This Week in Startups

Molly and Jason share exciting highlights from the All-In Summit, featuring lively debates and personal anecdotes on technology's evolving landscape. They discuss Argo AI's launch of autonomous test cars in Miami and Austin, marking a significant step in driverless technology. The conversation then shifts to Amazon's decision to sublease over 10 million square feet of warehouse space, exploring its potential economic implications. The dynamic mix of networking and open dialogue underscores the importance of connection in the tech community.

Fleur Heyns, Founder and CEO of Proof of Impact, discusses her journey from investment banking to championing ESG metrics. She highlights the challenges of measuring environmental impact and the transformative role of innovative data solutions. Fleur explains how blockchain can verify these metrics and the significance of transparent data for attracting responsible investors. The conversation also touches on the evolving regulatory landscape and its potential effects on sustainability practices in business.

Alex Fielding, CEO and Co-founder of Privateer Space, shares insights on tackling the pressing issue of space junk. He discusses the daunting challenges of mapping debris in orbit and the innovative solutions his company is exploring. Fielding highlights the potential risks of collisions, comparing space debris to high-speed bullets, and emphasizes the need for collaborative efforts within the space industry. He also reflects on his journey, including his work alongside tech visionary Steve Wozniak, shedding light on the future of space sustainability.

Melissa Hanna, CEO and Co-founder of Mahmee, shares her journey in revolutionizing maternal healthcare. She discusses how the pandemic highlighted the urgent need for better support systems and the bittersweet challenges of bringing her vision to life. With a focus on health equity, she reveals how Mahmee secured $9.2 million in funding to enhance patient care. The conversation dives into innovations like virtual nursing support and the importance of unified health records while addressing systemic inequities faced by women in healthcare.

Carolyn Childers, CEO and co-founder of Chief, shares insights on her mission to empower women in leadership roles. The conversation delves into building a thriving women’s executive network that emphasizes genuine connections and support. Carolyn discusses the impressive $100 million Series B funding and how Chief plans to enhance member experiences with technology and community spaces. She also addresses the unique challenges women face in the corporate world and how word-of-mouth marketing has driven their growth.

Jack Mallers, CEO of Strike, is on a mission to revolutionize Bitcoin payments using the Lightning Network. He discusses the history and evolution of payment networks, emphasizing why traditional giants like Visa and Mastercard struggle to compete. Mallers explains the benefits of Strike’s API for businesses and how it can unlock Bitcoin's true potential. He also tackles misconceptions about Bitcoin transactions, highlighting their efficiency and the technology's capability to enable instant payments, paving the way for a more inclusive financial landscape.

Join Jason Lemkin, founder of SaaStr and a SaaS investment expert, as he shares invaluable insights on surviving and thriving in a downturn. He offers essential advice for new VCs, focusing on how to assess quality revenue and avoid common pitfalls. The conversation dives into the future of SaaS investments and the importance of playing offense, even in tough times. Jason also touches on the dynamics of valuations and the significance of profitability, shedding light on opportunities and challenges in the evolving SaaS landscape.

In this engaging discussion, Anukampa Freedom Gupta-Fonner, the visionary founder and CEO of SpringEats.com, shares her journey in creating a zero-waste grocery delivery service. She emphasizes the urgent need for sustainable grocery practices, advocating for reusable packaging and local sourcing to combat plastic waste. The conversation also highlights the rise of women in venture capital and the evolving landscape of funding, showcasing how diverse fund managers are gaining traction. Gupta-Fonner's insights reveal both the challenges and innovative solutions in revolutionizing grocery shopping.

Nicole Ruiz, an investor at Compound VC, shares her untraditional journey into venture capital, highlighting the importance of research-driven investment. She discusses the recent trends in healthcare technology and the strategic investment in Pear Bio, a company tackling cancer progression. The conversation dives into the emotional resilience required after financial setbacks and the evolving landscape of venture capital, particularly how younger investors are reshaping the field with diverse backgrounds.

Deirdre Bosa, CNBC's tech correspondent known for her sharp insights, discusses a myriad of topics, including her revealing interview with Sundar Pichai. She delves into the chaos of crashing public markets and the unsettling state of cryptocurrency, asking if we are witnessing a 'go-to-zero' moment. Bosa also explores the delicate dance of journalism in tech, particularly the double standards for women. Additionally, she tackles the censorship challenges in major platforms like YouTube, spotlighting the evolving landscape of journalism in the digital age.