In this episode, we speak with Michael Laskey, CTO, and Nag Murty, Founder & CEO of Electric Sheep, a company that has vertically integrated robotics and it’s transforming the outdoor services industry, from building their own foundation AI models to deploying human + robot crews to service customers. As we dive into our conversation, Michael Laskey and Nag Murty share their background and formative experiences that have shaped his journey in the world of robotics. From their education and PhD, how the idea of building a robot to landscapers first began, the company’s background and how they have outgrown from years of experiences. Michael from having 10+ years of experience and interest in the robotics industry and Nag from working in the White House under Obama’s administration.Today, Michael, Nag and his team at Electric Sheep are on a mission to build the largest outdoor sandbox for outdoor autonomy under a business model that works with the help of AI.Join us as we explore the exciting world of Electric Sheep and how the data engine to power the robots of tomorrow really works while amplifying the landscaping business using advanced automation.Time Stamps00:00 Introduction and background01:40 Building the Largest Outdoor Sandbox for Outdoor Autonomy 4:21 Founding Electric Sheep Robotics 5:00 Amplifying landscaping businesses 8:33 The technology behind Electric Sheep Robotics 10:00 Training the robots to learn and execute tasks  13:24 Working alongside humans to enhance efficiency  16:02 Acquiring and transforming landscaping businesses   18:43 Evaluating businesses for acquisition  20:00 Challenges in collaboration 25:22 Nurturing talent and maintaining a culture of innovation 31:51 The competitive landscape in outdoor automation robotics  34:31 The current state of the robotics and AI industry37:53 Future plans and scale-up39:24 Conclusion and where to find more information 40:00 Upcoming launch Electric Sheep https://www.linkedin.com/company/electric-sheep-robotics/ Michael Laskeyhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-laskey-4b087ba2/ Nag Murtyhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/nag-murty-b003383/ 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:   https://youtube.com/@machinemindsshowLet’s connect on social media:IG: https://www.instagram.com/machinemindsshow/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregtoroosian/

In this episode, we sit down with Steve Arters, Partner Vice President of Marketing at Renu Robotics, a company at the forefront of automating operations and maintenance in the solar industry. Renu Robotics specializes in the development of all-electric autonomous vehicles tailored for vegetation management.Throughout our engaging discussion, Steve imparts valuable insights derived from his illustrious background as a writer and editor, recounting his initial foray into the realm of marketing in Dallas before eventually relocating to San Antonio. He shares how his marketing expertise seamlessly transitioned into the realm of robotics, embarking on an extraordinary journey that continues to unfold.Join us on this exploration of Renu Robotics, as we delve into the remarkable strides they are making in shaping the future of Vegetation Management.Time Stamps00:00 Machine Minds Show01:20 Steve’s background5:20 Vegetation Management is critical6:30 Showing the Future through marketing9:45 Marketing Excellence Award12:55 Renu Robotics’s Journey 16:25 What Inspired Renu Robotics’s Focus?18:20 How Big are These Operations?19:20 Success Stories 22:20 Reasons to Have Vegetation Management Systems24:50 Trends of the Robotics Industry29:10 Other Mowing Markets32:00 Challenges and Regulations35:00 Advice to InnovatorsRenu Roboticshttps://renurobotics.com/Steve Artershttps://www.linkedin.com/in/stevearters/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:   https://youtube.com/@machinemindsshowLet’s connect on social media:IG: https://www.instagram.com/machinemindsshow/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregtoroosian/

In this episode, we speak with Seth Winteroth, partner at Eclipse Ventures. Eclipse Ventures is an early stage venture firm that specializes in investments within the vital physical industries that significantly impact people's lives.During our discussion, Seth imparts insights into his background and shares the transformative experiences that have shaped his journey in the realm of robotics. His tenure at General Electric in 2012, coupled with his involvement in pioneering strategic initiatives, provided him with invaluable perspectives and expertise. Furthermore, Seth had the privilege of witnessing a pivotal convergence point among substantial industrial sectors that exert profound influence on society.We invite you to join us as we delve into the captivating world of Eclipse Ventures and explore how their engagement in unconventional opportunities aligns with their overarching objective of augmenting the prospects of success for the visionary entrepreneurs they collaborate with.Time Stamps00:00 Machine Minds Show01:20 Seth background5:20 Hardware Business Models9:40 Delivering Solutions11:30 Seth’s Role in Eclipse12:10  Eclipse’s high Involvement 16:05 Eclipse’s Key Industries and Sectors21:15 Modern Automation Systems22:00 Opportunities in Automation24:20 What Eclipse Looks for Investing29:50 Pitching Mistakes34:40 Talent, Challenges and Success35:30 Hiring the Right People38:10 Current State of Robotics and AIEclipse Ventureshttps://eclipse.vcSeth Winterrothhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/sethwinterrothMachine 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:   https://youtube.com/@machinemindsshowLet’s connect on social media:IG: https://www.instagram.com/machinemindsshow/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregtoroosian/

