Podcast appearances and mentions of Ben Horowitz

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Ben Horowitz

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Best podcasts about Ben Horowitz

Latest podcast episodes about Ben Horowitz

a16z
Ben & Marc: Why Everything Is About to Get 10x Bigger

a16z

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 15, 2026 58:11


a16z cofounders Marc Andreessen and Ben Horowitz join a16z general partner Erik Torenberg and Not Boring founder Packy McCormick for a conversation on how the media and information ecosystem has changed over the past decade. The discussion breaks down the shift toward a more open and decentralized speech environment, the rise of writer- and creator-led platforms like Substack, and the erosion of centralized media gatekeepers. Marc and Ben also tie these dynamics to their investing worldview, outlining how supply-driven markets, major technological step changes, and reputation-driven venture platforms shape outcomes in the AI era.Timecodes: 00:00  Introduction00:46  How the media ecosystem is changing4:20  Why a16z invested in Substack6:28  Supply-driven markets and new content creation8:07  Why writers felt trapped by media companies10:09  Databricks and the 10x cloud multiplier13:58  Long-form podcasting proves demand15:40  What the new fund signals about the future16:24  AI as a universal problem solver18:49  Why market sizing is broken20:45  Go-to-market, policy, and platform power22:37  Turning inventors into confident CEOs25:58  Borrowing power to scale faster27:29  Building dreamers, not killing dreams30:46  Reputation as a core competitive advantage35:57  Taking arrows in public38:56  Avoiding big company failure modes40:39  Autonomous teams inside a16z41:54  Venture capital as the last job46:01  Why intangibles matter more than ever48:17  Original thinkers with charisma50:06  Why Zoomers are differentResources: https://www.notboring.co/p/a16z-the-power-brokershttps://www.a16z.news/p/firm-fundFollow Marc Andreessen on X: https://twitter.com/pmarcaFollow Ben Horowitz on X: https://twitter.com/bhorowitzFollow Erik Torenberg on X: https://twitter.com/eriktorenbergFollow Packy McCormick on X: https://twitter.com/packyM Stay Updated:If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, subscribe, and share with your friends!Find a16z on X: https://twitter.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://twitter.com/eriktorenberg](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 Show on SpotifyListen to the a16z Show 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.

Repeatable Revenue
[2025 Audit] Management Debt Will Kill Your Business

Repeatable Revenue

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2026 8:16 Transcription Available


Ben Horowitz: Quit being a coward and do the hard thinghttps://youtu.be/XSUIFA3j2VoThe Hard Thing About Hard Thingshttps://amzn.to/456nM50If everyone on your team agrees with your decisions, you are irrelevant as a leader. In this episode, I'm auditing my biggest lessons from 2025 and diving into a hard truth: real leadership isn't about consensus; it's about having the courage to make unpopular calls.I discuss Ben Horowitz's concept of "Management Debt"—the compounding interest we pay when we avoid hard conversations, difficult firings, or killing passion projects—and why sprinting toward these uncomfortable moments is the only way to avoid organizational stagnation. Tune in to find out why your actual job description is doing the things no one else wants to do.//Welcome to Repeatable Revenue, hosted by strategic growth advisor , Ray J. Green.About Ray:→ Former Managing Director of National Small & Midsize Business at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, where he doubled revenue per sale in fundraising, led the first increase in SMB membership, co-built a national Mid-Market sales channel, and more.→ Former CEO operator for several investor groups where he led turnarounds of recently acquired small businesses.→ Current founder of MSP Sales Partners, where we currently help IT companies scale sales: www.MSPSalesPartners.com→ Current Sales & Sales Management Expert in Residence at the world's largest IT business mastermind.→ Current Managing Partner of Repeatable Revenue Ventures, where we scale B2B companies we have equity in: www.RayJGreen.com//Follow Ray on:YouTube | LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

a16z
Ben Horowitz on Investing in AI: AI Bubbles, Economic Impact, and VC Acceleration

a16z

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 13, 2026 34:16


AI is changing how companies are built and how venture firms operate, forcing faster decisions, clearer judgment, and new ways of working.In this exclusive conversation, Ben Horowitz shares how Andreessen Horowitz adapts to that shift. He explains why managing GPs is different from running a company, how investors are evaluated at the moment of decision rather than years later, and why verticalized teams help the firm scale without internal politics.Ben also breaks down the current AI cycle, from treating AI as a new computing platform to why application design and model orchestration matter more than raw model size. He discusses the return of M&A and why today's AI market reflects real demand, not just inflated valuations. Resources:Follow Ben on X: https://twitter.com/bhorowitzFollow Jen on X: https://twitter.com/jkhamehl  Read Justine's piece ‘There is No God Tier Video Model': https://a16z.com/there-is-no-god-tier-video-model-but-there-is-something-better/ Stay Updated:If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, subscribe, and share with your friends!Find a16z on X :https://twitter.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/id842818711Please 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 Show on SpotifyListen to the a16z Show 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.

a16z
Ben Horowitz on TBPN: Three Decades with Marc and Building for the Long Game

a16z

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 11, 2026 24:03


Following the announcement of a16z's new fund, Andreessen Horowitz cofounder and general partner Ben Horowitz joined TBPN to discuss how Andreessen Horowitz has evolved its firm structure as technology becomes embedded across every sector of the economy. Ben reflects on which lessons from The Hard Thing About Hard Things still apply to founders, why entrepreneurship remains difficult at any scale, and how long-term partnerships shape decision-making inside the firm. He explains the move toward specialized, independent investment teams, how a16z evaluates new markets, and why AI represents a generational technology shift that changes how companies are built and how investors operate. The conversation also lessons from prior technology cycles and bubbles, the role of public policy in sustaining innovation ecosystems, and how founders can navigate modern media attention and public discourse while building durable, long-term companies. Resources:Follow Ben Horowitz on X: https://twitter.com/bhorowitzFollow John Coogan on X: https://twitter.com/johncoogan Follow Jordi Hays on X: https://twitter.com/jordihays Stay Updated:If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, subscribe, and share with your friends!Find a16z on X: https://x.com/a16z](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/eriktorenberg](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 http://a16z.com/disclosures.  Stay Updated:Find a16z on XFind a16z on LinkedInListen to the a16z Show on SpotifyListen to the a16z Show 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.

a16z
Ben Horowitz on Raising a New Fund and How Venture Firms Scale

a16z

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 9, 2026 59:10


In this feed drop from Uncapped, Jack Altman sits down with a16z co-founder Ben Horowitz to unpack the founding bet behind Andreessen Horowitz. VC should be a better product for entrepreneurs, built on real operating experience, real networks, and real support.Ben shares how he and Marc Andreessen have worked together for 30 years, how they make decisions, and what it takes to scale a venture firm without losing the edge that actually helps founders. They also dig into why boards matter, how platform teams can change what partners do day-to-day, and the difference between “heat-seeking” investing and conviction-driven company building, especially in sectors like AI and crypto.Timecodes:00:00 Introduction 01:05 Ben Horowitz & Marc Andreessen's Partnership  04:05 Building & Leading a16z  07:16 Managing High-Powered VCs  11:01 Boards, Governance & Founder Support  15:36 Platform Services & Recruiting  17:43 Scale vs. Concentration in Venture  20:57 Why Venture Can Scale  24:27 Platform Services: What Works and What Doesn't  27:50 The Real Value of Board Membership  35:38 Media, Brand & Marketing Evolution  41:32 The Future of Media & Journalism  45:30 Limits on Venture Firm Size  49:13 Winning vs. Picking Deals  53:16 The Case Against Venture Scale  55:49 Hiring Operators & Rethinking the VC ProductResources:Follow Ben on X: https://twitter.com/bhorowitzFollow Jack on X: https://twitter.com/jaltmaWatch more from Uncapped: https://www.altcap.com/ Stay Updated:If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, subscribe, and share with your friends!Find a16z on X: https://twitter.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/id842818711Please 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 Show on SpotifyListen to the a16z Show 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.

a16z
Wartime vs Peacetime: Ben Horowitz on Leadership

a16z

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 2, 2026 35:02


In this exclusive conversation from a16z's Bio and Health BUILD Summit, founding partner Ben Horowitz sits down with general partner Jorge Conde. Originally released in August 2023, the episode covers everything from the inspiration behind Ben's book The Hard Thing About Hard Things and how the open internet was secured, to the difference between wartime and peacetime CEOs, what it really means to scale culture, and how bio and healthcare innovation differs from other forms of technology.Ben's Book: https://www.amazon.com/Hard-Thing-About-Things-Building/dp/0062273205 Resources:Follow Ben on Twitter: https://x.com/bhorowitzFollow Jorge on Twitter: https://x.com/jorgecondebio Stay Updated:If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, subscribe, and share with your friends!Find a16z on X: https://twitter.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/id842818711Please 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 Show on SpotifyListen to the a16z Show 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.

a16z
The Techno-Optimist Manifesto with Marc Andreessen and Ben Horowitz

a16z

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 2026 66:38


Originally aired in October 2023, this episode centers on Marc Andreessen's essay The Techno-Optimist Manifesto, which lays out his vision for the future of technology. The piece sparked widespread discussion across traditional and social media by challenging the prevailing pessimistic narrative around technology and arguing instead that it can be a force for growth, progress, and abundance.In this one-on-one conversation, based on listener questions from X (formerly Twitter), a16z cofounder Ben Horowitz and Marc discuss how technological advances can improve quality of life, support marginalized communities, and shape how we think about humanity's long-term future.Read the full manifesto: https://a16z.com/the-techno-optimist-manifesto/ Resources:Follow Marc Andreessen on X: https://x.com/pmarcaFollow Ben Horowitz on X: https://x.com/bhorowitz Stay Updated:If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, subscribe, and share with your friends!Find a16z on X: https://twitter.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/id842818711Please 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 Show on SpotifyListen to the a16z Show 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.

