one-click checkout company Fast closing down, Elon Musk joining Twitter's board, Apple taking on Facebook in ads (and how it will impact the battle for AR/VR), crypto regulation and more!
First, Jason and Molly discuss Elon buying a 9.2% stake in Twitter (01:50). Then, Dave Samuel of Freestyle VC joins (23:18) for a discussion on early stage investing. Freestyle invested early in startups including Airtable, Patreon and Intercom. We talk about how fund size dictates strategy, how to give feedback to founders (especially when it's a no) and more.
Sunday double-header! In the opening VC Sunday School segment, Jason discusses deal flow (1:43), you will learn: 1. Inbound vs. outbound deal flow 2. Tactics VCs use to streamline their deal flow 3. Jason's philosophy on responding to founders - Your process is my opportunity
Then, Molly chats with Jason Jacobs of My Climate Journey about scaling climate tech investing, inspiring people to solve climate problems and the tangible value of community (21:27).
First Jason and Molly discuss instant delivery company GoPuff and 1-click checkout company Fast making layoffs (2:22). Then, Bradley Tusk of Tusk Ventures joins to discuss Uber’s Taxi strategy in NYC, sports betting and tech regulation (40:06). Then in our Ok Boomer segment Rachel talks to Akash Raju, co-founder of Glimpse, brands pay Glimpse a subscription fee for the products to be featured in short-term rentals (1:36:47).
Lon Harris joins us for This Week in Streaming to break down WeCrashed episode 4 AND The Dropout episode 6 (1:54). Then, we have David Rodolitz, the CEO and Co-Founder of FlyFish Club, which is NYC’s first NFT restaurant (45:20).
First up, Taylor Lorenz joins to talk about her newest scoop for the Washington Post: Facebook hired a lobbying firm to battle TikTok (2:18)! Then, we discuss the SEC considering cracking down on SPACs (39:40), lastly we cover Fast, a 500-person one-click checkout startup, reportedly generating less than $1M in revenue (1:01:14).
First we explain the $625M hack of Axie Infinity’s Ronin Bridge (1:34), then we discuss the engineers at Twilio who allegedly insider traded (17:30). Next we discuss Robinhood extending its trading window by four hours a day (29:50) and wrap with our startup of the day is Subject, a company providing high school courses for credit online (37:39).
All news show. First, we recap the Oscars, including "The Slap" and Apple winning Best Picture (02:17). Then, we discuss $32B crypto derivate exchange FTX not having investors on its Board of Directors (42:45), Apple's reported hardware subscription (01:02:12) and Jason's Hot Tub story (01:09:57).
Sunday Double-header! First, in VC Sunday School, Jason explains non-dilutive funding's impact on startups (2:18). Then, Molly interviews Continuum Ag Founder Mitchell Hora. His company helps farmers analyze their soil and create a roadmap to improve it via a holistic approach known as regenerative agriculture (21:33).
Another Friday variety show! First up, Jason and Molly break down the 16-year old hacking phenom who was allegedly behind the recent hacks at Microsoft, Nvidia and Okta, and might have just been caught (1:13). Then, the duo covers Molly's induction into LIBSYN's Podcasting Hall of Fame (6:46) and reminisces on the early days of podcasting including their first podcast together over 16 years ago (11:19). Finally, Producer Rachel is back with another edition of OK Boomer, this time with Miami Hack Week founder Ja’dan Johnson (20:19).
Lon Harris joins Molly and Jason to talk WeCrashed, The Dropout and Super Pumped! First, they play a round of "Boff, Marry, Kill" between the three shows (1:16), before breaking down the first three episodes of WeCrashed (16:15) and the two lead performances (24:25). They finish with a quick chat on The Dropout and examine the potential of a "tech cinematic universe" (34:15).
Jason and Molly take on another Five in Five! Five stories in (a little over) five minutes each: Katie Haun's record-breaking $1.5B debut web3 fund (2:50), Yuga Labs raising $450M at a $4B valuation (12:42), Apple's potential BNPL play (25:23), Worldcoin's $100M raise and privacy concerns (29:59) and Nothing's new iPhone competitor (40:13). Then, Molly talks to ChroniFI Founder & CEO Ben Miller on building a consumer software product that helps people plan for financial independence. (48:59)
Tuesday news day! Jason and Molly break down the following stories: Apple's "new" creator tools, and brainstorming on how they could dominate podcasting again (2:23), Jeff Bezos' letter to shareholders from 2000, when Amazon's share price was down ~80% from its dot-com bubble peak (16:02), understanding search funds and why elite MBA grads are raising them (38:23). Finally, they wrap with a WLiTF segment about the FDNY purchasing a couple of Boston Dynamics "robodogs" to help with search and rescue missions. (47:15)
Monday news! Jason and Molly have some big stories to discuss: Sequoia's new "catalyst" program, called Arc (2:37), SEC considering mandating climate disclosures from public companies (19:21), another Startup of the Day (33:28), and they wrap by covering some interesting ongoings at Disney regarding its new CEO and Bob Iger (41:13).
Sunday Double-header! First, in VC Sunday School, Jason discusses and defends his pro rata strategy (1:26). Then, Molly interviews ClimateCheck founder Cal Inman. His company analyzes and risk-rates real estate based on expected changes to the world’s climate (14:43)!
First, Jason and Molly rip through the news (1:44). They cover looming layoffs at two Chinese tech giants (2:31), Google getting back into the AR glasses race with a new acquisition (7:27), chaos in the instant delivery space (13:15), and Yuga Labs launching $APE coin, a BAYC token. (24:58) Then, Producer Rachel interviews Smirk founder Preston Attebery on mobile gaming, the future of social gaming, and more! (33:00)
We chat with film expert, podcaster, and Inside.com writer Lon Harris to talk about tech's latest streaming series The Dropout and Super Pumped! After that conversation, Molly sits down with LAUNCH founder Nick McHenry for a quick interview about his startup OneShop (1:08:00).
We wrap up Angel Season 6 on First Time Funds with Pharrell Williams-signed rocker turned investor D.A. Wallach of TimeBio Ventures (32:23). But first, we do 4 rapid-fire news topics: Spotify spent ~$307M on FC Barcelona naming rights (2:56), AMC acquired a 22% stake in gold miner (10:29), Ex-Disney CEO Bob Iger joins the NFT avatar company Genies’ Board (16:14) and we break down the anatomy of two alleged NFT grifts (22:35).
First, we discuss a new Layer 1 blockchain called Aptos, valued at $1B in a recent round led by a16z (2:42). Then discuss MetaMask’s parent Consensys raising $450M at a $7B valuation (39:47). Our startup of the day is Mojo, which is building a stock market-like product to “bet on athletes” (51:35). Next, we do a post-mortem for our "shutdown of the day," Zero Grocery, a grocery delivery company that closed down this month after announcing raising $12M a month ago (59:06). To wrap, Jason chats with JJ Foster, a listener who did some show notes for us (01:11:05).
It's an all-news show. We discuss Blue Origin selecting Pete Davidson to go space (2:47), Clearview AI offering their facial recognition services to the Ukrainian government (24:58), the NYT launching a Telegram channel and semiconductor slowdowns forcing Ford to ship Explorers without rear AC controls (44:00).
Sunday double-header. First, Jason and Molly discuss the impact of large funds on the startup ecosystem, how fund size influences firm strategy and why big funds often seed smaller funds (2:21). For the This Week in Climate Startups segment, Molly chats with Taj Ahmad Eldridge from Include Ventures (29:42). They discuss: 1. How Taj's experience with negative health impacts from pollution helped guide his investing focus 2. Include Ventures' unique fund of funds and direct investment strategy 3. Why Taj is not afraid of hardware investing (and how it's paying off) 4. How government branches can support climate tech progress
It’s a variety show. First Jason and Molly do six rapid fire news topics (2:10) including: Rivian’s lowered guidance, Biden briefing TikTok influencers on Ukraine, declining NFT volume, creator economy wins, Biden’s Crypto executive order and Peloton’s new pricing pilot. Then, hard-tech investor Jai Malik of Countdown Capital joins (42:22) for Angel Season 6 “First Time Funds.” Finally, producer Rachel has another edition of OK Boomer, this time she talks viral marketing and new ways of fundraising with Josh from Party Round (1:18:42).
Jason and Molly discuss Ryan Breslow's new startup Love.com (2:03), Bain Capital Crypto’s new $550M fund announcement that backfired on Twitter (14:49). Then, Redfin CEO Glenn Kelman joins to discuss the current real estate market and how policies are promoting a nation of renters (54:28). Plus, Glenn turns the tables on Jason and Molly to ask them a few questions.
First Jason and Molly recap the Apple event, including the new Mac Studio release (1:53). Then they discuss Pony AI's $8.5B Series D (34:41). Next, Cruise CEO Kyle Vogt joins to discuss launching their driverless service in SF (46:40), their custom-built zero-emission shared vehicle the "Origin" (1:01:06), and self-driving maturity.
Sequoia Capital is the greatest venture capital firm of all time. It's indisputable. - Jason Jason chats with Sequoia's Doug Leone, a leader who shepherded the firm for four decades. They discuss great founders, governance, Sequoia's global expansion, mentoring the next generation of investors and more.
First, Jason and Molly cover the news of Alumni Ventures Group getting charged by the SEC for misleading investors about their management fees (1:56). AVG had to repay $4.7M to investors and paid $800,000 in a settlement. Next, we briefly touch on Index Ventures stopping their investments in Russia (24:56).
Then, Radiant Energy Fund Managing Director Mark Nelson joins to make the case for nuclear power and explain why many countries have chosen to decrease their nuclear capacity (40:03).
Another Sunday double-header edition! First Jason leads a VC Sunday School session on how to react when companies try and skip steps and raise larger rounds (2:51). Plus, how Pegasus (or Alicorn) companies can end up being much better investments than traditional Unicorns. Then, for This Week in Climate Startups, Molly chats with Andrew Beebe of Obvious Ventures (18:47). You will learn:
- Andrew's focus within climate tech (electric mobility, carbon and carbon markets)
- How Andrew's first startup exit set him up to join the solar industry
- How contrarian bets make careers
- The key criteria for climate investments to be good venture bets
- How Obvious Ventures puts its "world positive" mission into practice
- The way carbon disclosure requirements will reshape industry
- Why Andrew recommends reading Kim Stanley Robinson's "The Ministry for the Future"
First Jason and Molly cover Google is bringing employees back to the office three times per week starting in early April (1:41), Snowflake dropping 15% after reporting strong earnings, Slack’s slowing growth within Salesforce. After the news, Molly sits down with Alyse Killeen of Stillmark to continue Season 6 of Angel: First-time funds (38:10). We wrap with Producer Rachel's interview with Kai Han of Pallet, which is building a platform for creators to curate job boards (1:11:50).
Cana is back on the podcast, previously David Friedberg teased the "molecular beverage printer" on E1365. This time, we speak and to CEO Matt Mahar about pricing, their go-to-market plans, their cartridge subscription process, Cana's potential climate impact, current flavors and more! Molly was the first outsider to tour their facility and she tried a whole bunch of beverages from the Cana One. To see the video search "This Week in Startups - Video" in your podcast player or go to https://youtube.com/thisweekin.
First, we talk about Apple pausing all sales in Russia and other actions they’re taking (1:47). Then, we cover Ford splitting its EV business off from its ICE business (15:57). Then, Joe Speiser from Hampton VC joins to talk about how being too reliant on Facebook killed his media company Little Things with an algorithm change (25:42). We wrap with a quick WLITF segment on humanoid robots (42:05).
First, Jason and Molly break down the reactions from big tech companies to the Russia / Ukraine conflict (2:22), then we showcase our Startup of the Day, Backbone which is innovating in mobile games (51:41). Then Jason does an amazing interview with investor Joel Greenblatt, where we discuss increasing public market participation, strategies for finding value, taxes and more (1:05:50).
First, Molly Wood quickly sums up crypto donations flowing to Ukraine (2:03). Then, Jason and Molly chat with Molly White, the creator of the website "Web 3 is Going Great." We discuss the problems she identified with Web 3, speculation vs. building, DAOs, decentralization and more (7:01).
First up is a VC Sunday school where Jason discusses what investors mean when they say "we are interested in investing, but come back when you found a lead" (1:51). Then, we tease Molly's EV review of the Audi e-tron Sportback (20:42). To wrap, Molly does a This Week in Climate Startups segment with Seth Bannon (recorded on 2/9/22), a founding Partner of Fifty Years, a Venture capital firm investing in climate solutions (34:12). You will learn:
- The convictions that unpin Fifty Years' investment thesis
- Why Seth thinks VC has lost his way
- Why increasing longevity could be a net-positive for climate
- How Fifty Years measures impact of their investments
- How Seth evaluates the potential negative externalities of his investments
- How his PhD to VC program works
Jason chats with David Heinemeier Hansson (2:03) about global governments reacting to COVID, Basecamp’s Twitter cycle blowup last spring when more than 1/3 of the company left, the shift from debating in the public square (Twitter) to debating in private with friends on group chats. We also talk about why David now sees a case for Bitcoin after Canada leans toward authoritarianism. To wrap, Producer Rachel does another OK BOOMER segment where Rachel talks to Tony Tran (96:02), the founder and CEO of Lumanu, a company for creators to run their business.
Molly interviews Jason about raising "LAUNCH Fund I." This season of Angel is focused on the nitty-gritty details of raising and running a first-time fund (22:47). Jason shares everything from getting his first check to his biggest mistakes. But first, we discuss the biggest cybersecurity hacks of the last decade and potential risks going forward (1:32).
First we discuss Kanye’s new “STEM Player” bluetooth speaker, and why he’s trying to diversify away from Spotify and streaming platforms (2:21). We continue with a discussion about platform reliance one founder saw his business destroyed overnight by Facebook (25:17). Then we cover Pipe.com’s recent acquisition which is bringing them into the media space (28:59)! Lastly, Molly chats with Launch Accelerator Cohort 24 founder Joshe Ordonez, the CEO of Airpals about her awesome messenger service startup (39:44).
First, we cover Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong potentially taking credit for an idea generated by a creative firm (2:09). Then, we cover Peloton’s new CEO Barry McCarthy's vision for a revitalized Peloton (15:29). To wrap, we break down a dozen growth stocks that are down over 60% off their 52-week highs. We forecast two winners, one with the highest upside and one with the lowest downside (27:53).
Angel Season 6 is all about first-time fund managers. Fahd Ananta of Roach Capital joined to discuss his path from founder to PM to VC (04:07). You will learn: 1. How Fahd got Angel investing at Shopify 2. How Fahd made the transition from Angel investing to raising a fund 3. How geography can be used as a differentiator 4. The way he used his product skill to get on competitive cap tables
Then in our OK Boomer segment, Producer Rachel talks to John Herrick, the CTO of Dive Chat, a new messaging and event app (34:09).
Ashley Carman joins Jason & Molly to discuss Spotify's acquisition of podcast ad-tech companies Chartable and Podsights (1:55). Ashley is a senior reporter at The Verge and the lead writer at HotPod. We dig into why she thinks Spotify's main competition is YouTube and how the Big Tech and Big Media podcasting efforts are playing out.
After that, 10 companies pitch Jason and the team in rapid-fire (46:16). These startups went through Founder University, a 12-week course run by the team at Launch.
Companies: Giphting, Chojuu, TaCo, Term Payments, Fix6, Remotespace, SavvyTeam, Gaan, Timewell, Innocuous AI
World-class investor-operator Keith Rabois is back for his eighth time!
But first, Jason breaks down Airbnb’s great Q4 and full-year earnings report (2:42) and how its customer segment is evolving. Then, he briefly covers the SF Board of Education recall (22:58).
When Keith joins (31:27), he and Jason discuss: 1. How he called the top of the tech market in November 2021 2. Keith's 2019 prediction that came true 2. Venture Capital's decaying price discipline 3. Facebook's challenge ahead 4. Six predictions for the market
Catalyzed by a Ryan Breslow viral tweetstorm, we break down the arguments for if companies should loan money to employees to allow them to exercise their stock options early (1:42). Then, we briefly cover Nvidia’s attempted Arm acquisition falling through and what it might mean for the SoftBank-backed chip designer (30:21). Finally, Molly interviews Craig Zingerline from Growth University, a LAUNCH Accelerator founder (38:00)!
First, we break down the Crypto companies that ran super bowl ads and see how they stack up against the dot-com era ads (1:53). Then, we do an update on Joby aviation now that they are trying to roll out an air taxi service in South Korea (28:03). To wrap, Molly covers the BNPL (Buy Now, Pay Later) space and the challenges these companies are having as they scale, specifically Affirm's recent earnings (36:49).
Jason and Molly begin this double-header Sunday show with a VC Sunday School segment on top-tier VC behavior (01:38). You will learn:
- How first-tier VCs compare to second-tier VCs
- When VCs should intervene in a portfolio company
- The difference between micromanaging and good governance
- Jason's framework for ensuring alignment: Mission, Plan, Strategy, Tactics
- Why good Board Members remain calm and positive
Then, Molly is joined by Mike Lin from Dangerous Ventures for a This Week in Climate Startups segment (22:00). You will learn:
- What Mike learned from working at Makani Power (acquired by Google X)
- The potential of "muscle-powered" energy and its limits
- Lessons from the failed Potenco generator & One Laptop Per Child project
- How Mike got himself fired from Apple for insubordination
- Why Dangerous Ventures is backing "Dunkirk" climate solutions
Jason and Molly open the shown discussing Disney’s Q1 Earnings and the 37% increase in Disney+ subscribers (01:51).
Then, Qloo CEO Alex Elias joins to discuss his AI prediction company (21:12). You will learn:
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How Qloo uses machine learning to understand taste and draw cultural correlations
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Why Qloo adopted an API business model and is focused on developers
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Ways businesses and brands are using Qloo to improve customer experience and drive revenue
To wrap, we have an “OK Boomer” segment where Producer Rachel speaks with Zehra Naqvi from Republic (45:21). They disucss Zehra's work at Republic as an investment associate (48:00) and how Zehra developed the Z-list to facilitate intros between startups & VCs (55:21).
In the opening news segment, Molly and Jason break down the news around Peloton's new CEO, Barry McCarthy, including the open letter he sent to the company, his background and principles for success (2:05).
Then, Monique Woodard of Cake Ventures joins for Episode 5 of Season 6 of Angel (32:50). Monique was a founder, startup community leader, VC scout, and VC partner before raising her first fund.
In this episode you will learn:
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Her thesis on investing in demographic change
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What fundraising is like as a founder vs. fundraising as an aspiring fund manager
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Why she chose to have multiple closes for her fund
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Why Monique focused her efforts on institutional LPs, even though they take longer to close than individual LPs
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What it takes to operate as a solo GP
We have a great interview today! But first, Molly and Jason cover one of the craziest stories of the year. A couple has been charged with conspiring to launder ~$3.6B worth of crypto from the 2016 Bitfinex hack (2:14).
Today’s Guest is Peter Reinhardt, the co-founder of Segment, a customer data platform that sold to Twillio for $3.2B. Peter discusses his new company, Charm Industrial, which is focused on carbon capture and removal. In addition to his takeaways from selling Segment (42:00), you will learn: 1. How they turn agricultural waste and biomass into a high-carbon fuel 2. The carbon-removal benefits of injecting the bio-fuel into old oil wells 3. Why carbon capture is an important piece of getting to Net Zero 4. The potential impact of Charm Industrial if it succeeds (total CO2 tonnage) 5. Why this process differs from more passive ways of carbon offsets 6. How he landed customers like Shopify & Stripe (and why he thinks companies will continue to do this, even without government regulation)
Molly and Jason cover Peter Thiel stepping down from FB’s board and look back at the board's evolution over time (2:07). Next, we cover Joe Lonsdale’s op-ed in the Wall Street Journal, where he argues AWS should be split off from Amazon (27:41). We debate if valuations would increase if separated. Then, Peloton Founder & CEO John Foley is stepping down as the firm lays off 2800 people (40:30). We debate if they angling for an acquisition or making a turnaround attempt. To wrap, we discuss our startup of the day, Island, which is a browser for enterprise with a big valuation for a pre-product company (50:11).
Molly and Jason catch up on the big news stories from the weekend. First, we talk about the Joe Rogan & Spotify saga (1:51) and size up the odds of Rogan finishing out his contract with Spotify (15:41). Then, we cover Facebook warning about pulling Instagram and Facebook out of Europe due to privacy regulations (29:54). Next, we cover GoFundMe’s decision to pull funding for the “Freedom Convoy” protesters in Canada. We wrap with a discussion of the WSJ's reporting that Amazon is considering acquiring Peloton (57:26).
John Doerr of Kleiner Perkins joins to discuss his lessons from a career of investing and his new book "Speed & Scale: An Action Plan for Solving Our Climate Crisis Now," alongside his co-author Ryan Panchadsaram.
But first, Jason gives a 10-minute crash course on how to navigate messy cap tables in our latest VC Sunday School segment (1:54).
Then John and Ryan join Molly and Jason for a conversation (15:11). In this episode, you will learn: 1. The six objectives and four accelerants to reach zero emissions by 2050 2. Why Nuclear power is an important part of the plan, but cannot be the only solution 3. The biggest blockers to rapid climate progress and why "the climate crisis is under-hyped" 4. Hard-won lessons from funding solar companies 5. How John assesses founders and develops conviction to invest 6. Indications John saw that Jeff Bezos was an exceptional entrepreneur 7. Where investors should focus to drive the biggest output
First Jason and Molly discuss reports from "The Information" that Jokr is looking to sell its NYC delivery business due to heightened competition (1:51). Next, they cover how Cruise is opening up its driverless vehicles to give rides in San Francisco (11:09).
Then, Gopuff Co-founder and Co-CEO Rafael Ilishayev joins to discuss his rapid delivery business (19:12).
Almost a decade ago, Raf and his co-founder Yakir Gola started one of the fastest-growing commerce businesses while in college. Most recently they raised $1B at a reported $15B valuation in July 2021. In this episode, you will learn:
- The rationale behind operating a vertically-integrated model
- How they operate hundreds of micro-fulfillment centers & manage deliveries in 20 minutes
- Why they acquired BevMo and Liquor Barn to accelerate their alcohol delivery business instead of building it themselves
- The challenges he sees going forward to operate the business well
- Why Gopuff launched their own private label called “Basically” and hot food offering called "Gopuff Kitchens"
- How influencers like Mr. Beast are choosing Gopuff as a key platform to distribute products
In the opening news segment, Molly and Jason break down the numbers behind Facebook's colossal drop in market cap (2:42). Then, they cover a company that seems to be violating music copyrights to sell NFTS (38:14).
Then, Paige Finn of Behind Genius joins for Episode 4 of Season 6 of Angel (49:45). Paige became interested in venture capital during college, but within a year and a half of graduating in 2020 she already has a fund!
In this episode you will learn:
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How she secured her first allocation before having a fund
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The steps she took to set up an SPV while being a non-accredited investor
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How she raised a $1.6m fund
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Behind Genius' investing thesis and strategy
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The books that have most influenced her work and writing style
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Why she wrote a picture book (for adults) called "Seed to Harvest: A Simple Explanation of Venture Capital"
First, Jason explains how someone copied the All-In podcast, put in ads, and then redirected Google’s podcast player to display it as the real All-In feed (1:44). Then, we break down Google's Q4 and full year earnings for 2021 (18:25). Is Google the best business ever? Then, Jason tells the story of “The Great iPad Troll of 2010” (45:10).