In this episode, we had the privilege of speaking with Sam Abidi, the Chief Commercial Officer of Monarch Tractor, a pioneering company that specializes in the development of cutting-edge smart electric tractors, aimed at revolutionizing and optimizing existing farm ecosystems.During our conversation, Sam delved into his impressive professional journey. He began his career as a contributor in a robotics research laboratory, where he honed his expertise and passion for robotics. Additionally, Sam's remarkable tenure as a management consultant at Deloitte spanned over six years, further solidifying his proficiency in strategic decision-making and business acumen in the world of robotics. Prior to assuming his current role at Monarch Tractor. Join us as we explore the exciting world of Monarch Tractors, a company that helps farmers by addressing labor availability, meeting consumer demands for sustainability, and providing actionable data-driven farming insights. Monarch enables economically competitive organic and beyond farming through intelligent electro-mechanical solutions that replace harmful chemicals.Join us as we explore the world of Farming and Robotics!Time Stamps00:00 Machine Minds Show01:30 Sam’s background5:09 Monarch contacting Sam  5:48 Private Land Regulations 8:39 Monarch Tractor’s Journey 10:30 Monarch Tractor’s Customers 11:25 Monarch’s First Big Year  12:20 Monarch’s Approach To Autonomy 14:55 Functionality of Autonomous Tractors 18:41 Rentability of Autonomous Tractors 24:30  Crops Comparison Tests26:50 Monarch Tractors Approach To Farmers   30:42 Who Manages the Tractors? 33:08 Monarch Tractor Business Model  34:20 Hours of Tractor’s Autonomy 35:16 Success Stories of Monarch Tractor   37:20 Sam’s Balance 39:53 Sam’s Function on the Licensing Frontier  41:59 Partnerships43:41 Sam’s Predictions on Tech  47:28 Challenges That Agriculture Needs To Address48:56 Upcoming Innovations Monarch Tractorhttps://www.monarchtractor.com/ Sam Abidilinkedin.com/in/sam-a-8b28324bMachine 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:   https://youtube.com/@machinemindsshowLet’s connect on social media:IG: https://www.instagram.com/machinemindsshow/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregtoroosian/

In this episode, we speaked with Paolo, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Embodied, a cutting-edge robotics company that is changing the world of education and early age development for children. As we dive into our conversation, Paolo shares his background and formative experiences that have shaped his journey in the world of robotics. From his childhood dreams of working at NASA to his diverse experiences in the field, Paolo's passion and dedication to advancing robotics technology are truly inspiring.Today, Paolo and his team at Embodied are on a mission to create life-like robotic characters that can be integrated into our homes and daily lives, providing personalized support and learning opportunities for children aged 5-10. With their flagship product, Moxie, Embodied is poised to transform the education landscape, making learning more effective, inclusive, and engaging for all.Join us as we explore the exciting world of Embodied and how their innovative technology has the potential to shape the future of education. With their commitment to developing robots that can help us with personal development, mental health, and education, Embodied is truly a company to watch. So, sit back, relax, and let's dive into this fascinating conversation with Paolo.Time Stamps00:00 Machine Minds Show01:40 Paolo’s background3:40 Founding Embodied5:00 Developing Affordable Robots7:40 How Moxie was born8:30 AI tutoring for kids10:20 Moxie’s users11:30 Moxie’s functions and support13:00 Digital Moxie App Experience 14:30 The current impact of Moxie16:45 What happens to children that fall behind in class?17:50 Personalized lessons 19:20 Parents learning from Moxie18:40 Parenting with Moxie19:50 Therapy with Moxie21:50 What fuels the passion of Embodied?23:30 Overcoming challenges24:30 How Paolo balances different responsibilities28:40 The future of the Robotics and AI industry33:00 Paolo’s advice to engineers and aspiring entrepreneurs Embodied, Inc.https://www.linkedin.com/company/embodiedinc/Paolo Pirjanianhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/paolopirjanian/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:   https://youtube.com/@machinemindsshowLet’s connect on social media:IG: https://www.instagram.com/machinemindsshow/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregtoroosian/

