Austin Next

Mushrooms, coffee, and diapers. It's not the start of weird joke, but the the innovation arc of Tero Isokauppila, one of the most uniquely disruptive founders at the convergence of bio and consumer goods. From building the $2B mushroom coffee category at Four Sigmatic to launching HIRO, the world's first fungi-based diaper, Tero's work reflects something deeper; how Austin's convergence of culture, capital, and cross-sector energy is creating the next innovation frontier.02:18 – From Farm Kid to Mushroom Category King05:45 – The Biology of Fungi as Platform Tech09:03 – Why America Is Mushroom-Illiterate10:38 – Product Before Mission: Lessons from Tesla and HIRO16:35 – CPG vs Biotech: Funding, Moats, and Returns25:57 – Why Austin Became a CPG Powerhouse31:39 – Tech and CPG: Still Separate Worlds in Austin35:41 – Frontier Cities Need Cultural + Sector Convergence1:01:15 – Manufacturing's Real Bottlenecks (and Myths)1:05:06 – “What's Next Austin?”: Ego Death, Rebirth, and Maturity Tero Isokauppila: LinkedIn, YouTubeFour SigmaticHIRO -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedInEcosystem Metacognition Substack

What does it mean to build the future of Bio & Health at the frontier, and why is Austin the place to do it? Recorded live at Health Supernova, this episode explores the deep structural shifts underway in bio, health, and tech. From trillion-dollar ambitions to FDA bottlenecks, from digital-first hospitals to the rise of cowboy talent in Bio & Health, Austin is staking a claim not as a follower but as the system and stack that comes next.  Episode HighlightsAustin's Bio & Health Frontier ThesisCan Austin build what healthcare won't?FDA still runs on PDFsWhat would it take to build a trillion-dollar bio company?Frontier talent are cowboysCost of the biotech winterDigital-first hospital as a living labWhy bio needs platforms, not just transformational assetsIntegration is the real bottleneckWhat's Next, Austin Bio & Health?Steve Hahn: “The next major company that disrupts medicine and brings us 20, 30 years advanced over the next year.”Charley Taylor: “Re-envisioning what healthcare, academic medicine can look like”Micha Breakstone: “Make Austin into a real hub at the intersection of AI and biotech” -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedInEcosystem Metacognition Substack

Is Bitcoin just a financial instrument, or is it a wedge into the future of energy, policy, and power? Brian Morgenstern, head of public policy at Riot Platforms, lays out how mining is becoming critical infrastructure and why the US can't afford to fall behind. From sovereign wealth strategies to regulatory fragmentation, this conversation unpacks how Bitcoin could reshape geopolitical leverage and why Texas may be at the center of it. Episode HighlightsMining as energy monetizationBitcoin as a strategic reserveThe sovereign wealth fund questionTax policy throttles adoptionWhy stablecoins are infrastructureBitcoin's edge over other cryptoFragmented and reactive regulationNuclear's resurgence via AI demandWhat's Next Austin?“Bitcoin miners, AI, energy, all getting married in Texas to make the US the leader of the world.”Guest LinksBrian MorgensternRiot Platforms -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedInEcosystem Metacognition Substack

Specificity isn't just a design choice. It's the differentiator when inches matter. Nick Tippmann, founding partner of TipTop VC, explains how vertical AI is rewriting the software industry by going deeper, not wider. From the transition beyond SaaS to the gray zone between foundational models and high-stakes applications, we explore how vertical AI can transform laggard industries and why Austin might lead the race.  Episode HighlightsWhat Vertical AI Really MeansSpecificity as the New MoatFounders, Not Just ModelsWhen General AI FailsSeed-Strapping Real or NotRewriting Pricing LogicVertical AI Talent MixRedefining TAM in Niche MarketsScaling without OverspendingWhat's Next Austin?"Austin becomes a global hub for vertical AI winners with the rich combo of the enterprise SaaS lineage, the critical industries that are based here, the talent from the previous winners, the emerging talent from the universities, and more and more experienced operators and founders moving here for their second act"Nick TippmannTipTop VC -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedInEcosystem Metacognition Substack

Innovation does not scale on size alone. It accelerates on the connective threads of an ecosystem, from curated founder groups to open networks and through shared stories and honest champions. Brian Hall, incoming President of the Austin Chapter of Entrepreneurs' Organization, joins us to explore what actually drives trust, access, and scale in a thriving tech hub.Episode HighlightsRole of Ecosystem Connective TissueFounder Forums and Peer AccountabilityThird Rooms vs Third SpacesDepth Over Volume in RelationshipsTime Scarcity in Founder SupportWhy Healthy Ecosystems ScaleNavigating Fragmentation in AustinGatekeeping and Startup AccessScaling Founder InfrastructureWhat's Next Austin? “Healthy things grow. And that starts with an individual, but then it goes to the city and beyond.”Episode LinksBrian Hall: LinkedIn, X/TwitterEO Austin; Traverse Legal; TraverseGC; TraverseConcierge -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedInEcosystem Metacognition Substack

The $6 trillion chemical industry is on the verge of a revolution as biology moves from the doctor's office to the industrial zone. Veronica Breckenridge, Founder and Managing Partner of First Bight Ventures, is investing in early-stage bio manufacturing companies while building the ecosystem to catalyze their growth.  We discuss the tech powering the revolution, why Houston's first principles position the region to own the sector, and how Austin's innovation can help supercharge it. Episode HighlightsFirst Bight Ventures: Investing in Industrial BioDisrupting a $6 Trillion Chemical IndustryScaling Platform Molecules for Real-World ImpactCrossing Industrial Bio's "Valley of Death"Houston's Chemical Engineering AdvantageCapital Efficiency and Scale-Up StrategiesHow AI Is Accelerating Biotech DiscoveryBuilding Pilot Facilities and Collaborative EcosystemsUnlocking a Texas Bio Manufacturing HubWhat's Next Austin & Houston?"Texas should create a consortium...we're going to own bio-manufacturing" Episode LinksVeronica BreckenridgeFirst Bight Ventures -----------------------------------------TEDx SouthCongress Registration-------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedInEcosystem Metacognition Substack

At a hinge point when tech leadership determines the balance of geopolitical power, deep tech investment has never been more critical to America's future. Jordan Blashek, co-founder of America's Frontier Fund, brings his perspective on innovation for national advantage. From investing in defense tech to the newly launched Endless Frontiers, we discuss Jordan's vision for rebuilding American strength through strategic innovation and how Austin finds itself right in the thick of this transformation. Episode HighlightsAmerica's Frontier Fund MissionDeep Tech Funding ModelsManaging Tech vs Market RisksDefense Tech Trends - M&A, Talent, Dual UseFamily Offices as Strategic InvestorsUS-China Tech CompetitionLaunching Endless FrontiersRebuilding American StrengthAustin as a True Power CenterWhat's Next Austin?"Arts and Culture...It means the storytellers are here. The most creative people are here. And when you combine that with the existing resources and things we have I think this city has no limits."Jordan Blashek: X/Twitter; LinkedIn -----------------------------------------TEDx SouthCongress Registration-------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedInEcosystem Metacognition Substack

