TechSurge: Deep Tech Podcast

With global economic alliances shifting and new threats emerging, will the U.S. maintain its dominance in an increasingly complex world? From chips to cyberterrorist threats to cryptocurrency, battles for global dominance are no longer only fought on the battlefield—they're playing out in markets, boardrooms, and cyberspace. In this episode, we sit down with Juan Zarate, a key member of the post-9/11 Bush Administration team who architected how we combat terrorist financing and think about modern financial warfare.We explore how the U.S. has used its economic dominance as a powerful weapon—and whether countries like China and Russia are now using the same playbook to push back. Juan shares insights on the weaponization of the dollar, how financial crime networks are evolving in the digital age, and why strategies around cryptocurrency could either threaten or reinforce U.S. economic power.The conversation dives into the intersection of technology, economic, and national security strategy, tackling key issues like cyber threats, semiconductor supply chains, and the growing role of AI in financial security. Juan also introduces his latest venture, Consilient, which is pioneering federated AI to revolutionize the fight against financial crime.If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Sign up for our newsletter at techsurgepodcast.com for exclusive insights and information about upcoming TechSurge Live Summits.Links:Check out our video episodes on YouTubeFollow Celesta Capital on LinkedIn and XDiscover how K2 Integrity is shaping the future of financial crime prevention and cybersecurityhttps://www.k2integrity.comRead Juan Zarate’s Treasury’s War to explore the rise of financial warfare in global securityhttps://www.amazon.com/Treasurys-War-Unleashing-Financial-Warfare/dp/1610391152Explore Consilient’s groundbreaking approach to financial crime detection using federated AIhttps://www.consilient.comLearn how Coinbase is driving the future of cryptocurrency and digital financehttps://www.coinbase.com

The world is evolving faster than ever – how will we keep up?From AI breakthroughs to global supply chain disruptions, the forces shaping business and technology today are relentless. In this episode of the TechSurge Deep Tech VC Podcast, we sit down with Bob Sternfels, Global Managing Partner of McKinsey & Company, the global consulting firm who has been on the frontlines of helping businesses and industries navigate relentless change for the past 100 years.We explore the shifting landscape of venture capital and opportunities for VCs, startups, and consultancies to explore new partnership models. Bob shares his view on shifting global supply chain strategies, why full economic decoupling between the U.S. and China is a dangerous and difficult proposition, and how India may be on track to become the economic powerhouse of the twenty-first century. The discussion digs into the complexities of housing affordability and why the future of housing insurance is at risk – could our homes of the future soon be uninsurable due to climate change?Bob helps us dive into the evolving demands of 21st-century leadership, where resilience, adaptability, and even humor are becoming essential CEO traits. Bob explains why today’s leaders must rethink their approach to disruption, risk, and innovation – or risk being left behind.If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Sign up for our newsletter at techsurgepodcast.com for exclusive insights and information about upcoming TechSurge Live Summits.Links:Check out our video episodes on YouTubeFollow Celesta Capital on LinkedIn and XLearn more about Bob Sternfels’ leadership at McKinsey & Companyhttps://www.mckinsey.com/our-people/bob-sternfelsExplore McKinsey’s insights on AI and economic disruptionhttps://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/mckinsey-digital/our-insights/the-economic-potential-of-generative-ai-the-next-productivity-frontierLearn how climate change is affecting insurance marketshttps://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/risk-and-resilience/our-insights/navigating-shifting-risks-in-the-insurance-industryLearn about India’s digital transformation through UPI and Aadhaarhttps://www.npci.org.in/what-we-do/upi/product-overviewhttps://uidai.gov.in/ (00:00) - Introduction to Bob Sternfeld and McKinsey's Vision (06:49) - The Transformative Power of AI in Business (12:52) - Navigating the Complexities of Cloud and On-Prem Solutions (18:03) - Geopolitical Impacts on Global Supply Chains (23:18) - India's Economic Potential and Future Growth (24:13) - India's Rapid Digitization and Economic Transformation (28:20) - The Housing Crisis: Understanding Affordability and Community (38:13) - 21st Century Leadership: Evolving Traits and Challenges

The future of wireless technology is unfolding, are you ready for what's next?How can Intel regain market dominance? How will AI and IOT shape the next generation of wireless? What are the challenges in transitioning to 5G, NextG, and beyond? How will academia and the startup world intersect in the 21st century economy? We explore these questions and more in our latest episode of the TechSurge Deep Tech VC Podcast, as we sit down with Dr. Andrea Goldsmith, Dean of Princeton University’s School of Engineering and Applied Science and a pioneer in wireless communication. Dr. Goldsmith shares insights from her groundbreaking research in multi-antenna systems, the evolution of wireless networks, and the future of cellular technology. We explore her journey as a successful entrepreneur behind Quantenna and Plume WiFi, and her current leadership role as Dean working to build a vibrant engineering and startup ecosystem around Princeton. Dr. Goldsmith also shares her thoughts on the future of Intel, the strategic choices that lie ahead, and its important role within the U.S. tech economy, as well as the broader geopolitical landscape.Enjoyed this conversation? Subscribe now and leave a review to help us grow! Join our newsletter for exclusive insights and upcoming TechSurge Live Summits at techsurgepodcast.com.Links:Check out our video episodes on YouTubeFollow Celesta Capital on LinkedIn and XLearn more about Dr. Goldsmith’s pioneering research at Princeton: https://ece.princeton.edu/people/andrea-goldsmithDiscover Intel's latest innovations: https://www.intel.com/Explore how Plume WiFi is redefining smart home connectivity: https://www.plume.com/ See how Medtronic is shaping the future of healthcare innovation: https://www.medtronic.com/Experience the future of autonomous mobility with Zoox: https://zoox.com/