In this episode, our dialogue with Spencer, unveils his background and formative experiences that shaped his trajectory in the world of robotics. As a young child, Spencer was granted the opportunity to visit the National Robotics Engineering Center of Pittsburgh, guided by his father's cousin, Lee Wise. It was during this visit that Spencer's passion for robotics was ignited, as he saw an industrial robot executing painting, drilling, and other operations.Throughout our discussion, Spencer shares the challenges he encountered at the outset of his career, challenges that ultimately propelled him to his current position as the President and Chief Executive Officer of SKA | Custom Robots and Machines.Join us as we delve into SKA, a company that sets itself apart through its ability to solve complex problems. Furthermore, Spencer imparts advice to aspiring engineers, urging them to embrace both small and big risks in their pursuit of their dreams.Time Stamps00:00 Machine Minds Show01:40 Spencer’s background 7:10 How SKA stands out8:30 SKA’s involvement with clients11:40 Advantages of having a lean team13:10 Spencer’s favorite projects20:00 Evolution of robotics26:30 Humanoids 29:30 What clients are asking from SKA30:45 Challenges in the industry35:45 Pricing and clients37:00 Future of robotics and AI39:25 Exciting upcoming projects45:40 Personal questions  48:30 Advice for aspiring engineers49:30 Where to find Spencer SKA | Custom Robots and Machineshttps://www.ska.solutions/More about our guest, Spencer Krausehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/spencerkrause/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:   https://youtube.com/@machinemindsshowLet’s connect on social media:IG: https://www.instagram.com/machinemindsshow/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregtoroosian/

In this episode, we engaged in a conversation with Daniel Theobald, a distinguished individual who holds positions of Co-founder and President at MassRobotics, Founder and Chairman at Vecna Robotics, and Founder and CEO at Mekable.Our dialogue with Daniel unveils his background, as he narrates his formative years spent in Silicon Valley. From a tender age, he found himself immersed in the world of robotics and artificial intelligence. Notably, Daniel recounts a momentous encounter with Eduard Teller, the renowned physicist hailed as the "father of the hydrogen bomb," an experience that greatly influenced his professional journey. Subsequently, his educational pursuit led him to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he established his own robotics program. Since then, he has gone on to found successful companies.Throughout our discussion, it becomes evident that his teams possess a deep sense of camaraderie and mutual care, enabling them to accomplish remarkable feats and assume pioneering roles within the robotics industry.Join us as we talk about the importance of prioritizing happiness in the workplace, career decision-making, as well as nurturing a genuine concern for both the business and the individuals involved. Moreover, Daniel explains how his passion for his work has empowered him to make a tangible impact within the industry without resorting to external sources of capital or funding.Time Stamps00:00 Machine Minds Show01:30 Daniel’s background4:25 Impact of MassRobotics5:30 The world runs on pallets7:10 Empowering human productivity8:00 Twisted Fields8:30 Technology not taking jobs10:50 The goal of enabling affordable healthy food15:00 Organic Foods against Covid 16:00 Sharing lessons18:00 Asking for help19:00 Trusting your gut20:30 People come first26:40 Relationships with coworkers29:00 How remote working has affected working culture31:40 Taking care of your coworkers33:00 Community service and productivity36:30 Daniel’s perspective on funding40:00 Taking investor money is not always the best45:20 You’re more likely to get laid off from big companies47:40 The current state of the robotics industry50:00 We shouldn’t fear technology Twisted Fieldshttps://www.twistedfields.comVecna RoboticsVecnarobotics.com MassRoboticsmassrobotics.org/More about our guest, Daniel Theobaldlinkedin.com/in/daniel-theobaldMachine Minds:Apple Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/machine-minds/id1696335193Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1apGh7xMItxo9UEYUwijZL?si=a6d2646c0f6540beGoogle Podcast:https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5idXp6c3Byb3V0LmNvbS8yMjEyMTQ4LnJzcw==Youtube:https://youtube.com/@machinemindsshowLet’s connect on social media:IG: https://www.instagram.com/machinemindsshow/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregtoroosian/

In this episode, we sit down with Abe Murray, General Partner at AlleyCorp Robotics. AlleyCorp Robotics is an early stage venture fund and incubator that founds and funds transformative companies in New York.During our discussion, Abe shares his remarkable career trajectory, which encompasses a diverse array of experiences. From his decision to forgo high school education to running fishing boats and factories of his family business, to later leading a Google research product team before AI became prominent. His background holds particular relevance to the realm of robotics. Notably, his hands-on involvement in operating forklifts and working on factory assembly lines has endowed him with insights into the practical applications of robotic technologies.Join us as we delve into a thought-provoking dialogue centered around recent advancements in the field of robotics. Furthermore, we explore the multifaceted challenges and promising opportunities that lie ahead, all while casting towards the future of this industry.Time Stamps00:00 Machine Minds Show01:30 Abe’s background3:40 The focus of AlleyCorp4:50 Mission of AlleyCorp Robotics6:40 The evolution of hardware in robotics9:20 The state of the robotics industry16:40 Recent investments to be excited about20:55 The misconception of robots taking jobs23:40 Challenges for robotics27:50 Better transition for employers and employees30:50 Opportunities in the near future33:30 The future of robotics40:30 Abe’s advice to innovatorsAlleyCorphttps://alleycorp.com/verticals/robotics/More about our guest, Abe Murrayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/abrahammurrayMachine Minds:Apple Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/machine-minds/id1696335193Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/1apGh7xMItxo9UEYUwijZL?si=a6d2646c0f6540beGoogle Podcast:https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5idXp6c3Byb3V0LmNvbS8yMjEyMTQ4LnJzcw==YouTube:https://youtube.com/@machinemindsshowLet’s connect on social media:IG: https://www.instagram.com/machinemindsshow/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregtoroosian/

In this episode, we sit down with Mika Saryan, VP of Engineering of Formic, a company that helps manufacturers grow their business by making it easy to afford, deploy, and profit from robotic automation.Mika takes us on his beginnings, starting on automotive, entertainment, consumer devices, and eventually ending up on robotics.Enjoy as he shares his passion about industrial automation, safety and the intersection between software and hardware.Mika shares advice to aspiring engineers and entrepreneurs on the field. Telling them to go into the real world, building new things, staying in the lab it's not enough, because of how loud and unpredictable the world is.Time Stamps00:00 Machine Minds Show1:25 Mika's background2:40 The importance of safety in industrial automation5:40 Challenges on Mika's career8:00 Formic's mission11:10 What makes Formic's offering unique?17:40 Trends in the automation industry23:05 Formic wanting to train operators, not displace them25:10 Labor shortage in the manufacturing industry  26:00 The future of robotics and AI30:25 Mika's advice to aspiring engineers and new start-upsFormichttps://formic.co/More about our guest, Mika Saryanhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/mika-saryan/Machine Minds:Apple Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/machine-minds/id1696335193Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/1apGh7xMItxo9UEYUwijZL?si=a6d2646c0f6540beGoogle Podcast:https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5idXp6c3Byb3V0LmNvbS8yMjEyMTQ4LnJzcw==YouTube:https://youtube.com/@machinemindsshowLet’s connect on social media:IG: https://www.instagram.com/machinemindsshow/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregtoroosian/

In this episode, we sit down with Davis Foster, Co-Founder of Scythe Robotics, a company that solves landscapers' labor issues. Davis takes us on his formation journey, from a young Lego enthusiast to Co-Founder and Chief Engineer of Scythe. Enjoy this episode with Davis, where he shares inspiring startup stories and how Scythe overcame obstacles.Davis is passionate about building high-quality products, and using top-quality pieces to build robots, Scythe's business model incentivizes them to make durable robotic mowers. Don't miss this conversation with Davis, as he describes how Scythe keeps innovating.Time Stamps00:00 Machine Minds Show1:25 Davis's background5:45 Initial challenges on a startup6:30 Early painful machine story9:20 Vision of Scythe Robotics 11:50 Solving Market's Labor Needs14:05 How Scythe distinguishes from competition  17:15 Evading to reinvent too much22:15 Pricing of Robotic Mowers & ROI for landscapers25:30 Incentives on building durable equipment31:10 Scythe's fundraising approach 34:20 Hiring talent37:45 Keeping innovation flowingScythe Roboticshttp://scytherobotics.com/More about our guest, Davis Fosterlinkedin.com/in/davisfosterMachine 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:   Youtube: https://youtube.com/@machinemindsshowLet’s connect on social media:IG: https://www.instagram.com/machinemindsshow/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregtoroosian/