Equity

Ali Kashani, Co-founder and CEO of Serve Robotics, shares his journey from lidar-focused startup to a publicly traded delivery service. He reveals how Serve's sidewalk bots gather four times more visual data daily than top AI models. The conversation explores scaling delivery fleets in cities like L.A. and Miami, along with the innovative partnership between ground robots and drones aimed at improving last-mile logistics. Kashani also addresses data privacy challenges that come with autonomous technology, balancing public safety and ethical responsibilities.

This week, a billion-dollar acquisition by Databricks of Neon sparks discussions about the evolving value of money. Chime's upcoming IPO raises eyebrows with intriguing gaps in its S-1 filing. Meanwhile, AWS forges a strategic partnership that could reshape cloud infrastructure amid rising AI ambitions in the Middle East. Nostalgia makes a comeback as web series gain traction, blending personal storytelling with short-form content. The conversation highlights the ever-changing landscape of tech, finance, and digital connection.

Charles Rollet, a senior reporter for TechCrunch, dives into the dramatic legal tussle between HR tech giants Rippling and Deel. He reveals the wild allegations of corporate espionage, complete with secret payments and hidden channels. The conversation touches on Rippling's significant $450 million funding boost amid the chaos, and Y Combinator's surprising support for Rippling's latest venture. They also discuss the potential fallout for IPO plans and the ethics at play in this high-stakes corporate showdown.

Mark Zuckerberg unveils a game-changing AI ad engine that could replace traditional advertising roles, raising concerns about the future of marketing. The hosts discuss Google's Gemini 2.5 Pro's unexpected triumph over Pokémon Blue and the intriguing concept of gamifying AI challenges. A countertop robot that aids in cooking is introduced, along with Uber's ongoing advancements in autonomous vehicles. Additionally, a new venture focused on age-reversing treatments showcases AI's role in health innovation, igniting debates on privacy and creativity.

Eric Slesinger, founder of 201 Ventures and former CIA officer, shares his intriguing transition from the intelligence community to venture capital. He highlights the growing interest in European defense tech, driven by recent geopolitical events. Slesinger discusses overcoming the stigma around defense investments in Europe and reveals how his firm aims to support underrepresented founders. The conversation also covers innovative projects like maritime drones and the exploration of emerging technologies in competitive gray zones.

A controversial AI startup called Cluely is raising eyebrows by claiming it can help users cheat their way through job interviews and exams. This bold move has sparked backlash from competitors striving to uphold integrity. Privacy concerns are also on the rise, especially with Sam Altman's latest event featuring eyeball scans. Meanwhile, Shein's IPO faces challenges due to looming tariffs, and Waymo is teaming up with Toyota to innovate in autonomous tech. Tune in for a lively discussion on these pressing issues shaping the future of work!

Jared Carmel, the founder of Manhattan Venture Partners and a veteran in the secondary market since 2009, discusses the transformative rise of retail investors in secondary markets. He highlights how platforms like EquityZen are democratizing access to private shares, raising questions about risk versus opportunity. Carmel believes this shift is a 'once-in-a-generation opportunity' that could delay IPOs, serving as a 'pressure relief valve' for startups. He also examines how this changing landscape creates a flywheel effect for venture capital.

This discussion covers Google and Meta's ongoing antitrust battles, questioning if true monopolies are being dismantled or simply swapped. Tesla faces a staggering 71% profit drop, yet Elon Musk remains bullish on its future. A spotlight shines on Mati Carbon's innovative carbon capture solution, earning accolades at a major competition. The podcast also dives into the competitive landscape of AI, revealing how small startups are grappling with industry giants and the concentration of funding toward a select few companies.

Sean West, co-founder of Hence.ai and author of 'Unruly,' shares insights on navigating today's chaotic business landscape shaped by tariffs and political turmoil. He discusses how companies can proactively adapt to rising geopolitical risks and the importance of corporate diplomacy. West emphasizes the complex interplay between patriotism and business strategy, revealing the evolving role of AI-driven tools in democratizing high-level business intelligence. Tune in for expert advice on thriving amidst uncertainty!

The discussion kicks off with the intriguing idea of AI-generated voices of famous figures like Elon Musk directing traffic in Silicon Valley. The spotlight then shifts to the resurgence of SPACs, especially in the autonomous vehicle sector. Exciting updates on AI developments, including the anticipated arrival of GPT-5, keep the conversation buzzing. The team also dissects Figma's IPO journey amid market uncertainties and reflects on how AI is reshaping the design landscape and consumer robotics. It's a blend of tech, humor, and market insights!