This Week in Startups

Brewster Kahle, a digital librarian and founder of the Internet Archive, discusses his groundbreaking work in creating the Wayback Machine. He emphasizes the importance of preserving digital content amid copyright challenges, advocating for universal access to information. Kahle highlights the nostalgia of classic video games and the impact of the app revolution on ephemeral content. He also explores innovative approaches to education through microschools and the potential of experimentation in driving social change, all while stressing the role of libraries in cultural preservation.

John Hayes, CEO and co-founder of Ghost Locomotion, is at the forefront of bringing self-driving kits to consumer vehicles. He discusses the critical debate between cameras and LiDAR for detection, the challenges of retrofitting various car models, and the impact of 5G on autonomous driving. Hayes also highlights the environmental hurdles that self-driving tech faces, like fog and humidity, and the significance of developing intuitive algorithms for safety. His insights shed light on the industry's journey toward safer, smarter roads.

Discover the innovative concept of Remote Demo Day, aimed at connecting startups with angel investors. Learn how founders can apply for a chance to showcase their ideas and secure funding. The conversation emphasizes the importance of such initiatives in today's startup landscape. Get insights on the application process and explore how participation can open doors for emerging businesses. This initiative promises to empower entrepreneurs in their quest for investment.

Katerina Schneider, the CEO of Ritual, a transparency-focused vitamin company, shares her journey from skepticism to belief in the value of vitamins. She discusses the impact of the pandemic on health perceptions and her brand's unique story, including the significance of acquiring 'ritual.com.' Katerina also highlights the challenges of fundraising as a pregnant founder and the balance of motherhood with entrepreneurship. She emphasizes innovative marketing strategies and the DTC model's role in creating effective customer experiences in a crowded market.

The podcast dives deep into the world of SPACs, unraveling their rise and the impact of influential leaders in the field. It examines how these financial vehicles work, emphasizing the importance of investor trust and strategic partnerships. A fascinating discussion unfolds about innovation at Apple, focusing on the company's distinct culture and the powerful legacy of Steve Jobs. Additionally, the conversation tackles the pressing issue of diversity in corporate leadership, challenging conventional beliefs and spotlighting efforts to foster inclusivity.

Zander Lurie, CEO of SurveyMonkey, shares insights on leading a public company through the disruptive COVID-19 pandemic. He discusses the challenges of remote work and the crucial role of company culture in adapting to change. Lurie emphasizes the importance of inclusivity in corporate culture and the need for diversity in leadership positions. He also explores the evolving skills required of modern CEOs, highlighting social responsibility and the value of human connections as vital to fostering strong team dynamics.

In this engaging discussion, Ben Keighran, CEO of Caffeine.tv and former Apple innovator, dives into the future of live television for younger audiences. He reflects on his tech journey, from coding as a child to revolutionizing app search. Ben shares insights from his Apple days, particularly Steve Jobs' design ethos. The conversation also explores Caffeine's unique interactive live streaming model and the challenges of bridging gaming partnerships. Finally, they tackle the evolving dynamics of remote work and the need for adaptability in tech hiring.

The speakers engage in lively banter about their summer adventures while diving deep into California's pandemic challenges. They tackle the intertwining issues of homelessness and substance addiction, critiquing ineffective policies. Frustrations surrounding San Francisco's governance and the impacts of AB5 on gig workers also surface. The conversation shifts to franchising as a local business model and urgent calls for police reform. They analyze police violence in relation to gun culture, advocating for enhanced accountability and de-escalation tactics.

Ric Fulop, CEO of Desktop Metal, shares his extensive experience in taking companies public, contrasting traditional IPOs with SPACs. He reveals the revolutionary impact of metal 3D printing on industries, discussing its efficiency and design flexibility. Fulop delves into the future of computer-aided design driven by AI, emphasizing sustainability and the transformation of engineering practices. Additionally, he reflects on the emotional journey of navigating the IPO landscape and the rising significance of SPACs in today's financial markets.

Jacob Helberg, a senior advisor at Stanford's Cyber Policy Center and expert on US-China relations, dives into pivotal topics around e-commerce and education in this insightful discussion. He highlights the impact of COVID-19 on traditional retail and online shopping challenges. Helberg also tackles the evolving landscape of education credentials, emphasizing practical skills over degrees. Furthermore, he sheds light on the escalating tensions between the U.S. and China, revealing how digital geopolitical struggles are reshaping global dynamics.