
Machine Minds
Machine Minds - the minds behind the machines! This is the show where we dive deep into the intricate worlds of robotics, AI, and Hard Tech. In each episode, we bring you intimate conversations with the founders, investors, and trailblazers who are at the heart of these tech revolutions. We dig into their journeys, the challenges they've overcome, and the breakthroughs that are shaping our future. Join us as we explore how these machine minds are transforming the way we live, work, and understand our world.
Latest episodes

Dec 6, 2024 • 50min
Episode 73 | Innovating Body Sculpting with AI & Robotics | Dennis Ledenkof & Yelena Kormilina
In this episode, I speak with Dennis Ledenkof, founder and CEO of RoboSculptor, and Yelena Kormilina, Head of International Projects at RoboSculptor. They’re pioneering a new frontier where wellness, aesthetics, and robotics converge, delivering what was once a manual, human-driven experience—body sculpting and therapeutic massage treatments—through advanced, AI-powered robotic systems.We discuss the origin story behind RoboSculptor, how Dennis’s experience in the wellness industry influenced the idea to use robotic arms for vibrational compression therapy, and how Yelena’s background helped shape the product’s global strategy. We delve into the challenges of developing a device that not only applies complex massage techniques but does so safely, efficiently, and consistently—reliably scanning a patient’s body, adjusting to movement, and following precise protocols.You’ll learn about the team’s approach to building a machine that reduces the reliance on scarce labor, ensuring that treatments can be delivered anytime, anywhere, while also capturing meaningful data to fine-tune and personalize sessions. We also explore their plans for global deployment, their initial focus in markets like the UAE and Europe, and the broader potential for this technology to transform the spa, wellness, and even medical therapy landscape.Whether you’re intrigued by new robotic applications, curious about the future of wellness and aesthetics, or looking for insights on how advanced technology can improve traditional human-centered services, this conversation shines a light on what’s coming next. Join me as I learn how RoboSculptor aims to reshape our understanding of body treatments and unlock a new era of wellness possibilities.------Connect with me on LinkedIn:linkedin.com/in/gregtoroosian

Dec 4, 2024 • 56min
Episode 72 | Reality Capture & AI-Powered Analytics For Building | Jeevan Kalanithi
In this episode of Machine Minds, Greg sits down with Jeevan, co-founder of Open Space, an innovative company dedicated to computer vision technology. Jeevan shares his fascinating professional journey, from his beginnings to the creation of Open Space, where his team focuses on solving complex problems through advanced technological solutions.During the conversation, Greg and Jeevan delve into the challenges they faced while establishing the company, the lessons learned along the way, and the key moments that shaped their vision. They also explore the uniqueness of Open Space's technology and how they are redefining the landscape in their industry.They also discuss the importance of team dynamics and the qualities that Jeevan looks for when building his team. With a focus on both speed and meticulous selection, he shares valuable insights on how to foster a collaborative and innovative work environment that drives success.Don't miss this inspiring conversation filled with insights on entrepreneurship, innovation, and the future of technology. Join us and discover more about Jeevan's journey and his impactful work at Open Space!01:29 Jeevan’s journey.06:32 Founding Open Space17:16 Challenges of the company.26:02 What makes Open Space different40:02 Qualities to look for when hiring46:02 Prioritizing speed or meticulousness when building a team.49:25 Upcoming projects, innovations and technology to be excited about53:16 Advice to younger self More about OpenSpacehttps://www.linkedin.com/company/openspace.ai/More about our guest https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeevan/Machine Minds:Apple Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast..Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1apGh7x... Google Podcast: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0...YouTube: / @machinemindsshow Let’s connect on social media: IG: / machinemindsshow LinkedIn: / gregtoroosian