Beyond the Skyline
Interview: Libby Starling and Ben Horowitz, Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis

Beyond the Skyline

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2025 21:07


Minneapolis Fed researchers Libby Starling, a senior community development adviser, and Ben Horowitz, a senior policy analyst, talk to F&C reporter Dan Netter. Starling and Horowitz discuss the work from the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis' community development team on housing and commercial real estate.

a16z
The Crime Crisis In America and How Technology Fixes It

a16z

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 17, 2025 59:30


What if America tried to eliminate crime instead of just reacting to it? Not with slogans, but with staffing, technology, and strategy scaled to the problem. In this episode, Erik Torenberg speaks with Garrett Langley, founder and CEO of Flock Safety, and Ben Horowitz, cofounder of a16z, about what is happening in the cities that are trying. Flock now works with over 5,000 communities to detect crime, recover missing children, and close cases faster than ever. Ben has been closely involved in Las Vegas, where Flock technology, drones, and community policing have raised clearance rates while reducing use of force. They outline what a real national crime-reduction strategy could look like: solving the police staffing crisis, using intelligence to make policing safer, understanding why clearance rates have collapsed, and how public–private partnerships are filling gaps cities cannot. They also tackle the hard questions around privacy, criminal justice failures, and the hidden role of organized crime in everyday offenses. Timecodes: 0:00 — Introduction and the Cost of Crime1:09 — Technology, Privacy, and Trust in Policing1:22 — Eliminating Crime: A National Strategy2:54 — People: Staffing, Culture, and Recruitment8:45 — Products: Technology in Modern Policing9:41 — Policy: Accountability and Prosecution20:11 — Community Policing and Clearance Rates25:16 — Case Study: Las Vegas and Public-Private Partnerships32:00 — Criticisms, Privacy, and Trust35:23 — Economic Mobility, Safety, and Social Impact36:44 — Reform, Recidivism, and Alternative Approaches52:14 — Organized Crime and Policy Challenges54:32 — The Future of Policing: Intelligence and Precision57:24 — Success Stories and ConclusionResources: Follow Garrett on X: https://twitter.com/glangley Follow Ben on X: https://twitter.com/bhorowitz Stay Updated: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, subscribe, and share with your friends! Find a16z on X: https://twitter.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 Listen to the a16z Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a16z-podcast/id842818711 Follow our host: https://x.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. Stay Updated:Find a16z on XFind a16z on LinkedInListen to the a16z Show on SpotifyListen to the a16z Show 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.

Mission to the Moon
วิธีคิดที่ทำให้รอด ในวันที่องค์กรสั่นคลอน #สรุปหนังสือ | MM EP.2558

Mission to the Moon

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 6, 2025 35:05


การเป็นผู้นำในวันที่องค์กรสั่นคลอน มันยากจนแทบจะหมดแรง? . นี่เป็นความในใจของ CEO ทั่วโลกที่ทำให้ Ben Horowitz นักลงทุนระดับตำนาน เขียนหนังสือ The Hard Thing About Hard Things จากประสบการณ์จริงในการบริหารบริษัทผ่านวิกฤต เขาเรียกช่วงเวลาที่ยากลำบากนี้ว่า "The Struggle" ช่วงเวลาที่ CEO ต้องตัดสินใจเรื่องยากๆ ทั้ง Layoff พนักงาน ไล่ผู้บริหาร และรับมือกับข่าวร้ายที่ถาโถมเข้ามา . ในสรุปหนังสือ EP. นี้ เราจะพาทุกท่านไปสำรวจวิธีคิดที่ทำให้รอดในวันที่ทุกอย่างดูเหมือนจะพังทลายลง พร้อมเรียนรู้ว่า CEO ที่ดีควรซื่อสัตย์กับปัญหาอย่างไร และอะไรคือกุญแจสำคัญของการเป็นผู้นำในยามที่ต้องเลือกระหว่าง Wartime กับ Peacetime . . #สรุปหนังสือ #TheHardThingAboutHardThings #Leadership #missiontothemoon #missiontothemoonpodcast

M觀點 | 科技X商業X投資
EP257. OpenAI 紅色警戒、亞馬遜的 AI 策略、Ben Horowitz 談領導力 | M觀點

M觀點 | 科技X商業X投資

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 4, 2025 87:52


《成為頂尖產品人》學習矽谷產品DfX工作流,打造低風險、高勝率產品,成為外商搶著要的人才!

a16z
How To Lead | Ben Horowitz on My First Million

a16z

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 2, 2025 70:40


A16Z co-founder Ben Horowitz joins Shaan Puri and Sam Parr on My First Million to talk about how to be a great leader. Resources:Follow Ben on X: https://x.com/bhorowitzFollow Shaan on X: https://x.com/ShaanVPFollow Sam on X: https://x.com/thesamparr 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 http://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.

My First Million
Weird ways Ben Horowitz makes Founders more confident

My First Million

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 1, 2025 72:32


Steal Sam's playbook to turn ChatGPT into your Executive Coach: https://clickhubspot.com/ohv Episode 770: Sam Parr ( ⁠https://x.com/theSamParr⁠ ) and Shaan Puri ( ⁠https://x.com/ShaanVP⁠ ) talk to Ben Horowitz ( https://x.com/bhorowitz ) about the Tupac murder, how to be a great leader, and the best opportunities for young people.  — Show Notes: (0:00) Intro (5:36) Why most leadership books don't work (9:25) What to do when your CTO is an asshole (17:54) What makes Zuck a great CEO (27:09) #1 reason why founders fail as CEOs (33:10) Startups solving America's problems (39:19) Opportunities for young people (44:25) Culture rules with shock value (55:25) Jeff Bezos' new startup (57:00) Ben's uncommon traits (1:00:13) Wisdom accelerators (1:03:24) Paid in Full — Links: • High Output Management - https://tinyurl.com/yejpnfs8  • The Motive - https://tinyurl.com/2ba2p52m  • a16z - https://a16z.com/  • KoBold Metals - https://koboldmetals.com/  • Flock Safety - https://www.flocksafety.com/  • Paid In Full - https://paidinfullfoundation.org/  — Check Out Shaan's Stuff: • Shaan's weekly email - https://www.shaanpuri.com  • Visit https://www.somewhere.com/mfm to hire worldwide talent like Shaan and get $500 off for being an MFM listener. Hire developers, assistants, marketing pros, sales teams and more for 80% less than US equivalents. • Mercury - Need a bank for your company? Go check out Mercury (mercury.com). Shaan uses it for all of his companies! Mercury is a financial technology company, not an FDIC-insured bank. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group, Column, N.A., and Evolve Bank & Trust, Members FDIC — Check Out Sam's Stuff: • Hampton - https://www.joinhampton.com/ • Ideation Bootcamp - https://www.ideationbootcamp.co/ • Copy That - https://copythat.com • Hampton Wealth Survey - https://joinhampton.com/wealth • Sam's List - http://samslist.co/ My First Million is a HubSpot Original Podcast // Brought to you by HubSpot Media // Production by Arie Desormeaux // Editing by Ezra Bakker Trupiano //

a16z
Ben Horowitz: Why Open Source AI Will Determine America's Future

a16z

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 27, 2025 46:50


Ben Horowitz reveals why the US already lost the AI culture war to China—and it wasn't the technology that failed. While Biden's team played Manhattan Project with closed models, Chinese developers quietly captured the open-source heartbeat of global AI through DeepSeek, now running inside every major US company and university lab. The kicker: Google and OpenAI employ so many Chinese nationals that keeping secrets was always a delusion, but the policy locked American innovation behind walls while handing cultural dominance to Beijing's weights—the encoded values that will shape how billions of devices interpret everything from Tiananmen Square to free speech. Resources:Follow Ben Horowitz on X: https://x.com/bhorowitzFollow Costis Maglaras on X: https://x.com/Columbia_Biz 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 http://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.

a16z
The Secret Marketing Strategy That Built a16z: From Zero to Legendary VC Firm

a16z

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 26, 2025 59:55


Marc Andreessen and Ben Horowitz sit down with Margit Wennmachers—the woman who turned two unknown entrepreneurs with $300 million and zero investing track record into the most talked-about firm in venture capital. She unpacks how they weaponized transparency in an industry built on secrecy, why Fortune's cover story triggered a cartel meltdown, and the exact moment a casual lunch conversation became "Software Is Eating the World." This is the origin story of how A16Z broke every unwritten rule, made enemies of every top-tier firm, and permanently rewired what it means to build companies in public. Resources:Follow Marc on X: https://x.com/pmarcaFollow Ben on X: https://x.com/bhorowitzFollow Margit on X: https://x.com/wennmachersFollow Erik on X: https://x.com/eriktorenberg 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.

Atemporal
María Echeverri - ¿Fracasó el experimento start-up en Colombia? - #202

Atemporal

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 26, 2025 162:57


María Echeverri fundó Muni, una empresa que levantó 30M USD y cerró en 2022. Libros mencionados:Post mortem Muni: https://frill-crowberry-294.notion.site/Muni-f9353c653e9e4c188df58db1f4a43ef0Delivering Happiness - Tony Hsieh (https://amzn.to/3XiDW6Y)Shoe Dog - Phil Knight (https://amzn.to/4riAMxA)Secrets of Sandhill Road - Scott Kupor (https://amzn.to/48nxJf5)What you do is who you are - Ben Horowitz (https://amzn.to/4pvQyU8)Connect - David Bradford y Carole Robin (https://amzn.to/3Kp3Rqy)Maniac - Benjamin Labatut (https://amzn.to/4p4NdvF)Capítulos:00:00 intro 01:11 Copiar el modelo de Silicon Valley05:06 Hacer la carrera en Argentina10:03 Economistas colombianos vs argentinos16:27 Pasar de McKinsey a Rappi24:15 La época inicial de Rappi48:36 Pedir mercado por domicilio1:06:13 Convencer a los tenderos de usar Rappi1:18:26 ¿Por qué el modelo de negocio funciona?1:28:44 ¿Por qué cerrar la startup Muni?1:53:13 La muerte de las startups2:02:14 El post mortem de Muni2:10:53 ¿Ser rico o pobre?2:22:48 ¿Qué quedó de Muni?2:29:20 ¿Qué hago actualmente?2:32:51 El ambiente de Stanford2:37:55 Sobre libros

My First Million
We react to Bill Ackman's advice to young men

My First Million

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 20, 2025 55:20


Get the free guide on 5 Ways to Start a Business with Less Than $1k: https://clickhubspot.com/icv Episode 767: Sam Parr ( ⁠https://x.com/theSamParr⁠ ) and Shaan Puri ( ⁠https://x.com/ShaanVP⁠ ) react to Bill Ackman's dating advice for young men. Plus, the 20-something kid who's making $300K/month doing man-on-the-street interviews. — Show Notes: (0:00) May I meet you? (10:52) $300K/mo Street interviews as a service (17:14) Taking a stance (25:53) The crazy story of Pandora (30:43) Taking simple ideas seriously (37:31) Ben Horowitz, a great hang (45:49) Noticing the AI tipping point — Check Out Shaan's Stuff: • Shaan's weekly email - https://www.shaanpuri.com  • Visit https://www.somewhere.com/mfm to hire worldwide talent like Shaan and get $500 off for being an MFM listener. Hire developers, assistants, marketing pros, sales teams and more for 80% less than US equivalents. • Mercury - Need a bank for your company? Go check out Mercury (mercury.com). Shaan uses it for all of his companies! Mercury is a financial technology company, not an FDIC-insured bank. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group, Column, N.A., and Evolve Bank & Trust, Members FDIC — Check Out Sam's Stuff: • Hampton - https://www.joinhampton.com/ • Ideation Bootcamp - https://www.ideationbootcamp.co/ • Copy That - https://copythat.com • Hampton Wealth Survey - https://joinhampton.com/wealth • Sam's List - http://samslist.co/ My First Million is a HubSpot Original Podcast // Brought to you by HubSpot Media // Production by Arie Desormeaux // Editing by Ezra Bakker Trupiano //

a16z
Ben Horowitz & Marc Andreessen: Why Silicon Valley Turned Against Defense (And How We're Fixing It)

a16z

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 19, 2025 76:13


Palmer Luckey got fired from Meta for backing the wrong candidate—now he's the hero saving American defense, and that shift tells you everything about how fast the ground moved beneath Silicon Valley's feet. For decades, tech and defense were allies, then came 15 years of hostility so visceral that Google employees revolted over a Pentagon AI contract, and when leadership caved, only three people showed up to hear what border security actually involves. But something broke: COVID exposed our inability to make things, Ukraine revealed wars now iterate in days not decades, and suddenly the Harvard dorm room generation realized the people building satellites and drones weren't just necessary—they were the future, while legacy defense contractors still operate on Soviet-style five-year plans that guarantee cost overruns and obsolescence. Now the question isn't whether Silicon Valley returns to its Cold War roots, but whether America wins by becoming more like China's centralized system or doubles down on the chaotic creativity that built nine of the world's ten most valuable companies in 25 years—and the founders flooding into defense, energy, mining, and manufacturing suggest the second American century is just getting started.Resources:Follow Ben on X: https://x.com/bhorowitzFollow Marc on X: https://x.com/pmarcaFollow Katherine on X: https://x.com/KTmBoyleFollow David on X: https://x.com/daviduFollow Erik on X: https://x.com/eriktorenbergStay 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/id842818711Please 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.

a16z
Mark Zuckerberg & Priscilla Chan: How AI Will Cure All Disease

a16z

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 6, 2025 45:21


Priscilla Chan and Mark Zuckerberg join a16z's Ben Horowitz, Erik Torenberg, and Vineeta Agarwala to share how the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative is building the computational tools that will accelerate the cure, prevention, and management of all disease by century's end. They explain why basic science needs $100 million-scale projects that traditional NIH grants can't fund, how their Cell Atlas became biology's missing periodic table with millions of cells catalogued in open-source format, and why their new virtual cell models will let scientists test high-risk hypotheses in silico before investing in expensive wet lab work. Plus: the organizational shift unifying the Biohub under AI leadership, what happens when biologists and engineers sit side-by-side, and why modern biology labs are expanding compute instead of square footage. Timestamps:4:17 - Building tools to accelerate scientific discovery5:47 - The credible path to funding basic science7:21 - Biohub = Frontier Biology + Frontier AI9:05 - Challenges building on a 10-15 year timeline9:43 - How CZI chooses what to work on11:15 - Making sense of science with LLMs11:31 - Measuring success in the therapeutic realm13:32 - “Most diseases should be thought of as rare diseases”15:39 - Inspiration: building a periodic table for biology19:27 - Why virtual cells?21:17 - The Biohub Master Plan21:51 - How virtual cell models allow more risk taking28:15 - Bringing CZI & Biohub together30:32 - Why Biohub matters33:36 - The importance of interface design in democratizing scientific discovery35:34 - How Biohub encourages cross-functional collaboration40:38 - Looking ahead: the broader impact of AI on biotech 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.

Ecomm Breakthrough
Throwback: From Zero to Six Brands - The E-Commerce Journey of Kelcey Lehrich

Ecomm Breakthrough

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 6, 2025 17:28


In this episode, the host interviews Kelcey Lehrich, founder of 365 Holdings and co-founder of the HoldCo Conference. Kelcey shares her journey from traditional business to e-commerce, the growth of 365 Holdings, and the challenges of acquiring and integrating multiple brands. He discusses the purpose of the Holdco Conference for multi-business entrepreneurs, strategies for stable acquisitions, and the realities of shared services. The episode offers practical advice on self-awareness, focusing on key business levers, and learning from experience in scaling and managing holding companies.Chapters:Introduction to Kelcey Lehrich and Holdco Conference (00:00:00)Kelsey introduces himself and explains the origin and purpose of the Holdco Conference for multi-business entrepreneurs.Kelcey's Journey into E-commerce and 365 Holdings (00:02:22)Kelcey shares how he and his partner entered e-commerce, acquired their first businesses, and built 365 Holdings.365 Holdings' Structure and Focus (00:03:30)Discussion of 365 Holdings' current scale, vertical integration, and future focus on food, baby, and consumable brands.Growth Strategies: Product Launches and Acquisitions (00:04:28)Comparison of launching new products versus acquiring businesses, and the importance of consistent experimentation.What to Avoid When Acquiring Businesses (00:05:52)Kelcey outlines lessons learned and what to avoid when evaluating acquisition opportunities.365 Holdings' Core Strengths and Incremental Improvements (00:07:04)Exploration of the company's strengths, vertical integration, and focus on small, compounding operational improvements.The Reality of Shared Services in a Holdco (00:09:54)Kelcey discusses the challenges and realities of sharing services across multiple brands in a holding company.Three Actionable Takeaways for Entrepreneurs (00:11:44)Host summarizes three key lessons: self-awareness, vision and action, and learning through experience in M&A.Kelcey's Book Recommendation (00:14:03)Kelcey recommends "The Hard Thing About Hard Things" by Ben Horowitz for entrepreneurs managing growing teams.Favorite Productivity Tool (00:14:40)Kelcey shares Superhuman as his favorite email productivity tool.Influential Figures in E-commerce (00:15:25)Kelcey discusses the many people who have influenced him, mentioning Gary Vee, Roland Frazier, and others.How to Connect with Kelcey and Learn More (00:16:59)Kelcey provides ways to connect with him and learn more about Holdco Conference and 365 Holdings.Links and Mentions:Tools and ResourcesSuperhumanWebsitesHoldco Conference365 HoldingsBooksThe Hard Thing About Hard Things by Ben Horowitz on AmazonInfluential FiguresGary Vaynerchuk (Gary Vee)Roland FrasierTranscript:Josh 00:00:00  Today I'm super excited to introduce you to Kelcey Lehrich. Welcome to the podcast, Kelcey.Kelcey 00:00:05  Thank you for having me. Great to be here.Josh 00:00:06  Kelcey I attended Holdco conference. You did a fantastic job. That was your first ever Holdco conference. Tell our guests a little bit more about this Holdco conference, because I think it's really unique. And you're kind of one of the first to kind of come up with this type of holding company conference.Kelcey 00:00:24  Yeah. So I appreciate your kind words and glad you could come. And we'll see you there next year. date's coming soon. so I have a friend in town named John Wilson. you can find him on the internet. He's pretty public. he and I met, and we both have, 50 to 100 employees, multiple tens of millions of revenue, and we have multiple businesses. And we knew a few other people that had similar circumstances. And there really was no event, no conference, no, kind of home base or hangout place for people like us.Kelcey 00:00:56  And one day I'm like, hey, like, why don't we go ahead and we'll host the party. and so John and I partnered on that project, and, from January, when it was kind of hatched with the tweet to July, it was a bit of a wild ride, but it was a lot of fun. We're really proud of the first year. And, yeah, it's meant to be the place that multi business entrepreneurs called the holding company, meet, learn, scale and grow. But the kind of niche there is that if you're in software and you're venture backed, there's a conference for you. If you are in real estate, there's a conference for you. If you are in insert any industry, sales, metal stamping, mobile home parks, whatever it is, there's a conference for you. If you're a Holdco entrepreneur, there really wasn't a place to call your own. And our vision for Holdco is to be kind of that home base for people like us.Josh 00:01:43  Yeah, I love that.Josh 00:01:44  I love what you guys have started there. And I think we'll dive into that a little bit in more detail later in this podcast. But Kelcey, you've got a vast experience in e-commerce. Obviously you have a holding company that has multiple brands. You've acquired multiple e-commerce brands, you've grown them, you've scaled them. So you have a wealth of knowledge. And for our listeners that have established businesses, they're looking to take things to the next level. I think they're going to be able to learn a lot from you. So why don't we rewind the tapes a little bit? Kelcey? And why don't you tell us a little bit about how you got into the e-commerce world to begin with, and then what led to the formation of 365 holdings?Kelcey 00:02:22  So six years ago, my partner and I, his name is Justin. I'm kind of the ideas guy, and he's kind of the executor. She's familiar with iOS. I've got the kind of visionary CEO role and he's kind of the integrator or CFO, and he and I have worked there for a long time.Kelcey 00:02:37  And prior to e-commerce, it was kind of like, the same idea. However, instead of ideas and strategy and like execution, it was like I was the sales guy and he was like the ops guy and all of our prior businesses, but we weren't online. We've never, never run ads, never shipped products. But we had sold a business for just enough money to make a down payment on an SBA loan. We had sold a business for $100,000, which was a lot of money. We did not hold any of it aside for taxes. We put all 100 grand down on the $900,000 loan to buy the million dollar first business. That was how we got started. 60 days later, we drained the checking account and maxed out the line of credit and bought another one. And thus begins the compounding. So, Yeah, six years ago. by by two that that, spring and summer, we had always had a vision of back to the old topic, wanting to run many businesses. We wanted to have diversity.Kelcey 00:03:30  I guess that's like, hey, what if you focused? What if you just did one thing? Could it be bigger? And my answer is like, I don't know, probably. But this is the business I want to have. I want to do many things. one of the things financially from a diversification perspective. two, I think it's fun. It's like what I want. So like, yes, this is what I'm doing. I'm sure it's like slightly less optimal than, I don't know. but six years have elapsed and today we've got 80 some employees. Six brands. we're in Akron, Ohio, and heavily vertically integrated. So we do in-house customer service, in-house ...

The Daily Zeitgeist
Ketamine Cop Cars, Safest Hellholes 11.05.25

The Daily Zeitgeist

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 5, 2025 64:32 Transcription Available


In episode 1959, Jack and Miles are joined by comedian, Blake Wexler, to discuss… Hellhole Cities Suffering From Precipitous DROP IN CRIME YOU F**KWITS, Coke Is Using AI To Ruin Christmas Yet Again, Cybertruck Cop Cars Are Here and more! Coke Is Using AI To Ruin Christmas Yet Again Coca-Cola Reimagined Its Iconic 1995 Christmas Ad With AI And The Internet Is Outraged: ‘Actual Abomination’ Coca-Cola Doubles Down on AI Holiday Ads Despite Backlash Coca-Cola Is Trying Another AI Holiday Ad. Executives Say This Time Is Different Coca-Cola’s new AI holiday ad is a sloppy eyesore Coca-Cola | Holidays Are Coming The company says they used even fewer people to make it — “We need to keep moving forward and pushing the envelope… The genie is out of the bottle, and you’re not going to put it back in” Cybertruck Cop Cars Are Here A California police department spent $153,000 on a Cybertruck for school anti-drug events A police dept. bought a $153K Cybertruck. It won’t be used for patrols. Tesla Cybertruck Police Cars Are Here, And Of Course They're Going To Vegas First How a Silicon Valley billionaire’s gift brought Cybertruck police vehicles to Las Vegas A Tesla Cybertruck driver tried to find out just how bulletproof it is WATCH LIVE! Elon Musk presents the new Tesla Cybertruck Launch Tesla Cybertruck Isn’t Nearly as Bulletproof as Elon Musk Wants You to Think Is your car spying on you? Tesla data helped police after Las Vegas truck explosion, but experts have privacy concerns Metro’s ‘mystery’ Cybertruck donor revealed Ben Horowitz donates Cybertruck fleet to the Las Vegas police Ben Horowitz’s cozy relationship with the Las Vegas Police Department aided a16z portfolio company Skydio The Police Have A Dark Money Slush Fund LISTEN: SUNSHINE BRIGHT ON ME(CUB) by KANGAROOSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

web3 with a16z
Trump's Tech Czar on Crypto, AI, and American Innovation

web3 with a16z

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 5, 2025 78:02


with @DavidSacks @pmarca @bhorowitz @eriktorenbergToday's episode features David Sacks, the Trump administration's “AI and crypto czar," in conversation with a16z cofounders Marc Andreessen and Ben Horowitz, and General Partner Erik Torenberg.They dig into:how the U.S. is approaching AI and crypto policy,the fight over open source software,the status of tech regulation and legislation (like the CLARITY Act for crypto),what's at stake in the geopolitical race with China, and moreThis episode is a special crossover with the a16z podcast, which you can follow for more conversations like this.Timestamps:00:00 Intro01:16 David Sacks on Crypto and AI Policy02:34 Trump's Vision for Crypto06:16 The Crypto Crackdown and Debanking Years08:58 AI Regulatory Capture and Gatekeeping11:30 How Permissionless Innovation Built Silicon Valley16:21 "Woke" vs. Orwellian AI21:48 When AGI?24:29 Polytheistic AI and "End-to-End" Humans31:07 The Future of AI: Controlled or Decentralized?37:13 Open Source and Global Competition41:53 The AI Race: US vs China46:32 Amping Up Energy and Infrastructure47:17 Cultural Divides Over the American Tech Stack55:01 The European approach and Doomerism01:06:14 Crypto and the Legislative Process (GENIUS, CLARITY)01:11:13 The Future of the Democratic Party01:14:12 San Francisco Politics

a16z
Beyond Chatbots: Marc Andreessen and Ben Horowitz on AI's Future

a16z

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 31, 2025 38:11


In this closing keynote from a16z's Runtime conference, General Partner Erik Torenberg speaks with our firm's cofounders, Marc Andreessen and Ben Horowitz on highlights from throughout the conference, the current state of LLM capabilities, and why despite huge capex, AI is not a bubble. Resources:Follow Marc on X: https://x.com/pmarcaFollow Ben on X: https://x.com/bhorowitz 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.

a16z
Raghu Raghuram: AI, Robotics, and the Rebirth of Infrastructure

a16z

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 27, 2025 30:12


From Netscape to VMware, Raghu Raghuram has been at the center of nearly every major inflection point in enterprise technology.In this episode, Raghu joins Ben Horowitz, Martin Casado and David George to reflect on the early internet wars with Microsoft, how Netscape's browser battles shaped a generation of founders, and the inside story of one of the most successful tech acquisitions in history, VMware's $1.3B purchase of Nicira, which redefined modern networking and grew into a multi-billion-dollar business.They discuss how VMware scaled from tens of millions to over $13 billion in revenue, what it took to outlast the cloud revolution, and why AI is now triggering the biggest infrastructure reset since virtualization. Raghu shares his vision for the next decade — from data-center robotics and energy-aware compute to how AI is reshaping both startups and giants alike. Resources:Follow Raghu on X: https://x.com/RaghuRaghuramFollow Ben on X: https://x.com/bhorowitzFollow Martin on X: https://x.com/martin_casadoFollow David on X: https://x.com/DavidGeorge83 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.

The Exit - Presented By Flippa
The Eight-Figure Miss: Hard-Won Lessons From Multiple Exits with Danny Davis

The Exit - Presented By Flippa

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 27, 2025 36:18


Want a quick estimate of how much your business is worth? With our free valuation calculator, answer a few questions about your business, and you'll get an immediate estimate of the value of your business. You might be surprised by how much you can get for it: https://flippa.com/exit -- Danny Davis, CEO of Hyperfi, shares hard-won lessons from multiple exits including taking a cannabis tech company public and missing an eight-figure investment in Loom. Key Topics: • How a hospital bed insight led to patenting the world's first cannabis cartridge filling system • Why board control is make-or-break for successful exits (and what happened when he lost it) • The revenue vs. investment dilemma: when to kill your cash cow for the bigger bet • Being Loom's first customer, offered to be first investor, and saying no—an eight-figure miss • Why he only invests in founder-led companies now (even controversial ones like Travis's Uber) • Building Hyperfi: applying Ben Horowitz's People → Product → Profit formula • The "N+1 strategy" for risk management every entrepreneur needs • Why timing is everything: two years makes the difference between too early and too late Biggest Takeaway: "For every person I talk to that has hindsight, they always had an inkling. The mistakes happen when you sell yourself short or get out too early." Danny went from 13 years in corporate IT to multiple successful exits by spotting pattern-breaking opportunities in taboo markets. Now he's building Hyperfi, an AI-powered IT procurement platform solving a $1.5 trillion problem. -- Danny Davis is a multi-exit founder, technologist, and hands-on operator known for building companies that push industries forward. From taking Convectium public at a $100M+ valuation to leading W3Box.io's blockchain and AI-powered membership systems for global brands, his ventures bridge the physical and digital worlds. Holding eight patents across connected packaging and authentication, Danny's work sits at the intersection of design, code, and commerce. Now founder of HyperFi, an AI-native enterprise IT platform, he leads with precision, purpose, and his guiding motto: “Break to Fix.” LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dannydavis12/ Website - https://hyperfi.ai/ -- The Exit—Presented By Flippa: A 30-minute podcast featuring expert entrepreneurs who have been there and done it. The Exit talks to operators who have bought and sold a business. You'll learn how they did it, why they did it, and get exposure to the world of exits, a world occupied by a small few, but accessible to many. To listen to the podcast or get daily listing updates, click on flippa.com/the-exit-podcast/

Wunderbar Together
Wie hast du eine der erfolgreichsten Firmen im Silicon Valley aufgebaut, Margit Wennmachers?

Wunderbar Together

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 21, 2025 66:36


Margit Wennmachers ist die vielleicht einflussreichste Storytellerin im Silicon Valley – tritt selbst aber nur selten vors Mikrofon: Dass sie heute bei Wunderbar Together zu Gast ist und Felix dafür in seiner Wohnung an der Upper West Side besucht hat, ist also eine besondere Ehre für uns. Als PR-Pionierin hat Margit das Tech-Storytelling neu erfunden – und im Hintergrund die Narrative einer Industrie geprägt. Jetzt startet ihr „drittes Karriere-Kapitel“ – uns erzählt sie, was sie vorhat.

The Twenty Minute VC: Venture Capital | Startup Funding | The Pitch
20VC: Deel CEO Alex Bouaziz on Raising $300M+ at a $17BN Valuation | Deel vs Rippling: WTF is Going On | Management Lessons from Ben Horowitz and Nik Storonsky | Deel's M&A Playbook: Lessons from 13 Acquisitions: What Works & What Doesn't

The Twenty Minute VC: Venture Capital | Startup Funding | The Pitch

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 20, 2025 75:23


Alex Bouaziz is the Co-Founder and CEO @ Deel, the $17BN global payroll juggernaut that just last week announced their latest $300M fundraise led by Ribbit, a16z and Coatue. Deel has been on the most insane journey, they do $1BN+ in ARR, they just had their first $100M revenue month and they have been profitable for over 3 years.  AGENDA: 03:38 Announcing $300M Fundraise at a $17BN Valuation 06:24 Rippling vs Deel: WTF is Going On? Where is the Lawsuit?  14:01 Why 1-1s Are BS and Leaders Should Stop Doing Them 17:31 Do Rich Leaders Make Better Leaders 28:33 Biggest Lesson from Ben Horowitz? Why Most CMOs Are Bad? 34:48 Lessons from Nik @ Revolut and Why Companies Need to Make Their Own Software 42:23 Deel's Acquisition Playbook: Lessons from 13 Acquisitions 45:17 How to Price Acquisitions? How to Align Incentives with Founders? 55:45 Deel is Profitable and Growing Fast: When is the IPO? 01:01:35 Best Acquisition Ever + Worst Ever: What Did We Learn?  

a16z
Ben Horowitz and Ali Ghodsi: How to Run a Billion-Dollar Business

a16z

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 10, 2025 67:30


Ben Horowitz founded Loudcloud in the middle of the dot-com bust and sold it for $1.6 billion, then led Andreessen Horowitz from its founding to $46 billion in committed capital. Ali Ghodsi co-founded Databricks, stepped in as CEO during a crisis, and led it to a valuation of over $100 billion.In this episode of “Boss Talk”, Ben and Ali join a16z General Partners Sarah Wang and Erik Torenberg to share founder war stories, how to hire and make deals, how to keep culture intense without burning employees out, and why founders should raise their ambitions even higher. ResourcesFollow Ali on X: https://x.com/alighodsiLearn more about Databricks: https://www.databricks.com/Follow Ben on X: https://x.com/bhorowitzFollow Sarah on X: https://x.com/sarahdingwangFollow Erik on X: https://x.com/eriktorenberg Stay Updated: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, subscribe, and share with your friends!Resources:Find a16z on X: https://x.com/a16zSubscribe to a16z on Substack: https://a16z.substack.com/Find 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/eriktorenberg 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.

a16z
Ben Horowitz: Why Hesitation is a CEO's Worst Enemy

a16z

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2025 95:38


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.

Lenny's Podcast: Product | Growth | Career
$46B of hard truths from Ben Horowitz: Why founders fail and why you need to run toward fear (a16z co-founder)

Lenny's Podcast: Product | Growth | Career

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 11, 2025 97:59


Ben Horowitz is the co-founder of Andreessen Horowitz, Silicon Valley's largest and most influential venture capital firm, with over $46B in committed capital across multiple funds. He took Loudcloud public with just $2 million in revenue (dubbed “the IPO from hell”), sold it for $1.6 billion, and has backed companies from Facebook to Stripe to Airbnb to OpenAI to Databricks (now worth more than $100 billion). His management philosophy—forged through near-death experiences and refined through coaching hundreds of CEOs—contradicts most conventional startup wisdom.In our conversation, Ben shares:1. Why “founder mode” is half right and half dangerously wrong2. The story behind “Good Product Manager/Bad Product Manager” and why it went viral despite being written in anger3. Where the biggest AI startup opportunities remain4. Why you need to run toward fear, never away5. The one trait that predicts that a founder will fail as CEO6. Inside Paid in Full, Ben's nonprofit awarding pensions to pioneering hip-hop artists—Brought to you by:DX—The developer intelligence platform designed by leading researchers: http://getdx.com/lennyBasecamp—The famously straightforward project management system from 37signals: https://www.basecamp.com/lennyMiro—A collaborative visual platform where your best work comes to life: https://miro.com/lenny—Transcript: https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/46b-of-hard-truths-from-ben-horowitz—My biggest takeaways (for paid newsletter subscribers): ⁠https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/i/172439345/my-biggest-takeaways-from-this-conversation—Where to find Ben Horowitz:• X: https://x.com/bhorowitz• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/behorowitz/• Website: https://benhorowitz.com/• Andreessen Horowitz's website: https://a16z.com/—Where to find Lenny:• Newsletter: https://www.lennysnewsletter.com• X: https://twitter.com/lennysan• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lennyrachitsky/—In this episode, we cover:(00:00) Introduction to Ben Horowitz(04:09) Important leadership lessons from Shaka Senghor(10:15) Running toward fear and why hesitation kills companies(19:35) Who shouldn't start a company(22:36) The Databricks story: thinking bigger(24:54) Managerial leverage and CEO psychology(28:06) When founders should be replaced as CEOs(31:20) Normalizing failure for CEOs(37:57) Counterintuitive lessons about building companies(42:31) “Good Product Manager/Bad Product Manager”(48:21) Product managers as leaders(51:16) Why a16z invested in Adam Neumann after WeWork(56:23) Is AI in a bubble?(01:02:43) The biggest opportunities in AI(01:12:51) Why U.S. leadership in AI matters(01:18:53) The Paid in Full Foundation for hip-hop pioneers(01:23:18) Lightning round: book recommendations, products, and life mottos—References: https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/46b-of-hard-truths-from-ben-horowitz—Production and marketing by https://penname.co/. For inquiries about sponsoring the podcast, email podcast@lennyrachitsky.com.Lenny may be an investor in the companies discussed. To hear more, visit www.lennysnewsletter.com

Business Leadership Series
Episode 1432: NYT Best Selling Author Shaka Senghor: How to Be Free

Business Leadership Series

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 7, 2025 41:17


NYT bestselling author Shaka Senghor talks with Derek Champagne about his personal story and his powerful new book, How to Be Free: A Proven Guide to Escaping Life's Hidden Prisons."I love this book—because it teaches you how to manifest freedom in your own life and how that work allows you to rise to your greatest glory." —Oprah Winfrey, The Oprah PodcastAfter 19 years in prison—7 of them in solitary—Shaka emerged not just with a story, but with a methodology. In this book, he distills the inner work that helped him survive, heal, and grow into practical tools that anyone can apply to their own life.Because not all prisons have bars. We all live inside systems, stories, and cycles that can hold us back—doubt, fear, disconnection. And for men in particular, a flawed definition of manhood—emotional suppression, isolation, performative strength—can quietly destroy us. Shaka challenges that directly and offers a radically honest path to healing, self-trust, and real leadership.Each chapter blends hard-won wisdom with actionable steps (including “Keys to” sections at the end of each chapter that offer concrete, practical guidance), perfect for readers hungry for a path that's real, not performative. Shaka's work has been praised by figures ranging from Oprah to Ben Horowitz, and he's regularly sought after by CEOs and changemakers for his insights on leadership, trust, and mindset.Business Leadership Series Intro and Outro music provided by Just Off Turner: https://music.apple.com/za/album/the-long-walk-back/268386576

a16z
How to Be Free: Shaka Senghor, Oprah Winfrey, Ben Horowitz

a16z

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 5, 2025 36:33


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.

a16z
Ben Horowitz on How a16z Was Built

a16z

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 23, 2025 43:34


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.