From cutting-edge chips to AI networks the disruption happening up and down the tech stack is upending invention and value. Everything is on the table. Tyson Tuttle, former CEO of Silicon Labs and current founder and CEO of Circuit, brings decades of experience building innovative products across multiple tech waves. In this conversation, Tyson shares insights on Austin's ecosystem past and present, the global tech competition, and how AI-powered knowledge networks that could finally deliver on the collaboration we have been promised.  Episode HighlightsAustin's Semiconductor LegacyGeopolitical Chip WarsA Million Transistors Per SpaceTaiwan's Silicon ShieldBalancing Risk and ProductionMoving Up the Technology StackRethinking Workflows with AINetwork Effects Beyond SocialAI-Powered Knowledge NetworksWhat's Next, Austin?"Tech is spreading everywhere. We've got to build great companies here, we have great talent, and we've got to make this a place that is affordable and where our quality of life doesn't diminish, but goes up" -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedInEcosystem Metacognition Substack

The Texas innovation ecosystem is accelerating at breakneck speed as technologies like AI and institutions such as the Texas Stock Exchange reshape what is possible. Samantha Lewis, Partner at Mercury Fund, recently relocated to Austin from Houston to strengthen the firm's presence in the region. Our conversation reveals how the founders and funders in the Texas Triangle are positioning themselves during this tech revolution, and why the connections between Austin, Houston, and Dallas are a superpower that is just getting started.Episode HighlightsMercury Investment ThesisExpansion to AustinAI Competition LandscapeImportance of Founder VisionGood Businesses vs VC Backable Bits Meet AtomsHealthcare Innovation FrontiersAustin Growth OpportunityTexas Stock Exchange Impact High Speed Rail vs AirportsTexas Innovation Triangle and CollaborationHouston Industry ChallengesTech Inspiration MomentsWhat's Next Austin?"We're so excited to just hang out and see everybody, meet entrepreneurs, hopefully build a big fintech community here as time goes on...The more VC firms that are here, the better. The more entrepreneurs that are getting funding here, the better"Samantha Lewis: X/Twitter, LinkedInMercury Fund: Website, X/Twitter, LinkedIn -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedInEcosystem Metacognition Substack

Technology is advancing rapidly, but our social systems and institutions struggle to keep pace. Janine Leger co-founded Edge City, a society incubator accelerating social innovation through popup and experimental communities, and they're bringing their next gathering to Austin March 2-7. We explore how rethinking the intersection of technology and agency can lead to human flourishing, and why Austin is emerging as the perfect laboratory for this experimentation. Episode HighlightsEdge City the Society Incubator Innovation in Temporary Spaces Building Default Healthy Environments Invisible Protocols and Personal Agency Edge City as Social Catalyst Austin's Innovation Ecosystem Edge City AustinKey Personas in a Thriving Ecosystem  Future City Projects and ExperimentsAustin's Next Decade of Growth What's Next Austin?"If you're interested in new society models, new ways of living, new towns, Austin is going to be a hub for that...There's so much happening around community dynamism"Janie LegerEdge City AustinEdge City: Website, X/Twitter -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedInEcosystem Metacognition Substack

A unicorn biopharma that ignores the traditional playbook, breaks development speed records, and chose Austin over the traditional biotech hubs.  Mallory Factor, Founder and CEO of IntraBio, joins us to share how his Oxford-born company created an FDA-approved drug in record time while doing everything differently. In this wide-ranging conversation, we explore how finding unconventional talent, maintaining ruthless focus, and embracing a different mindset has led to transformational success in an industry resistant to change. Episode HighlightsBuilding a Different Kind of Biopharma CompanyBreaking Speed Records in Drug DevelopmentFinding Unconventional TalentChallenging Traditional Pharma ThinkingWhy Austin Over Boston and San FranciscoThe Power of Focus in Drug DevelopmentAustin's Creative Collisions and FutureWhat's Next Austin?"Austin has some political problems that's going to have to clear up to make it a better city. Hopefully in time it will and it'll catapult it into the top five, six cities in America"Mallory Factor, IntraBio, Aqneursa -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedInEcosystem Metacognition Substack

A coffee conversation turned into a deep exploration and personal obsession about how we shape our world and how it shapes us. I had to invite my partner in that conversation, Dr. Gena Gorlin, on to the podcast to bring her perspective as a psychologist, professor, and founder coach to examine the interplay between agency, innovation, ecosystems, and technology.  Episode HighlightsAgency Mindset and Personal Choice Technology Impact on Human Agency Education Evolution in an AI World Gaming as a Window into Human Potential AI Tools for Self Discovery Understanding Innovation Ecosystems Psychology of City Culture Ecosystem Metacognition Principles Building Better Innovation CommunitiesWhat's Next Austin?"Really embracing Austin as this up and coming entrepreneurial cultural hub and participating in that evolution is something that I'm now way more excited about than I even was before"Gena Gorlin: Substack, X/Twitter, Founder Coaching, UT Austin Faculty Page -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedInEcosystem Metacognition Substack

Last June, SXSW announced they would no longer allow military and defense companies as sponsors. This sparked strong reactions from Austin's defense tech community, with one of those reactions leading to the creation of Austin4America. I'm joined by Luke Fischer, one of the summit's creators, to discuss why this matters and how it fits into Austin's broader innovation story. Episode HighlightsSXSW's Military Sponsor Ban and Austin's ResponseModern Defense Tech Beyond WeaponsSkyFi: Building an Earth Intelligence PlatformWhy Austin Leads Defense InnovationAustin4America: From X/Twitter to RealityInnovation & Defense Tech AgendaConvergence of Veterans, Health, and National SecurityWhat's Next Austin? “A gravitation of some of the best companies in the world coming to Austin, where we see across all the industries, bio, defense, healthcare, manufacturing.”Austin4AmericaLuke Fischer: X/Twitter, LinkedIn, SkyFi -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedInEcosystem Metacognition Substack

This past November, the University of Austin hosted their Inaugural SOMA Summit to explore the amazing transformation in space right now, especially how the commercial space era is decentralizing access. I had the privilege to moderate a fascinating panel titled "Science in the Commercial Space Age" featuring Chris Sembroski from Blue Origin, along with University of Florida space biologists Dr. Rob Ferl and Dr. Anna-Lisa Paul.As space becomes more accessible, it's evolving beyond merely a frontier to explore into its own innovation platform and ecosystem. This opens up a whole galaxy of possibilities. Episode HighlightsMission ExperiencesSpace PeppersUnderstanding Human AdaptationSpace as an Innovation Frontier Manufacturing in MicrogravityPlants' Role in Future ExplorationEthical ConsiderationsWhat's next for science in the commercial space age?Rob Ferl: “More scientists flying to do their experiments in space.”Anna-Lisa Paul: “More research in how we effectively take our biology off the planet to have long-term existence elsewhere”Chris Sembroski: “Recognizing that it's not going to end with us, that we have to keep inspiring that next generation”Chris Sembroski: X/Twitter, LinkedInRob Ferl: UF Faculty PageAnna-Lisa Paul: UF Faculty Page -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedInEcosystem Metacognition Substack

