This Week in Startups

The hosts dive into Netflix's challenges with live sports streaming, discussing a notable boxing disappointment during a high-profile fight night. They explore the shifting dynamics in sports broadcasting, including implications for betting and subscription versus ad-based revenue models. The conversation shifts to the new FCC chair's controversial stance on social media regulation and free speech. Finally, they contemplate the potential impact of Emile Michael leading the Department of Transportation, emphasizing the need for business-savvy leadership in government.

Jamin Ball, an investor at Altimeter and former banker, shares his insights on the complex dynamics between VCs and founders. He discusses how overcapitalization can lead to unrealistic growth expectations and misaligned incentives. The conversation touches on the rapid surge in venture capital, the stark contrasts between private and public valuations, and the effect of AI on the startup landscape. Jamin also examines the challenges of IPOs, the importance of choosing effective funding partners, and the current SaaS market conditions.

Phil Deutch, CEO of NGP Energy Tech Partners, shares insights on solar power's explosive growth and its role in meeting energy demands from data centers. He discusses Australia's achievements in renewable energy and the potential for similar success globally. The conversation highlights the shifting perceptions of nuclear power, particularly small modular reactors, and their importance for a sustainable future. Lastly, the discussion touches on the FBI's raid on Polymarket's CEO and its implications for prediction markets and startups.

Nelson Mills, co-founder of VATN Systems, discusses breakthroughs in underwater drone technology designed for both defense and commercial applications. He elaborates on the agility and cost-efficiency of these drones compared to traditional military technologies. The conversation shifts to geopolitical challenges, particularly concerning China's maritime ambitions and the U.S. response. Mills explains the complexities of underwater drone communication and the innovative solutions being developed to enhance their operational capabilities.

Ali Kashani, CEO and co-founder of Serve Robotics, discusses the future of autonomous delivery with Jason and Alex. They delve into the innovative technology behind delivery robots and their partnership with Uber Eats. The conversation shifts to the implications of high-skill immigration policies and their effects on the workforce. They also analyze the stock market's current state, questioning if it is overvalued. The trio shares insights on balancing technology advancements with regulatory challenges in the rapidly evolving delivery industry.

The hosts dive into Apple’s innovative on-device AI and its potential privacy pitfalls. They analyze Reddit’s impressive surge in user engagement and discuss Amazon's major investment interest in AI firm Anthropic. Conversations expand to touch on the critical importance of product velocity for SaaS growth, illustrated through Toast’s success story. The political landscape is also examined, focusing on how economic factors and inflation could sway voter sentiment in upcoming elections.

Adam Bry, CEO and co-founder of Skydio, a leading U.S. drone manufacturer specializing in autonomous technology, joins the conversation. He discusses the pivotal role of drones in enhancing public safety and military applications. Bry explores the implications of geopolitical tensions on drone production and cybersecurity. The talk also covers innovative leasing models for drones, the challenges of hardware startups, and Skydio's mission to innovate despite global competition, highlighting the crucial need for U.S. manufacturing capabilities.

Hannan Parvizian, Co-founder and CEO of Exowatt, shares his insights on the urgent needs for sustainable energy in AI-driven data centers. He explains how traditional energy models are struggling to keep up with skyrocketing power demands from AI technologies. The conversation dives into Exowatt's innovative solutions like the P3 system and XOLED, promising affordable electricity and state-of-the-art energy storage. Parvizian also highlights the role of cutting-edge technologies such as solar lenses and heat-to-electricity conversion in the future of clean energy.

Dive into the fascinating world where AI is reshaping gaming, highlighted by Decart’s innovative video game creation. Explore NVIDIA's booming market presence and Amazon's ambitions in nuclear energy, including the challenges that come with it. Unpack viral growth strategies for startups and the latest trends in AI-driven video production. Plus, get the scoop on Waymo's advancements in self-driving technology, as we examine the intersection of tech innovations and societal impact.

Dr. Chang Liu, Founder and CEO of Extend Robotics, dives into the fascinating world of robotic grape-picking technology. He discusses the challenges of automating agriculture and highlights the synergy between humans and AI for enhanced productivity. Liu also explores teleoperation and network latency, emphasizing the future of automated harvesting. Moreover, he shares insights on building a tech company in the UK and the implications of AI advancements on labor markets and global salary standards. Tune in for an eye-opening discussion on the future of work and technology!