a16z

The web is unhealthy, and AI agents are about to rewrite how we shop.In this episode, a16z General Partner Alex Rampell and Partner Justine Moore explore how AI agents will change commerce and the implications for Google's business model, affiliate marketing, online shopping, and more. Timecodes: 0:00 Introduction 0:12 The Role of AI Agents in Commerce1:28 Affiliate Marketing & Impulse Buys4:02 Observing Consumer Behavior & AI6:08 Dynamic Pricing & E-commerce Trends7:20 Online vs. Offline Shopping Behaviors10:09 The Challenge of Attribution in Commerce12:19 Aggregators, Brands, and Business Models15:24 Trend Cycles & Single SKU Retailers17:49 Google, Search, and the Freemium Model22:41 The Unhealthy Web & Commercialization26:04 Video Reviews & Trust in Commerce29:10 The Costco Model & Consumer Trust33:15 AI's Impact on Different Types of Purchases39:56 The Future: Specialized Shopping Agents40:16 Opportunities for New Durable Companies44:18 The Merchant Side: Infrastructure for AI Agents Resources: Read the article: http://a16z.com/ai-x-commerce/Find Alex on X: https://x.com/arampellFind Justine on X: https://x.com/venturetwins Stay Updated: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, subscribe, and share with your friends!Find a16z on X: https://x.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zListen to the a16z Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5bC65RDvs3oxnLyqqvkUYXListen to the a16z Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a16z-podcast/id842818711Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures. Stay Updated:Find a16z on XFind a16z on LinkedInListen to the a16z Podcast on SpotifyListen to the a16z Podcast on Apple PodcastsFollow our host: https://twitter.com/eriktorenberg Please note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

OpenAI's Codex has already shipped hundreds of thousands of pull requests in its first month. But what is it really, and how will coding agents change the future of software?In this episode, General Partner Anjney Midha goes behind the scenes with one of Codex's product leads- Alexander Embiricos - to unpack its origin story, why its PR success rate is so high, the safety challenges of autonomous agents, and what this all means for developers, students, and the future of coding. Timecodes:0:00 Intro: The Vision for AI Agents1:25 Codex's Origin and Naming3:20 Early Prototypes and Agent Form Factors6:00 Cloud Agents: Safety and Security9:40 Prompt Injection and Attack Vectors12:00 PR Merging: Metrics and Transparency17:00 The Future of Code Review and Automation20:00 User Adoption: Internal vs. External Surprises22:00 Multi-Turn Interactions and Product Learnings29:30 Best-of-N, Slot Machine Analogy, and Creativity33:00 Human Taste, Iteration, and Collaboration40:00 AI's Impact on Software Engineering Careers45:00 Education, CS Degrees, and AI Integration49:00 Prototyping, Hackathons, and Speed to Magic55:00 Legacy Code, Modernization, and Global Adoption1:00:00 Enterprise, Security, and Air-Gapped Environments1:05:00 Product Roadmap and Future of Codex1:10:00 Advice for Founders and Startups1:15:00 Education Reform and Project-Based Learning1:20:00 Hiring, Building, and New Grad Advice Resources: Find Alex on X: https://x.com/embiricoFind Anjney on X: https://twitter.com/AnjneyMidha Stay Updated: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, subscribe, and share with your friends!Find a16z on X: https://x.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zListen to the a16z Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5bC65RDvs3oxnLyqqvkUYXListen to the a16z Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a16z-podcast/id842818711Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures. Stay Updated:Find a16z on XFind a16z on LinkedInListen to the a16z Podcast on SpotifyListen to the a16z Podcast on Apple PodcastsFollow our host: https://twitter.com/eriktorenberg Please note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Can we make science as fast as software? In this episode, Erik Torenberg talks with Patrick Hsu (cofounder of Arc Institute) and a16z general partner Jorge Conde about Arc's “virtual cells” moonshot, which uses foundation models to simulate biology and guide experiments. They discuss why research is slow, what an AlphaFold-style moment for cell biology could look like, and how AI might improve drug discovery. The conversation also covers hype versus substance in AI for biology, clinical bottlenecks, capital intensity, and how breakthroughs like GLP-1s show the path from science to major business and health impact. Resources:Find Patrick on X: https://x.com/pdhsuFind Jorge on X: https://x.com/JorgeCondeBio Stay Updated:Find a16z on XFind a16z on LinkedInListen to the a16z Podcast on SpotifyListen to the a16z Podcast on Apple PodcastsFollow our host: https://twitter.com/eriktorenberg Please note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this conversation from Lenny's Podcast, Ben Horowitz joins Lenny to discuss the psychological muscle every founder needs, why hesitation can be fatal for CEOs, when it's time to replace a founder, and how to normalize failure while building confidence. They also explore the Databricks founding story, investing in Adam Neumann after WeWork, whether AI is in a bubble, where the real opportunities lie, and Ben's work with the Paid in Full Foundation supporting hip-hop pioneers. The result is a candid look at leadership, product management, and what it takes to build enduring companies. Timecodes: 00:00 Introduction 00:22 The Psychology of Leadership & Decision-Making02:41 Leadership lessons from Shaka Senghor07.56 Struggle, Pain, and Growth as a CEO 10:15 Running toward fear and why hesitation kills companies19:35 Who shouldn't start a company22:36 The Databricks story: thinking bigger24:54 Managerial leverage and CEO psychology28:06 When founders should be replaced as CEOs31:20 Normalizing failure for CEOs37:57 Counterintuitive lessons about building companies42:31 “Good Product Manager/Bad Product Manager”48:21 Product managers as leaders51:16 Why a16z invested in Adam Neumann after WeWork56:23 Is AI in a bubble?01:02:43 The biggest opportunities in AI01:12:51 Why U.S. leadership in AI matters01:18:53 The Paid in Full Foundation for hip-hop pioneers01:23:18 Lightning round: book recommendations, products, and life mottos Resources: Find Ben on X: https://x.com/bhorowitzFind Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/behorowitz/Watch more of Lenny's Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@LennysPodcastCheck out Lenny's newsletter here: https://www.lennysnewsletter.com Stay Updated: Find a16z on X: https://x.com/a16z Find a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16z Listen to the a16z Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5bC65RDvs3oxnLyqqvkUYX?si=3E8B3qT9TyiwAHJ7JnaKbgListen to the a16z Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a16z-podcast/id842818711Follow our host: https://twitter.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

The $13T U.S. mortgage market serves 50M homeowners but still runs on decades-old software. In this episode, a16z GP Angela Strange hosts Tim Mayopoulos (ex-CEO of Fannie Mae and ex-president of Blend), Mike Yu (co-founder and CEO of Vesta), and Andrew Wang (co-founder and CEO of Valon) to unpack why standardization and regulation slow change, and how modern loan-origination and servicing platforms, cleaner data, and AI can cut costs, boost transparency, and reduce errors. They also discuss policy levers that could speed innovation and what a true one-tap mortgage could look like. Timecodes: 00:00 Introduction 00:59 The Scale and Structure of the US Mortgage Market01:33 Why Mortgage Tech is Slow to Change02:00 Challenges of Standardization and Regulation03:41 The Human Side of Home Buying07:43 Old Software and Its Impact on Homeowners11:16 Data Transparency and Capital Markets13:17 Building New Mortgage Infrastructure: LOS and Servicing16:22 Operational Challenges and Opportunities in Servicing22:04 Driving Digital Adoption at Fannie Mae25:15 Modernizing Data and Appraisals28:27 Core Replacement vs. Wrappers: Tech Strategies35:29 AI in Mortgage: Today and Tomorrow40:42 AI, Regulation, and the Future of Compliance43:54 Advice for Lenders Preparing for an AI Future47:49 Visions for the Future of Mortgages Resources: Find Angela on X: https://x.com/astrangeFind Tim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timothy-j-mayopoulos-56972a45/Find Andrew on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wangandrewd/Find Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeyu1/ Stay Updated: Find a16z on X: https://x.com/a16z Find a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16z Listen to the a16z Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5bC65RDvs3oxnLyqqvkUYX?si=3E8B3qT9TyiwAHJ7JnaKbgListen to the a16z Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a16z-podcast/id842818711Follow our host: https://twitter.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

Why do some consumer products explode into networks that reshape the internet, while others fade away?Today on the podcast, a16z general partners Anish Acharya and Chris Dixon take on that question. Anish invests in AI-native consumer products and the next wave of consumer tech. Chris is best known for his work in Web3 and network economies, and he's also led some of a16z's biggest consumer bets.Together, they cover the history and power of consumer networks, the exponential forces that shape how they grow, and what it all means for founders building in the age of AI. Timecodes:00:00 Introduction 00:43 The Power of Networks in Tech02:19 Moore's Law, Composability, and Network Effects06:39 Building Networks: Tools vs. Networks10:49 Brand, Pricing, and Consumer Software Trends14:33 Movements, Communities, and Niche Markets20:02 Decentralization, AI, and the Open Web24:45 Platform Shifts and the Idea Maze29:55 Native vs. Isomorphic Technologies36:14 Open Source, Policy, and the Future of AI42:03 Closing Thoughts & Outro Resources: Find Chris on X: https://x.com/cdixonFind Anish on X: https://x.com/illscience Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://twitter.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

What happens when AI collides with salesmanship, streaming-era sports, and healthcare?In this episode, Erik Torenberg is joined by Mark Cuban, entrepreneur, Dallas Mavericks co-owner, and founder of Cost Plus Drugs.Topics include fiery group chats and how dissent sharpens thinking, the sales playbook of modern politics, and concrete fixes for U.S. healthcare like ending PBM opacity, publishing real prices, and government-backed patient financing. Mark also explains how AI is pushing media from “social” to algorithmic, why he expects millions of models, and why ESOPs are an underrated wealth engine. He shares what he'd build today and weighs in on NBA economics under the new collective bargaining agreement.Timecodes: 00:00 Introduction 00:47 Salesmanship, Politics, and Social Media04:05 AI, Algorithms, and the Future of Media06:29 Fragmentation of Social Platforms09:04 Political Messaging & Economic Populism12:05 Wealth, Equity, and Employee Ownership16:39 AI's Impact on Education and Healthcare21:32 Fixing the US Healthcare System29:39 Entrepreneurship in the Age of AI33:38 Business Success, Sports, and Investments35:32 NBA Economics and Team Building50:44 Personal Priorities & Closing Thoughts Resources: Find Mark on X: https://x.com/mcuban Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

Who's speaking up for startups in Washington, D.C.?In this episode, Matt Perault (Head of AI Policy, a16z) and Collin McCune (Head of Government Affairs, a16z) unpack the “Little Tech Agenda” for AI- why AI rules should regulate harmful use, not model development; how to keep open source open; the roles of the federal government vs states in regulating AI; and how the U.S. can compete globally without shutting out new founders. Timecodes: 0:00 – Introduction 1:12 – Defining the Little Tech Agenda4:40 – Challenges for Startups vs. Big Tech6:37 – Principles of Smart AI Regulation9:55 – History of AI Policy & Regulatory Fears19:26 – The Role of Open Source and Global Competition23:45 – Motivations Behind Policy Approaches26:40 – Debates on Regulating Use vs. Development35:15 – Federal vs. State Roles in AI Policy39:24 – AI Policy and U.S.–China Competition40:45 – Current Policy Landscape & Action Plans42:47 – Moratoriums, Preemption, and Political Dynamics50:00 – Looking Forward: The Future of AI Policy56:16 – Conclusion & DisclaimersResources: Read the Little Tech Agenda: https://a16z.com/the-little-tech-agenda/Read ‘Regulate AI Use, Not AI Development : https://a16z.com/regulate-ai-use-not-ai-development/Read Martin's article ‘Base AI Policy on Evidence, Not Existential Angst: https://a16z.com/base-ai-policy-on-evidence-not-existential-angst/Read ‘Setting the Agenda for Global AI Leadership':https://a16z.com/setting-the-agenda-for-global-ai-leadership-assessing-the-roles-of-congress-and-the-states/Read ‘The Commerce Clause in the Age of AI”: https://a16z.com/the-commerce-clause-in-the-age-of-ai-guardrails-and-opportunities-for-state-legislatures/Find Matt on X: https://x.com/MattPeraultFind Collin on X: https://x.com/Collin_McCune

Stainless founder Alex Rattray joins a16z partner Jennifer Li to talk about the future of APIs, SDKs, and the rise of MCP (Model Context Protocol). Drawing on his experience at Stripe—where he helped redesign API docs and built code-generation systems—Alex explains why the SDK is the API for most developers, and why high-quality, idiomatic libraries are essential not just for humans, but now for AI agents as well.They dive into:The evolution of SDK generation and lessons from building at scale inside Stripe.Why MCP reframes APIs as interfaces for large language models.The challenges of designing tools and docs for both developers and AI agents.How context limits, dynamic tool generation, and documentation shape agent usability.The future of developer platforms in an era where “every company is an API company.”Timecodes: 0:00 – Introduction: APIs as the Dendrites of the Internet1:49 – Building API Platforms: Lessons from Stripe3:03 – SDKs: The Developer's Interface6:16 – The MCP Model: APIs for AI Agents9:23 – Designing for LLMs and AI Users13:08 – Solving Context Window Challenges16:57 – The Importance of Strongly Typed SDKs21:07 – The Future of API and Agent Experience24:45 – Lessons from Leading API Companies26:14 – Outro and DisclaimersResources: Find Alex on X: https://x.com/rattrayalexFind Jennifer on X: https://x.com/JenniferHliStay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

Taken from The Oprah Podcast, this special episode brings together Shaka Senghor, a16z cofounder Ben Horowitz, and Oprah Winfrey for a powerful conversation on resilience and transformation.Shaka, a resilience expert, motivational speaker, and bestselling author of Writing My Wrongs, shares his journey from incarceration to redemption along with insights from his new book, How to Be Free. Full of hard-earned wisdom and practical tools, it's a guide for anyone seeking freedom in their own life.Timecodes: 0:00 Introduction 1:30 Shaka's Journey: From Prison to Freedom4:10 The Power of Narrative and Mindset6:10 Active Journaling & Writing My Wrongs8:45 Escaping Life's Hidden Prisons10:00 The Role of Forgiveness16:40 Healing Family Relationships21:00 Unconditional Forgiveness & True Freedom22:40 Resilience as a Spiritual Principle24:15 Mentorship & Meeting Ben Horowitz28:55 Lessons on Success and Failure30:20 The Meaning of a Pardon31:50 Life After Prison: Finding Joy in Freedom32:30 Advice for Listeners: How to Begin Your Own Journey35:15 Closing Thoughts Resources: Find Shaka on X: https://x.com/ShakaSenghoFind Ben on X: https://x.com/bhorowitzFind Oprah on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oprahpodcast/Listen to the full podcast:https://open.spotify.com/show/0tEVrfNp92a7lbjDe6GMLIhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-oprah-podcast/id1782960381 Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

Is non-consensus investing overrated—or the secret to venture returns?a16z General Partner Erik Torenberg is joined by Martín Casado (General Partner, a16z) and Leo Polovets (General Partner, Humba Ventures) to unpack the debate that lit up venture Twitter/X: should founders and VCs chase consensus, or run from it?They explore what “consensus” really means in practice, how market efficiency shapes venture outcomes, why most companies fail from indigestion, not starvation, and the risks founders face when they're too far outside consensus. Timecodes: 00:00 Introduction 01:04 Defining Consensus and Market Efficiency06:30 The Role of Hot Rounds and Market Signals10:25 Founder Perspective: Risks of Non-Consensus13:19 Investor Perspective: Indigestion vs. Starvation18:28 Market Cycles & Sector Hype23:55 The Evolution of Venture Market Efficiency26:29 Case Studies & Personal Anecdotes33:02 Fund Size, Ownership, and the Impact on Strategy51:40 The Future of Venture: Multi-Stage vs. Seed Funds Resources: Find Leo on X: https://x.com/lpolovetsFind Martin on X: https://x.com/martin_casado Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

Jack Altman sits down with Martin Casado, General Partner at a16z, to unpack the shifting dynamics of venture capital and why media matters more than ever. They cover a16z's evolution from generalists to specialized platforms, the rise of AI infrastructure, and why today's fiercest battles are often for talent, not market share.Timecodes:0:00 Introduction0:27 Importance of Media for VC3:50 Evolution of a16z7:00 Specialization10:32 Value of Distribution13:16 Staying Power in Infrastructure19:49 The Conflicts Dynamic26:32 State of Play in AI30:48 The Future of Coding34:58 Significance of Open Source39:48 Marc Andreessen's Leadership44:02 The Only Sin in VC48:37 Scaling a Lot of Board SeatsResources: Listen to more from Uncapped: https://linktr.ee/uncappedpodFind Jack on X: https://x.com/jaltmaFind Uncapped on X: https://x.com/uncapped_podFind Martin on X: https://x.com/martin_casadoStay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

