Tank Talks By Ripple Ventures

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen sits down with Sameer Dhar, Co-Founder and CEO of NiaHealth, to explore how proactive healthcare is reshaping the future of medicine.Sameer shares his remarkable journey from living in nursing homes for a year while building his first startup (Sensassure) to launching NiaHealth, a Canadian health-tech company empowering people to take ownership of their longevity through AI-driven diagnostics and personalized insights.With over $8 million in funding and a 12,000-person waitlist, NiaHealth is building a clinician-first model that complements Canada’s public system, helping users prevent disease decades before it develops. Sameer also discusses why prevention, not treatment, must drive the next wave of healthcare innovation, how AI will augment rather than replace clinicians, and what it takes to build a mission-driven company in a regulated industry.Whether you’re a founder, investor, or health enthusiast, this conversation reveals how the next generation of health tech startups can blend AI, clinical integrity, and human empathy to create lasting impact.A Quick Word from our Sponsor, FaskenAt Fasken, our clients don’t wait for the future. They build it. As the first and largest dedicated emerging tech practice in Canada, our team is composed of founders, ex in-house counsel, developers and business advisors who have guided clients from startup, to scale-up, to exit. The trust of our clients has enabled us to consistently rank at the top of every major Canadian M&A, Capital Markets and Venture Capital league table. With deep industry knowledge and experience across all areas of emerging and high growth technology including ClimateTech, MedTech, Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, and AgTech we’re your partners within the innovation ecosystem as you transform the landscape of what’s possible.Tomorrow starts here. Own it with us.For more information, visit fasken.com/emergingtech and follow us on LinkedIn.The Entrepreneurial Spark (05:52)* How the Next 36 program transformed Sameer from a finance student into a founder* The power of founder-focused education in shaping Canada’s startup ecosystem* Lessons from learning to “think like a builder” instead of an employeeFrom Customer Discovery to Conviction (10:46)* How customer discovery can turn into “analysis paralysis” if you never act* Why true innovation means taking bold bets, not just collecting insights* The importance of timing when moving from research to executionBuilding NiaHealth (13:26)* The personal mission to keep people healthy long before disease develops* How the pandemic revealed gaps in personal healthcare ownership* The evolution of NiaHealth into a platform offering advanced diagnostics, clinician reviews, and personalized longevity plansIntegrating with the System (17:12)* Why NiaHealth chose a “clinician-first” model rather than going fully digital* How nurse practitioners bridge the gap between data and diagnosis* The importance of integrating with Canada’s public system to maintain trustTrust and Transparency (22:51)* Addressing criticism about private healthcare models in Canada* Why NiaHealth avoids affiliate sales to maintain clinical integrity* The company’s research-led approach to responsible, evidence-based testingFilling the System’s Blind Spots (26:13)* Canada’s biggest blind spot: a reactive healthcare model built around disease* How prevention and early diagnostics reduce system strain and save lives* The mission to empower users to act on health risks decades in advanceAI as an Enhancer, Not a Replacement (29:16)* Why Sameer believes AI should support, not replace, clinicians* How AI enhances diagnostic accuracy and clinician productivity* The role of empathy and human connection in patient outcomesScaling Impact (33:11)* NiaHealth’s vision to reach 100,000 Canadians by the end of next year* Partnering with insurers and governments to expand preventative care* Why a “built in Canada, for Canada” strategy is key to long-term successAbout Sameer DharSameer Dhar is the Co-Founder and CEO of Nia Health, a serial entrepreneur and health-tech innovator recognized among Canada’s Top 20 Under 20 and Edmonton’s Top 40 Under 40. He previously founded Sensassure, an elder-care technology startup acquired by global health leader Essity.Connect with Sameer Dhar on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sameerdhar/Visit the NiaHealth website: https://www.niahealth.co/Connect with Matt Cohen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matt-cohen1Visit the Ripple Ventures website: https://www.rippleventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tanktalks.substack.com

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen and John Ruffolo break down the most important stories shaping Canada’s innovation economy, from the upcoming federal budget and its impact on founders and investors, to Canada’s fintech shake-up as open banking finally gains momentum.The duo dives into AI’s growing legal minefield, including the mounting lawsuits against Perplexity and Sora, and discusses what this means for startups training models on licensed versus unlicensed data. They also unpack Cohere’s rumored IPO, Canada’s AI partnership with the UAE, and what it reveals about the country’s global strategy for data centers and sovereign capital.From Blue Jays playoff economics to AI data sovereignty, this Rundown is packed with sharp insights, timely analysis, and the kind of candid commentary you won’t hear anywhere else.A Quick Word from our Sponsor, FaskenAt Fasken, our clients don’t wait for the future. They build it. As the first and largest dedicated emerging tech practice in Canada, our team is composed of founders, ex in-house counsel, developers and business advisors who have guided clients from startup, to scale-up, to exit. The trust of our clients has enabled us to consistently rank at the top of every major Canadian M&A, Capital Markets and Venture Capital league table. With deep industry knowledge and experience across all areas of emerging and high growth technology including ClimateTech, MedTech, Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, and AgTech we’re your partners within the innovation ecosystem as you transform the landscape of what’s possible.Tomorrow starts here. Own it with us.For more information, visit fasken.com/emergingtech and follow us on LinkedIn.Canada’s Make-or-Break Federal Budget (08:46)With the federal budget weeks away, John calls this the Liberal government’s credibility test, a defining moment for innovation, R&D reform, and fiscal discipline.* The state of Canada’s finances and investor sentiment* Expectations for R&D tax credit and AI policy reform* Why “good ideas” might not matter if the fiscal hole is too deepOpen Banking Finally Gets Real (12:55)The Bank of Canada registers 300 new payment service providers, marking a major milestone for Canada’s fintech ecosystem.* How this could shake up the Big 5 banks’ oligopoly* Why Wealthsimple, Shopify, and Koho stand to gain* John’s take on trust, liquidity, and the future of financial competitionCanada-UAE AI Investment Deal (15:34)AI Minister Evan Solomon signs a non-binding MOU with the UAE on data center investment. Is this a real opportunity or political theater?* What “non-binding” really means for Canada’s capital strategy* Mark Carney’s push to diversify trade away from the U.S.* Why every major country is chasing sovereign data capitalCohere’s IPO Tease and the AI Hype Cycle (18:11)Cohere’s CEO Aidan Gomez hints at “going public soon.” Matt and John weigh the risks and timing of an AI IPO in a frothy market.* Lessons from the Faire America IPO and $16B valuations with no assets* The pressure of capital requirements in AI infrastructure* Why timing the public markets almost never worksAI Lawsuits, IP Infringement, and Data Licensing Wars (20:48)From Reddit vs Perplexity to Hollywood vs. Sora, Matt and John break down the growing AI legal battles over content rights.* The global IP divide: what happens when China ignores licensing rules* Why only the biggest players can afford compliance* The coming “Rule of Three” in the AI data economyConnect with John Ruffolo on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/joruffoloConnect with Matt Cohen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matt-cohen1Visit the Ripple Ventures website: https://www.rippleventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tanktalks.substack.com

In this episode of Tank Talks, Matt Cohen is joined by James Baskin, Founder and CEO of ZeroStone AI, to explore how businesses can transition from AI experimentation to real-world impact. James, a three-time founder with multiple successful exits, shares his journey from engineering at the University of Toronto to building and selling telecom ventures alongside Globalive’s Anthony Lacavera. He offers valuable insights into leadership, resilience, and overcoming imposter syndrome.Drawing from over 300 conversations with CEOs and AI leaders, James discusses why many companies are “AI-aware but not AI-ready.” He reveals how ZeroStone helps mid-market firms turn failed pilots into scalable, impactful AI systems. James also highlights the differences between generative and agentic AI, the dual transformation of technology and people, and the importance of fostering a culture of curiosity and continuous learning for long-term success. This episode offers practical advice for founders and executives navigating the AI revolution.A Quick Word from our Sponsor, FaskenAt Fasken, our clients don’t wait for the future. They build it. As the first and largest