Another big news drop in the gaming space! Jason and Molly discuss Sony is acquiring Bungie for $3.6B (2:36). We break down what this means for Sony, Bungie’s crazy history, and if other big tech giants should look for M&A targets in gaming. Then, we talk about our startup of the day called Metafy which allows pro gamers to do 1-on-1 teaching, online for hourly rates (29:38). Finally we wrap with Shopify CEO Tobi Lütke joining Coinbase’s board (48:33).
This is the last all-news show this week.
Over the weekend Bolt CEO Ryan Breslow wrote a big thread on why he thinks Y Combinator isn't worth it. We break it down point by point and assess the validity of the claims (7:07). Right before we started recording, news broke that Breslow was leaving the CEO role to assume the executive chairman position, so we cover that too (2:11). Then, we cover Joe Rogan’s expla-nology (explanation/apology) video regarding his COVID-related interviews that have upset many. We react to his response, Spotify's new COVID policy and reflect on the risks to Spotify’s business overall (44:32).
Jason says, "fortunes are made in the down market and collected in the up market." In today's VC Sunday School Jason and Molly discuss how a down market impacts early-stage investors (01:45). You will learn:
- Risks to VC fundraising when valuations are down
- If your investing process should vary depending on market conditions
- How a down market impacts future returns
- Why founders should have 18 months of runway
- How founders can turn a down market into an advantage
Then, Molly chats with Emily Kirsch, Managing Partner of Powerhouse Ventures for a This Week in Climate Startups segment (25:53). Emily is a climate investor and they discuss:
- Why Powerhouse is focused on software
- Climate change's potential impact on GDP
- How financial tools enabled the solar revolution
- Regulations impacting climate investing
- How different climate tech investors work together
- The imbalance between climate tech founders and companies
Today’s guest is Packy McCormick of Not Boring, for Episode 3 of Season 6 of Angel. Packy turned his massive newsletter into a Not Boring Fund I in 2021, and has since invested $10M into startups. In this episode you will learn:
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How Packy raised his first fund from his readers.
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What regulations he needed to navigate to comply with the SEC.
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Which sectors he invested his first $10M into (in just 6 months) and some of his breakout startups.
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Why IRR can be hilariously large in the early stages of a small fund.
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How he manages a syndicate and a venture fund while still doing right by LPs.
As Packy signs off we check in with Producer Rachel who went down to Miami Hack Week and spoke to one of the organizers of Tap House.
Alex Wilhelm from TechCrunch joins Molly and Jason for a full episode. First, they breakdown Tesla's Q4 2021 earnings including its consistently increasing Model 3 production, profitability and charger network growth (3:08). Next up, they discuss why Alex thinks the IPO window is closed for most startups. We wrap with a review of some of 2022's most anticipated IPOs including Discord, Reddit, Stripe, Impossible Foods, Chime and Instacart (24:45).
We break down Microsoft’s amazing earnings (quarterly revenue is up $10B year-over-year) and assess if Satya Nadella is the greatest big tech CEO right now (2:32). Then, we follow-up on the Stripe Mafia thread yesterday from the Bolt CEO (20:59) and we talk about Neil Young asking to have his music removed from Spotify over Joe Rogan’s COVID conversations, which prompted a discussion of Spotify’s new headache is it a publisher or a platform (37:40)? And, we talk about Scratchpad raising $33M, which led to Jason's request for new types of startups: beautiful interfaces for giant clunky products.
In this all news show Jason and Molly talk about Jason's strategy for meeting with founders (1:48) and we talk about monetization for creators on TikTok and how payouts compare to YouTube (6:48). Then we look at the post where Bolt Founder Ryan Breslow accused Stripe and YC of being Silicon Valley mob bosses (31:41). Our startup of the day is Culdesac, which is building a walkable community in Arizona (45:42). To wrap, we cover Anduril’s $1B Department of Defense contract for counter-drone tech, their largest contract to date (58:55).
Due to the volatility in the market, Jason and Molly review the fundamentals of Block, Zoom, Netflix, Coinbase, and AirBnB and compare this correction with the Dot-com crash (2:11). They discuss investing in a downturn, the difference between private and public investors, speculative businesses vs. strong fundamentals and more! To wrap, we cover activist investor Blackwells Capital calling for the Peloton Board to terminate CEO John Foley and consider a sale (57:10).
First, Jason teaches Sunday VC School: how investors work together (01:54). In this segment you will learn.
- How collaboration varies across investing stages.
- How lead investors are determined and what their responsibilities are.
- The strategies you can use to win deals (Jason explains the pitch he gives to founders with options).
- The warning signs to watch for when working with other investors.
- Tactics founders can use for lower-friction fundraising.
Then, Molly chats with Ramez Naam from Prime Movers Lab in a This Week in Climate Startups segment (35:10). They discuss the declining costs of renewable energy, making the choice between advancing existing technologies and inventing new ones, how science fiction can make you a better investor and more.
First, Jason and Molly chat with one of the top Apple reporters, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, about Apple's AR headset (2:02). They talk about Apple's strategy, timeline, competitive strengths and more. Then our Producer Rachel chats with Campbell Baron, a 19-year old who sold his TikTok to Workweek, a new startup-focused media company (1:00:25). Campbell created business content and accumulated millions of views before he turned 18! In the interim, the producers Jason & Molly have a chat about what they are working on, lessons from their early careers and more (35:25).
David Friedberg joins to discuss The Production Board's latest company, Cana, which is making the world's first molecular beverage printer. But first Jason and Molly break down some news. Google is reportedly working on an AR headset (2:15) and Peloton trying to improve their bottom line by raising prices and reportedly halting production and trimming headcount (18:54).
Then, David joins to chat about how his company Cana could totally remake the beverage industry with a device reminiscent of Star Trek's Replicator (36:57). You will learn:
- How humans perceive taste.
- How The Production Board incubates deep tech companies and evaluates if science is ready to be commercialized.
- The way the Cana device will be able to recreate any beverage on demand.
- Which types of beverages will be practical first.
Check out Cana: https://www.cana.com/vision
First Jason and Molly cover how 5G rollouts are causing problems with airlines (2:03) and Lina Khan’s remarks on reworking antitrust regulation to not only consider deals inflicting consumer harm, but those lessening competition (10:10).
Then, David Rosenthal for Season 6 Episode 2 of Angel (29:00)
- David’s been a VC for a while, but he just launched a new $2.8M fund part-time with Nat Manning
- We get into why his small fund size is actually so significant and represents new possibilities in venture
- How he uses his podcast and community to get dealflow
- What he thinks you need before starting your own VC fund
Microsoft has announced its intention to make the largest tech acquisition ever by buying Activision-Blizzard for ~$75B ($68.7 when you net out Activision's cash). This is Microsoft's 3rd major gaming acquisition as it attempts to build the “Netflix for Gaming" with its Game Pass service.
We cover the details of the deal: what the combined company will look like, how this fits into Microsoft's metaverse strategy, Microsoft's commitment to change the Activision-Blizzard culture, the $3B “breakup fee” that Activision is on the hook for if deal falls through, the potential challenge from the FTC and more!
Frank is the Chairman & CEO of Snowflake, a company he joined and rapidly accelerated in 2019. Frank led Snowflake to the largest software IPO in history (his third massive IPO as CEO). Previously, he grew Data Domain from $0 in revenue in 2003 to a ~$776M IPO in 2007 and then grew ServiceNow to a $22B market cap. In this episode you will learn the principles Frank uses to achieve outlier outcomes.
1 - Attracting and cultivating high-performing talent. Getting the wrong people off the bus fast is critical. Frank prefers "drivers" to "passengers." 2 - Without risk-taking, the business will stagnate. Left to their own devices things slow to a "glacial pace." CEOs should push to find the true limits of the organization. 3 - Intellectual honesty is required. Copy-pasting strategy from previous roles is unacceptable. You need to develop deep conviction, while maintaining humility to course correct when you are wrong. 4 - Culture and reputation are defined by your actions. CEOs must maintain an incredibly high bar.
Get his book "Amp It Up: Leading for Hypergrowth by Raising Expectations, Increasing Urgency, and Elevating Intensity" https://ampitupbook.com/
First, Jason covers the how Signal messages led to the Oath Keeper sedition indictments (1:47) and how Google, Facebook, Reddit, and Twitter are being subpoenaed by the House committee investigating Jan 6th, 2021 (15:32). Then Producer Rachel has an "OK Boomer" segment where she talks with Alex Masmej a French entrepreneur about his experience raising $20K from selling a personal token, $ALEX (27:10).
First Jason covers the recent college enrollment decline (1:23) and lays out his alternative (9:56).
Then Zach Coelius joins for an Ask an Angel session, where they answer 12 audience questions about investing and startups (20:37).
You will learn: - What is the definition of an outlier success in VC? - Are investors okay with founders that use no-code software like Bubble as an MVP? - How does a seasoned investor deal with a founder who is headed in the wrong direction? - Common pitch failures? - When should you go for top line versus bottom line? - Would VC funds do better with individuals instead of institutions? - What industries Zach and Jason would like to see disrupted - How much of an impact does bad reputation have on investing? - What makes a good Board Meeting? - As a VC, is it better to stay off the board from a liability standpoint? - What is too expensive at the seed stage?
First we talk about how the top streaming platforms projected to spend $140B on content in 2022 (2:18) and Elizabeth Warren’s bad take on grocery stores. Then Mac the VC joins the show as the first guest for Angel Season 6 (49:29) to share his story and how he invests.
First Jason and Molly discuss YC's new $500K deal for startups and what that means for founders and early stage investors (1:53). They also dig into car-sharing app Turo's S-1 (25:32). Then Redfin Co-founder and current Deep Sentinel CEO Dave Selinger joins to discuss how his company blends human monitors and AI-enabled cameras to deliver an unmatched security camera experience (38:25).
We cover the tech stock pullback (1:34), discuss the impact of the SEC exploring more restrictions and disclosures for late stage private companies (12:00) and share details about Apple’s mixed reality headset are leaking (37:07). We wrap with a new segment... over/under(45:11)!
Welcome to our new Sunday show. Each episode will have two segments, Sunday VC School and Climate startups. First, Jason and Molly discuss early-stage investing including, Jason's valuation vs. traction matrix (1:44) and developing a BS detector (23:03). Then Jason introduces Molly's new climate segment (27:15) and then Molly interviews New Energy Nexus CEO Danny Kennedy (33:38). They discuss what Danny looks for in clean energy investments(37:03) and more!
Valuation vs. Traction Matrix: https://calacanis.com/2019/03/30/the-valuation-vs-traction-matrix
Jason and Molly cover how 15% of the world’s bitcoin mining network went down when Kazakhstan’s internet was shut off (3:11) and Chainalysis' scam report (12:32). Then they do a "We Live in the Future" segment about AI created actors (16:49) and “Memes of the Week” review of Marc Andreessen's tweets (25:32). Finally, Producer Rachel wraps with an "OK Boomer" interview with YouTube creator and software engineer Ben Awad (38:43).
First, Jason and Molly cover how the Twitter competitor GETTR got 700K+ downloads this week (2:25) and discuss the challenges of moderating a social media platform (15:54). Then, they quickly cover how the NYT is reportedly buying the Athletic for $550M (21:13). To wrap, we have an interview with Jiho Zirlin from Axie Infinity, the multi-billion dollar NFT game (32:15). They talk about how "play to earn" games actually work (40:11), balancing an in-game economy (53:33), renting Axies and how "guilds" work (58:05), digital land (1:03:42) and more!
In this all news show, Jason and Molly cover Toyota & Volkswagen committing a combined $170B to take on Tesla’s EV dominance (2:30), NFT platform OpenSea raising a $300M Series C at a $13.3B valuation (20:08), China’s tight grip on tech causing job loss and accelerating company closure (44:50), and how Ben Smith from the NYT is teaming up with Bloomberg Media’s CEO to launch a new media company (56:52).
Jason and Molly cover Theranos' Elizabeth Holmes guilty verdict (1:47), how even socialists have admitted that Amazon is the best place many people have ever worked (40:08). To wrap they dig into Biden’s new sanctions against China the implications from decoupling our economies (56:16).
Jason and Molly cover how QuickCommerce startup JOKR lost $159 per order in the US in August (1:54), the state of startup valuations (25:57), Jason's case of COVID & the state of testing (32:00), OpenSea freezing over $2M worth of stolen NFTs (52:28) and they wrap with quick recap of the latest chapter of Web 3 Twitter beef featuring AirBnB CEO Brian Chesky and Box Founder Aaron Levie (58:24).
Jason hosts "The 2021 TWISTY Awards" where we give out 10 awards for top podcast moments from this year including: the most surprisingly awesome guest (02:17), best chemistry (04:48), best live moment (23:43), most awkward moment (28:51), funniest moment (36:51), best guest (45:19) and more! At the end he has a short "after-party" discussion with producers (50:58). Thank you for listening, this is our last planned episode of 2021.
Jason is joined by This Week in Startups' new co-host Molly Wood for a news show. First they cover why Molly joined the TWiST team (1:24), then they dig into the Web3 wars erupting on Twitter (24:00) and break down Rivian's Q3 earnings (51:45).
Producer's note: this is our only podcast this week
Praying for Exits, the top meme account in Venture Capital joins to discuss being a pseudonymous commentator (01:13), why VCs spend too much time brand building (12:37), entitlement in tech (23:47), assessing founders and companies qualitatively and quantitatively (35:46), crazy VC stories (52:10) plus so much more!
First Jason covers Melania Trump launching an NFT series (02:27) and Reddit just filing to go public(13:10). Then, Twitter's Tony Haile joins (24:14) to talk about selling his startup Scroll to Twitter, helping lead Twitter's product team (37:07), Twitter's roadmap and more.
First Jason covers the Mayo clinic's promising new signs for mRNA cancer treatment (02:02), Google's firm vaccine policy (07:41) and the Better.com CEO stepping away after last week's meltdown (16:39). Then, Jason brings on three founders he has invested in and chats with them about their company: SupporTrends co-founder Oliver Rowen on customer insights (25:23), Wearwell co-founder and CEO Erin Houston on sustainable fashion (37:11), and PaidBack co-founder Amber Masters on budgeting and paying off debt (50:15).
All news show! First Jason gives an Elizabeth Holmes trial update and reveals the key point the prosecution missed (2:12). Then he covers, Nike acquires an NFT company (14:17), $USDT becoming an official currency of a shadow government in Myanmar (31:55), how “The Hangover” director Todd Phillips made $150M on the trilogy (36:58) and the Japanese billionaire who delivered UberEats to the international space station (44:55).
First, Jason breaks down the math of why Peloton might be undervalued (3:23). Then, the founder and CEO Rad Power Bikes Mike Radenbaugh joins to discuss building a massive ebike company (15:36), the most innovative features, ebike regulation and cites. Then, spoiler alert Jason gives his top takeaways from the Succession season three finale recap (01:05:58) and Producer Nick pitches a storyline to work Jason into season four. At the end of the show Jason and Nick discuss the strategy and behind the scenes of producing All-in (01:32:20).
First, Jason plays "Guess the Fake Startup" (1:30). Then, Jason interviews four founders he invested in (12:50): David Park from Jenni.ai about computer copywriting assistants (18:08), Samuel Spitz from Wearloom on aggregating the resale marketplace shopping experience (28:11), Sudhama Bhatia from Track about his premium calendar client (40:35) and Marie Ng from Llama Life on building a time-based productivity tool (51:05). To wrap up the show, we have an "OK Boomer" segment where Producer Rachel talks with Gen Z marketer Erifili Gounari (01:13:25)
First, Jason covers the recent crypto hearings (1:25), then offers a brief potential NFT solution for Adele's ticket scalper problem (16:06). After the news, Jason closes out the 100-point Startup Checklist with ten tips for founders including, lean management (23:19), constant product engagement (43:51), monthly updates (46:30) and more!
All news today. Jason recaps his Art Basel experience (1:55), meeting Beeple, being ultra candid with the JUUL CEO (6:58) and interviewing Cathie Wood & Tiffany Zhong about crypto at 500 Global's Pre-Money conference (17:23). Then, he breaks down the Better.com CEO's 900-person layoff over Zoom (31:36).
Geoff Lewis is a Co-Founder and Managing Director at Bedrock Capital. He joins to discuss lessons from entrepreneurship (1:25), why "vibe" is the critical way he assesses founders (11:44), his investment in Praxis, a city-state building company (23:15), his unique answer to the contrarian question (31:17), defense tech, AI and much more.
Crypto is reaching the mainstream, which has major implications for crypto and traditional startups alike. Kruze Consulting COO Scott Orn joins to discuss what regulation and taxes actually apply to crypto (3:17), recent improvements in crypto accounting infrastructure (8:24), appropriately documenting crypto holdings (21:25) and more! With crypto market capitalizations rivaling large cap tech companies, the IRS wants its due. This is a great crash course for properly documenting crypto and avoiding future fines.
First, Jason covers Square's corporate renaming to Block to reflect their broader ambitions (2:11), breaks down the genius of Spotify wrapped (13:15), and gives a nod to Grab's public debut (16:41). Then, Jason is joined by 3 founders who went through the Launch Accelerator, to extract the lessons from the early days of running a company. First is Paul Bloch of Fathom, an AI-enabled podcast search platform (23:03), then Zach Hudson of Deft, a E-commerce search engine (41:58) and finally Liam Gerada of Krepling, a no-code e-commerce platform (54:19).
David and Ben from Acquired.FM join Jason to talk about their favorite podcast moments from 2021 (1:29), valuations across startups & crypto (35:50), top content recommendations (1:10:00) and so much more!
First, Jason covers Twitter's confusing major new privacy policy revision (1:54), reacts to a 1995 clip of Bill Gates talking about the internet on Letterman (12:36). Then, in episode 9 of the Startup Checklist, Jason explains how to raise capital from venture investors (16:47). This includes: finding investors and evaluating if they are the right fit (29:35), nailing cold emails (35:33), pitching your startup, sending investor (47:42) updates and more.
First, Jason sums up Jack Dorsey's departure from Twitter's CEO role (1:41). Then he breaks down the stats from Mr. Beast's latest YouTube video (11:05). After the news, Haus CEO and Co-Founder Helena Price Hambrecht joins (16:53) to discuss her DTC alcohol brand, changing habits of American drinkers and more.
Kruze Consulting COO Scott Orn shares the seven tasks founders need to complete before years end. Jason and Scott discuss efficiently navigating compliance and tax deadlines, taking advantage of tax incentives for VC-backed startups, financial planning and more.
First Jason covers Zoom's Q3 earnings and reflects on broader tech valuations (01:53). Then, Jason does a Startup Checklist episode on how to get your startup ready for an investment (16:10). The episode covers the basics like making sure you have the right structure (18:06), the ways you can fundraise (39:33) and more.
Banana Capital's Turner Novak joins to discuss breaking into venture, starting his own fund (11:08), what it's like being an emerging manager, rising valuations, and crypto (45:10). Turner also makes the case for quick commerce, group grocery buying in Latin America (1:04:03) and more!
Full news show today! First, a quick update on Nikola and Trevor Milton's situation (1:35). Then, Jason reacts to a video of Jordan Peterson getting "orange-pilled" (23:10) and the announcement of El Salvador's Bitcoin City (31:51). To wrap up the show, we do another "We Live in the Future" segment about a speeder hover-bike by Japan's A.L.I. Technologies (46:46).
First, Jason covers ConstitutionDAO attempt to buy one of the remaining 13 copies of the constitution at Sotheby's (01:56). Then, he does 10 points from the Startup Checklist on operational excellence (34:54). To close out the show, Producer Rachel speaks with Meagan Loyst, a VC at Lerer Hippeau who leads a group called Gen Z VCs (01:04:00).
First Jason explains why Miramax is suing Quentin Tarantino over his Pulp Fiction NFT collection (2:31). Then Twitch Co-Founder & GP at Goat Capital Justin Kan joins (19:19) to discuss lessons from entrepreneurship, what he looks for when investing, his YouTube channel, podcast and more!
First, Sam Lessin of Slow Ventures joins to discuss how he is applying the venture model to invest in individuals, he just placed a $1.7M bet on a YouTube creator (4:10). Then, Jason brings on Chris Niblett, who is going through Founder University (41:40). They discuss Chris's company Bizzly, which is a "Patreon for small businesses," what can be improved, and Jason invests live on the show!
First, Jason covers the Ohio Attorney General suing Meta (2:05). Then, Tusk Venture's Bradley Tusk joins to discuss the strategy he developed to help Uber overcome cities trying to ban it (17:43), what actually motivates politicians (23:02), mobile voting (31:07) the advice he would give Mark Zuckerberg (48:28) and more!
Remote work unlocked massive hiring opportunities for startups, but also creates new compliance challenges. In this episode, Kruze Consulting COO Scott Orn joins to explain how startups should navigate remote work. They discuss PEOs, sales tax, and tax credits.
First up, Jason showcases what he calls the greatest CNBC hit of all time (01:46). Then he covers YouTube hiding the downvote counter (18:49). In the interview segment, Ready Games CEO David Bennahum about his new fashion Icon NFT marketplace game (27:31) and the transition from walled gardens to open source. We wrap with another edition of "OK Boomer" (01:07:00) where Rachel is reporting on Emily Herrera, a 22 year old who started her own Angel syndicate while still in college (01:20:24).
First, Jason analyzes Rivian's IPO and gives his thoughts on the current valuation (2:05). Then, Aaron Wright from OpenLaw joins (22:13) to discuss Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs). At OpenLaw Aaron has helped launch 9 DAOs by providing legal structure, tooling and infrastructure. They talk digital contracts, why Aaron thinks DAOs are better for investment decisions and more!
First, Jason breaks down Coinbase's Q3 earnings and takes a look at the broader trends in crypto trading (01:13). Then, Jason runs through 10 points of his "Startup Checklist" focused on crafting a brand & knowing your market (11:25). At the end, Jason answers a question from the live audience (43:16).
First Jason covers Roblox earnings, the platform's total usage is up 28% year over year (2:19)! In a new segment, "We Live in the Future," Jason shares Jetson One, a personal E-VTOL (11:16). Then, Ryan Engle of Golf+ joins to talk about the VR golf game his team developed for Oculus (23:08), Meta's lead in VR hardware (51:29) and more.
In this hot funding environment, both investors and founders benefit from startups having all the finance basics covered. In this episode, Kruze Consulting COO Scott Orn joins to explain how to prepare for diligence and avoid fraud. They discuss common blockers in diligence (10:19), the benefits of tight financials (23:31) and more!
First, Jason breaks down three recent earnings reports, Uber (1:57), Airbnb (21:10) and Peloton (26:00). Then, he introduces a new segment "Ok Boomer" where our producer Rachel reports on Gen Z tech & business culture. Today, she talks to Ziad Ahmed of JUV consulting about managing and working with Gen Z employees as they enter the workforce. (39:55)
We continue with episode five of the Startup Checklist, where Jason gives 10 points to build a great team. He covers hiring, compensating the early team (11:31), outsourcing, structuring the company, setting the cadence (39:48), finding advisors and more!
Jason reacts to Zillow's huge drop after the implosion of their iBuying business (4:33), and breaks down the Biden Administration's stablecoin report (23:35). Then, LeadIQ CEO Mei Siauw joins the show to talk growing a SaaS business with a distributed team, going from $500 to $10M+ in revenue, and more! (43:27)
First Jason briefly covers TikTok owner Bytedance's restriction on overtime working hours (2:14). Then Multicoin Capital partner Kyle Samani joins (11:07) to discuss how they evaluate products, why they prefer to invest in tokens over equity, the Solana blockchain (19:17), Helium (57:05), Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs) and much more.
