Roy Lee, founder and CEO of Cluely, discusses his AI startup's $15 million Andreessen Horowitz investment and their provocative "cheat on everything" marketing approach that has gone viral across the tech industry. They explore Cluely's real-time AI assistant that provides undetectable information during meetings and interviews, Roy's philosophy of "AI maximalism," and his vision for a post-AGI world where humans are freed from economic necessity to pursue intrinsic interests. The conversation covers his controversial stance on dissolving copyright and privacy norms for efficiency gains, the resonance of his message with young people, and how he believes society should adapt to increasingly capable AI systems. Despite the edgy messaging, Roy presents thoughtful perspectives on competing with tech giants and building technology that anticipates entirely new social contracts in an AI-dominated future.
Sponsors:
Oracle Cloud Infrastructure: Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is the next-generation cloud that delivers better performance, faster speeds, and significantly lower costs, including up to 50% less for compute, 70% for storage, and 80% for networking. Run any workload, from infrastructure to AI, in a high-availability environment and try OCI for free with zero commitment at https://oracle.com/cognitive
The AGNTCY: The AGNTCY is an open-source collective dedicated to building the Internet of Agents, enabling AI agents to communicate and collaborate seamlessly across frameworks. Join a community of engineers focused on high-quality multi-agent software and support the initiative at https://agntcy.org
NetSuite by Oracle: NetSuite by Oracle is the AI-powered business management suite trusted by over 42,000 businesses, offering a unified platform for accounting, financial management, inventory, and HR. Gain total visibility and control to make quick decisions and automate everyday tasks—download the free ebook, Navigating Global Trade: Three Insights for Leaders, at https://netsuite.com/cognitive
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CHAPTERS:
(00:00) About the Episode
(03:24) Introduction and Cluey Overview
(10:55) Future Rules and Privacy
(13:20) Positive Vision for Future (Part 1)
(18:01) Sponsors: Oracle Cloud Infrastructure | The AGNTCY
(20:01) Positive Vision for Future (Part 2)
(21:23) Entrepreneurship and Impact Theory
(24:22) Anti-Establishment Marketing Strategy
(27:26) AI in Universities
(30:16) Columbia Expulsion Story
(32:48) AI Maximalism Ethics (Part 1)
(32:53) Sponsor: NetSuite by Oracle
(34:17) AI Maximalism Ethics (Part 2)
(38:29) AI Identification Debate
(46:00) Output vs Input Philosophy
(51:35) Learning and Skill Building
(56:40) Trust and Market Effects
(01:03:42) Assessment and Hiring Revolution
(01:06:47) Viral Marketing Strategy
(01:12:39) Long-term Company Strategy
(01:15:59) High-End Talent Acquisition
(01:18:56) Outro
