
This Week in Startups
Jason Calacanis covers startups, tech, markets, media, and all the hottest topics in business and technology. He also interviews the world’s greatest founders, operators, investors, and innovators.
Latest episodes

Mar 6, 2022 • 58min
How much money is too much? (VC Sunday School) + Climate: Andrew Beebe of Obvious Ventures | E1401
Andrew Beebe, Managing Director at Obvious Ventures, dives into the world of climate tech, sharing his journey from solar to sustainable investments. He discusses the importance of investing in electric mobility and carbon markets, while highlighting how contrarian bets can shape successful careers. Andrew emphasizes the significance of foundational growth for startups and how carbon disclosure will transform industries. He also recommends Kim Stanley Robinson's "The Ministry for the Future" as crucial reading for understanding the climate context.

Mar 4, 2022 • 1h 55min
Google ends WFH, $SNOW earnings + Stillmark's Alyse Killeen Angel S6 E7 + Pallet CEO Kai Han | E1400
Alyse Killeen, General Partner at Stillmark, shares insights on her $30 million fund focused on Bitcoin infrastructure, emphasizing the need for disciplined investment strategies and the evolution of cryptocurrency. Kai Han, Co-founder of Pallet, discusses how his platform connects creators with job opportunities, highlighting community trust in recruitment. The conversation also touches on Google's return-to-office policy and its impact on startups, alongside tech stock dynamics, including Snowflake's earnings and Slack's challenges within Salesforce.

Mar 3, 2022 • 1h 6min
Cana CEO Matt Mahar on launching a "Replicator for beverages," turning a product into a platform, working with The Production Board and more | E1399
Matt Mahar, CEO of Cana, is on a mission to revolutionize how we drink with their groundbreaking molecular beverage printer. Discover how this device allows for personalized drinks, from sugar levels to flavors, while tackling environmental issues like packaging waste. Mahar shares insights into Cana's pricing strategy and innovative product cartridges. Their vision extends beyond just beverages, aiming to create a platform that could redefine the entire bottling industry, making it more sustainable and consumer-friendly.

Mar 3, 2022 • 48min
Apple pauses RU sales, Ford splits-off EVs + How Facebook killed Joe Speiser's $100M business | E1398
Joe Speiser, an investor at Hampton VC and former founder of Little Things, shares his insights on the pitfalls of overreliance on social media platforms like Facebook, which ultimately harmed his media company due to an algorithm change. The discussion also explores Apple's ethical decision to pause sales in Russia and Ford's strategic split of its electric vehicle unit from traditional operations. They wrap up with fascinating advancements in humanoid robotics, highlighting both innovative potential and ethical dilemmas.

Mar 2, 2022 • 2h 22min
Tech takes action against Russia, Backbone's mobile gaming device + Joel Greenblatt from Gotham Capital | E1397
In this discussion, Joel Greenblatt, managing partner at Gotham Asset Management and author celebrated for his value investing strategies, dives into the current stock market landscape and the increasing participation of young investors. He shares insights on finding value in today’s volatile market and tackles the complexities of taxes and loopholes. The conversation also highlights major tech companies’ responses to the Ukraine conflict and introduces Backbone, an innovative startup revolutionizing mobile gaming.

Mar 1, 2022 • 1h 12min
Web 3 is Going Great with Molly White | E1396
Molly White, creator of "Web3 is Going Great," dives deep into the murky waters of the Web3 space. She discusses the role of cryptocurrency in supporting Ukraine amidst conflict, shedding light on both the benefits and challenges. The conversation covers the alarming rise of scams in the crypto world, the misleading hype surrounding Web3, and the toxic dynamics within the community. Molly also critiques Bitcoin's environmental impact and raises questions about the accountability of celebrities in the NFT space.

Feb 27, 2022 • 1h 10min
What investors mean when they are "waiting for a lead" (VC Sunday School) + Seth Bannon of 50 Years | E1395
In this engaging discussion, Seth Bannon, Founding Partner of Fifty Years and expert in deep tech and climate solutions, shares insights about the shifting landscape of venture capital. He explores what it means for investors to wait for a 'lead' and why this dynamic can hinder founder progress. Seth elaborates on how his firm measures the impact of investments and the potential benefits of increased longevity for climate initiatives. He also highlights the intersection of innovation and sustainability, advocating for a more purposeful approach in the VC world.

Feb 26, 2022 • 1h 59min
DHH on Basecamp's painful evolution, Bitcoin, Revitalizing internet discourse + Lumanu CEO Tony Tran | E1394
David Heinemeier Hansson, co-founder of Basecamp, shares insights on the company's tumultuous transition and reflects on the pitfalls of social media discourse. He discusses his evolving views on Bitcoin in light of growing government authority. Tony Tran, CEO of Lumanu, offers a fresh perspective on supporting creators in a changing digital landscape, emphasizing financial empowerment and authentic content. Together, they explore the nuances of workplace culture, the battle against online negativity, and the potential for healthier conversations in today’s society.

Feb 25, 2022 • 1h 3min
Critical cyber attacks of the last decade + How Jason Calacanis grew the Launch Fund: Angel S6 E7 | E1393
Delve into the critical world of cybersecurity, exploring major hacks like Colonial Pipeline and how geopolitical tensions heighten risks. Discover innovative ideas, like hiring skilled 'bounty hackers' to defend against attacks on vital infrastructure. Jason shares his journey in launching the LAUNCH Fund, detailing challenges and successes while reshaping venture capital to match media expertise. Learn about the evolution of angel investing and the strategies that can empower startups in today's complex landscape.

Feb 24, 2022 • 55min
Kanye's genius business model, Platform dependency risks, Pipe enters the movie biz + AirPals' Joshe Ordonez | E1392
Joshe Ordonez, founder and CEO of AirPals, a B2B marketplace for courier services, joins the conversation. They delve into Kanye West's innovative STEM Player, discussing its potential to revolutionize music distribution and reduce reliance on streaming platforms. The risks of platform dependency are highlighted, particularly through a startup's failure after a Facebook algorithm change. Plus, they explore Pipe's intriguing move into the media space, expanding access to non-dilutive capital in the entertainment industry. AirPals’ unique logistics approach also brings fresh perspectives to marketplace dynamics.