This Week in Startups

Luke Young, CEO of Alora, joins the discussion to explore the cutting-edge world of ocean farming. He shares how his startup is engineering salt-tolerant crops and overcoming the challenges of growing food in salty seas. The conversation covers breakthroughs in crop resilience and the exciting first taste of innovative salt-resistant rice. Luke emphasizes the need for sustainable agricultural practices to combat global hunger, highlighting the transformative potential of ocean farming and the promise it holds for future food security.

The chaos following the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank shakes the startup landscape, prompting urgent discussions on financial strategies for founders. Discover insights on how to prevent future banking crises and the importance of diversified financial practices. Meanwhile, delve into groundbreaking technology with Wist Labs’ CEO, exploring how augmented reality can capture and relive life's most cherished memories. The conversation also touches on the role of generative AI in enhancing personal storytelling and what it means for tech startups today.

The podcast dives into the shocking collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and its repercussions for startups and venture capitalists. It analyzes the FDIC's emergency response and what this means for founders navigating financial chaos. Experts weigh in on the implications for fundraising and the risk of contagion in the startup ecosystem. The discussion highlights the urgency for emergency funding, along with advice on how founders can approach this crisis. Overall, there's an emphasis on the interconnectedness of the financial landscape and how it shapes the future of innovation.

Eric Newcomer, an independent journalist formerly with Bloomberg and The Information, dives into the key tech happenings. He reveals Stripe's ambitious $6B fundraising amid challenges. The conversation explores Silicon Valley Bank's shocking 60% drop and its implications for startups. They dissect the burgeoning generative AI funding landscape and its impact on workforce dynamics, reflecting on layoffs and evolving company cultures in the tech sector. Newcomer also addresses the challenges of independent journalism and funding in today's digital media environment.

Joining the discussion is Zach Coelius, a serial entrepreneur and angel investor at Coleus Capital. He shares key insights on the shift to virtual investing post-COVID and how it has transformed investor relations. Zach highlights crucial red flags in potential startup deals and emphasizes the importance of building genuine relationships before fundraising. He also discusses negotiation tactics and the evolving landscape of startup funding, making this a must-listen for founders and investors alike.

Emily Melton, co-founder and managing partner at Threshold VC, shares her insights from her venture capital journey, including her time at DFJ. She discusses the barriers healthcare presents for entrepreneurs and emphasizes the need for innovative solutions in that space. The conversation also highlights the importance of building a diverse culture within venture capital, especially for supporting women founders. Melton offers strategies for navigating market distortions and optimizing investments in challenging economic times.

Kiran Bhatraju, CEO and co-founder of Arcadia, a climate technology company, dives into the crucial intersection of clean energy and data. He explores the resurfacing of the Crypto-Asset Environmental Transparency Act, emphasizing the pressing need for accountability in crypto emissions. Kiran reveals how Arcadia unlocks energy data to revolutionize clean energy access and discusses community solar as a game-changer for those without rooftop options. His insights on carbon accounting and using innovative tech to optimize energy efficiency are thought-provoking!

Sequoia's recent exit from Citizen's board raises eyebrows over investment ethics and the upcoming IPO market. With Instacart and ARM preparing to go public, the conversation turns to the dynamics of startup funding. Meanwhile, chaos brews at Dapper Labs as it faces financial scrutiny and legal challenges, shedding light on corporate spending in turbulent times. The podcast also navigates the implications of digital advertising and the urgent need for domestic semiconductor manufacturing amidst geopolitical tensions.

In this engaging discussion, Dylan McDonnell, founder of Foodini, shares his journey from a celiac diagnosis to creating an app that helps those with dietary restrictions find safe dining options. He highlights the essential role of accurate information for users and the potential market for food-related services. Meanwhile, Michael Tan delves into the ethical complexities of AI in his sci-fi novel, "The Death of Uncertainty," exploring the tension between choice and free will in an AI-driven world. Both guests provide intriguing insights into technology's impact on our lives.

Frank Slootman, CEO of Snowflake and known for his prowess in leading hyper-growth companies, shares insights about navigating the fast-paced tech landscape. He discusses the importance of measuring organizational impact and fostering a win-first culture. Slootman highlights his unique hiring philosophy, emphasizing enthusiasm and strong relationships between executives and their teams. Additionally, he addresses managing burnout and creating a secure work environment, offering valuable strategies for maintaining focus amidst industry challenges.