#22: Safwaan Kay - AI Hardware, Polyamory, and Buying Internet Brands
Mar 19, 2024
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In this episode, Safwaan Kay discusses AI hardware, polyamory, and buying internet brands. They explore the trends in technology, culture, and business, and the challenges of polyamorous relationships. The podcast covers AI wearables, the impact of AI voice technology in call centers, and revitalizing iconic brands through strategic acquisitions.
Polyamory is a rising trend among wealthy individuals, signaling a shift towards open relationships and personal growth as a status symbol.
Wealthy individuals are shifting towards personal growth as a status symbol, prioritizing beliefs over material possessions for self-actualization.
San Francisco is witnessing a surge in AI-enabled wearable technology development, focusing on new interaction methods beyond traditional screens and keyboards.
Deep dives
The Trend of Polyamory Among Wealthy Individuals
There is a growing conversation around polyamory among wealthy individuals, indicating a trend towards open relationships. Articles from New York Magazine and The Atlantic have explored the concept, revealing the complexities and variations within polyamorous relationships. The practice is becoming more common in San Francisco, associated with specific personality types. While polyamory was once stigmatized, it is now normalized in certain communities.
The Pursuit of Self-Actualization and Luxury Beliefs
Many people, particularly the wealthy, are gravitating towards personal growth and self-actualization as a form of status symbol. The shift from material possessions to beliefs reflects a search for meaning in modern society. The pursuit of self-improvement is seen as a way to achieve personal growth without constraints, embodying a new form of luxury belief. Individuals seek deeper truths and higher purposes to elevate their lives.
The Rise of AI-Enabled Wearable Technology
A growing trend in San Francisco involves young hackers working on AI-enabled wearable technology. Companies like Humane, Rabbit R1, and Tab are producing wearable devices that leverage artificial intelligence. The focus on wearables stems from the belief that voice interactions and AI technologies offer new ways to engage with devices, beyond traditional screens and keyboards.
Private Equity's Strategy of Acquiring Iconic Brands
Private equity firms are acquiring iconic tech brands like Evernote and Meetup, implementing strategies to revitalize these apps. By monetizing and improving products, they increase revenue and reinvest in marketing efforts. The approach involves acquiring brands with established user bases that may have plateaued, focusing on enhancing profitability and sustaining growth.
Innovative Approaches to Company Acquisitions
Alternative strategies to acquiring companies involve product-focused growth and reliance on existing user bases. By modernizing products and incorporating new features like crypto, acquisitions can spur organic growth. Prioritizing product improvements over intensive marketing efforts can drive sustained growth and profitability for acquired brands.
In this episode, we bring back Safwaan Kay to discuss trends in technology, culture, and business. We cover polyamory, AI wearables, and buying iconic internet brands.
GUEST
Safwaan Kay invests and incubates in emerging tech at Founders, Inc.
PODCAST
The Karnjanaprakorn Show is where I explore ideas across life, startups, and technology. As the former founder of Skillshare, I am now following my curiosity as I figure out my next thing. This show follows that journey, exploring topics like longevity, emerging technologies, living a fulfilling life, and more.
CHAPTERS
00:00 Intro
00:52 Polyamory
11:19 AI-Enabled Hardware
27:24 Buying Iconic Companies
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