Invest Like the Best with Patrick O'Shaughnessy

Micky Malka, founder of Ribbit Capital and a pioneering investor in financial technology, shares his visionary insights on the evolution of fintech and the bold declaration that 'fintech is dead.' He discusses the transformative impact of AI, cryptocurrency, and network states in reshaping wealth and power. Micky also explores the convergence of digital art and NFTs as indicators of cultural shifts, emphasizing the need for adaptability and a robust digital identity to seize future opportunities. His passion for innovation shines through this engaging conversation.

Chetan Puttagunta is a General Partner at Benchmark, specializing in AI and tech investments, while Modest Proposal is an anonymous investor with deep expertise in AI and public markets. They discuss the scaling challenges in AI development, particularly moving from pre-training to test-time compute. The duo explores how this shift could democratize AI, reshape public and private investments, and transform the competitive landscape for tech companies. They also delve into the future of AI, emphasizing the importance of reasoning capabilities and the need for innovative investment strategies.

Ronnie Fieg, founder and CEO of Kith, shares his journey from a young shoe salesman to a cultural icon in fashion and footwear. He discusses his early experiences selling sneakers to legends like Jay-Z and Wu-Tang Clan. Fieg delves into the importance of storytelling in product design and his innovative collaborations, including memorable projects with BMW and Jerry Seinfeld. He also reflects on the influence of his travels on his design philosophy, emphasizing the balance between creativity and quality as Kith grew into a powerhouse brand.

Gabe Whaley, the founder and CEO of MSCHF, shares his journey of building a boundary-pushing creative company known for viral stunts and unexpected products, like anime-themed tax software. He dives into the concept of 'monopolizing a feeling' and the balance between artistic freedom and commercial success. The discussion also explores the cultural phenomenon of the Big Red Boots and the role of social media in shaping consumer perceptions. Whaley emphasizes the importance of fostering creativity and embracing the challenges of the evolving digital landscape.

Brad Jacobs, Executive Chairman of XPO and a serial entrepreneur known for founding billion-dollar companies, shares his insights on navigating the M&A landscape, emphasizing emotional complexities and strong relationships. He discusses the importance of balancing audacity with discipline, particularly in startups. Jacobs reflects on a strategic buyback at XPO amidst market volatility, the power of thought experiments for personal growth, and the transformative role of effective communication in fostering successful workplace culture.

Join Ernie Garcia, the co-founder and CEO of Carvana, as he recounts his extraordinary journey of steering the company through a staggering 99% stock price drop. He shares raw insights on resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing teamwork and morale. Garcia discusses leadership strategies that prioritize accountability and effective communication. Learn how Carvana not only survived but emerged stronger, highlighting operational efficiencies and the importance of investor relationships. His belief in fostering collective strength shines through in this candid conversation.

In this conversation, Andrew Homan, Managing Partner at Maverick Silicon, and Chris Miller, Tufts professor and "Chip War" author, dive deep into the semiconductor industry. They explore the seismic shifts caused by AI in chip demand and the strategic challenges major players like Intel are facing. The duo discusses the geopolitical complexities of self-sufficiency, the rise of fabless manufacturing, and the investment landscape for startups. They highlight the pressing need for sustainability in semiconductor capital expenditure and the role of innovation in this ever-evolving digital age.

In this discussion, Boyd Varty, a lion tracker and life coach from South Africa, shares his unique insights on storytelling as a powerful tool for personal and professional growth. He introduces the idea of 'story hunting' and emphasizes how cultivating compelling narratives can enrich our lives and businesses. Varty also explores the transformative role of storytelling in leadership and shaping culture, urging listeners to embrace authenticity in their journeys. His rich experiences in the wilderness highlight the profound connections we can forge through meaningful stories.

Tobi Lütke, co-founder and CEO of Shopify, shares his insights on innovation and leadership. He discusses the transformative role of AI in business, emphasizing the importance of adapting organizational culture and strategy. Tobi highlights the concept of 'Founder Mode' and the significance of fostering 'islands' of innovation to drive creativity. He also dives into the dynamics of trust within organizations and the critical balance between operational efficiency and market challenges, ultimately advocating for authenticity in monetization strategies.

Matt Perelman and Alex Sloane, Co-founders of Garnett Station Partners, share their journey from MBA students to leaders in franchise investing. They delve into their unique playbook for creating value, starting with their acquisition of 23 Burger King restaurants. The duo discusses crucial lessons learned from setbacks, including the importance of mentorship and strategic adaptations during challenges like the pandemic. Their insights into navigating multi-unit investments reveal strategies for assessing quality and brand strength, emphasizing the power of partnerships in driving success.