
"World of DaaS"
deep dive into Data-as-a-Service (DaaS) businesses. World of DaaS is a podcast for data enthusiasts, by data enthusiasts, where Auren Hoffman talks to business and technology leaders about all things data - building it, acquiring it, analyzing it, and everything in between.
Latest episodes

12 snips
May 13, 2025 • 54min
Exiger CEO Brandon Daniels - tariffs, tech, and trade
Brandon Daniels, CEO of Exiger, leads a firm specializing in AI-powered supply chain solutions. He discusses the chaotic impact of tariffs on global trade, emphasizing the importance of leveraging technology for transparency. The conversation includes challenges U.S. manufacturers face, particularly regarding China's influence. Daniels also highlights innovative AI-driven approaches to data validation and the advantages of establishing businesses in Washington, D.C., while playfully touching on societal perceptions of CEOs and broader life lessons.

8 snips
May 6, 2025 • 41min
Galvanick CEO Josh Steinman - spies, stuxnet, cyber, and securing critical infrastructure
Josh Steinman, CEO of Galvanick and former cybersecurity advisor at the National Security Council, shares captivating insights on foreign espionage in tech and the vulnerabilities of critical infrastructure. He discusses the impactful lessons from past cyber incidents like Stuxnet and emphasizes the urgency of enhancing resilience against cyberattacks. The conversation also touches on the complexities of cyber warfare, particularly in the context of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, and explores the risks posed by foreign technology in the U.S.

74 snips
Apr 29, 2025 • 49min
AppNexus Founder Brian O'Kelley - adtech, AI, advertising and more AI
Brian O'Kelley is the co-founder and former CEO of AppNexus, which built core infrastructure for programmatic advertising and was acquired by AT&T for $1.6 billion in 2018. He's now the co-founder and CEO of Scope3, a company working to reduce the carbon footprint in digital advertising.In this episode of World of DaaS, Brian and Auren discuss:The zero-sum game of auction paradigmsAI tools revolutionizing software developmentBuilding personal brands in techClimate tech's shifting business caseLooking for more tech, data and venture capital intel? Head to worldofdaas.com for our podcast, newsletter and events, and follow us on X @worldofdaas. You can find Auren Hoffman on X at @auren and Brian O’Kelley on X at @bokelley. Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com)

18 snips
Apr 22, 2025 • 50min
Anduril Co-Founder Trae Stephens - Hard Tech & Modern Defense Strategy
Trae Stephens, co-founder and executive chairman at Anduril and Partner at Founders Fund, dives into the evolving landscape of defense technology. He discusses the revolution in defense manufacturing and the vital role of billionaire founders in navigating government contracts. The conversation highlights the challenges of outsourcing and inefficiencies in traditional models. Trae also reflects on how technology influences relationships and community, advocating for deeper human connections amidst the rise of hard tech.

Apr 15, 2025 • 51min
Fmr Verisk CEO Scott Stephenson - building a $40 billion data company
Scott Stephenson is the former Chairman, President, and CEO of Verisk Analytics (NASDAQ: VRSK), where he led the company's transformation from a nonprofit insurance data collective into a global data analytics powerhouse with a market cap of over $40 billion.In this episode of World of DaaS, Scott and Auren discuss:Data monetization and defensibility strategiesAI's impact on data businessesLeadership succession in data companiesEffective board membershipLooking for more tech, data and venture capital intel? Head to worldofdaas.com for our podcast, newsletter and events, and follow us on X @worldofdaas. You can find Auren Hoffman on X at @auren and Scott Stephenson on Linkedin. Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com)

153 snips
Apr 8, 2025 • 50min
a16z’s Martin Casado - building with AI
In this engaging discussion, Martin Casado, General Partner at Andreessen Horowitz, shares insights from his extensive experience in AI and infrastructure. He dives into the economics of open-source AI and the rising competition between the U.S. and China in technology innovation. Martin also tackles the challenges of model collapse, the importance of data moats, and the evolving dynamics of SaaS investments with non-technical founders. The conversation highlights the complexities of integrating AI in business while navigating regulatory hurdles and user expectations.

57 snips
Apr 1, 2025 • 46min
Mediaocean CEO Bill Wise - building the operating system for advertising
Bill Wise, Co-founder and CEO of Mediaocean, leverages his extensive ad tech background to unravel the hidden plumbing of global advertising. He discusses the shift from linear TV to connected TV and challenges posed by measurement monopolies. Bill shares insights on navigating the complexities of ad tech and the importance of transparency and adaptability in the digital landscape. With a blend of humor, he also touches on unexpected topics like Uber ratings before diving into the balance between passion and practicality in career choices.

36 snips
Mar 25, 2025 • 51min
Rob Henderson - Luxury Beliefs: How Elites Exploit the Poor
Rob Henderson, a developmental psychologist and author of the bestselling book 'Troubled,' discusses thought-provoking ideas about how elites exploit the poor through luxury beliefs. He highlights the crucial role of marriage in enhancing social mobility and critiques the value of traditional college degrees. The conversation touches on the challenges faced by first-generation college students and the evolving dynamics of relationships in modern society. Additionally, Henderson emphasizes the need to reevaluate conventional wisdom and recognize opportunity costs for better decision-making.

Mar 18, 2025 • 48min
Lead Bank CEO Jackie Reses - fintech's regulatory reckoning: who survives, who thrives
Jackie Reses is the co-founder and CEO of Lead Bank, fintech infrastructure bank with over $2.5 billion in assets under management.In this episode of World of DaaS, Jackie and Auren discuss:Fintech's regulatory reckoningThe future of community bankingState regulator competitionLessons from Square's payment revolutionLeadership insights from Jack DorseyLooking for more tech, data and venture capital intel? Head to worldofdaas.com for our podcast, newsletter and events, and follow us on X @worldofdaas. You can find Auren Hoffman on X at @auren and Jackie Reses on X at @jackiereses.Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com)

26 snips
Mar 11, 2025 • 57min
Hello Patient CEO Alex Cohen - SaaS sprawl and meme culture
Join Alex Cohen as he unpacks the complexities of SaaS sprawl, revealing how too many tools can lead to hidden costs. Discover why specialized solutions often trump all-in-one platforms for efficiency. Dive into the future of healthcare with insights on data and personalized medicine. Alex also shares his evolution on social media, exploring the balance between personal branding and entrepreneurship. Lastly, learn how supplements can boost both physical and cognitive performance, full of personal anecdotes and practical tips.