Machine Minds

In this episode of Machine Minds, I meet with Mahesh Krishnamurthi, co-founder of Vayu Robotics, to take a deeper dive into how their innovative technology is shaping the future of delivery services. Mahesh walks us through his path from key roles at companies like Intel, Apple, and Lyft, through founding Vayu Robotics and diving headfirst into the world of autonomous delivery robots.We discuss the company's vision in creating safe, low-speed delivery robots; the technological breakthroughs that make their solution scalable yet safe; and the challenges along the way. Mahesh gives his view on how execution is the real differentiator, why team dynamics are important to focus on, and how they have applied cutting-edge simulations to overcome traditional problems of data collection. Further, we touch upon what more one could use this technology for, going ahead, and what the future looks like at Vayu Robotics.That's a jam-packed episode, filled with so much great insight for anyone interested in robotics, AI, or starting a company in a rapidly changing tech space.Timestamps:[02:30] Mahesh’s journey: From Intel, Apple, and Lyft to founding Vayu Robotics[06:40] Vayu Robotics: The vision and development of their delivery robots[11:50] Challenges faced as a startup and pivotal moments in the early stages[17:05] Technical breakthroughs: Vayu’s innovative sensor system and simulation-driven training[23:40] The importance of execution and team dynamics in a startup[28:50] Expanding applications for Vayu Robotics’ technology beyond delivery[32:15] The role of venture capital and lessons learned in raising funding[36:20] Building a team: Key qualities and finding potential in future talent[42:00] Leadership lessons from large companies to running a startup[46:45] Trends in AI and robotics that excite Mahesh[51:30] Vayu Robotics’ long-term vision and future goals[55:00] Ethical and safety considerations in autonomy and AI[57:30] Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and innovatorsMore about our guest:linkedin.com/in/mkrishnamurthi------Connect with me on LinkedIn:linkedin.com/in/gregtoroosian

In this episode of Machine Minds, we sit down with Michael Morin, the CEO of Boardwalk Robotics, a cutting-edge company revolutionising workplaces with humanoid robots. Michael takes us through his journey into the robotics world, starting in 2007, and the founding of Boardwalk Robotics in 2017. We dive deep into the development of Alex, their flagship humanoid, and how it’s being used to transform the aviation industry.Michael shares insights into the key technologies behind Alex and explores the roles humanoids could take on, freeing people from dangerous or mundane tasks. He also sheds light on what sets Boardwalk Robotics apart in the competitive humanoid market and provides valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to break into this exciting field.Tune in to hear about Michael’s career path, the future of humanoids, and what it takes to lead in this transformative industry.00:00 Machine Minds Show Introduction01:19 Michael's career path04:20 Boardwalk Robotics founding history07:04 The development of Alex10:55 Key technologies behind Alex12:30 Boardwalk Robotics headquarters16:20 Market difference from the others.18:08 Pilot programs and real world applications 21:18 What impact do you want Alex to have in the long term?25:46 The importance of hiring good team members 31:55 Qualities you look for when hiring38:36 What excites you most about the future?42:56 Advice for entrepreneurs More about Boardwalk Roboticshttps://www.linkedin.com/company/boardwalk-robotics/More about our guesthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/mijomo/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

In this episode of the Machine Minds podcast, we sit down with Manoj Bathia, Vice President of Strategic Alliance at a pioneering company dedicated to enhancing strategic consulting, leadership, and partnership management. With a wealth of experience in the telecommunications sector, including notable projects with Behavioral Signal Technologies, ASC Technologies, and Luminoso Technologies, Manoj shares his journey and passion for technology.Join us as Manoj delves into his early steps in the tech space, exploring the pivotal moments that ignited his interest in telecommunications and AI. He discusses his impactful roles, from leading alliances for voice recording compliance at ASC Technologies to advising on VoC analytics at Luminoso Technologies. We'll explore the latest trends in the industry, including the integration of AI in customer engagement and the importance of emotional intelligence in communication. What sets Manoj's technologies apart in a crowded market? Tune in to discover how his team's innovative AI-driven solutions are transforming customer interactions and bridging the communication gap in the digital age.00:00 Machine Minds Show Introduction01:20 Manoj’s journey02:36 The tech space 03:56 Key experiences05:26 Behavioural signals08:30 What led Manoj to join the company?18:34 Interactions through different languages25:57 Role responsibilities30:35 Trends that will impact the industry 38:01 The future of behavioural signals More about our guesthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/manojbhatianc/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

