
This Week in Startups
Jason Calacanis covers startups, tech, markets, media, and all the hottest topics in business and technology. He also interviews the world’s greatest founders, operators, investors, and innovators.
Latest episodes

Oct 14, 2020 • 1h 24min
E1124: Reducing response times for first responders & revolutionizing outdated systems with RapidDeploy CEO Steven Raucher | Rising Stars of SaaS 1
Steven Raucher, Co-founder and CEO of RapidDeploy, dives into how his company is revolutionizing emergency response systems. He shares insights on the evolution from outdated methods to modern tech like live video feeds for first responders. Raucher reflects on his journey from investment banking to impactful public safety initiatives and discusses the importance of innovative pricing strategies for 911 centers. Exploring the challenges of integrating new technologies into existing infrastructures, he emphasizes the mission-driven approach to enhancing real-time communication and response efficiency.

Oct 14, 2020 • 22min
E1123: Emergency Pod! Jason reacts to the iPhone 12 fail & Apple jumping the shark; theories on the lack of innovation: is something big in the works or has Apple lost its magic?
Disappointment is palpable as the speaker critiques the iPhone 12 launch, labeling it the 'worst iPhone ever.' They explore concerns over Apple's innovation and environmental claims, questioning whether the tech giant has lost its magic. There's an intriguing analysis of missing accessories and what that means for the future. The discussion also digs into Apple’s streaming strategy, emphasizing the need for bolder moves in a rapidly evolving market. Is something groundbreaking in the works, or is it all just a mirage?

Oct 13, 2020 • 1h 9min
E1122: Running Tide CEO Marty Odlin is helping solve the Climate crisis by using kelp to sequester carbon in the ocean, shares insights on generational shifts in climate response & more
Marty Odlin, CEO and co-founder of Running Tide, is revolutionizing climate action by harnessing kelp for carbon sequestration. He discusses the critical role of oceanic systems in sustainability and nutrition while addressing the alarming impacts of climate change on marine environments. Odlin highlights innovative practices in aquaculture, the shift towards sustainable consumer behavior, and the urgent need for collaborative solutions to achieve carbon neutrality. He emphasizes the power of individual initiatives and the importance of generational perspectives in tackling these pressing issues.

Oct 10, 2020 • 27min
Best of This Week in Startups: Week of October 5th, 2020
George Arison, founder of Shift and pioneer of ride-sharing through Taxi Magic, discusses the evolution of transportation startups and the challenges of navigating public markets versus private funding. Mark Suster, a venture capitalist known for sustainable investing, shares insights on long-term ecological solutions, including innovative startups tackling the water crisis and food waste. They also dissect the SPAC trend and its implications for the tech industry, offering a compelling look at the future of investment in startups.

Oct 9, 2020 • 1h 33min
E1121: Mark Suster on investing in human-computer interfaces & sustainability, what he looks for in founders, SPACs impact on early-stage investing & more
Mark Suster, a venture capitalist known for his insights on investing, dives deep into the world of human-computer interfaces and sustainability. He discusses the transformative potential of smart technology in healthcare and security, emphasizing innovations like advanced monitoring for children and health tech for elder care. Suster also critiques the impact of SPACs on early-stage investing, and he explores the urgent need for sustainable practices in agriculture, showcasing unique strategies to address water crises and promote eco-friendly solutions.

Oct 7, 2020 • 56min
E1120: Shift Co-CEO George Arison on going public via SPAC, lessons from building Uber’s predecessor & innovating in the massive used car market
George Arison, Co-CEO of Shift and founder of Taxi Magic, shares insights from his entrepreneurial journey in the tech and transportation sectors. He discusses pioneering taxi booking technology before Uber and the evolution of the ride-sharing market. The conversation shifts to innovations in the used car market, examining safety concerns and customer experience improvements. Arison elaborates on the economics of car buying, highlighting the advantages of going public via SPAC and the challenges of navigating investor dynamics.

Oct 3, 2020 • 19min
Best of This Week in Startups: Week of September 28th, 2020
Discover a unique van rental service designed for outdoor enthusiasts, complete with essential amenities. Explore how live video streaming is reshaping police accountability during emergencies. Dive into a revolutionary search engine device that responds to voice commands and a wearable tech offering hand-projected interfaces. Plus, learn about the rise of micro schools and how they empower educators while simplifying the search for parents. Get ready for innovative insights that challenge the norm!

Oct 3, 2020 • 37min
All-In E9: Trump has COVID, First debate reactions, Coinbase letter response & more
The hosts dive into the surprising news of the president contracting COVID-19, discussing potential health implications and political fallout. They explore the blurring lines between Republican and Democratic policies, while analyzing the audience's divided reactions to a recent presidential debate. The conversation also touches on the Democratic Party's candidate strategy and how President Biden navigates governance amid party tensions. Additionally, they examine how a political figure's health can impact economic stability and the upcoming election landscape.

Oct 2, 2020 • 55min
E1119: Wonderschool CEO Chris Bennett is creating a marketplace for early childhood education & microschools, giving teachers greater access to entrepreneurship & iterating in education
Chris Bennett, CEO and co-founder of Wonderschool, dives into the evolving landscape of early childhood education and microschools. He discusses how the pandemic has sparked demand for alternative schooling options and addresses challenges educators face in managing childcare businesses. The conversation highlights the rise of micro schools, their collaborative nature, and the potential for entrepreneurship within the education sector. Bennett also shares insights into outdoor education and the innovative changes brought about by COVID-19.

Oct 1, 2020 • 34min
E1118: Emergency Pod! Two former Apple executives are building the iPhone killer – breaking down the leaks, patents & scoops regarding Humane’s product
Two former Apple executives are on a mission to create an iPhone rival with their innovative startup. The conversation dives into their revolutionary wearable device, which features gesture control and multimedia capture, predicting a future of augmented reality. They also critique the tech vision of Humane, exploring its bold ambitions and potential pitfalls. The device's capability to project interfaces onto hands raises intriguing questions about privacy and social acceptance. The hosts analyze its impact on personal technology and user interaction.