First, Jason covers the reported revenue impacts for FB, SNAP, TWTR & GOOG caused by Apple's App Tracking Transparency policies (1:57). Then, Aimee Yang CEO & Founder of BetterBrand™ joins (16:18) to discuss her first product the "Better Bagel." The conversation includes bringing the product to market, the opportunity to reshape food, raising from 776 and more!
Facebook changed its name to Meta. In the news segment, Jason shares 10 highlights from the keynote and reacts to the name change (1:57). Then DuckDuckGo founder and CEO Gabriel Weinberg joins (36:22) to discuss his search engine's continued growth, surviving Google's monopoly (41:57), how they differentiate with privacy (48:30), and all the updates they've made since he was last on the show 10 years ago!
First, Jason reacts Conde Nast's union refusing to return to the office on November 1 and takes stock of the big tech WFH policy landscape (1:34). We continue the show with episode four of the Startup Checklist, where Jason covers "Building a Great Product" in points 31-40 (13:54).
First, Jason covers Sequoia's VC-redefining transition to an evergreen fund (1:54). He continues Q3 earnings coverage with Robinhood (13:38) and Twitter (21:10). Then, Ryan Breslow from Bolt joins to discuss transitioning to a 4-day work week, open-sourcing their company handbook and running a startup effectively (28:07).
First, Jason breaks down Facebook's Q3 earnings, including: growing revenue and profits, slowing user growth, AR investment and its new reporting structure (2:00). He also covers Facebook's potential rebrand as a metaverse-focused company and its declining usage amongst US teens and young adults. (11:35) Then, Italic's Jeremy Cai joins the show to discuss his innovative new e-commerce concept, ruffling feathers with incumbents, supply chain insights, and more! (25:58)
This Startup Basics is all about growth & retention. Tiffani Bova from Salesforce joins to talk about how startups should measure customer health, the pitfalls of high churn, the best kind of growth, how to earn trust by saying "no" & more.
Tech journalist Eric Newcomer joins to talk the Trump SPAC (8:26), WeWork SPAC (15:58), and the behind the scenes funding story of GitLab's IPO (25:41). Then, HNGRY's Matt Newberg joins to talk innovations in the quick commerce space, the growing impact of ghost kitchens, and more! (1:01:10)
First, Jason reacts to CNBC's Paul Tudor Jones interview, where PTJ warned about inflation and called Bitcoin (and crypto) a better hedge than gold (2:10). Then, Jason covers the new Bitcoin ETF and Hindenburg putting a bounty out for information on Tether (21:34). We wrap with episode three of the Startup Checklist, where Jason covers "Finding and Delighting Customers" in points 21-30 (34:41).
It was great to have Jeff back on the pod! But first, Producer Rachel gives some updates on TWIST Founder Meetups (01:54) and Jason talks a bit about Oculus (14:12). Then, Jeff Lawson from Twilio joins (24:42) to discuss their new mission to build the leading customer engagement platform, the launch of their new product Twilio Engage, lessons from scaling & their big acquisitions, San Francisco and more!
First, Jason reacts to the most recent Apple event announcing new M1 chips & Macbooks (1:26). Then, Circle CEO Jeremy Allaire (23:85) joins to discuss how USDC, what makes Circle different from Tether, regulation, and more.
This Startup Basics is all about managing customer relationships. Tiffani Bova from Salesforce joins to talk about the ways startups can improve customer interactions, transforming one-time transactions to reoccurring relationships. Jason and Tiffani give practical tips better serve customers and keep them coming back.
First, Jason covers Coinbase's announcement of their new NFT platform (2:06). Then, Bloomberg's Max Chafkin joins to discuss his book, "The Contrarian: Peter Thiel and Silicon Valley's Pursuit of Power" (19:57). It's a wide-ranging discussion about Peter's life, business, and politics as well as a debate over the way Max framed him in the book.
First, Jason covers the blowback Netflix is facing from Dave Chappelle's new special "The Closer" and the masterful response from Co-CEO Ted Sarandos (2:09). Then, continuing our startup checklist series, Jason explains 10 items founders need to go through before choosing a business model (25:08).
Jason does a short news segment on China’s Bitcoin Mining hash rate falling to 0 and how the U.S. is now the largest mining hub (1:59). Then, Jacob Helberg author of "The Wires of War: Technology and the Global Struggle for Power," joins to discuss China's long-term goals (9:03), the United States' lack of preparedness, the struggle for control of front-end and backend technologies (32:22), plus much more.
Anatoly from Solana joins Jason to discuss how they've managed to build the fastest blockchain (0:54). Solana's "proof of history" innovation allows for over 50,000 transactions a second, we get into Solana's value prop (25:51), use cases (40:14), developer ecosystem and more!
Startup Basics is BACK! This series focuses on one of the most important aspects of any successful startup: the customer. On episode two, Salesforce's Tiffani Bova joins to break down all things customer engagement: defining it, authenticity, blending automation with a human touch, social media strategies and more!
First, Jason chats with Bloomberg reporter Zeke Faux about his latest investigative piece "Tether's $69 Billion Mystery"(1:04). Then, Jason launches our news series "Startup Checklist" (31:49) which explores the things you should do to be prepared to launch a company.
In a short news segment, Jason talks about a company that tried to sell "fantasy startup investing" NFTs and why they had to pivot (1:44). Jason gives a brief tribute to Steve Jobs (15:48). Then, he's joined by JB Straubel, Tesla's longtime CTO who stepped down in 2019 to found a new lithium-ion battery recycling company, Redwood Materials(22:08). JB and Jason discuss the early launches and setbacks at Tesla, overcoming challenges, and the possibilities created by battery recycling. To close out the show, we play a clip of Steve Job's 2005 Stanford Commencement Address (1:20:15).
In this all news show, Jason covers Facebook Whistleblower Frances Haugen’s Senate testimony and Mark Zuckerberg's response (2:22). We also get into the fraud claims made by Scorpion Capital against Ginkgo Bioworks $DNA (1:01:35), we had Ginkgo CEO Jason Kelly on E1239 https://bit.ly/twiste1239.
Startup Basics is BACK! This series will focus on one of the most important aspects of any successful startup: the customer. On episode one, Salesforce's Tiffani Bova joins to break down all things customer experience: defining it, what an amazing experience looks like, how startups can beat the incumbents, and more!
In this news episode, Jason covers the Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen's "60 minutes" interview and breaks down some clips. Then he shares the highlights and rationalizations from the OZY Media CEO's Today Show appearance.
First Jason covers Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong's reflections on last year's blog "Coinbase is a mission focused company.” Then, Nat Manning joins from Kettle, to chat about better assessing fire risk with data, how California can prevent home damage from increasing wildfires, outperforming actuaries & more.
Jason does a full news show breaking down: how Amazon monitors drivers with AI cameras (01:54), Tesla's new driver score (22:05), OZY Media's continued fallout (32:45), and new proposed changes for homeowners in coastal zones (42:08). Plus, Jason explains his new program OpenScouting.com
First, Jason brings on investor, former ad tech exec, and frequent guest Zach Coelius to discuss the strategic implications of Google's new ad attribution policy (01:43). Then Michael Dell joins for for a full interview (21:54) sharing stories from the early days of building Dell, scrappy supply-chain arbitrage, global expansion, negotiations with Steve Jobs and Bill Gates, the $67B EMC VMware acquisition (57:40) and more!
First, Jason covers OZY media's attempted deception of Goldman Sachs & investors (1:50), then covers Clubhouse's monetization problem with special guest Ashley Carman from the Verge (24:26). To wrap up, he discusses VC retirements (46:30) and Disney's Star Wars Visions (56:29).
Jason covers Instagram's Adam Mosseri announcing the pause of Instagram Kids (2:09), the recent firing of Bevy employee following a hostile interaction in Brooklyn (21:51). Then, Squarespace Founder and CEO Anthony Casalena joins (35:43) to discuss what marketing channels have been best for growing the company, new products offerings and shares stories from scaling and more!
Jason covers China's latest crypto mandate (0:59), a TikToker's conspiracy about iBuyers and the Redfin CEO's response (17:17), then takes a bunch of Ask Jason Questions (31:42) & more!
In this all news show, Jason teases a new podcast dedicated to SaaS (1:46) and covers: the EU's planned USB-C mandate (7:44), China's property glut (13:12), TikTok Investors following congressional trades (20:24), Tim Cook's battle against leakers (25:47), the "Facebook Files" source (28:36), Bolt's 4-day workweek and more! Then he takes some listener questions (47:24).
First, Jason covers the new Apple Maps and what he speculates it means for their next major product (2:11), then discusses SEC Chair Gary Gensler calling crypto the "wild west"(10:38). Then, Jason interviews Pacaso Founder & CEO Austin Allison about fractional home ownership, battling NIMBY's and more (24:46)!
In a short news segment, Jason describes Apple's new iCloud+ privacy suite (2:18). Then, Framework founder Nirav Patel joins to talk about making laptop customization great again (13:04)! They discuss the difficulty of raising VC for a consumer hardware startup, creating products for the "modding" audience, the environmental benefit of fixing products and more(24:16)!
In news, Jason covers Bytedance's decision to institute a 40 minute limit for kids on Douyin, the Chinese version of TikTok (1:56) and hits on the real estate situation in SF and implications for the startup community (15:02). Then, Orbital Insight's CEO Kevin O'Brien joins for the next installment of our Next Unicorns series (21:38) discussing how to make sense of billions of satellite images and pieces of sensor data to form a comprehensive view of the world.
First, Jason reacts to comments from Head of Instagram Adam Mosseri on the impact of Instagram on teen girls and comparing the risks of social media to the automobile industry (1:50). Then, Jason breaks down OpenSea's update on their front-running employee (11:55), and Jay-Z's NFT lawsuit (15:40). Finally, Sourcegraph CEO Quinn Slack joins to discuss growing his universal code search engine, selling a high-ticket SaaS product and more (21:48)!
Full news show! First up, Jason covers the App Annie fraud (1:59), then he shares thoughts on Facebook's leaked documents showing they knew Instagram was detrimental to teen girls' mental health despite claiming the contrary (13:55). He also touches on Discord's $15B valuation (25:56), Mailchimp selling for $12B (33:40), and answers some livestream questions (40:35)!
First, Jason breaks down NFT platform OpenSea admitting one of their employees was front-running featured items (2:02). Could this tip off the SEC that NFTs might be securities rather than collectibles (12:01)? Then, Jason talks to Producer Rachel about TWiST Meetups (18:24). Finally, Goldbelly CEO Joe Ariel joins to talk about his high-end food marketplace, being the first mover in a blossoming category, the food e-commerce market & more. (30:15)
Brad Stone, the author of "Amazon Unbound", joined to talk about Elon Musk (09:44), Amazon's workplace environment (23:25), the importance of Prime (27:17), which tech companies are most dangerous for society (51:13), & more!
Beth Kindig and Knox Ridley from the I/O Fund came on to discuss with Jason their top growth stocks, market indicators, how to manage risk in an all tech portfolio, potential big tech spin outs, Roku's incredible expansion and more!
Rapid fire news episode. First, Jason covers how a fire proofed home survived the Caldor fire, Amazon's plan to provide college for all its employees, Facebook copying Snap's glasses, Notion acquiring Automate.io & more. At the end, Jason takes a few questions from listeners and shares a story from when he ran Silicon Alley Reporter.
Coinbase CEO Brain Armstrong took to Twitter to call out the SEC for what Coinbase considers unclear guidance & hostility around their Lend product, Jason breaks down the situation (1:43). Then, to better understand how DeFi lending works Jason interviews Matt Ballensweig the Head of Institutional Lending at Genesis, a crypto prime brokerage (9:51). We close with three "Ask Jason" questions (50:23).
First Jason covers the $19M Bored Ape Yacht Club bid on Sotheby's & the Loot NFT collection launched by a Vine co-founder (1:42), and briefly covers Tether being banned from Canadian exchanges (11:07). Then serial founder and investor Joe Lonsdale joins (19:53) to discuss his companies (Palantir, Addepar, OpenGov), his new podcast "American Optimist," what regulations need to be fixed in the US, China's bold moves & more.
First, Jason discusses how to balance product vision with customer feedback in a FounderU segment (0:57). Then, actor and investor Adrian Grenier joins to discuss the launch of his new fund DuContra Ventures (20:52), the importance of saying "No" (33:24), acting (41:23) and more!
Jason chats with Miso Robotics CEO Mike Bell (1:07), about automating food preparation, filling the labor gap, the consequences of robots, growing with crowdfunding and more. Then, TWIST Producer Rachel Braun interviews Dan Toomey about the strategies he uses to run the Morning Brew TikTok account.
The Bored Ape Yacht Club NFTs have been going crazy in the secondary market, Jason brings on collector and co-founder of media site "The Infatuation" Andrew Steinthal (2:04) to chat about why he bought in, why he's not selling, and the overall mechanics of the community. Then, TWIST producer Rachel interviews the Nicole DeTommaso of Harlem VC (33:25) about how she broke into venture capital with a pitch deck!!!
First, Jason covers the kickoff of Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes' fraud trial (1:48). Then, Blokable Co-CEO & Co-Founder Aaron Holm joins (16:37) to discuss solving the housing crisis, the Phoenix Rising project (27:05), why vertical integration is the key to making modular affordable, green materials (40:53), why LA's homeless housing project went way over budget (46:46) & more.
First Jason covers the CCP banning US IPOs for big tech companies, closing the VIE loophole (1:50), then Audius Co-Founder Roneil Rumburg joins (18:44) to talk about his "decentralized SoundCloud," how decentralized crypto projects actually work for investors and executives, and more!
In the news segment, Jason covers unicorn SaaS Startup called HeadSpin has been accused of a massive fraud by the SEC and DOJ (2:06), and Pacaso real estate startup offering fractional ownership of vacation homes is causing outrage in wine country (17:35). Then, Jason interviews Not Boring's Packy McCormick (34:41), about his time at WeWork competitor Breather (36:14), turning his newsletter into a venture fund (59:12), and Packy's vision for crypto - it's one of the best explanations we've heard (1:03:17).
In today's news show, Jason covers OnlyFans being back to business as usual (1:31), the stablecoin Circle cleaning up commercial paper from their USDC reserves (16:49), and does a break down of Warby Parker's S-1 as the company prepare to go public via direct listing (30:30).
In this news episode Jason covers Facebook finally revealing their Q1 transparency report after they originally shelved the report for PR purposes (2:08), Tyga deleting his OnlyFans account and announcing he will launch a competing platform (23:59), the WSJ's coverage of where Jack Ma is now (36:19) & more!
Jason breaks down the OnlyFans' pivot away from sexual conduct (1:54), then he covers all the robot highlights from this week, Boston Dynamics robots doing backflips (23:34), Disney creating AI characters (31:25), and Tesla's announcement of "TeslaBot" (38:21) & more.
Jason breaks down the 2 metrics he uses to to assess Robinhood's Q2 earnings (1:43) and Amazon entering Department Store retail (16:39). Then, Mark Suster from Upfront Ventures joins (24:07) to discuss venture metrics, community as a moat, why high valuations don't necessarily mean a bubble & more.
Jason opens the show with a brief recap of "Noodlegate" and the end of cancel culture (2:09). Then he chats with OpenGov CEO Zac Bookman for the latest installment of our Next Unicorns series (14:10) about what makes governments ineffective (25:46), preventing corruption (30:37), the challenges selling into governments (35:54), how some states like Idaho & West Virginia have made their detailed budgets public on the cloud and more!
Podcasting from Italy after a 2-week break of news, Jason covers Casey Newton's failed dunk on Superhuman's $75M raise (2:58), the privacy implications of Apple's approach to preventing child porn distribution (23:14), the Helium Networks internet project (35:02), crypto regulation (43:03), and how WhatsApp is handling Afghanistan (49:45).
Steve Martocci, the CEO of Splice (also co-founder of Blade & previously sold GroupMe to Skype) joins for our Next Unicorns series to discuss how music rights work (10:07), growing a high-quality marketplace (21:59), AI music creation (36:10), & more
Jason discusses how founders can secure follow on funding (1:57), then is joined by investor Zach Coelius to answer listener questions on technical co-founders (38:21), successful founder traits (40:41), founder red flags (46:07), why startups fail diligence (56:17) and more.
Jason does a Founder University segment on how to generate startup ideas (1:55), then Zach Coelius joins to take some "Ask an Angel" questions: what data points are most valuable when iterating on product (29:03), what skills are most important to be a success in VC (36:410), what skills are most important to be a success in VC (42:51).
Nick Kokonas joins to discuss his his company Tock (10:50), his world-class restaurant group Alinea (0:54), how restaurants can improve their operating leverage (18:05), digital experiences augmenting hospitality (39:41), why tipping needs to be replaced (44:50), the labor supply (56:16), inflation (1:00:27), employee health and more!
Redfin CEO Glenn Kelman joins to discuss the current U.S. housing situation (05:05), homebuilding rates, San Francisco (23:43), remote work (28:22), generational work-life balance differences (35:24), Redfin's approach to real estate (46:52), regulation, DOJ & MLS (58:33), & more.
In a Founder University segment, Jason compares running a bootstrapped vs. venture-backed company (1:17), discusses 'pegasus' companies (11:09), advises what types of businesses should take VC (23:59), and explains what motivates VCs (33:27). Then Zach Coelius joins to take some listener questions (38:48).
Fitbod CEO Allen Chen joins to discuss how they got funded & why they haven't deployed their capital (01:06), the importance of being user-centric when building a consumer app (17:44), how Allen plans grow to 1 million customers (29:14), & more!
Ben Gilbert & David Rosenthal from Acquired join to discuss David's new venture fund Kindergarten Ventures (00:56), how to structure a VC fund (12:16), Jason's super pro-rata strategy (30:17), podcasting (35:50), and they tease the next episode on "The Mount Rushmore of Venture Capital" (56:11) & more!
Alex Wilhelm from TechCrunch joins Jason to chop up this week's news. They cover Robinhood & Duolingo's IPOs (3:40), consumer subscription businesses (25:09), Google's growth (28:25), the startup funding landscape (38:51), Amazon (42:46), China's actions against tech (47:35), Apple (1:04:19) & more!
Jason covers the Grand Jury indictment of Nikola founder Trevor Milton for making false claims to investors (1:50) and gives short recap of Robinhood's IPO (18:55). Then, Brandon Brown joins to discuss his company GRIN (25:40), the influencer economy, shifting advertising trends, social media platforms and more.
Jason breaks down Google's earnings and compares Netflix & Youtube (3:22). Then, in our Next Unicorns series, Devin Finzer (27:01), the Co-Founder and CEO of OpenSea (an NFT marketplace) joins to discuss the innovations that helped NFTs take off (37:58), the future of collectibles & more.
Jason covers China reigning in big tech (2:03), Tesla’s incredible Q2 earnings crossing $1B in profit (25:30), a $300M market movement from Tether to USDC (33:24), and gives a breakdown of a Binance Crypto Pump Telegram group (37:43).
Tether executives are reportedly facing a DOJ criminal probe for bank fraud! Jason breaks down Bloomberg's report (1:31), Tether's response (10:34) and assesses potential implications for the wider crypto ecosystem, including if this had anything to do with Sunday night's Bitcoin surge. (16:29)
In this rapid fire news episode, Jason covers a16z-backed Dfinity's crypto class action complaint (02:46), Snapchat and Twitter's massive earnings (19:33), the CCP considering turning it's ed-tech sector non-profit (34:15), Alphabet's new company (40:23), San Francisco's 17M sq. ft. of vacant office space (47:22), and then reflects on some old Disney+ predictions (58:28).
Jason covers China's increasing penalties for Didi (2:52), Twitter's test of a downvote feature (12:13), and how the UAE was able to induce rain with electricity (17:32). Then Do Kwon, the founder of Terraform labs joins (22:38) to discuss his stable coin project TerraUSD (31:18), the underlying cryptocurrency LUNA, and shed light on Tether as crypto insider (59:56).
In the news segment, Jason reacts to the Tether CTO & General Counsel's interview on CNBC (2:22) and digs in to Netflix's latest earnings report (37:35). Then, Vincent founder Slava Rubin joins to discuss all things alternative assets (44:26), his work founding Indiegogo, Launch’s investment, trading cards (1:17:19) & more.
In news Jason covers Bezos reaching space (2:32), Robinhood's S-1/A (13:28), Circle's new USDC attestation (22:25), crypto crackdown in Asia (36:06), Zoom buying Five9 for almost $15B (46:00) Keith Rabois' OpenStore (47:11). Then for our Next Unicorns series, Jason interviews Flock Safety CEO Garrett Langely, about reducing crime in American cities and neighborhoods (50:18).
Jason covers Anthony Bourdain's amazing AI deepfake voice in "roadrunner" & potential startup ideas for the technology (01:49), the investigation into EV startup Lordstown Motors (12:27), and the way businesses are reacting to how COVID is being managed in FL & CA (42:11).
News episode, Jason covers CrowdTangle's data headache (01:56), how the White House wants to crack down on social media misinformation (13:34), Florida Gov. DeSantis proposal for providing internet to Cuba (17:17), a $1B fund for creators (21:32), our Tether investigation (25:07) & more!
To kick off this season of "The Next Unicorns," Adena Hefets, CEO of Divvy Homes, joins to discuss how they are helping Americans blaze a path to owning a home (2:51), if we are in a real estate bubble (25:37), the American home shortage (34:53) and more!
Jason covers the war on excellence in public education (2:05), signs of AWS maturity (19:04), France's $592M antitrust fine for Google (30:28). Then discusses AI Farms with AppHarvest CTO Josh Lessing (47:43) covering building with robots (1:16:03), improved crop yields (1:24:43), climate change & more.
Jason covers the CCP crackdown on Chinese tech companies listing in the US, shares how he spots winning founders (14:02), then answers Ask Jason questions: finding a technical co-founder (36:47), signals for startup success (39:29), advice for new angel investors (45:18), and more.
Jason covers Biden's executive order seeking to increase competition and weaken the power of Big Tech (2:21). Then, we continue our Tether Investigation with @Bitfinex'ed (18:16), covering how Tether works (36:09), and why he believes there is massive risk to the crypto markets (48:55) & more!
First, Jason breaks down the highlights from Nextdoor's SPAC announcement (1:48) and covers the profits made by politicians trading tech company options (16:26). Then, Alex Lieberman, Co-Founder & Executive Chairman of Morning Brew, joins to talk about growing a newsletter business (45:34), expanding as a media company (49:51), angel investing (57:19) & more!
Jason covers the red flags emerging around Binance (2:34), the Chinese government's swift action against Didi relating to data privacy (16:40). Then Steezy Founder & CEO Evan Zhou joins to discuss how simple an MVP can be (27:44), growing & monetizing a consumer SaaS company (32:56) & more.
Robinhood is going public! Jason breaks down their recently filed S-1 and covers the most important metrics (1:56), comparisons against other major brokerages (8:45) and more!
First Jason explains how to deliver great investor updates & the benefits of doing them well (1:36). Then, Ginkgo Bioworks CEO Jason Kelly joins to discuss the expanding capabilities of synthetic biology (24:48), how Ginkgo is currently helping customers make products more effectively (35:58), the ethics & risks of editing DNA (51:53) & more!