In this milestone episode of Machine Minds, I sit down with Carson Potter, Head of Product at AMP, to discuss how AMP is transforming the waste management industry with cutting-edge robotics and AI. Carson shares his journey from software and machine learning to his current role, where he integrates diverse technologies to tackle one of the world’s most persistent challenges—waste.Discover how AMP’s innovative approach is changing the game, from creating automated sorting solutions for material recovery facilities to building a scalable platform that reduces waste and increases recycling efficiency. Carson delves into the company’s mission of turning trash into cash by lowering the costs of recycling and making it more profitable to use recycled materials, all while improving labor conditions and reducing environmental impact.Whether you're interested in robotics, AI, or the future of sustainable waste management, this episode is packed with insights on how AMP is leading the charge toward a world without waste.More about AMP:We are AMP: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jae9i5U7Eg4 AMP ONE: Cleveland Case Study: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aiC-w-gl2FgTime Stamps01:30 Carson Potter’s Career Background and Path to AMP06:45 What AMP Does and How It’s Changing Waste Management12:00 The Challenges of Global Robotics Deployments17:25 AMP’s Technology Stack and Recent Innovations22:50 The Role of Product Management at AMP28:40 Trends in Robotics and AI that Excite Carson36:00 AMP’s Vision for a Greener Future

In this episode of the Machine Minds podcast, we sit down with Reza Rassool, Chair and CEO of Kwaai. Reza shares his remarkable journey from his family's struggles under apartheid, which led them to London, to his trailblazing career in technology and AI.Reza reflects on his diverse experience, including his roles at Real Network and as Chief Engineer at Micropolis, as well as his ventures into the biomedical field. He delves into the origins and mission of Kwaai, a pioneering effort to create a no-cost, open-source personal AI assistant that prioritizes privacy, ownership, and responsible AI policies.Join us as Reza discusses Kwaai's transformative impact on the industry, their commitment to democratizing AI, and the broader implications for consumer choice and technology's future.00:00 Machine Minds Show Introduction01:46 Reza’s journey 05:40 Micropolis experience06:08 The biomedical space08:30 Kwaai’s beginning 11:18 Transition into Kwaai19:09 How Kwaai is trying to democratize the AI26:26 How general public would create their own personal AI34:50 Kwaai’s impact in the AI industry42:10 Benefits of this type of AI46:51 Advice for entrepreneursMore about Kwaaihttps://www.linkedin.com/company/kwaailab/https://www.kwaai.ai/More about our guesthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/rezarassool/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:

In this episode I sit down with Peter Fitzpatrick, co-founder and CEO of Fawn Friends, to discuss how his company is creating cuddly robots designed to help neurodivergent kids form meaningful connections, set goals, and manage their emotions. Peter shares the inspiring journey behind Fawn Robotics, including his personal motivations and the pivotal moments that led him to leave a successful career and fully dedicate himself to this mission.We dive into the unique features of Fawn’s robots, including how they are designed to be affordable, interactive, and deeply connected to a rich character narrative that resonates with children. Peter also discusses the ethical considerations of introducing technology into children’s lives and how Fawn Robotics is committed to ensuring these robots are a positive influence.If you’re interested in the intersection of technology, mental health, and child development, this episode offers valuable insights into how robotics can be a force for good.Time Stamps01:20 Peter Fitzpatrick’s Background05:30 The Founding Story of Fawn Robotics08:12 Creating Cuddly Robots for Kids11:41 The Role of Character and Storytelling in Fawn18:11 Ethical Considerations in Children’s Robotics22:33 The Technology Behind Fawn29:07 Building a Mission-Driven Team35:19 The Future of Robotics in Child Development42:05 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

In this episode of Machine Minds, I sit down with Adam Lloyd Cohen, CEO and co-founder of Now Cuisine, to explore how his company is transforming the food tech industry by bringing restaurant-quality meals closer to consumers through cutting-edge automation. Adam shares his extensive background in 3D printing, robotics, and entrepreneurship, detailing how his experiences have shaped the innovative approach of Now Cuisine.We delve into the unique technology behind Now Cuisine’s kiosks, designed to offer high-quality meals without the need for on-site staff or extensive facilities. Adam discusses the challenges of creating a business model that leverages automation to solve real-world problems, such as food deserts, inconsistent food quality, and the inefficiencies of third-party delivery services.Whether you’re a foodie, tech enthusiast, or interested in the future of on-demand dining, this episode offers a fascinating look at how robotics is poised to revolutionize the way we access and enjoy food.Time Stamps01:15 Adam Lloyd Cohen’s Background in 3D Printing and Robotics08:30 The Founding of Now Cuisine11:25 The Technology Behind Automated Food Kiosks16:45 Overcoming Challenges in the Food Tech Industry23:00 The Importance of Business Models and Customer Focus29:40 Leadership and Team Building in Startups34:20 The Future of Food Tech and Robotics40:55 What’s Next for Now Cuisine

