Podcast appearances and mentions of neal bloom

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube.Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News!I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners.My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter.Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!1/5/2026Draft numbers of total VC Investment into SD Companies in 2025: $3.4BSelect top fundings:* Tech:* ShieldAI $240M, Cybereason $120M, Flock Fleight $60M, Clearspeed $60M, FABRIC8LABS $50M, Equip $46M* Biotech:* Crystalis Therapeutics $205M; Timberlyne Therapeutics $180M; Protego Biopharma $130M; Aspen Neuroscience $115M; Raythera $110M2025 Acquisitions:* Avidity $12B by Novartis* Cidara Therapeutics $9.2B Merck* Capstan Thera $2.1B by AbbVie* Arthrosi Thera $1B* Kate Thera $1.1B* Regulus Therapeutics acquired by Novartis ($1.7B)* Nalu Medical $500MIPOs:* Aardvark Thera* Aptera* Once Upon A Farm* Carlsmed* MapLight Therapeutics2026 Predictions* More IPOs & M&A, market up* Fundings up, in specific areas, more in other markets than SD* More return to office, in specific areasCarta Startup Ranking - San Diego #6Trust & Will Holiday BowlTED announced move to SDCurated Events List – For full list – check The Social CoyoteCES - Jan. 5-10Carlsbad Industry Exchange - Jan. 6JPM - Jan. 12-15State of Venture event - Jan. 29 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, host Neal Bloom sits down with Jared Tangney, co-founder and CTO of Biolinq. From their early EvoNexus days to today's FDA clearance, Jared walks us through the incredible journey of Biolinq - how it pivoted from sweat-sensing tattoos to a revolutionary microneedle platform that can measure glucose, lactate, and even cortisol with no blood and no pain.Jared shares how a Mailchimp newsletter led to their first investor, Mark Cuban, and why he believes San Diego is the global epicenter for biosensing innovation. With a focus on serving the largest segment of the diabetes population and plans to expand into broader metabolic and stress biomarkers, Biolinq is changing what's possible in wearable health tech.Key Topics Covered:* How Biolinq's microneedle platform works and why it matters* From sweat-based sensors to skin-based semiconductors* Lessons from nearly a decade of R&D and pivots* Measuring glucose, lactate, and now cortisol - what's next?* How a newsletter sign-up brought Mark Cuban in as the first investor* Navigating FDA clearance and commercialization strategies* San Diego's competitive edge in biosensing, diabetes tech, and medical wearables* The growing importance of AI and multi-analyte sensing in personal health* Reflections on community, startup persistence, and tacos (Fish 101 for the win)Links & Resources:Learn more about BiolinqConnect with Jared Tangney:LinkedIn This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms.Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News!I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners and the Tacos and Tech Podcast.My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter.Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!11/21BlueTech Week / UCSD Space SymposiumDefense Tech in SD is goingPrebys Ventures writes 5 checksBrainstorm Thera wins NVIDIA AwardTechnology FundingsFabric8Labs Raises $50MMuse Software Raises $4.5MInfracost Raises $15M Series ABiotech FundingsIambic Therapeutics $100M Series BModel Medicines Raises $3MCurated Events List – For full list – check The Social Coyote This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

On this episode of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, Neal Bloom sits down with Julie Sokol, Chief Technology Officer of OC Sports & Entertainment, to explore the intersection of immersive fan experiences, smart infrastructure, and placemaking through technology. Julie shares her journey from nearly 25 years in management consulting with Accenture to real estate with the Irvine Company, and now helping shape the ambitious 100+ acre OC Vibe sports and entertainment district surrounding the Honda Center in Anaheim.From making parking frictionless to redefining what it means to be a digital concierge, Julie and her team are building more than a venue - they're crafting a next-generation, tech-enabled community destination. Neal and Julie discuss everything from women's sports and live entertainment to infrastructure partnerships with Cox and supporting local chefs and rising performers.Key Topics Covered:* Julie's career journey from Accenture to real estate to OC Sports & Entertainment* What OC Vibe is and how it's reshaping the Southern California experience* Building a “smart” sports + entertainment district from the ground up* How tech enables seamless, immersive guest experiences* Collaborating with Cox and other partners on broadband and infrastructure* Supporting women's sports, the 2028 Olympics, and the World Volleyball Championship* Launching a curated food hall and investing in local culinary talent* The role of data in powering the digital concierge and connected community* What it's like building tech leadership on a greenfield projectAbout Julie Sokol:Julie is the Chief Technology Officer of OC Sports & Entertainment, leading the digital and tech transformation of OC Vibe - a 100+ acre mixed-use sports, entertainment, hospitality, and residential district built around the Honda Center in Anaheim. Previously, she held senior leadership roles at Accenture and the Irvine Company.Resources & Links:* OC Vibe Website* Learn more about the Honda Center* Connect with Julie Sokol on LinkedIn This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms.Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News!I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners and the Tacos and Tech Podcast.My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter.Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!11/8Eric Topol AI x Healthcare talk debriefGA launches new droneScripps and UCSD win $4M grant for stem cell researchGSK pens a $750M deal with SD-based EmpiricoQualcomm Ventures Celebrates 25th AnniversaryTide Rock Reaches $1B in Acquisition CapitalCurated Events List – For full list – check The Social Coyote This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms.Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News!I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners and the Tacos and Tech Podcast.My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter.Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!10/30Uncharted : Pitches DebriefM&A NewsAvidity Acquired by Novartis for $12BHologic Acquired by Blackstone and TPGState of Life SciencesThe SD Investor List goes liveFundingsWalla raise $5MUnigrid Battery Receives $2.9M GrantWildcat Discovery Technologies $4.9MASML / Cymer competitor comes out of stealthQualcomm AI chipEDC Recognizes 30 Top Companies in San Diego: Nautilus, LENZ Therapeutics, etc.Curated Events List – For full list – check The Social CoyoteSD Founders Hike - Nov 7 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms.Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News!I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners and the Tacos and Tech Podcast.My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter.Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!10/10SD Startup Week debriefState of Biotech EcosystemFunding News* Turnout $21M Seed* Crystalys Therapeutics $205M Series A* Once Upon a Farm IPOSnapdragon Summit - Qualcomm announcements & Eyepop AI announcementsCurated Events List – For full list – check The Social CoyoteSD Founders Hike - Oct 10Stocktoberfest Oct 20-22Carlsbad Industry Exchange - Biotech - Oct 22SD Defense Tech Coffee / Build Day Oct 23 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms. Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News! I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners and the Tacos and Tech Podcast. My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter. Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!   10/10 SD Startup Week debrief State of Biotech Ecosystem Funding News Turnout $21M Seed Crystalys Therapeutics $205M Series A Once Upon a Farm IPO Snapdragon Summit - Qualcomm announcements & Eyepop AI announcements Curated Events List – For full list – check The Social Coyote SD Founders Hike - Oct 10 Stocktoberfest Oct 20-22 Carlsbad Industry Exchange - Biotech - Oct 22 SD Defense Tech Coffee / Build Day Oct 23

