This Week in Startups

In this engaging discussion, Jack Raines, a writer for Liquidity's Exec Sum newsletter and Young Money blog, joins to share insights on navigating the challenges of financial writing. The hosts explore OpenAI's ChatGPT, testing its capabilities for holiday planning and creative projects. They also tackle the implications of media layoffs and the closure of Future.com, while Jack adds his own twist on the ongoing generational dialogue in the 'OK Boomer' segment, filled with humor and contemporary reflections.

Lon Harris, a streaming media expert, delves into Disney's groundbreaking AI-based de-aging technology and its implications for Hollywood. Meanwhile, Sam Bankman-Fried, the controversial former CEO of FTX, has his recent media appearances scrutinized for their questionable messaging and nervous demeanor. The discussion covers the responsibilities of venture capital in light of the FTX scandal and critiques media accountability in interviewing powerful figures. It's a thrilling mix of technology and ethics in the contemporary landscape.

Matanya Horowitz, founder and CEO of AMP Robotics, discusses the revolutionary impact of robotics in recycling and waste management. With a background in robotics and deep learning, he explains how AI-powered robots enhance efficiency and improve material sorting. They also dive into the environmental importance of these innovations, addressing the challenges of deploying robots effectively. The conversation touches on the balance between economic viability and technological advancement, underscoring the need for sustainable solutions in the recycling industry.

The hosts dive into the high-profile clash between Twitter and Apple, exploring the challenges posed by the app store duopoly. They discuss Google's staggering employee distribution and how efficient platforms like YouTube are shaping the tech landscape. Snap's return to office policy signals a shift in workplace dynamics, while crypto chaos unfolds with BlockFi's bankruptcy causing ripples in the industry. Expect insights into the evolving app market and the implications of big tech's influence on startup growth!

Scott Orn, the COO of Kruze, shares his extensive expertise in startup finance and accounting. He dives into the current state of the startup market, emphasizing the need for smart budgeting strategies, especially for Seed stage startups. Scott stresses the importance of clear communication with investors, advocating a proactive approach. He also discusses effective financial modeling techniques and the necessity of aligning business goals with funding milestones to attract venture capital, providing valuable insights for navigating challenging economic conditions.

TechCrunch's Alex Wilhelm joins to break down the news! First up, the trio covers Pipe's Co-Founders abruptly stepping down (7:06) and the lessons learned. (26:29) Then, they discuss Apple's China-based iOS update impacting AirDrop (40:31) before Alex leaves. J+M finish the show with more thoughts on China and react to Black Friday's ATH sales volume and the BNPL boom. (1:11:01) (0:00) J+M tee up today's topics and special news guest! (2:21) J+M catch up on their Thanksgiving breaks with TechCrunch's Alex Wilhelm! (7:06) Intense velocity of notable tech stories, teeing up the Pipe situation (12:05) LinkedIn Marketing -  Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at https://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups (13:34) Breaking down the Pipe Co-Founders abruptly stepping down (25:02) Supergut - Get 30% off with code TWIST at https://supergut.com  (26:29) Pipe's expansion into media and crypto, lessons learned from the "speculative asset bubble" (37:21) Fitbod - Get 25% off at https://fitbod.me/twist  (38:39) Alex on running a subscription-based media business within an ad-based media business (40:31) Protests in China, Apple's recent China-specific iOS update, which impacting AirDrop (59:59) J+M wrap with thoughts on China after Alex departs (1:11:01) Black Friday spending hits an all-time high, BNPL sees huge bump y/y FOLLOW Alex: https://twitter.com/alex FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood Subscribe to our YouTube to watch all full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkkhmBWfS7pILYIk0izkc3A?sub_confirmation=1

On VC Sunday School, Jason and Molly discuss how VCs size their investments (1:40). Then, Molly is joined by Ben Birnbaum of Keyframe and TeraWatt! (13:17) (0:00) Molly tees up today's topics! (1:40) Jason breaks down how VCs think about bet sizing! (11:43) OpenPhone - Get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://openphone.com/twist  (13:17) Molly welcomes Ben Birnbaum of TeraWatt and Keyframe to discuss his background and why he started TeraWatt! (27:07) Odoo - Get access to all of Odoo's apps, services, and maintenance for under $25 at https://odoo.com/twist  (28:15) Ben explains the current state of commercial EVs and TeraWatt's progress (34:05) How TeraWatt spawned Keyframe, where Ben is an investment partner (38:20) House of Macadamias - Get 20% off at https://houseofmacadamias.com/twist by using code TWIST20 (39:47) Ben explains how and why he started an investment firm to fund his own startup (and startups like it!) Check out TeraWatt: https://terawattinfrastructure.com Check out Keyframe: https://www.keyframecapital.com FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood Subscribe to our YouTube to watch all full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkkhmBWfS7pILYIk0izkc3A?sub_confirmation=1

Sunny Madra, a cryptocurrency expert, dives into the fallout from the FTX collapse, highlighting its significant impact on the crypto landscape. He discusses the necessity of a data-driven approach for startups navigating this turbulence. The conversation also touches on broader topics like Zoom's recent earnings struggles and Amazon's staggering $10 billion loss with Alexa. Additionally, innovative solutions in affordable housing and the challenges of subscription services are explored, providing a comprehensive look at current tech trends.

Lon Harris, a streaming expert, joins the discussion on Bob Iger's surprising return as Disney CEO after Bob Chapek's controversial leadership. They dissect Chapek's missteps and how Iger's emotional intelligence may steer the company back on track. The conversation also touches on Iger's leadership style, potential strategies to revitalize Disney, and a broader commentary on accountability in corporate governance. With wit and insight, they explore the dynamics of change in the entertainment landscape.

Dan Meyers, the CEO of Flair, shares insights on creating smart vents and thermostats aimed at improving energy efficiency. He discusses the innovative technology behind Flair’s products and their role in optimizing home climate control while being eco-friendly. The conversation also explores the impact of current economic conditions on venture capital and the challenges faced by founders in maintaining support from investors. Meyers emphasizes the need for resilient business strategies in climate tech as consumers shift towards sustainability.