
The Startup Podcast
A guide to the unique mindset and approach that drives Silicon Valley style disruption.
Build product, raise money, and scale your startup like the best. TSP hosts Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein share practical advice based on decades of experience at Google, Uber, and their own startups.
Latest episodes

Feb 19, 2025 • 42min
Insiders React: AI Killing Junior Jobs + Apple & Meta's Robot Bet, Grok 3 Flops, Startup Chaos Ladder
Are you prepared for a world where humanoid robots work alongside us? It's not science fiction anymore – it's happening now, and faster than you might think.In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein dive into the latest developments in robotics, AI, and the changing landscape of work and entrepreneurship. They explore how major tech companies are investing heavily in humanoid robots and what it means for the future of various industries.In this episode, you will: Discover why companies like Apple, Meta, and Google are betting big on humanoid robots Learn about the potential impact of AI on junior roles, especially in software engineering Understand the challenges and opportunities created by the rapid advancement of AI and robotics Explore the massive value creation potential arising from shifts in regulations, technology, and culture Gain insights on how to position yourself and your business to thrive in this new era Hear perspectives on Elon Musk's latest AI venture, Grok, and its place in the competitive landscape Consider the broader societal implications of these technological advancementsThe PactHonour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please: Follow, rate, and review us in your listening app Subscribe to the TSP Mailing List athttps://thestartuppodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe Secure your official TSP merchandise athttps://shop.tsp.show/ Follow us on YouTube athttps://www.youtube.com/@startup-podcast Give us a public shout-out on LinkedIn or anywhere you have a social media following.Key links The Startup Podcast is sponsored by Vanta. Vanta helps businesses get and stay compliant by automating up to 90% of the work for the most in demand compliance frameworks. With over 200 integrations, you can easily monitor and secure the tools your business relies on. For a limited-time offer of US$1,000 off, go towww.vanta.com/tsp. Get your question in for our next Q&A episode:https://forms.gle/NZzgNWVLiFmwvFA2A The Startup Podcast website:https://tsp.showLearn more about Chris and YanivWork 1:1 with Chris:http://chrissaad.com/advisory/Follow Chris on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/Follow Yaniv on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/CreditsEditor:Justin McArthurContent Strategist: Carolina Franco Intro Voice:Jeremiah Owyang

23 snips
Feb 17, 2025 • 47min
5 Simple Rules for Meetings That Don’t Suck (and Actually Get Sh*t Done)
Tired of meetings that waste time? Discover how to turn them into engines of productivity. Learn the importance of clear objectives and structured agendas for effective collaboration. Find out how to refresh recurring meetings and manage time wisely to prevent fatigue. Explore the concept of minimum viable meetings, assessing value regularly to keep only what's necessary. Plus, get pro tips on preparation and communication to ensure meetings are beneficial for everyone involved!

Feb 12, 2025 • 45min
Insiders React: Musk Trolls Altman + ChatGPT’s Deep Research, AI's Infinite ROI, JD Vance Gets It Right (...Sort Of)
Dive into the revolutionary capabilities of OpenAI's deep research mode, enabling AI to analyze complex topics in minutes. The discussion touches on the implications of Elon Musk's controversial bid for OpenAI and the shifting power dynamics in the tech industry. Explore JD Vance's insights on AI policy and the intersection of automation and immigration. Delve into the ethical considerations arising from rapid AI advancements, all while balancing serious topics with a splash of humor about life's simple joys.

Feb 10, 2025 • 42min
Scaling with AI- How AI Will Transform Your Startup w/ Grammarly CEO Shishir Mehrotra
Shishir Mehrotra, CEO of the newly merged Coda and Grammarly, discusses the exciting future of AI-native productivity tools. With a background at Microsoft and YouTube, he shares insights on how AI can seamlessly integrate into workflows, transforming the role of founders in startups. The conversation covers the concept of AI agents versus traditional chatbots, the importance of automation, and practical applications like status reporting. Mehrotra emphasizes human ingenuity’s critical role in enhancing productivity in an AI-powered world.