The Twenty Minute VC: Venture Capital | Startup Funding | The Pitch
20Sales: $0-$4BN: The Databricks CRO's Playbook to Build the Fastest GTM Engine in SaaS History | How Databricks Beat Snowflake | How To Build a Sales Org of 5,000 and Close $190M Deals with Ron Gabrisko

The Twenty Minute VC: Venture Capital | Startup Funding | The Pitch

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 1, 2025 75:36


Ron Gabrisko is the Chief Revenue Officer at Databricks, where he joined in 2016. Under his leadership, Databricks has scaled from $0 to over $4BN in annual revenue. He has grown the sales team from 0 to over 1,000 globally, leading expansion into enterprise, government, and international markets. Ron previously held senior sales roles at Cloudera and IBM, bringing deep experience in data and AI infrastructure. His tenure at Databricks has been defined by hypergrowth, multi-product adoption, and world-class GTM execution. Agenda for Today: 00:04 – The Databricks Origin Story: Ali, Ben Horowitz & 7 PhDs 00:08 – Ali vs JPMorgan: Turning Down $10M to Stay Cloud-First 00:13 – Prospecting Day: How Ron Scaled the GTM Culture 00:16 – Why Databricks' Pricing Model Was Its Secret Weapon 00:19 – Enterprise vs SMB: The Risky Bet That Paid Off 00:23 – From $2M to $13M ARR: How Ron Built the First Sales Engine 00:29 – Can AI Replace Salespeople? Ron's Brutally Honest Take 00:36 – How to Get Your First Million-Dollar Rep (and Keep Them) 00:42 – The Culture Secret Behind Scaling to 5,000 Sales Reps 00:45 – Why Databricks Waited Until $500M ARR to Go International 00:52 – What Makes a Great Sales Meeting? Ron's Gold Standard 00:58 – The Snowflake Wars: Why Ron Says Databricks Is 5 Years Ahead  

Podcast Notes Playlist: Latest Episodes
Ben and Marc on New Media: Podcasts, Politics & the Collapse of Trust

Podcast Notes Playlist: Latest Episodes

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 1, 2025


A16z Podcast: Read the notes at at podcastnotes.org. Don't forget to subscribe for free to our newsletter, the top 10 ideas of the week, every Monday --------- 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.

Fintech Confidential
From Street Hustler to Fintech CEO - Victor ‘DIVINE' Lombard's Journey with Ben Horowitz's Mentorship

Fintech Confidential

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2025 53:18


GETMORE HEREDiscover how Victor “DIVINE” Lombard went from street hustler to fintech CEO, with guidance from Ben Horowitz, and a mission to transform how finance serves overlooked communities.Fintech entrepreneur Victor “DIVINE” Lombard shares his journey from street hustler to CEO, revealing how mentorship, compliance, and purpose-driven startups can transform access to financial tools with Tedd Huff Voalyre CEO on Fintech Confidential. They to expose the blind spots in today's financial system and why creators are locked out before they even get started.With firsthand experience on both sides of the table, Victor reveals how he's building purpose-driven fintech to empower independent artists with access to financial services, real mentorship, and education. This isn't theory—it's a blueprint, shaped by hard-earned lessons and grounded in reality.Together, they unpack: • Why traditional banking metrics fail creators • How compliance, when mastered, can build trust—not block progress • What it takes to design sustainable financial ecosystems from the ground up • Why mentorship often matters more than a credit scoreWhether you're a startup founder, creative entrepreneur, or fintech builder—this conversation delivers rare, real insight.Takeaways1️⃣ Build Systems Before You Scale – Early structure avoids chaos later2️⃣ Use Compliance To Build Credibility – Master regulation before you need it3️⃣ Train Your Team Like Operators – Start onboarding with education4️⃣ Pitch Value, Not Your Backstory – Focus on what you're solving5️⃣ Design Products For Real Use – Reflect real workflows, not trendsLinksVictor Lombard (aka DIVINE)Instagram: www.instagram.com/divine4thletterNotesWebsite: www.notestechnology.comLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/notestechnologyFacebook: www.facebook.com/notestechnologyincYouTube: www.youtube.com/@notestechnologyInstagram: www.instagram.com/notestechnologyFintech ConfidentialPodcast: https://fintechconfidential.com/listenNewsletter: https://fintechconfidential.com/accessLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fintechconfidentialX: https://x.com/FTconfidentialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fintechconfidentialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/fintechconfidentialSupportersUnder.io – Streamline your underwriting and application process by digitizing PDFs and enabling secure, fast digital signatures. https://under.io/ftcDfns – Launch wallets across 50+ blockchains with API-first, MPC-secured tools trusted by top fintechs and custodians. https://fintechconfidential.com/dnfsSkyflow – Secure, tokenize, and analyze personal data with a zero-trust privacy vault delivered via API. https://skyflowsecure.comHawk:AI – Detect fraud in real time with ML transaction monitoring and advanced risk scoring. https://getHawkai.comAboutVictor Lombard (aka DIVINE): Fintech founder and hip hop artist empowering urban music creators with capital access and financial education.Notes: Fintech platform helping artists build sustainable wealth through education, mentorship, and smarter financial tools.Tedd Huff: Founder of Voalyre and...

a16z
Ben and Marc on New Media: Podcasts, Politics & the Collapse of Trust

a16z

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 25, 2025 97:50


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.

The Rachel Hollis Podcast
868: MASTERMIND | Our Best Advice for HIGH ACHIEVERS!

The Rachel Hollis Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2025 49:14


In this episode, Rach delves into the significance of putting in the time and energy to gain skills that lead to personal fulfillment. She introduces highly motivated guests such as Tim Grover, Jesse Itzler, Tom Bilyeu, Yvonne Orji, and Ben Horowitz.Original Air Date: October 12, 2023Get your copy of Rachel's New Book Here: Audible, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Millon, Bookshop.org, or wherever books are sold!00:23 Welcome and Podcast Subscription Request01:17 Unapologetic Motivation for High Achievers02:57 Belief in Yourself and Handling Criticism04:06 The Importance of Allies and Honest Feedback05:55 The Journey vs. Destination Debate09:36 Networking and Building Relationships16:32 Consistency and Planting Seeds for Success21:10 Implementing and Sticking to Values22:42 The Importance of Trust and Loyalty in Culture23:04 The Power of Stories in Shaping Culture26:46 Balancing Cultural Values: Empathy and Honor30:21 Starting a Comedy Career in New York33:11 The Struggles and Rewards of Running a Comedy Room35:12 The Reality of Pursuing Dreams and Financial Stability37:31 The Role of Growth Mindset in Achieving Success42:45 The True Meaning of Fulfillment and SuccessSign up for Rachel's weekly email: https://msrachelhollis.com/insider/Call the podcast hotline and leave a voicemail! Call (737) 400-4626Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/RachelHollisMotivation/videosFollow along on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/MsRachelHollisTo learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices. 

The Leadership Sparq
Ben Horowitz Agrees! This Is Your Most Powerful Leadership Tool

The Leadership Sparq

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2025 5:12


In this episode, we remind you of the most powerful tool in your leadership toolbox.

a16z
Ben Horowitz: What Founders Must Know About AI and Crypto

a16z

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 11, 2025 82:32


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

Capital Allocators
Michael Ovitz – Reinventing Talent and Building Momentum at Treville (EP.455)

