Joe Lonsdale: American Optimist

Joe Lonsdale
undefined
55 snips
Aug 6, 2025 • 31min

Ep 122: The AI Services Revolution with Shreyas Parab & Anton Lin of DayDream

Shreyas Parab and Anton Lin, co-founders of DayDream, discuss how AI is transforming dental billing and revenue cycle management. They unpack the inefficiencies in the current system and reveal how AI agents can swiftly recover lost claims, often missing by nearly 20%. The duo argues that rather than causing layoffs, AI is enhancing human roles, allowing workers to focus on growing their businesses. They also touch on the profound implications of AI in improving productivity across various sectors, reshaping workflows, and elevating patient care.
undefined
61 snips
Jul 28, 2025 • 40min

Ep 121: Reid Hoffman on AI Optimism & How the Democratic Party Alienated Silicon Valley

Reid Hoffman, co-founder of LinkedIn and a key figure in Silicon Valley, dives into the complexities of AI and its intersection with politics. He advocates for a hopeful AI future while challenging the Democratic Party's stance towards Silicon Valley. Reid discusses the innovative culture fostered at PayPal, the role of AI in healthcare, and the potential of autonomous trucks. He emphasizes the need for regulatory reform to support growth and addresses how states may differ in embracing technological advancements, particularly in red versus blue states.
undefined
9 snips
Jul 22, 2025 • 27min

Ep 120: OMB Director Russ Vought on the Big Beautiful Bill, Making DOGE Permanent & the Looming Battle over Impoundment

Russ Vought, former Director of the OMB and mastermind behind Trump's fiscal policies, shares insights on pivotal budget reforms. He dives into the implications of the Big Beautiful Bill and its impact on mandatory spending, while advocating for permanent DOGE cuts through strategic impoundment. Vought critiques the CBO's scoring methods and emphasizes the need for legislative innovation. He also warns of increasing bureaucratic power and the historical context of the Impoundment Act, making a case for restoring presidential authority and accountability in government spending.
undefined
30 snips
Jul 16, 2025 • 42min

Ep 119: Former Waymo Leader Boris Sofman on Autonomous Construction & Bringing AI into the Physical World

Boris Sofman, co-founder and CEO of Bedrock Robotics, shares his journey from the Soviet Union to becoming a leader in robotics. He discusses how AI can revolutionize the $2 trillion construction industry by making it faster, cheaper, and more efficient. Sofman provides insights into his experiences at Waymo, tackling the complexities of autonomous technology in different environments. He highlights the potential of reinforcement learning to solve unexpected construction challenges and the promising future of job growth through automation in heavy machinery.
undefined
185 snips
Jul 3, 2025 • 36min

Ep 118: Marc Andreessen on AI, Robotics & America's Industrial Renaissance

Marc Andreessen, co-founder of Andreessen Horowitz, dives into America's economic future, highlighting the critical link between industrial power and global competitiveness. He discusses the shift from manufacturing to services and its impact on urban-rural divides. With optimism, Andreessen advocates for AI and robotics to revolutionize job creation while addressing affordability in health and education. He also examines historical trade policies, suggesting a strategic reindustrialization to ensure every region, especially rural America, can thrive in the new economy.
undefined
Jun 26, 2025 • 49min

Ep 117: Dave Rubin on the Woke Right, Free Speech vs Conspiracy Theories & His New Tequila Company

Dave Rubin, a comedian-turned-political commentator and founder of Locals and Copal tequila, shares his insights on free speech and new media. He discusses the growing influence of AI on education and media, addressing the impact of censorship in digital content creation. Rubin highlights his journey in creating Locals as a space for free speech and critiques the current cultural landscape, including the emergence of a 'woke right.' He also reveals the vision behind his new tequila venture, emphasizing quality and authenticity.
undefined
15 snips
Jun 19, 2025 • 51min

Ep 116: California — the Next Revolution? A Conversation with Steve Hilton

Steve Hilton, former Fox News host and political advisor, delves into California's political landscape and his journey from UK politics to running for governor. He highlights the impact of over-regulation on small businesses and the alarming rise in frivolous lawsuits harming entrepreneurs. Hilton passionately discusses how California's policies have shifted power towards government unions, creating a crisis for working families. He envisions actionable solutions to tackle housing issues and restore California's identity, inspiring a new wave of political change in the state.
undefined
115 snips
Jun 12, 2025 • 44min

Ep 115: Scott Wu, Devin, and a Trillion-Dollar Opportunity

Scott Wu, the CEO and founder of Cognition AI, shares his groundbreaking journey with Devin, the world's first AI software engineer, which has revolutionized coding and boasts a valuation over $4 billion. He discusses the monumental economic potential of AI, possibly reaching trillions, and emphasizes the transformative collaboration between humans and AI in software engineering. Scott also reflects on his unconventional beginnings and the competitive programming culture that fuels innovation. He challenges listeners with a math puzzle and explores the future of creativity in tech.
undefined
74 snips
Jun 4, 2025 • 39min

Ep 114: Flying Cars Are About to Change the World — Joby CEO JoeBen Bevirt

JoeBen Bevirt, Co-Founder and CEO of Joby Aviation, discusses the groundbreaking advancements in electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, revolutionizing urban mobility. He explores how flying cars could reshape daily commuting, much like the automobile did. The conversation dives into advancements in battery technology, the potential of hydrogen as a fuel source, and the ambitious plans for air taxis. JoeBen also shares insights on regulatory challenges and partnerships that could unlock a new era of transportation, promising a future where flying cars are as common as ride-sharing.
undefined
62 snips
May 17, 2025 • 46min

Ep 113: Why Sam Lessin Believes AI Isn't Disruptive & Venture Capital Is Fundamentally Changing

Sam Lessin, Co-founder and General Partner of Slow Ventures, previously VP of Product at Facebook, shares riveting insights on AI and venture capital. He argues that AI is overhyped compared to the disruptive potential of crypto. Lessin also discusses a radical shift in the venture capital landscape towards bespoke funding strategies. Additionally, he highlights his efforts to promote meritocracy and innovative hiring practices at Meritfirst, focusing on unlocking hidden talent and reforming traditional structures in corporate America.

The AI-powered Podcast Player

Save insights by tapping your headphones, chat with episodes, discover the best highlights - and more!
App store bannerPlay store banner
Get the app