Feb 5, 2025 • 48min
Insiders React: Trump’s DOGE Disaster + Open Source OpenAI, Bluesky Beats Twitter
Is the AI landscape about to be turned on its head? Are we witnessing the birth of a new social media giant?
In this episode, Yaniv Bernstein, Shira Lazar, and Amir Shevat dive into the latest tech developments that are reshaping industries and sparking heated debates.
In this episode, you will:
Analyze the impact of DeepSeek on the AI industry and OpenAI's surprising response
Explore how Trump's tariff policies could affect tech companies and startups
Examine concerns about Doge's approach to running the US government and its potential consequences
Discover why BlueSky is gaining traction as a Twitter alternative and its unique features
Learn about the importance of moderation in social media platforms
Understand the potential shift towards open protocols in social networking
Gain insights into the challenges of transitioning from running companies to governing countries
The Pact
Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:
Follow, rate, and review us in your listening app
Subscribe to the TSP Mailing List at https://thestartuppodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe
Secure your official TSP merchandise at https://shop.tsp.show/
Follow us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@startup-podcast
Give us a public shout-out on LinkedIn or anywhere you have a social media following.
Key links
The Startup Podcast is sponsored by Vanta. Vanta helps businesses get and stay compliant by automating up to 90% of the work for the most in demand compliance frameworks. With over 200 integrations, you can easily monitor and secure the tools your business relies on. For a limited-time offer of US$1,000 off, go to www.vanta.com/tsp.
Get your question in for our next Q&A episode: https://forms.gle/NZzgNWVLiFmwvFA2A
The Startup Podcast website: https://tsp.show
Learn more about Chris and Yaniv
Work 1:1 with Chris: http://chrissaad.com/advisory/
Follow Chris on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/
Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/
Credits
Editor: Justin McArthur
Content Strategist: Carolina Franco
Intro Voice: Jeremiah Owyang

5 snips
Feb 3, 2025 • 59min
Founder Mistakes – Why Most Founders Fail (and How Coaching Helps You Succeed) w/ Alexis d'Amecourt
In this engaging conversation, Alexis d'Amecourt, Head of Coaching at Mochary Method, shares insights from his journey as a three-time tech founder. He discusses common pitfalls that lead to founder failures, stressing the importance of self-awareness and effective delegation. Alexis emphasizes the need for clear communication of vision and maintaining a balance between ambition and well-being. He also explores overcoming imposter syndrome and the transformative potential of coaching, offering valuable tips for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Jan 29, 2025 • 48min
Insiders React: AI's DeepSeek Freakout + Trump's $500B AI Power Play, Elon Plays Footsie With Fascism
Are we witnessing the dawn of a new era in AI, or the potential erosion of democracy through unchecked technological power?
In this hard-hitting episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein tackle the latest seismic shifts in the AI landscape. From Project Stargate's staggering $500 billion investment to DeepSeek's game-changing cost-effective model, they explore how these developments are reshaping the industry and raising critical ethical questions about the future of technology and society.
In this episode, you will:
Decode the true implications of Project Stargate's massive AI investment and its potential impact on US technological dominance
Analyze how DeepSeek's breakthrough could democratize AI development and challenge tech giants' monopolies
Examine the geopolitical chess game unfolding between the US and China in the race for AI supremacy
Evaluate the potential market disruption for industry leaders like NVIDIA and OpenAI
Scrutinize the alarming behavior of tech leaders and discuss the parallels to historical fascist movements
Explore the ethical responsibilities of AI developers in an increasingly polarized world
Gain actionable insights on how to navigate the rapidly evolving AI landscape as a founder, investor, or industry professional
The Pact
Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:
Follow, rate, and review us in your listening app
Subscribe to the TSP Mailing List at https://thestartuppodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe
Secure your official TSP merchandise at https://shop.tsp.show/
Follow us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@startup-podcast
Give us a public shout-out on LinkedIn or anywhere you have a social media following.
Key links
The Startup Podcast is sponsored by Vanta. Vanta helps businesses get and stay compliant by automating up to 90% of the work for the most in demand compliance frameworks. With over 200 integrations, you can easily monitor and secure the tools your business relies on. For a limited-time offer of US$1,000 off, go to www.vanta.com/tsp.
Get your question in for our next Q&A episode: https://forms.gle/NZzgNWVLiFmwvFA2A
The Startup Podcast website: https://tsp.show
Learn more about Chris and Yaniv
Work 1:1 with Chris: http://chrissaad.com/advisory/
Follow Chris on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/
Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/
Credits
Editor: Justin McArthur
Content Strategist: Carolina Franco
Intro Voice: Jeremiah Owyang

Jan 27, 2025 • 44min
Types of Capital - The Hidden Risks of Bootstrapping That Could Sink You w/Scotty Allen (Edu)
Are you dreaming of launching the next unicorn startup? Before you quit your day job and pour your life savings into that brilliant idea, you might want to listen to this episode.
In this episode, Yaniv Bernstein is joined by Scotty Allen, startup advisor and founder of The Product Bus, to dive deep into the realities of startup funding, the risks of bootstrapping, and the importance of knowing which "game" you're playing as a founder.
In this episode, you will:
Understand the risks and challenges of bootstrapping vs seeking funding
Learn why validation is crucial before building a full product
Recognize the importance of knowing your strengths and weaknesses as a founder
Discover how to "know the game you're playing" in the startup world
Identify the dangers of falling into the sunk cost fallacy
Gain perspective on realistic startup success rates
Appreciate the value of failing fast and learning from failures
Explore strategies for efficient idea validation and prototyping
Consider alternative paths to building successful businesses outside the VC model
The Pact
Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:
Follow, rate, and review us in your listening app
Subscribe to the TSP Mailing List at https://thestartuppodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe
Secure your official TSP merchandise at https://shop.tsp.show/
Follow us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@startup-podcast
Give us a public shout-out on LinkedIn or anywhere you have a social media following.
Key links
The Startup Podcast is sponsored by Vanta. Vanta helps businesses get and stay compliant by automating up to 90% of the work for the most in demand compliance frameworks. With over 200 integrations, you can easily monitor and secure the tools your business relies on. For a limited-time offer of US$1,000 off, go to www.vanta.com/tsp.
Get your question in for our next Q&A episode: https://forms.gle/NZzgNWVLiFmwvFA2A
The Startup Podcast website: https://tsp.show
Learn more about Chris and Yaniv
Work 1:1 with Chris: http://chrissaad.com/advisory/
Follow Chris on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/
Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/
Credits
Editor: Justin McArthur
Content Strategist: Carolina Franco https://www.linkedin.com/in/francocarolina/
Intro Voice: Jeremiah Owyang

Jan 22, 2025 • 57min
Insiders React: TikTok Trolls USA + Trump’s Crypto Scam, OpenAI's Agent Strategy, AI VCs
Is TikTok banned or not? The saga continues as Trump swoops in to "unban" the app, leaving creators and users whiplashed. But what's really going on behind the scenes in this high-stakes game of political chess?
In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein are joined by special guests Shira Lazar and Elli Hanson to unpack the latest tech and political drama. From TikTok's uncertain fate to Trump's meme coin launch, the team explores how these developments impact founders, investors, and the future of technology.
In this episode, you will:
Decode the TikTok ban flip-flop and its implications for US-China relations
Analyze Trump's meme coin launch and what it reveals about his approach to tech and finance
Explore the latest AI breakthroughs, including OpenAI's O3 mini model and new Tasks feature
Discuss the potential of AI agents like Bordy.ai and their impact on industries like venture capital
Gain insights on how founders can navigate the rapidly evolving AI landscape
Examine the ethical considerations of AI development and deployment
Consider the future of human-AI interaction and its societal implications
The Pact
Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:
Follow, rate, and review us in your listening app
Subscribe to the TSP Mailing List at https://thestartuppodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe
Secure your official TSP merchandise at https://shop.tsp.show/
Follow us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@startup-podcast
Give us a public shout-out on LinkedIn or anywhere you have a social media following.
Key links
The Startup Podcast is sponsored by Vanta. Vanta helps businesses get and stay compliant by automating up to 90% of the work for the most in demand compliance frameworks. With over 200 integrations, you can easily monitor and secure the tools your business relies on. For a limited-time offer of US$1,000 off, go to www.vanta.com/tsp.
Get your question in for our next Q&A episode: https://forms.gle/NZzgNWVLiFmwvFA2A
The Startup Podcast website: https://tsp.show
Learn more about Chris and Yaniv
Work 1:1 with Chris: http://chrissaad.com/advisory/
Follow Chris on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/
Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/
Credits
Editor: Justin McArthur
Content Strategist: Carolina Franco

Jan 20, 2025 • 1h 5min
Startup Funding - VC, Bootstrapping, or Debt? The Funding Spectrum Explained (Edu)
Are you a founder struggling to figure out how to fund your startup? With so many options available - from bootstrapping to VC funding - how do you know which path is right for you?
In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein break down the full spectrum of startup funding sources, exploring the pros, cons, and hidden pitfalls of each approach. Whether you're considering self-funding, equity financing, or debt, you'll gain crucial insights to make an informed decision.
In this episode, you will:
Discover the key differences between revenue-based, equity, and debt financing
Understand the pros and cons of bootstrapping vs raising external capital
Learn about alternative funding sources like float and cross-subsidies
Gain insights into the risks of over-relying on self-funding as a founder
Explore strategies for allocating and deploying capital efficiently
Understand how different funding approaches impact your startup's growth trajectory
Learn how to balance frugality with bold investment in scaling your business
Get advice on choosing the right funding mix for your specific startup
The Pact
Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:
Follow, rate, and review us in your listening app
Subscribe to the TSP Mailing List at https://thestartuppodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe
Secure your official TSP merchandise at https://shop.tsp.show/
Follow us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@startup-podcast
Give us a public shout-out on LinkedIn or anywhere you have a social media following.
Key links
The Startup Podcast is sponsored by Vanta. Vanta helps businesses get and stay compliant by automating up to 90% of the work for the most in demand compliance frameworks. With over 200 integrations, you can easily monitor and secure the tools your business relies on. For a limited-time offer of US$1,000 off, go to www.vanta.com/tsp.
Get your question in for our next Q&A episode: https://forms.gle/NZzgNWVLiFmwvFA2A
The Startup Podcast website: https://tsp.show
Learn more about Chris and Yaniv
Work 1:1 with Chris: http://chrissaad.com/advisory/
Follow Chris on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/
Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/
Credits
Editor: Justin McArthur
Content Strategist: Carolina Franco https://www.linkedin.com/in/francocarolina/
Intro Voice: Jeremiah Owyang