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms.Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News!I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners and the Tacos and Tech Podcast.My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter.Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!10/3Defense Tech Gathering debriefFred's story on Harpoon's Black FlagAvenzo Therapeutics series BCrinetics wins FDA approvalBiolinq receives de novo designationEli Lily new ribbon cuttingAlvys Series BAirport opened T1New Alaska Airlines lounge comingCal San Marcos Receives $10 million for STEM buildingSempra selling a $10B stake in Sempra InfrastructureCurated Events List – For full list – check The Social CoyoteStartup Week Oct 6-10Connect New Leadership EventSD Defense Tech Gathering - Oct 23 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, host Neal Bloom sits down with Aleksey Matyushev, co-founder and CEO of Natilus, the San Diego-based aerospace company reinventing air freight and passenger travel with next-gen aircraft. With over $39 billion in orders and a growing footprint in South County, Natilus is bringing cutting-edge manufacturing back to San Diego. Aleksey shares his journey from growing up near a Soviet airfield to becoming an aerodynamicist at Piper and Kratos. He walks us through the founding story of Natilus, early pivots from seaplanes to blended wing bodies, and how customer feedback (and cold emails) helped shape the company's strategy. Plus, we dive into capital efficiency, certification pathways, and how Natilus is carving out space in a market long dominated by Boeing and Airbus. Key Topics Covered: The legacy of aerospace in San Diego and why Natilus is doubling down here Aleksey's path from Piper Aircraft to Kratos to Natilus Lessons learned from military-grade drones and commercial aviation The first MVP: a 30-foot autonomous seaplane built in 14 months Why cargo came first - and how airlines asked for passenger planes next The Kona and Horizon: aircraft designed for freight and people, optimized for fuel, volume, and cost Navigating testing, tooling, and certification with just $15M in capital raised Why wind tunnels, FAA approvals, and Brown Field are key San Diego assets How India became a fast-moving market for commercial orders The future of aviation as seen from South County, San Diego Links & Resources Natilus Learn more about Rising Tide Partners Connect with Aleksey & Neal Connect with Aleksey on LinkedIn Connect with Neal Bloom on LinkedIn

In this episode of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, host Neal Bloom sits down with Aleksey Matyushev, co-founder and CEO of Natilus, the San Diego-based aerospace company reinventing air freight and passenger travel with next-gen aircraft. With over $39 billion in orders and a growing footprint in South County, Natilus is bringing cutting-edge manufacturing back to San Diego.Aleksey shares his journey from growing up near a Soviet airfield to becoming an aerodynamicist at Piper and Kratos. He walks us through the founding story of Natilus, early pivots from seaplanes to blended wing bodies, and how customer feedback (and cold emails) helped shape the company's strategy. Plus, we dive into capital efficiency, certification pathways, and how Natilus is carving out space in a market long dominated by Boeing and Airbus.Key Topics Covered:* The legacy of aerospace in San Diego and why Natilus is doubling down here* Aleksey's path from Piper Aircraft to Kratos to Natilus* Lessons learned from military-grade drones and commercial aviation* The first MVP: a 30-foot autonomous seaplane built in 14 months* Why cargo came first - and how airlines asked for passenger planes next* The Kona and Horizon: aircraft designed for freight and people, optimized for fuel, volume, and cost* Navigating testing, tooling, and certification with just $15M in capital raised* Why wind tunnels, FAA approvals, and Brown Field are key San Diego assets* How India became a fast-moving market for commercial orders* The future of aviation as seen from South County, San DiegoLinks & Resources* Natilus* Learn more about Rising Tide PartnersConnect with Aleksey & Neal* Connect with Aleksey on LinkedIn* Connect with Neal Bloom on LinkedIn This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms. Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News! I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners and the Tacos and Tech Podcast. My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter. Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!   9/19 Broader Defense Tech: Harpoon x Firestorm Mixer Debrief El Segundo Defense Tech Mixer Debrief Firestorms Labs opens 60,000 SFT Facility in Mira Mesa   Biotech: Treeline Biosciences emerges from stealth with $200M backed by ARCH Venture. Arnatar Therapeutics focused on precision RNA therapies emerges from stealth. Debut Bio raises and expands to Asia Yatiri - acquired another startup Luna Diabetes raises a Series A   Curated Events List – For full list – check The Social Coyote Sept 26 - Defense Tech Gathering Oct 3-5 Startup Weekend Oct 6-10 SD Startup Week

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms.Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News!I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners and the Tacos and Tech Podcast.My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter.Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!9/19Broader Defense Tech:Harpoon x Firestorm Mixer DebriefEl Segundo Defense Tech Mixer DebriefFirestorms Labs opens 60,000 SFT Facility in Mira MesaBiotech:Treeline Biosciences emerges from stealth with $200M backed by ARCH Venture.Arnatar Therapeutics focused on precision RNA therapies emerges from stealth.Debut Bio raises and expands to AsiaYatiri - acquired another startupLuna Diabetes raises a Series ACurated Events List – For full list – check The Social CoyoteSept 26 - Defense Tech GatheringOct 3-5 - Startup WeekendOct 6-10 - SD Startup Week This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

They dive deep into:The evolution of the San Diego startup scene since 2013 The power of founder-led communities and grassroots events Why curated connections matter more than vanity metrics Lessons from Startup Week, EvoNexus, and Startup San Diego The rise of angel investing groups like Interlock and Rising Tide Partners Challenges San Diego faces compared to Silicon Valley and how to overcome them If you are a founder, investor, or community builder looking to understand the future of San Diego tech, this is a must-listen conversation.Key Topics & TakeawaysStartup Communities Framework: Why Brad Feld's Startup Communities is Neal's “startup bible” Investing in People, Not Just Companies: Neal's philosophy of betting on founders first From Coffee Meetings to Community Hubs: Why San Diego needs physical spaces for collisions, not just coworking desks The State of San Diego Startups: Momentum, challenges, and opportunities post-COVID Founder-Led Movement: How entrepreneurs can create “gravity wells” to attract investors, talent, and resources Event Co-Founders: How to keep community events consistent and impactful without founder burnout Don't forget to subscribe to the Chaos to Clarity Podcast for more invaluable episodes to help you grow your business and stay ahead of the curve!To reach out to Eric, visit https://chaostoclarity.io/

