This Week in Startups

Dive into the rise of Aptos, a new blockchain boasting a $1B valuation, and the impressive $450M funding round raised by ConsenSys. Discover Mojo's innovative concept of a stock market-style platform for betting on athletes and the surprising shutdown of Zero Grocery just a month after funding. Explore the evolution of digital currency from Facebook's Libra to current blockchain trends, alongside discussions on startup challenges, diversity in hiring, and the importance of effective communication in business.

Blue Origin has chosen Pete Davidson for a space mission, highlighting the rise of celebrity-driven space tourism. The New York Times launches a Telegram channel to enhance information sharing about the Ukraine conflict. Clearview AI's controversial offer of facial recognition technology to Ukraine raises ethical concerns regarding privacy in wartime. Additionally, the auto industry faces production challenges due to semiconductor shortages, forcing companies to adapt their strategies.

Taj Ahmad Eldridge, Co-founder and GP of Include Ventures, is passionate about climate tech and empowering diverse founders. He shares how his health challenges from pollution inspired his investing journey. The conversation dives into Include Ventures' strategy of funding both directly and through smaller funds. Taj discusses his confidence in hardware investments, highlighting their substantial returns. They also explore how government support can further advance climate tech, merging sustainability with social justice.

Jai Malik, founder of Countdown Capital, dives into hard-tech venture capital focused on American manufacturing and defense. He shares insights on innovative fundraising strategies in hard tech, emphasizing the importance of mission-driven partnerships. The discussion covers Rivian's production issues and the evolving landscape of digital currencies, including Biden's executive order on crypto. Finally, a segment with Josh from Party Round explores unique marketing approaches for startups in today’s social media-driven environment.

Glenn Kelman, CEO and founder of Redfin, shares insights on the fluctuating real estate market and the shift toward a rental economy due to new policies. He discusses sustainable housing price increases and the influence of institutional investors. The conversation highlights the impact of tech workers migrating post-pandemic and how that changes urban and suburban living dynamics. Kelman also poses intriguing questions to the hosts, adding an engaging twist to the discussion.

Kyle Vogt, Co-founder and CEO of Cruise, dives into the world of self-driving technology and autonomous ride-sharing. He discusses the launch of Cruise's driverless service in San Francisco and the innovative zero-emission shared vehicle, the Origin. Kyle shares insights on the future of autonomous vehicles, addressing challenges in safety and adaptation. He highlights the technological advancements needed for smoother rides in various weather conditions and the potential for self-driving cars to significantly reduce traffic fatalities.

Doug Leone, global managing partner of Sequoia Capital, shares insights from four decades in venture capital. He discusses the evolution of venture funding, emphasizing the shift to supporting innovative founders. Leone highlights the impact of secondary share sales on startups and stresses the importance of fairness in equity distribution. He also explores fostering long-term partnerships and mentorship to cultivate the next generation of investors. Additionally, Leone reflects on the significance of adapting to changing landscapes in entrepreneurship and investment strategies.

Mark Nelson, Managing Director of the Radiant Energy Fund, passionately advocates for nuclear power and its potential to address climate change. He discusses why countries like Germany have backed away from nuclear energy, citing historical fears and political dynamics. The conversation also touches on the need for global collaboration to advance nuclear technology and critiques the misconceptions fueling anti-nuclear sentiment. Nelson highlights France's successful nuclear strategies as lessons for the future of energy policy.

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.

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.