ACQ2 by Acquired

Lotte Bjerre Knudsen, Novo Nordisk’s Chief Scientific Advisor, shares her remarkable journey in discovering semaglutide, the molecule behind Ozempic. She reveals the initial skepticism faced in the 90s and her steadfast belief in its potential for weight loss, which was a goal from the start. Lotte discusses the complex mechanisms of GLP-1 agents, how they impact appetite and weight management, and the innovative pharmaceutical testing processes enhancing drug effectiveness. Her insights shed light on the collaborative spirit necessary in biomedical science.

Gaurav Ahuja, co-founder of Imprint and General Partner at Thrive Capital, dives deep into the evolving payments ecosystem. He shares insights on whether Visa should fear eroding interchange fees and examines the rising influence of real-time payments. The conversation highlights the challenges and opportunities for startups, as well as the potential for new players to disrupt the Visa and Mastercard duopoly. Ahuja also explores the critical role of co-branded credit card programs in driving customer loyalty.

Morgan Housel, author of bestselling books like 'The Psychology of Money,' shares insights on behavioral finance and the emotional aspects of financial decision-making. He discusses the psychological costs of financial choices in fluctuating economies and the impact of societal perceptions on personal wealth. Housel also critiques the addictive nature of Twitter and explores how content creation varies across mediums. His thoughtful reflections draw connections between personal fulfillment, wealth, and the often-overlooked truths about success.

Doug DeMuro, the creator behind the popular YouTube channel and founder of the car marketplace 'Cars and Bids', shares insights on the evolving car industry in 2023. He discusses the impact of the pandemic on car demand, the shift to electric vehicles, and how consumer purchases are influenced. Doug also dives into his journey from indie creator to managing a large organization following a $37 million investment. The conversation touches on the unique behaviors of car enthusiasts and the future of classic cars amidst technological changes.

Join Cristobal Valenzuela, co-founder and CEO of RunwayML, as he shares insights from the forefront of generative AI in filmmaking. Discover how Runway's tools, used in major films like 'Everything Everywhere All at Once', are transforming video creation. Valenzuela discusses the evolution of AI in storytelling, the democratization of filmmaking, and new business models emerging in this space. He also touches on the challenges startups face in securing resources amidst tech giants and the exciting fusion of art and technology.

Chase Lochmiller, CEO of Crusoe Energy, is revolutionizing AI cloud infrastructure by utilizing stranded energy sources from oil fields. He discusses how his company builds data centers on top of oil flares, transforming waste into computing power. Topics include innovations in cooling and energy management, the integration of renewable sources, and the benefits of using modular data centers for AI workloads. Lochmiller also shares insights on navigating the tech financing landscape while emphasizing a commitment to environmental sustainability in the rapidly evolving tech world.

Tom Cowan, co-founder of TDM Growth Partners, shares insights from an investment firm that boasts a remarkable 26% annual return over 18 years. He discusses historical comparisons between the dot-com crash and today's market, emphasizing how high-growth companies behave during downturns. Cowan highlights the importance of emotional discipline and sound valuations for investors. He also reflects on how flexibility and a long-term investment philosophy are essential in navigating today's market uncertainties.

Jake Saper, a partner at Emergence Capital and expert in Generative AI, dives into the evolving landscape of B2B SaaS. He discusses when accuracy is critical, the necessity of human oversight in AI systems, and how startups can leverage proprietary data for a competitive advantage. Jake also explores the tension between innovation and legal compliance, and the transformative potential of generative AI on business operations. His insights reflect on the balance of AI and human creativity, emphasizing new roles in the job market and innovative pricing strategies.

Avlok Kohli, CEO of AngelList, drives a transformative shift in the venture capital landscape. He explains how AngelList evolved from merely an SPV provider to a comprehensive software platform supporting over $15B in assets. Kohli discusses the innovative use of software and AI in managing venture capital operations, enhancing accuracy and efficiency. He also reveals the impact of generative AI on the industry and how automation tools streamline complex workflows, reshaping investor experiences and enabling greater flexibility for founders.

David Hsu, the Founder and CEO of Retool, has an intriguing background that combines philosophy and computer science from Oxford. He discusses the pitfalls of product-led growth, emphasizing the critical need for sales in finding product-market fit. Hsu shares insights on achieving significant ARR with lean teams and sustaining cash flow positivity while navigating growth. The conversation also touches on the implications of AI in entrepreneurship and the significance of intrinsic motivation for driving innovation. Tune in for practical wisdom from a tech visionary!