Capital Allocators

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 7, 2025 70:12


Michael Ovitz is the legendary co-founder of Creative Artists Agency, where he transformed Hollywood's talent business and built the most powerful force in entertainment. In his time at CAA, Michael shaped the trajectories of artists, filmmakers, and companies, including actors Tom Cruise, Kevin Costner, Bill Murray, Sylvester Stallone, and Barbra Streisand, filmmaker Steven Spielberg, author Michael Crichton, talk show host David Letterman, the Coca Cola Company, and many, many more. Michael transitioned from entertainment to investing thirty years ago, advising Marc Andreesen and Ben Horowitz on the creation of a16z, and most recently, partnering with Ali Hamed as Chairman of Treville Capital Group. Ali has twice been a past guest on the show, and those conversations are replayed in the feed. Our conversation begins with Michael's formative influences from his upbringing, early lessons that shaped his relentless drive, and origins of CAA. We cover his fascination with creativity, CAA's culture of empowerment, honesty, and momentum, and frameworks for building businesses, assessing talent, focusing on relationships, and learning from new industries. We then turn to Michael's recent work with Ali at Treville. We discuss the beginning of their partnership, the process of scaling, the building of momentum, and the systems that foster accountability, relentless follow-up, and refreshing of relationships. Michael closes with candid reflections on his mistakes and life lessons that continue to shape his remarkable path. Learn More Follow Ted on Twitter at @tseides or LinkedIn Subscribe to the mailing list Access Transcript with Premium Membership

a16z
How Andreessen Horowitz Disrupted VC & What's Coming Next

a16z

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 7, 2025 83:01


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/

a16z
Adam Neumann: This is How You Build Iconic Companies

a16z

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 16, 2025 89:51


In this recent episode of The Ben & Marc Show, a16z co-founders Marc Andreessen and Ben Horowitz sit down with Adam Neumann—founder of WeWork and now Flow—to unpack one of the most unlikely comeback storie s in tech.What began as a personal reckoning after a very public fall has become a bold new vision for how we live and belong. Flow isn't just a real estate company—it's an operating system for community, built on first-principles software, design, and soul.Joined by a16z General Partner Erik Torenberg, the group goes deep on:Why Adam's childhood shaped his obsession with communityAdam's fall from WeWork—and how he found a new path to redemptionHow Flow is re-architecting real estate from scratchWhy loneliness is the greatest design challenge of our timeWith reflections on dyslexia, the American dream, and the thin line between failure and greatness, this is a candid and wide-ranging conversation about redemption, vision, and building something that matters in this world. We hope you enjoy this deeply human conversation about the future of living.Timecodes00:00 Introduction 00:51 Adam's Early Life and Family Background07:56 Military Service and Discipline10:08 Transition to the US and Education14:43 Entrepreneurial Journey Begins17:49 The Concept of Flow and Vision20:28 Meeting and Partnership Formation25:22 Overcoming Challenges and Resilience28:30 The Isolation Phenomenon30:03 Navigating Post-Crisis Relationships31:50 Real Estate Strategies During COVID33:47 The Genesis of a New Venture36:47 Lessons from WeWork38:49 Building Flow: The Vision41:44 The Importance of Alignment51:23 Technological Innovations in Real Estate55:44 Revolutionizing Real Estate Software and Flexible Living Solutions56:28 Challenges and Innovations in Multifamily Housing Rental Markets58:40 Global Housing Crisis and Solutions01:06:10 Expanding to Saudi Arabia01:08:49 Success in Saudi Arabia01:12:43 Real Estate Funds and Future Plans01:19:10: Why Is This an Opportunity? 01:20:45 Impact of COVID on Living and Working01:26:14 Future Potential of Housing and LivingResources: Read Marc's blog post about Flow: https://a16z.com/announcement/flow/Marc on X: https://x.com/pmarca Marc's Substack: https://pmarca.substack.com/ Ben on X: https://x.com/bhorowitz Erik on X: https://x.com/eriktorenberg Erik's Substack: https://eriktorenberg.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.

Design Better Podcast
Christopher Lyons: From producing music to venture capital, and why EQ beats IQ in building the future

Design Better Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2025 18:25


This is a preview of a premium episode. To get access to the full episode, head to our Substack: https://designbetterpodcast.com/p/christopher-lyons Some careers have clear through lines: pick a college major, get a job in that industry. Others take serendipitous turns. Christopher Lyons is the latter, but with some surprising twists. Chris started his career as a music producer with Jermaine Dupri, founder of So So Def records in Atlanta, a role that honed his eye for recognizing talent and helping them reach their potential. Then, he joined renowned venture capital team Andresen Horowitz where he helped connect talent to business opportunities by creating the Cultural Leadership Fund. Eventually, he became a general partner at the firm. We talk to Chris about why he thinks EQ is far more important than IQ in a successful career, how he connects creative thinkers to business opportunities, and the common threads he sees across all creative disciplines. Bio Christopher Lyons is a visionary leader and President of Web3 Media at a16z crypto. Since joining a16z in 2013 as chief of staff to Ben Horowitz, he has helped shape the firm's strategic direction—most notably by launching the Cultural Leadership Fund (CLF) in 2018 and co-founding a16z's $400M Seed Fund in 2021. The CLF broke ground as Silicon Valley's first venture fund with an all-Black LP base, bridging cultural leaders from sports, music, and entertainment with the tech world while advancing opportunities for Black builders and creators. Lyons began his career as a sound engineer, working with Grammy-winning producer Jermaine Dupri before founding PictureMenu, a mobile menu platform. He now serves on the boards of Yuga Labs, the James Beard Foundation, the Black Economic Alliance, and New Story Charity. A Kauffman Fellow and founder of Lyons Wine, he brings a spirit of craftsmanship and mentorship to everything he does, including his continued involvement with Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. *** Premium Episodes on Design Better This is a premium episode on Design Better. We release two premium episodes per month, along with two free episodes for everyone. Premium subscribers also get access to the documentary Design Disruptors and our growing library of books. You'll also get access to our monthly AMAs with former guests, ad-free episodes, discounts and early access to workshops, and our monthly newsletter The Brief that compiles salient insights, quotes, readings, and creative processes uncovered in the show. Upgrade to paid ***

a16z
Rick Rubin: Vibe Coding is the Punk Rock of Software

a16z

Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2025 76:08


In this episode a16z co-founders Marc Andreessen and Ben Horowitz sit down with legendary music producer and bestselling author Rick Rubin to explore the origin of his unexpected new creation: "The Way of Code"*Blending ancient philosophy and modern AI, The Way of Code reimagines the 3,000-year-old Tao Te Ching for the age of artificial intelligence, software, and “vibe coding.” What began as a viral tweet quickly evolved into a creative manifesto—part book, part tool, part spiritual operating system for the future. Joined by a16z General Partners Anjney Midha and Erik Torenberg, the group dives deep into: How Rick became a meme for Vibe Coding —and then quickly wrote "The Way of Code"Why AI is just another artistic toolRemix culture, creativity, and collective consciousnessWhy great founders and artists need to stay true to themselvesWith shout outs to punk rock, the collective unconscious, and Johnny Cash's famed acoustic sessions, this conversation is a sprawling, soul-searching journey across music, philosophy, tech, and truth. We hope you enjoy this deeply personal and surprisingly practical conversation on how to live—and create—in the age of AI. The Way of Code:  https://www.thewayofcode.com/“Tools will come and tools will go. Only the vibe coder remains.” - Rick Rubin Resources: Watch the Tetragrammaton podcast: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5Gat6FdyiG5ydUUHqPTAEQRick on X: https://x.com/rickrubinMarc on X: https://x.com/pmarcaMarc's Substack: https://pmarca.substack.com/Ben on X: https://x.com/bhorowitzErik on X: https://x.com/eriktorenbergErik's Substack: https://eriktorenberg.substack.com/Anjney on X: https://x.com/AnjneyMidha 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
Inside a16z with Ben & Marc: Dream Builders Only

a16z

Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2025 33:14


Recorded live at the 2025 a16z LP Summit, this episode is a candid conversation between a16z cofounders Marc Andreessen and Ben Horowitz—hosted by general partner Erik Torenberg.They cover the evolution of a16z from startup firm to multi-practice platform, how the media landscape is shaped by meme-speed narratives, why reorgs—not just returns—determine who wins, and what it takes to build an enduring venture franchise.They also share thoughts on the changing policy landscape for AI and crypto, the firm's bipartisan approach to Washington—and why Marc personally screens social media profiles before anyone joins the team. Resources: Find Marc on X: https://x.com/pmarcaFind Ben on X: https://x.com/bhorowitz 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: 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 $100 MBA Show
MBA2620 How To Save Your Business From Going Out Of Business

The $100 MBA Show

Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2025 9:52


Is your business on the brink, and you're feeling the heat? Profits are slipping, costs are climbing, and time is running out to turn it around. If it feels like your business is hanging by a thread, this episode is a must-listen.Omar gets straight to the point with a practical action plan for those make-or-break moments. Inspired by the tough-love insights from The Hard Thing About Hard Things by Ben Horowitz, he'll walk you through key steps to get back on track. From cutting costs and refocusing your team, to breaking the rules when it's called for, this episode is packed with strategies you can use right now.It's time to step up, embrace the “wartime CEO” mindset, and make the tough calls that could save your business. Hit play at the top of the page and let Omar guide you through the process with wisdom from his own hard-earned experience!-Watch the episodes on YouTube: https://lm.fm/GgRPPHiSUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed

Impact Theory with Tom Bilyeu
AI Is Coming for Your Job—Elon Musk, OpenAI & The AI Arms Race | Ben Horowitz PT 2