In the opening News segment Jason covers Sam Altman launching a new cryptocurrency "Worldcoin" (2:18), and Facebook becoming the fastest company to ever reach a $1T market cap (11:16). Then, Alchemy CEO Nikil Viswanathan joins for an interview on his "AWS for the blockchain" (20:44), the limitations of the blockchain (29:24) & more! Podcast Notes: https://bit.ly/1238notes
News episode Jason talks about Peter Thiel’s multi-billion dollar Roth IRA (1:27), Black creators striking on TikTok (13:32), BuzzFeed's SPAC (24:15), Microsoft's dig at Apple (31:28), and two Ask Jason questions (41:59)!
First, Jason does a "Founder University" segment on the benefits of remote managing using a SOD-EOD format (1:31). Then Bill Maris joins to discuss what working at Google was like when Bill started GV (25:28), why Google didn't win on social (38:49), bioterrorism risks (1:07:39) & more.
Jason covers the recent Chinese Bitcoin mining migration (1:56). Then, Dan Porter the CEO of Overtime joins to discuss how Overtime is building a next-generation sports network across Youtube, Twitch, & social media (15:12) and launching Overtime Elite a new basketball league where 16-18-year-olds can earn $100-$500K to prepare for the pros.
Intercom CEO Des Traynor discusses why startups need to grow fast (7:44), how to execute at speed (10:48), build an effective culture (33:35) & more!
Jason kicks off the episode with the news: an update on the Tether (02:02), how Gamestop poached Amazon talent (06:17), and the first-ever decline in the average number of streaming accounts per household (19:04). Then, Akash Nigam joins to discuss his company Genies, why everyone will have an avatar, the metaverse, NTFs & more (25:10).
Jason kicks off the episode with research into the claims against Tether Limited, the company behind USDT, the world's largest "stablecoin" and 3rd largest cryptocurrency (1:30). Then Jason is joined by 3 founders of Alternative Asset investing platforms (25:49), Chris Bruno of Rally, Scott Lynn of Masterworks, and Ben Miller of Fundrise. They discuss inflation, supply & demand, expanding company roadmaps (59:56) and more!
Jason opens with a Founder University segment on "Startup Math" (1:48), then interviews Zymergen CEO Josh Hoffman on Biofacturing (16:45), how DNA sequencing & machine learning are enabling materials science advancements (26:35), what human capital is needed for the industry (42:53) & more. Pod Notes: http://bit.ly/1231notes
First up, Jason covers "Bitcoin Toxicity." Are Bitcoin maximalists exhibiting cult-like behavior? (1:19) Then, he assesses the risks of Bezos going to space: is the potential upside worth the risk of ruin? (36:16) Finally, he wraps with news of Facebook's rumored smartwatch. Have Apple's recent privacy measures forced Facebook's hand into the wearables space? (40:59)
Customer success is key to startup success. First, Statusphere CEO Kristen Wiley shares strategies from managing two customer success teams in B2B and B2C. (1:00) Then, find out why customers churn from Techmate COO Nicole Beals, who also shares how Techmate increased their customer retention rate from 70% to 98%. (27:07) To wrap, Jason leads a Q&A covering compensation, productizing customer moments, and more. (40:41)
Chris Urmson the CEO of Aurora, a leading self-driving company, joins Jason to recount the history of autonomous vehicles (1:06), the roadmap for removing human drivers (16:47), what technology problems are left to solve (38:25) and more!
Jason gives his take on the letter from a group of employees to Tim Cook about Apple's return to work (1:00), then Fatima Dicko the CEO and Founder of Sugar discusses pivoting in the pandemic (25:54), what amenities apartments will offer in the future (45:39), and more. Then Jason wraps with a "button" on investing when valuations are high, where there is value to be found, and more (58:44). http://bit.ly/e1227tnotes
Jason covers the bankruptcy of the Softbank-backed construction startup Katerra, Bill Ackman's Universal Music SPAC, then interviews Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi about portable benefits for independent contractors, the expanding UberEats business, local commerce and more!
Kayvon Beykpour, Twitter's Head of Product shares the strategy behind Twitter's recent feature releases, what structural changes enabled Twitter to increase product velocity, how they segment composers & consumers, the Twitter blue launch & more!
A low-burn rate gives startups the agility they need to succeed and weather unforeseen challenges. Two CEOs join Jason to discuss how founders can make the most of their limited capital. Ben Seidl of Neyborly covers managing burn rate (2:58), Lil Roberts of Xendoo shares the steps needed to maintain financial health, then Jason joins for a Q&A on how to create a slingshot business(48:48), the appropriate level of runway (55:02) & more.
Jason breaks down the Citizen App's recent mistake of putting a $30,000 bounty on an incorrect arson suspect (01:39), assesses the merits of an "Uber for private security" (17:15), and covers Coinbase's launch of their self-titled "Fact Check" media arm (37:32).
Ben Gilbert & David Rosenthal of Acquired join Jason to talk about Bitcoin's recent price action (5:55), the cognitive dissonance of liking both Bitcoin and Berkshire (14:27), Amazon's acquisition of MGM (39:34), and more!
Two CEOs join to talk about intentionally creating and maintaining a workplace culture that delivers high performance. First, 15five's David Hassel shares how to build culture at scale (1:49), then Balloon's Amanda Greenberg shares a process to help leaders navigate hybrid work (26:00). To wrap, Jason joins for a Q&A session covering workplace political speech, compensation, remote work, and negotiations (42:00).
Jason hits the recent restrictions on crypto from the U.S. and China, Robinhood allowing users to get in at IPO prices, and Antonio García Martínez's chat with Kara Swisher (1:15). Then in the main segment, Magic Soon Cereal Co-Founder Gabi Lewis discusses the difference between a good product and product-market fit (25:47), how Magic Spoon does influencer marketing (45:25), classic cereal flavors & more!
Emergency pod! Bitcoin sees a major correction due to China's crack down (1:46). What are the chances it could it go to zero, and could China banning crypto be a blessing in disguise? Robinhood is rumored to be going public next month (14:14), what will their market cap be at IPO? Plus Squarespace goes public via direct listing (26:10)!
This episode is full of tactical advice for improving your marketing operations. Gravitr's Doriane Mouret explains how to improve your conversion funnels (3:28), Outlaw's Danielle Vincent shares how to improve your SEO (33:45), then Jason joins for a Q&A covering the right cadence, location, and quality of content to publish (47:21).
Jason covers Amazon's talks to acquire MGM, AT&T's spin-off of WarnerMedia to Discovery, and Dapper Labs lawsuit about the nature of NFTs (1:00). Then, NYT journalist Taylor Lorenz joins to discuss the implications of social media & its more reckless influencers (15:21), why she prefers to write for the New York Times instead of a lucrative Substack offer (48:50), and more!
Jason shares insights on the Twitter Blue leak (1:40) then breaks down recent product innovations, Twitter's 2021 acquisition spree, and what it all means (15:05). Check out the pod notes: https://bitly.com/e1216notes
Zach Coelius joins Jason to answer live listener questions (1:09), and then the pair discuss Apple's recent debacle in firing Antonio Garcia Martinez after being pressured by employees (42:43). Check out the pod notes here: https://bitly.com/e1215notes
This episode reveals the product strategies of two of Jason's high-performing portfolio companies, Superhuman & Fitbod. First, Superhuman's Founder & CEO Rahul Vohra shares his 7 principles for improving products with game design (01:40), then Fitbod's CO-founder and Product Head Jesse Venticique describes how to optimize your product hook (20:08), and to wrap up, Jason brings the two together for a Q&A session (36:44). Pod Notes: http://bit.ly/e1214tnotes
Jason gives his take on Facebook's Instagram Kids initiative (0:53), then, Ōura's CEO Harpreet Rai discusses how sleep & recovery scores are calculated (25:09), how Oura works with the NBA & enterprise to keep organizations healthy (50:49), and more! Pod Notes: http://bit.ly/e1213tnotes
Jason & Charles Hudson from Precursor Ventures take 8 pitches from founders and give feedback on how the pitches were structured (13:10) and their business models (38:48). Pod Notes: http://bit.ly/twist1212
Jason covers the Facebook Oversight Board's decision on Trump (15:49), gives a potential solution for bad actors on social media that are of public consequence (39:25), provides a concrete way to reverse engineer TAM (55:00), and more!
Two startup CEOs share their approach to fundraising, Andrew Farah explains the strategy he used to raise $100M for Density (03:58), Dejan simplifies his community-forming principles for SoleSavy (38:27), and both give tactical lessons from the mistakes they made along the way (46:23)! Deck: https://bit.ly/3b8gz8g
Morgan Spenla shares why her company Crafter delivers a wonderful experience to makers (01:06), how they monetize (15:04), why she hires customer support from Starbucks (48:07), and more!
Jason weighs in on Basecamp's ban of political discussion at work (10:57), the ensuing employee exodus (22:40), shares his policy for his companies (26:32), answers a listener's question about how to surround yourself with great people (40:09), and more! Pod Notes: http://bit.ly/e1208Tnotes
Tiger Global, a crossover hedge fund, is moving at an unprecedented speed and scale in venture capital. Everett Randle of Founder's Fund joins Jason to break down Tiger Global's strategy, discuss the implications for the investing ecosystem (13:14), explain his "Walmart of VC firms" mental model (24:42), and more! Pod Notes: http://bit.ly/E1207Tnotes
A high-functioning sales machine is a way to predictably scale revenue quickly. Two 8-figure B2B SaaS CEOs share the lessons they've learned from building effective sales teams including how to create an effective sales motion (2:49), structure a sales pod (12:00), hire a great VP of sales (15:10), train SDRs into AEs (28:55), deal with average performers (47:54), and more! Slide Deck Slide Deck: http://bit.ly/SYS-S2E3-Deck
Arlan Hamilton of Backstage Capital discusses her $5M crowdfunding raise on Republic (04:16), what's "popping" in her current portfolio (20:06), her founder education course (49:46), and more! Check out the pod notes here: http://bit.ly/1205podnotes
Jason dives deep on Apple vs. Facebook: the numbers, the philosophical differences, the potential outcomes & more! (5:05) Check out the full pod notes here: http://bit.ly/e1204podnotes
Crossover technology investor Brad Gerstner discussed Altimeter Capital taking Grab public in the largest SPAC ever (38:55), why the IPO process is broken and how to fix it (12:55), and the responsibility of people with platforms to encourage responsible retail investing (22:12). As well as, how $2000 for every American invested in the public markets at birth would display the power of capitalism to improve lives (50:50) and more!
Jason is joined by two outstanding CEOs running marketing companies, Mehak Vohra (Skillbank) & Kate Bradley-Chernis (Lately). Mehak shared the strategies she used to drive signups for Skillbank on TikTok(2:57). Kate shared her top business writing techniques (18:48), how to create engagement for B2B sales on LinkedIn (24:15), and more! To see the deck discussed in this episode go to https://bit.ly/3tA7sVb
Jason reacts to all of Apple's most notable product releases from their Spring Loaded event: Apple Podcasts redesign (2:43), AirTags (13:09), M1 iMac (20:08), M1 iPad Pro (25:15) & more!
First Jason discusses Clubhouse's facing new competition in social audio from Reddit and others (2:44). Then, he asks Crypto investor & entrepreneur MetaKovan why he bought Beeple’s "Everydays" NFT at a Christie's auction for $69M (23:30), what crypto assets he is invested in (28:29), and more!
New format! Jason's EOW (End of Week): Jason wraps up the week covering some current events he's interested in, explaining things he's been working on (0:00), and answering fan questions live (14:56).
Kendrick Nguyen of Republic, an early-stage investing platform, talks about the power of the retail investor crowd, how startups can convert their followers into investors (13:05), Republic's diligence process for deals on their platform (47:46), and more!
Jason reflects on Coinbase's monumental direct listing (0:00), then tosses to a November 2017 interview featuring Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong (6:21). Check out the pod notes here: https://rb.gy/1vlx74
Growth experts Craig Zingerline (Growth University) and Allen Chen (Fitbod) cover how startups can grow their user base, including tactical tips and best practices on building a growth model, acquiring and activating customers, retaining users, measuring performance and more. Check out the deck here: https://rb.gy/fb94ib
Dapper Labs CEO Roham Gharegozlou discusses his vision for NFTs and why he created Flow blockchain, how he used CryptoKitties' success to secure the NBA Top Shot partnership (12:26), how building platforms on the blockchain can potentially erode Facebook's power (43:25) and more!
Hank Leber, co-founder of Giggster, talks about growing their production location marketplace, onboarding 10,000 locations from a totally offline process and building "Airbnb for professional locations" (0:00). He shares Giggster's fundraising history and the impact of raising at Remote Demo Day (17:35), and also dives into common use cases and more (30:05)! Check out the advanced pod notes here: https://bit.ly/twist-notes-giggster
FOUNDERS! Apply to pitch 7000+ angel investors at Remote Demo Day here: https://remotedemoday.com
First, Jason answers fan questions on attracting VCs and the 3 key metrics for consumer, enterprise SaaS and marketplace startups (1:32), then Snack App CEO Kim Kaplan joins to talk about her new Tinder-meets-TikTok dating app (15:21). For in-depth podcast notes, click here: https://bit.ly/E1195-TwistNotes
Season 9 Episode 1: TWISTA Patron Saint Jason Calacanis joins us to kick off series 9 with a deep dive into the post-pandemic startup world – and the virtuous cycle of successful startups.
Today's show features a throwback format, where Jason answers a fan question about his early blind spots in angel investing (1:54), is joined by Canny.io Founder Sarah Hum (9:08), and then shares his thoughts on the growing "creator economy" (34:22). Check out the advanced pod notes here: https://rb.gy/mqxls8
Wilson Sonsini Partner Becki DeGraw joins Jason for another discussion around common first-time founder mistakes. Topics include avoiding founder legal disputes, no vesting on shares, IP protection, super-voting shares and more! Check out the full Startup Basics series at https://thisweekinstartups.com/basics
Check out Jason's SPAC Deck: https://rb.gy/9txa6c
FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis
Show notes:
0:00 Jason intros today's Epod: SPAC Overload!
1:29 OurCrowd - Sign up for a free account at https://www.ourcrowd.com/twist
2:55 Current state of SPACs - how did we get here & how do SPACs work?
9:12 Comparing SPACs, IPOs & Direct Listings
13:19 SPAC renaissance starting in 2020, comparison vs. S&P 500, understanding the recent pullback
16:59 Top SPACS by market cap, revenue, speculation & top active & upcoming SPACs
26:22 Wrap up!
Jason and WSJ Reporter Amy Dockser Marcus break down the alleged uBiome fraud! Check out the Pod Notes here: https://rb.gy/tjw046
Blogger, businesswoman, angel investor and Gotham Gal Joanne Wilson joins Angel to catch up with Jason. They discuss portfolio management in a peak market, spotting a bubble, funding underestimated founders and more! Check out the full pod notes here: https://rb.gy/dnh55t
Shopify CEO Tobi Lütke joins Jason for a conversation covering how software compounds innovation, pandemic lessons, making entrepreneurship trivial on the internet and more! Pod notes here: https://rb.gy/zihcmw
Fish consumption is on the rise, but the earth's exploitable fish supply is dwindling. And becoming more polluted. And expensive. Finless Foods is looking to solve this scarcity with biotechnology. CEO Mike Selden explains his clean fish, an affordable, healthy, sustainable seafood he's growing with cutting-edge cell culture tech. And Jason tastes it!
E782: Founder.University Startup Tuneup: Jason & Brian Alvey dissect& perfect pitches in 7 verticals by This Week in Startups
Filmed at LAUNCH SCALE 2017: Matrix Partners' David Skok breaks down how to get inside your buyer's head to increase funnel conversion rates; Maren Kate Donovan's lessons from building Zirtual to $11m/yr & losing it overnight.
David's deck: http://www.launchscale.net/david-skok Maren's deck: http://www.launchscale.net/maren-kate-donovan
E780: News Roundtable! Peter Rojas & Iain Thomson: Tesla, Apple, StitchFix, backflipping robots by This Week in Startups
E779: Brian Armstrong Coinbase &Tim Draper: crypto matures, ICO v VC, fiat end, bitcoin resiliency by This Week in Startups
Filmed at LAUNCH Scale 2017: Greylock's Josh Elman (prev. FB, Twitter) breaks down the only metric that matters for hyper-growth; Talla's Rob May (prev. Backupify) presents his step-by-step guide for whether blockchain/ICO is right for your startup.
Josh deck: https://news.greylock.com/the-only-metric-that-matters-now-with-fancy-slides-232474cf414c Rob deck: http://www.launchscale.net/robmay
Today: two startups making a difference in the world. First, AID:Tech uses blockchain to prevent donation fraud by issuing digital identities to the undocumented -- thus combatting the 4.4 trillion dollars lost each year because of fraud corruption and lack of transparency. Jason talks to co-founder Naill Dennehy. Second, RoboKind robots teach social & emotional skills to children with autism. This technology is very effective, as these children have trouble with traditional therapy; the robots' curriculum engage them 87% of the time, compared to 3% with therapists using the same curriculum. Co-founder Richard Margolin joins remotely with the robots to demo.
At LAUNCH SCALE 2017, Jason sits down with two leaders defining the future of investment. Chamath Palihapitiya, who grew Facebook and went on to found VC powerhouse Social Capital, sets us straight on the state of venture capital and markets today, and what we need to do to win. It’s a turbulent time to say the least; investors need to help founders hunker down and restructure how they’re spending money and get their business models working for escape velocity. (Hint: this does not include the use of ICOs, for which Chamath has many choice words….) Next is David Eun, President of Samsung NEXT who talks to Jason about his formidable work at AOL and Google, which led to him to Samsung and helping founders and startups. David nurtures innovation by meeting entrepreneurs wherever they are, a strategy that’s paying off with 23 (and counting) acquisitions in transformative software, including Smart Things leader in smart home. Exciting days.
Billions of dollars are gushing into ICOs (Initial Coin Offerings). But with every dollar emerges more questions about what purchasers are actually getting. And as reality sets in, the law suits begin. (Tezos, on this program for after raising their record $232m, was just sued by CA Superior Court for violating securities laws & defrauding participants.) Today's guest, Andy Bromberg, is trying is steer this runaway train with a new financial services platform, CoinList, a kind of one-stop shop for compliance, anti-money laundering, vetting, investor accreditation & more. A collaboration of AngelList & Protocol Labs, CoinList ran Filecoin's massive $205m+ ICO and is now an independent management platform for all ICOs. Andy and Jason talk about the risks and rewards of this explosive token market, the problem of bad actors, bitcoin v. ethereum, proceeding boldly but cautiously, and much more.
In today's emergency bonus episode of TWiST, the topic is Facebook, Google, and Twitter testifying to Congress about Russia's interference in the U.S. 2016 presidential election. The two-day testimony saw no shortage of shocking revelations, most notably that more than 150 million people saw Russian-bought propaganda or divisive ads on Facebook alone -- which is more people than voted in the election itself. Lon Harris and Austin Smith from Inside.com join Jason to dissect the congressional proceedings, why & how the interference occurred, and future ramifications for the tech giants and society.
E774: All #AskJason: pitches, VCs & angels, bootstrapping, SaaS & enterprise, revenue, diversity by This Week in Startups
Cryptocurrency & ICOs are the definitive talk of tech today. Two of the field’s greatest innovators, Brock Pierce (Blockchain Capital & Block.one) & Vinny Lingham (Civic) joined Jason at LAUNCH SCALE 2017 to discuss how we arrived at arguably the most disruptive moment since the internet began, how this new decentralized web & tokens actually work, and where we are headed. Bubbles, altcoins, predictions, bitcoin classic v. cash v. gold, the democratization of capital, the disappearance of VC, why Vinny turned to ICOs to raise $33m, how Brock’s EOS, at over $600m and rapidly climbing, is smashing every crypto record to date -- and much more.
Pure hustle, tireless fighting, and (sometimes) unadulterated dumb luck are just a few of the reasons why this star investor panel has succeeded when others have failed. Filmed at LAUNCH SCALE 2017, Ben Narasin (NEA), Arlan Hamilton (Backstage Capital) & Zach Coelius (Angel, Syndicate Lead) share what motivates them to make bets, the specific qualities in founders they come back to again and again, lessons from 80+ investments w/50% Series A conversations & 3 unicorns (Ben), from selling candy to building a portfolio of 55+ startups (Arlan), to hitting a $1b exits in just 2 years as an angel (Zach), and market outlook for 2017 and beyond.
First up at Stockholm Tech Fest 2017 hosted by Tyler Crowley, Jason talks to David Helgason, founder of Unity, the leading creation game engine in the world. Then Jason and Tyler head over to the Future of Investing and talk with BackingMinds, Norrsken & Wellstreet about the fundraising scene in Europe and hear pitches from their favorite startups.
E766: Casey Winters (Greylock, Pinterest, Grubhub) on how to measure retention & product-market fit by This Week in Startups
At Stockholm Tech Fest 2017: Pirate Bay co-founder Peter Sunde talks with Jason about his P2P revolution for global technology access & impact, lessons he learned from the resulting jail time, our completely broken democracy, the total death of privacy, redefining politics & what to hope for, his continued activism & entrepreneurship, & the frightening specter of President Zuckerberg.
On today's News Roundtable, Molly Wood of Marketplace & Sarah Frier of Bloomberg join Jason to talk the biggest news of the week: Facebook deploying Russian money for ads during the election. The ethics of FB ad targeting, Zuckerberg's intentions, targeting ads by race are all dissected here, including: what will the next FB bombshell? The trio also covers the latest from Apple launch, A.I.'s (questionable) identification of sexual orientation, Instagram v. Snap influencers, the Bodega blow-up -- and more!
Today’s guest features CEO of Front, Mathilde Collin. Originally based in France, she moved her company of 17 people to Silicon Valley and now has thousands of customers for her enterprise product, which is currently used by Tesla, Cisco, Dropbox, and our very own Inside.com. She went to Y Combinator and has raised $10m+ from some of the most famous investors in the industry, including Dave Morin of Slow Ventures, Alexis Ohanian of Reddit, and Stewart Butterfield of Slack. She is in the studio to talk about her product, Front, which is a collaborative inbox for businesses. Front is like a beautiful LEGO box with every possible feature you need to improve your email workflow. Join us as Jason and Mathilde explore how Front streamlines communication, the competitive landscape with Slack and Zendesk, the impact of machine learning and AI on customer support, work culture in France vs. Silicon Valley, and more. Plus, find out Mathilde’s secret to keeping her team happy.
About This Episode:
Today on the program, we are going full science fiction with a company that is at the forefront of the VR revolution, Leap Motion. They are making great progress in this space, recently raising $50m from investors like Bill Warner, Founders Fund, and Andreessen Horowitz. Join us as CEO and co-founder, Michael Buckwald, talks about his mission to remove the barriers between people and technology, his 10-year journey of funding before product-market fit, Leap Motion’s 3D motion-control technology, AR/VR predictions, and more.
Tim O'Reilly is one of the great thought leaders in the history of technology. His much anticipated book (coming 10/10), called "WTF: What’s the Future & Why It’s Up to Us,” breaks down his lessons & observations from a life in tech to draws a roadmap for our future economic survival.
Today's episode features two emerging startups tackling two critical health problems around the world. MedAware & CEO/co-founder Gidi Stein are focused on eliminating prescription errors using AI/Machine Learning, flagging mistakes in real-time, saving real costs & human lives. Dustin Jefferson Onghanseng, co-founder of uHoo, has created a device & app that monitors & distributes information about local air quality & provides insights based on user data.
Today, we’re going to get a lot smarter about ICOs and cryptocurrencies with today’s guest, Kathleen Breitman, co-founder of Dynamic Ledger Solutions, which has developed Tezos, a new blockchain-based smart contract platform with an on-chain governance mechanism to coordinate and push upgrades to its network. Tezos is making major waves right now with its recent record-breaking $232m ICO and ongoing fundraising in the Crypto Valley that is Zug, Switzerland. Join us in this special episode as Jason and Kathleen do a deep dive into her new cryptocurrency project, how it’s different from Ethereum, running a fundraiser with a Swiss non-profit foundation, the cypherpunk movement, and the long-term impact of cryptocurrency.
If you’ve been paying attention, blockchain, bitcoin, Ethereum, and ICOs are hot topics. After talking about cryptocurrency for a few years on This Week in Startups, it is now having its shining moment, with one bitcoin trading at over $4000. Our guest today, Peter Smith, is the CEO & co-founder of Blockchain, the leading integrated bitcoin platform that makes using different blockchains easy. Join us as Peter distills bitcoin, cryptocurrency, and blockchain fundamentals, regulatory issues and why the U.S. is slower in the cryptospace, effects on the dark web, ICO predictions, and more.
From the Whole Earth Review to Wired magazine, to his many books, Kevin Kelly has been at the leading edge in chronicling technology’s impact on society. In this thought-provoking and inspiring interview, Kevin provides an optimistic roadmap for the future, and explains how the upcoming changes in our lives, such as the soft singularity of AI, can be understood as the result of a few long-term, accelerating forces. Join us as Jason and Kevin explore an array of topics, including the psychological impact of the internet, China’s exporting culture, the future of jobs, the power of harnessing humans at a new scale, and more.
Today, we are lucky to have a legendary tech pioneer on the program, someone who has been building tech products since tech startups started in the 1970’s and 1980’s, Jim Clark. He founded several notable Silicon Valley technology companies, including Silicon Graphics, Inc., Netscape Communications Corporation, myCFO, and Healtheon. His research work in computer graphics led to the development of systems for the fast rendering of three-dimensional computer images. Today, he announces the launch of his latest business venture, CommandScape, the only integrated building management system for commercial and premium residential properties. Join us as he shares about his journey from the early days at Netscape & Silicon Graphics, leading the computer graphics revolution, and his vision on the future of security, jobs & what makes startups and founders successful.
News Roundtable! Ari Levy (CNBC) & Dave Mathews (NewAer) are in the studio to talk with Jason about the latest tech news. On tap: the CEO rebellion against Trump's advisory councils, Cloudflare and the regulation of content on the internet, Amazon and its third-party sellers, Snap and Blue Apron IPO’s, Uber’s deal with the FCC, and the latest in Bitcoin.
E3: "Angel" podcast: Andrea Zurek, XG Ventures (Facebook, Twitter) & angel since 2006 by This Week in Startups
Filmed live on stage at the 2017 LAUNCH Angel Summit in Napa Valley, Jason interviews Esther Dyson, journalist and technology investor turned wellness enthusiast, who is on a mission to better health by rethinking and recreating the environment in which it can thrive. In this special episode of TWiST, Jason and Esther discuss the progression of angel investing over the years, the complexities around U.S. and Russia relations, predictions of AR, VR, & self-driving cars, real-world issues including diabetes and income volatility, and more.
Filmed live at Spotify NYC, Jason interviews Charles Duhigg, Pulitzer Prize winner and author of “The Power of Habit” and “Smarter Faster Better”. Charles was one of a team of New York Times reporters who won the 2013 Pulitzer Prize for Explanatory Reporting for a series of 10 articles about the business practices of Apple and other technology companies. In this special episode, he shares insights into what led him to becoming a self-help guru, the roots of Donald Trump's anti-intellectualism and how to overcome them, the immigration debate, and more. Plus, find out why SNL should have been the biggest failure on earth.
E2: "Angel" podcast: Gil Penchina shares lessons from 20 yrs & 200+ investments by This Week in Startups
Filmed live on stage at the 2017 LAUNCH Angel Summit in Napa Valley, Jason interviews industry veteran Alfred Lin. In this intimate fireside chat, Alfred shares insights into the stepping stones of his journey from Venture Frogs, to Zappos, to Sequoia Capital, where he is currently writing checks to some of the most influential startups in Silicon Valley. Alfred spends a large portion of the talk explaining why he focuses on founders who are on a “mission”. He backs his argument with examples of the types of founders and CEOs who make millions, if not billions, of dollars and still choose to continue working because they are on a mission, and that mission goes beyond just making lots and lots of money. Investment strategies from Seed to Series D, the future of venture capital, and the importance of unanimity among partners are all topics covered in detail in this special episode of TWiST.
E749: James Altucher & Jason talk “Angel”: investor & founder guidebook to new wealth creation by This Week in Startups
In under a decade, Founders Fund has become what many people would consider to be in the Top 5 in the venture capital space. Filmed live on stage at the 2017 LAUNCH Angel Summit in Napa Valley, Jason interviews Founders Fund’s top VC Brian Singerman. In this special episode of TWiST, Brian shares highlights from portfolio investments, the criteria for a Founders Fund investment, AI predictions, and more. Plus, find out the 3 parts to Brian’s approach to early stage investments and working with angel investors.
E1: "Angel" Podcast Premiere: Cyan Banister, angel investor (Uber, Thumbtack), Founders Fund VC by This Week in Startups
Artificial intelligence, machine learning, and bots are starting to get a lot of buzz, and people are saying that advances in AI is moving faster than anticipated. Our guest today, Rob May, is formerly the CEO and co-founder of Backupify, and is now the CEO and co-founder of Talla, which builds intelligent assistants to help knowledge workers better do their jobs. Talla has developed a text-based messaging assistant that uses machine learning and natural language processing to automate human resources & IT tasks. Join us as Rob explains why bots are a better interface, what sets Talla apart from the AI space, and shares his predictions on AI’s impact on jobs.
Food is one of the hardest spaces that any founder can operate in. Food should be innovated upon, and we should be having many more services and products that make our life more delightful. But, we’ve seen more failures than successes here in Silicon Valley. Our guest today, Tovala founder and CEO, believes he will crack the space with his cloud-connected “smart oven” that cooks ready-made meals in under 30 minutes with the scan of a code and the touch of a button. In fact, Tovala is launching today, July 11. Join us as David shares his approach to funding and scaling, his thoughts on the Amazon and Whole Foods acquisition, how he defines success, and more.
News Roundtable! Robert Scoble of Transformation Group.io & Iain Thomson of The Register UK are in the studio to talk with Jason about the latest tech news. On tap: the latest in Apple AR, iPhone’s 10th anniversary and what drove the smartphone revolution, how data collection is destroying privacy, Amazon’s acquisition of Whole Foods and what this means for Blue Apron and other meal delivery services, Google’s decision to stop scanning Gmail for ad purposes/data tracking, Binary Capital and the Justin Caldbeck scandal, Trump’s incoherent tweets, and a candid discussion about Uber’s future.
This Week in Startups is a show about entrepreneurship, investing, technology, and media. Our guest today is able to speak to all of those areas. Kevin Rose is an angel investor, venture capitalist, podcaster, and serial entrepreneur best known for building companies like Digg, Revision3, and Milk. He recently moved from NY to join True Ventures as a venture partner. Join us as Kevin and Jason discuss what makes a good startup and a good product, how to source deals, the benefit of mediation for entrepreneurs, and more.
Laura Huang is a Professor of Management and Entrepreneurship at the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania. Laura’s research examines how an investor’s gut feel plays a role in innovation and entrepreneurial decision making. She explores how perceptions and cues influence an individual’s ability to make important, high-stakes decisions, how attractiveness and gender affect pitch success, and if investors are behaving differently in those circumstances because of the valid pressure on the investment community to see more diversity. Join us in this thought-provoking discussion about the known unknowns in the angel investing space, Jason’s theory of investment, and what meritocracy really means in Silicon Valley.
Founder & CEO Ryan Carson was a guest on TWiST Episode 198, and he returns today to talk about Treehouse, his online trade school for adults that does one thing really well: taking anybody who has never coded from zero to job-ready. Ryan figured out how to reduce the cost of a computer science degree ($58k) down to 2% of that, with complete geographic and time shifting freedom. Join us as he and Jason debate the value of apprenticeships and explore the way traditional universities are run.
We are pleased to have one of Jason’s investments as our guest today, Robinhood co-founder Vlad Tenev. Tenev went to Stanford in 2004 looking to become an academic, first studying physics and later math. During this time, he met and became good friends with his co-founder Baiju Bhatt. Together, they started a bootstrapped and profitable software company called Chronos Research, which was formed to respond to the increased influence of algorithmic trading in the financial industry. This inspired them to build something bigger than just software that helps hedge funds and banks optimize their trading. Robinhood is a no-fee stock trading app with a mission to open up access to the American financial system. So, whereas other discount brokerages charge $7-$10 for every trade and have account minimums of $500-$2,000, with Robinhood, there are no minimums and no trading commissions, thus tapping into an underserved part of the market. Join us to learn how Robinhood went from a clever idea to a billion dollar valuation.
Most days at startups, you have more problems than you have solutions, and more bad days than good days. As an angel investor, as a founder, and as host of 700+ episodes of TWiST, Jason constantly receives questions from founders and superfans about startups. Today, he offers timeless advice — from why most startups fail after product market fit has been achieved, to his thoughts on the state of VC in consumer apps, from patent protection, to fundamental ways to transition into a long-term thinking company. Plus, find out what lesson Jason learned the hard way.
LAUNCH Festival 2017 kicked off with a unique twist. Live equity crowdfunding was offered for a handful of companies that were simultaneously listed on the SeedInvest platform, which connects venture capital, angel investors and accredited investors. These companies each delivered a 3 minute explanatory pitch to a host of judges. Today, we are going to share 6 companies that pitched at this year’s Festival. The first company is Swiftmile, a solar-powered electric bike sharing system for corporate commuters. Next is Lendsnap, which powers mortgage lending with unparalleled financial data access for lenders and their borrowers. Then Kylie.ai pitches autonomous A.I. that clones personalities to automate communication. Next is LEAF, which is smartphone “plug and plant” app to help you grow marijuana (and more). Then NowRX pitches their mobile app that offers same day free delivery for prescriptions. The final company is Laugh.ly, which is a streaming radio app dedicated to comedy.
News Roundtable! Molly Wood of Marketplace and Ben Parr of Octane AI are in the studio to talk with Jason about the latest tech news. On tap: the relevance of net neutrality for the startup economy, what lies ahead for Google Lens, Uber Freight connecting truck drivers with shipments, Biz Stone's return to Twitter, Elon Musk's new underground tunnel project, drone skydiving, and more.
Today’s TWiST is a special episode that is focused on “The Syndicate,” which is a group of 20 world-class investors in Silicon Valley that will listen to 7 top startups pitch across 7 verticals every 6 weeks. These fascinating startups are selected based upon the feedback of the 20 angel investors - who has the most traction, the most viable product, and are companies that could be meaningful in the future. Each company will present for 3 minutes, followed by 6 minutes of feedback. Join us to learn how to effectively present your company and answer hard questions. And if you’re thinking about becoming an investor, this is a great primer at how to look at a company and the right questions to ask.
Featured startups:
- Cafe X: The world's first robot barista
- Connected Signals: Bridges the gap between autonomous vehicles and crucial capabilities
- Blokable: Ship homes that are modular, stackable, and smart
- Tueo Health: Transforms the way we care for asthma
- Interviewed: Combines structured job assessments and employee testing to identify the strongest job candidates accurately and easily
- PowerScout: AI Enabled Marketplace for Smart Home Improvement
- Underground Cellar: Online wine deals w/o bastardizing brands
It’s Part 2 of Inside LAUNCH Incubator. In this hour, we will meet 4 more innovative startups that have gone through the Incubator, learn about their products, give and receive candid feedback about the highly competitive Incubator, key takeaways, struggles, the funding process, and more. The first founder is David Bennahum and his startup Ready, which is a cross-platform programming environment for personal robotics that makes robotics accessible to all of us. Next is founder Jennifer Simchowitz of Keepster, which is a toolkit to curate your text messages and keep what matters most by turning them into books and cards. Then co-founder Jesse Lakes pitches Genius Link, which solves the geo-fragmentation challenge in a world of global e-commerce. The final founder is Dan Grueter and his startup Poppins, which is an invitation-based childcare service that uses a care algorithm to source the best caretaker in the Poppins network based on a family’s specific needs.
There’s a new way to make stock market predictions. Numerai, a hedge fund based in San Francisco, has gained a following as the first hedge fund that gives stock market data to machine learning data scientists using structure-preserving encryption to prevent them from mimicking the fund’s trades themselves. Several thousand anonymous data scientists compete to create the best trading algorithms—and win bitcoin for their efforts. At the same time, the company carefully organizes this encrypted data in a way that allows the data scientists to build models that are potentially able to make better trades. Founder Richard Craib believes that Numerai can become even more successful if it can align the incentives of everyone involved. His hope is that his new kind of currency, Numeraire, will turn online competition into a collaboration—and turn Wall Street on its head in the process.
E728: “Angel” Sneak Peek+Startup Tune-up: First-look & lessons from Jason's book + pitches by This Week in Startups
Filmed at LAUNCH Festival 2017, Jason sits down with Alex Garden of Zume Pizza, Henry Hu of Cafe X, and Deepak Sekar of Chowbotics to have a candid discussion about the future of robotics in the food industry—the inspiration for their companies, successes, regulation challenges, and the great debate around automation of labor. And then Amanda Richardson of HotelTonight shares her experiences of being a small company in a crowded industry, getting attacked by one of their largest competitors, and how her team went from 2-3 bookings a day to now doing tens of thousands of room nights a day, with 20m downloads, in 37 different countries. She challenges us to focus on the “superpower” of being a small company, to know your users, and to think about your differentiation in the industry.
Just because you write the check doesn’t mean that you’re the important person in the equation. In fact, the check is not important in the equation either. It’s the people who get up everyday and do the hard work, and that kind of humility, work ethic, and dedication is what set Hunter Walk of Homebrew, Megan Quinn of Spark Capital, and Jalak Jobanputra of FuturePerfect VC apart. Filmed at LAUNCH Festival 2017, Jason sits down with this all-star panel of builders-turned-investors to discuss lessons learned, equity crowdfunding, VR predictions, and much more. And then Rishi Garg of Mayfield helps us understand the M&A process, how to be proactive, and how to get the right help. Previously, Rishi ran corporate development and strategy teams at 3 public companies, most recently at Twitter, where he was VP of Corporate Development, as well as at Square and MTV Networks. Along the way, he also started and sold a venture-backed company and worked for a couple other venture firms, so M&A is a topic that he cares deeply about, and has seen from many angles.
500 Startups is a global venture capital seed fund with a network of startup programs headquartered in Silicon Valley, with investments in more than 1,800 technology startups all over the world since its inception in 2010. Jason sits down with Founding Partner Dave McClure to talk about early mistakes, lessons and insights learned, his investment approach, and advice to founders in 2017. Then, Sarah Tavel of Greylock Partners reflects on her early days at Pinterest as she watched the company grow from 30,000 registered users to 100m monthly active users, and distills 10 lessons from her experience there.
There are two things that startups need: money and growth. Money is the fuel, and growth happens typically through investments, and through making better products and technique. Filmed at LAUNCH Festival 2017, Jason interviews an all-star panel of investor thought leaders. Gil Penchina is a super angel of super angels that has dominated the syndicate space. Cyan Banister started as an angel investor and has moved upstream to be a venture capitalist at Founders Fund. SeedInvest CEO and co-founder Ryan Feit is making a huge bet on the equity crowdfunding revolution. And then we welcome Jed Katz of Javelin Venture Partners, who follows up his classic Series A checklist with his thorough Series B playbook.
Filmed at LAUNCH Festival 2017, Jason sits down with Stripe CEO Patrick Collison to explore his journey to solving one of the toughest barriers to a global e-commerce economy: payments. About a decade ago, companies were mostly working with legacy players like banks, gateways and processors, and they were essentially looking to buy a technology service from them. These financial institutions were huge, but focused on particular markets, which provided an opportunity for Stripe. Today, Stripe works with companies in 124 countries and handles billions of dollars of aggregate revenue every year. Join us as Patrick shares an inspiring story of his early days at Y Combinator, mistakes and triumphs, opening the Atlas program to US-based startups, and his views on public/private markets.
E721: News Roundtable! Iain Thomson Austin Smith: ISP privacy, FB rips off Snap, Neuralink & SpaceX by This Week in Startups
Filmed at Cisco Spark Haus, SXSW 2017, Jason sits down with Capital Factory Mentor founder of Josh Baer, who helps people quit their jobs and become entrepreneurs. Josh is a tireless supporter of startups, but more specifically, has made Austin a center of gravity for entrepreneurs. Capital Factory Mentor boasts a mentor network of 100+ experts from diverse backgrounds and uses it to grow startups. Josh discusses his investment successes, failures & greatest misses, the thriving entrepreneurial scene in Austin and growing venture community, and why bridge loans are usually a bad deal for both entrepreneurs and VCs. He then takes questions from the audience about crowd-funding, why it’s only easier to be a founder in today’s times, and the importance of setting the stage for international entrepreneurs.
This week’s LAUNCH Incubator features Pear.vc partner Mar Hershenson as she gives an instructive talk about turning seed companies into series A companies. There is a lot of confusion among seed founders as to the right approach. Depending on what vertical you’re in, whether it’s e-commerce, consumer, SaaS, or marketplace, there is different knowledge that people have as to what you need to hit to be a series A company. She explains the importance of planning, executing and iterating an Ops plan, which metrics are predictors of success, and why it’s effective to communicate with data. Mar wraps up her talk by answering questions from the class about lessons learned from mistakes she has made as an angel investor, social distribution, and women in entrepreneurship.
Zach Nelson is one of Silicon Valley's most experienced business leaders. After roles at Oracle, Sun, and McAfee, he became the CEO of cloud provider NetSuite in 2002. NetSuite started with less than $1m in revenue and Zach ran it up to a billion dollar run rate, with a recent acquisition by Oracle for $9.3b. Join us for an insightful interview with Zach as he shares unique CEO insights around the founding story of NetSuite, how he transformed the enterprise resource planning (ERP) space, keeping a team motivated, what makes a great product launch, and more.
News Roundtable! Rolfe Winkler of the Wall Street Journal and Tess Townsend of Recode are in the studio to talk with Jason about the latest tech news. On tap: Google Allo and the future of personal assistants, a bot that turns your texts into faxes to elected officials, the pros and the cons of Trump's Twitter use and the future of Twitter, Parker Conrad’s new startup Rippling, and more.
Intercom co-founder Des Traynor returns to the LAUNCH Incubator with another powerhouse talk. There are 3 ingredients to a company: people, product and profit. Today, Des focuses on people and product by extracting key principles from his experience at Intercom. He explains the importance of alignment and how it touches every aspect of running a company – from how a company behaves, to the hiring process, to how you speak to customers. Then, he shares 6 principles on building a product-first company. Des wraps up his talk by answering questions from the class about lessons learned from Intercom’s early days, net negative churn, and ways to avoid the massive churn problem.
News Roundtable! Liz Gannes of 60dB and Ben Parr of Octane AI are in the studio to talk with Jason about the latest tech news. On tap: Snap's IPO timing, Uber moving forward, the Trump factor, Bitcoin, drone-bearing cars & 3D-printed houses & more.
Aside from having an idea and a product, there are two things that every startup needs: money and growth. We are starting to open up the aperture of who can invest in a company. There is a global competition for ideas that requires entrepreneurs, and those entrepreneurs require capital to grow their companies. In today’s episode, Jason talks to SeedInvest CEO and co-founder Ryan Feit about his equity crowdfunding platform and the revolution that’s happening in that landscape. Also joining us today is Wolfprint 3D CEO Timmu Tõke, a 3D scanning startup that launched a business initiative on SeedInvest. Insights are shared from Timmu’s entrepreneurial perspective on why he chose equity crowdfunding for his business, and from Ryan’s investment perspective on the process of accepting a company like Wolfprint 3D. Jason explores questions about accredited vs. non-accredited investors, doubling down on startups, risks and market potential, and much more.
In this Part 2 episode, Jason continues to answer questions from founders and superfans -- from convincing an angel investor that being a solo founder is good to starting a social network, from advice around risk-taking to the future of transportation and housing. Plus, find out what he is passionate about outside of angel investing and how he defines success.
As an angel investor, as a founder, and as host of 700+ episodes of TWiST, Jason constantly receives questions from founders and superfans. Today, he answers 15 -- from how to passively support viable startups if you have a day job to best fundraising advice, from how much confidentiality founders should expect, to tips for female entrepreneurs to successfully navigate the tricky waters of owning and running a company in a male-dominated landscape. Plus, find out some of Jason’s investment strategies to choosing winners to invest in. This is only the first of two parts, so stay tuned for much more.
Linden Tibbets is the co-founder & CEO of IFTTT, one of the leading IoT solution platforms that automates simple tasks and controls a variety of devices. Linden comes from the world of programming, and worked as an engineer connecting API’s together at the world renowned design firm, IDEO. He had the original insight of getting services like Twitter, DropBox, and Instagram working together, and the vision of a platform that is the standard for information access. The simplest way to describe IFTTT is as a personal automation platform. Users create simple "Applets" that can execute simple "If This Then That" statements. Currently, IFTTT has about 10 million users, 50m+ applets, and 400 partners. From FitBit to Philips Hue, from finding your phone with Alexa to turning on your TV, IFTTT is paving the way to an automated lifestyle that can save you time and make the technology you use every day a seamless part of your life.
One of the biggest problems that we face in the world today, specifically here in the U.S. and in Europe, is the electricity grid. The energy market is going through a rapid transition–increased penetration of renewable energy. The energy market is evolving into a more sustainable market, but with that comes challenges for the electricity grid. Essentially, because renewable energy is intermittent in nature, there are sometimes misforecasts that create imbalances on the grid. REstore wants to help solve that problem through technology that can analyze, predict and adjust power-using devices to balance out those minute-by-minute or hour-by-hour fluctuations.
Then, Greylock Partner Josh Elman shares his insights around virality. Every entrepreneur wants their startup’s product to go viral, but many fail to understand how virality actually works. All virality has one common element: inception and motivation. Join us as Josh explores some of the ways that products can go viral.
Filmed at the Upfront Summit 2017, Jason sits down with legendary entrepreneur-turned-investor, Vinod Khosla. In 1980, Vinod co-founded Daisy Systems, the first significant computer-aided design system for electrical engineers. In 1982, he made his early fortune as one of the co-founders of Sun Microsystems, and in 1987, he switched gears to join the venture capital firm Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers, where he gained huge recognition and appreciation as a venture capitalist. He is also widely known for launching Juniper Networks, a company which is believed to be the next Cisco. Currently, he is the founder of Khosla Ventures, a firm focused on assisting entrepreneurs to build impactful new energy and technology companies. Join us as Vinod Khosla shares his inspiring story of mistakes, lessons learned, and advice for entrepreneurs building technology-based businesses.
Jason “jams out” a number of marketing and growth tips with founders in this special “Jam Session” episode of This Week in Startups. Casey Winters is a growth advisor and was previously Growth Product Lead at Pinterest and GrubHub. He explains how to use landing pages to capture all of the free search traffic that you may be missing out on. Sue Kwon, Head of Communications at Honor, draws parallels from her experience of working in a tv newsroom to what founders go through having to quickly tell their story with little money and time. Then, David McIntosh, CEO and co-founder at Tenor, talks about growth, specifically about making decisions that compound exponentially instead of slow linear growth.