Nov 28, 2024 • 50min
Episode 71 | Accelerating Robot Adoption | Dale Walsh
In this episode of Machine Minds, we welcome Dale Walsh, the Vice President of Strategy and Innovation at Roboworx. The show dives deep into the fascinating intersection of technology and humanity, exploring the intricate world of robotics and artificial intelligence.Roboworx is a relatively new brand that emerged from a robust support background in robotics, has been dedicated to providing specialised services for robots for about three years. The company focuses exclusively on the maintenance, repair, and support of robotic systems, distinguishing itself from other service providers that may offer a broader range of equipment. Dale Walsh, with nearly three decades of experience in the industry, particularly in automation and innovation, brings a wealth of knowledge to the discussion. His journey includes significant roles at Ricoh, where he was instrumental in developing robotics practices to meet the growing demand for automation in various sectors.Throughout the episode, Dale shares insights about his unique lifestyle as a full-time RVer, his career trajectory, and the innovative approaches Roboworx employs to address the challenges faced by robotic technologies in the market today.02:44 Dale’s journey21:12 Figuring out your pricing and business model30:03 Skills to look for when hiring39:28 Trends and upcoming technologies to be excited about44:38 Challenges that the industry might be facing in the next five to ten years48:02 Advice for our listeners that might be aspiring to lead in strategy and innovation.48:50 Where to find RoboworxMore about Roboworxhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/roboworx-management/More about our guesthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/adwalsh/Machine Minds:Apple Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast..Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1apGh7x... Google Podcast: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0...YouTube: / @machinemindsshow Let’s connect on social media: IG: / machinemindsshow LinkedIn: / gregtoroosian

Nov 22, 2024 • 44min
Episode 70 | Simplifying Data Complexity for Engineers | Austin Spiegel
In this episode of Machine Minds, I sat down with Austin Spiegel, the CTO of SIFT. Austin shared his journey from working at companies like SpaceX and Riot Games to co-founding SIFT, a platform that simplifies data complexity for engineers working with hardware sensor data.We discussed how his experiences at SpaceX and Riot Games influenced his approach to building teams and solving complex problems. Austin explained how SIFT is helping companies in aerospace and other industries by providing an observability platform tailored for hardware engineers, enabling faster and more reliable product development.We also talked about the challenges of building a startup, hiring the right talent, and the importance of being product-oriented. Austin offered valuable insights into the future of hardware development and how tools like SIFT are accelerating innovation.If you're interested in hardware engineering, data analytics, or the intersection of software and complex hardware systems, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge from someone who's been at the forefront of these industries.More about our guest:https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-spiegel------Connect with me on LinkedIn:linkedin.com/in/gregtoroosian

Nov 21, 2024 • 51min
Episode 69 | Automating Architectural Review with AI | Dave DeCaprio
In this episode of the Machine Minds Show, host Greg welcomes Dave DiCaprio, the CTO of MBUE, to discuss the intersection of technology and innovation in the field of artificial intelligence. The conversation begins with Dave sharing his impressive journey through various industries, including his pivotal moments that led him to his current role at MBUE.Throughout the episode, Greg and Dave delve into the challenges and opportunities within the AI landscape, particularly focusing on the innovative machine learning techniques employed by MBUE. They explore the importance of understanding industry-specific metrics for success and the necessity of adapting to the rapidly changing technological environment.Dave emphasizes the significance of defining problems in a way that allows for diverse technological solutions, advocating for a flexible approach to problem-solving that leverages both cutting-edge AI models and traditional methods. The discussion also touches on the current state of the AI industry, addressing the hype surrounding AI technologies and the reality of over-promising and under-delivering.Listeners will gain valuable insights into the future of AI, the importance of team dynamics in tech startups, and the strategic considerations for building a successful technology company in a competitive landscape. This episode is a must-watch for entrepreneurs, tech enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the transformative power of AI.Join us as we explore how machine minds are shaping our future and the exciting developments on the horizon for MBUE and the broader AI industry.00:01:18 - Dave’s journey and pivotal moments.00:07:53 - Past Roles and insights.00:09:17 - Advice for founders.00:19:13 - The idea of creating startups with a view of being acquired by a big player. 00:20:36 - The core tech behind MBU.00:25:51 - Team dynamics.00:31:52 - Internships.00:40:02 - Over promising and under delivering.00:46:37 – Where is AI and the robotics industry heading?More about Mbue https://www.linkedin.com/company/mbue/More about our guesthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/davedecaprio/Machine Minds:Apple Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast..Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1apGh7x... Google Podcast: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0...YouTube: / @machinemindsshow Let’s connect on social media: IG: / machinemindsshow LinkedIn: / gregtoroosian

