This Week in Startups

Garry Tan's return as CEO of Y Combinator sparks discussions on its potential to reshape the startup ecosystem. Apple hints at groundbreaking AR goggles with recent trademark filings, raising excitement in tech circles. Meanwhile, Eminem and Snoop Dogg's performance as Bored Apes at the VMAs showcases the intersection of pop culture and NFTs, bringing both applause and critique. The conversation dives into the broader implications of these events on investment strategies and the future of digital art.

Carlos Araque, Co-founder and CEO of Quaise Energy, is pioneering geothermal drilling technology to tap into deep energy resources. He shares insights about the massive potential of geothermal energy as a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. The conversation also touches on his company’s recent $50 million Series A funding, the innovative millimeter wave drilling technique, and the challenges of transitioning from fossil fuels. Araque's vision highlights how climate technology can reshape the energy landscape amidst global environmental concerns.

Pete Oxenham, the Founder of Chatter.dev, joins to share insights about his SaaS platform that enhances factory machine efficiency through data analysis. The discussion also dives into Twitter's new podcasting features, exploring how they aim to increase user engagement and reshape the podcasting landscape. Additionally, Danny Miranda engages in a light-hearted 'OK Boomer' segment, sharing his journey into podcasting and the importance of personal growth through introspection. Tune in for a blend of tech innovation and entertaining commentary!

Lon Harris, a streaming media expert, joins the conversation to dissect HBO's blockbuster 'House of the Dragon,' which set viewership records. He also discusses the anticipated return of MoviePass and its potential impact on the movie experience. The hosts explore Peloton's grim financial outlook, contrasting it with Snowflake's soaring success. They delve into the streaming landscape, touching on the rise of new shows and the changing dynamics of popular franchises, making for a lively discussion on media trends.

Dive into the heated debate surrounding student loan forgiveness and its impact on society. The conversation takes a turn as Zuck faces criticism for copying the app BeReal, raising concerns about ethical practices in tech. Unravel the shocking revelations from a Twitter whistleblower regarding security negligence and misleading information. The podcast also highlights a promising climate startup's Series A funding. Lastly, explore the enduring question: Is investing in a college degree still worth it in today's economy?

Sunny Madra, co-founder of Definitive Intelligence, and Vinny Lingham, co-founder of Civic, join the roundtable to tackle some pivotal crypto topics. They dive into Martin Shkreli's controversial new Web3 project aimed at democratizing drug discovery. The discussion shifts to the Ethereum merge, examining its potential impact on transaction costs and market dynamics. Gensler's regulatory stance on DeFi protocols stirs up ethical debates, while innovative projects like Helium and Filecoin are highlighted for their decentralization efforts.

Arjun Shokeen, Founder and CEO of Swayed, dives into how his startup is revolutionizing customer journeys in hospitality by leveraging data for personalized guest experiences. He discusses the importance of innovating service offerings and streamlining operations, especially in a post-pandemic world. The conversation also touches on how technology can enhance satisfaction and revenue growth in hospitality. Additionally, insights on FTX's financial leaks and Amazon's healthcare ambitions make for a thought-provoking discussion on the shifting landscapes of various industries.

Joanne Rodriguez, Founder and CEO of MycoCycle, shares her groundbreaking work using mushrooms for environmental remediation. She discusses how her company transforms construction waste into new materials through innovative fungi-based processes. The conversation touches on the challenges of securing venture capital for startups in novel markets and highlights the importance of sustainability in waste management. Rodriguez also provides insights into her vision for a future where mycelium plays a crucial role in creating eco-friendly solutions.

Zeb Anderson, Co-founder and CEO of LegalQ, shares his insights on revolutionizing legal consultations to make legal advice more accessible. He discusses how his startup connects clients with attorneys, addressing lead generation challenges in the legal field. Meanwhile, digital culture commentator Jules Terpak highlights the importance of curiosity in brand building and explores the complexities of TikTok and generational perceptions of online privacy. Together, they unravel the intertwined issues of innovation, youth culture, and digital landscapes.

Lon Harris, a streaming expert and writer of the Inside Streaming newsletter, joins the conversation to unpack the latest chaos at HBO Max and its significant layoffs. He discusses Apple's new feature in news audio stories while delving into the company's controversial shift toward an ads business that may compromise user privacy. They also analyze how Warner Bros. Discovery's looming content cuts impact creators and the streaming landscape, and the surprising shift of streaming overtaking cable viewership.