In this episode of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, host Neal Bloom sits down with Eric Birkemeier, founder of ShredLights and now part of Meepo Electric Skateboards. Eric's story is a wild ride - from 3D-printing in the SDSU ZIP Launchpad and selling Jordans out of thrift stores, to building a niche hardware company and ultimately exiting to a global electric skateboard brand.They unpack how Eric turned an early failed Kickstarter into a business with over $1M+ in revenue (with zero ad spend!), the importance of discovering product-market fit through real customer feedback, and the emotional rollercoaster of running and eventually selling a hardware startup during a downturn. From bootstrapping to navigating COVID, tariffs, and copycats - Eric shares what it really takes to get to the finish line (and how the finish line is just another beginning).Key Topics Covered:* From basement builds to business: Eric's early love for inventing and entrepreneurship* The SDSU ZIP Launchpad, finding community, and the startup that wasn't a fit* Why the wrong customers helped him discover the right market* Pivoting from skate culture to the growing micro-mobility movement* Scaling from 3D printers to overseas supply chains - and the lessons from doing it the hard way* How Kyle and Eric's founder relationship helped them navigate burnout, illness, and transition* Building trust with manufacturers and how one trip to China changed everything* Financial forecasting, staying lean, and prepping for an acquisition* The gritty, real story behind selling a business - and what Eric's learned about what comes nextLinks & Resources:* ShredLights* Meepo Electric Skateboards* Physics Girl on YouTubeConnect with Eric & Neal* Connect with Eric Birkemeier* Connect with Neal Bloom This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, host Neal Bloom sits down with Eric Birkemeier, founder of ShredLights and now part of Meepo Electric Skateboards. Eric's story is a wild ride - from 3D-printing in the SDSU ZIP Launchpad and selling Jordans out of thrift stores, to building a niche hardware company and ultimately exiting to a global electric skateboard brand. They unpack how Eric turned an early failed Kickstarter into a business with over $1M+ in revenue (with zero ad spend!), the importance of discovering product-market fit through real customer feedback, and the emotional rollercoaster of running and eventually selling a hardware startup during a downturn. From bootstrapping to navigating COVID, tariffs, and copycats - Eric shares what it really takes to get to the finish line (and how the finish line is just another beginning). Key Topics Covered: From basement builds to business: Eric's early love for inventing and entrepreneurship The SDSU ZIP Launchpad, finding community, and the startup that wasn't a fit Why the wrong customers helped him discover the right market Pivoting from skate culture to the growing micro-mobility movement Scaling from 3D printers to overseas supply chains - and the lessons from doing it the hard way How Kyle and Eric's founder relationship helped them navigate burnout, illness, and transition Building trust with manufacturers and how one trip to China changed everything Financial forecasting, staying lean, and prepping for an acquisition The gritty, real story behind selling a business - and what Eric's learned about what comes next Links & Resources: ShredLights Meepo Electric Skateboards Physics Girl on YouTube Connect with Eric & Neal Connect with Eric Birkemeier Connect with Neal Bloom

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms.Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News!I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners, building and investing in community.My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter.Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!Aug 22Defense Tech Founders Event Recap of autonomous tech and military end-usersNew org leaders: Connect - James Z. Naturally San Diego - Renee Solares Techstars - Misti CainBuyBack Ventures launchesFundingSrt Therapeutics - $47MCeresti $11MIlundent - $4M Seed RoundM&AGroGuru acquired by Goanna AgGatsby acquired KlayvioCurated Events List – For full list – check The Social CoyoteDefense Tech Build Day - Aug 28Gaming Gathering Build Day - Sept 2SD Defense at SoCal Deep Tech - Sept 16 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms. Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News! I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners, building and investing in community. My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter. Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!   Aug 22 Defense Tech Founders Event Recap of autonomous tech and military end-users New org leaders: Connect - James Z. Naturally San Diego - Renee Solares Techstars - Misti Cain BuyBack Ventures launches   Funding Srt Therapeutics - $47M Ceresti $11M Ilundent - $4M Seed Round   M&A GroGuru acquired by Goanna Ag Gatsby acquired Klayvio   Curated Events List – For full list – check The Social Coyote Defense Tech Build Day - Aug 28 Gaming Gathering Build Day - Sept 2 SD Defense at SoCal Deep Tech - Sept 16

In this episode of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, Neal Bloom sits down with Larsen Jensen, former Olympian, Navy SEAL, and now Managing Partner of Harpoon Ventures, an early-stage venture firm backing founders building in the national interest.Larsen shares the journey from serving Team USA to launching a venture fund focused on what he calls the Freedom Stack - critical technologies like AI, autonomy, cybersecurity, and advanced manufacturing that shape not just industry, but national security and global stability.They explore how Harpoon was early to the intersection of tech and geopolitics, why San Diego is uniquely positioned to lead in hardtech and defense innovation, and how founders can better navigate the path to working with the U.S. government through Harpoon's new initiative: Black Flag Incubator.Key Topics Covered:* Larsen's Olympic and Navy SEAL background, and how it shaped his service-driven mission in venture* The original thesis behind Harpoon Ventures - and how the market caught up* Defining the "Freedom Stack": AI, cyber, energy, compute, defense, and more* The rise of government demand for critical technologies* Black Flag Incubator: helping founders navigate government engagement* Why San Diego is poised for hardtech and national security innovation* Advice for early-stage founders working in dual-use or deep tech* The importance of founder communities, ecosystem building, and paying it forward* Larsen's go-to taco spot (hint: it's inside Petco Park)Links & Resources:* Harpoon Ventures* Black FlagConnect with Larsen & Neal:* Larsen Jensen on LinkedIn* Neal Bloom on LinkedIn* Follow @NealBloom on Twitter This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, Neal Bloom sits down with Larsen Jensen, former Olympian, Navy SEAL, and now Managing Partner of Harpoon Ventures, an early-stage venture firm backing founders building in the national interest. Larsen shares the journey from serving Team USA to launching a venture fund focused on what he calls the Freedom Stack - critical technologies like AI, autonomy, cybersecurity, and advanced manufacturing that shape not just industry, but national security and global stability. They explore how Harpoon was early to the intersection of tech and geopolitics, why San Diego is uniquely positioned to lead in hardtech and defense innovation, and how founders can better navigate the path to working with the U.S. government through Harpoon's new initiative: Black Flag Incubator. Key Topics Covered: Larsen's Olympic and Navy SEAL background, and how it shaped his service-driven mission in venture The original thesis behind Harpoon Ventures - and how the market caught up Defining the "Freedom Stack": AI, cyber, energy, compute, defense, and more The rise of government demand for critical technologies Black Flag Incubator: helping founders navigate government engagement Why San Diego is poised for hardtech and national security innovation Advice for early-stage founders working in dual-use or deep tech The importance of founder communities, ecosystem building, and paying it forward Larsen's go-to taco spot (hint: it's inside Petco Park) Links & Resources: Harpoon Ventures Black Flag Connect with Larsen & Neal: Larsen Jensen on LinkedIn Neal Bloom on LinkedIn Follow @NealBloom on X

