Podcasts about startup culture

Tommy Cotter is Director of Data Products at Benzinga, a financial media company building the data infrastructure that sits behind trading platforms and investment apps used by millions of people daily. He's been navigating the shift to AI-assisted workflows in a space where speed and accuracy aren't just nice to have - getting it wrong has real consequences.In this episode, Peter and Dave talk with Tommy about what it actually looks like to build data products responsibly in a fast-moving AI environment. They get into where humans still need to be in the loop, how compliance has become a competitive signal, and why being nimble matters more than picking the perfect architecture from day one.Three things to take away from this conversation:Self-agency is real now. If you have a strong conviction about a product or problem, the barrier to building something has never been lower. That's a genuine shift from even five years ago.Security and compliance are no longer just internal concerns. In a world where AI startups spin up overnight, having invested in SOC2 or GDPR signals to customers that you're a legitimate, trustworthy operation. It's a market differentiator.Humans still belong in the system. Not everywhere, but in the right places. For low-risk, deterministic processes, let AI run. For anything client-facing or accuracy-critical, keep a human in the loop. Knowing the difference is the skill.If this conversation sparked something for you, send us your thoughts at feedback@definitelymaybeagile.com. And if you haven't already, hit subscribe so you don't miss the next one.

Duncan Johnson, CEO and co-founder of Northern Gritstone, joins VC10X to break down why the UK produces world-class science but struggles to turn it into globally significant companies. We dig into the £24 million vs. £980 million funding gap between the north of England and the Golden Triangle, why a US investor on your cap table can mean a 2x outperformance potential, and how Northern Gritstone's permanent capital structure lets it match the 15-year reality of deep-tech venture instead of forcing exits on a 10-year fund clock.Duncan also shares what UK institutional investors still get wrong about venture risk and portfolio construction, why concentrating capital in a handful of innovation clusters beats spreading it thin, where he believes the UK has a genuine right to win in applied and agentic AI, and the three qualities — ambition, aptitude, and attitude — that separate university spin-outs that become real businesses from the ones that stay great science projects.⭐ Sponsored by Podcast10x - Podcasting agency for VCs - https://podcast10x.comTimestamps:(00:00) - The Impact of US Investors on UK Startups (00:19) - Why the UK Fails to Create Tech Giants (00:29) - The UK's Commercial Talent Gap (00:50) - Why Talent is More Crucial Than Science (01:13) - Introduction to Duncan Johnson and Northern Gritstone (02:58) - The Problem Northern Gritstone Solves (03:08) - The North-South UK Funding Disparity (04:15) - Where the UK's Innovation Value Chain Breaks (05:59) - The Trend of UK Startups Seeking US Capital (06:14) - Data-Backed Benefits of Entering the US Ecosystem (08:05) - Defining the UK's Talent Shortage (08:27) - The Scarcity of Venture-Scale Experience (09:25) - Investor Perceptions of the UK's Future (09:41) - How Political Instability Affects UK Investment (11:28) - Northern Gritstone's Permanent Capital Model (11:48) - Pros and Cons of a Permanent Capital Structure (14:37) - Managing Shareholder Liquidity in a Permanent Capital Fund (14:58) - Strategies for Providing Investor Liquidity (17:17) - How New vs. Early Investors are Treated (20:00) - The Current Climate for Raising Venture Capital (22:11) - What Institutional Investors Misunderstand About Venture Capital (22:26) - The Key Misconceptions: Duration, Risk, and Portfolio Size (24:00) - The Case for Concentrated Innovation Clusters (26:07) - Spotlight on Northern Gritstone's Portfolio Companies (26:18) - The Story of Auxetic: A Breakthrough Material (28:40) - How Adsilico Uses AI for Medical Device Testing (30:13) - Uncomfortable Lessons from San Francisco (30:27) - What the UK Can Learn from Silicon Valley's Startup Culture (33:15) - Where the UK Has a Right to Win in AI (35:04) - How to Invest £10 Billion in the UK's AI Future (36:26) - From Science Project to Global Company (36:37) - The Three A's of Successful Founders: Ambition, Aptitude, and Attitude (37:42) - The 15-Year Vision for UK Tech (37:55) - Defining Success: A Trillion-Pound UK Tech Company (39:32) - A Common Misconception About UK Innovation (39:45) - Why Innovation is a Long-Term Game, Not a Quick Fix (40:56) - Where to Follow Duncan Johnson and Northern GritstoneLinks:Northern Gritstone: https://northerngritstone.comLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/northern-gritstoneConnect with Prashant: https://linkedin.com/in/choubeysahabSubscribe to VC10X newsletter - ⁠https://vc10x.beehiiv.com⁠Subscribe on YouTube - ⁠https://youtube.com/@VC10X ⁠Subscribe on Apple Podcasts - ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/vc10x-investing-venture-capital-asset-management-private/id1632806986⁠Subscribe on Spotify - ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/7F7KEhXNhTx1bKTBFgzv3k?si=WgQ4ozMiQJ-6nowj6wBgqQ⁠VC10X website - ⁠https://vc10x.com#VentureCapital #UKInnovation #DeepTech #UniversitySpinouts #PermanentCapital

In this episode of Strap On Your Boots, I reflect on how startup culture shaped my view of entrepreneurship and why I recently found myself questioning one of my own assumptions. After learning about entrepreneurs who buy existing businesses instead of building companies from scratch, I began wondering whether we've become too attached to a single version of what entrepreneurship is supposed to look like. I share lessons from my own journey building startups and explore why sustainability, execution, and long-term value creation may deserve just as much attention as innovation and growth.

Jeff Dudan's free digital copy of his book What does it actually take to build a culture that scales - one that doesn't collapse the moment you add a new layer of management or hire your 25th employee? In this episode, Jeff Dudan sits down with Chris Dyer, bestselling author and CEO culture expert, to unpack the seven pillars of high-performance culture that work for startups and Fortune 100 companies alike. Chris shares why most founders accidentally destroy their culture by day 50, why your meetings are a direct mirror of your company's values, how to use a "cockroach meeting" to solve problems in 15 minutes or less, and the counterintuitive hiring rule he used to drive real innovation inside a 4,500-person organization. They also dig into the critical difference between mistakes and errors, why public recognition can backfire on introverts, and how the Gallup StrengthsFinder data revealed that his company was hiring the same person over and over - killing innovation from the inside out. Whether you're building your first team or scaling a franchise, this conversation gives you the frameworks, language, and tools to build a culture that attracts the right people, retains them, and makes them extraordinary. Topics covered: company culture, startup culture, employee recognition, meeting frameworks, hiring strategy, innovation, psychological safety, franchise ownership, leadership development, StrengthsFinder, remote teams, cultural uniqueness, tribal language, mistakes vs errors.  Guest: Chris Dyer  Guest YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChrisDyer  Guest Website: https://chrisdyer.com/  Guest Socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisdyer7/    #CompanyCulture #LeadershipDevelopment #StartupGrowth #EmployeeEngagement #FranchiseBusiness #TeamBuilding #HiringStrategy #CultureCode #RemoteWork #BusinessLeadership #ChrisDyer #JeffDudan #WorkplaceCulture Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jeff Dudan's free digital copy of his book What does it actually take to build a culture that scales - one that doesn't collapse the moment you add a new layer of management or hire your 25th employee? In this episode, Jeff Dudan sits down with Chris Dyer, bestselling author and CEO culture expert, to unpack the seven pillars of high-performance culture that work for startups and Fortune 100 companies alike. Chris shares why most founders accidentally destroy their culture by day 50, why your meetings are a direct mirror of your company's values, how to use a "cockroach meeting" to solve problems in 15 minutes or less, and the counterintuitive hiring rule he used to drive real innovation inside a 4,500-person organization. They also dig into the critical difference between mistakes and errors, why public recognition can backfire on introverts, and how the Gallup StrengthsFinder data revealed that his company was hiring the same person over and over - killing innovation from the inside out. Whether you're building your first team or scaling a franchise, this conversation gives you the frameworks, language, and tools to build a culture that attracts the right people, retains them, and makes them extraordinary. Topics covered: company culture, startup culture, employee recognition, meeting frameworks, hiring strategy, innovation, psychological safety, franchise ownership, leadership development, StrengthsFinder, remote teams, cultural uniqueness, tribal language, mistakes vs errors.  Guest: Chris Dyer  Guest YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChrisDyer  Guest Website: https://chrisdyer.com/  Guest Socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisdyer7/    #CompanyCulture #LeadershipDevelopment #StartupGrowth #EmployeeEngagement #FranchiseBusiness #TeamBuilding #HiringStrategy #CultureCode #RemoteWork #BusinessLeadership #ChrisDyer #JeffDudan #WorkplaceCulture Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

There is a lot to say about joining a startup, and I'm saying that as somebody who has been a part of four of them. Nothing prepares you for the first time, because you truly have no idea what you're walking into! Not even the offer letter or the job description paints the full picture, so Christine Song, founder of the 5 to 9 Society and former CPO at Knix, is here to give you her expertise. We're talking about walking into a company with no HR infrastructure, a CEO whose behavior made her want to run back to corporate, working 100 hours a week until her hair (literally) started falling out, and somehow still coming out the other side with more love for startups than ever.  00:00:00 - Intro 00:02:01 - Something Christine Believed About Work That She Had to Unlearn 00:08:26 - What Stepping Into a Startup Role Felt like Vs The Expectation of It 00:21:01 - The Important Role of HR in Startups 00:35:18 - Picking Up on Signs of Burnout 00:40:40 - Startup Culture and Its Demands 00:49:10 - Creating a Life and Identity Outside of Work 00:55:11 - Christine's Advice For Someone New to The Startup World --- The Predictive Index behavioral assessment reveals how people work, think, and thrive—so teams can understand each other better and perform at their best. Because when you truly understand your people, work just works. Learn more: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠trypi.com/ihateithere⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- If you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba's newsletter! It's for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. ⁠⁠https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/⁠⁠ And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out⁠⁠ https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here⁠⁠ for even more exclusive insider content! --- Follow Christine LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/songchristine1/ Follow Hebba YouTube:⁠⁠ https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos⁠⁠ LinkedIn:⁠⁠ https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef⁠⁠ Twitter:⁠⁠ https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef⁠⁠

Keywords: nearshoring, Latin America, remote teams, Argentina, entrepreneurship, remote work, staffing, tech recruiting, fintech, outsourcing, offshoring, business operations, startup culture, remote leadership, recruiting, engineering talent, Hawaii lifestyle, cross-border business, tech startups, business scaling Summary: In this episode, Brian Samson shares his journey from working in corporate America and startups to building a successful nearshoring business focused on Latin American talent while living in Hawaii. He discusses how nearshoring differs from traditional offshoring and why countries like Argentina provide strategic advantages for US-based companies seeking skilled engineers and remote professionals. Brian explains the importance of aligned time zones, cultural compatibility, and trust when building high-performing remote teams across borders. Throughout the conversation, Brian dives into the operational side of running a staffing and recruiting business, including scaling remote teams, hiring local recruiters, and creating autonomous work cultures. He also shares insights into entrepreneurship, bootstrapping versus raising capital, and the lessons learned from living and working internationally. The discussion highlights how remote-first business models, minimal overhead, and strong communication practices are reshaping the future of global work and staffing. Takeaways Nearshoring offers major advantages over traditional offshoring for US companies. Latin American talent provides strong technical skills and cultural alignment. Argentina has become a strategic hub for engineering and recruiting talent. Time zone compatibility improves collaboration and productivity. Startup culture helped shape Brian's entrepreneurial mindset. Building trust is essential when managing remote international teams. Remote teams thrive when employees are empowered and autonomous. Hiring local recruiters improves candidate quality and vetting processes. Entrepreneurship often requires balancing lifestyle and business goals. Hawaii's lifestyle influenced Brian's remote-first business model. Bootstrapping can create more operational flexibility than raising capital. Nearshoring reduces many communication challenges associated with offshoring. Cultural understanding is key when expanding internationally. Remote leadership depends heavily on communication and accountability. Latin American professionals often demonstrate resilience and entrepreneurial thinking. Minimal overhead allows remote staffing businesses to scale efficiently. Productive remote work requires trust rather than micromanagement. Recruiting high-level tech talent can generate strong long-term revenue opportunities. Cross-border businesses require adaptability and operational problem-solving. The future of remote staffing will continue growing in Latin America. Titles Building Remote Teams in Latin America with Brian Samson Why Nearshoring Is Changing Global Business From Hawaii to Argentina: Brian Samson's Entrepreneurial Journey Scaling Remote Teams Through Nearshoring The Future of Latin American Talent and Remote Work Sound bites “Nearshoring changes everything.” “Trust creates productive remote teams.” “Time zones matter more than people think.” “You need autonomous problem solvers.” “Argentina has incredible engineering talent.” Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 00:55 Brian Samson's Background and Move to Hawaii 02:25 Entrepreneurship and Business Opportunities in Hawaii 03:36 Transitioning from Corporate Roles to Entrepreneurship 05:01 Startup Culture and Entrepreneurial Lessons 06:14 Building a Fintech Services Business in San Francisco 07:43 Bootstrapping Versus Raising Capital 08:31 Discovering Nearshoring and Argentina's Advantages 10:22 Moving to Buenos Aires and Building a Team 12:16 Engineering Talent and Time Zone Benefits in Latin America 14:14 Nearshoring Versus Traditional Offshoring 15:04 Strategic Arbitrage and Competitive Compensation 16:23 Scaling a Multi-Team Staffing Business 17:38 Hiring Local Recruiters and Vetting Talent 18:11 Institutional Trust and Latin American Markets 19:15 Managing Remote Teams Across Borders 21:37 How Hawaii Influenced the Business Model 22:22 Transitioning Fully Into Entrepreneurship 24:34 The Pandemic's Impact on Remote Staffing 25:10 Cost-Effective Remote Team Management 26:13 Revenue Models in Tech Recruiting 27:21 High-Value Placements and Scaling Recruiting Revenue 28:56 The Future of Latin American Nearshoring 30:18 Offshoring Versus Nearshoring Explained 31:37 Why Time Zones Matter in Remote Collaboration 33:14 Challenges of High-Tech Remote Work 34:49 Building Autonomous and Empowered Teams 37:27 Resilience and Entrepreneurial Spirit in Latin America 38:07 Communication, Culture, and Work Ethic 39:49 Trust and Autonomy in Remote Team Success 42:14 Creating Independent Work Cultures 44:23 Personal Stories About Remote Leadership 46:35 Expanding Into Service Businesses and Startups 48:14 Continued Success in Staffing and Entrepreneurship 49:49 Connecting with Brian Samson and Plug.Tech