Nov 16, 2024 • 54min
Episode 68 | Interactive AI Humans & Robotics | Artem Rodichev
In this episode of Machine Minds, I had a conversation with Artem Rodichev, the founder and CEO of Ex-human. Artem shared his journey from being the Head of AI at Replika to launching Ex-human, a platform that's transforming how we interact with AI by creating empathetic digital characters.He discussed how movies like "Her" and "Blade Runner 2049" inspired him to envision a future where humans can build deep emotional connections with AI. Artem explained the limitations he observed at Replika and how they motivated him to create a more versatile and scalable platform with Ex-human.Artem described how Ex-human allows users to create millions of unique characters with distinct backstories and personalities, enabling highly engaging and emotionally intelligent interactions. He talked about the technology behind this, including how user data creates a powerful feedback loop that continually improves the authenticity of these digital characters.We also addressed important ethical considerations, such as the impact of empathetic AI on society and the importance of safety measures, especially when it comes to younger users.If you're interested in the future of AI, the development of empathetic digital humans, or the ethical implications of these advancements, this episode offers valuable insights from someone at the forefront of this exciting field.More about our guest:linkedin.com/in/art-rodichev------Connect with me on LinkedIn:linkedin.com/in/gregtoroosian

Nov 13, 2024 • 39min
Episode 67 | Super Powered Business Content With AI | Rolan Reichel
In this episode of Machine Minds, we sit down with Rolan Reichel, the CEO and founder of Arrow AI, a company dedicated to empowering small businesses through automated content marketing solutions. The conversation delves into Rolan's entrepreneurial journey, the inception of Arrow AI, and the challenges faced in the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence.Arrow AI was founded on two key insights: the need for small businesses to enhance their online presence and the challenges they face in navigating the complex advertising ecosystem. Rolan explains how the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the demand for businesses to establish a credible online persona, which is now as crucial as their offline presence. Arrow AI addresses this need by automating content creation for social media, blogs, and Google business profiles, allowing businesses to tell their stories and engage with potential customers effectively.Throughout the episode, Rolan shares success stories, including how Arrow AI helped a veteran-owned toy company significantly increase its online engagement and revenue by automating their social media presence. He emphasizes the importance of combining AI technology with human expertise, ensuring that all content is reviewed by a team of content specialists before being published.Listeners will gain insights into the future of AI in business, the role of freelancers in the evolving workforce, and the ethical considerations surrounding AI technology. Rolan also discusses Arrow AI's upcoming self-serve tool for freelancers and the company's commitment to building a supportive community for content creators.Join us for an enlightening discussion on how Arrow AI is transforming the way small businesses approach content marketing and the exciting future of AI-driven solutions.01:29 Rolan’s journey04:04 Experiences that influenced Rolan's path?09:16 Arrow AI function 13:01 Thoughts on the ethical side of the use of AI?19:11 Overcoming hurdles24:10 Significant milestones to share31:12 Teamwork36:03 Future trendsMore about Arrow AIhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/get-arrow-ai/More about our guesthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/rolanreichel/Machine Minds:Apple Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast..Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1apGh7x... Google Podcast: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0...