What if the future of media isn't controlled by algorithms or legacy institutions—but by independent voices building directly with their audiences?In this episode, Erik Torenberg is joined by Chris Best, cofounder and CEO of Substack, along with a16z general partners Katherine Boyle and Andrew Chen.We trace the origin story of Substack and its cultural impact, including how it reinvented the business model for independent media. We also explore the evolution of blogging, the rebundling of media, and what the future holds as attention becomes the scarcest resource.Timecodes: 00:00 Introduction03:50 Origins of Substack06:29 The Evolution of Blogging & Media Models09:15 Direct Audience Connection & Platform Independence10:57 Vision for Substack & The Role of Algorithms21:06 Business Models: Ads, Subscriptions, and AI26:10 The Scarcity of Attention & Value of Good Content27:45 Unbundling, Rebundling, and the Future of Media Companies37:12 Academia, Books, and Changing Content Formats44:31 Substack's Next Phase & Closing ThoughtsResources: Find Chris on Substack: https://cb.substack.com/Find Chris on X: https://x.com/cjgbestFind Andrew Chen on Substack: https://andrewchen.substack.com/Find Andrew on X: https://x.com/andrewchenFind Katherine on X: https://x.com/KTmBoyleFind Katherine on Substack: https://boyle.substack.com/Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

Venture capital has powered companies like Facebook and TikTok—but what if that same urgency fueled America's defense and industrial base? Katherine Boyle, General Partner at Andreessen Horowitz and cofounder of the firm's American Dynamism practice, argues this is the biggest business opportunity of our time.In this conversation from The Shawn Ryan Show, Boyle discusses the rise of defense tech startups, why optimism drives her work, and how a new generation of engineers and founders is rethinking innovation and patriotism in America. Timecodes: 0:00 Introduction 0:41 Patriotism, Optimism, and American Innovation4:27 Startups vs. Legacy Primes in Defense10:08 Venture Capital's Unique Incentives17:21 Katherine's Backstory: Family & Upbringing21:07 The Decline of Community & Family Pillars23:23 Polarization, Religion, and Social Fabric26:16 America's Birth Rate Crisis29:46 Cultural Shifts and the Family Structure42:01 Katherine's Path: Journalism to Venture Capital1:06:06 Breaking into Silicon Valley1:18:06 Investing in Defense: The Anduril Story1:37:37 The American Dynamism Movement2:04:27 Manufacturing, Space, and the Future of Defense2:14:06 Espionage, China, and National Security2:37:38 The Attack on the American Family2:48:29 Cultural Change, Suffering, and Purpose2:55:30 Closing Thoughts Resources: Find Katherine on X: https://x.com/KTmBoyleShawn Ryan Show Links YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkoujZQZatbqy4KGcgjpVxQ/joinListen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shawn-ryan-show/id1492492083Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5eodRZd3qR9VT1ip1wI7xQ?si=7abec4d61c324b24 Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

In this interview from the 20VC podcast, Martin Casado (a16z General Partner) joins Harry Stebbings to unpack the state of AI, the rise of coding models, the future of open vs. closed source, and how value is shifting across the stack.Martin offers a candid view of the opportunities and dangers shaping AI and venture capital today. Resources: Find Martin on X: https://x.com/martin_casadoFind Harry on X: https://x.com/harrystebbingsMore about 20VC:Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@20VCSubscribe on Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/3j2KMcZTtgTNBKwtZBMHvl?si=85bc9196860e4466&nd=1&dlsi=d1dbbc6a0d7c4408Subscribe on Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-twenty-minute-vc-20vc-venture-capital-startup/id958230465Visit their Website: https://www.20vc.comSubscribe to their Newsletter: https://www.thetwentyminutevc.com/Follow 20VC on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/20vchq/#Follow 20VC on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@20vc_tok Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

What are real consumers actually doing with AI today?In this episode, a16z consumer investors Olivia Moore and Justine Moore break down the fifth edition of our Consumer AI 100, a biannual ranking of the most used AI-native web and mobile products across the globe. Timecodes:  0:00 Introduction1:45 New Companies & Trends3:32 Companionship & Creative Tools4:20 Big Tech on the List: Google's Impact6:24 Chinese AI Companies & Global Trends10:19 Vibecoding: A New Trend13:40 AI All-Stars: Consistent Top Performers15:30 Network Effects & Product Experience17:20 Enterprise Adoption & Prosumer Growth19:40 Biggest Takeaways21:09 Grok's debut22:56 Future predictions25:14 Closing & Audience Engagement Resources:Read more about the Top Gen 100: http://a16z.com/100-gen-ai-apps-5/Find Olivia on X: https://x.com/omooretweetsFind Justine on X: https://x.com/venturetwins Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

What exactly is an AI agent, and how will agents change the way we work?In this episode, a16z general partners Erik Torenberg and Martin Casado sit down with Aaron Levie (CEO, Box) and Steven Sinofsky (a16z board partner; former Microsoft exec) to unpack one of the hottest debates in AI right now.They cover:Competing definitions of an “agent,” from background tasks to autonomous internsWhy today's agents look less like a single AGI and more like networks of specialized sub-agentsThe technical challenges of long-running, self-improving systemsHow agent-driven workflows could reshape coding, productivity, and enterprise softwareWhat history — from the early PC era to the rise of the internet — tells us about platform shifts like this oneThe conversation moves from deep technical questions to big-picture implications for founders, enterprises, and the future of work. Timecodes: 0:00 Introduction: The Evolution of AI Agents0:36 Defining Agency and Autonomy1:54 Long-Running Agents and Feedback Loops4:49 Specialization and Task Division in AI6:20 Human-AI Collaboration and Productivity6:59 Anthropomorphizing AI and Economic Impact9:10 Predictions, Progress, and Platform Shifts11:31 Recursive Self-Improvement and Technical Challenges13:20 Hallucinations, Verification, and Expert Productivity16:20 The Role of Experts and Tool Adoption22:14 Changing Workflows: Agents Reshaping Work Patterns45:55 Division of Labor, Specialization, and New Roles48:47 Verticalization, Applied AI, and the Future of Agents54:44 Platform Competition and the Application Layer55:29 Closing Thoughts and Takeaways  Resources: Find Aaron on X: https://x.com/levieFind Martin on X: https://x.com/martin_casadoFind Steven on X: https://x.com/stevesi Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

Erik Torenberg sits down with Ben Horowitz, Cofounder of a16z, for a candid conversation on venture capital, leadership, and the future of innovation. Recorded live at a16z's Menlo Park offices in 2023, Ben shares practical wisdom and hard-earned lessons on navigating market cycles, building resilient companies, and why culture is a lasting competitive edge.Timecodes: 0:00 Introduction 0:49 Building a Lasting Venture Firm1:57 Product vs. Investor-Driven Firms5:17 Evolution of Andreessen Horowitz8:43 Fund Sizing & Market Opportunity11:38 Recruiting & Culture at a16z13:58 Supporting Founders & Firm Mission14:39 Governance & Firm Structure17:15 The Future of Venture Capital20:26 Riding Trends: AI, Web3, and Beyond27:06 Regulation, Open Source, and Innovation29:22 LPs, Macro, and Long-Term Strategy33:25 Advice for the Next Generation37:15 Tech Optimism & Societal Impact42:33 Closing Thoughts & Outro Resources: Find Ben on X:  https://x.com/bhorowitzSubscribe to Turpentine VC: link.chtbl.com/TurpentineVC Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

Marc Andreessen, cofounder Andreessen Horowitz, joins the Hermitix podcast for a conversation on AI, accelerationism, energy, and the future.From the thermodynamic roots of effective accelerationism (E/acc) to the cultural cycles of optimism and fear around new technologies, Marc shares why AI is best understood as code, how nuclear debates mirror today's AI concerns, and what these shifts mean for society and progress. Timecodes:0:00 Introduction 0:51 Podcast Overview & Guest Introduction1:45 Marc Andreessen's Background3:30 Technology's Role in Society4:44 The Hermitix Question: Influential Thinkers8:19 AI: Past, Present, and Future10:57 Superconductors and Technological Breakthroughs15:53 Optimism, Pessimism, and Stagnation in Technology22:54 Fear of Technology and Social Order29:49 Nuclear Power: Promise and Controversy34:53 AI Regulation and Societal Impact41:16 Effective Accelerationism Explained47:19 Thermodynamics, Life, and Human Progress53:07 Learned Helplessness and the Role of Elites1:01:08 The Future: 10–50 Years and Beyond Resources:Marc on X:   https://x.com/pmarcaMarc's Substack: https://pmarca.substack.com/Become part of the Hermitix community:On X: https://x.com/HermitixpodcastSupport: http://patreon.com/hermitixFind James on X: https://x.com/meta_nomad Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

