Equity

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.

Excitement is in the air as a major San Francisco tech event approaches, with hosts buzzing about live interactions. Stocks are looking up, particularly in software, while the crypto landscape remains stagnant. Controversy stirs as Kanye West acquires social network Parler amidst minimal popularity and fierce competition. Investment spotlight shines on Ambi Robotics, which secured substantial funding, while Byju's also draws attention despite facing layoffs. Regulatory shifts are shaking up the Chinese semiconductor sector, raising questions for American workers.

Discover the intersection of luxury and shared ownership with the innovative co-ownership model for vacation homes. Dive into the latest acquisition in HR tech, as The Muse expands its reach by buying Fairygodboss, sparking discussions on the future of startup roll-ups. Explore the evolving landscape of venture capital, where Q3 funding trends reveal regional shifts and emerging investment practices. Plus, hear about the personal challenges and excitement surrounding an upcoming live event in San Francisco.

Sarah Guo, founder of Conviction and a former Greylock partner, talks about her new $101 million fund targeting software and AI investments. She explains her departure from Greylock and the evolving venture capital landscape, emphasizing trust between investors and founders. The conversation dives into AI's real-world applications and the skepticism around its hype, while addressing the pressing need for capital efficiency in startups. Guo also shares insights on navigating seed-stage investments and the importance of understanding market dynamics.

Global markets are feeling the pinch, but XRP is breaking the mold in the crypto space. Exciting developments arise from Clerkenwell Health, delving into alternative mental health treatments. E-commerce shines as Trendsi secures $25 million to enhance visibility. Meanwhile, Kanye West's social media antics keep him in the headlines, while Tizen surprises by making gains in the smart TV market. PayPal faces challenges amid misinformation in the crypto world. Tune in for more insights and energetic discussions!