Take the 2026 AI Engineering Survey and get >$2k in credits and AIE WF tickets!On the product side, everyone is getting Computer - Perplexity, Manus, Cursor, and so on. Meanwhile on the research side, agentic evals like TerminalBench and GDPVal are also assuming computer (Harbor). On both ends, the consolidating LLM OS stack has become a standard toolkit, and Daytona is one of a small set of AI Infra companies that are booming because of it.“The end of localhost” has been Ivan Burazin's obsession for more than a decade.Something that is all too familiar…Long before agents became the default way people talked about software development, Ivan was already chasing the idea that development should not depend on a fragile local machine. CodeAnywhere, one of the first browser-based IDEs, was an early attempt at that future: move the development environment into the cloud, make setup reproducible, and free developers from the endless “works on my machine” tax.The thesis was directionally right, but the market wasn't ready yet.However, agents changed that. They do not care about a laptop, desk setup, or favorite editor. They need a computer they can access through an API: something stateful enough to keep working, fast enough to spin up instantly, flexible enough to resize, isolated enough to be safe, and composable enough to run the messy real-world workflows that real software engineering actually requires.Daytona isn't just selling “sandboxes” in the narrow code-execution sense. It is the latest version of Ivan's original localhost thesis.In this episode, Daytona's CEO joins swyx to explain why AI agents need more than code execution boxes: they need composable computers, stateful sandboxes, instant startup, dynamic resources, and infrastructure that can survive workloads going from zero to 100,000 CPUs.We go deep on the new agent compute market: Daytona's hard pivot from human dev environments to AI sandboxes, the New Year's Eve MVP that customers begged for, why Daytona runs on bare metal with its own scheduler, how one customer runs almost 850,000 sandboxes a day, and why RL/eval workloads went from 0% to roughly 50% of usage in just months. Ivan also explains why agents need Windows and macOS machines, why CLI may matter more than MCP, why Kubernetes is painful for this workload, and why the future AI cloud may look more like Stripe than AWS.We discuss:* How Daytona grew out of CodeAnywhere, Shift, and the “end of localhost” thesis* Why Daytona pivoted from human dev environments to AI sandboxes* Why agents need composable computers instead of disposable code execution boxes* The New Year's Eve MVP that customers chased API keys for* Why Daytona chose bare metal, stateful snapshots, and its own scheduler* How Daytona spins up one sandbox in ~60ms and 50,000 sandboxes in ~75 seconds* Why Daytona's biggest customer runs ~850,000 sandboxes a day* How RL/eval workloads create zero-to-100,000 CPU spikes* Why RL workloads went from 0% to roughly 50% of Daytona usage* Why customers compare Daytona against EKS/GKS and say they're “never going back”* Why every AI agent may need a computer, including Windows and macOS environments* The Apple licensing constraints that make macOS sandboxes hard* Why CLI gives agents more power than MCP* How open source helps agents integrate Daytona* Why agent-generated PRs may break today's CI/CD assumptions* Why AI SaaS companies reselling tokens may face a cold shower* Why the AI cloud may look more like Stripe than AWSIvan Burazin* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivanburazin* X: https://x.com/ivanburazinDaytona* Website: https://www.daytona.io* X: https://x.com/daytonaioTimestamps* 00:00:00 Hook* 00:01:12 Introduction* 00:03:15 CodeAnywhere, Shift, and the end of localhost* 00:05:58 What Daytona is: composable computers for AI agents* 00:08:07 The pivot from dev environments to AI sandboxes* 00:10:17 The New Year's Eve MVP and customers begging for API keys* 00:12:56 Bare metal, stateful sandboxes, and Daytona's scheduler* 00:17:28 60ms startup, 50,000 sandboxes, and 850K daily runs* 00:21:53 Spiky RL/eval workloads and the new agent infra problem* 00:28:12 RL workloads, Kubernetes pain, and dynamic resizing* 00:33:31 Why every AI agent needs a computer* 00:38:48 macOS sandboxes and Apple's licensing problem* 00:44:28 Why CLI may matter more than MCP* 00:48:11 Open source, GitHub stars, and agent integration* 00:53:11 Git, CI/CD, and agent collaboration bottlenecks* 00:58:15 Founder life and building a 25-person infra company* 01:02:44 AI SaaS, token resale, and API-first business models* 01:06:10 GPU sandboxes, data centers, and compute growth* 01:09:48 Why the AI cloud may look more like Stripe than AWS* 01:11:26 Closing thoughtsTranscriptIntroduction: Daytona, CodeAnywhere, and the End of LocalhostSwyx [00:00:02]: Okay, we're in the studio with Ivan Burazin, CEO of Daytona. Welcome.Ivan [00:00:07]: Thanks for having me, man.Swyx [00:00:08]: Ivan, you and I go back.Ivan [00:00:10]: Way back.Swyx [00:00:11]: How I don't even know how, you found, did you reach out or, for Shift.Ivan [00:00:17]: I reached out to you. The reason was you - we were just - we were thinking about I was one of the co-founders of CodeAnywhere, the first browser-based IDE, and so we were thinking a long time of, localhost should die. And you had this article.Swyx [00:00:29]: End of localhost.Ivan [00:00:30]: Then I reached out to you because of that, and then we talked, and I was actually at a different job and learning about I was the head of, developer experience, and you were quite well-versed in that, and I actually reached out to you, among other people, how do we go about that? What are the key things and whatnot at this point in time? And you were nice enough to take the call, and I remember I was late on your call with you.Swyx [00:00:51]: I don't remember.Ivan [00:00:52]: I remember because I was with my then I'm thinking of a girlfriend or wife at that point in time, I'm not sure. It's the same person, so that's great, and I was late ‘cause we were, in, Italy on, vacation, and then I was late for something. I felt so bad, and you were so nice to be, good about.Swyx [00:01:10]: The reason I'm nice is because I'm also late to other people, so it's like, who's, who's without sin here, yeah, so I have to, for those who don't know, InfoBip Shift, there's this whole thing that, you did in the past, and, and that was basically one of the inspirations for me starting AI Engineer, which is like, I have to thank you for giving me that push to be like, “Oh, you can, you can build and sell conferences?”Ivan [00:01:34]: I remember you asked you asked me at the beginning to give me advisory shares, and I was so focused on what we were doing, I said no, and I should've took the advisory shares. So I'm sorry, dude. But anyway.Swyx [00:01:43]: We're not, we're not venture backed.Ivan [00:01:44]: No, it doesn't matter.Swyx [00:01:45]: It's Yeah, anyway, so I think what's impressive about you is that CodeAnywhere is the thing that you've been trying to build, and, you kind of put it on hold and then came back after InfoBip. Just give us the story, do you - the story and the origin story, going into Daytona.From CodeAnywhere and Shift to DaytonaIvan [00:02:05]: Sure. Like, really way back, me and my co-founder have been together. I say this, I've said this multiple times, it's like we were married and divorced and married. Some people actually ask me is my co-founder my partner. they thought it literally. It's not literally, but we have done multiple companies together, and to your point, we had this shift where we went from the CodeAnywhere to the conference called Shift, and then back to, Daytona. We originally started stacking servers, doing like virtualization in the early 2000s and, routers and doing basically all these things, at a foundational level, and that was a services company which we sold to focus on what my co-founder actually invented, which was the very first browser-based IDE, right, I say the first. Before us was actually Heroku. They did it for a very short time until they became Heroku. But outside of them, we were the only one, and it was called.Swyx [00:02:55]: There was Cloud9.Ivan [00:02:57]: Cloud9 came out slightly after us. There was Replit, which came out when we stopped doing it, Replit came out, and they have been successful since then, which is great. There was Nitrous.io. There was quite a few that existed at the time, but it was like too early. But the interesting part is that we, at that point in time, because there was no VS Code, there was no Kubernetes, and Docker had just started when we Or I'm not sure if it was even public at that point in time. And so we had to build everything to the whole stack ourselves and that was the key learning that we brought into and that we've been using in Daytona today. So it was super early. There's about 3 million people used CodeAnywhere. It was slightly, it was angel-backed more than venture-backed. We ended up paying everyone back because it didn't have that sort of scale. But, three years ago, we started something similar with Daytona, which is not what we are today, but it was automating dev environments for human engineers, the basically the underlying stack of CodeAnywhere. And then we did a hard pivot last January to sandboxes. And so here we are.Swyx [00:04:01]: Historic pivot, yeah, and, it's one of those things where, I had independently invested in CodeAnywhere, but also in E2B, and then both of you pivoted into the same thing, and I'm like, “F**k.”Ivan [00:04:12]: You invested, you invested in Daytona. You invested in Daytona. But you were the first If we had not got your check, we wouldn't have done it.Swyx [00:04:18]: No way.Ivan [00:04:19]: No, it was like, “We have to get him on board first,” and you were that kicker that we, that got us off the ground.Swyx [00:04:23]: No, because you were putting me on your pitch deck, man. I was like, “Man, this is like a good trip if I don't invest.”Ivan [00:04:29]: That's because it was your quote. It's like we.Swyx [00:04:30]: Yeah. It's the end of localhost.Ivan [00:04:31]: Did a bunch of research about end of localhost and who was interested in that,.Swyx [00:04:34]: No, that's like, I put, I wrote that blog post, and every single company in that field reached out to me, and then every VC who was receiving those pitches then also had to call me and, talk it, talk through it with me.Ivan [00:04:47]: It's finally happening though.Swyx [00:04:48]: It was really super interesting.Ivan [00:04:48]: It's finally happening.Swyx [00:04:49]: It's finally happening.Ivan [00:04:49]: Yeah, it's finally.Swyx [00:04:49]: It's finally happening, with maybe sort of non-human users. Yeah, so what is Daytona today? Let's get like a quick description. I'm wearing the shirt.What Daytona Is Today: Composable Computers for AI AgentsIvan [00:04:58]: You're wearing the shirt. Yes,.Swyx [00:04:59]: It says, I think your branding is very good. Like, it's very consistent. It runs AI code. Like, it cannot be simpler.Ivan [00:05:05]: Exactly, but we're gonna probably have to change that.Swyx [00:05:07]: Oh, s**t.Ivan [00:05:07]: It's also a subset of what we do. Unfortunately, we really love this, Run AI Code is super simple. People interpret it different ways. I think we've given out 5,000, 6,000 of these shirts. People wear them with pride because it doesn't really market about us.Swyx [00:05:21]: Yeah, Daytona's on the back.Ivan [00:05:22]: It markets the back. It markets to the person itself, so I think we did a really good job on that one. But it is also a subset of what we do, because people, when they think about Run AI Code, they just think about these small, let's call it isolates, code execution boxes that, you send some code, you get an output. Whereas what Daytona is today is essentially composable computers for AI agents. It is, the market calls them sandboxes which can be misleading.Swyx [00:05:44]: All these things. All these things on.Ivan [00:05:45]: Yeah, exactly, ‘cause it can be misleading ‘cause people usually think about sandboxes as a demo or a test environment versus a production-grade environment. But what Daytona does, if you think of the laptop that you have in front of you or the computer that's over there, or, my wife is an architect, so she has like a Windows with a 3D graphics card inside to do 3D rendering. Like, as humans, we have different computers or different compositions of computers. And our belief is strongly that agents today and going forward will need all these different compositions of computers to do different types of tasks. And so we offer that basically through an API.Swyx [00:06:19]: Yeah, to give people - I'm trying to sort of front-load all the aha moments or the wow moments so that people can, stay engaged and click like and subscribe. the market is exploding, right? Like, you have been reporting 74% month-on-month growth, and it also, it's just been growing for a while. Like, it's been going like this. And every single - It's not just you guys. It's every single.Ivan [00:06:41]: Everyone, yeah.Swyx [00:06:42]: Sort of, compute provider. I don't know if you agree with me saying compute provider or not.Ivan [00:06:48]: It's fine.Swyx [00:06:48]: Yeah. So like organically PLG-driven growth, but also enterprise is doing super well, I think I wanna rewind to January of last year when you did the pivot. Like, so you obviously called this market early, and you were positioned for it, and you are now one of the market leaders. But what was the insight that made you do the pivot?The Pivot: From Human Dev Environments to Agent SandboxesIvan [00:07:06]: The insight that made us do this pivot is the quarter before that, so end of 2024, when we had - Basically, we did a demo with - I don't I think we discussed this as well, Devin was not public. You actually gave me access to Devin at that time. So Devin.Swyx [00:07:25]: I did?Ivan [00:07:26]: Yeah, you gave me access.Swyx [00:07:26]: I don't think I was supposed.Ivan [00:07:27]: Yeah, exactly.Swyx [00:07:28]: Yeah, I.Ivan [00:07:28]: So it doesn't matter. You.Swyx [00:07:29]: Yeah. I gave like three friends access.Ivan [00:07:31]: Yeah, or it was a call and you showed it to me. It doesn't matter. but OpenDevin was available, which is now called OpenHands. And so we're like, “Oh, this seems to be a thing. This is not public. Let's take our for human automation of dev environments and take, OpenDevin and launch that as a SaaS.” And we did that. Not very many people signed up and used it, but a lot of people reached out that were building agents, and they were like, “Hey, my agent needs a compute sandbox runtime,” whatever you wanna call it. I forgot what it was called at that point. And then we were like, “Oh, amazing. This is a new market. Here is our infrastructure. Here's our product, and go.” And what we found really fast, soon, was that people did not like what we had built. It didn't work. And I remember talking to people at the beginning when we're doing this, the sandbox we're building for agents. People were like, “Oh, why is it different? It's the same thing. We have like EC2, we have VMs, we have all these things.” But we saw that everyone we gave it to, it was like 20, 30 people, they all said, “No.” Like, “This is not what we need. This sort of breaks.” And basically, me and my co-founder not knowing a lot about - ‘cause we're infra people. We're not AI people. So I basically took it upon myself to like watch every single podcast that exists, including all of, all of these and all that, and sort of get up to date, read all the blogs, like get, understand what's going on.Swyx [00:08:45]: Do you wanna shout out who else was useful, just in case people are also looking.Ivan [00:08:49]: Generally we -, I looked at There's a few of podcast, different segments and different types. So there's you guys, No Priors, Bill Gurley's was great while.Swyx [00:09:04]: VG2, yeah.Ivan [00:09:05]: Yeah, while it was around. So there's a few. 20VC is interesting from a different dynamic, and some are different dynamic. But there was, also Red Points.Swyx [00:09:14]: We're not really about the compute market.Ivan [00:09:15]: It was also already - Sorry?Swyx [00:09:16]: You're, you want - You're looking at the agent infra market.Ivan [00:09:19]: I was looking at the agent market and the AI market in general and sort of understanding who are the players, what the perception, and how that goes. And like obviously you complement this with like going to conferences, going to events, going to meetups, reading white papers, like doing all the things that you have to do to understand what's happening. And so when we figured, when we sort of had an idea of what we had to build, literally over the New Year's Eve, literally on New Year's Eve, I half vibe coded the first MVP, first minimal viable product of what Daytona is today. And I went to sleep at like 3:00 AM or something like that. I was doing - I just put my like baby daughter and wife to sleep and, Happy New Year's, and go back to just, doing this. And I sent it to my co-founder, my CTO, and he saw it in the morning. He's like, “This is absolute garbage.” “Do not show this to anybody at all, but the idea is good.” And so he took two weeks, and he rebuilt it.Swyx [00:10:09]: Did it like look like that? Listen, I - It was rough idea.Ivan [00:10:12]: Oh, not even, not even close. Like it was it was way worse. But it was like a very - It was a simplistic view of what it should be. Like, it worked, but it was not ideal. And so he went, we went down the whole, which is his job as CTO, to go, and he came back with this version. We then called all the people that had said like, “This is garbage,” a quarter ago. And we set up these calls, and we gave it to - We just demoed it to everyone. And all the calls went long, every single one. They were 15-minute calls, and they all went to like 25, 30 minutes or whatnot. And everyone said, “We need, we want access.” There was no login, just an API key, ‘cause it was just a beta or an alpha. And they said, “Oh, we want access.” And we're like, “Sure, yeah. Okay, thank you very much.” But after like the next day, if we'd not send it, every single one, like every call that we did, everyone came back, “Where is my API key?” Like everyone wanted it. We're like, “S**t.” Like this is it. Like I've never felt So one, the understanding to your point was like most people thought it was the same infrastructure for humans and agents. We understood a quarter ago it's not. We just didn't know what was the right primitive. And then when we came, and we can talk about what that is, and we gave it to these people, I've never seen, I've never experienced - I've done multiple companies in my life. I've never experienced this, that people literally call you if you do not give them access. Like they want access right now. And so it's like, okay, they don't want this. the thing that they want doesn't seem to exist, or they have not found it, and they really want what we want. And then when we understood that we're onto something, and then when you think about the size of the market, like the market for human engineers and enterprise is a very large market, so think GitLab or whatnot. But the market for every single agent that will exist ever in the future is just like, what is that market? How big is that? And we're like, “We are all in on this.” And so that is where we made sort of the cut between the old product and the new one.Bare Metal, Stateful Sandboxes, and the Lambda + EC2 ModelSwyx [00:12:02]: Yeah. But it wasn't composable at the time?Ivan [00:12:05]: It was very - It was basically just a Linux box that you could change, that you could define number of CPUs, disk, and RAM. Like that is what you could do, but you couldn't have multiple operating systems, you couldn't resize it on the fly, you couldn't add a GPU, you couldn't do like all the things. It was just the, just the first sort of variation of that, yeah.Swyx [00:12:22]: Was it bare metal from the start?Ivan [00:12:24]: It was bare metal from the start. And so the interesting thing that we thought about right away, so our.Swyx [00:12:29]: Which, give people the background, what is the normal path?Ivan [00:12:32]: Yeah, so, basically most providers run this on top of VMs. And also.Swyx [00:12:37]: Firecracker.Ivan [00:12:38]: Yeah, they run on Firecracker and VM. And so we also fire - We can get - We have multiple isolation layers and we can do that. But the common way to do it is that they, one, that the state of the machine, or the hard disk is not part of the sandbox itself. And the other thing is they're not meant to last forever. So most of them are preemptible, like they can There's a time that they can live. And so our thought was when we were going into this is, agents will be like humans in the sense of you don't want your laptop to be shut down until you're done with work. Like, and you want to close the lid and open the lid, it's the same state. So you - Agents would want that, like the pause and come back. They want those two things. But also agents really want speed, right? Can they get it? So when we thought about it's like we need something insanely fast, how to make it fast, how to make it long-running, and stateful. And so those two things, it's like combining a Lambda and an EC2, right? Those two things together. And so we didn't have an idea how others did it, ‘cause we didn't know too that there was a market around this. It was more like, okay, this is what we need, what they need. And we looked at Kubernetes, it wasn't wasn't good enough for that. We looked at Nomad, it didn't enable that. And so our history in rewriting our own scheduler at CodeAnywhere is basically what my CTO came up with. Like, he's like, “Oh, the learnings from there,” and he brought it. And the funny thing is, our third co-founder, when he saw it, he's like, “Dude, what is this? This is like 2008.” Like, we went back in time, and he's like, “Exactly.” And so the reason why Daytona is like super fast, and you see this on benchmarks, is we essentially, we run on bare metal. We have our own scheduler, we use the underlying, disk, CPU, and RAM of the underlying machine, which means your IOPS are insanely fast because there's no, there's no network between an EBS or something like that. But also the snapshot, the point in time, the templates, are also preloaded on the bare metal machines. So when you fire off a sandbox from a template or a snapshot, you're essentially directed to the bare metal machine where that snapshot is based on that NVMe drive, and then it literally just turns on that machine, and it's local. There's no network latency, anything on there. And so that is sort of the specificities that we, when we're thinking from first principles, what a computer would look like for an agent, that is what we came up with, and that's what we created.Benchmarks, 60ms Startup, and 50,000 SandboxesSwyx [00:15:02]: Yeah. I should maybe, I don't know if you endorse this, but there's someone that does compute SDK, you guys do very well on there, with like the TTI, right? I. is this a, is this a is this a relevant benchmark for you guys? I don't know.Ivan [00:15:16]: I don't know, and it changes every day. So today RKL is.Swyx [00:15:18]: I don't know what RKL is. Never heard of it.Ivan [00:15:20]: Yeah. RK, yeah, so it is there.Swyx [00:15:22]: You are, at least a third of the next tier of performance, and then, there's a lot of other better-known names that are very slow to start.Ivan [00:15:31]: Yeah. We've been the number one by far for a long time, and now there's different, there's different definitions also of sandboxes, different isolation patterns, different other things. So RKL runs it literally on the S3, the data, so it's very different, and they spin up a sandbox, spin up a container for that, so it's a different type of thing. So the definition of a sandbox is something that we can all, we all need to get along with. But yeah, we're insanely fast on getting these things, up and running. And so you can see even there that it's a zero point 0.10 to 0.11, so.Swyx [00:16:03]: Close enough. Yeah. what else do you need, right?Ivan [00:16:05]: Yeah. So the benchmarks itself, so, in this, in I don't think the benchmarks equate to market ownership or revenue or anything like that. and I've seen this with multiple benchmarks, not just in sandboxes, but in general benchmarks around.Swyx [00:16:20]: It's table stakes. It's just like.Ivan [00:16:21]: Exactly. But it doesn't hurt.Swyx [00:16:22]: Just roughly check.Ivan [00:16:22]: Like you definitely have to be up there and you have to be competing so that people know that, oh, this is definitely one of the top. Because this is only one dimension of what customers look for. There's other things like how many can you spin up consecutively? There's a feature set, there's support, there's like all different things that people look at, but you definitely have to be there, on the benchmarks.Swyx [00:16:40]: How many people do people spin up consecutively?Ivan [00:16:43]: So we have.Swyx [00:16:43]: Or concurrently, is the Concurrency, right?Ivan [00:16:45]: There's three metrics that we look at. And so one is like time to spin up one, and so our time to spin up one is 60 milliseconds with network latency. So request, spin up, reply, 60, the whole thing, 60 milliseconds. That is one. But if you wanna spin up 50,000 at once, we are now at about 75 seconds. So it takes about 75 seconds to spin up concurrently 50,000. Some others, there's public data around this, like take 2,000 seconds, which is 30 minutes. Like there's different variations of that. And then there is the so it is speed of one, speed of like multiple, and then how many can you consistently have up and running. And so we basically have right now no limit to how much we can add because we basically own our own metal. But the biggest customer of ours does like about 850,000 every single day is sort of where they're, where they're just shy of a million every single day that they're running, we do have a request for half a million concurrent, which is literally half a million CPUs somewhere running. So that's an interesting.Swyx [00:17:44]: They pay by like vCPU seconds.Ivan [00:17:47]: By seconds, yeah.Swyx [00:17:47]: Or whatever. Yeah. Okay, and so and then, and the other thing is, the sleeping and the resuming, ‘cause it's all the stateful resumption of all these things, how, what kind of workload are people putting through this, right? Like how is it Do we measure by gigabytes in memory, gigabytes in storage? I don't In like network attached storage. I, what are the costly ones of, out of all these features?Workload Economics: CPU, RAM, Network, and StorageIvan [00:18:15]: The most expensive thing are CPU.Swyx [00:18:18]: Okay. Yeah, of course.Ivan [00:18:18]: The second one, yeah Then it's RAM, then it's disk. We actually don't charge.Swyx [00:18:22]: Which is snapshotting, right?Ivan [00:18:23]: No, it's actually the, snapshotting's part of it, but basically the size of your hard disk, of your machine. So do you have 10 gigabytes, do you have 20, do you have 50, do you have whatever? And then the transference of that. Right now, currently we don't charge for, network at all at Polychron.Swyx [00:18:37]: Oh, you gotta, yeah, you gotta fix.Ivan [00:18:38]: Yeah. It is very much a it's a larger and larger part of our bill, so we're working around, that part there. Obviously, that is the least, expensive, so the hard disk is the least expensive, so it's basically CPU, RAM, for us network, ‘cause we don't charge the customer, and then hard disk, is how it's split up. But there's also different types of workloads, so we basically split it up into two types of workloads in Daytona. One is what we call background agents or long-running agents. and the other is, basically RLs and evals, which I put sort of together. And so they have very different patterns of usage, and if you look at the usage of a background And I'll just name names of companies, not specifically.Background Agents vs. RL/Evals: Two Usage ShapesSwyx [00:19:21]: Yeah, open, all hands.Ivan [00:19:23]: Yeah. So like a background agent's a Cognition, a Lovable, a like all these things are Harvey. These are all long-running, background agents. And so if you look at their usage patterns, their usage patterns are similar to human, which is like follow the sun. Basically, the usage patterns of that is like noon is probably the highest, and the midnight is the lowest, and then weekends are lower. weekday is higher.Swyx [00:19:42]: Yeah, that's a fun question. How global is it? Is it very US-centric or?Ivan [00:19:46]: The US is a large part, but we have currently, we have Asia, Europe, and the US regions.Swyx [00:19:52]: So it's quite global.Ivan [00:19:53]: Yeah, it's quite global. We have it all over. It's interesting that our I talked to you a bit about this. Our number one city by user.Swyx [00:20:01]: Hmm.Ivan [00:20:02]: Is Singapore.Swyx [00:20:04]: Oh, wow. Amazing.Ivan [00:20:05]: Which is an interesting one, right? Not by revenue, just by just like by individual head count.Swyx [00:20:09]: Really?Ivan [00:20:09]: Just like an interesting thing.Swyx [00:20:10]: Singapore is, Singapore is weirdly high in the adoption charts of AI for the population. It's like an, seven, eight million population. And it's like keeps showing up.Ivan [00:20:20]: No, it's quite interesting. We were quite shocked, and I was like, “Oh, this is interesting.” And also one that's up there.Swyx [00:20:24]: There's a reason I'm doing AI using Singapore. it's because I'm from there.Ivan [00:20:27]: We're there. We're gonna, we're gonna be there as well. and it's interesting that Japan is in the top or like Tokyo's in the top, which is in all the tech cycles it has never been. It has never been, so it's quite interesting that they're.Swyx [00:20:39]: I think the Japanese just love AI. Yeah. It's that, and then it's Brazil. That's it.Ivan [00:20:44]: Brazil has always been in.Swyx [00:20:45]: I think.Ivan [00:20:46]: Even when I look, if you look at like GitHub's data and ask historically with CodeAnywhere, it was always like US, Western Europe, and then you'd have like India, Brazil, China, like that would be there. But like Singapore was not in, specifically Japan was never in sort of that top, that top.Swyx [00:21:01]: Yeah. Weird pockets.Ivan [00:21:01]: Weird. Yeah, so it's very global.Swyx [00:21:02]: Okay, so actually that, but that's helps you to distribute your load through, all time?Ivan [00:21:08]: The interesting thing is like we have those kind of loads, but if you look at the researcher loads, they're quite different. So what they are is like if you give them concurrency of 10,000 or 50,000 or 100,000 CPUs at ARMb, when they fire off a run, it's just 100%. And then it just runs, and then it stops. So it's very, the usage pattern is squares basically, right? And it's also not follow the sun, because people will fire it off at midnight before they go to sleep but then wake up and so it's very unpredictable, so you don't know where that is. So the shapes of the usage are quite different than we have had before. And also what's interesting is when it's sort of a follow the sun, even if you have a high growth company, you can sort of predict your usage patterns and have enough capacity for that, because it's sort of, it grows in a, in a way you can project. When you have companies doing sort of like evals and RL, they're super spiky. So they're gonna come in, it's like, “We're gonna use nothing, then can we have 100,000?” Right? And then go back down. And then 100,000, go back down. So it's very different, right? And.Swyx [00:22:09]: Do you want to lock them into commits so.Ivan [00:22:11]: Yeah, we do.Swyx [00:22:12]: Yeah, okay.Ivan [00:22:12]: We so we have to lock them into some sort of commits to have that capacity, because we have to have, basically we have to have the capacity for peak. Right? And so right now, Daytona's mean utilization is 15%, 1-5.Swyx [00:22:25]: Oh my God.Ivan [00:22:26]: So it's very low.Swyx [00:22:27]: Because it's very spiky.Ivan [00:22:27]: It's very spiky, but we get up to 90%. so we have these things. And so what we're, what we're looking at right now as a company is similar to Cloudflare where you can like geo move things around, but that works really well for basically the background agent where it's follow the sun. But this, it's not. Like it's a very different shape. Obviously with scale you figure these things out, but that's an interesting new problem that we have, as a compute provider in the agent space. And when we were doing the conference recently, and so we talked to like Nikita from Neon and.Swyx [00:22:57]: I should bring it up.Ivan [00:22:58]: Parag from Parallel and whatnot, everyone has the same problem. Whereas the usage is super spiky, and this is something that has not happened before, that you have these types of like it was always, it the amplitudes were not this high, right? So it's quite interesting use case and problem solve.Compute Conference and Spiky Agent InfrastructureSwyx [00:23:12]: Yeah, I don't know if we're gonna bring this up again, but let's just talk about the conference, you had like 1,000 something people at the Warriors game, at the Sorry, where is it? What's.Ivan [00:23:22]: Chase Center.Swyx [00:23:23]: Chase Center.Ivan [00:23:23]: Chase Center.Swyx [00:23:24]: I went. It was, it was very impressive. Obviously, you can, how to throw a conference, what did you learn? you put, you pulled together all these impressive names.Ivan [00:23:33]: What I.Swyx [00:23:34]: What were you looking for?Ivan [00:23:35]: My thesis behind the Compute Conference was let's bring together people that are building infrastructure for AI agents. Because when I think of what we're building, it is the agent is the primary user, what are the ergonomics and usage patterns of agents, and so we can do that. And what I found, this was a theory, it wasn't proven, is that we all have these problems, as I touched onto. And I was, as I was talking on stage, it was like we all have the same underlying infra problems, which is this spiky workloads, unpredictable workloads that we've never had before, in human, compute or human infrastructure. And it's, again, it's the same when I was talking to Parag or when I was talking.Swyx [00:24:20]: Lynn. Nikita.Ivan [00:24:21]: Lynn, Nikita. Lynn especially, I was talking to her the other day as well. Like the It is a very interesting type of problem to solve because I can touch on Cloudflare because there's a lot of like talk about that recently as to how they solve that, which is they have a bunch of geos, and basically, as users work in different places, and depending on your tier, they can move you around the geos. And so that how, that's how they get the higher utilization. But you can sort of predict these, and it's If it's something in You'll rarely get a spike that is 10 orders of magnitude. Like you'll get a like let's say one of your customers has some like an exponential curve. What is that to I'm using Cloudflare as an example. 