Housing and healthcare make up nearly half of household spending, yet both sectors are riddled with inefficiency and rising costs.In this episode, Erik Torenberg is joined by a16z Growth partner Alex Immerman and Minna Song and Tony Stoyanov, cofounders of EliseAI, to discuss why they're tackling these critical industries and how AI can transform everything from leasing and maintenance to patient scheduling and compliance.The conversation covers:Why the U.S. is 5 million housing units short — and how technology can help unlock existing supplyHow automation can cut waste, reduce labor costs, and improve affordabilityWhat fully autonomous buildings might look like, and how that model could extend to healthcareThis is about the costs that touch every household, and the role AI might play in finally bringing them down. Resources: Link to blog: https://a16z.com/announcement/investing-in-eliseai/Find Minna on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/minna-song/Find Tony on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/stoyan-tony-stoyanov-07690a53FInd Alex on X: https://x.com/aleximm Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

Do tariffs help rebuild American manufacturing or hold it back? In this episode, American Compass founder and chief economist Oren Cass sits down with commentator and author Noah Smith and a16z General Partner Erik Torenberg for a lively debate on the future of U.S. industry. They discuss the case for tariff-driven re-industrialization versus free-market approaches, the role of allies in trade policy, and what the numbers really show about manufacturing jobs, investment, and output. Along the way, they challenge each other's assumptions and explore what it would take to actually bring more production back to American soil. Timecodes:0:00 Introduction & Framing the Debate1:27 Oren Cass: Economic Philosophy & American Compass4:02 Manufacturing, Family, and Community5:00 Free Trade, Comparative Advantage, and Policy8:30 Tariffs: US vs. China and Historical Context9:30 Do Tariffs Help US Manufacturing?15:00 Data, Indicators, and Economic Predictions22:00 Theory, History, and the Role of Economics28:00 Trade Deficits, Scale, and Global Competition38:00 Negotiation, Game Theory, and Policy Tools46:00 Trade Deficits, Scale, and Global Competition1:03:23 Negotiating with Allies and the Limits of Tariff Threats Resources: Find Oren on X: https://https://x.com/oren_cassAmerican Compass: https://americancompass.org/Find Noah on X: https://x.com/noahpinionSubscribe to Noah's Substack: https://www.noahpinion.blog/ Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

The AI hardware race is heating up, and NVIDIA is still far ahead. What will it take to close the gap?In this episode, Dylan Patel (Founder & CEO, SemiAnalysis) joins Erin Price-Wright (General Partner, a16z), Guido Appenzeller (Partner, a16z), and host Erik Torenberg to break down the state of AI chips, data centers, and infrastructure strategy.We discuss:Why simply copying NVIDIA won't work, and what it takes to beat themHow custom silicon from Google, Amazon, and Meta could reshape the marketThe economics of AI model launches and the shift toward cost efficiencyInfrastructure bottlenecks: power, cooling, and the global supply chainThe rise of AI silicon startups and the challenges they faceExport controls, China's AI ambitions, and geopolitics in the chip raceBig tech's next moves: advice for leaders like Jensen Huang, Sundar Pichai, Mark Zuckerberg, and Elon MuskResources: Find Dylan on X: https://x.com/dylan522pFind Erin on X: https://x.com/espricewrightFind Guido on X: https://x.com/appenzLearn more about SemiAnalysis: https://semianalysis.com/dylan-patel/Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

Genie 3 can generate fully interactive, persistent worlds from just text, in real time.In this episode, Google DeepMind's Jack Parker-Holder (Research Scientist) and Shlomi Fruchter (Research Director) join Anjney Midha, Marco Mascorro, and Justine Moore of a16z, with host Erik Torenberg, to discuss how they built it, the breakthrough “special memory” feature, and the future of AI-powered gaming, robotics, and world models.They share:How Genie 3 generates interactive environments in real timeWhy its “special memory” feature is such a breakthroughThe evolution of generative models and emergent behaviorsInstruction following, text adherence, and model comparisonsPotential applications in gaming, robotics, simulation, and moreWhat's next: Genie 4, Genie 5, and the future of world models This conversation offers a first-hand look at one of the most advanced world models ever created. Timecodes: 0:00 Introduction & The Magic of Genie 30:41 Real-Time World Generation Breakthroughs1:22 The Team's Journey: From Genie 1 to Genie 35:03 Interactive Applications & Use Cases8:03 Special Memory and World Consistency12:29 Emergent Behaviors and Model Surprises18:37 Instruction Following and Text Adherence19:53 Comparing Genie 3 and Other Models21:25 The Future of World Models & Modality Convergence27:35 Downstream Applications and Open Questions31:42 Robotics, Simulation, and Real-World Impact39:33 Closing Thoughts & Philosophical Reflections Resources:Find Shlomi on X: https://x.com/shlomifruchterFind Jack on X: https://x.com/jparkerholderFind Anjney on X: https://x.com/anjneymidhaFind Justine on X: https://x.com/venturetwinsFind Marco on X: https://x.com/Mascobot Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

a16z General Partners Martin Casado and Anjney Midha join Erik Torenberg to unpack one of the most dramatic shifts in tech policy in recent memory: the move from “pause AI” to “win the AI race.”They trace the evolution of U.S. AI policy—from executive orders that chilled innovation, to the recent AI Action Plan that puts scientific progress and open source at the center. The discussion covers how technologists were caught off guard, why open source was wrongly equated to nuclear risk, and what changed the narrative—including China's rapid progress.The conversation also explores:How and why the AI discourse got captured by doomerismWhat “marginal risk” really means—and why it mattersWhy open source AI is not just ideology, but business strategyHow government, academia, and industry are realigning after a fractured few yearsThe effect of bad legislation—and what comes nextWhether you're a founder, policymaker, or just trying to make sense of AI's regulatory future, this episode breaks it all down.Timecodes:0:00 Introduction & Setting the Stage0:39 The Shift in AI Regulation Discourse2:10 Historical Context: Tech Waves & Policy6:39 The Open Source Debate13:39 The Chilling Effect & Global Competition15:00 Changing Sentiments on Open Source21:06 Open Source as Business Strategy28:50 The AI Action Plan: Reflections & Critique32:45 Alignment, Marginal Risk, and Policy41:30 The Future of AI Regulation & Closing ThoughtsResourcesFind Martin on X: https://x.com/martin_casadoFind Anjney on X: https://x.com/anjneymidhaStay Updated:Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

We're sharing an episode from ChinaTalk that dives into one of the biggest recent reversals in U.S. tech policy.The U.S. banned Nvidia's H20 AI chips to China in April. Now, just months later, they're being sold—with a 15% export fee. What happened? Why the reversal? And what does it mean for the future of AI competition between the U.S. and China?Chris Miller—author of Chip War—and Lennart Heim from RAND join ChinaTalk host Jordan Schneider to unpack the policy flip-flop, why China is publicly downplaying interest in the H20, and why high-bandwidth memory and semiconductor manufacturing tools may be even more important than the Nvidia chips themselves.Resources:Listen to more from ChinaTalk: https://link.chtbl.com/chinatalkCheck out the Horizon Fellowship to work in DC on emerging tech policy issues like AI chip export controls: https://horizonpublicservice.org/applications-open-for-2026-horizon-fellowship-cohort/Outro Music: It's a Shame, The Spinners, 1970

a16z partners Olivia and Justine Moore unpack the latest in consumer AI including: - Grok's “Imagine” and its instant, social-first creative tools- Google's Genie 3 and the future of 3D worlds- GPT-5: what's new, what's missing, and why some want their old chatbot back- AI-generated music from ElevenLabs- Olivia's vibecoded Jensen Huang selfie app Timecodes: 0:00 Introduction & This Week's Topics0:24 Grok Imagine: Social AI Image & Video Generation4:48 GPT-5 Release & GPT-4 Deprecation5:36 Comparing GPT-5 and GPT-4: Coding vs. Personality9:13 AI for Mental Health: Illinois Law & Industry Impact12:29 Genie 3: Interactive World Models from Google16:53 ElevenLabs Music Model: Licensed AI Music Generation19:16 Vibecoding: Consumer Experiments & Platform Evolution24:14 The Future of Vibecoding & AI Tools27:05 Conclusions  Resources:Find Olivia on X: https://x.com/omooretweetsFind Justine on X: https://x.com/venturetwinsRead Anish and Justine's  vibecoding post: https://a16z.com/specialized-app-gen-platforms/ Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