AI is becoming the biggest force multiplier for human talent in history. Austen Allred shares how Gauntlet AI is reimagining engineering education for this new reality and why Austin's is the perfect place to build this ambitious program. This is was quick turnaround episode as Gauntlet AI applications close January 4th (application link below). We also go deeper on the 2nd and 3rd order effects of this transformation on engineering, learning, kids, and Austin. Episode HighlightsWhat is Gauntlet AI?How AI transforms the engineering craft Building $100M engineers Breaking traditional talent signals & building new ones AI's impact on adaptive learning Developing spiky points of view Austin's emergence as an edtech hubWhat's Next Austin?"Austin just found a home for all of the people who think a little bit differently and see the world a little bit differently...And historically, if there's a place where all of the independent thinking vagabonds go with a lot of ambition, that's going to be a really cool place, and that's a place you want to be."Gauntlet AIAusten Allred: X/Twitter, LinkedIn -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

Space is becoming our next great innovation frontier as we move from 700 astronauts spending days or months to tens of thousands spending years. What does that do to the human body? What does it mean for our species? Eliah Overbey, Assistant Professor of Bioastronautics at the University of Austin, joins the podcast to explore topics in the increasingly blurred line between science fiction and science fact. Episode HighlightsWhat is Bioastronautics? Space's Impact on Human Biology Current Space Medicine and Healthcare Challenges The Commercialization of Space and NASA's Evolving Role UATX's Unique Approach The SOMA Summit and Space Research Community Genetic Modification for Mars Human Evolution with Space ColonizationWhat's Next Austin?"I'm working on building at UATX is I'm getting a bioastronautics lab started up...More and more people go to space, we're going to have more and more people that we want to sequence to...answer these questions in a more scientifically rigorous way, get our end value higher than before in a single experiment."Eliah Overbey: LinkedIn, X/TwitterUniversity of Austin: Website, LinkedIn, X/TwitterBioAstra: Website, LinkedIn, X/Twitter -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

Austin is rapidly emerging as a significant edtech hub, attracting not just innovative startups but also established industry leaders. In this episode, Udemy's Chief Revenue Officer Rob Rosenthal joins me to explore what skills are in-demand and how technology is transforming both what we learn and how we learn it.Episode HighlightsGenerational Changes in Professional LearningThe Rise of Skills-Based OrganizationsFoundational vs Transitory SkillsAI as a Teaching Tool, Not a ReplacementThe Power of Learning MarketplacesWhy Austin is Becoming an EdTech HubWhat's Next Austin?"It's always been one of my favorite places in the world to spend time. I know you've had a lot of growth, you have a lot more coming."2025 Global Learning & Skills Trends ReportQ3 2024 Global Workplace Learning IndexRob RosenthalUdemy: Website, LinkedIn, X/Twitter -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

Recorded live at Austin's Quantonation Day this past September, I sat down with senior leaders from Strangeworks, Qunnect, Pasqal, and Tau Systems to discuss the state of quantum and physics tech. This candid panel went beyond the typical quantum computing conversation to face the market realities of building a business in the space. We explored the tension between the possible future this technology brings and immediate needs of customers today. Episode HighlightsIntroduction to Quantum and Physics TechDeep Tech CommunicationScientific-Business DivideHype vs Market Reality vs Innovation ProgressSolving Customer Problems TodayThe Role of PatienceInfrastructure and Horizontal Tech What's NextWilliam 'whurley' Hurley: Strangeworks, LinkedIn, X/TwitterNoel Goddard: Qunnect, LinkedInWasiq Bokhari: Pasqal, LinkedInBjorn Manuel Hegelich: Tau Systems, LinkedInQuantoation  -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

Optimizing health is about more than just new tech, it's about new models, new ways to engage, and being fun. Jim Donnelly, founder and CEO of Humanaut Health, is pioneering a comprehensive approach that combines advanced diagnostics, the latest interventions, with lifestyle changes to add decades of healthy living to people's lives. In this episode, we look at these new approaches and how Austin is emerging as a hub for health innovation companies. Episode HighlightsHumanaut Health and Its MissionLongevity vs. Health OptimizationNavigating the Wild West of Wellness Measuring Prevention and HealthspanNew Business Models: Aligning Incentives, Dealing with Churn, Integrating TechAustin: A Hub for Health and Wellness InnovationWhat's Next, Austin?"That many of these great things that are happening in Austin become less the purvey of the top 1%-5%. It's not the biohackers. It's not the rich people. It's like a lot of this sort of filters down more and more."Jim DonnellyHumanaut Health: Website, Instagram -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

Building companies that can 10x humanity requires extraordinary leadership. Craig Cummings of Moonshots Capital has made finding and backing these leaders his mission. Craig shares his insights on building the next generation of mission-driven companies and the future of the Austin ecosystem.Episode HighlightsWhat is a Moonshot?Finding the %$^* Yes: Moonshots Capital's Investment PhilosophyAustin's Open Networks and Culture of Help Building the Nation's Defense Tech HubDancing with the Stars AustinWhat's Next Austin?"How do we get bigger and smaller at the same time...Don't try to change it, help us maintain it."Craig Cummings Moonshots Capital:  Website, LinkedIn, X/TwitterDancing with Starts AustinCenter for Child Protection: Website, Instagram -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

Nothing motivates a parent to action like a sick child, and for the Andrews family, words like no and impossible became mere roadblocks on their journey to help their kids. Our guests, Pam and Chris Andrews, founders of the Firefly Fund, turned their battle with their daughters' rare genetic disorder into a mission to revolutionize rare disease research and treatment here in Austin and beyond.Episode HighlightsFirefly Fund's OriginEstablishing a Rare Disease Center at UT Dell Medical School Navigating the Diagnostic OdysseyInterplay of Tech Innovation and New Business Models in HealthcareDownstream Effects of Rare Disease AdvancementsWhat's Next, Austin?Pam Andrews: "Let's see how the intersection of technology and healthcare really can transform healthcare because I think that rare disease can light the way and inform the way that we do precision medicine for generations to come. So that's what we want through the Center for Rare Disease here in Austin is for it to evolve and unfold in a partnership with the rare disease community."Chris Andrews: "My dream is that when people think of Austin, they'll think of the University of Texas, they'll think of barbecue, but they also will think of a place where people work to save lives."Firefly Fund: Website, Facebook, X/Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

Angel investors are supposed to descend and bring early grace to startups but the reality of angel investing is much more complicated and complex. From individual big-check writers to small investors to organized groups, the will, experience, and dynamics vary widely.  Katie Russel (Central Texas Angel Network), Hall Martin (Ten Capital), and James Burkett (NuFund) join us to explore angel investing evolution and the state of Austin's scene. Episode HighlightsDefining an AngelAngel Investing Intersections with the EcosystemDynamics of Individual Investors, Small Syndicates, and Angel NetworksWhere is Expertise in Verticals, Investing, and StartupsContrarian vs Consensus Decision Making in Angel InvestingSAFE vs Convertible Note Debate Austin's Angel Scene, its Evolution, and ChallengesWhat's Next, Austin?Katie Russel: "Making sure that Texas based startups have access to angel level capital and that investors, if they want to get involved in early stage investing, they know how to get involved and where to go"Hall Martin: "Life science and deep tech...Austin's right there with the Bits and Atoms"James Burkett: "Continue to do what defines Austin as a city. It's been really good at blazing its own trail in a number of unique industries and just because it's not something that someone in Sand Hill Road wants to fund doesn't mean it's the wrong thing to be building. And have conviction in that."Katie Russel: LinkedIn, Central Texas Angel Network (CTAN)Hall Martin: Ten Capital Group, Startup Funding Espresso, Investor Connect James Burkett: LinkedIn, NuFund, Florin Digital -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