10%, 20%, whatever it is. I don't, I don't have this data, I'm just assessing. It's surely not 10x, right? It's surely not something there. And so how do you go out and solve this problem? And we're all solving this in different ways. So we have.Swyx [00:25:11]: She also has the same thing.Ivan [00:25:12]: Yeah, I know specifically that like Neon had that issue as well. Like how are we solving these spiky loads and things like that ‘cause we talked about it. And so the interesting thing for me to actually internalize was, yes, everyone that's building for agents first is going through this, and we're all solving similar problems, which is quite.Swyx [00:25:28]: Let me let me double-click on this. Okay. So for example, Neon, I happen to know that they're very sort of S3 oriented, right? so they're just like fully bet on S3. And you get to benefit from S3's distribution and infrastructure. So I would imagine that Neon doesn't have to care, whereas Lynn maybe has to care a bit more because obviously she's doing GPU inference. And, for listeners, we did an episode with her, one and a half years ago. And you have to care. But like, right?Ivan [00:25:54]: Parag cares for sure, and Nikita.Swyx [00:25:58]: And Parag is C of, Parallel.Ivan [00:25:59]: Parallel, yeah.Swyx [00:26:00]: Former CTO of Twitter.Ivan [00:26:01]: Twitter, yeah.Swyx [00:26:02]: They are the search.Ivan [00:26:03]: Yeah, they're search, yeah.Swyx [00:26:03]: I You and I know but the listeners don't know.Ivan [00:26:08]: Yeah, we can put it down in the screen, and so ‘cause we, when we were talking.Swyx [00:26:11]: I'll put it up on the, on the screen.Ivan [00:26:12]: Yeah, right.Swyx [00:26:12]: People can look it up if they need.Ivan [00:26:14]: Look it up. And, yes, but they still have CPU and RAM, allocation that you have to have up and running. And so CPU and RAM, you have to allocate that and have that ready. And so there's basically two ways to do it. One is you either over-provision and you can handle the bursts, or two, you basically have, I don't know if this is a term, just-in-time compute, which is like as your load becomes, as your usage comes in, you can fire off requests for VMs or bare metals at other cloud providers and then get them up and running.Swyx [00:26:43]: This is if you go above 100%, right?Ivan [00:26:45]: Yeah, this is.Swyx [00:26:46]: Like your overflow.Ivan [00:26:46]: If your overflow, like spillage or whatever you do.Swyx [00:26:48]: You probably lose money on it, but it doesn't matter, right?Ivan [00:26:50]: It, not Well, you might, you might not That is a more cost-effective way to do it but it's a slower way to do it. Because basically what you have to do is you have to like queue your requests, spin up these just-in-time compute, get it all ready, provision it, and then get your workload there. And so if the time isn't important that much, that's fine, and you can do that. But if your customer, and especially for, let's say, the RL training runs, the reason why a lot of people come to us is because GPUs are more expensive than CPUs, right? So you want your GPU running at, what, 100% the entire time. And so when you're running runs on CPUs, when the when the CPU cycle is like down and spinning up the next one, you want that to be instantaneous so that your GPU doesn't go down, right? And if you then have to like go out and provision machines, you're essentially telling the GPU that it has to wait, and that's incurring our cost. So there's things that you have to try to solve for there.RL Workloads, Declarative Images, and Kubernetes ReplacementSwyx [00:27:43]: Yeah, let's talk about the different workload, right? You said that, what was it? A few months ago, you had zero RL workload and now it's 50%.Ivan [00:27:52]: It will be this one, 50%, yeah.Swyx [00:27:54]: Let's talk about how different it is, right? Like I imagine, for example, a lot less dynamic code generation of like arbitrary code. Like here, it's probably all the same code. You're just doing parallel runs or something, I don't know.Ivan [00:28:05]: Yeah. So you'll have multiple Depends on the like for each run, you'll have a snapshot. And they, for the most part, they actually do use our declarative image builder, which is like, “Oh, we, the agent wants these dependencies, these env vars.”Swyx [00:28:17]: These ones, yeah.Ivan [00:28:18]: Yeah, the declarative image builder, it.Swyx [00:28:20]: Which is a very modal like thing that they.Ivan [00:28:22]: Yeah. And so we build it on the fly and then we propagate that snapshot, and you can spin up as many sandboxes as you want against that snapshot. And then if you have to do changes, the model can, or like it could be also be automated. It's like, “Oh, now for the next run, we need to install these things or remove these things or whatever to get, a task done,” and then it goes off and runs that. So yes, that is something that it seems that they prefer. The number one reason I found, or should I say, let's take a step back. What we are competing against in that environment is essentially managed Kubernetes. So EKS, GKE, whatever. That is what the vast majority run on. And anyone that has tried Daytona versus GKE, EKS is like, “I'm never going back.” That has always been. There's a few reasons. One is the ergonomics. So if you have, if you're using Kubernetes to spin that up, you have to essentially manage the interface interactions with that. Daytona, although as a compute provider, it's more akin to a Twilio and Stripe from a consumption perspective than it is an AWS. Like you have an API, an SDK, it's quite like easy and seamless to get these things up and running, that's one. The other is the speed to which we spin up, which we mentioned earlier, which is much faster, and the scale to which we can go to. We haven't got into features, but an interesting feature is that it's very hard to OOM, or out of memory, our sandboxes, because we can dynamically on the fly.Swyx [00:29:48]: Resize.Ivan [00:29:49]: Resize, which is like impossible on almost any other thing. There are some technologies that enable you to do that, but it's like a very hard thing. And so we actually saw this when, the Terminal Revenge team is, brought us actually. So thank you, Alex and the team, that brought us into this whole space.Swyx [00:30:05]: It's just very rare that, a framework would just say, “Guys, just use Daytona.”Ivan [00:30:11]: Yeah, I think it says it somewhere. Yeah.Swyx [00:30:13]: Yeah. I was like, “What is this?”Ivan [00:30:15]: There's all, there's multiple there, but they also mention a few other places. and so Daytona specifically-We have, the, just jumping on themes here We, I don't know where it says Data Center.Swyx [00:30:27]: I, there.Ivan [00:30:27]: Doesn't matter.Swyx [00:30:28]: There's a very strong recommendation, which is, very unusual. Which is, it's.Ivan [00:30:33]: We do not pay them for this, just.Swyx [00:30:34]: I know, yeah. They just like you.Ivan [00:30:35]: Yeah, they like us. yeah, and also a thing, so, Data Center has multiple isolation sets underneath. The customer doesn't have to know what they are. But basically we have Docker, which is a container, that's hardened with Sysbox. So it's Docker's, isolation that is a security equivalent to a VM, but it's still a container. And that is the default, and they, especially in these training workloads, really like that as an interface to be able to use just a basic Docker container, and we enable Docker and Docker. Which for these RL runs, if you need to do a Docker compose or Kubernetes, you can spin up a K3S inside of these things, which unlocks a huge amount of workloads that you can do that you cannot do on other providers. So just on that part is much more interesting. And so we went that, through that. We showed them that we could do that, and they enjoyed that quite a bit. They being the general venture people.Swyx [00:31:28]: Those people, yeah.Ivan [00:31:29]: And Harbor people.Swyx [00:31:29]: Harbor people, do are they, are they a company yet?Ivan [00:31:33]: As far, I do not know.Customer Pull, Slack Connect, and the Computer Use BetSwyx [00:31:35]: Okay. All right. Yeah. It's like super obvious that like, there's a lot of excitement and success around these things, okay, so yeah, tell us more, right? Like, this is an exploding workload, Harbor adopted you, which helped speed things along. But what are you learning as this new workload comes online?Ivan [00:31:53]: There's a couple things that we learned, which we chat about in the beginning. We, and this has led our story, as we mentioned, we like talked to a lot of customers along the way, and we add more features and more tool sets as we talk to customers. And it's interesting that And I think it's that the ecosystem is so small and/or the models get smarter, where when we see one user come with a request, we know it goes on a roadmap if like three to five customers come with the same request in that week. It's like very bizarre. It happens so many times, which is.Swyx [00:32:27]: Because they're all friends.Ivan [00:32:28]: Sorry?Swyx [00:32:28]: They all, they're all friends. They're all in the same group chat.Ivan [00:32:30]: Yeah, probably, yeah. ‘Cause and they're like, “Oh, can you do this?” And I'm like, “Okay, this is interesting. We'll put it on a feature request.” And then the next one's like, “Oh, can you do this?” “Okay.” It's all the same, right? It's always the same. And so what we try to do, and I personally try to do, I try to be on as many call, quote-unquote “sales calls” I can. I'm in every Slack channel. We literally have about 1,000 Slack Connect channels, something like that. It's an interesting, there's so many interesting things you find out when you have all the Slack channels. You can also see where people, transfer between companies. You see leave Slack channel, enter Slack channel. It's an interesting thing. Also, just I digress, I feel that Slack Connect is literally LinkedIn what it should be. You have a list.Swyx [00:33:08]: LinkedIn charges you to, use your own connections, but Slack doesn't, right? Slack is like, do it for free. It's more lock-in. It's great.Ivan [00:33:15]: Yeah. It's amazing. Yeah. It's one of the reasons.Swyx [00:33:17]: You're gonna pay Slack for life.Ivan [00:33:18]: Exactly. You're there for life. So that's interesting. And so one of the things, the newer things we were talking about earlier is we made a big bet and put a lot of investment on computer use. that is not seen publicly the light of day. We haven't GA'd that yet, but we have.Swyx [00:33:32]: Is there a thing I can pull up?Ivan [00:33:33]: There is computer use there. It's right up a bit.Swyx [00:33:36]: Oh, yeah. Okay.Ivan [00:33:38]: What we have, what we talked about and what we've seen publicly is there's this theme now about, the human emulator where And Elon from XAI has talked about this publicly, and if you think about the models today, they're actually quite sophisticated and they can do a lot of work, but they still don't have access to all the tools. Like, I'm a strong believer that the most efficient way for an agent to work is essentially headless or through, terminal or whatnot. But if we, if we look at knowledge work in general, there's about 100 million knowledge workers in the US, about a billion in the world, and knowledge workers, and the salaries of them aggregate to 10 trillion in the US 50 trillion worldwide.Swyx [00:34:24]: Wow.Ivan [00:34:25]: Something like that. And if we look at, the five most important sectors of that, so like healthcare and government and financial services and whatnot, that's about 56% of that. So let's say it's about half of that. So in the US it's about 25 trillion, and most of them, most of that work is actually still locked into legacy apps inside of Windows, which is not going anywhere for a very long time. Like, people just won't invest in that. How much of it? our assumption is the following: if, in the RPA market, which is similar market, well, not the same 25% of, these white collar, workers', work is automated. If an agent is more sophisticated, can go through more runs, figure stuff out, let's say it's, 40%, right? And so if you take 40% of that, you get to essentially, $10 trillion a year.Swyx [00:35:17]: That's a TAM.Ivan [00:35:18]: That is a that is a TAM. So that's the TAM of the models, right? That's not our, essentially ours. But you get to that size, and to be able to do that, you essentially have to give agents these computers with the legacy. So computer use, either Mac or Windows or Linux. Linux we also obviously have and others have. But Windows specifically is something very new, and the only option right now is an EC2 with, Windows or on Azure. Both of them take anywhere from three to five minutes to spin up. We've created an actual sandbox, so it's a second instead of milliseconds, but you have, point in time snapshots, you have, forking, you have all the things that you have from a sandbox, but essentially enables you to hopefully unlock all this value. And so that's been our big push and bet, but we've sort of, kept our ear to the ground. What is sort of the next things in the market?RPA Returns: Why Agents Still Need ComputersSwyx [00:36:06]: Yeah, knowledge work, and building, and sort of RPA, the next wave of RPA. I got very excited about RPA kind of during COVID times. The UI path was IPO-ing. And it was, a very hot Isn't it, Eastern European?Ivan [00:36:20]: It is, Romanian.Swyx [00:36:21]: Romanian?Yeah, it might be the only Romanian, big unicorn okay, yeah. This I don't I don't, I don't have like a I think there's, I think there's a stage being set for the resurgence of RPA, ‘cause everyone understands that, yeah, no one wants to deal with these shitty apps and no one's gonna rewrite them. Like, you just have to do, a remote operation and programmatic operation of them.Ivan [00:36:45]: If you wanna unlock it, my own setup was basically the following. So I was doing a board deck recently, last month, whatever, and I'm like, “Okay, let's just, let's just do automated.” So, all our data's in, ClickHouse and PostHog and QuickBooks, where everyone else's is, and I'm basically, connected that all to, my Cloud code, like go off and go Cloud code whatever. Go off and, here's the integrations, go do that. It pulled out the first report, which was great. It connected to Brex and all these things, pulled it, which was great, and then I say, “Okay, now pull out this, and this,” and I kept getting, really well McKinsey-style design reports, but the data said partial data. all the missing data, partial data. Like, it can't access all the things, and I got so frustrated, and so I got, I got, my Mac Mini virtual sandbox with OpenClaw. I gave it its own account in our company, and then I went to all these services and created a read-only account, so literally like an intern in your company. And so I would say, “Now go and do this report,” and it would get the same, or like, “I can't via the MCP or the API or whatever. I can't get all the information.” I'm like, “Go log in.” And it will log into the website, then go in, export the data. It'll export the data and do the thing end to end. So even for things that have today APIs, not all of it is exposed, and I to get value, I get immense value right now, but it has to be a computer usage, unfortunately, and so I spend a bunch of tokens just on that, but I get the job done. And so if even a startup like ours, and using all the hottest tools, still needs a computer agent what hope does, Goldman have to have a headless, right?Swyx [00:38:22]: Yeah, what a - Why isn't Microsoft doing this?Ivan [00:38:27]: I'm pretty sure, Satya had a post yesterday.Swyx [00:38:29]: Oh, okay. I see.Ivan [00:38:29]: Which was like, “Every agent needs a computer.”Swyx [00:38:31]: I see, I see.Ivan [00:38:32]: So they have launched something recently.Swyx [00:38:34]: Yeah, they have Microsoft Power Automate, I'm sure, I'm sure, they're gonna have their version.macOS Sandboxes, Apple Constraints, and the Windows OpportunityIvan [00:38:39]: Version of that, yeah.Swyx [00:38:39]: You're gonna try to do yours, and it - I always know there's always demand for Mac, but I know it's, tricky to host, macOS sandboxes.Ivan [00:38:49]: We will have macOS sandboxes fairly soon. The problem with macOS, OS sandboxes is, I'm deep in this, I don't know how much interesting is.Swyx [00:38:55]: No, it's.Ivan [00:38:56]: MacOS has this problem.Swyx [00:38:57]: It's a licensing thing, right?Ivan [00:38:58]: Licensing thing. So one, you're allowed to run only two parallel VMs per machine, so that's one. Two, you can only license to a different user every 24 hours. So if you come in and theoretically, if I wanna charge you per second and I charge you one second, I have to have it idle for the rest of the day. I can't have anyone else doing that. So the pricing will be different in the sense that I will have to - we would have to charge for 24 hours, and that's not even, that's not even the most difficult thing. But the, thing above that is, from a security perspective, they enable you to do memory snapshot, pause, resume, but only on the same physical drive, physical machine. And so what you can do in, Windows world or Linux world is that I can move in the background, your snapshot from one to the other and manage load, right? Here, if you wanna do that, you essentially have to have your.Swyx [00:39:49]: Yeah, snapshots. Yeah.Ivan [00:39:50]: Your.Swyx [00:39:51]: It's like.Ivan [00:39:51]: Physical machine.Swyx [00:39:52]: You can't break it up.Ivan [00:39:53]: You can't, you can't move things around that, and all of that is, that part is, from a security standpoint, if it is written. Like, I understand the security aspect of that, but it disables you from doing these agentic, like really scalable agentic workloads.Swyx [00:40:08]: You need to do a vibe-coded, clean room implementation on macOS that you can then - That's like Clean OS or something. I don't know.Ivan [00:40:17]: So. We have.Swyx [00:40:18]: ‘cause like Linux was originally like a clean room rewrite of Unix.Ivan [00:40:21]: Okay. Yeah.Swyx [00:40:21]: Or something like that, right? Like same thing to macOS. Someone needs to do it.Ivan [00:40:25]: Someone will do that, and someone will have some long-running agents for a few days to figure this stuff out. But yeah. So definitely we - we're really close to offering something ‘cause people do want it, but the pricing will be different, and the feature set will be sort of stringent.Swyx [00:40:38]: Yeah, nobody's gonna use this. like, the labs, the labs will because they want to automate macOS.Ivan [00:40:42]: They have to do RL. They have to do RL again. But even if you The - So the point is with the RL part, if you, if you do RL on macOS, then the next iteration of the model comes out, it will be able to use these tools significantly. Then you actually need to run those, that somewhere. So you're gonna have to have that, later on. And from, if anyone at Apple is listening, I very much feel that they are shooting themselves in the foot of the scale of the revenue of compute or licensing they could get if they would just enable a concurrency model similar to what you can get on a Windows and a, and Linux.Swyx [00:41:17]: Yeah. Yeah. And I'm sure they've heard this before. They just don't care. Yeah, it's And maybe they will change their mind with the new CEO.Ivan [00:41:24]: Yeah. We'll see.Swyx [00:41:25]: We'll see.Ivan [00:41:25]: High hopes.Swyx [00:41:26]: High hopes.Ivan [00:41:26]: High hopes.Swyx [00:41:27]: Okay. But I, it's very clear the market opportunity is huge in Windows, and you can go for a long time on just Windows, but your customers are gonna want both. and I think, it is interesting to me that, this is the sort of God application of agents, right? Like, I don't It was - How big was OpenClaw for you guys? Like, was it, was there, a significant bump.OpenClaw, Agent Labs, and the B2B2C Sandbox MarketIvan [00:41:54]: Not for us because we.Swyx [00:41:54]: Because you already.Ivan [00:41:55]: We're kind of positioned differently. Whereas although it's completely PLG and we have individual developers that use it, most of the users that use Daytona are sort of a B2B2C. Sort of it's either B2B or B2B2C. So, in the researcher world, it's B2B, so you're selling to, labs and neo labs and things like that. But on the long-running agents, it's mostly, from a scale revenue perspective, it's mostly B2B2C, where you have a app layer agent that uses you at a big scale.Swyx [00:42:26]: Like a Manus. Yeah.Ivan [00:42:28]: Like a Manus Lovable type of thing.Swyx [00:42:31]: Yeah. I think that's the question of, well how, um-Uh, yeah, B2B to C is basically to me what I've been calling an agent lab, which is kind of like you're not in a model lab, but you're making a very good wrapper that is a platform that other people can sign up so they don't have to code those things. Yeah, it sound, it sounds like a much better market than the direct OpenClaw market.Ivan [00:42:56]: I've like - We I've done multiple things. So the CodeAnywhere's part of our career path R in the calendar, was very much an end user developer product. And so that is great. It You can get a lot of developer love, and I feel that we do as a company have a bunch of developer love. But it's a different type, where it's people building these things. Again, it's more akin to a Twilio because you don't really run - As a person, you wouldn't run Twilio. I don't know how many people remember. It was like ask your developer billboard and whatnot. And people really love Twilio, but they only used it inside of like, “Oh, I'm building this app or service for thing.” And so we're very much directly to that. And you also know that I used to work for a competitor for Twilio, so it's kind of ingrained, in my DNA.Swyx [00:43:35]: People don't know InfoBip is that big.Ivan [00:43:38]: Yeah, it's.Swyx [00:43:39]: Because.Ivan [00:43:40]: It's a billion euro.Swyx [00:43:40]: They're all American. They're like, “Whatever's in Europe doesn't matter to me.” But like it's the, it's the same size or bigger? Same size?Ivan [00:43:46]: It's about half the size.Swyx [00:43:47]: Half the size?Ivan [00:43:48]: Yeah, about half the size.Swyx [00:43:48]: It's like, yeah.Ivan [00:43:48]: Still huge. Multiple billions a year. Yes.Swyx [00:43:51]: That's crazy.Ivan [00:43:51]: Exactly, and so that - These are like really interesting and large revenue-generating, very sticky businesses. Whereas when you're selling to the - When your focus is the end developer, it is a very hard sell because they're very price sensitive, very price conscious, very around that. And there's very It's very hard to scale. Your cap is the number of people that are willing to spin up - First of all, wanna spin that up, and then spin up multiple of these. Whereas if you're in the enterprise one, like we know everyone's talking about like how many tokens they're spending, I'm spending. Like a lot of companies today are like, “If this is our company, spend as much as you can.” Like basically that is where we're going. And so if you think about that paradigm, where you're selling to companies that say, “Spend as much as you can to generate, productivity,” versus, “Oh, I'm a single person. I have this much budget, and I'm doing this thing because it's fun or it's helping me out or whatever.” Like it is a different, it's a different go-to-market, I think, strategy.MCP, CLIs, and Sandboxes as the Agent RuntimeSwyx [00:44:50]: Yeah, there's a lot of discussion. I'm just kind of going through like the mental list of things that are in your favor, which is, for example, MCP versus CLI. Like obviously you want CLI. It's been very good for you. I feel like it's maybe a drop in the bucket or maybe it's huge. I'm just checking whether it's like these are big trends.Ivan [00:45:10]: Those things you - work well in our favor, to your point just because every.Swyx [00:45:13]: They're kind of drop in the bucket, right?Ivan [00:45:15]: I think it's like sort of all the things come together. And so there's so many things that impact that. To your point, like OpenClaw wasn't huge for us, but like having the agent SDK, from Anthropic, so or Cloud Claude Code was very interesting. The reason why it was interesting is that a lot of, let's call them app I don't know what to call them, app layer agent companies, essentially they are like, “Oh, I can create this new app, this new agent. All I need, I just use Claude Code, and I throw it into a sandbox, and then I have my interface to the human to that.” And so that enabled so many more companies to actually offer this, and then they would pull on sandbox. So that was, that was interesting. And to your point, like MCP, versus the CLI, the MCP is an interface against an API, whereas the CLI is like you can actually go do things. Like this is it. The difference between integrations and actually running scripts or data or analysis against a thing. So being able to use a CLI very well enables the agent to do more things, and it's because that people will invoke a sandbox, they'll run it in the CLI, and but it'll do anal-analysis on that data and then give you an actual result versus just, pulling data from an API source.Swyx [00:46:29]: Yeah, it's a layer of indirection basically, it's the same thing as agentic search versus RAG, which where you're.Ivan [00:46:34]: Exactly, yeah.Swyx [00:46:34]: Just like you just win whenever people put more agents into their workflow. And so like it doesn't really matter, but I'm just kinda teasing out like what else have people heard about that like it's sort of, “Oh yeah, this is another sandbox use case. Oh yeah, that's another one.” Am I, am I missing any big ones?Ivan [00:46:51]: The thing, the thing that people, which is the computer use stuff, which I think is probably the most interesting one, is, and to your point, we've talked to so many people over the last year. It's like, “Oh, like why do you need a sandbox? Why do you need this? Why this?” And to your point, it's like, “Oh, I need sandbox for this. I need sandbox for that. I need sandbox-” It's like, “Oh, I need it for every single thing.” And so basically what I, what I - and it sounds like a broken record, it's like you use a laptop every single day, right? And you are n of one. It's just you. But now imagine how And by the way, the laptop, the computer PC market, the PC market is about equal to the cloud market in total. So it's about 150, 180 billion a year. Something like that. It's about roughly the three cloud hyperscalers is about equal to like Apple, HP, Lenovo, whatever, It's a little bit less, but it's sort of like that. And now imagine And that's just like, so how big is the addressable market? What, how many people are there in the world now? What's the last data?Swyx [00:47:45]: Let's call it eight billion.Ivan [00:47:46]: Eight billion. And so let's say you can have two computer, like you have one personal and one business, whatever. Like so it's double that, right? and so that's 16 billion, right? How many agents are gonna be running in two years, in 10 years, in 100 years? Like And for every single task, they will need one of these. And so how big is that? That market is essentially quote unquote “infinite”. You will get to the point, and Dylan Patel was at the conference talking about, from SemiAnalysis, that talks usually about GPUs, was also talking about how CPUs will now be a bottleneck because it will be the constraint. You won't be able to grow, or we won't be able to have enough of these because there won't be enough CPUs to basically do.Swyx [00:48:23]: Yeah. Well, I actually had a really good podcast with Doug Oliphant, who, which was his president at SemiAnalysis, where they've basically been like, yeah, it's been a GPU shortage first, but then it's cascaded down to memory and now to CPUs.Ivan [00:48:35]: CPU, yeah.Swyx [00:48:35]: It-What's next? So networking. So, networking actually has been in shortage for a while if you're looking at, just GPU networking. But, yeah, it's really crazy the amount of computer use that's going on, yeah, cool. I, other questions are, just the one very big part is the open sourceness which you didn't have to do, your competitors don't do, like it's not, a lot of people are worried about keeping their projects open source because some competitor can just slot fork it. I don't know if there's any reflections on just being an open source company.Open Source, Trust, and Enterprise ProcurementIvan [00:49:15]: Yeah. There's a bunch. So we the original product that we did was open source.Swyx [00:49:19]: Yeah. CodeAnywhere.Ivan [00:49:20]: So doing that was actually very good for us. There's basically a saying of, What's the saying? Like, companies that are, that are doing really well, measure themselves against, free cashflow, that are kinda okay, it's EBITDA, then, it's, it goes all the way down.Swyx [00:49:36]: The worst is like GitHub stars.Ivan [00:49:37]: GitHub stars. GitHub stars are the worst, yeah. So you go all the way down to GitHub stars. And so our original one was GitHub stars. That's what we talked about, we're at the point we're talking about revenue, so we're we've gone up the stack on that. And so we started.Swyx [00:49:47]: No, profit.Ivan [00:49:48]: Yeah. We haven't, we're, we'll get there. We'll get there. But basically at that point we did stars and GitHub and it was useful, and the original variation that we did, it we split the core into its own repo and it was Apache 2.0, so very, permissive. And then we basically would bundl