In this exciting episode of Machine Minds, we sit down with Francisco Martin Rayo, the CEO and Co-founder of Helios, a groundbreaking company harnessing the power of AI to revolutionize the agricultural supply chain. Join us as we explore how Helios is transforming the industry by predicting supply availability and identifying climate and economic risks that impact yields.Francisco shares the inspiring story behind Helios, detailing the initial spark that ignited his passion for technology and innovation. He dives into the founding journey alongside his co-founder, revealing the challenges they faced and the milestones they achieved in building a company that leverages billions of data points to provide actionable insights.We also discuss the future of AI in agriculture, exploring emerging trends, potential disruptions, and how the technology is poised to reshape the way we approach supply chain management. Don't miss this fascinating conversation about the intersection of agriculture and technology, and how Helios is leading the charge toward a more resilient and efficient future.Tune in to discover how AI is not just predicting the future, but actively shaping it!00:00 Machine Minds Show Introduction01:20 Francisco’s journey07:14 Initial spark in tech space09:00 Founding history behind Helios and what they do13:40 Problems to solve26:02 Lessons Francisco learned35:04 The importance of assembling a good team44:08 Future of the AI industry 49:36 Advice for entrepreneurs More about Helioshttps://www.linkedin.com/company/helios-sc/about/More about our guesthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/francisco-martin-rayo-b95b393/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:

In this episode of Machine Minds, I sit down with Saman Farid, founder and CEO of Formic, to explore his journey from engineering to entrepreneurship and how he's addressing the robotics gap in manufacturing. Saman shares his unique insights into the challenges and opportunities within the manufacturing industry, particularly how robotics can revolutionize productivity and worker safety.We dive into Saman’s diverse career path, which spans from engineering roles at Honeywell and Verizon to a decade in venture capital. He discusses how these experiences shaped his approach to building Formic, a company that's making automation more accessible for manufacturers. Saman also talks about the importance of customer-centric innovation and why understanding the real-world needs of manufacturers is crucial for success.If you’re interested in how robotics can transform industries and want to hear from someone who’s on the frontlines of this change, this episode is a must-listen.Time Stamps01:20 Saman Farid’s Background05:30 Transitioning from Engineering to Venture Capital08:12 The Founding Story of Formic11:41 The Robotics Gap in Manufacturing18:11 Challenges in Deploying Robotics Solutions22:33 Innovation vs. Reliability in Robotics29:07 Building a Customer-Centric Company35:19 The Future of Robotics in Manufacturing42:05 Advice for Aspiring EntrepreneursMore about our guest:https://www.linkedin.com/in/samanfarid/------Connect with me on LinkedIn:linkedin.com/in/gregtoroosian

In this episode of the Machine Minds podcast, we sit down with Christoph Kohstall, a remarkable Stanford University student and the visionary founder and CEO of Kind Humanoid. Join us as we explore Christoph's inspiring journey into the world of robotics and artificial intelligence, where he is dedicated to creating intelligent robots that enhance labor and contribute to a better tomorrow.Christoph shares insights into his early fascination with robotics, his experiences at Google Brain, and the pivotal moments that led him to establish Kind Humanoid. We dive deep into the mission and achievements of his company, discussing how it aims to revolutionise the way humans interact with technology.As we navigate through the challenges Christoph faced during the startup phase of Kind Humanoid, he reveals the lessons learned and the resilience required to overcome obstacles in the fast-paced tech landscape. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with inspiration, innovation, and a glimpse into the future of robotics.00:00 Machine Minds Show Introduction01:35 Christoph’s journey 03:52 Christoph’s jump into robotic and AI05:07 Initial spark for Kind Humanoid 06:51 Founding story behind Kind Humanoid06:17 Company's mission10:57 Early days challenges18:30 Technical challenges of building humans21:46 Superhuman instead of more in line with human23:25 Success for achieving the mission24:24 Biggest impact of the robots25:48 Qualities to look for when hiring 29:13 How to ensure team innovation?31:29 Future of robotics and AI37:51 What’s next for Kind Humanoid?More about Kind Humanoidhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/kind-humanoid/https://www.kindhumanoid.com/More about our guesthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/christophkohstall/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: