Data Science at Home Your Favorite AI Startup is Probably Bullshit (Ep. 298) [RB]
Jan 30, 2026
A sharp takedown of the AI funding frenzy and why many startups are glorified wrappers around existing models. A critique of investors mistaking pattern matching for technical understanding. Parallels drawn to past hype cycles like blockchain. Discussion of inflated valuations, the raise-build-sell playbook, and where real research gets drowned out by buzzword products.
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VCs Repeat Bubble Behavior
- Venture capital is funding AI with the same clueless fervor as past bubbles like Dogecoin and blockchain.
- Francesco Gadaleta argues most investors misunderstand AI and chase buzzwords over substance.
Blockchain Déjà Vu
- Francesco recalls the 2017 blockchain frenzy where companies tacked blockchain onto everything.
- He uses exaggerated examples to show how hype divorced technology from real utility.
Narrow Wins Fuel Wild Extrapolation
- Investors extrapolate narrow model successes into grand claims about replacing humans.
- Francesco compares this to mistaking a good hammer for a solution to every problem.