Today, Fresh Fusion turns 8 years old, and I figured this would be a good opportunity to reflect on the history of the show, step through some of the highlights and a low point or two, and consider how I feel about podcasting now that I've got 130 episodes of the show in the can. And friends, you'll be treated to the sounds of my CRAZY CAT as he goes trilling & scampering through the studio! BTW, be sure to stick around until the very end, and I mean the very end of the episode for a special easter egg from a past era!

Fluent Fiction - Swedish: From Coffee Dreams to Creative Duos: Elin's Bold Journey Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/sv/episode/2026-05-19-22-34-01-sv Story Transcript:Sv: Den ljumma vårvinden smekte kullerstensgatorna i Gamla Stan, där kaffedofter lockade förbipasserande in i det lilla kaféet Ett Ställe.En: The lukewarm spring wind caressed the cobblestone streets in Gamla Stan, where the scent of coffee enticed passersby into the small café Ett Ställe.Sv: Solen strålade genom fönstret och kastade dansande skuggor på väggarna.En: The sun streamed through the window, casting dancing shadows on the walls.Sv: Bakom disken stod Elin.En: Behind the counter stood Elin.Sv: Hennes händer rörde sig vant mellan espressomaskinen och mjölkkannan.En: Her hands moved skillfully between the espresso machine and the milk jug.Sv: Kaffet var bästa delen av hennes dag, men drömmarna om ett eget designstudio låg dolda under förklädet.En: Coffee was the best part of her day, but her dreams of owning her own design studio lay hidden beneath the apron.Sv: En dag när Elin fyllde på kaffebönorna kom en man in i kaféet.En: One day, as Elin was refilling the coffee beans, a man entered the café.Sv: Hans namn var Johan.En: His name was Johan.Sv: Han bar med sig en laptop och en anteckningsbok fylld av tankar och idéer.En: He carried a laptop and a notebook filled with thoughts and ideas.Sv: Johan var en tech-entreprenör i behov av ny inspiration.En: Johan was a tech entrepreneur in need of new inspiration.Sv: När Elin serverade honom en cappuccino lade han märke till hennes t-shirt med ett konstnärligt tryck.En: When Elin served him a cappuccino, he noticed her t-shirt with an artistic print.Sv: "Vem har designat det där?"En: "Who designed that?"Sv: frågade Johan nyfiket.En: asked Johan curiously.Sv: Elin rodnade och log blygt.En: Elin blushed and smiled shyly.Sv: "Jag gjorde det," svarade hon tyst.En: "I did," she replied softly.Sv: Klara, Elins bästa vän och ständiga uppmuntrare, hade ofta sagt att Elin borde visa upp sitt arbete mer.En: Klara, Elin's best friend and constant encourager, had often said that Elin should showcase her work more.Sv: De samtalade medan Johan arbetade, och det visade sig att de båda hade mycket gemensamt.En: They conversed while Johan worked, and it turned out they had much in common.Sv: Elin berättade om sina drömmar och Johan delade sina tankar om sitt nya projekt.En: Elin spoke of her dreams and Johan shared his thoughts on his new project.Sv: En idé formades där och då, men Elin tvekade.En: An idea formed then and there, but Elin hesitated.Sv: Hon kände osäkerhet och rädsla för att inte räcka till.En: She felt uncertainty and fear of not being enough.Sv: Klara märkte Elins oro och stöttade henne.En: Klara noticed Elin's anxiety and supported her.Sv: "Du måste våga ta chansen.En: "You have to dare to take the chance.Sv: Visa Johan din portfolio.En: Show Johan your portfolio.Sv: Du har inget att förlora," uppmuntrade hon.En: You have nothing to lose," she encouraged.Sv: Inspirerad av Klaras ord bestämde sig Elin för att ta steget.En: Inspired by Klara's words, Elin decided to take the step.Sv: Nästa dag visade hon Johan sina designarbeten.En: The next day, she showed Johan her design work.Sv: Johan blev imponerad.En: Johan was impressed.Sv: Han såg potentialen och föreslog ett samarbete.En: He saw the potential and suggested a collaboration.Sv: Trots hennes initiala tvekan kändes det rätt.En: Despite her initial hesitation, it felt right.Sv: Våren övergick till försommaren och Walpurgisnatten närmade sig, en kväll av eld och förnyelse.En: Spring turned into early summer, and Walpurgisnatten approached, an evening of fire and renewal.Sv: På kvällen samlades folk i Gamla Stan för att fira.En: In the evening, people gathered in Gamla Stan to celebrate.Sv: Elin och Johan satt i ett hörn på en takterrass, tända av kreativ energi och entusiasmen från folksamlingen nedanför dem.En: Elin and Johan sat in a corner on a rooftop terrace, ignited by creative energy and the enthusiasm of the crowd below them.Sv: Deras diskussion växte till ett jubileum av idéer, och de fann en lösning på ett problem i projektet.En: Their discussion grew into a celebration of ideas, and they found a solution to a problem in the project.Sv: Johan såg Elin i ögonen.En: Johan looked Elin in the eyes.Sv: "Du är verkligen begåvad, Elin," sa han med beundran.En: "You are truly talented, Elin," he said with admiration.Sv: "Tack," svarade hon och kände en värme sprida sig inom sig.En: "Thank you," she replied, feeling a warmth spread within her.Sv: I det ögonblicket förstod de båda att det fanns något mer, en känsla som sträckte sig bortom det professionella.En: In that moment, they both understood that there was something more, a feeling that reached beyond the professional.Sv: Månaderna gick och Elin fann en ny säkerhet i sitt arbete och sig själv.En: Months passed, and Elin found a new confidence in her work and in herself.Sv: Samarbetet med Johan blommade till något mer än bara jobb.En: The collaboration with Johan blossomed into something more than just work.Sv: Tillsammans byggde de inte bara ett företag utan även en djupare relation.En: Together, they built not only a company but also a deeper relationship.Sv: Elin upptäckte att risktagande kunde leda till oförglömliga äventyr och ovärderliga upplevelser.En: Elin discovered that taking risks could lead to unforgettable adventures and invaluable experiences.Sv: Hon hade brutit sig loss från sin rutin och visat att hennes talang var värdefull både för henne själv och andra.En: She had broken away from her routine and shown that her talent was valuable both to herself and others.Sv: Walpurgisnatts eldarna hade verkligen bringat förändring.En: The fires of Walpurgisnatt had indeed brought change. Vocabulary Words:lukewarm: ljummacaressed: smektecobblestone: kullerstensgatornapassersby: förbipasserandeenticed: lockadestreamed: stråladejug: mjölkkannanhidden: doldaentrepreneur: entreprenörinspiration: inspirationnoticed: lade märke tillcuriously: nyfiketblushed: rodnadeshyly: blygtskillfully: vantconversed: samtaladeuncertainty: osäkerhethesitation: tvekanencouraged: uppmuntradecollaboration: samarbeteapproached: närmade sigterrace: takterrassignite: tändaenthusiasm: entusiasmenadmiration: beundranunforgettable: oförglömligaadventures: äventyrinvaluable: ovärderligaroutine: rutinrenewal: förnyelse