Are we overlooking the most powerful model of intelligence we have  in our race to create smarter machines,  the human mind?  Peter Voss, CEO and Chief Scientist of Aigo.ai, coined the term "Artificial General Intelligence" (AGI) and brings decades of experience in AI research and development. We explore Peter's vision and challenge the current consensus path we are on.Episode HighlightsDefining AGI and Its DistinctionsMeasuring Intelligence Beyond the Turing TestCurrent AI Limitations and the Need for Real-Time Learning Building Cognitive AI to Mimic the Human Mind The Future of AI Development in AustinWhat's Next Austin?"I hope Austin becomes the center of cognitive AI and AGI"Peter Voss: LinkedIn, X/Twitter, Aigo.AIConcepts Is All You Need: A Direct Path to AGITowards Incremental LearningWhy We Don't Have AGI Yet?INSA – Integrated Neuro-Symbolic ArchitectureCreating The Future With Artificial General IntelligenceLLMs are not the Path to AGI -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

What connects the Startup Nation to the Lone Star State? We're witnessing a growing nexus that crosses tech, cultures, and economic verticals. To explore this emerging relationship, I'm joined by Tal Shmueli and Simone Ledeen from Texas Venture Partners. They're at the forefront of catalyzing this intersection between two innovative ecosystems.Episode HighlightsIsraeli Entrepreneurs in Texas: Shared Values and CultureTexas Venture Partners' Thesis and ScopeIsrael's Tech Expertise and Its Fit with U.S. Defense Needs Accelerating Innovation from Concept to the BattlefieldBalancing Collaboration and Competition with Defense PrimesIs Dual-Use a Distraction or an Opportunity?Austin and Texas as Emerging Hubs for Defense and Hard Tech  What's Next, Texas?Tal Shmueli: "It's what's next for the people who are considering Texas as a home. It's not perfect, but it's pretty close to it. Let's work to make it the place we want it to be...So let's keep Texas, Texas and preserve the good."Simone Ledeen: "When we look at the threats that Western civilization broadly is facing...I think this is a great place for like-minded people to be and to work on solving these problems and meeting these challenges."Tal Shmueli: Website, LinkedInSimone Ledeen: Website, LinkedInTexas Venture Partners: Website, LinkedIn -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

From wargaming to Riskgaming, what can simulations and stories teach us about the future of technology and innovation? Danny Crichton, Head of Editorial and Risk Gaming at Lux Capital, brings his unique insights from his experience in both tech journalism and venture capital.  What started as a conversation on the tech-media divide expanded to encompass human psychology and all the little details and nuances that make innovation tick.Episode Highlights:The Evolution of Tech Media and VC CommunicationBuilding Long-Lasting Companies With and Against Hype CyclesWhat is Riskgaming?Real World Incentives and Human Emotion in Decision MakingComplexity vs Functionality in Modern TechEcosystem First Principles What's Next?"I have been really obsessed with xenotransplantation...Technology exists to potentially give them organs in relatively short order. And to me, it's sort of a national priority to move that very, very quickly, to make that happen fast. We've had the first successful cases. And so the ability to potentially save hundreds of thousands of lives in the next decade."Hacking Primordial Soups Danny Crichton: Website, Articles, X/Twitter, LinkedInLux Capital: Website, X/Twitter, LinkedInRiskgaming: Website, Podcast -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

Is venture capital on the cusp of a data-driven revolution? Gopinath Sundaramurthy, Founder & Head of Data Science at Ensemble VC, believes AI and advanced analytics are reshaping how VCs identify and support promising startups. From transforming deal pipelines to finding diamonds in the rough around the globe, we explore what this new era will mean for venture, startups, and even our own Austin backyard.Episode Highlights:Ensemble VC's ThesisTransforming the VC Pipeline with AI and Advanced AnalyticsPortfolio Support Using Data Science Adapting VC to Global Talent and Technological Shifts Austin's Unique Ecosystem and Its Role in the Future of StartupsWhat's Next, Austin?“I am super pumped. I really think we are in the forefront of a very interesting evolution of the ecosystem.”Data innovation + process innovation = top-tier VCGopinath SundaramurthEnsemble VC: Website, LinkedIn -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

Can the stories we tell shape the future we build? Devon Eriksen, author of "Theft of Fire" and now Dragon Award finalist, argues that science fiction isn't just entertainment; it's a catalyst for innovation and human progress. Our narratives can be beautiful and optimistic, inspiring us to build, or ugly and pessimistic, causing us to stagnate. It's time to choose.Episode Highlights:Role of Science Fiction in Shaping the FutureSymbiotic Relationship Between Science Fiction, Engineering, and InnovationChanging Landscape of Publishing and DistributionTensions and Connections Between the Media, Artists, and EntrepreneursAsteroid Mining and the Space Industrial Revolution   What's Next?"What's next is a choice. Humanity has a choice between sabotaging this new wave of innovation with the political process or benefiting from it and inheriting the stars."Devon Eriksen: Website, X/Twitter, Facebook, InstagramTheft of Fire, Theft of Fire Audiobook Kickstarter -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

Evan Loomis, partner at Overmatch Ventures and co-founder of ICON, exemplifies Austin's entrepreneurial spirit in tackling audacious challenges. From revolutionizing construction to investing in frontier technologies, Evan shares his journey through Austin's rapidly evolving tech landscape and why now is the moment for critical tech. We don't shy away from some of the contentious issues arising from Austin's transformation. Episode HighlightsIntroduction and Background of ICONDifference Between 3D Printing and Construction RoboticsCultural Dynamics of Innovation in Austin and TexasInvestment Thesis of Overmatch VenturesSurge of Deep Tech and Critical TechTechnoeconomic Competition and World OrderContrarian Investing and Venture CapitalThe Pain Threshold of FoundersCurrent Austin Ecosystem VibeWhat's Next Austin?"I think Austin is going to be the center of America for working on the hardest problems, period."Evan Loomis, Overmatch Ventures, Icon -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

Can a city's food scene serve as a catalyst for connection, creativity, and innovation? Grace Chow, Co-Founder & CEO of Austin-based Lobos Hospitality, joins me to share her insights from food scenes across the US, and her in-the-trenches view from building three distinctive Austin restaurants: Toasty Badger, Manny's, and the Powder Room.Episode HighlightsThe State of the Austin Food SceneBalancing Local Sourcing, Trends, and Concept AuthenticityCrafting Distinctive Dining ExperiencesWhat Austin Needs for a Vibrant Hospitality IndustryHow Restaurants Intersect with Other Sectors The Impact of Tech on the Restaurant Industry Restaurants as Potential Third Places in Austin What's Next, Austin?"I think just everybody kind of becoming a little bit nerdier about food and a little bit nerdy about restaurants."Grace Chow, Lobos Hospitality  -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