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms.Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News!I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners and the Tacos and Tech Podcast.My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter.Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!Aug 15SDEE event debriefBiotech layoffs: Thermo, Poseida TherapeuticsEquillium raiseScale Bio acquired by 10X GenomicsPlantible opens a 100-acre manufacturing module in TexasBAE Shipyard Gains Defense Build ContractsPrebys Foundation Donates $1M to support grant medical researchCurated Events List – For full list – check The Social CoyoteDefense Tech Build Day - Aug 28Gaming Gathering Build Day - Sept 2SD Defense at SoCal Deep Tech Week - Sept 16 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms. Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News! I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners and the Tacos and Tech Podcast. My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter. Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!   Aug 15 SDEE event debrief Biotech layoffs: Thermo, Poseida Therapeutics Equillium raise Scale Bio acquired by 10X Genomics Plantible opens a 100-acre manufacturing module in Texas BAE Shipyard Gains Defense Build Contracts Prebys Foundation Donates $1M to support grant medical research   Curated Events List – For full list – check The Social Coyote Defense Tech Build Day - Aug 28 Gaming Gathering Build Day - Sept 2 SD Defense at SoCal Deep Tech Week - Sept 16

In this episode of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, Neal Bloom sits down with Madeline Fraser, the dynamic founder and CEO of Gemist, a B2B SaaS and AI company revolutionizing the jewelry industry.Madeline shares how a frustrating search for a custom engagement ring sparked the idea for Gemist, which now powers customization, stone sourcing, and hyper-realistic rendering for jewelry brands and retailers. With deep product insight and two previous startups under her belt - including an appearance on Shark Tank and an exit into the gaming space - Madeline unpacks how her creative background and startup experience led her to build scalable tech that's reshaping a centuries-old industry.They talk about her time on The Pitch (where she met Neal and landed Gemist's first investment round), her vision for modernizing the jewelry shopping experience, and why customization is no longer optional for today's customers.Key Topics Covered:* How Madeline turned a personal pain point into Gemist's founding story* Her Shark Tank experience - and why the deal didn't go through* What it's really like to bootstrap vs. fundraise* Why user testing came before writing a single line of code* The tech stack behind Gemist's jewelry customization engine* Scaling B2B SaaS in a traditional industry* The future of Gemist: watches, new verticals, and profitability* Startup lessons from interior design to jewelry tech* Why every founder needs grit, agility, and a chip on their shoulderLinks & Resources:* GemistConnect with Madeline & Neal* Madeline on LinkedIn* Neal Bloom on LinkedIn* @NealBloom on Twitter This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, Neal Bloom sits down with Madeline Fraser, the dynamic founder and CEO of Gemist, a B2B SaaS and AI company revolutionizing the jewelry industry. Madeline shares how a frustrating search for a custom engagement ring sparked the idea for Gemist, which now powers customization, stone sourcing, and hyper-realistic rendering for jewelry brands and retailers. With deep product insight and two previous startups under her belt - including an appearance on Shark Tank and an exit into the gaming space - Madeline unpacks how her creative background and startup experience led her to build scalable tech that's reshaping a centuries-old industry. They talk about her time on The Pitch (where she met Neal and landed Gemist's first investment round), her vision for modernizing the jewelry shopping experience, and why customization is no longer optional for today's customers. Key Topics Covered: How Madeline turned a personal pain point into Gemist's founding story Her Shark Tank experience - and why the deal didn't go through What it's really like to bootstrap vs. fundraise Why user testing came before writing a single line of code The tech stack behind Gemist's jewelry customization engine Scaling B2B SaaS in a traditional industry The future of Gemist: watches, new verticals, and profitability Startup lessons from interior design to jewelry tech Why every founder needs grit, agility, and a chip on their shoulder Links & Resources: Gemist Connect with Madeline & Neal Madeline on LinkedIn Neal Bloom on LinkedIn @NealBloom on Twitter

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms.Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News!I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners and the Tacos and Tech Podcast.My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter.Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!August 8Debrief Startup SD 1st Mondays event at KILN Rancho BernardoNew Connect CEOAI products:* Seismic AI* Metro MOICFundings:* Equip Health $47M* Trovata $9M Extension Series BSaronic moves into SDAgX Food Hub moves forwardCurated Events List – For full list – check The Social CoyoteSD Defense Build Day - Aug 28Gaming Build Day - Sept 2SD Defense at SoCal Deep Tech - Sept 16 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms. Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News! I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners and the Tacos and Tech Podcast. My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter. Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community! August 8 Debrief Startup SD 1st Mondays event at KILN Rancho Bernardo New Connect CEO AI products: Seismic AI Metro MOIC Fundings: Equip Health $47M Trovata $9M Extension Series B Saronic moves into SD AgX Food Hub moves forward   Curated Events List – For full list – check The Social Coyote SD Defense Build Day - Aug 28 Gaming Build Day - Sept 2 SD Defense at SoCal Deep Tech - Sept 16

In this special episode of the podcast, host Neal Bloom takes us inside the Burbank Startup Pitch Fest - an exciting evening of innovation, capital, and community hosted in partnership with the City of Burbank and Rising Tide Partners.We kick things off with a welcome from Burbank's Economic Development team, highlighting why the city is fast becoming a tech and media hub. Neal then moderates a candid conversation with early-stage investors Amy Harmon (Innovent Capital) and Ben Kahan (Pegasus Angel Accelerator) about today's venture landscape - from what they look for in a pre-seed deal to how AI and founder-market fit are shaping startup success.Then, five founders take the stage to pitch their startups:* KATSHID: A frictionless, passwordless biometric identity platform* Geri Gadgets: Sensory tools supporting cognitive wellness in dementia and neurodivergent populations* Blip Industries: Drone-powered logistics, imaging, and defense systems* Health-e-Habits: Digital wellness programming helping families build mindful relationships with tech* Aspivix (Winner): A modern, non-traumatic alternative to the gynecological tenaculum, improving IUD and reproductive careFrom pitch insights to early-stage investing frameworks, this episode is packed with startup wisdom and a strong dose of real talk from the entrepreneurial front lines.Recorded live at Burbank Startup Pitch Fest 2025. Join us at the next Burbank Tech Talks on October 14 during #LATechWeek. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

In this special episode of the podcast, host Neal Bloom takes us inside the Burbank Startup Pitch Fest - an exciting evening of innovation, capital, and community hosted in partnership with the City of Burbank and Rising Tide Partners. We kick things off with a welcome from Burbank's Economic Development team, highlighting why the city is fast becoming a tech and media hub. Neal then moderates a candid conversation with early-stage investors Amy Harmon (Innovent Capital) and Ben Kahan (Pegasus Angel Accelerator) about today's venture landscape - from what they look for in a pre-seed deal to how AI and founder-market fit are shaping startup success. Then, five founders take the stage to pitch their startups: KATSHID: A frictionless, passwordless biometric identity platform Geri Gadgets: Sensory tools supporting cognitive wellness in dementia and neurodivergent populations Blip Industries: Drone-powered logistics, imaging, and defense systems Health-e-Habits: Digital wellness programming helping families build mindful relationships with tech Aspivix (Winner): A modern, non-traumatic alternative to the gynecological tenaculum, improving IUD and reproductive care From pitch insights to early-stage investing frameworks, this episode is packed with startup wisdom and a strong dose of real talk from the entrepreneurial front lines. Recorded live at Burbank Startup Pitch Fest 2025.

In this special recorded event episode, Neal Bloom sits down with Trust & Will co-founder and CEO Cody Barbo in front of a live audience at SDSU's Angel Academy. It's an honest, behind-the-scenes conversation on what it really takes to back founders at the earliest of stages especially when they are bouncing back from tragedy.Cody and Neal reflect on startup missteps, co-founder breakups, raising from friends and angels, and how real trust (and real checks) get built over breakfast, not pitch decks. From being fired from his last venture to scaling Trust & Will to tens of millions in ARR, Cody shares a decade's worth of hard-won lessons with humor, humility, and insight.Whether you're a first-time founder, active angel, or just startup-curious, this candid session is packed with real talk about how relationships, not just revenue, power great companies.Key Topics Covered* Cody's path from SDSU student to three-time founder* The co-founder breakup that led to Trust & Will* Lessons from getting fired as a CEO* Why Neal invested in Cody before a product even existed* Raising from 26 angels with $10K–$40K checks* What great investors do before they wire money* The power of monthly updates and founder–investor trust* Behind the scenes of Techstars, Series A/B, and scaling to tens of millions in ARR* Advice for founders on protecting themselves and choosing aligned investors* How angels can create value before, during, and after the check clearsLinks & Resources* Trust & Will* Rising Tide Partners* San Diego Angel ConferenceConnect with Cody* Cody Barbo on LinkedInConnect with Neal* Neal Bloom on LinkedIn This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, host Neal Bloom sits down with Alex Adler, co-founder of Puesto, to talk about how a family with no restaurant background built one of the most beloved modern taco brands in the country. From its La Jolla beginnings to an expanding restaurant group that includes Marisi and Romana Norte, Puesto has grown through a mix of culinary authenticity, operational innovation, and cultural conviction. Alex shares the origin story of Puesto, early pivots that reshaped their entire concept, how Toast and DoorDash changed the game for their operations, and how they've kept taco trends and consumer tastes at the heart of their menu. Plus, we talk about non-alcoholic innovation, building culture at scale, and yes—his all-time favorite taco. Key Topics Covered The family roots of Puesto and why hospitality was a leap of faith How Puesto went from food stand concept to a multi-state operation The early pivot from fast-casual to full-service that changed everything Why crispy cheese and house-made tortillas are non-negotiables How Puesto adapted during COVID—and doubled down on delivery Tech tools that transformed operations (Toast, DoorDash integrations) Balancing menu staples with taco trend experimentation Why they built their own non-alcoholic tequila alternative Expansion news: new Puesto location, new concepts, and out-of-state growth Filet mignon taco, pistachio-serrano salsa, and why they still ring the bell Links & Resources Puesto Restaurants Marisi La Jolla Connect with Alex Adler LinkedIn: Alex Adler Connect with Neal Bloom LinkedIn Twitter: @NealBloom

In this episode of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, host Neal Bloom sits down with Alex Adler, co-founder of Puesto, to talk about how a family with no restaurant background built one of the most beloved modern taco brands in the country. From its La Jolla beginnings to an expanding restaurant group that includes Marisi and Romana Norte, Puesto has grown through a mix of culinary authenticity, operational innovation, and cultural conviction.Alex shares the origin story of Puesto, early pivots that reshaped their entire concept, how Toast and DoorDash changed the game for their operations, and how they've kept taco trends and consumer tastes at the heart of their menu. Plus, we talk about non-alcoholic innovation, building culture at scale, and yes—his all-time favorite taco.Key Topics Covered* The family roots of Puesto and why hospitality was a leap of faith* How Puesto went from food stand concept to a multi-state operation* The early pivot from fast-casual to full-service that changed everything* Why crispy cheese and house-made tortillas are non-negotiables* How Puesto adapted during COVID—and doubled down on delivery* Tech tools that transformed operations (Toast, DoorDash integrations)* Balancing menu staples with taco trend experimentation* Why they built their own non-alcoholic tequila alternative* Expansion news: new Puesto location, new concepts, and out-of-state growth* Filet mignon taco, pistachio-serrano salsa, and why they still ring the bellLinks & Resources* Puesto Restaurants* Marisi La JollaConnect with Alex Adler* LinkedIn: Alex AdlerConnect with Neal Bloom* LinkedIn* Twitter: @NealBloom This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms.Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News!I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners and the Tacos and Tech Podcast.My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter.Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!July 11* Funding:* Firestorm $47m Series A* Field Medical raises again* Tang Capital acquires* SoftEye acquired* AI Launches:* Trust & Will launches new AI platform* Wealth tech Copia AI new partnership* Comma AI valued at $1B* Clickup's AI Agent gets top ranking by G2* Atrium Energy powering commercial properties* Alexandria Signs 466k Lease with Big Pharma* Oku launches into Sprouts* Modal AI in the new U.S. Defense Department videoCurated Events List – For full list – check The Social Coyote This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