Marcus Aurelius Anderson sits down for a return visit with J. Jason Hicks — author, technologist, and storyteller — to dig into his new nonfiction book The War of Leadership: Hard Lessons and Practical Truths for Surviving In and Beyond Leadership. Drawing from 30 years in the corporate world, Jason unpacks the uncomfortable truths that no one tells new leaders: the manipulation, the blind spots, the politics, and the quiet treachery of organizational life. Marcus and Jason explore why awareness of dark leadership tactics doesn't make you a bad leader — it makes you a prepared one. They also cover the craft of writing, the role of AI in creative work, and why the human element in art, music, and literature will never be replaceable. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS The Dark Side of Leadership — 2:16 Jason reads the defining passage from the book: "You'll be misled. You will be asked to mislead..." — a raw, unflinching look at how leadership corrupts incrementally, and how good people get drawn into cycles they never intended to be part of. The Blame Game & Double-Edged Sword — 6:23 Marcus and Jason break down how leaders attack their predecessors while their own teams are quietly building a case against them. Leadership blind spots, self-preservation, and the vicious cycle of blame are all on the table. The Message in a Bottle — 12:05 Jason reveals who he really wrote this book for: the bright-eyed, naive young professional walking into the arena with no idea what's coming. This is the intel he wishes someone had given him early in his career. Agreeable and Wrong vs. Disagreeable and Right — 17:57 One of the most quotable moments of the episode: Jason drops the line "It's better to be agreeable and wrong than disagreeable and right — you'll be remembered for being disagreeable, not for being right." Marcus and Jason unpack the tactical wisdom of knowing when to push back and when to let the dust settle. Jason Hicks was born in Deerfield, Illinois, raised in New Berlin, Wisconsin, and graduated from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh where he studied English literature, religions, and early Christianity. While attending a television screenwriting course, he won the department's screenwriting award for a Star Trek: The Next Generation script — then spent the next 30 years successfully avoiding writing while building a career in technology. Upon leaving that career, he returned to his first love and penned Ruin Waters: Bane Book One of the Annals of the Last Emissary, followed by the second book in the series, The Earth, My War. His debut nonfiction, The War of Leadership: Hard Lessons and Practical Truths for Surviving In and Beyond Leadership, draws directly from his three decades in the corporate world. He currently lives in Tucson, Arizona, where he writes, speaks, and coaches on leadership. Find him at linktr.ee/jjasonhicks and on social media @jjasonhicks. Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Leader's Edge podcast John Jackovin, executive director of the BrokerTech Ventures Accelerator, shares what he's seeing on the front lines of insurance innovation. As artificial intelligence moves from buzzword to business tool, the startups inside the BTV Accelerator are finding sharper, more sophisticated ways to put it to work. Jackovin breaks down the trends defining this year's cohort, previews what's ahead at BTV Mania, and explains how brokers and carriers are rethinking their technology and operational needs in an era of rapid change.

