Grit Daily Startup Show

In this episode of The Startup Show, Mark McQuade, CEO of Arcee, delves into how his company is redefining enterprise AI with smaller, specialized language models. He discusses the importance of model ownership, cost efficiency, and the shift toward agentic systems capable of task automation. McQuade also shares insights on building sustainable AI businesses, emphasizing the need for revenue-driven strategies over pure tech innovation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Catherine Seys, director of Excurio, joined John Biggs on the Grit Daily Startup Show to discuss their groundbreaking immersive VR expeditions that let users explore historical and cultural worlds like ancient Egypt or Impressionist Paris in shared, free-roaming environments. With nearly two decades of expertise in immersive tech, Excurio has mastered blending cutting-edge technology with rich storytelling, creating accessible and engaging cultural experiences. Seys also highlighted the company’s plans to expand its offerings, improve VR interactions, and open its platform to other creators.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Grit Daily Startup Show, Adam Pisk, co-founder of BruntWork, discusses how his company is revolutionizing outsourcing by leveraging global talent and advanced AI to connect businesses with skilled remote workers. Adam shares insights into the challenges and opportunities of remote work, emphasizing the importance of clear communication, training, and realistic expectations for success. He also highlights BruntWork’s mission to improve quality of life for employees in developing countries by eliminating long commutes and offering competitive benefits.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Startup Show, host John Biggs talks with Eddi Weinwurm, founder of ObviousFuture, about their approach to artificial intelligence. Eddi explains how ObviousFuture’s compact, on-prem AI systems prioritize privacy and efficiency, offering secure solutions for industries like media, healthcare, and surveillance. From their innovative video editing assistant, CaraOne, to their vision of personalized, resident AI, this episode explores the future of AI as a practical and secure tool for businesses.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Ken Rosenfeld, managing partner of the Rosenfeld Law Firm, delves into his approach to criminal defense, emphasizing the importance of mental health advocacy in achieving justice. He discusses his use of tools like brain scans to support clients, the evolving societal perspective on mental health, and how these changes influence the legal system. Rosenfeld also reflects on balancing his demanding career with personal well-being while building a leading California law firm.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Startup Show, Punsri Abeywickrema shares the journey of building Cloud of Goods, a platform connecting people with short-term rental needs to local businesses and entrepreneurs. After two failed attempts and a pandemic-driven shutdown, he successfully relaunched the company in 2023, focusing on empowering small rental businesses and creating new gig-economy opportunities. Now operating in over 230 cities, Cloud of Goods is a testament to resilience and innovation in the sharing economy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dust Moto CEO Colin Godby joins John Biggs to discuss how his Oregon-based company is revolutionizing the dirt bike market with high-performance electric bikes designed to lower the barrier to entry for new riders. He explains their unique funding approach, including a WeFunder equity campaign and early customer pre-orders, as well as the challenges and opportunities of domestic manufacturing. Colin also shares insights on building a passionate community through grassroots marketing and collaborations with content creators and professional athletes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

John Biggs interviews George Gebhart, founder of Voltu, an EV technology company revolutionizing commercial vehicles. George discusses Voltu's innovative approach to electrifying mid-size trucks using proprietary powertrain systems and its upcoming Class 3 "work truck" set to launch in 2025. He also shares insights into the challenges of hardware manufacturing, EV adoption timelines, and his journey from bioengineering to leading the EV charge.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

John Biggs interviews Tim Huntzinger, founder of XOTO, about his self-stabilizing electric scooter designed to revolutionize urban mobility. Tim explains how the DOT-approved scooter combines safety, practicality, and front-wheel-drive innovation to offer a motorcycle-like experience at a lower environmental and economic cost. The episode dives into the challenges of building hardware, the evolving market for two-wheelers, and how XOTO plans to scale its game-changing product.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Michael Ausilio, a residential designer from Friday Harbor, shares his journey from hands-on carpentry to leading design projects, emphasizing hard work, adaptability, and collaboration. He discusses his transition into design, challenges of working in a small community, and the importance of leveraging technology to grow his business. Ausilio also offers insights for aspiring designers on learning through experience and staying committed to their craft.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.