dedicated emerging tech practice in Canada, our team is composed of founders, ex in-house counsel, developers and business advisors who have guided clients from startup, to scale-up, to exit. The trust of our clients has enabled us to consistently rank at the top of every major Canadian M&A, Capital Markets and Venture Capital league table. With deep industry knowledge and experience across all areas of emerging and high growth technology including ClimateTech, MedTech, Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, and AgTech we’re your partners within the innovation ecosystem as you transform the landscape of what’s possible.Tomorrow starts here. Own it with us.For more information, visit fasken.com/emergingtech and follow us on LinkedIn.The Founder’s Journey & Imposter Syndrome (00:09:41)* “Scaling Your Everest”: the emotional toll of leadership* Facing imposter syndrome in boardrooms* Anthony Lacavera’s hard advice: “You don’t know what you’re doing.”* How that painful truth became a turning pointFrom Go-To-Market to AI Strategy (00:16:00)* Consulting with Series A/B startups on GTM and sales* Transition to AI after dozens of founder conversations* Why most OKRs fail: objectives must tie directly to long-term strategy* Introducing a new framework rooted in “Seven Powers” by Hamilton HelmerBuilding ZeroStone AI (00:22:22)* Founding mission: help mid-market firms (>$50M revenue) unlock real AI value* Observing 300+ executive discussions on AI, awareness high, action low* Why cultural and digital transformations must happen together* Moving beyond “copilots” to autonomous, agentic AI systemsThe AI Leadership Gap (00:24:27)* Boards push for AI results, but internal teams lack clarity* “You need both a data transformation and a human capital transformation.”* The rise of self-selecting teams, who adapts, who opts out* Building cultures of learning, not fearWhy 95% of GenAI Pilots Fail (00:31:16)* Most projects don’t touch core business processes* Generative AI ≠ Agentic AI: only the latter changes workflows* AI agents as “digital workers” vs. human productivity tools* How CEOs can start small, measure impact, and scale over three yearsOvercoming the Pilot Trap (00:36:30)* Scaling beyond sandboxes by fixing data architecture* The critical role of clean data lakes, enrichment, and governance* Why early-stage companies move faster than legacy enterprisesAbout James BaskinFounder & CEO of Zero Stone AIA three-time founder with successful exits, James is a seasoned expert in go-to-market strategy, OKRs, and sales leadership. Through ZeroStone AI, he is now guiding mid-market companies to unlock true, measurable value from agentic AI, moving beyond failed pilots to autonomous systems that transform businesses.Connect with James Baskin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesbaskin/Visit the ZeroStone AI Website: https://www.zerostone.ai/Connect with Matt Cohen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matt-cohen1Visit the Ripple Ventures website: https://www.rippleventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tanktalks.substack.com

In this episode of Tank Talks, Matt Cohen and John Ruffolo break down the latest developments in U.S.-Canada trade negotiations, particularly around tariffs and energy, with insights into how these pressures could shape future relationships.The conversation shifts to the growing energy demands of AI, as Matt and John explore how both the U.S. and China are navigating energy needs, and whether Canada could play a more significant role. They also analyze NVIDIA’s $110 billion vendor financing strategy, drawing comparisons to the telecom bubble, and discuss the growing risks in data center financing. With the IPO of Fair Me America, they examine how the market is reacting to tech companies with no assets but huge valuations. A packed episode full of fresh insights on the intersection of tech, politics, and business.A Quick Word from our Sponsor, FaskenAt Fasken, our clients don’t wait for the future. They build it. As the first and largest dedicated emerging tech practice in Canada, our team is composed of founders, ex in-house counsel, developers and business advisors who have guided clients from startup, to scale-up, to exit. The trust of our clients has enabled us to consistently rank at the top of every major Canadian M&A, Capital Markets and Venture Capital league table. With deep industry knowledge and experience across all areas of emerging and high growth technology including ClimateTech, MedTech, Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, and AgTech we’re your partners within the innovation ecosystem as you transform the landscape of what’s possible.Tomorrow starts here. Own it with us.For more information, visit fasken.com/emergingtech and follow us on LinkedIn.US-Canada Relations & Trump’s Tariff Strategy (04:28)Matt and John discuss the ongoing negotiations between Mark Carney and President Trump regarding trade policies, tariffs, and key sectors like steel, aluminum, and energy. Can Canada withstand the pressure, or will it need to change its approach?The Energy Battle Between the US and China (09:03)What role does energy play in geopolitics? Matt and John explore how both the US and China are navigating their energy needs, and why Canada has lost some of its leverage as the world’s energy supply game changes.NVIDIA’s Vendor Financing Playbook: Lessons from Lucent & Nortel (11:18)John shares a deep dive into how NVIDIA’s vendor financing strategy mirrors the mistakes made during the telecom bubble, drawing parallels to the strategies employed by Lucent and Nortel. What’s the risk when revenues are tied to customers who may never pay?AI, Data Centers, and the Future of Technology (17:20)From the massive energy demands of AI to the rise of private equity-backed data centers, Matt and John dissect the latest AI and GPU investments and how the industry’s future could be shaped by companies like Meta and OpenAI.The “Yellowstone Club” of Hyperscalers (20:26)The two discuss the bizarre world of hyperscalers and REITs, looking at how some data center startups are getting massive valuations without any real assets or revenue, and what this means for the future of tech investments.Bezos Weighs In on the AI Bubble (25:12)Jeff Bezos surprises everyone with his thoughts on the AI industry, calling it an “industrial bubble” rather than a financial one, and analyzing the disconnect between massive investments and real-world returns.Connect with John Ruffolo on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/joruffoloConnect with Matt Cohen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matt-cohen1Visit the Ripple Ventures website: https://www.rippleventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tanktalks.substack.com

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen is joined by John Ruffolo to dive deep into the rapidly evolving AI landscape, its economic ramifications, and Canada’s growing potential as a global tech leader. They discuss pivotal topics, such as energy challenges in AI infrastructure, the rise of AI tokenization, and the impact of government policies on the sector. With a focus on the future of tech, investments, and the role of Canada, this episode offers an insightful look at where the industry is headed.A Quick Word from our Sponsor, FaskenAt Fasken, our clients don’t wait for the future. They build it. As the first and largest dedicated emerging tech practice in Canada, our team is composed of founders, ex in-house counsel, developers and business advisors who have guided clients from startup, to scale-up, to exit. The trust of our clients has enabled us to consistently rank at the top of every major Canadian M&A, Capital Markets and Venture Capital league table. With deep industry knowledge and experience across all areas of emerging and high growth technology including ClimateTech, MedTech, Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, and AgTech we’re your partners within the innovation ecosystem as you transform the landscape of what’s possible.Tomorrow starts here. Own it with us.For more information, visit fasken.com/emergingtech and follow us on LinkedIn.AI Energy Demands & Canada’s Opportunity (00:04:39)John and Matt discuss the massive demand for compute power in AI and Canada’s potential to lead by meeting these energy needs. They highlight the importance of matching energy capacity with data center development to become a global tech leader.The AI CapEx Boom and the Trillion-Dollar Question (00:07:05)The discussion shifts to the booming capital expenditures in AI, with a particular focus on the rising costs of building AI infrastructure and whether this growth is sustainable in the long term.Canada’s AI Strategy and Sovereign Identity (00:14:21)The conversation turns to Canada’s AI strategy, with a task force focusing on innovation, research, and talent retention. John shares his thoughts on the potential challenges and opportunities for Canada in becoming a key player in the AI space.The SEC’s Push for Tokenization in the U.S. (00:19:33)The episode also delves into the SEC’s efforts to allow the tokenization of stocks and what this could mean for the financial industry and blockchain adoption.Connect with John Ruffolo on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/joruffoloConnect with Matt Cohen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matt-cohen1Visit the Ripple Ventures website: https://www.rippleventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tanktalks.substack.com

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen is joined by John Ruffolo to discuss pivotal developments shaping Canada’s economy and tech industry. They cover a range of topics, from Canada’s immigration policies in light of changes to the U.S. H1-B visa program to the evolving AI landscape and its economic implications. John provides insights on how Canada could leverage these immigration shifts to attract global talent, while exploring the risks of inflated AI valuations and the potential for an AI bubble.The conversation also delves into the rising vendor financing model in AI, which could contribute to market instability, and examines whether the massive investments in AI infrastructure are sustainable. John reflects on the challenges facing Canadian companies, including the latest news from Constellation Software and its founder, Mark Leonard’s resignation. Together, they explore how AI and its financial impact may create headwinds for established companies while offering opportunities for the Canadian tech sector to emerge as a global leader.A Quick Word from our Sponsor, FaskenAt Fasken, our clients don’t wait for the future. They build it. As the first and largest dedicated emerging tech practice in Canada, our team is composed of founders, ex in-house counsel, developers and business advisors who have guided clients from startup, to scale-up, to exit. The trust of our clients has enabled us to consistently rank at the top of every major Canadian M&A, Capital Markets and Venture Capital league table. With deep industry knowledge and experience across all areas of emerging and high growth technology including ClimateTech, MedTech, Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, and AgTech we’re your partners within the innovation ecosystem as you transform the landscape of what’s possible.Tomorrow starts here. Own it with us.For more information, visit fasken.com/emergingtech and follow us on LinkedIn.AI CapEx Bubble: A Growing Concern (07:30)The conversation shifts to the massive capital expenditures in AI, with John analyzing the risks associated with overbuilding data center infrastructure and the possibility of a tech bubble.Vendor Financing in AI: A Dot-Com Repeat? (09:52)John draws parallels between current AI financing models and the early 2000s dot-com bubble, exploring whether companies are overexposed in the AI sector.The Future of AI Valuations (15:04)An in-depth discussion on the risks of inflated AI company valuations and the potential economic fallout.Canada’s Immigration Advantage: H1-B Visa Adjustments (18:12)John and Matt discuss the implications of recent changes to the U.S. H1-B visa program and how Canada could use this shift to attract top talent.Constellation Software: A Transition and the Role of AI (27:09)John reflects on the recent news of Mark Leonard’s resignation from Constellation Software and what this means for the company, especially in light of AI-driven changes.Connect with John Ruffolo on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/joruffoloConnect with Matt Cohen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matt-cohen1Visit the Ripple Ventures website: https://www.rippleventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tanktalks.substack.com

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen sits down with Nejeed Kassam, a serial founder, investor, and advocate for positive change. With a journey that spans from launching his first business as a teenager to scaling and selling Keela, a CRM for nonprofits, Nejeed’s experience offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs, especially those navigating the challenges of building tech-driven impact companies.Nejeed shares his entrepreneurial beginnings, the lessons he learned growing Keela, and the challenges he faced when taking on external funding. He also discusses his new venture, Rewire Digital Therapeutics, an AI-powered mental health company using gamification to help users manage depression and anxiety.From scaling Keela to navigating a successful exit, Nejeed dives into his journey and the key principles he follows in his entrepreneurial endeavors. Whether you’re interested in nonprofit tech, mental health, or financial literacy, Nejeed’s story provides inspiration and practical wisdom.A Quick Word from our Sponsor, FaskenAt Fasken, our clients don’t wait for the future. They build it. As the first and largest dedicated emerging tech practice in Canada, our team is composed of founders, ex in-house counsel, developers and business advisors who have guided clients from startup, to scale-up, to exit. The trust of our clients has enabled us to consistently rank at the top of every major Canadian M&A, Capital Markets and Venture Capital league table. With deep industry knowledge and experience across all areas of emerging and high growth technology including ClimateTech, MedTech, Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, and AgTech we’re your partners within the innovation ecosystem as you transform the landscape of what’s possible.Tomorrow starts here. Own it with us.For more information, visit fasken.com/emergingtech and follow us on LinkedIn.Nejeed’s Early Entrepreneurial Beginnings (08:12)* Starting a business at 14 with his brothers in Vancouver* Learning from early failures and the importance of sales in businessScaling Keela and the Path to Acquisition (15:17)* The journey from building Keela as a side hustle to scaling it into a successful company* The decision-making process behind bringing in external capital and navigating an exit* Insights on the acquisition process and private equity rollupsRewire Digital Therapeutics: Tackling Mental Health with AI (25:34)* How Nejeed’s personal experiences with mental health drove him to create Rewire* Leveraging AI and gamification to address mental health issues like depression and anxiety* The future of digital therapeutics and its potential to impact millionsFinancial Literacy: Teaching Kids Money Management (35:11)* How Nejeed teaches his kids about financial literacy* Building the financial literacy platform, Snowball 72, and its impact on Gen Z and Gen Alpha* The importance of creating safe, accessible financial learning environmentsNejeed’s Lessons on Building Impactful Businesses (45:23)* The importance of staying committed to solving meaningful problems* Building businesses that balance profit with positive societal impact* The role of resilience and discomfort in entrepreneurshipAbout Nejeed KassamNejeed Kassam is a serial entrepreneur, author, and advocate for positive change. He co-founded Keela, a CRM for nonprofits, which he successfully scaled and sold in 2024. He is now co-founder of Rewire Digital Therapeutics, a company focused on using AI and gamification to help people manage mental health issues like depression and anxiety. In addition to his work in tech, Nejeed is passionate about financial literacy and has launched Snowball 72, a platform aimed at teaching the next generation about money management. Nejeed’s entrepreneurial spirit is driven by his desire to solve real-world problems and make a meaningful impact on society.Connect with Nejeed Kassam on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nejeed/Visit the Keela website: https://www.keela.co/Visit the Rewire Digital Therapeutics website: https://rewiredigitaltherapeutics.com/Connect with Matt Cohen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matt-cohen1Visit the Ripple Ventures website: https://www.rippleventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tanktalks.substack.com

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen is joined by Christian Weedbrook, Founder and CEO of Xanadu, a groundbreaking Canadian company leading the charge in photonic quantum computing. With over $250 million raised, Xanadu is on track to revolutionize industries through its cutting-edge quantum technologies.Christian discusses his transition from academia to entrepreneurship, the challenges of building a quantum company, and the potential for quantum computing to reshape industries like AI, drug discovery, and materials science. He shares his insights on Canada’s role in the future of quantum tech, how quantum’s “ChatGPT moment” will likely change the game, and why error correction is the key to scalable quantum applications.Christian also dives into Xanadu’s ambitious plans for a quantum data center in Toronto, aiming to leverage room-temperature photonic computing to create the world’s first fault-tolerant quantum computing environment by 2029. From AI-driven innovation to material science breakthroughs, this episode is packed with insights on how the future of computing is being redefined.A Quick Word from our Sponsor, FaskenAt Fasken, our clients don’t wait for the future. They build it. As the first and largest dedicated emerging tech practice in Canada, our team is composed of founders, ex in-house counsel, developers and business advisors who have guided clients from startup, to scale-up, to exit. The trust of our clients has enabled us to consistently rank at the top of every major Canadian M&A, Capital Markets and Venture Capital league table. With deep industry knowledge and experience across all areas of emerging and high growth technology including ClimateTech, MedTech, Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, and AgTech we’re your partners within the innovation ecosystem as you transform the landscape of what's possible.Tomorrow starts here. Own it with us.For more information, visit fasken.com/emergingtech and follow us on LinkedIn.Christian’s Journey from Quantum Physics to Entrepreneurial Vision (08:15)* The transition from academia to founding Xanadu.* Early quantum research and turning theory into a business.Quantum's "ChatGPT Moment" (13:10)* How quantum computing’s breakthrough will mirror AI’s rise.* The promise of quantum in industries like AI and drug discovery.The Challenges of Quantum Capital and Investment (16:20)* The hurdles of fundraising and dealing with investors unfamiliar with quantum technology.Xanadu's Recent Breakthrough in Photonic Error Correction (18:47)* How solving error correction will pave the way for real-world quantum applications.* Quantum advantage in practical settings.Canada’s Advantage in Quantum and Xanadu's Global Impact (22:01)* Why Christian chose to build Xanadu in Toronto.* How Canada can lead the quantum revolution and avoid the pitfalls faced by the AI sector.The Future of Quantum Chemistry and Material Science (39:10)* The role of quantum computing in next-gen battery and solar cell development.* Why quantum chemistry is the next big frontier.About Christian WeedbrookChristian Weedbrook is the Founder and CEO of Xanadu, a leading quantum computing company based in Toronto, specializing in photonic quantum technologies. With a PhD in quantum computing, Christian has held postdoctoral positions at MIT and the University of Toronto, contributing to groundbreaking work in the field. He founded Xanadu in 2016, aiming to make quantum computing scalable and commercially viable. Under his leadership, the company has raised over $250 million and is on track to build the world’s first fault-tolerant quantum data center by 2029. Christian is dedicated to positioning Canada as a global leader in quantum computing and helping to unlock its potential across industries like AI, drug discovery, and material science.Connect with Christian Weedbrook on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christianweedbrook/Visit the Xanadu website: https://www.xanadu.ai/Connect with Matt Cohen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matt-cohen1Visit the Ripple Ventures website: https://www.rippleventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tanktalks.substack.com

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen is joined by John Ruffolo to dive into a wide range of topics affecting Canada’s economy, from energy and tech to blockchain. They discuss the government’s announcement of major projects like LNG Canada’s expansion and the critical need for nuclear energy. The conversation also touches on Canada's role in the global energy market, especially with the growing importance of renewables and the challenges of balancing carbon-based energy.The episode shifts to AI and blockchain, exploring how Canada can stay competitive in the tech race. They also dive into the rise of stablecoins in Canada with Tetra Digital Group’s new Canadian peg stablecoin aimed at transforming B2B payments. Lastly, the episode examines the increasing presence of Canadian executives in U.S. tech companies and the risks of overvaluation in the AI startup space.A Quick Word from our Sponsor, FaskenAt Fasken, our clients don’t wait for the future. They build it. As the first and largest dedicated emerging tech practice in Canada, our team is composed of founders, ex in-house counsel, developers and business advisors who have guided clients from startup, to scale-up, to exit. The trust of our clients has enabled us to consistently rank at the top of every major Canadian M&A, Capital Markets and Venture Capital league table. With deep industry knowledge and experience across all areas of emerging and high growth technology including ClimateTech, MedTech, Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, and AgTech we’re your partners within the innovation ecosystem as you transform the landscape of what's possible.Tomorrow starts here. Own it with us.For more information, visit fasken.com/emergingtech and follow us on LinkedIn.LNG, Nuclear & Energy Future: Canada’s Next Big Steps (00:07:13)Matt and John discuss the announcement of major energy projects in Canada, including LNG Canada’s expansion and the importance of investing in nuclear energy for the future.Stablecoin Innovation: The Canadian Peg Stablecoin (00:15:01)Tetra Digital Group in Calgary launches a Canadian peg stablecoin set to revolutionize B2B payments. John and Matt explore how it could impact Canada’s financial landscape.Opendoor's New CEO: Canadian Leadership in U.S. Tech (00:18:25)Opendoor appoints a Canadian executive as CEO, sparking a conversation about the growing influence of Canadian tech talent in major U.S. companies.AI Valuations: Are We Heading for a Tech Crash? (00:25:39)With the AI boom in full swing, Matt and John examine the potential for overvaluation and the risks of an AI bubble, echoing insights from Vinod Khosla on market “carnage.”AI’s Future: Innovation or Overhype? (00:26:15)Matt and John delve into the power law of investing, discussing how capital is flowing into AI and why only a few companies will win big while many others will fail.Connect with John Ruffolo on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/joruffoloConnect with Matt Cohen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matt-cohen1Visit the Ripple Ventures website: https://www.rippleventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tanktalks.substack.com

