Today’s episode of Request for Startups features

* Joe Fernandez : Co-Founder and CEO of allUP, Former CEO and Co-Founder at Joymode and Klout, @JoeFernandez on X

* Erik Torenberg: Investor, Founder of Turpentine.co. @eriktorenberg on X

In this conversation, Joe Fernandez, Co-Founder and CEO of allUP, joins Erik Torenberg as he discusses building in the online reputation space. They explore the ever-increasing importance of trust in the age of AI and the unique challenges of building a startup in this space, potential data businesses that could be built on top of reputation, and more. 

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Intro

(00:27) Klout’s journey

(02:00) Importance of online reputation

(05:13) Navigating the idea maze

(10:43) Professional networks

(12:45) Sponsor: Turpentine

(13:33) Exploring different modalities and data sources

(17:12) Future of reputation data

(22:03) Reflecting on Klout and lessons learned

(23:57) Building first-party data with allUp

(27:35) Wrap—

Request for Startups is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at erik@turpentine.co.

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This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit requestforstartups.substack.com