Safwaan Kay is an innovative tech entrepreneur previously at Founders, Inc., now launching a stealth startup focused on AI agents and open-source software. He dives into the transformative potential of open-source models in tech and rideshare industries. The conversation touches on the emotional journey of startup founders, advocating for a shift in how we define ambition and success. Safwaan also explores the capabilities of AI agents in enhancing decision-making and workflow, and highlights the power of small teams achieving remarkable outcomes in the current tech landscape.

Reflecting on the year has always been part of my annual process — celebrating wins, learning from challenges, and planning ahead. In this essay and podcast episode, I’ll share my highlights, lessons, and goals for 2025, along with some unexpected takeaways from a year dedicated to having fun. Lessons Dropping the Mask: Letting go of the personas we build to meet others’ expectations is difficult but transformative. Living authentically allows for deeper connections and a more fulfilling life. Redefining Success: Inspired by my conversation with Kevin Dahlstrom, I’ve embraced a new version of the American Dream: sabbaticals, financial independence, passion-driven identities, and quality family time are what success looks like to me now. Health is Wealth: Navigating my heart health issues and running injuries reinforced a simple truth: everything else in life rests on a foundation of good health. Without it, nothing else is sustainable. Simplify to Focus: Decluttering my physical and mental space has been transformative. By owning less and streamlining commitments, I’ve freed up time and energy to focus on what I truly care about, whether it’s hobbies, relationships, or personal growth. Transitions take Time:  Big life changes rarely happen overnight. Shifting priorities, evolving identities, and exploring new paths require patience. Dead ends are part of the process; what matters is continuing to take steps forward without rushing the process. Read: https://mikekarnj.com/posts/2024-review Chapters 00:00 Intro 02:45 Highlights 26:32 Lessons Learned in 2024 29:54 Random 33:26 2025

In this episode of TKS, we explore how adult curiosity, independent thinking, and cognitive growth shape not only our careers but also our entire approach to life. Our guest, Andrew Conner, co-founder of Levels, shares insights from his 18-month sabbatical, where he stepped away from the day-to-day of building a startup to dive deep into unstructured learning and personal exploration. We discuss the mental frameworks and practical tactics that sustain lifelong curiosity, why wisdom is "the best predictor of life satisfaction," and how to cultivate cognitive ability in an algorithm-driven world. Guest https://andrewconner.com/ is the co-founder of Levels. He is a software engineer, amateur potter, and tinkerer. Chapters 00:00 Intro 01:19 Sabbatical 06:01 Guardrails 14:05 Adult Curiosity 20:10 Placebo Effect 24:55 Unstructured Learning 28:43 Framework 29:33 Navigating Algorithms 31:06 Intentional Content Consumption 40:37 Synthesizing and Connecting Ideas 49:31 Career Advice for Young High Performers The Karnjanaprakorn Show TKS features honest conversations with people who think differently. We explore unconventional ideas across life, work, and culture — expanding how you see the world. Each episode tackles a central question through personal stories and expert interviews. Host I am the founder of Skillshare and Otis. Learn more about me: https://mikekarnj.com

I chat with Rick Foerster, who shares his journey from a fast-paced tech career to one focused on family, creativity, and fulfillment. After twelve years at Privia Health, Rick took a sabbatical when the company went public. He used that time to reassess his priorities and shift from a work-centric identity to a multi-dimensional one. We discuss diversifying your identity and finding fulfillment beyond career success. We also explore the concept of ‘total addressable meaning,’ how finding meaning is the ultimate form of wealth, navigating midlife crises and avoiding burnout. This episode is perfect for anyone going through a transition, curious about taking a sabbatical, or seeking a more meaningful life beyond work. Guest Rick Foerster is a former healthcare executive who now writes at https://www.thewayofwork.com/. https://x.com/MattEspoz Topics 00:00 Intro 01:43 Rick's Journey 03:38 Life After Privia Health 08:25 Identity Shift 12:40 Sabbaticals 25:10 Ambition 36:00 Scaling Down After Scaling Up 40:02 Meaning 48:24 Advice for Those Feeling Stuck 54:36 Rebalancing Life's Portfolio The Karnjanaprakorn Show I am the ex-founder of Skillshare, and I am now exploring what's next. The Karnjanaprakorn Show (TKS) follows my journey as I chat with others, taking unique approaches to business and life. Learn more about me: https://mikekarnj.com

At 41, the host discovers a genetic predisposition to heart disease, challenging their perception of a healthy lifestyle. They delve into their high lipoprotein(a) levels, sharing biomarker insights and unexpected health scan results. The journey emphasizes the emotional aspects of confronting potential cardiac issues and the commitment to proactive health measures. The host explores treatment options, lifestyle changes, and the importance of early detection, inspiring listeners to take charge of their own health journeys.

In this conversation with Matt Espinoza, a 22-year-old startup whiz with two successful exits, fresh insights emerge on building a startup studio. He shares his unique approach to selecting ventures, emphasizing the value of working with friends and creating software that stands out. The importance of a 'cash cow' for funding new ideas is highlighted, alongside strategies for validating concepts and finding the right partners. Balancing work and life, Matt also discusses the joy of collaboration in startup culture.

Kevin Dahlstrom, a successful entrepreneur and rock climber, shares how he designed a life aligned with his desires through the 'ideal end state' exercise. He discusses work-life balance, lifestyle design, manifesting goals, identity beyond work, and the importance of hobbies. The podcast delves into topics like mental health, physical health, and finding fulfillment through passions.

Dan Reich, a 4x founder, shares his journey of selling companies and building a venture studio. He discusses navigating post-exit life, philanthropy, and finding fulfillment beyond financial success. Topics include financing strategies, challenges in building companies, and post-exit ventures and philanthropy.

Geoff Roberts, founder of Outseta, discusses creating a company with $210,000 salaries, flexible workdays, and a flat hierarchy. The focus is on life profitability for team and customers, fostering a high-trust, transparent work culture. Topics include bootstrapping, resolving conflicts, attracting talent, and lessons learned.

In this episode, I share the cycle many former founders go through as they decide between starting another company or riding off into the sunset. Chapters 00:00 Intro 01:28 Founder Cycle 07:59 Redefining Success Podcast I am the ex-founder of Skillshare, and now exploring what's next. The Karnjanaprakorn Show (TKS) follows my journey as I share what I learn along the way. Learn more about me: https://mikekarnj.com/