In this Part 2 episode, Jason and Sam continue their exploration of the Trump Phenomenon, social media and fake news, and the benefits and threats of A.I. The thematic question to ask ourselves is: what sort of society do we want to live in? As technology becomes more powerful, and as more jobs become obviated by intelligent machines, Sam highlights that we need to figure out how to redistribute wealth to the better part of humanity. He reminds us though, that it’s not all depressing, and that with the right approach, we are living in the first moment of human history where we can plausibly imagine virtually everything changing.
Today’s guest is Sam Harris, philosopher, neuroscientist and best-selling author of books including “Waking Up,” “The End of Faith,” “Letter to a Christian Nation,” and “The Moral Landscape.” Jason and Sam explore a wide range of topics, including the ethics of robots, the value of meditation, Trump’s lies, and his most recent obsession AI, which stemmed from an initial conversation with Elon Musk. Sam argues that the threat of uncontrolled AI is one of the most pressing issues of our time and poses the question: Can we build AI without losing control over it? The two then discuss why meditation is so important for entrepreneurs and business people. Sam has built his brand and fan base around radical honesty and authenticity, so the conversation naturally segues to Trump and his lies. This is only the first of two parts, so stay tuned for much more.
Jordan Ritter is an accomplished serial entrepreneur perhaps best known for co-founding Napster, the controversial file-sharing company that fundamentally changed the music industry. He shares about the inspiration behind the music-streaming site, the key role he played in helping it scale, the pivotal moment that lingers in his memory during the craze, and the most important lesson he learned there. Currently, he is the CEO of Atlas Informatics, a startup in Seattle with an audacious goal to redefine search as we know it. Atlas Recall, the company's first product, gives you a searchable photographic memory that helps you find everything you have seen across all of your devices, apps and cloud services, and the context surrounding them: when you looked at them, what order you did so in, what other windows and apps you had open at the same time, where you were when you accessed it, and sharing history. Join us as Jason and Jordan discuss this meaningful paradigm shift towards real contextual awareness and machine learning.
News Roundtable! Katie Benner of The New York Times and Amir Efrati of The Information are in the studio to talk with Jason about the latest tech news. On tap: SnapChat cleaning up Discover and readying for IPO, Tesla cleared in accident investigation and a new era of safety in cars, the future of net neutrality under President Trump, and more.
In this Part 2 episode, Jason and Dave Mathews continue looking at the latest technology showcased at CES 2017, featuring interviews with:
- Betsy McHugh, Founder and CEO of Hurdl
- Alexander Kaay, CEO of s7.io
- Rob Griffin, Co-Founder of GeniCan
- Shai Goitein, CEO of PowerUp Toys
- SmartGurlz
- Kenny Dodge, Community Manager of xCraft Enterprises
- Ethan Woods, Founder of Grillbot LLC
- Einaras von Gravrock, CEO of CUJO
- Dulcie Madden, Co-Founder & CEO of Mimo
- Nick Smoot, Entrepreneur of Innovation Collective
Filmed at CES 2017, the theme of today’s show is the future of transportation. Jason and tech inventor Dave Mathews sit down at the Ring booth to talk about new automotive trends & innovations from Mercedes and Audi, the big story of Amazon Alexa, and predictions in tech for 2017. Next, ChargePoint President & CEO Pasquale Romano joins the show to talk about his mission to get everyone behind the wheel of an electric vehicle, and provide them a place to charge wherever they go. Then, CEO Gregory Ducongé reveals how VULOG Carsharing is leading a new generation of carsharing technologies. This is only the first of two parts, so stay tuned for much more.
Filmed at CES 2017, Jason sits down with James Siminoff, a dogged entrepreneur driven by the idea of winning no matter how tough the challenge. James was one of three people inside a garage workshop, tinkering away on projects. Answering the doorbell from the garage was a pain, and after realizing that the market did not offer a solution to this problem, James took on building a front door monitoring system himself. Today, this game-changing doorbell is called Ring, and the company’s mission is to reduce crime in neighborhoods. Join us as Jason and Jamie explore the breakthrough features of the product, lessons learned in the rollercoaster life of a tech entrepreneur, and the future of home automation in the playing field.
Gina Bianchini is an expert in community building. Many know her as the co-founder and former CEO of Ning, an online platform for people and organizations to create custom social networks. Her latest venture is with a social software startup called Mighty Networks, which reinvents groups online by helping companies and organizations power discussions among professionals. Gina fundamentally believes in the power of new connections and that the answer to today’s flood of social networks is a morphing and progression of these networks. Mighty Networks addresses the need to connect relevant members, break the ice, and drive people to meet up and to learn from each other.
Filmed at 2016 LAUNCH SCALE, episode 698 of This Week in Startups features two successful founders who share insights into how they have managed to scale their companies. First, Jason Lemkin, Founder of SaaStr, shares tips and common mistakes to getting from $1m to $10m in ARR. Then, Alex Tew, shares some of his learnings from The Million Dollar Homepage and Calm.com, and dives into the key ingredients to creatively acquiring 100,000 users before you launch.
Home security systems haven't meaningfully evolved in decades. Current monitoring systems can have false alarm rates ranging between 95%-99%, giving homeowners no more of a sense of security than having no system at all. Sunflower Labs CEO & co-founder Alex Pachikov is modernizing the home security market with the introduction of the Sunflower Home Awareness System, which combines outdoor sensors with an aerial camera for a complete view of what's going on around your home. Backed by $2.1M in funding from General Catalyst and others, Sunflower Labs is disrupting the home security market at this exciting intersection of new technology and the smart home.
Then, Homebrew General Partner Satya Patel shares a framework for understanding how to get from seed stage to series A. Why is this relevant today? About 20% of companies that have raised seeds in the past few years are now going to be able to raise series A’s, but that number is decreasing, so the battle for the A dollar is becoming more brutal. In Homebrew’s first round of raising funds, they had a 92% success rate of helping companies raise A rounds vs. seed rounds that they lead. Join us and learn tips on how to get money in your bank.
Loic Le Meur is a serial entrepreneur based in San Francisco. He co-founded one of the largest European tech events, LeWeb. Loic is an active business angel and was an early investor in LinkedIn, Evernote and Lending Club, among many others. In this episode, he shares insights around his new startup, Leade.rs, a speakers-events marketplace that enables you to discover the top people doing amazing things in their field right now—the Nobel Prize, the Forbes top 30 under 30,, the Young Global Leaders, LinkedIn Influencers, and TED speakers. Currently, the process to book keynote speakers for events is broken. Most events aim to maximize revenue, but compromise engaging topics. Leade.rs wants to answer questions such as, “Who makes VR?” “Who are best people in VR in Asia?” “In Latin America?”, and connect those speakers with event planners. Join us as Loic shares his vision to create transparent optionality in discovering speakers and the sustainable revenue experiment paired with it.
Filmed at 2016 LAUNCH SCALE, Tom Patterson sits down with Jason and shares his wisdom around his massively successful high-end men's underwear brand, and how he went from being a medical device salesman to leading Tommy John to exceed $100M in sales by 2018. Then, Jason interviews a panel of investor thought leaders. Paul Judge (Luma), Christine Tsai (500 Startups), Ryan Feit (SeedInvest) convene to discuss the future of fundraising, what this means in relation to the election, and the differences between accredited and non-accredited investors.
Filmed at 2016 LAUNCH SCALE, David Sacks of Zenefits and Cyan Banister of Founders Fund sit down with Jason to hash out the trials and successes in scaling culture. David Sacks talks openly about the transformation of culture at Zenefits--how he fixed the company's problems and helped to rapidly scale the business. Then, Cyan Banister shares tips on how to create and preserve company culture as you scale. She then takes questions from the audience about how to handle subcultures and 1099 employees, stay present from a distance, and maintain culture when a company is growing rapidly.
With over 85 investments and 26 high-profile exits in over 30 years under his belt, technology- and investment guru Yossi Vardi sits down with Jason and imparts his advice for hopeful startups. Yossi then takes questions from the audience about raising money or staying bootstrapped, defining the grey line between chasing a bad idea and staying persistent through tough times, and how get over the hump of trying to convince investors of a good idea. Join us in a candid conversation with Yossi as he reveals the secrets of his success.
Filmed at 2016 LAUNCH SCALE, Glenn Kelman of Redfin and Pejman Nozad of Pear.vc sit down with Jason and share how their stories of staying obsessively focused and persistent led them to building great companies. Glenn Kelman demonstrates how Redfin is reinventing real estate in the consumer’s favor, with the goal of restoring honor to the otherwise underappreciated profession. Then, Pejman Nozad takes us on his 20-year journey that started when he got a job at a car wash in San Jose while living in an attic above a yogurt shop, to then selling rugs, closing sales — $8 million worth of rugs in his best year — and starting a tech venture fund.
E689: News Roundtable! Molly Wood Marketplace & Eric Newcomer Bloomberg on Trump's triumph & more by This Week in Startups
New York is an important ecosystem that combines the art scene, media companies, Wall Street, the advertising industry, and news organizations. What it didn’t have in the early days was any kind of infrastructure--angel investors, incubators--which meant that if you were an entrepreneur, you were on your own. Now, there is a lot more infrastructure, including startup incubators. Joining Jason today are the two leaders of R/GA Ventures Incubator, Richard Ting and Nick Coronges. R/GA supports companies that are looking to build their brand, while partnering them with their client base of major players, including Nike, Verizon Wireless, Johnson & Johnson, Samsung and Google. Join us as Nick and Richard reveal what startups need the most help with, which young companies have the most demonstrable success, and how R/GA is playing an integral role in supporting the community and helping entrepreneurs.
E-commerce is growing, and direct-to-consumer e-commerce is becoming a trend. Andy Katz-Mayfield is the co-founder and co-CEO of the men's razor subscription company Harry's, along with Jeff Raider, one of the co-founders of Warby-Parker. The shaving startup rethinks how grooming products could be sold by focusing on higher-quality razors at lower prices than its much larger competitors. The science of customer acquisition has changed with the introduction of Facebook, custom audiences and re-targeting. Andy explains that being vertically integrated has allowed them to move quickly and commit to their millions of customers. Teaming up with Target, taking on established giant Gillette, thoughts on Dollar Shave Club’s acquisition by Unilever — all this and much more.
Media theorist and author Douglas Rushkoff joins Jason to discuss the current economic environment. The two talk about Douglas’ latest thought-provoking book, “Throwing Rocks at the Google Bus: How Growth Became the Enemy of Prosperity," the digital economy, the growth trap, and solutions to create sustainable marketplaces for the future. Douglas presents the problem that digital companies extract value without distributing wealth. They're taking money and value away from us and storing it in share price. He argues that you should make everyone in your ecosystem wealthy--your customers/vendors/suppliers--then you can circulate money, rather than just extract it. Join us and learn how and why we went wrong, and how we can reprogram the digital economy and our businesses to promote sustainable prosperity for everyone.
E685: CEO John Shahidi on evolving Shots Studios from selfie app to mega-talent content creator by This Week in Startups
Jason “jams out” a number of marketing and growth tips with founders in this special “Jam Session” episode of This Week in Startups. Scott Abel of The Content Wrangler shares 10 lessons to creating your own influencer campaign, while Arjun Moorthy of CivikOwl talks about how to widen your sales by paying resellers to become a channel for your product. Then, John Doherty of Credo explains why startup founders should do less content, but do it much better.
E683: Founder Nancy Lublin, Crisis Text Line: Partnering empathy w/ machine learning to save lives by This Week in Startups
David Helgason is an entrepreneur and co-founder of Unity, a platform creating 2D and 3D games. In 2003, he had the crazy idea of revolutionizing the gaming industry and his pioneering days started in a garage during a time when VR and AR were still only speculative. In the last 10 years on this adventure, the future caught up with David, and things like AR, Pokemon Go, and other video games needed to create a 3D world. Unity is like a stage where you put digital assets all together, make it interactive, compile it with one button, and then deploy it to all platforms. Unity has received funding from the likes of Sequoia Capital, WestSummit Capital, and iGlobe Partners. David shares his challenges as well as his predictions for VR/AR and the future of mobile games.
Shivani Siroya is the CEO and founder of Tala, a company is tackling a massive problem: there are 3 billion people around the world that are currently underserved from financial services—they don’t have bank accounts, access to formal credit options, traditional loan products, small business loans, or insurance products. Tala makes micro-loans in Kenya, Tanzania and the Philippines by using a person’s smartphone, transactions, and app usage to figure out if they are creditworthy. To evaluate creditworthiness, Tala built an Android app that scores would-be borrowers in 20 seconds by using data on their phone. In addition, they make a credit decision to lend money in that 20 second timeframe and acts as the lender. Tala dynamically prices between 5%-11% for the term, which is dramatically lower than the average APR in these markets, which is 350%. In this episode, Siroya describes how she pioneered this new form of micro-lending.
There will be 11 billion people on the planet by the end of this century, and the challenge will be to sustainably and efficiently feed them. Food is becoming a big business, and big agriculture is taking over the Monsanto’s of the world with strong interests in profits. Amol Deshpande, CEO and co-founder of the Farmers Business Network, has raised $50M for the network and created a tool that uses data to help farmers thrive and maintain the family businesses they’ve had for generations. FBN takes an unconventional and disruptive approach by asking: “What good is the data if you can’t take action on it and do better for yourself?” Amol demos his product and bridges the divide in understanding in how our food supply actually works. Jason and Amol explore the world of GMOs and organics, and the future of feeding humanity.
E679: Internet harassment & free speech rights roundtable w/Quinn Norton & Kevin Marks by This Week in Startups
E678: Pulitzer Prize-winner Edward Humes: "Door to Door" transpo, on demand, future fuel & autonomy by This Week in Startups
E677: Chris Sacca Matt Mazzeo, PT2: Shark Tank, diversity, Lowercase Alpha, eSports, voting by This Week in Startups
Chris Sacca & Matt Mazzeo of Lowercase Capital join Jason in L.A. for a rollicking two-parter. In between the ribbing, Part 1 finds the three catching up on the universal principles of building companies, what Chris & Matt can bring to the table, why Twitter isn’t growing & its best buyer prospects, why Snapchat is genius but hard (for Chris & Jason but not Matt, the native swiper), the lost art of storytelling in product development, investing with integrity, Chris’s tips for avoiding meetings — and much more. (Stay tuned for Part 2 next week!)
00:54 Welcome to Chris Sacca & Matt Mazzeo of Lowercase Capital 01:57 Jason asks: Is being an investor easy or hard? It's both. Chris and Matt break it down. (Including a spirited debate on the value of meetings.) They have different but complementary approaches to making and cultivating relationships with entrepreneurs. 07:16 Chris says, we don't forward to investor colleagues anything we've passed on. Leads to reasons for passing on products. 08:54 Example of passing on Snapchat. (At the time it was a different product.) One moment drove home to Chris that the meeting is not his strong suite - he's not the initial user of a product but Matt is. 10:20 Matt talks about recent investments in e-sports: Smash.gg & Mobcrush. 11:44 Chris talks about the specific values Lowercase Capital brings to the table for entrepreneurs. Chris and Matt are a complementary team. 14:07 Partner break - thank you Tommy John. 16:21 Welcome back. Jason brings up Chris's successful investments. Twitter, Uber, Instagram, Twilio & more. 17:49 Twitter was a life-changing event. Original valuation $20m, which at the time was absurd. Goes into history: they thought it was a fun product, and everyone believed in Evan Williams. Compares valuations of Uber & Twilio, much lower. We've made bank on smaller companies. 19:49 Jason: what's your ownership request these days? Chris says being obsessed with it is a blocker to success. Matt: we write small checks and then lean in when they start hitting their marks. 21:21 We have rules that aren't about check-size. #1: we need to be proud of the investment and its impact, and that we can personally move the needle. 22:56 Jason asks: where can you make biggest impact? Matt: helping companies tell stories. Chris wholeheartedly agrees and launches into history of web 1.0 when slick storytellers ruled but were replaced in 2.0 with the coders. Progress, but storytelling got lost. 27:55 Spirited debate of how hard Snapchat is -- and why it's harder for Chris and Jason but not for Matt, who is a native swiper. Generational divide. 30:18 Twitter. Chris deconstructs exactly what is wrong with Twitter, why they have such a growth problem. The product is too hard to use. 36:15 Partner break - thank you, Dollar Shave Club. 38:50 Discussion on Jack, Adam, Evan; roles and frustrations around Twitter senior leadership. 43:22 Who is the natural buyer of Twitter? Chris lists them one by one. (Google? Facebook? Microsoft?) 47:45 Evan Williams as the philosopher king of the internet. Chris calls him long-form. 50:55 In contrast Trump is a good tweeter but has no substance. The public confuses money with wisdom. But Trump is not the businessman he claims. 52:36 Jason asks Chris, would you rather have: Google or Facebook buy Twitter at double the current price OR they buy Medium, and Evan comes into Twitter and grows it from here? 56:51 Thank you, IBM Smartcamp END OF PART 1
Entrepreneurs are driving all of the innovation today, and this episode's guest is no exception. Adam Ludwin, CEO & Co-founder of Chain.com created a tool that's helping top financial firms (NASDAQ, CapitalOne, Citi, Fidelity, Visa & more) deploy the blockchain. Adam demos his technology, and offers a fascinating and super clear explanation of how/why bitcoin & the blockchain were developed, how it works, common misperceptions, how the DAO hack happened & long-term effects, and how he got that insanely amazing domain name. Jason and Adam venture deep into other tech territory, including whither Apple, who will buy Twitter, Snapchat v. Instagram, religion, oppressed societies, Hamilton (The Musical), and the hardest part of a startup (hint: not stopping).
E674: Mark Suster, Upfront Ventures: How to pitch to VCs, best founders, anti demo day, pro IPO by This Week in Startups
News Roundtable! Cade Metz of Wired and Ellen Huet of Bloomberg are in the studio to talk with Jason about the latest tech news. On tap: the Apple event and what was relevant (anything?), the Andreessen Horowitz and The Wall Street Journal kerfuffle over a16z's returns, the never-ending train wreck that is Theranos, startups such as Hotel Tonight cutting back and tightening belts, drone-bearing burritos, Burning Man, Airbnb's new anti-discrimination policy, and more.
Noah Kagan, founder of SumoMe & AppSumo, started his career as employee #30 at Facebook, before getting fired and losing $185m in company shares. Lessons learned showed Noah what he truly he excels at -- building small businesses and helping them grow. As Director of Marketing at Mint.com he built that startup’s first 100k customers, and ultimately created the Sumo Group (SumoMe, AppSumo, KingSumo), which now has ~1m subscribers and generates 8 figures in revenue -- completely bootstrapped, with no venture capital. Noah talks about all this and more -- including his best email marketing tips and other tricks of the trade to build your site’s traffic, lists, and audience.
E671: All #AskJason: Wooing investors after failure, advice for introverts, tackling growth & more by This Week in Startups
E670: Munchery CEO & Co-founder Tri Tran on escaping Vietnam & pioneering a food movement in America by This Week in Startups
E669: Moon Express' Bob Richards: Being 1st private co. to get permission to go beyond earth's orbit by This Week in Startups
E668: News Roundtable! Jeff Bercovici Inc & Olivia Zaleski Bloomberg: Hampton Creek, Thiel vs Gawker by This Week in Startups
Something has changed in the way we build companies in the past decade, and that major change was data-driven product design. Storage and bandwidth became essentially free and unlimited, changing the way companies stored data. “Should we store this data?” was the big issue back in the day. What really matters now is how you study that data and what strategies you deploy based on that data. Venture capitalist, blogger and author Tomasz Tunguz joins Jason to discuss the data wave and how his experiences inspired his brand new book, “Winning with Data: Transform Your Culture, Empower Your People, and Shape the Future.” We learn about Tomasz’s path from his early days with the Google AdSense team, his three investment outlook predictions, and his advice for startups to leverage & execute data.
Pixar-Disney Co-founder & President, Ed Catmull, and author of “Creativity, Inc.: Overcoming the Unseen Forces That Stand in the Way of True Inspiration,” is one of the greatest startup founders in the history of Silicon Valley. In this Part 2 episode, his conversation with Jason on This Week in Startups continues as he talks about his existential crisis after Toy Story’s explosive success, the unique struggles for each Pixar film, and building a creative culture at Pixar and Disney. His story is one of dogged resilience, filled with risks, mistakes and lessons learned, and it will inspire entrepreneurs and non-entrepreneurs alike.
One of the greatest startup founders in the history of Silicon Valley, Ed Catmull, joins Jason on This Week in Startups. Pixar has made some of the greatest stories of our time, but Ed’s personal story, is perhaps the greatest story that has come out of Pixar. It took Ed a few years to write his book, “Creativity, Inc.: Overcoming the Unseen Forces That Stand in the Way of True Inspiration,” where he shares his personal journey of lengthy pursuits, starting from the early days of computer art, running a great sustainable company, and the management philosophies that he has learned over time. This is the first of two parts, so stay tuned for much more.
To download Creativity, Inc.: Overcoming the Unseen Forces That Stand in the Way of True Inspiration: audible.com/twist
Ari Levy of CNBC and Rolfe Winker of The Wall Street Journal joined @Jason for a must-see News Roundtable on This Week in Startups. An amazing discussion that kicked off with big deal of the week, Walmart snapping up Jet.com for $3b, that crackled on to Google, the government, anti-trust, the entire U.S. debt problem, the Chinese Market, the very future of energy (featuring, naturally, Elon), and the latest in startup CEOs behaving badly. And more.
There are few people in the industry who really do the work, and take the work seriously. Many investors don’t take the work as seriously as the founders take their work. Being an investor is a great privilege, especially if you started off as a founder first. There are very few examples of investors working harder or as hard as the founders that they invest in, but SaaStr founder, Jason Lemkin, is one of those rare exceptions of the people who take the investing seriously. In this episode, Jason gives an update to the presentation he gave at the Angel Summit.
Jason “jams out” a number of growth tips and e-commerce tips with founders in this special “Jam Session” episode of This Week in Startups. Melody McCloskey of StyleSeat talks about leveraging data to drive growth and engagement, while Edgar Blazona of BenchMade Modern shares tips on optimizing paid acquisition via segmentation and landing pages. Then, David Temple of Hello Scout explains how to use offline acquisition to create trust. At the end, Jason asks one of the most candid questions a founder can ask, “Tell me about a near death experience, the worst moment in running your business.”
The world of startups is a dog-eat-dog world, and Antonio Garcia Martinez shares all in his brutally candid book “Chaos Monkeys: Obscene Fortune and Random Failure in Silicon Valley.” Antonio shares his journey starting as a Wall Street Goldman Sachs Strat and witnessing the market crash, pursuing and enduring the trials and tribulations of startup life (complete with hefty legal and fundraising battles), negotiating a tricky twin Twitter acquisition deal that alienated his co-founders, landing as an esteemed Product Manager at Facebook during its heady crazy pre-IPO days, seeing his hard work in Ads come to a crushing, brutal end … only to be hired at Twitter. Trade secrets of tech giants, back-door deals, SV culture, personal hijinx — all this and, believe it or not, much more.
To download “Chaos Monkeys”: audible.com/twist
Jason connects with equity crowdfunding pioneer Ryan Feit to discuss the groundbreaking Title III law, giving way to a brand new form of startup fundraising. The fight to end “80-year-old laws” regulating investment freedom has come to an end under the new section of the JOBS Act. As the CEO and Co-Founder of SeedInvest, as well as being an integral player in the movement to pass legislation to allow civilians the right to invest in startups, Ryan’s expertise in this new era of fundraising is unparalleled.
Esteemed reporter Iain Thomson of The Register and seasoned entrepreneur Robert Scoble of Upload VR join Jason for a gripping News Roundtable on this episode of This Week in Startups. Robert starts off the discussion with some juicy background on some of the cutting edge tech in virtual reality, while Iain explains why nobody should be worried about Tesla’s autopilot feature following the fatal accident. The group then rips apart some of the more fantastical ventures, such as a new military beta-tested jetpack, and Larry Page’s investments in flying cars. Finally, with the world on the edge after Brexit, this news roundtable takes a natural turn into both global and domestic political issues, including terrorism, gun control, and national security.
“The internet is the great masterpiece of human civilization.” The world wide web has shaped the modern world in ways that the greatest creative minds of the past could never have imagined. Author, journalist, columnist and critic Virginia Heffernan joins Jason to discuss the impact of the internet and how that impact inspired her journey through the creation of her brand new book, “Magic and Loss: The Internet as Art.” With an unprecedented writing background ranging from Staff Writer at The New York Times to Consultant at Yahoo News, Virginia has been long overdue for publishing her first book.
Immersive theater has been around for some time now, but the reason “The Speakeasy” is turning heads is because of it’s unique new crowdfunding approach to finance the project. Jason sits down with David Gluck, the producer and general manager of the interactive 1920’s-themed theater experience “The Speakeasy,” to find out the process, pros and cons, and progress involved in the quest to opening day.
Episode 653 of This Week in Startups is a special “Ask Jason” session filmed live at the Microsoft Reactor in front of an audience of up-and-coming entrepreneurs as a part of the Microsoft Global Startup Roadshow. From London, to Tel Aviv, to Beijing, founders from all over the world converge at Microsoft for this intimate Q&A session with Jason. One by one, Jason candidly answers questions on fundraising, mentorship & achieving product market fit as well as giving feedback on product pitches.
Episode 652 of This Week in Startups is a News Roundtable! Occupying the table with Jason are two distinguished tech journalists, Katie Benner of NYT Technology & Eric Newcomer of Bloomberg. There’s almost not enough time to cover all the biggest news in tech over the last few days. Between Gawker declaring bankruptcy, Microsoft’s LinkedIn acquisition and Walgreens ending its partnership with Theranos there is certainly no shortage of content today!
Jason “jams out” a number of tips and tricks with founders in this special “Jam Session” episode of This Week in Startups. Jill Bourque of RushTix talks Net Promoter Score, while David Hassell of 15Five shares the importance of customer success. Then, Craig Zingerline of Votion explains customer-driven development, and Mei Siauw of LeadIQ gives examples on how to increase customer satisfaction.
Episode 649 of This Week in Startups is a News Roundtable featuring Jessica Lessin, founder and editor-in-chief of The Information, and Nellie Bowles, staff writer for The Guardian. Jason riffs with the distinguished journalists on the polarizing and ongoing dispute between Peter Thiel and Gawker. Then, the discussion turns to include everything from the Trump campaign, to journalistic politics, and moral responsibility in the tech industry.
In episode 648 of This Week in Startups, Jason opens up his office hours to an audience of investors and entrepreneurs at the Microsoft Reactor in San Francisco to answer questions and analyze pitches. One by one, founders take the stage to pitch their products or simply to pick Jason’s brain. J.P. Martin of GrowX, Katherine Webster of Vets in Tech, and Keenan Williams of REZI, are just a few of the hard working entrepreneurs who stand up to hear Jason’s candid feedback on their ideas.
In episode 647 of This Week in Startups, Jason interviews the top three finalists of the 2015 IBM SmartCamp. First, he sits down with Jessika Lora, CEO & founder of the SmartCamp overall winner, CarForce. Then Mike Holt of gridComm, one of the finalists, explains how his company will save huge energy costs by implementing a network of smart street lamps. Finally, founder Yoly Avalos demonstrates why Bquate is disrupting the music industry by placing distribution in the hands of the artists. *Interested in applying for SmartCamp in 2016? Leave your e-mail at smartcamp2015.com and we'll notify you when applications come out.*
Filmed live at the Microsoft Reactor in San Francisco, Jason takes the stage with seasoned entrepreneur and author of “The Lean Startup,” Eric Ries. Jason and Eric dive right into the meaty processes lined out in the bestselling book. They analyze real examples of the business experiments that Jason has personally tried out using tips and techniques pulled directly from Eric’s scientific method for achieving startup success. Get an inside look at where “The Lean Startup” revolution began.
There was literally no program available to teach computational learning to kids past the age of ten…that is, until Ready was brought to market in February 2016. Jason sits down with Alpha Venture advisor and Ready Founding Maker David Bennahum in Episode 645 of This Week in Startups. David discusses the challenges of teaching coding to kids and shows off his software creator Ready, which aims to revolutionize the face of computational learning and education.
True artificial intelligence is arguably the ultimate technology. To create machines that not only learn, but teach themselves, is sure to unlock new realms of technological possibilities that we haven’t even considered. This is exactly what Vicarious aims to accomplish, and exactly why distinguished investors such as Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerburg, and Peter Thiel are pouring funding into this revolutionary company. In episode 643 of This Week in Startups, Scott Phoenix, co-founder of Vicarious, sits down with Jason for an in-depth interview on the inner workings within his groundbreaking AI company.
Steve Case’s new book The Third Wave is the centerpiece for this special episode of This Week in Startups, and who better to discuss the content of the book than the author, Steve Case himself! Jason sits down with the legendary internet pioneer and founder of AOL to discuss the early days of the company, the intermediate years of the internet, and the future of innovation. The book focuses around the first two ‘Waves’ of the internet, and then delves into what Steve forecasts as the coming “Third Wave.” Steve’s vision for technology in the coming years is captivating, and this in depth interview helps explain the reasons he is listed among the great tech innovators of our time.
What do syndicates, Kickstarter campaigns, and AngelList all have in common? An all-star panel of angel Investors convenes to connect all of those dots and more in episode 639 of This Week in Startups. Gil Penchina of Flight.vc, Paige Craig of Arena Ventures, and Jenny Fielding of Techstars converge on the LAUNCH Stage at the 2016 LAUNCH Festival to hash out the trials and successes in the young and exciting field of Angel syndicates. Then, Nigel Eccles, CEO of FanDuel, uses real data to explain why daily fantasy leagues are gaining so much popularity. He also clears up the differences between gambling and fantasy sports.
Have you ever wondered what it takes to build a truly scalable business from the ground up? Filmed on the LAUNCH Stage at the 2016 LAUNCH Festival, episode 637 of This Week in Startups features two very successful entrepreneurs who share some insights into how they have managed to scale their global companies. First, Jeff Glueck, CEO of Foursquare, talks with Jason about splitting the product into two separate apps, bridging the digital & the physical, and using data to map the world. Then, Adi Tatarko, CEO of Houzz, gives an in-depth look at the company, where they started, and how they reached a monthly user base of over 35 million worldwide.
Filmed on the LAUNCH Stage at the 2016 LAUNCH Festival, Joe DeSimone of Carbon3D and Will Marshall of Planet Labs demonstrate why their companies go beyond the cutting edge in their respective industries. First, Will Marshall brings in one of Planet Labs’ ultra compact satellites, which, having deployed over 150 into orbit, are creating a hyper-efficient Earth imaging system with virtually endless application possibilities. Then, Jason sits down with Joe DeSimone to find out what Carbon3D brings to the market, and how their innovative new approach to 3D printing is creating stronger, more sustainable products from higher quality materials.
Five Key Takeaways:
Ultra compact satellites
By offering satellites that are literally 1/1000th the mass of a typical satellite, Planet Labs has reduced the cost of deploying their machines by exponential figures. This has allowed the company to create a system of 150 satellites that will take real time images of every single point on Earth every day. They do this through a process they call a “line scanner for the planet.”
Will Planet Labs open up their API?
Jason asks about the possibility of opening up the platform for developers to play with the imaging and data. Will confirms that Planet Labs has already made their platform available at planet.com. There is virtually no limit to the applications that could be created through these satellites, so Planet Labs strongly encourages developers to manage new and innovative ways to utilize the data.
Search and Rescue
Tracking deforestation and aiding in disaster relief efforts are only two of the many ways in which Planet Labs’ project will be of the utmost importance in the coming years. Missing planes, such as the MH370, will be a thing of the past. In Haiti’s situation, post-disaster imaging was prevalent, but there were not updated images prior to the earthquake, so it was extremely difficult to figure out what had happened… this will not be a problem anymore as Planet Labs is expected to capture daily imaging of the entire Earth by the end of the year.
The “chasm” between 3D printing and 3D manufacturing
Joe DeSimone recognizes that the 3D printing’s only applicable purpose at the moment is for prototyping. Carbon3D seeks to close the bridge between prototyping and manufacturing to create real, industrial grade products that can go directly from the printer to the consumer. Through a new, faster process called CLIP (continuous liquid interface production), Carbon3D can now utilize stronger, more durable materials such as elastomer, cyanate ester, and polyurethane to make quality products ready for immediate use.
Focus on building the parts
Jason asks about the future of 3D printing, “Are we going to eventually have cars 3D printed?” Joe believes that it is going to start with printing the components of the car. “The biggest opportunity for 3D is that complexity becomes free.” At Carbon3D, they are able to build extremely complex car parts with maximum efficiency, perfect replication, and consistent repetition. The conversation turns to 3D applications in the medical field and the future of “bioprinting.”
E634: Hadley Wickham, RStudio Scientist & open source pioneer, on data, stats, philosophy by This Week in Startups
Are Millennials too entitled? Is Artificial Intelligence going to destroy the workforce? If you had to choose between Trump and Cruz, which poison would you prefer? On today’s News Roundtable, Episode 633 of This Week in Startups, Jason discusses all of these disturbing subjects and much more with Ben Parr, author of Captivology: The Science of Capturing People’s Attention, and Lon Harris, Editorial Director at Inside.com. With topics ranging from the boundaries of free speech and privacy to Jason’s plans for a transportation overhaul as the future mayor of San Francisco, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!
Timestamps:
0:48-2:49: Jason gives a quick introduction and background of his guests: Ben Parr and Lon Harris.
2:49-7:11: Microsoft’s teen Twitter bot quickly became the new favorite medium for internet trolls.
7:11-12:09: The group discusses the difference between AI and conscious AI.
12:09-17:02: Ben responds to the reality of robots and AI automating tasks in the workforce, and Jason explains the implications of cutting edge companies like CafeX in the immediate future.
17:02-29:45: Jason asks Ben and Lon which three jobs they believe will go extinct within the next ten years.
29:45-37:00: Lon gives us a recap of a story he wrote on a Yelp employee who got into some trouble for openly complaining about being underpaid. The conversation reverts back to AI and why stories like this are only going to become more common.
37:00-48:48: Jason shares his beliefs about the deeper issues with infrastructure in San Francisco, and what we should do about it.
48:48-55:49: Hulk Hogan’s lawsuit against Gawker ended in a $140 million payout, and ignited a debate over personal privacy and free speech.
55:49-1:11:25: The discussion leads to the boundaries for journalists in regards to invasion of privacy. Where is the line?
1:11:25-1:25:38: Hulu’s new VR feature, a smart windshield, and a smart oven… Jason gives his opinions on a few of the newest products on the tech market.
1:25:38-1:36:20: The group debates whether Cruz or Trump is worse, and the frightening political scenario America is currently facing.
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In episode 632 of This Week in Startups, Jason sits down with Parker Thompson, creator of popular parody Twitter account Startup L. Jackson, current partner at AngelList, and previous partner at 500 Startups. Topics of conversation range from the inspiration behind Startup L. Jackson to having ‘sharp elbows’ on the internet, from diversity in entrepreneurship and investment to how AngelList syndicates and equity crowdfunding rules are changing the venture capital landscape.
Sebastian Thrun (Udacity, fmr GoogleX) & George Zachary (CRV) on democratizing higher ed & the future of jobs; bonus: Ludlow Venture's Jonathon Triest on authenticity & success
Keith Rabois on his home-buying disruptor Opendoor, the political storm, advice for founders, & the rules of innovation at LAUNCH Festival; bonus: Cyan Banister on investing with purpose at LAUNCH Angel Summit.
Today, Jason is joined on the LAUNCH Festival stage by Shervin Pishevar and Brogan BamBrogan, Co-founders of Hyperloop Technologies. The Hyperloop is happening and we learn all about it! How it works, costs, location, government support (here and abroad), infrastructure, potential affects of the current Presidential race, the nature of ‘new cities’ and all the incredible innovation surrounding it.
Hyperloop Will Levitate Brogan gives a great explanation of the technology behind Hyperloop; if you’re not familiar with it, it will in fact be a levitating pod inside a tube, powered by electromagnets and taking advantage of reduced air resistance to travel at extremely fast speeds. It’s not magic, but it’s probably going to look like it.
Hyperloop Aims to be Cost Effective Several times, both Brogan and Shervin underscore the fact that the technology to build Hyperloop currently exists - the goal at Hyperloop Technologies as a company is to make the Hyperloop cost effective. They assert that if the Hyperloop isn’t cost effective, it won’t be as revolutionary as they know it can be.
The First Hyperloop Test is Happening This Year You might be surprised to learn that Hyperloop Technologies will run their first tests by the end of 2016. The team has been hard at work since signing a lease for their Nevada test site in December, and will have over three miles of tube and rails on which to run Hyperloop pods.
Hyperloop is a Capital Intensive Project Jason asks Shervin about the cost of bring Hyperloop from idea to reality, and he gives some insight: their first round of funding was for $11 million, and their next round target is $70 million to fund the test runs in Nevada. Brogan also estimates that a San Francisco to Los Angeles rout will cost between $15 and $20 billion. At the same time, these estimates are taking advantage of cost effective innovations.
Hyperloop May Be Abroad Before it is in the U.S. Shervin and Brogan give insights into how there are countries all over the world are interested in adding Hyperloop technology, and many of them will create regulatory opportunities faster than the U.S. Shervin also ends the conversation discussing how the winner of this presidential race will affect how quickly the U.S. will adopt Hyperloop transport.
Hyperloop Will Disrupt the Aviation Industry in Specific Ways Jason asks Shervin about how Hyperloop will disrupt the aviation industry, and he gives a measured answer: short-term transport will definitely be affected, but initially long-term air travel will not be impacted. You’ll still be able to fly cross-country, if you love those tiny airplane seats.
Someday, You Will Take the Hyperloop Beneath the Oceans While Brogan points out that the technology currently exists to build a Hyperloop route from Long Beach to Shenzhen or Shanghai. The big hurdle that Hyperloop Technologies is trying to overcome is in creating the most cost effective way to create that route. By the end of our lifetimes though, it will be a real possibility.
Elon Musk Came Up with the Idea, But Isn’t Affiliated with Hyperloop Technologies While SpaceX hosed the Pod design and build competition in 2015, this was just one part of what Shervin calls the Hyperloop “movement.” He talk about how much the support the idea has, and how Hyperloop Technologies is just one company helping support and make the technology a reality.
At 2016 LAUNCH Festival, Jason sits down with Chamath Palihapitiya, Founder and CEO of Social Capital. It's classic, candid Chamath sharing his insights on the changing morality in America (for better and worse), the insanity of Donald Trump, the critical importance of diversity in venture capital, income inequality, why we should hope that Theranos' Elizabeth Holmes will prevail, the four things you should look for when choosing your investors, predictions on self-driving cars, which will be the next $300b company -- and much more. You don't want to miss this!
Pinterest product growth lead Casey Winters gives a crash course in growing a startup (or, WTF is growth?)
In episode 626 of This Week in Startups, Jason sits down with Zapier CEO and co-founder Wade Foster. Through the lens both of their experiences with Zapier – Jason as a user and Wade as a founder – they discuss the origins of Zapier, how Wade and his fellow co-founders have navigated the tricky waters of incubators and raising capital in the past five years, and the future of the company. They also spend time talking about the power of automation, the future of work, and managing distributed teams. Read below for some of the highlights from the episode.
The Origins of Zapier
Jason and Wade spend time throughout the episode discussing the origins of Zapier, why Wade and co-founders Bryan Helmig and Mike Knoop built the product, and how the company has grown. From their beginnings as developers building one-off integrations to their time in y Combinator to their capital structure and revenue-generation, Wade gives Jason insight into how they’ve survived the turbulent waters of Silicon Valley and have enjoyed steady but ample growth to the point where they are a multi-million dollar company today.
The Future of Work & Managing Distributed Teams
In light of the ability to use Zapier to automate a variety of tasks that were formerly clerical or resource intensive, repetitive administrative tasks, Jason and Wade talk about how Zapier is part of the movement changing the future of work. They also spend time discussing the systems Zapier has built to help manage their distributed team and the accountability they’ve built into those systems.
The Future of Zapier & Integrations
Jason spends time asking Wade about his goals for the future of Zapier, and they discuss how the steady growth Zapier has seen in the past few years is a good trajectory for the company. Wade talks about how working with big companies like Google and Microsoft differ from small-to-medium size companies, how B2C company integrations and APIs differ from B2B companies, and how Zapier plans to meet all of these opportunities going forward.
Timestamps
0:54 - 3:49: Jason introduces Wade Foster, co-founder & CEO at Zapier, and explains how Zapier works.
3:49 - 10:00: Jason asks Wade why he and cofounder Bryan started Zapier, and Wade gives a few demos.
12:18 - 17:09: Wade and Jason discuss the idea of multi-step Zaps and how these could be stacked together to create chains of zaps, and how this will affect the future of work
17:05 - 19:54: Jason asks Wade about how integrations are added to Zapier, and they chat more about the business model.
22:21 - 25:43: Wade and Jason talk about the success of This Week in Startups, the 140-character limit, and Kanye.
25:44 - 28:00: Jason asks Wade about Twitter and their recent changes to the API, and Wade discusses the differences between how B2C and B2B companies approach API integrations and stickiness for the end user.
28:00 - 31:04: Wade and Jason continue talking about Twitter’s API openness, and what options they think Twitter has going forward.
31:05 - 34:24: Wade discusses how they manage the distributed team at Zapier
34:25 - 39:31: Jason asks Wade about the future of Zapier, the invisibility of the tool, and their new concierge program.
39:31 - 43:05: Wade and Jason talk about the internet of things and how it will connect to the future of the company, and about the Amazon Echo.
43:06 - 46:00: Jason asks Wade about the integrations he’s most looking forward to adding to Zapier someday, and the future of enterprise and workflow designers related to Zapier.
46:00 - 50:14: Jason and Wade discuss various aspects of the business of Zapier.
On episode 625 of “This Week in Startups,” Jason talks to founders of two very different, emerging markets: solar energy and artisanal mixers. His first guest is Jonah Greenberger, whose company Bright is bringing affordable solar power installation to developing countries. It’s a great conversation about the state of solar, both in the US and abroad, and the power of brand ambassadors and providing an entirely new career opportunity to hundreds of students in Mexico. Next up is Jennie Ripps, the creator of the first tea cocktail mixer, Owl’s Brew.
Here are their five biggest lessons to emerging entrepreneurs.
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Working in another country? Know the economy
When you’re providing services in developing countries, you encounter all sorts of unique business challenges. Jonah says one of the biggest ones for him has been convincing customers in Mexico to sign a long-term contract. Since the economy suffered a mortgage crisis, homeowners have been reluctant to enter a multi-year contract (even car leases are three years max!) and favor sticking to cash. “We were totally dumb-founded by this at first,” Jonah says. “Solar makes so much sense but the reason it hasn’t taken off in a lot of these countries is because of that emotional aversion to the long-term contract.”
Bring students on board
Bright has found enormous success with its “student ambassador” program. Jonah explains that the way he signs long-term contracts is through hundreds of student ambassadors who tap into their own networks. They’re generally attracted to the social mission, but there’s also a career opportunity there in commissions -- Jonah claims his best “ambassador” is making six figures.
Clock in time at all sorts of companies
Prior to launching Bright, Jonah spent time with Chevron and insists he has no regrets about his years with the corporation. “To do an energy company, you have to go to a global company and see how it works,” he says. “I’m biased, I think Chevron has high-integrity people, but it’s a job. They’re working to make money and help the economy.”
Consider a co-packer
Jennie, like a lot of new company founders, couldn’t handle manufacturing all on her own, so she brought a co-packer in to help with Owl’s Brew. Her co-packer receives all labels and bottles that she orders from a third party, then uses her formula to mix and seal bottles for her. Generally, they’ll take a small tolling fee (i.e. $1-3) per case. There is, of course, some uneasiness about sharing your formula, but Jennie insists the right co-packer will set you at ease.
Establish yourself as a brand
Although finding a co-packer you trust is key, Jennie says one of the biggest ways to defend yourself from potential formula swiping is to make yourself a recognizable brand that people love. “We’re the first tea-based cocktail mixer to market,” she says. “It’s awesome, but it presents a lot of challenges because people don’t know what it is. They don’t understand.” She’s been combating this with several partnership (including a marketing one with Diageo) and an original book full of recipes and mixing tips.
In episode 624 of This Week in Startups, Intercom cofounder Des Traynorspeaks to the LAUNCH Incubator. His talk, titled “Thinking Through the Funnel,” leads founders through different issues they should consider when trying to acquire users. Des lays a foundation by saying that most companies have no difficulty getting their first hundred, thousand, or sometimes even million users; it’s keeping those users that is the truly challenging task for companies. Read on for a quick walkthrough of the four main steps of getting — and keeping — users.
Scheduling a simple coffee meeting can take days and countless emails to complete, but Dennis Mortensen wants to change all that -- and more. In episode 623 of “This Week in Startups,” the founder of x.ai show us his AI assistant, which sets meetings for you like an actual human. He also shares his thoughts on Siri, Echo, the Danish tax system, his vision for x.ai’s AI assistants conquering other tasks, and the future of artificial intelligence.
In episode 622 of This Week in Startups, Jason sits down with Alec Ross, author of The Industries of the Future to discuss technology, employment, and the future of the United States economy (as well as the world). Their conversation ranges from Alec’s experiences working as Senior Advisor for Innovation for Hillary Clinton during her tenure as Secretary of State to how unemployment rates in the U.S. differ from elsewhere, from robots and technology replacing (some) jobs in the future to Alec’s three greatest global fears -- and much more.
E621: Science rules! Rowbots transforms agriculture with robotic farming & Experiment.com crowdfunds cutting-edge research.
In episode 620 of This Week in Startups, Jason sits down with Gagan Biyani, CEO and cofounder of Sprig, formerly of Udemy and -- Jason learns through the course of the conversation -- Lyft. They discuss Gagan’s background in entrepreneurship and peer-to-peer services as a foundation for the work he’s doing with Sprig, a brand-new Sprig feature, and the tremendous future he predicts for the company.
News Roundtable with Molly Wood of Marketplace and Nellie Bowles of The Guardian talk Theranos, LinkedIn, Yahoo!, what’s up w/YC, warped SF & the land customer service forgot (hint: SV)
Today Jason sits down with Brock Pierce, Managing Partner at Blockchain Capital and Chairman of the Bitcoin Foundation. Together, they discuss blockchain protocol, bitcoin mining and scalability, innovative use cases, and the future of cryptocurrency. Throughout the episode, Jason asks Brock important questions about the technology and future of Bitcoin and blockchain; these answers provide insight into the cryptocurrency industry as a whole, and the huge potential it will have to change the world.
