This Week in Startups

Michael Shellenberger, an independent candidate for California Governor, shares his vision for tackling homelessness and addiction while emphasizing the need for systemic change in the state. The discussion also covers Apple's latest tech innovations presented at the WWDC, and the alarming $2.35 billion laundered through Binance highlighting issues in the cryptocurrency landscape. Additionally, Shellenberger critiques political obstacles affecting housing development, advocating for fresh approaches to address California's pressing challenges.

Sam Teicher, co-founder and chief reef officer of Coral Vita, shares insights on innovative coral regeneration strategies in response to climate change. He highlights the urgency of reef restoration efforts and the creation of a restoration economy through coral farming. The discussion also touches on the intricate link between flourishing coral ecosystems, tourism, and economic stability, emphasizing sustainable business models to finance these efforts. Teicher's passion for coral health encourages listeners to engage in climate action and explore collaborative solutions.

Mehak Vohra, Founder and CEO of Skillbank, shares her insights on navigating the job market during tough economic times. She discusses the growing trend of job offer rescinds at companies like Coinbase and Loom, urging proactive self-assessment for job seekers. Vohra emphasizes the significance of structured learning and community support in upskilling for marketing careers. Additionally, she reflects on her journey from college dropout to bootcamp creator, advocating for accessible pathways into tech, especially for women.

Lon Harris, a streaming media expert, joins to discuss the latest on Obi-Wan Kenobi, diving into the nuances of character development, particularly the evolution of young Leia and the chilling portrayal of Darth Vader. The conversation also touches on Disney's response to racism and critiques of the Star Wars sequels, exploring how fan backlash has shaped storytelling. In a broader context, they analyze the impact of high-profile media trials, like Depp v. Heard, on public discourse and entertainment narratives.

Tom Walker, CEO of DroneUp, shares insights on the company's partnership with Walmart to revolutionize drone delivery. He addresses the complex regulatory landscape and the paramount importance of safety in this innovative sector. The discussion also dives into the impact of Deutsche Bank's greenwashing scandal, Fidelity's markdown of investments, and the ongoing debate around remote work productivity as companies reconsider in-office requirements.

David Rosenthal, co-host of Acquired FM, dives into the changing landscape of fundraising as we enter a 'VC Winter.' He discusses the New York Times' critical piece on Glossier's CEO Emily Weiss, exploring the media's portrayal of female entrepreneurs. The conversation also highlights Mike Cannon-Brookes' ambitious efforts to tackle Australia's largest polluter. With insights on navigating today’s market dynamics, this episode offers a blend of industry analysis and commentary on social responsibility in the tech space.

Jordan Singer, founder of Diagram, dives into the evolving realm of AI product design tools within Figma. He shares insights on the impact of automation and innovative design systems, blending creativity with technology. The discussion touches on the importance of user involvement in design processes and the balance between artistic expression and AI capabilities. They also explore the implications of intellectual property in the NFT landscape, using notable thefts to illustrate the complexities of ownership in the digital age.

Andy Dunn, the founder of Bonobos and author of "Burn Rate," shares his candid journey with bipolar disorder, revealing its profound impact on his entrepreneurial path. He highlights that founders are significantly more likely to face mental health struggles. Dunn discusses the challenges he faced during his Walmart acquisition while managing his condition and emphasizes the need for open conversations about mental health in the startup world. He also offers advice on navigating these issues, advocating for greater support and understanding within the entrepreneurial community.

The podcast kicks off with a heart-wrenching discussion on a recent school shooting and gun violence crisis in America. Experts ponder the role of technology in preventing child fatalities and explore innovative safety measures. The spotlight then shifts to the mental health startup Cerebral, facing scrutiny from the DOJ over its prescription practices. In breaking news, Jack Dorsey steps down from Twitter's board, prompting reflections on corporate leadership dynamics in the tech world. It's a captivating blend of urgent societal issues and industry insights.

Snap's shares plummet by 40% after grim earnings forecasts, raising alarm bells in the tech world. Layoffs at Gorillas and Klarna signal tough times for instant-delivery and buy now, pay later sectors. Meanwhile, Adam and Rebekah Neumann launch a blockchain-based carbon credits startup called Flowcarbon, aiming to innovate in sustainability. Coinbase experiments with a new feedback system inspired by Ray Dalio, igniting discussions on workplace culture and performance ratings. Tune in for insights on navigating economic turbulence!