In this episode, host Michael Marks dives into the transformative role of artificial intelligence in healthcare. Michael is joined by Dr. Alex Sardiña of WhiteRabbit.ai and Kalyan Sivasilam of 5C Network, two early adopters bringing AI to medicine through sharply contrasting market models in the U.S. and India, respectively. The discussion unpacks how AI is revolutionizing diagnostics, helping to address labor shortages, and improving patient experiences. Learn about breakthroughs in cancer detection, radiology efficiency, regulatory challenges, and the global potential of AI-driven solutions in medicine.Chapters00:00 Introduction to AI in Healthcare02:01 AI Applications in Cancer Detection04:56 Addressing Radiologist Shortages with AI07:47 The Reality of AI in Medical Imaging12:06 Data Acquisition and Its Challenges16:25 The Future of Radiologists in an AI World22:00 Improving Accuracy in Medical Imaging with AI23:25 AI in Diagnostic Imaging25:18 Building vs. Partnering in AI Healthcare29:40 Navigating Regulatory Environments34:23 The Role of Insurance in AI Adoption39:39 Overcoming Hurdles for AI Acceptance43:56 Competition and Innovation in AILinkshttps://www.5cnetwork.com/https://www.whiterabbit.ai/KeywordsAI, healthcare, medical imaging, cancer detection, radiology, diagnostics, technology, healthcare investment, patient care, data acquisition, AI, healthcare, diagnostic imaging, regulatory environment, insurance, competition, innovation, technology, partnerships, patient care

Host Sriram Viswanathan sits down with Qualcomm Chairman Mark McLaughlin, the former CEO of Palo Alto Networks and Verisign and a trailblazer in technology and cybersecurity. Mark shares his remarkable transition from West Point to the heights of the tech industry, drawing on the many powerful leadership lessons developed throughout his career. Mark shares advice on balancing family priorities and career choices, offering a deeply human perspective on leadership told through his unique experience of stepping down from Palo Alto Networks at the height of his prime as CEO. The discussion touches on the shifting terrain of cybersecurity, the growing influence of AI, and the complexities of board leadership during periods of CEO transition. This episode is packed with practical insights for anyone looking to navigate a c-suite career in tech.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Mark McLaughlin01:53 Mark's Journey from Military to Technology06:13 The Evolution of Cybersecurity and Mark's Insights12:02 The Five T's of Business Success17:54 Leadership Lessons from West Point24:11 Transitioning from CEO to Family Life30:01 Board Dynamics and Leadership Transitions36:12 The Intersection of AI and Cybersecurity41:59 Personal Philosophy and Leadership InspirationLinksQualcommSnowflakeRubrikSnorkelPalo Alto NetworksKeywordsMark McLaughlin, cybersecurity, technology, leadership, AI, venture capital, family, business success, board dynamics, personal philosophy

Host Sriram Viswanathan speaks with Andy Lee and Anand Chandrasekaran from Crescendo AI about the transformative impact of AI on the customer service and call center industry. The conversation covers Crescendo's unique approach to integrating AI in business process outsourcing, the dynamics of the sector, and the potential future of human-AI collaboration. Discover how AI is poised to disrupt and enhance the BPO industry, and why Crescendo AI is at the forefront of this technological revolution.Chapters00:00 Introduction to AI in Customer Service02:48 Dynamics of the Contact Center Industry06:09 Crescendo AI: Founders and Vision08:58 AI's Impact on Customer Interactions11:54 Technical Architecture of Crescendo AI15:06 Market Strategy and Customer Experience17:56 Scaling and Growth of Crescendo AI21:03 Future of AI in Customer Service24:00 Conclusion and Future OutlookLinkshttps://crescendo.ai/https://www.alorica.com/https://www.generalcatalyst.com/