In this special recorded event episode, Neal Bloom sits down with Trust & Will co-founder and CEO Cody Barbo in front of a live audience at SDSU's Angel Academy. It's an honest, behind-the-scenes conversation on what it really takes to back founders at the earliest of stages especially when they are bouncing back from tragedy. Cody and Neal reflect on startup missteps, co-founder breakups, raising from friends and angels, and how real trust (and real checks) get built over breakfast, not pitch decks. From being fired from his last venture to scaling Trust & Will to tens of millions in ARR, Cody shares a decade's worth of hard-won lessons with humor, humility, and insight. Whether you're a first-time founder, active angel, or just startup-curious, this candid session is packed with real talk about how relationships, not just revenue, power great companies. Key Topics Covered Cody's path from SDSU student to three-time founder The co-founder breakup that led to Trust & Will Lessons from getting fired as a CEO Why Neal invested in Cody before a product even existed Raising from 26 angels with $10K–$40K checks What great investors do before they wire money The power of monthly updates and founder–investor trust Behind the scenes of Techstars, Series A/B, and scaling to tens of millions in ARR Advice for founders on protecting themselves and choosing aligned investors How angels can create value before, during, and after the check clears Links & Resources Trust & Will Rising Tide Partners San Diego Angel Conference Connect with Cody Cody Barbo on LinkedIn Connect with Neal Neal Bloom on LinkedIn  

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms.   Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News! I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners and the Tacos and Tech Podcast. My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter. Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!   July 11 Funding: Firestorm $47m Series A Field Medical raises again Tang Capital acquires SoftEye acquired   AI Launches: Trust & Will launches new AI platform Wealth tech Copia AI new partnership Comma AI valued at $1B Clickup's AI Agent gets top ranking by G2 Atrium Energy powering commercial properties Alexandria Signs 466k Lease with Big Pharma Oku launches into Sprouts Modal AI in the new U.S. Defense Department video   Curated Events List – For full list – check The Social Coyote

In this episode of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, host Neal Bloom sits down with Arman and Andrew, of Podhaus, a full-service podcast production studio based in Burbank, CA. From launching just before COVID to building one of LA's most sought-after recording spaces, the duo shares how they went from music engineering and tech backgrounds to building a creative business in the heart of the media capital, Burbank, CA.We dive into what makes a podcast studio succeed, how to think about production versus authenticity, and why audio always matters more than video. Plus, we get real about gear recommendations for on-location podcasting, changes in podtech like Substack and Spotify, and what it takes to attract the right clients - from beginners to corporate teams.Key Topics Covered* The unexpected origins of Podhaus - and how it pivoted from a music studio to podcast-only* The difference between polished production and authentic podcasting - and why authenticity wins* Why good audio trumps everything else (yes, even video)* Three studio setups Podhaus offers and how creators pick their aesthetic* Who the ideal client is (hint: it's not always beginners)* Studio tips for on-location recording (gear, lighting, and sound)* Tech trends: Substack's clip editor, Spotify's new comment features, and the race to own podcaster workflows* Favorite LA taco spots from classic lengua to artisanal lambLinks & Resources* PodhausConnect with Arman & Andrew* Arman Zeytounyan* Andrew ZeytounyanConnect with Neal Bloom* LinkedIn: Neal Bloom* Twitter: @NealBloom This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, host Neal Bloom sits down with Arman and Andrew, of Podhaus, a full-service podcast production studio based in Burbank, CA. From launching just before COVID to building one of LA's most sought-after recording spaces, the duo shares how they went from music engineering and tech backgrounds to building a creative business in the heart of the media capital, Burbank, CA. We dive into what makes a podcast studio succeed, how to think about production versus authenticity, and why audio always matters more than video. Plus, we get real about gear recommendations for on-location podcasting, changes in podtech like Substack and Spotify, and what it takes to attract the right clients - from beginners to corporate teams. Key Topics Covered The unexpected origins of Podhaus - and how it pivoted from a music studio to podcast-only The difference between polished production and authentic podcasting - and why authenticity wins Why good audio trumps everything else (yes, even video) Three studio setups Podhaus offers and how creators pick their aesthetic Who the ideal client is (hint: it's not always beginners) Studio tips for on-location recording (gear, lighting, and sound) Tech trends: Substack's clip editor, Spotify's new comment features, and the race to own podcaster workflows Favorite LA taco spots from classic lengua to artisanal lamb Links & Resources Podhaus Connect with Arman & Andrew Arman Zeytounyan Andrew Zeytounyan Connect with Neal Bloom LinkedIn: Neal Bloom Twitter: @NealBloom

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms. Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News! I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners and the Tacos and Tech Podcast. My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter. Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!   July 7 Events debrief - Andy Ballester/SD Tech Founders event Macro market is feeling positive Carlsmed files for IPO Capstan Thera acquired Aquacycl - International expansion through MetroConnect Blossomhill Therapuetics moves in new HQ   Fundings: Gallant Therapeutics - $18M Arialys Therapeutics - $14M Kelly Slater moved his brand to SD   Curated Events List – For full list – check The Social Coyote July 8 - Afternoon Founders Hike July 29 - Dev & Data x CTO Talks: Healthtech Night - link coming soon

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms.Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News!I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners and the Tacos and Tech Podcast.My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter.Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!July 7Events debrief - Andy Ballester/SD Tech Founders eventMacro market is feeling positiveCarlsmed files for IPOCapstan Thera acquiredAquacycl - International expansion through MetroConnectBlossomhill Therapuetics moves in new HQFundings:Gallant Therapeutics - $18MArialys Therapeutics - $14MKelly Slater moved his brand to SDCurated Events List – For full list – check The Social CoyoteJuly 8 - Afternoon Founders HikeJuly 29 - Dev & Data x CTO Talks: Healthtech Night - link coming soon This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, host Neal Bloom chats with Jeremy Yamaguchi, Founder and CEO of Cabana. A longtime tech builder in the home services space, Jeremy is now focused on modernizing the pool care industry, one of the largest yet most overlooked service sectors in the U.S.Jeremy shares how his product and marketing background led him to build Cabana with a blend of operational efficiency, software tooling, and local team empowerment. He dives into his strategy around vertical SaaS, customer experience, and the importance of trust and taste when scaling service-based businesses.Key Topics Covered* Why the pool industry is primed for tech-enabled reinvention* Cabana's approach to building a national brand through software and service* How acquisitions, W-2 teams, and onboarding systems set Cabana apart* Why founder psychology and team culture matter in field operations* Applying tech tools (including ML) to streamline quoting and scheduling* Lessons from going through Y Combinator* What “slope over Y-intercept” really means in early team building* Jeremy's San Diego taco go-to and what makes a taco technically superiorLinks & Resources* Cabana PoolsConnect with Jeremy* LinkedInConnect with Neal Bloom* LinkedIn: Neal Bloom* Twitter: @NealBloom This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, host Neal Bloom chats with Jeremy Yamaguchi, Founder and CEO of Cabana. A longtime builder in the home services space, Jeremy is now focused on modernizing the pool care industry, one of the largest yet most overlooked service sectors in the U.S. Jeremy shares how his product and marketing background led him to build Cabana with a blend of operational efficiency, software tooling, and local team empowerment. He dives into his strategy around vertical SaaS, customer experience, and the importance of trust and taste when scaling service-based businesses. Key Topics Covered Why the pool industry is primed for tech-enabled reinvention Cabana's approach to building a national brand through software and service How acquisitions, W-2 teams, and onboarding systems set Cabana apart Why founder psychology and team culture matter in field operations Applying tech tools (including ML) to streamline quoting and scheduling Lessons from going through Y Combinator What “slope over Y-intercept” really means in early team building Jeremy's San Diego taco go-to and what makes a taco technically superior Links & Resources Cabana Pools Connect with Jeremy LinkedIn Connect with Neal Bloom LinkedIn: Neal Bloom Twitter: @NealBloom