Promising startups often fail despite following best practices, while rule-breakers and those running through chaos can achieve massive success. Why? Mike Maples Jr, Founding Partner at Floodgate, tackles this paradox in his book "Pattern Breakers." We discuss his Inflection Theory, why some pivots work and others don't, unexpected inspirations like Lord of the Rings, and explore the nature of breakthrough innovation and startups. Episode HighlightsThe genesis of Mike Maples' new book "Pattern Breakers" originated from his realization that over 80% of his exit profits came from startups that had pivoted significantly from their original ideas, leading him down the rabbit hole of why.Business is never a fair fight, and the key is deciding who gets to fight unfair; startups create value by changing the subject and denying the premise of existing rules.Inflection theory shows how breakthrough startups harness powerful technological or societal inflection points, combine them with founders' non-obvious insights, and then build movements around new ideas that fundamentally change how things are done. Living in the future to develop non-obvious insights is crucial for breakthrough startups, and founder-future fit is key to understanding what makes the right team that can turn that future vision into reality. What's Next?"I like to ask myself is in what world will certain types of cognition become asymptotically free and where, how will that shift power dynamics?... My instinct is it won't be the same way that the big companies of today monetize it. And my instinct is that an era of mass cognition will shift the balance of power in some very profound ways."Mike Maples Jr: X/Twitter, LinkedInPattern Breakers: Book, Podcast, Newsletter Floodgate: Website, X/Twitter, LinkedIn -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

What do global trends affects on startups, the art of selling, startup accelerators, and the future lizard king all have in common? They are all just a few of the diverse and intersecting topics that I explore today with Joe Merrill,  Co-Founder and Partner at Sputnik VC.Episode HighlightsSputnik ATX invests in pre-seed startups across various sectors, attracting companies from around the world, including Vietnam, Japan, and France, while focusing on "training nerds on how to sell." Austin is seen as a welcoming place for international startups due to its competitive marketplace and cultural acceptance, offering a less expensive and more supportive environment compared to Silicon Valley.Successful global sales demonstrate cultural flexibility, while understanding at the end of the day selling is still selling no matter what country you are in.Startups need to embrace adaptability by understanding how macro events affect them, leveraging international markets, and utilizing global talent pools to remain competitive and innovative What's Next Austin"I really feel strongly that the next great wave of technology is going to be coming from this state and Austin specifically leading that because this is where the rebels are. This is where the people are who want to just dramatically change the status quo and other places have become the status quo."Joe Merrill: Blog, LinkedIn, X/TwitterSputnik ATX VC: Website, LinkedIn, X/Twitter -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

Generative AI Summit Austin - Registration --------------------------------------------------------------In honor of the The Board Walks' 100th walk this past weekend, we are rereleasing our episode with Board Walks Founder Elle Beecher.Episode Originally Aired September 12, 2023----------------------Fostering connectivity within an innovation ecosystem is crucial for its ongoing vitality and growth. Often revolutionary concepts emerge from the most unforeseen origins. My guest, Elle Beecher, founded The Board Walks, where community and innovation unite through a simple yet powerful concept—a five-mile walk. In this episode, we explore this social experiment, examine how these walks serve as catalysts for creative collisions, and bring back the intellectual dynamism of Paris in the ‘20s. Episode HighlightsDrawing inspiration from the 1920s Parisian cafe culture, Elle crafted The Board Walks to ignite creative collisions in Austin, offering a fresh, organic approach to networking.Curiosity stands at the heart of Elle's vision; she champions the idea that bringing together inquisitive minds sparks deeper, more meaningful dialogues.Though spontaneous in nature, The Board Walks are intentionally designed with playbooks and guidelines to foster genuine connections and fruitful discussions.Overheard dialogues during the walks resonate with Austin's innovative aura, reminiscent of Paul Graham's "eavesdropping quality" notion from his 2008 Cities essay.The walks serve as a platform for attendees to not only build professional relationships but also to delve into personal narratives and aspirations.Given its success in Austin, Elle envisions taking The Board Walks to other cities, like San Francisco, while ensuring the preservation of its foundational values and communal essence.What's next Austin? “More creative collisions that will bring about Paris in the 20s energy.”“Cities and Ambition” by Paul GrahamElle Beecher: Website, LinkedIn, X/Twitter, InstagramThe Board Walks: Website, X/Twitter, Instagram -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

Generative AI Summit Austin - Registration --------------------------------------------------------------The future of defense and warfare has always been linked to technological change, from the discovery of fire to the Bronze Age to the Nuclear Age to now the AI Age. My guest today is Charlie Burgoyne, Founder and CEO of both Valkyrie and their newest spinout Andromeda, who joins me to discuss the future of warfare going forward. But we don't stop there as we explore every rabbit hole in search of Truth. Andromeda synthesizes large volumes of information quickly and accurately, helping users understand the interconnected context to make informed decisions.Pop culture and media narratives of innovation, from Terminator to Data to Her to Oppenheimer, shape how the public views, embraces, or fears technological waves.History has shown that industry and defense have always been intertwined, with modern tech entrepreneurs playing roles similar to industrialists of the past in advancing defense capabilities.Probabilistic thinking is essential in defense decision-making, especially where high levels of computation can easily mask high levels of uncertainties.What's Next Austin"I think that we're going to see a big push to support the intelligence community the way we've seen a big push to support the defense community. I think that an equivalent to AFC is coming on the intelligence side."Accountability in Age of LLMS at SXSW by Charlie BurgoyneValkyrie: Website, Facebook, InstagramAndromeda: Website -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

The only constant in Austin seems to be change.  Whether that be the people moving here, the buildings defining our skyline, or the startups being founded and funded.  Today, my guest is Krishna Srinivasan, founding Partner of LiveOak Ventures. We will explore what it means to invest in Texas startups yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Episode HighlightsThe need for early-stage venture capital in Texas led to the founding of LiveOak Ventures, which has a multi-segment approach focused on Texas-based entrepreneurs.Krishna identifies three types of founders now in Austin: experienced local entrepreneurs, successful founders from other markets relocating to Austin, and new residents inspired by the city's quality of life to start businesses here.Despite significant progress in startup formation and mid-level scaling, Austin faces gaps in experienced talent for managing large-scale, nine-figure+ companies and in securing substantial late stage venture capital.What's Next Austin?"Tremendous areas of promise and excitement where Austin takes all these newfound riches, when I say riches, newfound talent and with its traditional strengths and vertical markets to go to the next wave of and continuing this amazing wave of new company formation, growth, and scaling."Krishna Srinivasan: LinkedInLiveOak Ventures: Website, X/Twitter, LinkedIn -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

In this episode, recorded at the Austin Data Science Salon, I sit down with Cheryl Sew Hoy, CEO and Founder of Tiny Health. Tiny Health is a pioneer in gut microbiome testing, providing critical health insights for moms and babies during the first 1,000 days. We dive into the current buzz around AI and machine learning, discussing the tailwinds and challenges founders face when raising venture capital. Cheryl shares her journey and insights, highlighting what VCs are looking for in today's dynamic environment.Cheryl Sew Hoy:  X/Twitter, LinkedInTiny Health: Website, X/Twitter, LinkedInData Science Salon: Website, X/Twitter, LinkedIn -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

How does a nonprofit innovate and scale its mission? Joining me today is Alice Pomponio, Managing Director of BrightEdge, the venture arm of the American Cancer Society, to discuss the intersection of venture capital and nonprofit work. Is this approach a unique case, or part of a new wave of strategies catalyzing the defeat of cancer and other societal challenges?Episode HighlightsBrightEdge, the innovation and venture capital arm of the American Cancer Society (ACS), aims to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and practical application, creating a new funding source for the nonprofit.ACS has allocated over $5 billion to 25,000 researchers and 50 Nobel laureates, significantly influencing global cancer research.Capitalizing on the ACS's extensive partnership network and volume of grants, BrightEdge enhances its deal flow and supports innovative cancer care solutions, ranging from therapeutics to care delivery.The newly announced Texas Accelerator by ACS highlights the strategic importance of the region in advancing national cancer research efforts, leveraging local capabilities, and enhancing ACS's impact through innovative cancer care approaches.What's Next?"Bright Edge is investing in innovation for impact. So we are really excited about reporting on our impact performance. We're excited about the accelerators taking flight and we're excited about building community"Alice Pomponio: LinkedIn, X/TwitterBrightEdge: Website, LinkedIn -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

I am diving back into the quantum realm where the stakes are high and the potential for innovation is even higher. Joining me is Scott Faris, a seasoned expert in the field, to unravel the complexities and opportunities of quantum technology. We explore how this revolutionary tech is shaping the future of global industries and national security, and why Austin is at the forefront of this next wave.Episode HighlightsAmidst escalating geopolitical tensions, the US, China, and other nations are racing to define the future, positioning quantum technology as a critical battleground where securing a first-mover advantage may determine long-term global dominance.Quantum technology leverages the principles of quantum mechanics to manipulate atomic and subatomic particles, unlocking new levels of precision.Even while quantum computing is still in development, quantum technology enhances capabilities in sensing, timing, and communications, setting new standards for accuracy and speed.Austin is poised as a key player in quantum technology, bolstered by its history with semiconductor manufacturing, a deep tech industry presence, and an ecosystem that efficiently supports scaling complex technologies.What's Next, Austin?"I think next Austin, everyone says this, everyone wants to be this. It is the epicenter of the technology industry in the United States in my view. It is what Silicon Valley once was and priced its way out of and politicized its way out of it. You need that as an economic engine for this country to be successful...Austin has all the right ingredients to exist at that scale. It's scale of creative, it's scale of industrial, it's scale of capital."Scott Faris: LinkedIn -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

As we enter the Bio Century, AI innovations are becoming pivotal in shaping the future of biology and medicine. In this episode, I am joined by Micha Breakstone, the founder and CEO of Somite.ai, who is at the forefront of integrating AI with stem cell biology. Together, we explore the intersection of AI and health, its history, and its impact on startups and enterprises alike.Episode HighlightsAI innovations are transforming biology and medicine, paving the way for revolutionary advances in disease understanding, diagnostics, and treatments.Somite.ai, aiming to be the OpenAI for stem cells, is developing a platform to map cell trajectories and guide pluripotent stem cells to become targeted cells for therapeutic use.AlphaFold's understanding of protein folding represented a major breakthrough, deepening our scientific understanding and serving as a clear example of AI's potential impact on biology.  The evolving landscape is creating tension between traditional asset-focused strategies and AI-driven platform business models, prompting questions about where the true value of these companies lies.What's Next, Austin?"I would absolutely love to see Austin become a force of nature in moving innovation forward."Micha Breakstone: LinkedIn, X/TwitterSomite.AI: Website, LinkedIn, X/Twitter -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

In the midst of the streaming wars, a battle rages over the future of how we watch and interact with media. Joining me is Blake Sabatinelli, CEO of Atmosphere, to navigate the changes in consumer expectations, the future of the industry, and how Austin is quietly becoming a real player.Episode HighlightsAtmosphere is designed to enhance communal environments with curated content intended to replace muted TV, currently reaching 137 million people monthly across 65,000 businesses.The streaming industry is currently navigating an 'era of churn,' with likely consolidation ahead to enhance profitability and user experience, while Netflix remains well-positioned to thrive in this era through its expansive content library.Roku's move to Austin, the building of new of film studios, and companies like Atmosphere's innovating in the space exemplify the region's growth as a media hub, at the intersection of creativity and technological advancement. What's Next Austin?"I believe fundamentally that within the next 10 years, Austin will become a hub for creative use of AI. The companies that help drive it and the creatives that are around it, I think that will spur another revolution in this city."Blake Sabatinelli: LinkedIn, X/Twitter Atmosphere: Website, Instagram, Facebook, X/Twitter -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

What makes innovation ecosystems thrive and can the learnings of one hub be applied to another? Today I am joined by Isaiah Taylor, a founder building in the Gundo, and John Coogan, who has done his own deep dive on the hub, to discuss all things Gundo. We explore its rise, what makes the region unique, its future, and the first principles that other hubs should be thinking about.Episode HighlightsStretching from Santa Monica to Long Beach and encompassing more than just El Segundo, the Gundo stands out as a broad hub for aerospace, defense, and hard tech, where a "small town Americana" vibe thrives.The Gundo attracts companies and individuals focused on solving complex challenges with atoms, not just bits, embodying a hardcore ethos that underscores a commitment to ambitious tech innovation.With its recent viral fame, the Gundo now faces the challenge of maintaining its innovation ethos amidst the pressures of increased visibility and expectations.Key lessons that can be brought to other regional ecosystems include the importance of not being apologetic about their core strengths and ambitions, coupled with the impactful role of strong personalities.What's Next?John Coogan "Startups were like in chaos...And in the midst of all that, there's like this small group of like five or so guys that are just like, we're going to go a very different direction. We're going to go off and do this thing. And, and it was like, so counter cultural that it, everyone just fell in love with it. Everyone just loves it online."Isaiah Taylor "I think what's next for the Gundo is we each have a company here has a lot of unbelievably ambitious things to pull off and we have to work extremely hard on it...here's a lot of people thinking about us the Gundo is the spot. And I think probably what's next for the the people who are here is making sure that people don't get overheated with it."Gundo Deep Dive by John CooganIsaiah Taylor: LinkedIn, X/Twitter, Valar Atomics, Why HydrocarbonsJohn Coogan: LinkedIn, X/Twitter, Website, YouTube -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

E-commerce is reshaping how we do business, but where do we stand four years after lockdowns pushed everything online? I'm joined by Roei Yellin, Co-Founder and Chief Revenue Officer of 8fig, to dissect the current state of the industry. We'll explore whether we've returned to previous trends, settled into a new normal, the impact of Chinese competitors, and of course everyone's favorite buzzword, AI.Episode Highlights8fig is a growth platform that combines financial planning and direct financing, uniquely supporting e-commerce sellers in areas where traditional bank lending falls short.Despite a transient spike during the pandemic, the e-commerce industry has resumed its steady, long-term growth, reflecting an increasingly digital consumer base.The maturing e-commerce market is raising barriers to entry and increasing competition, necessitating strategic and efficient business operations.The emergence of Chinese e-commerce platforms is introducing new competitive dynamics, with consumers becoming increasingly comfortable ordering products from these platforms.What's Next Austin?"So the reason we came and we built the office in Austin was because it's a very strong hub for e-commerce sellers...Austin is also becoming a hub for the creative space. So online creators, podcasters, YouTube creators, Instagram influencers are all coming to Austin together. I think there will be a very interesting mix between the two"Roei Yellin: LinkedIn8fig: Website, X/Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

How we live, work, and innovate is changing, transforming not only our interactions within cities but also how regions interact with each other. In this episode, we welcome back Richard Florida to explore his concept of the Meta City. We discuss and dissect how the physical and digital relationships between regions are rooted in historical connections and the emerging ecosystem models of today.Episode HighlightsThe Meta City represents an evolution of the spatial division of labor, expanding beyond urban/suburban distinctions to digitally connect distant cities with unique economic specializations into a global network.Informed by LinkedIn data on skilled professionals' mobility, the Meta City concept was born out of an attempt to understand remote work's impact and instead uncovered new linkages that redefine the connections between cities.The relationship between Austin-Silicon Valley, Miami-New York, and Nashville-Los Angeles exemplifies these interconnected ecosystems, where talent and innovation flow is not only a result of their historical and cultural ties but also significantly enhanced in the digital connectivity era of the Meta City.What's Next Austin?"Linking innovation, university research, high-tech ecosystems, startup ecosystems with popular culture innovation, and music, and all lifestyle, and not only music but outdoor recreation, all the things I like with now a production component. So it's kind of a more full-fledged model. So I like that. You know, I think what next for Austin, just keep doing what you're doing."The Rise of the Meta CityRichard Florida: Website, LinkedIn, X/Twitter -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

As we navigate the tumultuous currents of the startup world, we're thrilled to welcome back Peter Walker, Carta's Head of Insights. He comes with a treasure trove of data shedding light on the twists and turns of 2023 and what may lie ahead in 2024. We see the impact on the national level, from pre-seed to late stage, and how it is affecting founders and funders from Austin to Silicon Valley.Episode HighlightsDespite talks about 2023 being the worst year in a decade for startup fundraising, the reality was more about the severe whiplash being felt from the highs of 2021/2022, as significant capital was still being deployed.With the high number of bridge rounds and the leveling off of capital raised, questions remained about whether the market has hit bottom or if there are still less viable startups to churn through.Amidst the flight to quality, startups are increasingly striving for runway and self-sufficiency, whether with new AI tools, creative hiring, or greater efficiency.Austin was ranked as the number five market for total capital raised and performed well across a variety of industries, demonstrating a broad-based ecosystem that sets it apart from other growing ecosystems.What's Next Austin?"Is the difference between Austin and, LA, New York, Boston, San Francisco, merely a question of scale? What percentage of people who have a lot of disposable income take some of that and put it into startups? Maybe that's the scale. That's like the next part up. And candidly, I think Austin could probably surpass places like LA in that without too much difficulty over the next three or five years."Startups & Statistics: Analyzing 2023's Story & Anticipating 2024 SlidesPeter Walker: LinkedIn, Twitter, The Data Minute NewsletterCarta: Website, LinkedIn, Twitter -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

How does innovation show up at SXSW? Is it all carefully crafted, or the result of spontaneous interactions among artists, musicians, technologists, and more? That is the key question that we dive into with Monica Sack and Chris Valentine, key organizers of the festival. We break down specific programs like Pitch and the Innovation Awards, explore how the conference fosters serendipity, and discuss how the spirit of Austin is always present.   Episode HighlightsSXSW facilitates creative collisions by bringing together diverse industries and encouraging attendees to explore content outside their daily work.SXSW's Pitch Competitions and Innovation Awards highlight innovators from startups to established firms, showcasing groundbreaking ideas and helping create over $20B in company value.Austin's influence is reflected in the content, with health topics booming post-Dell Med School launch and transportation themes possibly paving the way for Tesla's arrival.What's Next Austin?Monica: A renaissance of the food space...Austin's going to be the place where it gets to redefine the food experience.Chris: Austin is a city that is continually changing and evolving, but in an exciting way. I feel like that we're one of the most, probably one of the best cities in the world to live, to work, to play in and I feel like we're kind of ahead of the curve. Monica Sack: LinkedInChris Valentine: LinkedIn, X/TwitterSXSW: Website, LinkedIn, X/Twitter -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

Is an entrepreneur a high-status position or are true innovators actually counter-cultural icons? This intriguing question forms the heart of my conversation with Tyler Norwood, Managing Partner at Antler. We discuss the role and impact of accelerators, the shift towards physical verticals and its implications for regional ecosystems, and the defining moments that shape generations of builders.Episode HighlightsAntler's accelerator model is an eight-week, intensive evaluation program for founders, focusing on practical assessments over traditional business planning, culminating in a potential investment.True disruptive innovation is inherently countercultural as it challenges established norms and appeals to those intrinsically motivated rather than by external status.The Texas corridor's continued rise as global economic powerhouse is driven by the innovation surge in physical domains like energy, semiconductors, and space exploration.The stagnation in productivity over the last 50 years may be attributed to the absence of 'frontier moments' that ignite public imagination, emphasizing the crucial role of inspiration in driving progress.Ambitious projects like space exploration not only achieve technological feats but also inspire future generations, while conversely, those who don't witness such achievements may doubt the possibility of innovation.What's Next Austin?In the next five to 10 years, Austin is going to have a surprising amount of really large, very successful, very innovative companies sprout up here.Tyler Norwood: LinkedIn, X/Twitter, Podcasts - Early Days, The DealAntler: Website, LinkedIn, X/Twitter (Global), X/Twitter (US),  -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

The next phase of AI's evolution focuses on its convergence with the real world and the built environment, a key theme in my discussion with Amir Husain, Founder and CEO of SparkCognition. We explore the intersection of digital bits and physical atoms, examining the implications and challenges of creating solutions in this space, the progression of AI hardware, and Austin's potential as a hub for autonomy.Episode HighlightsSparkCognition aims to develop an AI-powered operating system for the global $100 trillion existing infrastructure and the upcoming $100 trillion.The unpredictability and rarity of real-world events, such as machinery failures, introduce unique complexities in applying AI to physical systems, necessitating innovative approaches to data and modeling.Crucial for effective interaction with the physical world, multimodal AI integrates varied data types, such as temperature, vibration, and vision, thereby enhancing real-world applications.Edge AI is essential for real-time, autonomous decision-making, embedded locally within hardware, especially in high-stakes scenarios like defense and aviation, where cloud access is often unreliable or unavailable.What's Next?“I would like Austin to be the birthplace…within which this new type of technology is formed, where systems that can take care of themselves, that are entirely self-contained, that can run on their own, optimize themselves, resolve issues within themselves to the maximum degree possible, can become the new infrastructure of this planet. And if that is a gift that Austin can give to the world, it would be one of the greatest gifts ever.”Amir Husain: Website, X/Twitter, LinkedIn, Generative AI for Leaders SparkCognition: Website, X/Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

We shift focus from the broad, macro-level implications of AI to its tangible effects on the ground, as Austin increasingly becomes a hub for educational innovation. Joining me are Principal Keith Moore of Austin's Campbell Elementary and Jules Beesley from Creative Action. We discuss their efforts in bringing AI and other cutting-edge technologies to their scholars, emphasizing the importance of providing access to these tools and technologies for students today and their impact on our future.Episode HighlightsThe goal of integrating AI in early education is to create access and provide opportunities for learning and exploring new technologies.They strive to integrate the latest tools, keeping pace with their rapid evolution while ensuring effective learning experiences for students​​.Demonstrating endless imagination, 4th graders created audio-visual poems combining their written and spoken words with striking images, while 5th graders produced science shows, integrating curriculum topics with personal creativity​​.Austin's education market is increasingly becoming a hub for experimentation, characterized by the emergence of creative groups, unique partnerships, and new schools/universities, all offering diverse paradigms in education and technology.What's Next?Principal Moore: Greater opportunities for scholars, through increasing the use of technology, in these wonderful ways, to connect core curriculum to the arts.Mr. Beesley: How can we use these tools to tell stories, to use our imaginations, as well as explore issues of how we create.Campbell Elementary School: Website, InstagramCreative Action -------------------Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