Wall Street Journal's John Carreyrou started reporting on Theranos nearly a year ago, since uncovering a multitude of troubling facts about the fast-rising startup amid a firestorm of controversy. In October 2015, John informed the public about the co's struggles with its blood-testing tech. This week, it's the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) findings that Theranos lab poses an immediate risk to patient health. And today, in an exclusive interview, John breaks the news that Walgreens is suspending use of a CA Theranos lab and closing its Wellness Center, effective immediately. Jason and John dive into the details of the Theranos story, starting from John's initial tip about something amiss through today's stunning developments. We learn exactly why CMS considers Theranos to be a public health threat; how Chief Scientific Officer Ian Gibbons, before he took his own life, told his wife that nothing at Theranos was working; John being repeatedly ignored on requests to interview Founder Elizabeth Holmes; insights on his reporting and the WSJ vetting process; the dangers of bringing a healthcare product too soon to market; when, if ever, this story will end -- and much more.
Today Jason sits down with Ben Rattray, founder and CEO of Change.org. It’s the launch of their mobile platform, Change Politics, where citizens can vote on issues and submit questions directly to candidates (so far, to Hillary Clinton, Bernie Sanders, Chris Christie, and counting!). Ben shares his insights from the pivots he’s experienced over the last 9 years, and also stories on how his platform became the change agent for many important issues, from school bullying to suicide, to the Boy Scouts finally allowing gay members, and more. A fascinating discussion about politics, society, and the power of the people.
It’s the News Roundtable with Danielle Morrill, CEO and Founder of Mattermark, and Katie Benner, reporter at the NY Times. Each brings their expertise of deep data and reporting to shed light on the state of the market and projections for 2016. Among the many questions tackled: are we going to have a crash, or just a correction? (and what's the difference?); will there be IPOs in 2016 … and should there be??; what would be the ripple effect of Chinese stock market crash? is this a scary landscape, or exciting? (i.e., time to bail … or buy?) The three also discuss the Apple’s latest forays into A.I. and VR, the on-demand market, the unit economics of Uber, their favorite apps and guilty pleasures. And a heated debate about the ethics of publishing data on companies perceived to be going south … Don’t miss this!
As Co-founder and CEO of Powerhouse, the world’s first solar-focused incubator and accelerator, Emily Kirsch thinks about energy a lot. On today’s This Week in Startups, Jason and Emily sit down to talk all things solar, including the current state of the solar industry and where it’s headed in the next 20 years. Hear Emily’s predictions about the future of solar energy (looking bright), the nuts and bolts of how she runs her incubator and accelerator (and the difference between the two), and a great number of wide-ranging and in-depth discussions from oil in the Middle East to the Tesla Powerwall.
Andy Artz, Partner at Social Capital, shares the major keys to mobile growth success with the LAUNCH Incubator. But first, brothers Kirill & Oleg Zdornyy, the winners of Jason's "Request For Startup" (RFS) stop by the studio to demonstrate Cheshire.tech.
It’s an All #AskJason to jumpstart your 2016! Jason answers 14 fan questions, from selling ideas to successful startups to the top 5 things you should consider when pitching to investors, from business processes that have been surprisingly valuable to Jason to whether he would hire someone with a felony conviction. Also on tap: video trends you can capitalize on, ways to innovate with government, and Jason’s favorite question: is it better to focus on number of users or revenue stream?? All this and much more -- don’t miss it!
Today's two-parter begins with a 52-point Series A checklist from Jed Katz, Managing Director of Javelin Venture Partners. Speaking to the LAUNCH Incubator, Jed lays it all out, from how to present yourself to investors, to how much money to raise, to which VCs to target. Then a bonus segment, and one of the most popular talks from LAUNCH Scale 2015: Kyle Hill, founder of HomeHero, Kyle reveals the seven values that guide his company culture.
Space is the topic today, where out there exists incredible business opportunities. From mining asteroids to low-orbit internet satellites, the entrepreneurial space race is on! Jason's guest is Chris Impey, astronomy professor and author of "Beyond: Our Future in Space," and they dive into everything from our "exploration gene" to Mars colonization and the Mars stars, the amazing range of opportunities for startups wanting to break into the outer limits, why we haven't found evidence of intelligent life and, inevitably, sex in outer space. And much more! A fascinating, mind-expanding discussion about the frontier that is closer than you think. As Jason says: "You don't have to watch science fiction anymore, you can watch startups."
From LAUNCH Mobile Wearables IoT, Jason and Peter Rojas (Engadget, Gizmodo) meet the entrepreneurs on the cutting edge of these industries. First, a fireside chat discussing mobile tech with Scott Croyle from Nextbit; second, it's the Kitchen of the Future with Timothy Chen from Sereneti Kitchen, Brielle Pettinelli from ROOT, and Stephen Svajian from Anova Culinary; third, Matt Galligan from Circa takes the stage to share his lessons and wisdom about startup success and failures. Don't miss this! LAUNCH Mobile Wearables IoT was presented by our friends at Pivotal.
It’s the News Roundtable: Best of 2015! Jason recaps the biggest stories of the year with Ari Levy, Senior Tech Reporter at CNBC, and Dave Mathews, inventor and founder of Newaer. The trio reviews 2015 and predicts 2016 across many areas, such as drone technology, self-driving cars, how Jack will run Twitter, the hottest space race (between Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos?), why Elon is Entrepreneur of the Year (maybe Decade), and Amazon’s dominance in an increasing number of markets. Also in the mix is a Quirky post-mortem, speculation on low IPOs, a message from Jason directly to Theranos employees and what this story represents about journalism, a sushi bet on when 100 driverless commercial vehicles will operate within a city’s limits — and much more.
Today, a special ecommerce episode! Jason sits down with three startup founders innovating in this exciting space. First is Edgar Blazona of BenchMade Modern, an on-demand furniture service that builds personalized sofas, to-the-inch, in 24 hours; second is Kate Kendall from CloudPeeps, a marketplace that connects businesses with the top freelance marketing, content, and community professionals; third is Jason Demant from Bento, an on-demand food delivery app that allows users to customize their meal with Asian-inspired dishes. Thank you to Braintree for sponsoring these three great conversations exploring ecommerce trends, challenges, and opportunities in 2016 and beyond.
In today’s episode, Jason sits down for an investors fireside with leaders Tim Draper (DFJ and Draper Associates) and Troy Carter (Atom Factory) at the Draper Venture Network CEO Summit. Tim uses his extensive experience to analyze the current startup landscape and predict the future of investing. Troy’s unique background in the music industry allows him to draw parallels between unicorn CEOs and former clients like Lady Gaga. Tim and Troy offer their unique perspectives on a wide variety of topics, including launching incubators, what the sheer volume of startups means for the ecosystem, the biggest challenges looking for angel investing, characteristics budding founders need to be better entrepreneurs, the importance of transparency, needing both courage and paranoia to succeed — and much more.
Two of the top-rated speakers from LAUNCH Scale 2015! First is Jared Fliesler, General Partner at Matrix Partners and former growth & product guru at Square, Google, and Slide. Jared shares his best strategies on product marketing, focusing on one thing as a startup, and developing clear, concise and compelling messaging. Second is Erik Moore, Founder of Base Ventures, who offers rock star tips on seeking VC capital and the importance of hustle. And Erik has an awesome surprise … he invites Bay Area rapper Too Short to the stage, who tells us how he employed entrepreneurial hustle to build his business.
News Roundtable! Joining Jason today are Ryan Block (AOL, Engadget) and Brian Alvey (Weblogs Inc., Recurrency), both seasoned and savvy entrepreneurs who are now helming early-stage companies. The trio tackle the latest news, including Yahoo! mess (Yikes!) and Marissa predictions, the interesting 2015 IPO situation (meaning, the lowest # of IPO since 2009), all about Zuckerberg's philanthropy (only on the Internet can you be criticized for giving away $45b), is the Bitcoin-creator mystery solved or what?, Alibaba buying China's largest paper and reflections on our own content landscape, the state of fundraising now and what's to come, Ryan reveals the name of his new company on-air for the first time! -- and much more.
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Legendary angel investor and "Shark Tank" star Chris Sacca returns to TWiST! Chris and Jason sit down to discuss everything from investing in relationships to Jack Dorsey as Twitter's CEO (now and early on). He talks about what he looks for in an investment, how he met Matt Mazzeo, those early years with Twitter and selling people on the business, and how his dream job involved "a lot of being on the phone, a lot of yelling at people... high risk, high reward." Chris shares his experiences on "Shark Tank," how fun it is to bust the chops (he uses a different term...) of Mark Cuban and Kevin O'Leary, and how TV could be part of the next chapter of Chris' life. Chris also listens to pitches from three companies that came out of Jason's LAUNCH Incubator - Requested, LeadIQ and Benchmade Modern - offering feedback to each of the three founders about their businesses and how to move forward.
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Launch Festival: http://launchfestival.com
Special thanks to the members of the TWiST Backchannel!
Support TWiST and join the Backchannel: https://recurrency.us/members/twistartups
Today’s guest is Roger Dickey, Founder of Gigster, an on-demand software development platform that just raised $10m in Series A funding led by Andreessen Horowitz. Roger showcases to Jason how Gigster works, using a sample “Uber for Pizza” project to illustrate how quickly a quote is offered and why it’s so important to qualify the customer. We learn about “the central brain of Gigster” (the AI that puts together the quote so quickly), what it will take to make Gigster a billion-dollar business, the fastest path from an idea to a finished product, why startups should outsource their development and why technical teams can get too attached to their prototypes. Roger also reflects on his time at Zynga (where he founded Mafia Wars and served as a GM), why the company isn’t doing as well as it used to (hint: a tough mobile shift…), and the differences between dominating social gaming on Facebook and dominating in on mobile. ALSO! A bonus segment from LAUNCH Scale, featuring Sue Khim, Founder of Brilliant.org, sharing her growth tactics: specifically, how focusing on triggers, not users, got Brilliant into the “2 comma club.”
All Shark Tank / Ask Jason at TWiST Live! Join in as Jason hears a plethora of startup pitches and serves up his trademark searing feedback. Among the companies we meet: a data platform dairy farmers, an app that helps parents create healthy menus for their kids, the world’s smallest GPS pet tracker, tools to instantly find information you need, a direct link between man and machine, doctors on demand — and much more! Thank you to our partner, Samsung Global Innovation Center, and to Silicon Valley Bank at WeWork Golden Gate.
Special TWiST Live for Ep600! Jason talks to Eric Ries, author of “The Lean Startup” and the upcoming, Kickstarter-backed, “The Leader’s Guide.” Eric and Jason discuss in depth The Lean Startup methodology, what it means today with so many startups out there, and his plans for future publications and resources for supporting entrepreneurship. We hear Eric’s own lessons learned as an entrepreneur (i.e., don’t refuse customers who want to try your product), his insights into the law of sustainable growth and what it means, and secrets on how to measure exponential growth before the point of critical mass. Eric also takes questions from the live audience, answering questions about iterating a new product on a strict timeline, raising money, what makes a great VC, and what he would change if he had to write “The Lean Startup” again (hint: a lot). Thank you to our partner, Samsung Global Innovation Center, for co-hosting this special TWiST Live at WeWork Golden Gate!
LAUNCH Scale 2015 featured 50+ speakers sharing their best growth strategies. And today’s episode features two of these amazing talks. First is Marco Zappacosta, Founder of the unicorn Thumbtack, who talks about his epic success and explains how he built his billion-dollar marketplace. Next is Sonny Mayugba, Founder of Requested, who gave the highest-rated talk of the conference with his presentation on how to grow your startup using street teams.
Babak Hodjat is Co-founder and Chief Scientist of Sentient, the most-funded artificial intelligence startup in the world, which emerged from stealth in 2014 after raising more than $100m Series C (the largest round ever by an AI startup). Though already going strong in financial trading (with 1.5+ CTUs globally), last week they launched Sentient Aware for E-commerce, which is already being used by the Canadian shoes.com and which Babak demonstrates for us. Babak is also the main inventor of the tech behind Siri, and he and Jason discuss the actual intelligence level of Siri, along with many other fascinating aspects of AI, including the ethics behind it, where it falls on the “worry” scale between simple memory chips and nuclear weapons, its potential impact on warfare, gambling, and self-driving cars, and the inevitable 20-year sushi bet! AI is capable of improving ourselves (in the case of health), knowing what we want before it even exists (in the case of e-commerce), but will it be capable of destroying humanity?
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Launch Festival: http://launchfestival.com Special thanks to the members of the TWiST Backchannel! Support TWiST and join the Backchannel: https://recurrency.us/members/twistartups
Jason sits down with the “Godfather of Saas,” Jason Lemkin, to discuss everything from the SaaS (software as a service) industry to angel investing criteria, from Lemkin’s current venture Saastr, to what the field has in store. We learn about the history of SaaS, why we owe a huge debt to Salesforce, and why so few enterprise customers “try before they buy.” The two Jasons further discuss Microsoft’s foray into SaaS, why “lockin” is a myth, the successes of — and differences — between Slack and HipChat, Lemkin’s SaaS investments (including Talkdesk, Algolia), why founders don’t make great VCs, Lemkin’s criteria for an investment (hint: the founder has to be better than him) and Lemkin’s advice on lifetime value to budding SaaS startups. Finally, the Jasons posit what would happen if Google or Microsoft came out with a free Slack competitor (protip: do not get arrogant about your engineers), the hurdles in monetizing a free product, why an acquisition might cost nothing for a big tech company, the mistake many companies made in 2008 and 2009, why choosing the celebrity investor isn’t always the best idea, the sheer volume of startups today — and much more.
From LAUNCH Mobile Wearables & IoT: Jason and Sundeep Madra (VP Strategy and Corporate Development at Pivotal) talk to Jed York, CEO of the San Francisco 49ers, who built the most connected stadium in the world. Jed, Jason, and Sunny discuss the stadium’s high-end Wi-Fi infrastructure, interactive mobile app, augmented reality museum, and the future of sports. Next, Jason and Peter Rojas (co-founder Engadget and Gizmodo) explore the Future of Wellness with 6SensorLabs, Spire, and Fisher Wallace Laboratories. 6SensorLabs’ mobile device Nima tests foods for gluten; Spire helps users remain calm by tracking breathing; Fisher Wallace Laboratories is the first to have a device that’s FDA approved to treat depression, anxiety, and insomnia. LAUNCH Mobile, Wearables & Iot was presented by our friends at Pivotal.
It’s the Futures of the Smartwatch, Transportation, and On-Demand from LAUNCH Mobile, Wearables & IoT! First, Eric Migicovsky, founder and CEO of Pebble, shows us his latest in timeround and talks with Jason and Peter Rojas (co-founder of Engadget and Gizmodo) about how apps are becoming more integrated into smartwatches and where the technology is headed. Second, Jason, Peter, and Janice Fraser (Director, Innovation Practice at Pivotal) explore the Future of Transportation with Skully, a motorcycle helmet with a heads-up display that provides information like speed, upcoming traffic, weather, and maps to keep the driver's eyes on the road, and Automatic, a device that connects to the car, allowing users to access all of the car's data and become better drivers. Third, they look at the Future of On Demand and apps as a service with with Luxe (valet parking), Scout (personal travel concierge), and Wrapify (make money while you drive). LAUNCH Mobile, Wearables & Iot was presented by our friends at Pivotal.
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Scott Walker at Walker Corporate Law. Scott loves startups and shows it, with fixed-fee pricing. Have a question? Email him directly, scott@walkercorporatelaw.com, and tell him Jason sent you.
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Launch Festival: http://launchfestival.com Special thanks to the members of the TWiST Backchannel! Support TWiST and join the Backchannel: https://recurrency.us/members/twistartups
Miles Beckett, creator of the first web series "lonelygirl15," joins Jason today to discuss his latest adventure. Returning to his M.D. roots, Miles founded Silversheet, a verification platform for doctors and nurses and a certification platform for surgery centers. A fascinating conversation about the rise of technology (and optimism) in healthcare, the importance of network effect and its role in Silversheet's development, future field developments including telemedicine and occupational outlook for professionals, why med schools are losing money, current system challenges (hint: if you have kids, don't go to Urgent Care ... go to the ER!) -- branding, how "lonelygirl15" came about, the history of YouTube, and much more. Never miss an episode! Subscribe in iTunes: Audio (http://bit.ly/TwiStA) || Video (http://bit.ly/TwiStV)
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Scott Walker at Walker Corporate Law. Scott loves startups and shows it, with fixed-fee pricing. Have a question? Email him directly at scott@walkercorporatelaw.com and tell him Jason sent you.
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Special thanks to the members of the TWiST Backchannel Program!
Amir Efrati of The Information and Eric Newcomer of Bloomberg join Jason today to break down the latest tech news. Twitter's new heart and its meaning; Prop F failure, Airbnb dominance, and San Francisco's housing crisis; Google's solution to its fragmentation; Android antics; smartwatches and why the Apple Watch hasn't taken off with consumers; Square's IPO and the dangers of filing for an IPO too late; why journalists are obsessed with unicorn companies; how self-driving cars will impact companies like Uber, how long we have to wait until mass adoption, how Uber will handle growing in China and India; Jason's 2019 mayoral campaign -- and much more.
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Launch Festival: http://launchfestival.com Special thanks to the members of the TWiST Backchannel! Support TWiST and join the Backchannel: https://recurrency.us/members/twistartups
TWISTA's final episode of Series 2 opens in conversation with Peter Bradd, Fishburners co-founder, and the new CEO of StartupAUS, with a mandate to build bridges between politicians and the tech community. Then we talk to Alex Haggerty, founder of Taggd, which has launched one of the most unusual - and unusually lucrative - startups in recent memory, connecting Instagram to e-commerce to close more sales. Finally, we'll review and reflect upon the highs and lows of Series 2 - with a special announcement from AirTree VC! Moving forward and looking back on this episode of TWISTA!
Failure is part of the life-cycle for almost every tech startup. Yet it's the one thing most entrepreneurs will never discuss.
TWISTA shines light on this darkest of subjects in conversation with Nikki Durkin, who fought the good fight with startup 99dresses, but eventually ran out of money.
Then Jesse Black talks about the journey from winning a Startup Weekend to drawing the final curtain on a product that even he didn't want to use.
Finally, Melbourne Matt Allen interviews a notorious serial entrepreneur - by the name of Mark Pesce - about what it felt like to liquidate his own startup. We fearlessly confront the entrepreneur's darkest hour in this episode of TWISTA.
On our latest news special, TWISTA is joined by Dean Dorrell, Principal and Founder of Carthona Capital, and ZDNet's Josh Taylor. We start off speaking with SparkeHelmore's Daniel Atkin, who's developed a set of open-source legal documents startups can use to assist them in preparing the paperwork for seed funding. Then we're off into a discussion of changes to immigration law (and how it will transform VC in Australia), Ingogo's crowdinvesting raise with VentureCrowd, and why every telco has to have an incubator. All the news important to startups, on this episode of TWISTA.
TWISTA talks to some of Australia's fastest-growing startups: At every stage of its existence a startup faces challenges relating to growth. Vinomofo co-founders Justin Dry and Andre Eikmeier talk to TWISTA about the sacrifices involved in growing one of the country's most successful online retailers, then Blrt founder Anurag Chakradhar talks about what it's like to have a product that's so hot, he's worried he can't grow fast enough. Finally, TWISTA reconnects with GoFar co-founders Danny Adams and Ian Davidson, who just finished a successful $200K Kickstarter campaign, and have grown from a 2-person shop to (at times) nearly 20. Mo growth, mo problems, on this episode of TWISTA.
TWISTA goes trans-Tasman to scope out Auckland's startups
The universe next door - or as it styles itself, New Zealand - has a thriving startup ecosystem. TWISTA talks to Chris Twiss, who runs the Seed Ventures arm of the New Zealand Venture Investment Fund. Then, Nick Sherwing and Jonah Merchant of BizDojo talk about creating a co-working space that helps startups in Auckland and Wellington thrive. Finally, we visit the offices and factory floor of Auckland's hottest hardware startup, StretchSense. What's it like to be the first employee at a startup growing like mad? We ask Antoni Harbuz and Shin Jeong Park. All of that and more in this episode of This Week in Startups Australia - and New Zealand!
The tech industry is a very imperfect reflection of the world it builds products for. How can mostly-white, mostly-middle-class, mostly-men build great products for cultures they've never experienced? We see lots of young girls interested in coding become discouraged and quit the field by the time they go to university. Where are the women founders and women investors? Paul Wallbank joins TWISTA to discuss a recent article he's written detailing some of these persistent problems. Then we have a long chat with Scale Investors CEO Laura Mckenzie, who is building a strong network of female angel investors and female tech founders into something completely unique - and uniquely potent - in Australia.
TWISTA is back to get some schoolin'. First up, MyEdApp co-founder Rowan Kunz talks about the importance of listening to teachers _before_ you design a product for the education market. Then, legal eagle Kurt Falkenstein talks us through the right - and wrong - ways to incorporate and organize your Australian startup.
Pete Cooper and Ben Grubb join TWISTA to discuss the news that matters for Australian startups.
Legendary entrepreneur and investor Pete Cooper and Fairfax tech editor Ben Grubb sit down with TWISTA to discuss the news of importance to Australian startups: positive changes to the Employee Share Scheme; BugCrowd's $6M raise; politics, politicians, metadata collection and startups; why are there so many fintech accelerators in Australia? and the business of Apple Watch.
This episode is sponsored by OptusInnov8 and Newsmodo.
James Moody, CEO of TuShare, tells TWISTA how he discovered another startup - Sendle - within his startup. (And what's it like to run two startups simultaneously?) Later, Murray Hurps joins TWISTA to talk politics - which MPs do the most for startups? Finally, we go around the world to review East Africa's hottest startup, Kopo Kopo, and the winners of Launch 2015.
Scott Handsaker wants to make sure Melbourne isn't left behind by Sydney as a center of excellence for technology entrepreneurs. Scott talks to TWISTA about how Startup Victoria provides an environment that allows founders the best possible chance for success. Then Chris Guzowski of ABA Tech tells TWISTA why it's so hard to buy Bitcoins - and why ATMs might make that process a lot easier.
MASSIVE SERIES 2 PREMIERE with Canva founder and Australian legend Cameron Adams joins TWISTA to talk about making products design-centered and customer-focused, then AirTree VC partner Craig Blair gives us the unvarnished truth about why - after reviewing over 200 business plans - he's found it hard to invest in more than a handful.
In this special TWIST, Jason hosts author, angel investor, and entrepreneur extraordinaire Tim Ferriss for a fireside chat in front of a live audience at Pivotal Labs! In this epic, in-depth conversation Tim reveals select secrets to his successes, including: Who he was before becoming THE Tim Ferriss; What crazy experiments on his own body has shocked even ER doctors; Where he and Jason enjoyed their bromance last summer; When he will close what he believes is the largest syndicate round the angel list has ever seen; Why “The Princess Bride” is his favorite screenplay — and why he’s writing his own; and How being both careful and impulsive serves his investment decisions so well. You can’t miss this!!
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Scott Walker at Walker Corporate Law. Scott loves startups and shows it, with fixed-fee pricing. Have a question? Email him directly, scott@walkercorporatelaw.com, and tell him Jason sent you.
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==============
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Launch Ticker: http://launch.co Launch Festival: http://festival.launch.co Special thanks to the members of the TWiST Backchannel Program!
On This Week in Startups, first-time entrepreneur Michael Preysman joined Jason to discuss his disruptive play in the luxury clothing space. Everlane, Michael’s company, offers designer goods (think tees, sweatshirts, totes and [...]