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen sits down with Nikunj Kothari, Partner at FPV Ventures, to explore his journey from product leader at LinkedIn, Opendoor, and Meter to early-stage investor. Nikunj shares candid insights on why the best companies thrive under benevolent dictatorships, how AI is reshaping SaaS pricing models, and what makes founders truly exceptional.From his early years growing up in India to becoming one of the most thoughtful voices in venture, Nikunj opens up about his decision to leave operating roles, his angel investing beginnings, and his transition to VC at storied firm Khosla Ventures before joining FPV. He also dives deep into evaluating founders, navigating hypergrowth, and why outcome-based pricing may define the next decade of SaaS.Whether you’re a founder looking to scale, an investor trying to spot the next breakout company, or simply curious about how AI is rewriting business models, this episode is packed with hard-earned lessons and bold ideas.A Quick Word from our Sponsor, FaskenAt Fasken, our clients don’t wait for the future. They build it. As the first and largest dedicated emerging tech practice in Canada, our team is composed of founders, ex in-house counsel, developers and business advisors who have guided clients from startup, to scale-up, to exit. The trust of our clients has enabled us to consistently rank at the top of every major Canadian M&A, Capital Markets and Venture Capital league table. With deep industry knowledge and experience across all areas of emerging and high growth technology including ClimateTech, MedTech, Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, and AgTech we’re your partners within the innovation ecosystem as you transform the landscape of what's possible.Tomorrow starts here. Own it with us.For more information, visit fasken.com/emergingtech and follow us on LinkedIn.From India to Silicon Valley: Nikunj’s Early Journey (00:08:21)How his blend of engineering, design, and business led him to product management at LinkedIn and startups.Learning From Hypergrowth at LinkedIn and Opendoor (00:011:23)Why talent density and ambitious missions drive scaling organizations.The Investor’s Lens: Spotting Latitude in Founders (00:013:32)Nikunj’s framework for evaluating founder vision and depth at the earliest stages.Why the Best Companies Are Benevolent Dictatorships (00:015:39)How companies like Shopify and Coinbase thrive under strong, opinionated leaders.The Tension for Non-Founders in Dictatorship Environments (00:21:09)Nikunj’s personal lessons as a PM executing a founder’s vision.The Pivot to Investing: From Angel Checks to Khosla Ventures (00:23:26)Why he left operating roles, and what he had to unlearn as he became a VC.Joining FPV Ventures and Betting on Founder POVs (00:27:18)How FPV approaches concentrated early-stage investing with diligence and conviction.Gross Margins, Kingmaking, and the VC Trap (00:32:09)Why focusing on revenue quality matters more than chasing top-line growth.AI and the Future of SaaS Pricing Models (00:39:31)How outcome-based and usage-based pricing will disrupt per-seat SaaS models.Navigating Enterprise AI Adoption (00:44:22)The role of champions in enterprise sales and lessons from scar tissue in early adoption.Competing in Crowded Markets: The Series A Challenge (00:47:31)Why exceptional founders and market depth matter more than being first.Hot Takes: Solo Founders in the AI Era and the Future of IPOs (00:54:24)Nikunj’s contrarian views on solo founders and whether Canva will go public.About Nikunj KothariNikunj Kothari is a Partner at FPV Ventures, where he focuses on early-stage investments with a founder-first approach. Previously, he was a product leader at LinkedIn, Opendoor, and Meter, where he helped scale hypergrowth startups and navigate tough product challenges. Nikunj began angel investing while at Opendoor and later joined Khosla Ventures, before moving to FPV to pursue concentrated, high-conviction seed and Series A investments. Known for his sharp writing on venture and product strategy, Nikunj has become a leading voice on topics ranging from benevolent dictatorships to the future of SaaS pricing.Connect with Nikunj Kothari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikunjkVisit the FPV Ventures website: https://fpvventures.com/Connect with Matt Cohen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matt-cohen1Visit the Ripple Ventures website: https://www.rippleventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tanktalks.substack.com