This Week in Startups

Join the lively discussion as the hosts dive into the intense Web3 wars igniting on social media, highlighting ownership and decentralization debates. They also unpack Rivian's recent earnings report, dissecting its stock struggles and competition with Tesla. The conversation unveils the evolving landscape of electric vehicles and the implications of social media on climate narratives. With their fresh perspectives, the new co-host brings a vibrant energy to the table, shaping the future of the podcast.

Praying for Exits, a witty and insightful commentator on venture capital, dives into the absurdities of startup culture. They humorously critique the obsession with brand-building among VCs and discuss the entitlement prevalent in tech circles. The conversation covers the importance of assessing founders beyond just metrics, sharing crazy stories from the VC world. They also emphasize the need for authenticity in an industry often driven by ego and superficial success, advocating for genuine relationships and accountability in investing.

Tony Haile, former CEO of Chartbeat and Scroll, now at Twitter, dives into the surge of Melania Trump’s NFT series and Reddit’s exciting IPO ambitions. He discusses the unique challenges of merging politics with commerce in the digital sphere. Haile also sheds light on the evolution of Twitter’s subscription model, emphasizing user experience and content monetization. He elaborates on innovative strategies for navigating the changing landscape of digital advertising while fostering community engagement. Get ready for tech insights with a twist!

Oliver Rowen, co-founder of SupporTrends, dives into how customer feedback can drive product innovation and improve businesses. Erin Houston, co-founder and CEO of Wearwell, shares insights on the rising trend of sustainable fashion, especially among younger consumers who prioritize eco-friendly options. They discuss the challenges of transparency and ethical production in the fashion industry, as well as the importance of understanding consumer needs to build successful brands. The conversation blends humor and valuable business strategies for budding entrepreneurs.

Discover the intriguing updates on the Elizabeth Holmes trial, highlighting critical oversight by prosecutors. Dive into Nike's bold move as it acquires an NFT studio, shaping the future of digital ownership. Explore the unusual rise of Tether as a currency for Myanmar's shadow government amid turmoil. Plus, enjoy the story of a Japanese billionaire delivering Uber Eats to the International Space Station, pushing the boundaries of food delivery into orbit. A mix of technology, finance, and a dash of humor awaits!

Mike Radenbaugh, founder and CEO of Rad Power Bikes, delves into the booming world of electric bikes, sharing insights on innovative features and the importance of regulatory support for urban mobility. He discusses the direct-to-consumer model that fuels customer engagement. The conversation also turns to Peloton's potential undervaluation and the impact of subscription models in fitness. Later, there's a captivating recap of the finale of 'Succession,' exploring themes of power and privilege, as well as behind-the-scenes insights on producing the series.

Samuel Spitz, founder of Wearloom, discusses revolutionizing the secondhand fashion market for sustainability. Sudhama Bhatia shares insights on optimizing scheduling with his premium calendar app, Track. Marie Ng highlights productivity improvements using Llama Life’s time management tool. Lastly, Erifili Gounari, a Gen Z marketer, explores the digital nomad lifestyle and the unique trends influencing her generation's approach to entrepreneurship. Their lively banter covers the intersections of innovation, sustainability, and evolving work cultures.

Explore the intriguing dynamics of the crypto world as key figures like Brian Armstrong skip crucial hearings, sparking debates on regulatory clarity. Dive into Adele's innovative NFT solution to combat ticket scalping, aiming for fair access to concerts. Plus, discover ten crucial tips for startup founders from lean management practices to ensuring constant product engagement. Emphasizing structured communication and accountability could transform team dynamics and drive success!

Dive into the vibrant world of Art Basel, where the clash of cryptocurrency and high society creates a unique atmosphere. Hear about candid encounters with industry leaders like Beeple and JUUL's CEO, touching on the ethical dilemmas of youth marketing. The discussion also highlights Cathie Wood’s insights on crypto investments and reflects on Better.com’s controversial mass layoffs, emphasizing the crucial need for compassion in corporate leadership. It's a fascinating blend of art, finance, and the humanity behind business decisions.

Geoff Lewis, Co-Founder and Managing Director at Bedrock Capital, shares his insights on the entrepreneurial journey and the intriguing concept of assessing founders through 'vibe.' He dives into his investment in Praxis, a city-state builder, and discusses the evolving landscape of defense tech and AI. Lewis critiques the notion of prestigious educational backgrounds, advocating for innovation over Ivy League degrees. He also explores the potential of crypto-driven nation-states and reflects on the transformative power of storytelling in securing investment.