Join host Michael Marks as he discusses the transformative potential of technology in the construction industry with leaders from three innovative companies: Ash Bhardwaj, CEO and co-founder of Onx Homes; Trevor Schick, CEO of Slate.ai; and Camilo Restrepo, CEO of Biomason. The conversation delves into the challenges of disrupting the construction sector, the roles of AI and data in improving productivity, and novel approaches to sustainability and affordability in home building. Explore the future of construction technology and the strides these companies are making towards resilient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly construction solutions.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Construction Technology Challenges02:59 Innovative Approaches in Home Building05:49 Data Utilization and AI in Construction08:46 Sustainability in Construction Materials11:57 Biomason's Unique Approach to Cement14:56 Sustainability and Resilience in Home Building18:06 Addressing Housing Affordability22:43 Understanding Home Upkeep Costs27:04 Innovative Building Practices for Resilience28:12 Real Estate Insights and Affordability31:37 Marketing Innovative Construction Solutions37:56 The Future of Technology in Construction‍‍Keywordsconstruction technology, home building, AI in construction, sustainability, carbon footprint, housing affordability, innovative materials, data utilization, construction industry challenges, emerging technologies, home building, construction innovation, affordability, insurance savings, energy efficiency, resilient homes, marketing strategies, technology in construction, generative AI, sustainable materials‍Linkshttps://www.onxhomes.com/https://slate.ai/https://biomason.com/

In this episode of TechSurge: The Deep Tech Podcast, host Nicholas Brathwaite of Celesta Capital speaks with Christian Mitchell, Chief Digital and Information Officer at Northwestern Mutual, about the profound digital transformation happening in the financial services and insurance sectors. The discussion covers how legacy systems are being modernized, the role of AI in enhancing underwriting and customer experiences, and the increasing importance of cybersecurity in safeguarding sensitive data. Christian also shares insights on the evolution of FinTech startups and Northwestern Mutual’s approach to investing in and partnering with innovative tech companies, providing a deep dive into how technology is reshaping long-established industries while balancing innovation with regulatory and customer needs.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Tech Surge and Industry Transformation02:46 Legacy Technology vs. Digital Transformation in Financial Services05:55 The Evolution of FinTech: From 1.0 to Current Trends09:08 Leveraging Startups and Deep Tech for Innovation11:58 Navigating Challenges in Digital Transformation15:06 Talent Acquisition and Company Culture in Tech18:01 The Role of the Innovation Lab in Driving Change20:54 AI's Impact on Business Operations and Customer Experience24:02 Addressing Privacy, Bias, and Ethical AI Implementation26:58 Data Management Strategies: Cloud vs. On-Premise 29:47 Cybersecurity as a Collective ResponsibilityLinkshttps://www.northwesternmutual.com/https://fintechbreakthrough.com/2022-winners

In this episode, we explore the future of mobility and AI with Aicha Evans, CEO of Zoox, a leading developer of autonomous robotaxis and an Amazon company. Joining Celesta Capital’s founding partner Sriram Viswanathan, Aicha shares her journey from Senegal to Silicon Valley, where she led groundbreaking innovations at Intel before taking the helm at Zoox. Together, they discuss the challenges and opportunities in autonomous transportation, the evolving role of AI in various industries, and the critical importance of safety, customer experience, and scaling in the robotaxi space. Tune in for insights on the future of transportation and the transformative potential of AI in shaping our daily lives.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Aicha Evans and Zoox02:02 Aicha's Journey from Senegal to Silicon Valley05:47 Pioneering Wireless Technology at Intel10:57 Intel's Challenges and the Evolution of AI13:47 The Role of AI in Technology Companies18:08 The Future of AI and Human Judgment25:01 The Robotaxi Revolution and Zoox's Vision30:06 Differentiating Zoox in the Robotaxi Market37:01 Technology Behind Zoox's Robotaxi44:01 Regulatory Challenges and Future Prospects51:06 Zoox's Integration with Amazon and Future MilestonesLinkshttps://zoox.com/

Will AI will take away all of our jobs? Is technology eroding privacy? Is the pace of technology advancement too fast? We address these questions and more topics around global science and technology policy with Rob Atkinson, founder and president of the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation. Speaking with Celesta Capital founding partner Nic Brathwaite, Rob dives into the intersection of technology, innovation, and public policy, covering topics such as ethical AI, the role of China in the global innovation race, and the realities facing smaller economies in blossoming into tech hubs. Rob shares his insights on innovation economics, government policy, and the critical role of entrepreneurs in shaping the future of tech.Chapters00:00 Introduction to ITIF and Rob Atkinson03:07 The Importance of Innovation in Economic Growth05:59 Challenges for Smaller Economies in Innovation09:09 Core Pillars of a Strong Innovation Economy11:56 India's Potential in the Global Innovation Landscape15:10 AI Development: Balancing Speed and Safety18:00 Debunking Myths About Technology and Jobs21:10 The Global Tech Landscape: US vs. China24:02 Canada's Innovation Challenges and Opportunities26:45 Building a Strong Innovation Ecosystem30:07 The Role of Intellectual Property in InnovationLinkshttps://itif.org/https://itif.org/publications/2024/05/07/technology-fears-and-scapegoats/https://mitpress.mit.edu/9780262537100/https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0300168993/