Roy Lee, Founder & CEO of Cluely, announces their $15M from Andreessen Horowitz to build what they call the most viral AI startup in the world. In this deep dive, we break down their product, business model, fundraising strategy, controversial stunt marketing playbook, and what it means to scale with creator-led growth.
With over $20M in total funding, Cluely is building real-time, undetectable screen overlays, Cluely is rethinking how AI should show up in your workflow, and they’re doing it profitably.
Cluely last announced their $5.3M Seed round in April 2025, co-led by Abstract Ventures and Susa Ventures.
Whether you think they’re brilliant or reckless, this is one of the most fascinating startup stories in tech right now.
Try Cluely: https://cluely.com/
Molly on X: https://x.com/MollySOSheaRoy on X: https://x.com/im_roy_lee
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00:35 - $15M Led by a16z
02:21 - Cluely’s Viral Mega Launch
03:07 - Fundraising Strategies & Founder Mindset
04:51 - From Columbia to Silicon Valley
08:17 - Cluely: Product Overview & Vision
16:39 - Business Model & Profitability
21:10 - Stunt Marketing & Virality
26:48 - Idol: Elon Musk's Freedom & Success
27:05 - Controversies
27:46 - Criticism28:09 - Will Roy Go To Jail?
29:54 - Selling to Enterprise
32:20 - Importance of Viral Content
33:58 - Team Dynamics & 50 Interns
36:03 - Managing Stunts & Culture
46:36 - Leadership Challenges & Personal Reflections
51:09 - Kalshi Predictions & Future Outlook#podcast #investing #technology #venturecapital #entrepreneur #startup #siliconvalley #Cluely #SeriesA #a16z #AmbientAI #FounderLed #CreatorLedGrowth #ViralMarketing #UndetectableAI #EscapeVelocity #ConquerorOfTheUniverse #RoyLee