In this thought-provoking episode, we are joined by Byron Reese, author of 'We are Agora,' and Brett Hurt, serial entrepreneur, to explore the intersections of superorganisms, technology, and human potential. The ideas presented in Byron's book, serve as a springboard to discuss how evolving technologies shape our future and the unfolding narrative of humanity.Episode HighlightsByron new book "We are Agora" explores superorganisms, drawing parallels between natural examples like beehives and emergent entities from human activity.The concept of Agora is debated in relation to Adam Smith's invisible hand, free will, and human evolution, highlighting both the areas of convergence and divergence.Human knowledge progression is traced from DNA to language to writing to the printing press to the internet, and now AI, each phase enhancing our ability to build upon previous knowledge.The role of individual kindness and positive human actions is emphasized as crucial in sustaining and advancing the societal superorganism.What's Next?Byron: “We will spread to a billion planets, and we'll populate each of them with a billion people. and each of those billion people will be empowered to live their best possible life… Every Da Vinci will paint their Mona Lisa. Every Marie Curie would make her discoveries. Everybody would be empowered to achieve the most that they could they could”Brett: “Along the way of shooting high like, whether it's colonizing other planets, where it's inventing AGI, whether it's merging with the machines, whatever it is, we will invent so many things that are so bewilderingly great and make humanity better than ever before. That's our natural destiny”The 4 Billion-Year History of AI's Large Language Models by Byron Reese & Brett HurtWe are Agora by Byron ReeseByron Reese: Website, LinkedIn, X/Twitter Brett Hurt: Website, LinkedIn, X/Twitter, data.world Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

The impetus for this episode was a recent viral tweet stating that "Austin desperately needs another real pre-seed fund." This sparked fierce debate around the health and scalability of Austin's earliest-stage investing landscape. Looking to settle the controversy, I interviewed two Austin-based VCs laser-focused on pre-seed and seed - Avalanche VC's Katelyn Donnelly and Clutch VC's Rajiv Bala. We discuss how we define the stages, the evolution of the Austin market, and what trends they saw this year and heading into next.Episode HighlightsAvalanche VC invests in the first institutional round of companies transforming how people learn, earn, and own. Their focus areas include edtech, future of work, SaaS for small businesses, and companies related to home ownership or data ownership.Clutch VC is a pre-seed and seed stage fund focused on Texas B2B software businesses. They aim to be the first institutional money in, participating in angel rounds up to $2 million pre-seed rounds.The pre-seed round definition is usually less than $2 million raised, no revenue or early revenue/pilots. Seed rounds are around $3-5 million raised with $500k-$1.5 million ARR.There is a lack of dedicated, local pre-seed funds in Austin compared to ecosystems like Seattle. More diverse early-stage managers are needed in Austin to cover the variety of companies starting up.Katelyn observes a variety of small firms and solo GPs in Austin with vertical focuses, contrasting this with more generalist early-stage funds in other regions.Rajiv provides a historical perspective on venture capital in Texas, highlighting the evolution from telecom and semiconductor to software and the shift of VC focus to Austin post-dot-com crash.What's next Austin?Rajiv: “I am just so excited about the opportunity set of the companies that are going to be built here in the next decade. I think the next $10 billion, $100 billion company is going to come out of Austin.”Katelyn: “I've been using the word ‘Austin's Scenius which is a combination of ‘genius' plus ‘scene.' I just feel this momentum of this collective genius in Austin, which is mixing and percolating and coming together for maker weekends and building things and trying things out.  I think there's going to be amazing companies that are coming out of Austin, and they will be started next year and the year after that.”Katelyn Donnelly: Linktree, LinkedIn, X/TwitterAvalanche VC: Website, LinkedIn, X/TwitterRajiv Bala: LinkedIn, X/TwitterClutch VC: Website, LinkedIn, X/Twitter Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

As Austin continues to attract leading tech players and establish itself as a magnet for innovation, the role of new entrants becomes increasingly pivotal in shaping its future. In this episode, I talk with Kevin Parakkattu, Partner at Plug and Play, to explore their distinct approach to the entrepreneurial ecosystem. We cover a range of topics including the effects of their strategies on local markets, why Austin's manufacturing, bio/health, and aerospace/defense sectors are key focus areas, and the broader implications for tech development and regional innovation.Episode HighlightsPlug and Play's unique model combines physical space, corporate innovation, and venture capital to foster startup growth and ecosystem development.Evolving from real estate to venture capital with early stakes in Google and PayPal, Plug and Play has now accelerated over 2,500 startups worldwide, including more than 35 unicorns.Shortly after initiating their program in Alberta, their presence has already prompted notable local shifts, with three cohort companies relocating and four establishing second headquarters.Austin's corporate growth, increasing number of unicorns, and tech promise were decisive in its selection as a new Plug and Play hub, with an emphasis on the region's emerging strengths in advanced manufacturing, bio/health, and aerospace/defense sectors.Locating Plug and Play in Cedar Park, outside the central core of Austin, mirrors the region's evolution into a multi-hub area. This choice aligns with the needs of specific industries, as exemplified by the practicality of "You can't build a rocket downtown."As Austin's innovation landscape rapidly evolves, there's a growing focus on merging new ideas from recent transplants with local expertise, balancing the infusion of fresh attitudes while preserving the region's unique character.What's next Austin? “Plug and Play in Cedar Park, where we will become the innovation hub of the region.” Kevin Parakkattu: LinkedIn, X/TwitterPlug and Play: Website, LinkedIn, X/Twitter, Facebook Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

An update since our original episode aired on May 9, 2023: The University of Austin is now accepting applications for their first undergraduate class starting fall 2024.  To mark this milestone, we are resharing our interview with founding president Panos Kanelos. The University of Austin is a new and promising institution set to open its doors to full time students in just over a year. The university is the brainchild of a few individuals who believe that an institution based on a new model is necessary. The school is committed to freedom of inquiry, a core tenet of any great university, that allows for the pursuit of truth. Today's guest is the founding president, Pano Kanelos, a distinguished academic that had a successful tenure at St. John's College. We discuss the university's mission, building new institutions, and how they fit within Austin's education and innovation ecosystems.Episode HighlightsThe University of Austin aims to become a new center for innovation and academic freedom in the city.UATX aspires to become the "Stanford to Berkeley" for Austin, complementing the University of Texas.By working closely with industry leaders, the university seeks to co-develop programs, offer internships, and provide support for student-led projects.The Polaris Project emphasizes real-world application and impact on pressing global problems, while fostering interdisciplinary collaboration among students.They want to inspire new institutions around the world by proving that it's possible to build a new university todayWhat's next Austin? “A dozen years from now, there is a thriving campus in the Austin area that is attracting scholars, practitioners, and young people from across the country and across the world who are building things that we haven't yet dreamed of.”University of Austin: Website, Undergraduate Application, X/Twitter, LinkedIn Austin Next Links: Website, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn