Equity

Stocks are on the rise globally, while the crypto scene is buzzing with drama between FTX and Binance. Elon Musk's Twitter is in the spotlight as he rolls out controversial moderation reforms and navigates the aftermath of layoffs. Meanwhile, funding news is thriving, with PhotoRoom securing $19 million and Yassir raising a whopping $150 million. There's also buzz about the recently completed Unity megadeal, showcasing the ever-changing landscape of the tech industry.

This week, hosts dive into the intriguing startup Rewind, which records memories for easy access. They explore Onward, a platform easing financial disputes for co-parents, which just secured nearly $10 million in funding. The team also raises eyebrows over Byju's potential IPO and the challenges facing unicorns in the current market. The conversation shifts to the fallout in the fintech sector, with major layoffs at companies like Stripe, sparking discussions on responsible growth and the evolving nature of startup partnerships.

Malia Russell, a senior correspondent at Business Insider known for her sharp insights on startups and venture capital, joins the discussion about the shifting venture landscape. They dive into how investors are adapting, with some rewriting their playbooks for maternity leave policies. The chatter blends humor, including a light-hearted take on Halloween costumes, with serious topics like diversity in the industry. The conversation also addresses the challenges new fund managers face in a competitive market dominated by veteran firms.

Darrell Etherington, a TechCrunch reporter, and Amanda Silberling, known for her insights into the tech and business landscape, dive into the chaos following Elon Musk's Twitter acquisition. They discuss Musk’s dramatic entry, staff layoffs, and clever impersonation antics that highlight meme culture's absurdities. The duo also raises pressing questions about content moderation and advertiser reactions in this new era, alongside the challenging balance between free speech and corporate policy, all while humorously reflecting on Musk's multitasking management style.

The discussion kicks off with the financial impact of Elon Musk's recent Twitter changes and his monetization strategies. It reveals the current state of self-driving technology, which is still lagging behind expectations. The hosts highlight a surge in crypto prices, even as trading volumes decline. There’s an optimistic look at startup investment, with Zebra Labs and Invygo securing funding despite a chilling venture capital landscape. Lastly, they ponder the fate of unicorns as Q4 approaches, raising concerns about potential casualties amidst growing economic uncertainties.

Anita Ramaswamy, a reporter from Chain Reaction, joins hosts Natasha Mascarenhas and Alex Wilhelm to discuss the latest in tech and crypto. They dive into Twitter's tumultuous shifts since Elon Musk's takeover, amid massive layoffs. The conversation shifts to Apple’s stringent App Store fees affecting NFTs, stirring debate among creators. They also touch on the rise of the social media platform BeReal, contrasting its authenticity with other giants. Plus, there's a brief look at the challenges facing Chinese startups in today's volatile market.

Carolyn Childers and Lindsay Kaplan, co-founders of Chief, discuss their mission to empower women in leadership roles through a unique membership model. They explore the growth of their community, skyrocketing from 200 to 20,000 members, and the importance of tailored support for women executives. The duo critiques limiting terms like 'girlboss', emphasizing a broader, mission-driven approach to leadership. They also dive into challenges faced in corporate structures and the significance of peer groups in fostering connection and mentorship among women in senior roles.

The latest discussion dives into the exciting world of innovative startups tackling environmental issues. The winners of a recent competition highlight essential technologies like Minerva Lithium, crucial for battery production. Global stock markets saw mixed results, particularly due to concerns over China's economy. Additionally, there's a thoughtful look at the sluggish NFT market and shifting interests in crypto gaming. The conversation wraps up with insights on anticipated IPOs and the evolving tech landscape.

Rebecca Szkutak, a Senior Writer at TechCrunch, dives into the current startup landscape. She discusses the FDA's game-changing decision to allow over-the-counter hearing aid sales, paving the way for innovation. The conversation also highlights how startups in employee benefits could weather economic cuts while maintaining essential support. Regional investment disparities are analyzed, showcasing the Midwest's potential versus the Southeast's lower valuations. Tune in for a lively exploration of entrepreneurial resilience in uncertain times!

The hosts energize the live audience with humorous pre-show antics. A co-founder's return to the startup scene sparks discussions on failed ventures and the challenges of user engagement. The importance of reputation and humility takes center stage amidst tighter financial constraints. They also tackle the emotional fallout from recent tech layoffs, emphasizing transparency. Finally, preparations for an upcoming tech conference highlight the excitement and community spirit within the startup ecosystem.