Bold Names

Evan Smith, co-founder and CEO of Altana, offers a unique perspective on the unraveling of globalization and its effects on supply chains. He discusses how President Trump’s tariffs have created chaos in global trade, forcing companies to rethink their processes. Smith raises concerns about a shift away from free trade ideals towards a new geopolitical landscape, emphasizing the need for trusted networks and cooperation. He highlights the growing influence of nations like China and Russia, and Mexico's strategic role in emerging supply chains.

Michael Mager, co-founder and CEO of Precision Neuroscience, discusses pioneering brain-computer interfaces designed to assist those with severe mobility issues. He shares the company's vision for making non-invasive brain implants available to millions and the challenges involved in competing with giants like Neuralink. Mager also reflects on recent FDA approvals and the potential for these technologies to revolutionize lives, turning once rare procedures into standard healthcare solutions.

In this discussion, Sarah Guo, a rising star in Silicon Valley and founder of Conviction, explores the next big wave of AI innovation, particularly in enterprise software. She shares insights on what she looks for in investment opportunities and why she believes the SaaS sector is ripe for transformation. Guo also reflects on the shifting landscape of venture capital, emphasizing the importance of empathy in supporting startups. The conversation covers emerging trends among young entrepreneurs and the influence of political polarization on tech dialogue.

Keller Rinaudo Cliffton, CEO and co-founder of Zipline, is revolutionizing logistics with autonomous drones for delivery. He shares insights on how Zipline transitioned from delivering medical supplies in Africa to potentially bringing burritos to American backyards. Cliffton discusses competing with giants like Amazon, emphasizing safety in daily high-frequency deliveries. He also highlights the challenges of urban drone logistics and the importance of in-house manufacturing to drive rapid innovation in this evolving industry.

Peter Jackson, CEO of Flutter Entertainment, oversees a global sports betting empire, including FanDuel. He discusses how technology is revolutionizing sports betting while addressing its potential harms. Jackson highlights the rapid growth of the industry and the innovative features enhancing user engagement, such as customizable bets and real-time tracking. He also emphasizes the importance of responsible gambling practices, balancing the excitement of betting with the need for safeguards against addiction.

Rajiv Shah, president of the Rockefeller Foundation and former head of USAID, has spent his career on the frontlines of the fight against global poverty. That gives him unique insight into the rapidly changing world of foreign aid and philanthropy. How are NGOs attempting to fill the funding gaps left as the Trump administration turns inward? Shah speaks to WSJ’s Christopher Mims and Tim Higgins on the latest episode of the Bold Names podcast. Check Out Past Episodes: ‘Businesses Don’t Like Uncertainty’: How Cisco Is Navigating AI and Trump 2.0  Palmer Luckey's 'I Told You So' Tour: AI Weapons and Vindication Reid Hoffman Says AI Isn’t an ‘Arms Race,’ but America Needs to Win Let us know what you think of the show. Email us at BoldNames@wsj.com Sign up for the WSJ's free Technology newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Get ready for insightful conversations with industry leaders on pressing trends and challenges. Expect a deep dive into the world of innovation and leadership as powerful voices share their experiences. Hear directly from influential figures who are shaping the landscape of their fields. This season promises engaging discussions that will inspire and inform.

In this engaging discussion, Chuck Robbins, CEO of Cisco and chairman of the Business Roundtable, shares insights on the intersection of business, AI, and politics. He navigates the challenges presented by the Trump administration and examines how CEOs adapt strategies around trade and tariffs. Robbins also reflects on lessons learned from basketball, illustrating teamwork's importance in leadership. He highlights Cisco's approach to AI, emphasizing the balance between innovation and regulatory concerns while ensuring business resilience in uncertain times.

Aicha Evans, CEO of Zoox and former Intel executive, shares her vision for the future of transportation as she leads Zoox's launch of a revolutionary robotaxi service. She discusses the unique lounge-like design of their driverless cars and the importance of passenger comfort. Evans also dives into the competitive landscape, tackling challenges posed by rivals like Waymo and Tesla. With humor, she highlights the hurdles of operational efficiency and safety, emphasizing the need for public trust as Zoox prepares for its commercial debut.

Palmer Luckey, founder of Anduril and former Oculus VR innovator, discusses his unique transition from virtual reality to defense manufacturing. He shares insights on enhancing battlefield awareness with augmented reality, specifically through military contracts like the Integrated Visual Augmentation System. Luckey also highlights the growing role of AI in military aviation and the strategic implications of autonomous combat systems. Additionally, he addresses the partnership potential between tech firms and military agencies, emphasizing the shift in Silicon Valley's political landscape.