Fresh off the announcement of his move from Shopify to a16z, Alex Danco joins TBPN to talk about the “trade deal” that brought him here and his mission to make the firm's written content truly world class.He discusses why he believes writing still matters in the age of AI, how great prose can act as “power transfer technology” for founders, and why he's betting on the overlooked art of speechwriting. Alex also reflects on his years as a founder, investor, and longtime blogger, and shares the formats he's most excited to explore, from deal memos to launch speeches. Timecodes: 0:00 Joining a16z0:41 The Power of Writing & Speechwriting2:45 Reflections on Blogging & Communication5:10 Writing as Power Transfer Technology6:46 Formats & Content at a16z8:09 The Underrated Art of Speechwriting11:21 The Evolution of Blogging & Audience12:23 Looking Forward: Brand & Legacy Resources:Find Alex on X: https://x.com/Alex_DancoWatch TBPN: https://www.tbpn.com/Follow TBPN on X: https://x.com/tbpn Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

There's been a wave of M&A deals lately - Meta and Scale, Windsurf and Google - and a lot of it points to something bigger: how regulation, capital, and innovation are colliding in 2025.In this episode Erik Torenberg brings together Steven Sinofsky, former Microsoft Executive and Balaji Srinivasan, founder of the Network School, and author of the Network State to break it all down. From acquihires to “acquifires,” from FTC crackdowns to the deeper battle between the state and the network, this is a sharp conversation on the future of tech and power. ResourcesFind Balaji on X: https://x.com/balajisFind Steven on X: https://x.com/stevesiLearn more about The Network State: https://thenetworkstate.comLearn more about The Network School: https://ns.com Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

In this episode, Marc Andreessen joins TBPN for an unfiltered conversation spanning everything from ads in LLMs to why Apple's AI strategy may be risky for anyone not named Apple.Marc breaks down the current state of AI: why open source is resurging, how foundational research is (or isn't) turning into product, and whether we've hit the moment when phones start to fade as dominant platforms. He also shares his candid thoughts on Meta's wearable wins, Vision Pro's imperfections, and how humor and deep research are his two favorite use cases for AI today.Timecodes:0:00 Intro  2:41  The Pace of AI and Technology Cycles  4:03  Research vs. Productization in AI Companies  5:15  Apple's Strategy: Last Mover Advantage  7:09  The Future Beyond Smartphones  10:23  Open Source AI: Progress and Challenges  13:49  Ads in AI: Business Models and User Experience  15:52  Legal Frameworks for AI and Data  17:53  Lightning Round: How Mark Uses AI  19:01  Breaking into Venture Capital in 2025  20:34  M&A, Survivorship Bias, and Company Resilience  ResourcesWatch TBPN: https://www.tbpn.com/Marc on X:   https://x.com/pmarcaMarc's Substack: https://pmarca.substack.com/

ChatGPT-5 just launched, marking a major milestone for OpenAI and the entire AI ecosystem.Fresh off the live stream, Erik Torenberg was joined in the studio by  three people who played key roles in making this model a reality:Christina Kim, Researcher at OpenAI, who leads the core models team on post-trainingIsa Fulford, Researcher at OpenAI, who leads deep research and the ChatGPT agent team on post-trainingSarah Wang, General Partner at a16z, who helped lead our investment in OpenAI since 2021They discuss what's actually new in ChatGPT-5—from major leaps in reasoning, coding, and creative writing to meaningful improvements in trustworthiness, behavior, and post-training techniques.We also discuss:How GPT-5 was trained, including RL environments and why data quality matters more than everThe shift toward agentic workflows—what “agents” really are, why async matters, and how it's empowering a new golden age of the “ideas guy”What GPT-5 means for builders, startups, and the broader AI ecosystem going forwardWhether you're an AI researcher, founder, or curious user, this is the deep-dive conversation you won't want to miss.Timecodes:0:00 ChatGPT Origins1:57 Model Capabilities & Coding Improvements4:00 Model Behaviors & Sycophancy6:15 Usage, Pricing & Startup Opportunities8:03 Broader Impact & AGI Discourse16:56 Creative Writing & Model Progress32:37 Training, Data & Reflections36:21 Company Growth & Culture41:39 Closing Thoughts & MissionResourcesFind Christina on X: https://x.com/christinahkimFind Isa on X: https://x.com/isafulfFind Sarah on X: https://x.com/sarahdingwangStay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures

What happens when a startup becomes a giant—and then has to reinvent itself all over again?In this episode, Martin Casado sits down with Raghu Raghuram (former CEO of VMware) and Jeetu Patel (President and CPO at Cisco) for a deep, tactical conversation on scaling, disruption, and navigating transformation from the inside. They share hard-won lessons from leading two of the most iconic infrastructure companies in tech—through waves like virtualization, cloud, containers, and now AI.They cover:How to keep innovation alive inside large companiesWhy the best companies operate with a founder's mindset, even without foundersThe difference between selling to buyers vs. practitionersWhy the story is the strategy, and how to tell it at scaleHow Cisco is rebuilding its startup DNA in the age of AIIf you're building or leading through a major tech wave, this episode is a playbook. Timecodes:0:00 Introduction 2:02 Weapons of Mass Disruption: Abstractions, Business Models, and Cloud  5:57 Cisco's Missed Cloud Wave & Resetting for Innovation  6:39 Operating Like a Startup: Speed, Scale, and Leadership  10:00 Go-to-Market Challenges: Fencing Off Innovation  11:04 Organic vs. Inorganic Growth: Lessons from VMware  12:04 The 10x Rule and Competing with Incumbents  14:39 Structuring for Disruption: Two-Pizza Teams and Ideal Customer Profiles  18:43 Storytelling as Strategy: Galvanizing Large Organizations  19:42 The AI Wave: Consumerization and Infrastructure Demands  25:34 Founders vs. Operators: Leading Transformations  31:47 Product-Led Organizations: From Sales to Product Focus  34:35 The Future of Infrastructure: AI, Market Size, and Vertical Integration  39:34 Timing, Market, Team, Product, Brand, and Scale  41:19 Authenticity, Opportunity, and Final Thoughts   Resources:Find Martin on X: https://x.com/martin_casadoFind Raghu on X: https://x.com/raghuraghuramFind Jeetu on X: https://x.com/jpatel41 Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

In this episode, Erik Torenberg is joined in the studio by Dwarkesh Patel and Noah Smith to explore one of the biggest questions in tech: what exactly is artificial general intelligence (AGI), and how close are we to achieving it?They break down:Competing definitions of AGI — economic vs. cognitive vs. “godlike”Why reasoning alone isn't enough — and what capabilities models still lackThe debate over substitution vs. complementarity between AI and human laborWhat an AI-saturated economy might look like — from growth projections to UBI, sovereign wealth funds, and galaxy-colonizing robotsHow AGI could reshape global power, geopolitics, and the future of workAlong the way, they tackle failed predictions, surprising AI limitations, and the philosophical and economic consequences of building machines that think, and perhaps one day, act, like us. Timecodes: 0:00 Intro0:33 Defining AGI and General Intelligence2:38 Human and AI Capabilities Compared7:00 AI Replacing Jobs and Shifting Employment15:00 Economic Growth Trajectories After AGI17:15 Consumer Demand in an AI-Driven Economy31:00 Redistribution, UBI, and the Future of Income31:58 Human Roles and the Evolving Meaning of Work41:21 Technology, Society, and the Human Future45:43 AGI Timelines and Forecasting Horizons54:04 The Challenge of Predicting AI's Path57:37 Nationalization, Geopolitics, and the Global AI Race1:07:10 Brand and Network Effects in AI Dominance1:09:31 Final Thoughts  Resources: Find Dwarkesh on X: https://x.com/dwarkesh_spFind Dwarkesh on YT: https://www.youtube.com/c/DwarkeshPatelSubscribe to Dwarkesh's Substack: https://www.dwarkesh.com/Find Noah on X: https://x.com/noahpinionSubscribe to Noah's Substack: https://www.noahpinion.blog/ Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