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms. Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News! I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners and the Tacos and Tech Podcast. My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter. Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community! June 27 Dr Squatch acq again, this time for $2B IPOs - Chime, Coreweave, eToro, Circle doing well and Wealthfront just filed. Quidel acquired LEX New Insulin results Fundings: Clearspeed series D Firestorm raised new funds, according to SEC filing Lilo of Carlsbad wins a Michelin Star Deloitte Fast 500 nominations open   Curated Events List – For full list – check The Social Coyote June 27 - Pitch Night at Bermuda Club July 1 - SD Tech Founders with Andy Ballester, GoFundMe and Eyepop AI co-founder July 4 - Founders Hike July 8 - Afternoon Founders HikeJuly 29 - Dev & Data x CTO Talks: Healthtech Night - link coming soon

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms.Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News!I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners and the Tacos and Tech Podcast.My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter.Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!June 27Dr Squatch acq again, this time for $2BIPOs - Chime, Coreweave, eToro, Circle doing well and Wealthfront just filed.Quidel acquired LEXNew Insulin resultsFundings:Clearspeed series DFirestorm raised new funds, according to SEC filingLilo of Carlsbad wins a Michelin StarDeloitte Fast 500 nominations openCurated Events List – For full list – check The Social CoyoteJune 27 - Pitch Night at Bermuda ClubJuly 1 - SD Tech Founders with Andy Ballester, GoFundMe and Eyepop AI co-founderJuly 4 - Founders HikeJuly 8 - Afternoon Founders HikeJuly 29 - Dev & Data x CTO Talks: Healthtech Night - link coming soon This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, host Neal Bloom chats with Andrew Albert, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Channel Equity Partners. Andrew brings decades of investing experience - from public markets to private software equity - to the table. He shares how his journey from the East Coast to San Diego led to launching a new kind of early growth equity firm focused on bootstrapped or lightly funded B2B SaaS companies. Andrew unpacks his investment strategy, discusses founder-alignment, thesis-driven sourcing, and how Channel Equity delivers capital with intention. Plus, he reflects on the power of long-term partnerships, why market cycles don't shake his thesis, and of course, his favorite San Diego burrito spot.   Key Topics Covered Channel Equity's unique approach to early growth equity How Andrew's public markets background shapes his private investing lens The “Ideal Founder Profile” and why alignment matters more than hype Examples of successful thesis-driven investments (e.g., CreatorIQ, restaurant CMS tools) The impact of AI on go-to-market efficiency and capital needs Fund I formation and raising capital in a challenging market Why IPOs aren't the goal, and how $100M exits can be life-changing Breakfast burritos, New York pizza, and San Diego sunshine   Links & Resources Channel Equity Partners   Connect with Andrew LinkedIn Connect with Neal Bloom LinkedIn: Neal Bloom Twitter: @NealBloom

In this episode of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, host Neal Bloom chats with Andrew Albert, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Channel Equity Partners. Andrew brings decades of investing experience - from public markets to private software equity - to the table. He shares how his journey from the East Coast to San Diego led to launching a new kind of early growth equity firm focused on bootstrapped or lightly funded B2B SaaS companies.Andrew unpacks his investment strategy, discusses founder-alignment, thesis-driven sourcing, and how Channel Equity delivers capital with intention. Plus, he reflects on the power of long-term partnerships, why market cycles don't shake his thesis, and of course, his favorite San Diego burrito spot.Key Topics Covered* Channel Equity's unique approach to early growth equity* How Andrew's public markets background shapes his private investing lens* The “Ideal Founder Profile” and why alignment matters more than hype* Examples of successful thesis-driven investments (e.g., CreatorIQ, restaurant CMS tools)* The impact of AI on go-to-market efficiency and capital needs* Fund I formation and raising capital in a challenging market* Why IPOs aren't the goal, and how $100M exits can be life-changing* Breakfast burritos, New York pizza, and San Diego sunshine Links & ResourcesChannel Equity PartnersConnect with AndrewLinkedInConnect with Neal BloomLinkedIn: Neal BloomTwitter: @NealBloom This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms.   Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News!    I'm Neal Bloom from Fresh Brewed Tech, the Tacos and Tech Podcast, and Interlock Capital. My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter.  Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!   June 20 Recent events debrief: MedTech, AI, GP/LP  BIO in Boston Startup activity in SD Recent Carta funding data in relation to San Diego and by stage Fundings Retrorate - podcast & Seaside Equity raises $723M for two funds   Cadre AI coming out of stealth Qualcomm acquisition of AlphaWave Semi for $2.4B   Curated Events List – For full list – check The Social Coyote July 1 - SD Tech Founders with Andy Ballester, GoFundMe and Eyepop AI co-founder July 4 - Founders Hike  July 8 - Afternoon Founders Hike July 29 - Dev & Data x CTO Talks: Healthtech Night  

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms.Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News!I'm Neal Bloom from Fresh Brewed Tech, the Tacos and Tech Podcast, and Interlock Capital.My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter.Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!June 20Recent events debrief: MedTech, AI, GP/LPBIO in BostonStartup activity in SDRecent Carta funding data in relation to San Diego and by stageFundings* Retrorate - podcast & * Seaside Equity raises $723M for two fundsCadre AI coming out of stealthQualcomm acquisition of AlphaWave Semi for $2.4BCurated Events List – For full list – check The Social CoyoteJuly 1 - SD Tech Founders with Andy Ballester, GoFundMe and Eyepop AI co-founderJuly 4 - Founders HikeJuly 8 - Afternoon Founders HikeJuly 29 - Dev & Data x CTO Talks: Healthtech Night This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