Nov 8, 2024 • 46min
Episode 66 | Advancements in Building Management Technology | Paul Manwell
In this episode of Machine Minds, I sit down with Paul Manwell, the founder and CEO of TC Labs. Paul shares his journey from his early days in consulting and his impactful tenure at Google to taking the leap into entrepreneurship. We explore how his diverse experiences have shaped his approach to tackling complex problems in the industrial sector.Paul explains how TC Labs is using advanced analytics and AI to address significant challenges in large-scale industrial facilities. We discuss the importance of improving efficiency in industries like steel, cement, and refining, which are major contributors to global emissions. Paul sheds light on how TC Labs is helping these industries optimize operations, reduce costs, and enhance safety by turning vast amounts of unstructured data into meaningful insights.We delve into the hurdles of starting a company focused on such a critical and complex area, including the challenges of finding the right early customers and building a team with the unique mix of skills required. Paul emphasizes the need for team members who not only excel in their fields but also understand the intricacies of industrial operations.Paul also shares his thoughts on the future of AI and its role in solving climate challenges. He offers a glimpse into what's next for TC Labs, including plans to emerge from stealth mode and rebrand in the coming months.If you're interested in how technology can drive significant improvements in traditional industries or how AI and data analytics can play a pivotal role in addressing climate change, this episode offers valuable insights from someone at the forefront of these advancements.More about our guest:linkedin.com/in/paul-manwell-8ab485------Connect with me on LinkedIn:linkedin.com/in/gregtoroosian

Nov 6, 2024 • 53min
Episode 65 | Smart Concrete, Sustainable World | Alex Hall
In this episode of Machine Minds, we sit down with Alex Hall, the innovative CEO of Concrete AI. Join us as we dive into the transformative world of construction technology and explore how AI is reshaping the industry.Alex shares his unique career journey, detailing the challenges and triumphs of launching a startup in a traditionally slow-to-adopt sector. We discuss the cutting-edge technology behind Concrete AI, its integration with existing systems, and how it empowers companies of all sizes to optimize their operations.Throughout the conversation, Greg and Alex tackle pressing issues such as job displacement due to automation, the importance of sustainability in construction, and the future of leadership in tech-driven environments. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a construction professional, or simply curious about the intersection of AI and industry, this episode offers valuable insights and thought-provoking discussions.Tune in to discover how Concrete AI is paving the way for a smarter, more efficient future in construction! Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments!01:15 Alex’s career path, leading to his role as CEO of Concrete AI.04:43 Concrete AI and how it evolved.10:18 Role of AI in optimizing concrete mixtures, and how it can help reduce carbon emissions.11:40 Challenges of starting a company in the construction industry.12:00 Convincing traditional construction firms to adopt new technologies.17:47 Avoiding pitfalls from over-promising and under-delivering.19:07 Handling the data-rich environment of concrete technology.25:19 Technology behind Concrete AI and how it integrates with existing systems.29:00 - Is Concrete AI accessible for all companies sizes? 30:44 - Communicating and collaborating effectively?36:19 - Balancing constant technological innovation with business milestones and customer needs.39:31 - Importance of environmental product declarations.46:04 - Concerns about job displacement due to AI and automation in the construction industry.More about Concrete.aihttps://www.concrete.ai/Machine Minds:Apple Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast..Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1apGh7x... Google Podcast: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0...YouTube: / @machinemindsshow Let’s con

Nov 1, 2024 • 37min
Episode 64 | Transforming Heavy Lifting Technology with Robotics | Hiten Sonpal
In this episode of Machine Minds, I had the pleasure of talking with Hiten Sonpal, the CEO of Rise Robotics. Hiten has had an incredible career in robotics and automation, starting from building his first chess-playing robot in college to working at iRobot on projects like the PackBot and the Roomba.We discussed how Rise Robotics is transforming heavy lifting technology by replacing traditional hydraulics with more energy-efficient belt-based actuators. Hiten explained how this innovation not only increases productivity but also has a significant impact on energy efficiency and climate change.We also delved into his leadership philosophy of "head, heart, hands," focusing on strategy, culture, and execution. Hiten shared insights on building effective teams, embracing change, and the importance of safety in robotics.If you're interested in robotics, automation, or leadership in tech, this episode is full of valuable insights. Listen in to hear how Hiten and Rise Robotics are shaping the future of heavy machinery and making a positive impact on the world.Website: http://www.riserobotics.comCommunity Round campaign: http://www.wefunder.com/riseroboticsMore about our guest:linkedin.com/in/hiten-sonpal------Connect with me on LinkedIn:linkedin.com/in/gregtoroosian
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