Impact Theory with Tom Bilyeu

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2025 46:23


Welcome back to part two of this captivating episode of "Impact Theory with Tom Bilyeu," as Tom continues his conversation with the brilliant Ben Horowitz. In this segment, they delve deeper into the intricacies of AI, discussing its finite capabilities compared to human intelligence and what it means for future job markets. They explore the roles of intelligence in leadership, the societal impact of enhanced automation, and the potential of blockchain technology to counteract AI's challenges. As Ben highlights the significance of maintaining a world-class stance in crypto for societal stability in the age of AI, this half of the episode promises to challenge preconceived notions and introduce groundbreaking concepts about the future of technology and humanity. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on how we can coexist and thrive alongside these digital advancements. SHOWNOTES: 13:36 - AI's Limitations Compared to Human Intelligence 17:59 - The Role of Intelligence in Leadership 22:41 - Societal Impact of Automation 27:32 - Blockchain's Role in the Age of AI 33:23 - Maintaining a World-Class Crypto Presence 40:41 - Predictions and Controversial Views on Future Tech FOLLOW BEN HOROWITZ: Twitter: https://twitter.com/bhorowitz CHECK OUT OUR SPONSORS Range Rover: Range Rover: Explore the Range Rover Sport at https://rangerover.com/us/sport Audible: Sign up for a free 30 day trial at https://audible.com/IMPACTTHEORY  Vital Proteins: Get 20% off by going to https://www.vitalproteins.com and entering promo code IMPACT at check out Thrive Market: ​​Go to https:thrivemarket.com/impact for 30% off your first order, plus a FREE $60 gift! Tax Network: Stop looking over your shoulder and put your IRS troubles behind you. Call 1-800-958-1000 or visit https://tnusa.com/impact ITU: Ready to breakthrough your biggest business bottleneck? Apply to work with me 1:1 - https://impacttheory.co/SCALE American Alternative Assets: If you're ready to explore gold as part of your investment strategy, call 1-888-615-8047 or go to https://TomGetsGold.com Mint Mobile: If you like your money, Mint Mobile is for you. Shop plans at https://mintmobile.com/impact.  DISCLAIMER: Upfront payment of $45 for 3-month 5 gigabyte plan required (equivalent to $15/mo.). New customer offer for first 3 months only, then full-price plan options available. Taxes & fees extra. See MINT MOBILE for details.  ********************************************************************** What's up, everybody? It's Tom Bilyeu here: If you want my help... STARTING a business: join me here at ZERO TO FOUNDER SCALING a business: see if you qualify here. Get my battle-tested strategies and insights delivered weekly to your inbox: sign up here. ********************************************************************** If you're serious about leveling up your life, I urge you to check out my new podcast, Tom Bilyeu's Mindset Playbook —a goldmine of my most impactful episodes on mindset, business, and health. Trust me, your future self will thank you. ********************************************************************** Join me live on my Twitch stream. I'm live daily from 6:30 to 8:30 am PT at www.twitch.tv/tombilyeu ********************************************************************** LISTEN TO IMPACT THEORY AD FREE + BONUS EPISODES on APPLE PODCASTS: apple.co/impacttheory ********************************************************************** FOLLOW TOM: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tombilyeu/ Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tombilyeu?lang=en Twitter: https://twitter.com/tombilyeu YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TomBilyeu Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Impact Theory with Tom Bilyeu
AI Is Coming for Your Job—Elon Musk, OpenAI & The AI Arms Race | Ben Horowitz PT 1

Impact Theory with Tom Bilyeu

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2025 52:27


Join us for part one of this enlightening episode of "Impact Theory with Tom Bilyeu," where Tom converses with the insightful Ben Horowitz, co-founder of the venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz, known for his deep understanding of technology and business strategy. In this first segment, they dive into the transformative impact of artificial intelligence and its broader implications on society. Ben shares his thoughts on how technological advancements, like AI, can disrupt existing industries and the challenges of ensuring these innovations benefit all, rather than just a select few. The conversation addresses the potential misconceptions and misnamed aspects of AI, the historic parallels with past technological shifts, and considerations for the future workforce. Horowitz offers a perspective on how AI could shape new jobs and eliminate others, emphasizing the importance of human creativity and adaptability in this rapidly changing landscape. SHOWNOTES: 00:00 - Welcome and Introduction of Ben Horowitz 00:26 - Impact of AI on Society and Innovation 02:23 - Misconceptions about AI 04:17 - Historic Parallels with Past Technological Shifts 06:07 - Human Creativity and New Job Creation 08:55 - Future Workforce and Adaptability 11:32 - Balancing AI Development and Regulation FOLLOW BEN HOROWITZ: Twitter: https://twitter.com/bhorowitz CHECK OUT OUR SPONSORS Range Rover: Range Rover: Explore the Range Rover Sport at https://rangerover.com/us/sport Audible: Sign up for a free 30 day trial at https://audible.com/IMPACTTHEORY  Vital Proteins: Get 20% off by going to https://www.vitalproteins.com and entering promo code IMPACT at check out Thrive Market: ​​Go to https:thrivemarket.com/impact for 30% off your first order, plus a FREE $60 gift! Tax Network: Stop looking over your shoulder and put your IRS troubles behind you. Call 1-800-958-1000 or visit https://tnusa.com/impact ITU: Ready to breakthrough your biggest business bottleneck? Apply to work with me 1:1 - https://impacttheory.co/SCALE American Alternative Assets: If you're ready to explore gold as part of your investment strategy, call 1-888-615-8047 or go to https://TomGetsGold.com Mint Mobile: If you like your money, Mint Mobile is for you. Shop plans at https://mintmobile.com/impact.  DISCLAIMER: Upfront payment of $45 for 3-month 5 gigabyte plan required (equivalent to $15/mo.). New customer offer for first 3 months only, then full-price plan options available. Taxes & fees extra. See MINT MOBILE for details.  ********************************************************************** What's up, everybody? It's Tom Bilyeu here: If you want my help... STARTING a business: join me here at ZERO TO FOUNDER SCALING a business: see if you qualify here. Get my battle-tested strategies and insights delivered weekly to your inbox: sign up here. ********************************************************************** If you're serious about leveling up your life, I urge you to check out my new podcast, Tom Bilyeu's Mindset Playbook —a goldmine of my most impactful episodes on mindset, business, and health. Trust me, your future self will thank you. ********************************************************************** Join me live on my Twitch stream. I'm live daily from 6:30 to 8:30 am PT at www.twitch.tv/tombilyeu ********************************************************************** LISTEN TO IMPACT THEORY AD FREE + BONUS EPISODES on APPLE PODCASTS: apple.co/impacttheory ********************************************************************** FOLLOW TOM: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tombilyeu/ Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tombilyeu?lang=en Twitter: https://twitter.com/tombilyeu YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TomBilyeu Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Honestly with Bari Weiss
Marc Andreessen on AI, Tech, Censorship, and Dining with Trump

Honestly with Bari Weiss

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 10, 2024 105:35


Democrats once seemed to have a monopoly on Silicon Valley. Perhaps you remember when Elon Musk bought Twitter and posted pictures of cabinets at the old office filled with “#StayWoke” T-shirts. But just as the country is realigning itself along new ideological and political lines, so is the tech capital of the world. In 2024, many of the Valley's biggest tech titans came out with their unabashed support for Donald Trump. There was, of course, Elon Musk. . . but also WhatsApp co-founder Jan Koum; Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, who run the cryptocurrency exchange Gemini; VCs such as Shaun Maguire, David Sacks, and Chamath Palihapitiya; Palantir co-founder Joe Lonsdale; Oculus and Anduril founder Palmer Luckey; hedge fund manager Bill Ackman; and today's Honestly guest, one of the world's most influential investors and the man responsible for bringing the internet to the masses—Marc Andreessen.  Marc's history with politics is a long one—but it was always with the Democrats. He supported Democrats including Bill Clinton in 1996, Al Gore in 2000, and John Kerry in 2004. He endorsed Barack Obama in 2008 and then Hillary Clinton in 2016. But over the summer, he announced that he was going to endorse and donate to Trump. Public records show that Marc donated at least $4.5 million to pro-Trump super PACs. Why? Because he believed that the Biden administration had, as he tells us in this conversation, “seething contempt” for tech, and that this election was existential for AI, crypto, and start-ups in America.  Marc got his start as the co-creator of Mosaic, the first widely used web browser, which is said to have launched the internet boom. He then co-founded Netscape, which became the most popular web browser in the '90s, and sold it to AOL in 1999 for $4.2 billion. He later became an angel investor and board member at Facebook. And in 2006, when everyone told Mark Zuckerberg to sell Facebook to Yahoo for $1 billion, Marc was the only voice saying: don't. (Today, Facebook has a market cap of $1.4 trillion.) He now runs a venture capital firm with Ben Horowitz, where they invest in small start-ups that they think have potential to become billion-dollar unicorns. And their track record is pretty spot-on: They invested in Airbnb, Coinbase, Instagram, Instacart, Pinterest, Slack, Reddit, Lyft, and Oculus—to name a few of the unicorns. (And for full disclosure: Marc and his wife were small seed investors in The Free Press.) Marc has built a reputation as someone who can recognize “the next big thing” in tech and, more broadly, in our lives. He has been called the “chief ideologist of the Silicon Valley elite,” a “cultural tastemaker,” and even “Silicon Valley's resident philosopher-king.” Today, Bari and Marc discuss his reasons for supporting Trump—and the vibe shift in Silicon Valley; why he thinks we've been living under soft authoritarianism over the last decade and why it's finally cracking; why he's so confident in Elon Musk and his band of counter-elites; how President Biden tried to kill tech and control AI; why he thinks AI censorship is “a million times more dangerous” than social media censorship; why technologists are the ones to restore American greatness; what Trump serves for dinner; why Marc has spent about half his time at Mar-a-Lago since November 5; and why he thinks it's morning in America. Go to groundnews.com/Honestly to get 50% off the unlimited access Vantage plan and unlock world-wide perspectives on today's biggest news stories. If you liked what you heard from Honestly, the best way to support us is to go to TheFP.com and become a Free Press subscriber today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices