Capella Kirst, founder of Gecko Materials, specializes in biomimicry-based adhesives, while Julia Dixon leads SAI, an AI platform aimed at democratizing college admissions. They discuss the fascinating intersection of innovation and nature, revealing how Gecko Materials harnesses gecko-inspired technology. The conversation also highlights the pivotal shifts in venture capital dynamics, reflecting on a robust funding journey and the emotional highs and lows of startup pitching. Listeners gain insights into educational reform and the role of technology in enhancing college access.

Khaylah Epps, CEO of Oma Health, passionately addresses the healthcare disparities faced by Black women in the South and advocates for nurse practitioners' vital roles in bridging these gaps. She details her innovative strategies to simplify healthcare access and tackle high costs. Investor Cyan Banister provides insightful feedback on the challenges of securing funding and the intricacies of pitching to investors. Their conversation highlights both the conviction required in making systemic change and the realities of navigating the complex healthcare landscape.

Chinar Movsisyan, founder of Feedback Intelligence, shares her innovative take on leveraging user feedback to enhance AI performance. She dives into the challenges of AI hallucinations and how her startup aims to convert insights into actionable strategies. The conversation also highlights the complexities of fundraising, with Chinar seeking $2 million for equity while discussing negotiation tactics and cybersecurity needs for startups. Listeners gain fascinating perspectives on transforming customer feedback into valuable data in the ever-evolving world of AI.

Gwyneth Borden, Founder and CEO of Remint, aims to revolutionize debt recovery, focusing on social impact and helping consumers, especially Gen Z and low-income individuals, manage debts. She shares her innovative approach to easing the stress of traditional debt collection. Investors Cyan Banister, Mac Conwell, Ben Taft, and Elizabeth Yin discuss the strategic challenges startups face in securing funding and effectively pitching to venture capitalists. They emphasize the need for authenticity and resilience in navigating the financial landscape.

Ryan James, CEO of Doppel Technologies, discusses revolutionary telerobotic ultrasound systems designed to enhance healthcare access for rural America. He outlines the need for investment to improve healthcare equity. Elizabeth Yin, an angel investor at Mercury, brings insights on how innovative banking solutions can support startups in this sector. Together, they explore the impact of 5G technology on remote medical procedures and the regulatory challenges foreign firms face in the U.S. healthcare market.

Julia Dixon, founder of ESAI, discusses her AI platform that aims to make college admissions more accessible and affordable. She shares insights on innovative tools to streamline the application process, emphasizing personal statements and market strategies. Investors Jesse Middleton, Charles Hudson, Elizabeth Yin, and Mac Conwell provide feedback on funding and growth. Imad Akhund, CEO of Mercury, joins in to highlight banking solutions tailored for startups. Together, they explore the challenges of traditional education and the need for innovative approaches.

In this engaging discussion, Virginia Frischkorn, founder of Partytrick and seasoned event planner, shares her journey of pivoting from traditional event management to tech innovation. She highlights the $322 billion event planning industry's challenges and the need for detailed ROI tracking. Investors Ben Taft and Elizabeth Yin discuss the dynamics of startup banking and investment motivations. Personal stories reveal how entrepreneurial drives can stem from adversity, while insights on product design and market potential shed light on the future of event technology.

Dean Eberhardt, founder of ReCraft and former creator of Hoplark, pitches a revolutionary brewing technology that increases efficiency by 30%. Elizabeth Yin shares insights on startup banking trends and highlights the importance of community support. Mac Conwell expresses enthusiasm for ReCraft’s innovation, while Jesse Middleton critically evaluates the pitch. The conversation blends brewing passion with business strategy, emphasizing the transformative power of technology in the craft beer industry and the unique opportunities for investors.

Chad Wilson, a visionary aiming to revolutionize history education with video games, shares his groundbreaking ideas. He discusses the immersive use of RPGs to teach historical events and how game-based learning can increase student engagement. Investors Cyan Banister, Charles Hudson, Elizabeth Yin, Mac Conwell, and Jesse Middleton weigh in with insights on funding innovative educational tech. The group explores the balance between accurate storytelling and technological advancements in creating compelling learning experiences.

Jorge Rios, founder of Bridgefy, introduces his groundbreaking peer-to-peer networking tech that operates without internet access, ideal for disaster scenarios. Investors Cyan Banister, Charles Hudson, Josh Muccio, and Jesse Middleton dive into funding challenges and the technology's potential to bridge communication gaps. They discuss partnerships for app development and explore the shift from consumer apps to B2B solutions. The conversation also highlights the critical role of emergency communication and advocates for free speech during crises.