What does it take to design a flawless fan experience for 75,000 people on game day, and millions more watching from home? In this episode, Neal Bloom sits down with Vikrant Bodalia, Vice President of Technology Operations at Allegiant Stadium, to unpack the strategy, innovation, and pressure behind the world's biggest live events. From Super Bowl infrastructure to facial-recognition ticketing, Vikrant shares how he reverse engineers every event from the fan perspective first. With a career that spans NBA, NHL, NFL, and the rapid rise of Las Vegas as a sports tech capital, Vikrant offers a front-row look at how venue technology is evolving and why immersive, secure, and seamless experiences are now the industry benchmark. Key Topics Covered: • Vikrant's journey from IT help desk to VP of tech at world-class venues • Lessons from working behind the scenes in the NBA, NHL, and NFL • What it means to reverse engineer a Super Bowl or Stanley Cup experience • Why “infrastructure first” is the key to delivering at stadium scale • The evolution of venue tech: from 10GB to 100GB+ internet circuits • How ASM Global prepares for record-breaking digital demands • Cybersecurity as a culture, not just a checklist • The role of AI, facial recognition, and immersive media in the future of fan engagement • Las Vegas' emergence as a leading sports and entertainment tech city • How recognition from Top Tech Awards validates years of behind-the-scenes leadership Links & Resources: ASM Global Allegiant Stadium Las Vegas Top Tech Awards Connect with Vikrant: LinkedIn Connect with Neal: LinkedIn Twitter

What does it take to design a flawless fan experience for 75,000 people on game day, and millions more watching from home? In this episode, Neal Bloom sits down with Vikrant Bodalia, Vice President of Technology Operations at Allegiant Stadium, to unpack the strategy, innovation, and pressure behind the world's biggest live events. From Super Bowl infrastructure to facial-recognition ticketing, Vikrant shares how he reverse engineers every event from the fan perspective first.With a career that spans NBA, NHL, NFL, and the rapid rise of Las Vegas as a sports tech capital, Vikrant offers a front-row look at how venue technology is evolving and why immersive, secure, and seamless experiences are now the industry benchmark.Key Topics Covered:• Vikrant's journey from IT help desk to VP of tech at major league sports leagues and venues• Lessons from working behind the scenes in the NBA, NHL, and NFL• What it means to reverse engineer a Super Bowl or Stanley Cup experience• Why “infrastructure first” is the key to delivering at stadium scale• The evolution of venue tech: from 10GB to 100GB+ internet circuits• How ASM Global prepares for record-breaking digital demands• Cybersecurity as a culture, not just a checklist• The role of AI, facial recognition, and immersive media in the future of fan engagement• Las Vegas' emergence as a leading sports and entertainment tech city• How recognition from Top Tech Awards validates years of behind-the-scenes leadershipLinks & Resources:* ASM Global* Allegiant Stadium* Las Vegas Top Tech AwardsConnect with Vikrant:* LinkedInConnect with Neal:* LinkedIn* Twitter This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms.Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News!I'm Neal Bloom from Fresh Brewed Tech, the Tacos and Tech Podcast, and Rising Tide Partners.My co-hosts in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter.June 6 Tech NewsWe recorded this week's pod live on LinkedIn here. What did you think?General Atomics Fusion Reactor TourFunding Roundup – Q2 So Far* Flock Freight raised $60M Series E* RevenueCat raised $50M Series B (co-founder based in SD)* BioLink: $100M Series C* Hyatt Therapeutics: $65M Series A* ClearPoint Neuro: $110M public offeringExecutive Moves* Mark Fields named Chief Information & Innovation Officer at IlluminaAI Spotlight* Personal AI partners with NVIDIA and launches an AI receptionist tool* Headquarters moving to SF, but SD office remains* Still a top contender in SD's AI ecosystem* Qualcomm & NVDIA making big AI movesMicrosoft x Activision Blizzard* Global deal, local impact: High Moon Studios (Carlsbad) now under Microsoft* Gaming community expanding: new meetups + co-working hub in the worksConsumer Brand News* Jack in the Box (HQ in SD) struggles with Del Taco; 200 stores closed* Everbowl hits 100th location milestone* Rapid growth since franchising* Built-in construction arm WeBuild fueling national expansionRobotics on the Big Stage* Local startup Psyonic featured by YouTuber Marques Brownlee (MKBHD)* Two million+ views on their bionic hand demo* Another big win for SD's hardware + health tech communityEvents Roundup – June HighlightsFor full list, check out The Social Coyote newsletter* June 6 - SD Founder Hike* June 9 - Future In Review 2025 Conference* June 10 - Carlsbad Sports Active Lifestyle Industry Exchange with Naturally San Diego and SDSI* June 11 - SD Founders Afternoon Hike* June 12 - Best Ideas Dinner This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms. Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News! I'm Neal Bloom from Fresh Brewed Tech, the Tacos and Tech Podcast, and Rising Tide Partners. My co-hosts in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter. June 6 Tech News We recorded this week's pod live on LinkedIn here. What did you think? General Atomics Fusion Reactor Tour Funding Roundup – Q2 So Far Flock Freight raised $60M Series E RevenueCat raised $50M Series B (co-founder based in SD) BioLink: $100M Series C Hyatt Therapeutics: $65M Series A ClearPoint Neuro: $110M public offering Executive Moves Mark Fields named Chief Information & Innovation Officer at Illumina AI Spotlight Personal AI partners with NVIDIA and launches an AI receptionist tool Headquarters moving to SF, but SD office remains Still a top contender in SD's AI ecosystem Qualcomm & NVDIA making big AI moves Microsoft x Activision Blizzard Global deal, local impact: High Moon Studios (Carlsbad) now under Microsoft Gaming community expanding: new meetups + co-working hub in the works Consumer Brand News Jack in the Box (HQ in SD) struggles with Del Taco; 200 stores closed Everbowl hits 100th location milestone Rapid growth since franchising Built-in construction arm WeBuild fueling national expansion Robotics on the Big Stage Local startup Psyonic featured by YouTuber Marques Brownlee (MKBHD) Two million+ views on their bionic hand demo Another big win for SD's hardware + health tech community Events Roundup – June Highlights For full list, check out The Social Coyote newsletter June 6 - SD Founder Hike June 9 - Future In Review 2025 Conference June 10 - Carlsbad Sports Active Lifestyle Industry Exchange with Naturally San Diego and SDSI June 11 - SD Founders Afternoon Hike June 12 - Best Ideas Dinner