What really caused the breakdown between tech and media—and what comes next?Erik Torenberg sits down with Balaji Srinivasan (entrepreneur, investor, and author of The Network State) to explore the long-building conflict between Silicon Valley and legacy journalism. Balaji explains how the collapse of traditional media business models gave rise to political capture, clickbait, and adversarial coverage of the tech industry.They discuss why “going direct” is no longer optional, how tech became the villain in establishment narratives, and what it would take to build a new truth infrastructure - from decentralized content creation to cryptographic verification.This episode covers power, distribution, and the future of media, with a signature mix of historical insight, social analysis, and Balaji's forward-looking frameworks.Timecodes: 0:00 Introduction 1:26 The Media vs. Tech Conflict2:11 The Collapse of Journalism Revenue2:39 Rise of Wokeness and Political Realignment6:50 State vs. Network: A New Framework9:00 The Power Structure of Media Institutions19:25 The Role of Distribution and the Internet29:20 The Social War: Red vs. Blue America30:05 X Day and the Shift in Social Media Power42:56 Strategies for Technologists: Go Direct48:36 The Importance of Individual Creators1:10:00 Decentralized Truth and the Ledger of Record1:36:00 The Future of Media, Democracy, and Equality1:37:08 Conclusion & Final ThoughtsResourcesFind Balaji on X: https://x.com/balajisStay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

What happens when AI starts generating content for everyone—and no one wants to watch it?In this episode, MSNBC's Chris Hayes and ad tech veteran Antonio García Martínez join a16z General Partner, Erik Torenberg to unpack the shifting economics of attention: from the rise of “AI slop” and spammy feeds to the difference between what we want to pay attention to and what platforms push on us.They explore:How AI changes what gets created and what gets seenWhy internet ads still mostly suckThe return of group chats—and the slow death of mass cultureBased on Chris's new book The Sirens Call, this is a candid look at what AI might amplify or break in our online lives. Timecodes:0:00 Introduction 1:47 Meet the Guests: Chris Hayes & Antonio Garcia Martinez3:01 The Economics of Attention & AI Slop6:38 Acquisition vs. Retention: The Attention Challenge10:01 Fame, Identity, and Social Media Fragmentation13:21 The Group Chat Solution & Privacy16:01 Business Models, Community, and Technology19:01 Mass Culture, Fragmentation, and the Algorithm23:01 Ad Tech, Personalization, and Advertising Effectiveness29:01 The Future: AI, Growth, and Abundance Resources: Find Chris on X: https://x.com/chrislhayesFind Antonio on X: https://x.com/antoniogmLearn more about Chris' book ‘The Sirens' Call': https://sirenscallbook.com/Learn more about Antonio's book ‘Chaos Monkeys': https://www.harpercollins.com/products/chaos-monkeys-antonio-garcia-martinez?variant=32207601532962 Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

a16z General Partners Erik Torenberg and Martin Casado sit down with technologist and investor Balaji Srinivasan to explore how the metaphors we use to describe AI—whether as god, swarm, tool, or oracle—reveal as much about us as they do about the technology itself.Balaji, best known for his work in crypto and network states, also brings a deep background in machine learning. Together, the trio unpacks the evolution of AI discourse, from monotheistic visions of a singular AGI to polytheistic interpretations shaped by culture and context. They debate the practical and philosophical: the current limits of AI, why prompts function like high-dimensional programs, and what it really takes to “close the loop” in AI reasoning.This is a systems-level conversation on belief, control, infrastructure, and the architectures that might govern future societies. Timecodes:0:00 Introduction: The Polytheistic AGI Framework1:46 Personal Journeys in AI and Crypto3:18 Monotheistic vs. Polytheistic AGI: Competing Paradigms8:20 The Limits of AI: Chaos, Turbulence, and Predictability9:29 Platonic Ideals and Real-World Systems14:10 Decentralized AI and the End of Fast Takeoff14:34 Surprises in AI Progress: Language, Locomotion, and Double Descent25:45 Prompting, Verification, and the Age of the Phrase29:44 AI, Crypto, and the Grounding Problem34:26 Visual vs. Verbal: Where AI Excels and Struggles37:19 The Challenge of Markets, Politics, and Adversarial Systems40:11 Amplified Intelligence: AI as a Force Multiplier43:37 The Polytheistic Counterargument: Convergence and Specialization48:17 AI's Impact on Jobs: Specialists, Generalists, and the Future of Work57:36 Security, Drones, and Digital Borders1:03:41 AI, Power, and the Balance of Control1:06:33 The Coming Anti-AI Backlash1:09:10 Global Implications: Labor, Politics, and the Future Resources:Find Balaji on X: https://x.com/balajisFind Martin on X: https://x.com/martin_casado Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

On this episode of The Ben & Marc Show, a16z co-founders Marc Andreessen and Ben Horowitz sit down with Erik Torenberg— General Partner at a16z and founder of the media company Turpentine—to unpack how the internet shattered the old media order and reshaped the way power works in America.What begins as a look at the evolution of media quickly becomes something bigger: a conversation about truth, trust, and the collapse of institutional authority. They explore how social media became both an x-ray and an engine, why authenticity now beats polish, and how the rules of politics, and journalism, have permanently changed.Together, they break down:-Why 2017 marked a structural break between tech and the press-Trump's real training ground-The tension between objectivity, activism, and “speaking truth to power”-Why podcasters. not pundits, are setting the agenda- How the barbell strategy is reshaping media: short-form virality meets long-form depthWith stops at Watergate, the rise of Rogan, the fall of legacy gatekeepers, and the media playbooks behind Obama, Trump, and the Kardashians—this episode explores how we got here, what's next, and what it means for founders, voters, and anyone trying to build (or tell) a story. Timecodes: 0:00 Introduction0:55 The Evolution of Media: From Centralization to Fragmentation2:34 The Internet's Impact on Traditional Media4:06 Unionization and Technological Change in Media6:39 Oversupply and Competition in News Organizations8:44 The Changing Role and Ideology of Journalism11:46 Speak Truth to Power: Conflicts in Journalism13:39 The 2016 Election and the Collapse of Media Trust23:20 Martin Gurri and the Crisis of Authority31:34 Decentralization: From the 1970s to Social Media48:06 Trump, Reality TV, and the New Media Playbook59:10 Drama, Authenticity, and the Barbell Effect in Media1:16:40 Podcasts, Direct Communication, and the Future of Authority1:34:48 Advice for Founders and the Importance of Personal Branding1:37:35 Conclusion & Final Thoughts Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

It can take more than 15 years to permit and build a new mine in the United States - yet nearly every modern technology we rely on, from smartphones to fighter jets to AI data centers, depends on a steady supply of critical minerals.In this episode, Erik Torenberg is joined in the studio by Turner Caldwell, founder of Mariana Minerals, along with American Dynamism general partner Erin Price-Wright and partner Ryan McEntush.Turner spent nearly a decade at Tesla, working his way upstream from factory design to battery materials and mining. Now, he's building a new kind of mining and refining company - vertically integrated and software-first- designed to meet the demands of our industrial future.We get into why the industry is so broken, what it actually takes to turn rocks into usable materials, and how the U.S. can rebuild its capacity to mine, refine, and manufacture the things that matter most. Timecodes: 00:00 Introduction to Critical Minerals00:45 The Importance of Mining in Modern Technology00:58 Meet Turner Caldwell and Marianna Minerals03:02 The Mining and Refining Process05:10 Challenges in the Mining Industry07:11 Turner's Journey from Tesla to Marianna15:31 The Role of AI and ML in Mining22:00 Geopolitical and Talent Pool Dynamics23:46 Challenges in Junior Mining Exploration25:30 Mariana's Product and Approach25:47 Leveraging Technology in Mining and Construction28:29 Optimizing Refining Processes with AI37:31 The Importance of Critical Minerals41:18 Permitting and Regulatory Challenges46:08 Future Strategies and International Expansion46:53 Conclusion and Future Outlook Resources: Find Turner on X :https://x.com/tbc415Find Erin on X: https://x.com/espricewrightFind Ryan on X: https://x.com/rmcentush Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

Is AI the Fourth Pillar of Infrastructure?Infrastructure doesn't go away — it layers. And today, AI is emerging as a new foundational layer alongside compute, storage, and networking.Erik Torenberg interviews a16z's Martin Casado, Jennifer Li, and Matt Bornstein breaking down how infrastructure is evolving in the age of AI — from models and agents to developer tools and shifting user behavior.We dive into what infra actually means today, how it differs from enterprise, and why software itself is being disrupted. Plus, we explore the rise of technical users as buyers, what makes infra companies defensible, and how past waves — from the cloud to COVID to AI — are reshaping how we build and invest. Timestamps: (00:00) Introduction (01:49) Defining Infrastructure in the AI Era(03:15) The Fourth Pillar: AI's Role in Infrastructure(06:01) Historical Context and Evolution of Infrastructure(08:20) The Impact of AI on Software Development(10:18) Investment Strategies and Market Dynamics(17:02) Developer Tools and AI Integration(20:57) Defensibility in the AI Landscape(22:16) Founders' Intuition and Industry Progress(22:26) Defensibility in AI Infrastructure(24:00) Expansion and Contraction Phases in the Industry(24:35) The Role of Layers in Market Consolidation(27:43) The Future of AI Models and Specialization(29:27) The Decade of AI Agents(29:54) Context Engineering and New Infrastructure(34:23) The Evolution of Software Development(42:13) Horizontal vs. Vertical Integration in AI(43:54) Conclusion and Final Thoughts Resources: Find Martin on X: https://x.com/martin_casadoFind Jennifer on X: https://x.com/JenniferHliFind Matt on X: https://x.com/BornsteinMatt Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

Today we're sharing an episode from American Optimist featuring Marc Andreessen in conversation with Joe Lonsdale, recorded live at the inaugural Ronald Reagan Economic Forum.They explore one of the most urgent and complex questions of our time: Can AI and robotics catalyze a new era of American industrial strength—and how do we ensure the entire country, including rural communities, shares in the upside?Marc walks through the history of U.S. industrialization, the lessons of tariffs and trade from leaders like McKinley, and how America's shift to a services-based economy helped fuel our current urban-rural divide. The conversation spans immigration policy, housing, education, energy, and the path to a true AI-powered manufacturing revival—touching on what needs to change and how.This episode is a must-listen for anyone thinking about the future of American productivity, growth, and leadership in the age of AI. Resources:  Find Marc on X: https://x.com/pmarcaFollow Joe on X: https://x.com/jtlonsdaleYou can find his writings here: https://blog.joelonsdale.com/ Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://twitter.com/stephsmithioPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

U.S. per capita energy usage peaked in 1973. Since then? Flat. Meanwhile, China's per capita energy use has grown 9x.Today, AI, EVs, manufacturing, and data centers are driving demand for more electricity than ever—and our grid can't keep up.In this episode, a16z general partners David Ulevitch and Erin Price-Wright, along with investing partner Ryan McEntush from the American Dynamism team, join us to unpack:– How America's grid fell behind– Why we "forgot how to build" power infrastructure– The role of batteries, solar, nuclear, and software in reshaping the grid– How AI is both stressing and helping the system– What it'll take to build a more resilient, decentralized, and dynamic energy futureWhether you're a founder, policymaker, or just someone who wants their lights to stay on, this conversation covers what's broken—and how to fix it.Resources: Find David on X: https://x.com/daviduFind Erin on X: https://x.com/espricewrightFind Ryan on X: https://x.com/rmcentushTimestamps: 00:00 Introduction01:05 Challenges and Solutions for Modernizing the Grid 01:56 Decentralized Energy and Technological Innovations 02:34 Grid Capacity and Transformer Issues 04:10 The Role of AI and Software in Energy Management 04:55 Policy and Workforce Challenges 08:44 Texas vs. New York: A Tale of Two Grids 10:31 The Importance of Battery Technology 13:11 Balancing Energy Sources: Solar, Nuclear, and More 14:54 The Future of Energy Consumption and Grid Management 19:45 Wind Power: The Forgotten Energy Source 20:53 Challenges in Grid Monitoring and Communication 22:19 Load Forecasting and Weather Impact 23:49 Nuclear Energy: Current State and Future Prospects 26:44 Small Modular Reactors and Micro Reactors 30:55 Technological Innovations in Grid Management 35:41 The Role of AI in Regulatory Processes 41:39 National Security and the Electrical GridStay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

In this episode, a16z General Partner Martin Casado sits down with Box cofounder and CEO Aaron Levie to talk about how AI is changing not just software, but the structure and speed of work itself.They unpack how enterprise adoption of AI is different from the consumer wave, why incumbents may be better positioned than people think, and how the role of the individual contributor is already shifting from executor to orchestrator. From vibe coding and agent UX to why startups should still go vertical, this is a candid, strategic  conversation about what it actually looks like to build and operate in an AI-native enterprise.Aaron also shares how Box is using AI internally today, and what might happen when agents outnumber employees. Resources: Find Aaron on X: https://x.com/levieFind Martin on X: https://x.com/martin_casado Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

This week on the a16z Podcast, we're sharing a feed drop from Impact Theory with Tom Bilyeu, featuring a wide-ranging conversation with a16z cofounder Ben Horowitz.Artificial intelligence isn't just a tool — it's a tectonic shift. In this episode, Ben joins Tom to break down what AI really is (and isn't), where it's taking us, and why it matters. They dive into the historical parallels, the looming policy battles, and how innovation cycles have always created — not destroyed — opportunity.From the future of work and education to the global AI race and the role of blockchain in preserving trust, Ben shares hard-won insights from decades at the forefront of technological disruption. It's a masterclass in long-term thinking for anyone building, investing, or navigating what's coming next.Resources: Listen to more episodes of Impact Theory with Tom Bilyeu: https://link.chtbl.com/impacttheoryWatch full conversations on YouTube: youtube.com/tombilyeuFollow Tom on Instagram: @tombilyeuLearn more about Impact Theory: impacttheory.comTimecodes: 00:00 Introduction to Impact Theory with Ben Horowitz01:12 The Disruptive Power of AI02:01 Understanding AI and Its Implications04:19 The Future of Jobs in an AI-Driven World06:52 Human Intelligence vs. Artificial Intelligence10:31 The Role of AI in Society21:41 AI and the Future of Work35:07 The AI Race: US vs. China41:25 The Importance of Blockchain in an AI World44:26 Government Regulation and Blockchain45:16 The Need for Stablecoins45:45 Energy Challenges and AI49:53 Market Structure Bill and Token Regulation53:51 Blockchain's Trust and Adoption01:04:17 Elon Musk's Government Involvement01:12:03 Historical Figures and Modern Parallels01:18:41 AI and Creativity in Business01:21:29 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsStay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures

a16z Crypto General Partners Ali Yahya, Arianna Simpson, and Erik Torenberg break down what's actually working in crypto today - starting with the rise of stablecoins as a real-world payments layer. They discuss how stablecoins are being adopted by companies like Stripe and SpaceX, why regulatory shifts are opening new doors for crypto startups, and how AI and crypto are beginning to intersect.They also cover:The future of decentralized social networksWhere Ethereum, Solana, and others stand todayMisconceptions still holding the space backA grounded conversation on what's real, what's hype, and where crypto's finally finding traction.Timecodes:00:00 Introduction to Crypto and AI00:16 The Rise of Stable Coins00:40 Current State of Crypto02:02 Deep Dive into Stable Coins07:39 Institutional and Consumer Adoption22:09 The Future of Crypto and AI29:13 Misconceptions and Policy Changes33:06 Smart Contract Platforms36:14 Closing ThoughtsResources: Find Ali on X: https://x.com/alive_ethFind Arianna on X: https://x.com/AriannaSimpsonStay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures

On this episode, taken from The Ben & Marc Show, a16z co-founders Marc Andreessen and Ben Horowitz dive deep into the unfiltered story behind the founding of Andreessen Horowitz—and how they set out to reinvent venture capital itself. For the first time, Marc and Ben walk through the origins, strategy, and philosophy behind building a world-class venture capital firm designed for the future—not just the next fund. They reveal how they broke industry norms with a bold brand, a full-stack support model, and a long-term commitment to backing exceptional builders—anchored in the radical idea that founders deserved real support, not just checks. Joining them to guide the conversation is Erik Torenberg—Andreessen Horowitz's newest General Partner—who makes his Ben & Marc Show moderating debut. Erik is a technology entrepreneur, investor, and founder of the media company Turpentine.Together, they explore: - Why traditional VC needed reinvention - How a16z scaled with a platform model, not a partner model - The "barbell strategy" reshaping venture capital today - Why venture remains a human craft, even in the age of AI Timecodes: 00:00 - Intro 01:00 - Why Traditional Venture Capital Was Broken 03:05 - Marc on Discovering VC and Its Legends 05:12 - Surviving the Dot-Com Crash and Angel Investing Collapse 07:05 - Helping Founders Raise Venture / Fix VC Relationships 08:47 - The a16z Strategy: Building a Support Platform 12:07 - First Fund Wins: Skype, Instagram, Slack, Okta 12:50 - Building a 'World-Dominating Monster' 15:00 - The Sushi Boat VC Problem 18:07 - Treating LPs Differently 21:40 - Marc and Ben's Working Relationship 23:30 - Updating a16z's Media Strategy for the Social Era 27:20 - History of the Decentralized Media Environment30:36 - Decline of Corporate Brands and Going Direct 36:06 - Naming the Firm 40:13 - Building the a16z 'Cinematic Universe' of Talent 42:16 - Creating a Federated Model 51:02 - Deciding to Market the Firm 53:26 - Recruiting General Partners 56:33 - Evolution to Full-Stack Companies 01:03:53 - The Barbell Theory: The Death of Mid-Sized VCs01:11:50 - Why Venture Capital Should Stay Overfunded 01:19:50 - When a16z Knew It Could Be Top Tier 01:25:58 - Venture Capital is an Art, Not a ScienceResources:Marc on X: https://twitter.com/pmarca Marc's Substack: https://pmarca.substack.com/Ben on X: https://twitter.com/bhorowitz Erik on X: https://x.com/eriktorenberg Erik's Substack: https://eriktorenberg.substack.com/

Taken from the AI + a16z podcast, Arcjet CEO David Mytton sits down with a16z partner Joel de la Garza to discuss the increasing complexity of managing who can access websites, and other web apps, and what they can do there. A primary challenge is determining whether automated traffic is coming from bad actors and troublesome bots, or perhaps AI agents trying to buy a product on behalf of a real customer.Joel and David dive into the challenge of analyzing every request without adding latency, and how faster inference at the edge opens up new possibilities for fraud prevention, content filtering, and even ad tech.Topics include:Why traditional threat analysis won't work for the AI-powered webThe need for full-context security checksHow to perform sub-second, cost-effective inferenceThe wide range of potential actors and actions behind any given visitAs David puts it, lower inference costs are key to letting apps act on the full context window — everything you know about the user, the session, and your application. Follow everyone on social media:David MyttonJoel de la GarzaCheck out everything a16z is doing with artificial intelligence here, including articles, projects, and more podcasts. Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures. 

What if now is the best time in decades to start a company?In this episode, taken from Speedrun, a16z's accelerator for early-stage founders, Marc Andreessen joins games General Partner Jonathan Lai to make the case that we're entering a once-in-a-generation window for innovation. From the rise of AI to the cultural and policy shifts reshaping the global economy, Marc explains why the next four years present a rare opportunity for builders to seize the moment.Along the way, they discuss market timing, platform shifts, and what sets successful founders apart - including lessons from Steve Jobs, insights into AI's impact on storytelling and games, and why being “too early” can feel just like being wrong.Timecodes0:00 Lessons from Steve Jobs on Leadership & Innovation2:27 The AI Boom: How It's Changing Everything5:52 Market Timing: The #1 Factor in Startup Success8:13 Why the Next 4 Years Are Critical for Tech11:30 AI & The Future of Gaming, Storytelling & Virtual Worlds14:28  Why Some Startups Fail While Others Explode17:11  The Role of Founders in the AI EraResources: Find Marc on X: https://x.com/pmarcaFind Jonathan on X: https://x.com/TocelotStay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

Why does seriousness feel radical today? a16z General Partner Katherine Boyle joins The LaBossiere Podcast to explore what it means to build for the national interest—and why that starts with purpose.Katherine, part of the American Dynamism team at a16z, shares how we got to a place where public service became uncool, how tech can help rebuild trust in government, and why suffering, friction, and responsibility are essential ingredients for growth. From the collapse of civic duty to the rise of meme-driven politics, they dig into the cultural forces shaping America—and the opportunity to reclaim a sense of mission.They also discuss why Silicon Valley is more idea than place, what journalists and investors have in common, and why being laughed at might be the clearest sign you're on the right path.Timecodes: 0:00 - Intro4:48 The Decline in Public Service7:47 Making Government Cool Again10:07 Silicon Valley's Aversion to National Security13:15 Positive Sum vs Zero Sum Cultures16:27 China, Authoritarianism, and Doing Hard Things19:27 What Makes America Special?23:03 Silicon Valley and the “Real Economy”26:28 Investing in Mature Markets29:08 Vanna White and The Wheel of Fortune30:27 Journalism and Loneliness32:52 - Time and Suffering38:10 - Seriousness and Purpose41:11 - Is Culture Downstream of Technology?42:48 - Propaganda and Coolness as a Strategic Asset44:40 - Florida, Texas, and Regulatory Arbitrage47:51 - DC, Silicon Valley, and Florida50:20 - What Should More People Be Thinking AboutResources: Find Katherine on X: https://x.com/KTmBoyleFind Alex on X: https://x.com/adlabossiereListen to more from The LaBossiere Podcast:YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/3QDLQFt⁠Apple: ⁠https://apple.co/478Be6M⁠Spotify: ⁠https://spoti.fi/3sfiFiE⁠Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on X: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

In this episode of ‘This Week in Consumer', a16z General Partners Anish Acharya and Erik Torenberg are joined by Steven Sinofsky - Board Partner at a16z and former President of Microsoft's Windows division - for a deep dive on how today's AI moment mirrors (and diverges from) past computing transitions.They explore whether we're at the “Windows 3.1” stage of AI or still in the earliest innings, why consumer adoption is outpacing developer readiness, and how frameworks like partial autonomy, jagged intelligence, and “vibe coding” are shaping what gets built next. They also dig into where the real bottlenecks lie, not in the tech, but in how companies, products, and people work. Resources: Find Anish on X: https://x.com/illscienceFind Steven on X: https://x.com/stevesiWatch Andrej Karpathy's talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LCEmiRjPEtQ Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

What if virality wasn't a tactic — but the entire product?In this episode, a16z General Partners Erik Torenberg and Bryan Kim sit down with Roy Lee, cofounder and CEO of Cluely, one of the most talked-about consumer AI startups of 2025. Cluely didn't raise a mega round or drop a feature suite to get traction - it broke through by turning distribution into design: launching viral short-form videos, pushing polarizing product drops, and building in public with speed and spectacle.We cover:– Why virality is Cluely's moat– Building a brand-native AI interface– The Gen Z founder mindset– What most startups get wrong about attention– Why creators are the new product managers– Cluely's long-term vision for ambient AICluely is a glimpse at the next generation of startups,  where the line between product and performance is disappearing. Timecodes: 00:00 Introduction 01:07 Early Success02:02 Roy's Journey: From College Kid to Tech Universe04:37 The Turning Point: Harvard and Beyond06:57 Building Cluey: The Early Days08:27 The Viral Strategy: Mastering Algorithms13:56 The 50 Interns Experiment15:30 The Investment Journey: Roy and Bryan's Partnership19:20 Momentum as a Moat: The Future of AI Companies20:32 The Evolution of Product Strategy in the AI Era21:19 The Importance of Speed and Adaptability22:48 The Role of Distribution in Modern Startups24:26 Roy's Journey and Product Development25:25 The Power of User Data and Feedback26:58 Innovative Marketing and Distribution Tactics28:25 The Future of AI Integration and Translucent Overlays32:15 Controversial Marketing and Authenticity34:01 The Impact of Radical Transparency36:42 The Changing Landscape of Professionalism38:26 Concluding Thoughts and Future VisionResources: Find Roy on X: https://x.com/im_roy_leeFind Bryan on X: https://x.com/kirbyman01Learn more about Cluely: http://cluely.com/ Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

In this episode, general partner Chris Dixon joins economist and author Tyler Cowen to explore the themes behind Chris's book, Read, Write, Own: Building the Next Era of the Internet.They trace the internet's evolution from open, decentralized beginnings to today's consolidated platforms—and ask: how can we build something better? From stablecoins, tokenized payments, and open blockchains to AI's impact on coding, media, and politics, this wide-ranging conversation dives deep into how technologies like crypto and AI could help redistribute power online and reshape the future of ownership and innovation.The two also debate:Whether banks and legacy institutions will adopt stablecoinsThe long-term role of NFTs and digital property rightsHow AI might rewrite venture capital, education, and economic planningWhether we're heading toward a creative renaissance—or a world of AI-generated monocultureListen to similar conversations, listen to web3 with a16z: https://web3-with-a16z.simplecast.com/ Resources: Listen to Conversations with Tyler: https://conversationswithtyler.com/Find Chris on X: https://x.com/cdixonFind Tyler on X: https://x.com/tylercowenJoin a16z's Crypto Substack:https://a16zcrypto.substack.com/ Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

In this episode, a16z general partner Bryan Kim joins TBPN hosts John Coogan and Jordi Hays to discuss the recent launch of Cluely , a consumer AI product. The conversation covers early traction, evaluating distribution and momentum, and how investors assess go-to-market strategies in emerging AI applications. Resources: Find Bryan on X: https://x.com/kirbyman01Watch TBPN: https://www.tbpn.com/ Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.