In this episode of Disruption/Interruption, KJ sits down with Alan Paulin, co-creator of Mavis, to explore how AI is fundamentally transforming the way we write and work. Alan shares his journey from building Cash App to creating a startup that eliminates "copy-paste purgatory" between AI tools and traditional word processors. The conversation dives into why the current AI workflow is broken, how Mavis enables true human-AI collaboration, and why the education system needs to evolve for an AI-native generation. This is essential listening for anyone frustrated with bouncing between ChatGPT and Google Docs—and a glimpse into the future of iterative, intelligent document creation. Four Key Takeaways: [0:18] AI tools today force a "one-shot" workflow that doesn't match how humans actually work - Most people work iteratively, meandering through drafts, massaging thoughts, and editing as they go. Current AI interfaces require big prompts and deliver static documents that force you into copy-paste hell, abandoning you once you leave the chat interface. [18:09] The real value of AI isn't just saving time, it's increasing happiness - Professionals didn't choose their fields to spend all day writing—they chose them to solve problems. By compressing the time spent on tedious documentation, AI tools like Mavis don't just create efficiency; they give people more time to do meaningful work they actually love. [13:34] Big tech companies are too slow to innovate in the AI-writing space - Google Docs and Microsoft Word haven't fundamentally changed in decades. Their massive user bases make rapid innovation nearly impossible—they're steering the Titanic. Startups have a unique advantage to tackle niches and experiment with workflows that giants simply can't. [34:29] The future belongs to "AI-native" thinkers who use AI as an extension of themselves - Industry is actively seeking people who seamlessly integrate AI into their workflow and thinking. The education system must evolve beyond testing what calculators and AI can do—and start focusing on critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving instead. Quote of the Show (17:52):"Most of these people didn't choose that field to spend all of their time writing. They chose it to solve problems." - Alan Paulin Join our Anti-PR newsletter where we’re keeping a watchful and clever eye on PR trends, PR fails, and interesting news in tech so you don't have to. You're welcome. Want PR that actually matters? Get 30 minutes of expert advice in a fast-paced, zero-nonsense session from Karla Jo Helms, a veteran Crisis PR and Anti-PR Strategist who knows how to tell your story in the best possible light and get the exposure you need to disrupt your industry. Click here to book your call: https://info.jotopr.com/free-anti-pr-eval Ways to connect with Alan Paulin: LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/alanpaulinCompany Website: https://mavislabs.ai How to get more Disruption/Interruption: Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/eccda84d-4d5b-4c52-ba54-7fd8af3cbe87/disruption-interruption Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/disruption-interruption/id1581985755 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6yGSwcSp8J354awJkCmJlDSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We're kicking off our AI Workplace and Culture series with Martha Shaughnessy, founder and CEO of The Key PR. Martha isn't just observing the AI transformation—she's living it. Her firm works with tech startups building with AI, and she's implementing AI tools in her own company.What we really appreciated about our conversation is Martha's refusal to give easy answers. She's both optimistic and pessimistic about where we're headed.What We Talked AboutMartha walked us through what's actually happening in the startup world right now (spoiler: it's all AI, all the time). We dug into why communications needs to be involved at the earliest stages of strategy, not bolted on at the end. She shared her framework for crisis communication when the tools and rules keep changing. And we explored what it means to co-create work when everything is shifting underneath us.Martha also brought what she calls her "punk ass perspective" on who gets to dominate the tech conversation—and why that matters for all of us.Key TakeawaysMost companies are either building with AI from the ground up or retrofitting existing products. The Wild West analogy applies, except those already on top (Google, Amazon, OpenAI) have such a dramatic lead that the playing field is fundamentally different.For most people, technology is magic. They don't care how it works—they care why it matters. The job is finding both the selfish impact (how it affects you personally) and the global impact (how it makes the world better).In crisis communication, simple truth beats complicated explanations every time. Over-explaining makes people suspicious. And sometimes you just have to take it—because if you messed up, someone's going to be mad.The "get it off my desk" jobs are most at risk. But curiosity, creativity, and systems thinking? Those become more valuable than ever. Martha's hope is that we graduate from productivity-first culture and reinvest in what makes us human.AI can do tremendous good—and tremendous harm. From literacy tutoring for kids with dyslexia to environmental damage from energy demands, this technology cuts both ways. We need visionary leadership and diverse perspectives in the room to navigate it well.Communications needs to be at the table early. Not as a bolt-on at the end, but at the concept stage when you're still figuring things out. That's where you catch potential crises before they happen.About Martha ShaughnessyMartha is the founder and CEO of The Key PR, a Bay Area-based communications firm she founded in 2017 with a mission to deliver high-impact, no-BS communications to her clients. Over the past 20+ years, Martha has worked with tech companies, startups, and nonprofits, helping them navigate the complex intersection of technology, culture, and human impact. She specializes in helping organizations tell stories that matter—finding the human thread in even the most technical products.Connect with MarthaMartha welcomes conversations about big ideas. Reach out if this resonated with you:Email: martha@thekeypr.com or yo@thekeypr.comWebsite: thekeypr.comLinkedIn: The Key PRResources:Navigating a big transition? Check out our Pivot Plan: 8 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Your Next Big Move.Think coaching might be right for you? Schedule a free consultation to explore how we can help you step into your next level of leadership.Interested in going deeper in your own leadership and building your network? Join the waitlist for The CoCreate Work Leadership Book Club to explore the themes from this episode in community—through powerful reads, reflection prompts, and live conversations.Our last session of the Culture Crash Course just ended, but if you're interested in a Culture Crash Course for your organization or team, please contact us at support@cocreatework.com.Interested in leadership development for your team? Our Workshops are a great wait to develop your team's skills and connection.At CoCreate Work, we believe in asking great questions. Click here to receive our guide to 40 Powerful Questions to accelerate your growth.We would love to connect with you!CoCreate Work on LinkedInCoCreate Work on InstagramLa'Kita on InstagramChloe on InstagramVisit our Podcast PageQuestions you would like us to answer on the podcast? Email us at podcast@cocreatework.com

Highlights from their conversation include:CCR's Background and Journey to FleetPulse (0:41)FleetPulse Overview (1:19)Trailer Telematics Industry Primer (4:41)Technological Advancements in Trailers (5:10)The Rise of Cargo Theft (7:50)Understanding Trailer Neglect (8:18)Impact of Cargo Theft Trends (10:07)Value of Smart Trailers (12:31)Case Study on FleetPulse Benefits (14:48)  Safety Concerns in US-Mexico Trade (18:07)Establishing a Startup Culture (23:15)Investor Expectations in Industrial Tech (26:07)Hiring at Fleet Pulse (29:13)Supply Chain Prediction for 2025 (30:11)Coaching and Mentoring Approach and Final Thoughts (30:55)Dynamo is a VC firm led by supply chain and mobility specialists that focus on seed-stage, enterprise startups.Find out more at: https://www.dynamo.vc/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Join Ivoclar (AND US!) this February at LMT Lab Day in Chicago. Ivoclar will be offering 16 different educational lectures over the three-day event, giving dental professionals plenty of opportunities to learn, connect, and grow. Visit labday.com/Ivoclar to view the full schedule and register, and be sure to stop by and see the Ivoclar team in the Windy City. Come see and talk to Elvis and Barb at all these amazing shows coming up in 2026 * Vision 21 in Las Vegas Jan 15-17 https://www.nadl.org/nadl-vision-21 * Cal-Lab Association Meeting in Chicago Feb 19-20 https://cal-lab.org/ * LMT Lab Day Chicago Feb 19-21 https://lmtmag.com/lmtlabday * Dental Lab Association of Texas Meeting in Dallas Apr 9-11 https://members.dlat.org/ * exocad Insights in Mallorca, Spain Apr 30 - May 1 https://exocad.com/insights-2026 This week we sit down with Stuart Steinbock for a wide-ranging conversation that blends dental industry history, innovation, and personal resilience. As a fourth-generation member of the Steinbock family, Stuart shares the origin story of Whip Mix (https://whipmix.com/)—from an egg beater with patented features to a global dental manufacturer—and his own unlikely path into the family business, including international expansion, lean manufacturing, and product development that helped shape how labs think about efficiency and quality The conversation follows Stuart's journey beyond Whip Mix into startups, direct-to-consumer aligners, 3D printing with Carbon (https://www.carbon3d.com/), pandemic-era manufacturing, and running a high-volume orthodontic lab, before landing at Digital Dental (https://www.digitaldental.com/) as president. Along the way, Stuart offers candid insights on entrepreneurship, digital workflows, ortho vs. restorative mindsets, leadership through change, and the human side of the dental industry—ending with a powerful personal update on family, recovery, and finding balance after adversity Special Guest: Stuart Steinbock.

Startup stress does not stop at the founder's desk and the hidden emotional ripple effects inside a company may be shaping employee mental health startup culture and long term viability more than any strategy deck ever could.   Sarah Lockwood is joined by Yael Benjamin founder of Startup Snapshot and Annika Sten Pärson founder of the Inner Foundation to unpack new research on the emotional reality inside early stage startups. Drawing on data from hundreds of employees alongside an investor perspective on mental health, the conversation challenges the assumption that stress lives mainly with founders. Anxiety burnout and sustained pressure show up across teams, often more intensely than leaders expect. What happens when employees feel startup stress without the context that helps them make sense of it?   A core insight centers on trust and transparency. The research shows that lack of clarity is one of the strongest drivers of distress inside startup culture, outweighing concerns about compensation or company survival. When founders underestimate how much their stress is felt or assume silence is protective, teams often fill the gaps with fear driven narratives. The episode reframes emotional health as a real business variable and argues that how founders communicate, regulate pressure and build trust already shapes retention performance and long term outcomes.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 The Inner World of Startup Founders 03:54 Research Insights on Employee Well-being 07:32 The Impact of Founder Stress on Teams 12:04 The Importance of Transparency in Startups 16:43 Building Support Systems for Founders and Teams 21:10 Preventative Strategies for Startup Success Connect with Yael Benjamin and Annika Sten Pärson: Connect with Yael on LinkedIn Visit Startup Snapshot The Inner Circle - Startup Snapshot Link to the Research   Connect with Annika on LinkedIn Visit the inner foundation   Connect with Sarah Lockwood: Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn Visit HiveCast   Connect with The Conscious Entrepreneur: Visit The Conscious Entrepreneur website  Follow The Conscious Entrepreneur on LinkedIn Follow The Conscious Entrepreneur on Instagram  Subscribe to The Conscious Entrepreneur on YouTube   HiveCast.fm is a proud sponsor of The Conscious Entrepreneur Podcast. Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Is 'Move Fast & Break Things' just permission to be reckless?Join Product Manager Brian Orlando and Enterprise Business Agility Consultant Om Patel as they examine Mark Zuckerberg's (in)famous mantra and reveal how it may have metastasized from breaking code to breaking laws, teams, and even contributing to real human harm.Watch or listen as we explore the critical dimensions of this philosophy, including:BREAKING SOFTWARE: How the original meaning of 'break things' (emphasizing first-mover advantage) evolved from rapid iteration of code to justifying regulatory evasion and monopolistic behavior.BREAKING TEAMS: Using Harvard research that shows 'always-on' cultures decrease productivity by 20% and spike turnover to discuss how intensity without recovery is just exploitation (and what to do instead).BREAKING PEOPLE: Discussing the human costs of unchecked speed, from Facebook's alleged role in the Myanmar genocide to Uber's systemic harassment culture to Theranos's fraud.LEARNING OVER SPEED: We discuss Eric Ries's seminal work: The Lean Startup and how it went out of it's way to emphasize learning velocity over shipping velocity. WRONG (we guess)!PUSHING BACK (WITHOUT GETTING FIRED): We brainstorm for frameworks to use for challenging speed-obsessed leadership, including trade-off and discuss real-world experiences.Whether you're running a business, a product manager, or a team member just trying to keep up, this episode arms you with arguments and frameworks to advocate for ethical innovation.What's your take on 'move fast' culture? Have you seen it more of a positive or negative?#ProductManagement #TechEthics #AgileLeadershipREFERENCESMove Fast and Break Things by Jonathan Taplin (2017), Careless People: A Cautionary Tale of Power Greed and Lost Idealism by Sarah Wynn Williams, The Lean Startup by Eric Ries (2011), The Fearless Organization by Amy Edmondson (2018), Susan Fowler's blog 'Reflecting on One Very Very Strange Year at Uber' (February 2017), UN Human Rights Council 2018 report on Facebook and Myanmar, Harvard Business School research on always-on cultures (2009), Agile Podcast E22 - Interview with a Scrum Trainer: Fred Mastropasqua (August 2021), Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink, The Social Network (film, 2010)LINKSYouTube https://www.youtube.com/@arguingagileSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/362QvYORmtZRKAeTAE57v3Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/agile-podcast/id1568557596Website: https://arguingagile.com/

In this episode of ThimbleberryU, we explore a fundamental question for professionals in tech: Which type of company is the right fit for your current stage in life and career? Whether it's a startup, a pre-IPO company, or a public corporation, each environment offers its own opportunities, challenges, and financial implications. Jag walks through the trade-offs with Amy Walls of Thimbleberry Financial, breaking down not only what to expect at each stage but also how to make a decision that aligns with our values, personality, and financial goals.We begin by examining the startup world—fast-paced, creative, and filled with uncertainty. It's a space for people who love to experiment and thrive in ambiguity. The upside can be big: ownership, impact, and equity at low initial prices. But the downsides—unpredictable income, fewer benefits, and emotional strain—are just as real. Amy shares stories of clients who initially thrived in startup life but found it incompatible with long-term needs like family time or structured days.Next, we shift to pre-IPO companies, which often represent a middle ground. These firms offer more stability than startups but still retain a sense of mission and momentum. Equity typically comes in the form of RSUs, and while there's real potential for financial gain, it hinges heavily on IPO timing—something employees can't always control. Amy emphasizes the importance of planning for delays, setting aside cash, and staying flexible when managing that equity.Public companies offer clarity and predictability—stable salaries, strong benefits, and slower but more structured growth paths. For professionals seeking balance, or with greater family or financial obligations, this environment often provides the support and stability they need. The culture tends to be more formal, but that predictability can actually empower people to do their best work.Ultimately, the conversation centers around fit—not which company is best, but which is best for us, right now. Personality, financial goals, and life stage all play a role. A startup might make sense early in a career, while a more structured setting could become the right choice later on. Amy reminds us that romanticizing a company type—or even our own preferences—can lead us astray, and encourages getting honest feedback from those who know us best.We wrap by reinforcing that job decisions should balance financial and emotional fit. Before accepting an offer, it's critical to understand the equity structure, total compensation, pace of work, and company culture. Especially in today's tight job market, doing our due diligence can prevent long-term regret and position us to thrive both professionally and personally.00:00 - Intro and Episode Setup  00:49 - Startup Culture: Opportunity vs. Chaos  03:19 - Pre-IPO Companies: Growth with Guardrails  06:08 - Public Companies: Structure and Stability  09:27 - It's About Fit: Personality and Life Stage  11:43 - Culture, Pace, and Real-Life Trade-offs  13:43 - When the Job Market is Tight  14:17 - Takeaways: Equity, Compensation, and Culture  16:44 - How to Connect with Thimbleberry Financial  16:57 - Disclaimer and Wrap-Up    To get in touch with Amy and her team at Thimbleberry Financial, call 503-610-6510 or visit thimbleberryfinancial.com.

Lou Shipley has led multiple startups to breakout growth ($100M+) and major acquisitions to companies like Citrix and Synopsys. He has taught some of the most in-demand sales and GTM courses at HBS and MIT. In this episode, we dig into the core traits behind Unlikely Entrepreneurs — the title of the new book he co-authored — and why unconventional founders so often win through curiosity, ambition, and determination. Lou breaks down “the problem with the problem,” why the sled only moves as fast as the lead dog, and the essential role founders play as keepers of culture. We explore the patterns he's seen across high-growth companies, the misunderstood craft of sales, and what Fortune 500 innovators can learn from Unlikely Entrepreneurs.

After decades of building icons like Tom Ford Beauty, Prada Beauty, and Victoria Beckham Beauty, Sarah Creal stepped into her own spotlight, launching a luxury brand designed for women 40+, a group long overlooked in the beauty industry.In this candid conversation, Sarah shares the dream that sparked her company, the white space she saw in a saturated market, and the intentional choices that caught Sephora's attention. She talks openly about investor pushback (“older women don't want to look at older women”), why she doubled down on herself, and the power of putting her own name on the brand.From packaging that tells a story to building a startup culture rooted in speed and psychological safety, Sarah breaks down the principles guiding her founder journey. She also reflects on lessons from working with icons like Bobbi Brown, and the behind-the-scenes realities of building a differentiated beauty brand in today's competitive landscape.Timestamps: [00:00] Introduction [05:44] The dream that sparked a brand for women 40+ [09:06] How Sephora came calling through long-term relationships [10:53] Using packaging as a storytelling tool in beauty [13:02] Why differentiation is critical in a saturated market [15:05] Lessons from working with iconic beauty founders [17:55] Hiring for startups and ensuring alignment with reality [20:00] Building speed and agility while preventing burnout [23:02] Navigating investor pushback and doubling down on herself [29:20] Daily habits for balance as a founder [31:28] Key advice for aspiring entrepreneursResources Mentioned:Shoe Dog by Phil Knight | Book or AudiobookLearn more about Sarah Creal Beauty on her website, and follow her on LinkedIn and Instagram.Follow Nancy Twine:Instagram: @nancytwinewww.nancytwine.comFollow Makers Mindset:Instagram: @makersmindsetspaceTikTok: @themakersmindsetwww.makersmindset.com

Thanks for listening, and please follow us on Insta @NHPTalent and www.youtube.com/thePOZcastFor all episodes, please check out www.thePOZcast.com  Chapter Breakdown00:00 – Welcome to RecFest Nashville 2025Adam sets the scene at the Juicebox.ai booth and kicks off #thePOZcast live from the field.00:28 – Guest 1: Omar Khateeb – The Power of Authentic Video ContentCEO of JobPixel on why “vibe is everything,” how authenticity wins in 2025, and why creators should stop chasing algorithms.02:24 – Survival Tips for RecFestHydrate, eat before noon, and network smarter — Omar's pro tips for surviving outdoor conferences.03:45 – Guest 2: Allyn Bailey – The Heart of Brand Experience at SmartRecruitersAlynn breaks down how storytelling and connection drive talent strategy post-acquisition — and why she proudly calls herself “the class mom” of HR tech.06:54 – Guest 3: Jamie Leonard – The RecFest Origin & Future VisionThe founder himself on why RecFest feels like summer camp for recruiters, the UK vs. US vibes, and what's next (spoiler: Ferris wheel?).10:50 – Guest 4: Vicky Lou – Inside Juicebox.ai's Series A RocketshipThe founding marketer shares what makes Juicebox's AI sourcing platform different, how startup life fuels creativity, and her secret to building high-performing teams.14:49 – Sticker Drop & Shoutout to Juicebox.aiAdam and Vicky unveil the ultra-rare holographic POZcast sticker and talk sponsor love.16:11 – Guest Panel: Nikki Russell, Dan Lockhart & Chantelle LubingerReal-world TA leaders on quality of slate, giving rejection with empathy, and why “we're humans first.”21:44 – Guest 7: John Ruffini – Old School Recruiting Wisdom Meets New TechThe VP of Professional Development at HealthTrust Workforce Solutions explains why recruiters have gotten lazy, how to bring back urgency, and the lost art of the phone call.28:16 – The AI Debate & Juicebox Agents in ActionAdam and John discuss how to use AI as a tool — not a crutch — and how it frees recruiters for the human side of the job.29:09 – Closing Thoughts: Stay Human, Stay HungryAdam wraps from the field with gratitude, laughter, and the promise that wisdom is forever.

Alex Daniels, Founder and CTO at Predoc, joins the show to share how he is building a mission driven healthtech company that is changing how medical data is accessed and used. He opens up about the personal story that inspired Predoc, how he keeps culture authentic while scaling, and what zero turnover really looks like in a startup. From hiring philosophies to equity design to managing context switching, Alex brings a deeply human view of leadership in engineering.Key Takeaways• Building culture starts with personal connection. Founders who share their why help every new hire connect to mission and meaning.• The best hiring filters are values and networks, not just tech stack alignment.• Predoc's culture formula of high agency, urgency, meritocracy, and transparency keeps turnover at zero.• Equity is not just compensation. It is shared ownership and long term motivation.• Flat structures and super ICs can scale effectively when leaders stay close to the work.Timestamped Highlights[01:30] How a personal loss and a lifelong heart condition inspired Predoc's mission to fix healthcare data[05:20] Inside Predoc's culture formula and why it has helped them retain every hire for three years[09:40] Why core values stay constant but merit evolves as the company grows[13:00] Rethinking equity and risk for early startup employees[15:10] How Predoc combats AI assisted interview cheating and keeps hiring authentic[23:45] Building a flat team structure where directors are still super ICs[30:00] Alex's approach to managing context switching and mental decompressionMemorable Line“We cared about what he cared about and why would he care about what we care about if I don't care about him?”Call to ActionIf you enjoyed this conversation, follow The Tech Trek for more candid talks with founders and tech leaders shaping the future of engineering and culture. Subscribe on Spotify or Apple Podcasts and join the discussion on LinkedIn.

Keywordscybersecurity, technology, AI, IoT, Intel, startups, security culture, talent development, career advice  SummaryIn this episode of No Password Required, host Jack Clabby and Kayleigh Melton engage with Steve Orrin, the federal CTO at Intel, discussing the evolving landscape of cybersecurity, the importance of diverse teams, and the intersection of technology and security. Steve shares insights from his extensive career, including his experiences in the startup scene, the significance of AI and IoT, and the critical blind spots in cybersecurity practices. The conversation also touches on nurturing talent in technology and offers valuable advice for young professionals entering the field.  TakeawaysIoT is now referred to as the Edge in technology.Diverse teams bring unique perspectives and solutions.Experience in cybersecurity is crucial for effective team building.The startup scene in the 90s was vibrant and innovative.Understanding both biology and technology can lead to unique career paths.AI and IoT are integral to modern cybersecurity solutions.Organizations often overlook the importance of security in early project stages.Nurturing talent involves giving them interesting projects and autonomy.Young professionals should understand the hacker mentality to succeed in cybersecurity.Customer feedback is essential for developing effective security solutions.  TitlesThe Edge of Cybersecurity: Insights from Steve OrrinNavigating the Intersection of Technology and Security  Sound bites"IoT is officially called the Edge.""We're making mainframe sexy again.""Surround yourself with people smarter than you."  Chapters00:00 Introduction to Cybersecurity and the Edge01:48 Steve Orrin's Role at Intel04:51 The Evolution of Security Technology09:07 The Startup Scene in the 90s13:00 The Intersection of Biology and Technology15:52 The Importance of AI and IoT20:30 Blind Spots in Cybersecurity25:38 Nurturing Talent in Technology28:57 Advice for Young Cybersecurity Professionals32:10 Lifestyle Polygraph: Fun Questions with Steve

After leading high-impact teams at Uber, Oscar Health, and even the U.S. Department of Treasury, Meghan Joyce stepped out on her own to tackle one of modern life's biggest bottlenecks: the endless “life admin” tasks stealing our time. As co-founder and CEO of Duckbill, she's building a human-first AI assistant that blends machine intelligence with real-world persistence to help people take back control of their days.In this conversation, Meghan shares the kitchen-table moment that sparked Duckbill, what she learned navigating hyper-growth cultures at Uber and Oscar, and why “human-in-the-loop” help is the future of productivity. She opens up about the mindset shift that made her leap from operator to founder, and how motherhood reshaped her leadership and boundaries.From early experiments that de-risked her idea to the values that now guide her team (“high standards, high support”), Meghan breaks down how she built a startup culture that balances speed with empathy. She also offers grounded advice on raising values-aligned capital, using AI without guilt, and redefining success for founders who want both ambition and presence.Timestamps: [00:00] Introduction [02:37] The kitchen moment that sparked Duckbill [05:46] Lessons learned from Uber and Oscar Health [09:02] Why Duckbill blends AI efficiency with human touch [10:28] Knowing when it's time to leap into entrepreneurship [14:43] Early hiring decisions and how her leadership evolved [19:04] Defining company values and keeping them alive [26:17] Finding values-aligned investors and staying mission-driven [32:41] Using AI without guilt and redefining help [43:26] How motherhood reshaped her leadership and boundaries [48:37] Running low-stakes experiments before taking the leap [52:03] Lightning-round personal insights and closing reflectionResources Mentioned:Duckbill | WebsitePersonal History by Katharine Graham | Book or AudiobookFollow Meghan Joyce:Instagram: @meghanvjoyceLinkedIn: @meghanvjoycewww.getduckbill.comFollow Nancy Twine:Instagram: @nancytwinewww.nancytwine.comFollow Makers Mindset:Instagram: @makersmindsetspaceTikTok: @themakersmindsetwww.makersmindset.com

In this episode, we're unpacking the remarkable cultural transformation of Guardian Life, a 165-year old insurance company that's embracing startup thinking to drive innovation. Hear from Erin Culek, Head of Financial Protection and Retirement Solutions at Guardian, as she discusses how combining AI solutions with customer-centric innovation has dramatically improved the company's service delivery, reducing four-week processes to near-instant results. Drawing from her experience leading both strategy and business operations, Culek shares how Guardian's "test and learn" culture combined with Amazon's “two-pizza team” approach is accelerating digital transformation across the enterprise. From fostering a culture of experimentation to implementing transformative AI initiatives, this episode offers essential insights for leaders navigating legacy transformation. Don't miss this inspiring conversation about turning institutional wisdom into competitive advantage through startup thinking.

B.D. Dalton sits down with Steven Puri—a battle-tested entrepreneur who's raised over $21 million, and whose career spans iconic film studios like DreamWorks, 20th Century Fox, and Sony. Steven shares his fascinating journey from being the son of two IBM engineers and a “code monkey” in his teens, to working at the intersection of creativity and technology in Hollywood, to founding the Suka Company—a company devoted to helping people maximize productivity and happiness, especially in our new world of remote work.Together, B.D. and Steven dive into actionable strategies for thriving in hybrid and remote work environments, drawing on lessons from both the film and tech industries. They talk about the importance of deep work and flow states, why company culture and vision can't be outsourced, and how leaders can blend in-person and remote collaboration for maximum creativity and productivity. Steven also opens up about his motivation for starting Suka, the art of timeboxing, and what it really takes to make progress on your biggest goals.Whether you're an entrepreneur, remote team leader, or just craving some inspiration for leveling up your productivity, this episode is packed with practical tips, memorable stories, and a healthy dose of good humor. So tune in for some wisdom, some laughs, and maybe even the permission to finally delete those “fat clothes” from your closet!https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-puri/https://www.thesukha.co/

In this special episode of Book Overflow, Carter and Nathan are joined by Jason Fried, CEO of 37Signals and author of ReWork! Join them as Jason reflects on how to make great products, sticking to your guns, and having the courage to blaze new trails!Get 25% off Tusk AI!https://bit.ly/tusk-bookoverflow-2-- Want to talk with Carter or Nathan? Book a coaching session! ------------------------------------------------------------Carterhttps://www.joinleland.com/coach/carter-m-1Nathanhttps://www.joinleland.com/coach/nathan-t-2-- Books Mentioned in this Episode --Note: As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.----------------------------------------------------------ReWork by Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hanssonhttps://amzn.to/43vgO7T (paid link)----------------00:00 Intro 01:27 Welcome to Jason Fried 01:32 About Rework and the Industry in 2010 07:43 Remote Work 16:16 What Still Resonates 31:39 Making a Dent in the Universe 40:00 Culture is a Moving Average 49:43 Business Media and Startup Culture 53:48 Book Recommendations 59:54 Resources and Closing--------Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5kj6DLCEWR5nHShlSYJI5LApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/book-overflow/id1745257325X: https://x.com/bookoverflowpodCarter on X: https://x.com/cartermorganNathan's Functionally Imperative: www.functionallyimperative.com----------------Book Overflow is a podcast for software engineers, by software engineers dedicated to improving our craft by reading the best technical books in the world. Join Carter Morgan and Nathan Toups as they read and discuss a new technical book each week!The full book schedule and links to every major podcast player can be found at https://www.bookoverflow.io

Melissa Davis is a Foundational Clarity Coach and founder of Humanity Inc., where she helps impact-driven entrepreneurs align their values, unlock clarity, and build meaningful, collaborative businesses. She's also the founder and co-leader of the Collaborative Entrepreneurship Incubator - a playful, trust-led incubator where entrepreneurs reimagine what's possible when they create intentional partnerships for greater individual and collective prosperity, resilience, & impact. Key Moments [04:10] Startup Culture and Vision Divergence [07:44] Discovering Self-Values After Layoff [10:46] Foundational Clarity in Business [14:17] Embrace Collaboration Over Self-Sufficiency [17:56] Entrepreneurial Concerns [22:05] "Incubator Update: LinkedIn Insights" Find Melissa Online https://www.humanityinc.world https://www.humanityinc.world/incubator https://www.humanityinc.world/lab https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-heisley-davis/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-collaborative-entrepreneurship-incubator https://www.instagram.com/collaborate4impact/ If you're enjoying Entrepreneur's Enigma, please give me a review on the podcast directory of your choice. The show is on all of them and these reviews really help others find the show. iTunes: https://gmwd.us/itunes Podchaser: https://gmwd.us/podchaser TrueFans: https://gmwd.us/truefans Also, if you're getting value from the show and want to buy me a coffee, go to the show notes to get the link to get me a coffee to keep me awake, while I work on bringing you more great episodes to your ears. →  https://gmwd.us/buy-me-a-coffee or support me on TrueFans.fm → https://gmwd.us/truefans. Follow Seth Online: Seth | Digital Marketer (@s3th.me) Seth Goldstein | LinkedIn: LinkedIn.com/in/sethmgoldstein Seth On Mastodon: https://indieweb.social/@phillycodehound Seth's Marketing Junto Newsletter: https://MarketingJunto.com Leave The Show A Voicemail: https://voiceline.app/ee Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Tank Talks, we're joined by Michelle Zatlyn, Co-founder, Co-chair, and President of Cloudflare, a company protecting and powering a major part of global internet traffic. Cloudflare helps businesses stay online, load faster, and block threats before they reach the door.Michelle explains how growing up in Saskatchewan shaped her views on leadership and teamwork, and how that experience still guides her as Cloudflare scales. She shares how a hallway conversation at Harvard became the starting point for the business, how they raised their first round of funding without a product, and why they moved to Silicon Valley during a downturn with no connections.She talks through the pressure of going public, the spike in traffic when COVID hit, and how the team responded when customers suddenly needed help keeping their services running. She also walks through Cloudflare's new AI crawler model, how it gives content owners more control, and why a new business model for the web is overdue.From managing billions of attacks a day to helping publishers keep their content protected, Cloudflare shows what it means to stay reliable when the stakes are high, and Michelle makes it clear that good infrastructure only works if people trust it.We explore:* How do you raise money with no product, no revenue, and no connections?* What happens when a hallway idea becomes core infrastructure for the internet?* What changes when your company goes public six months before a global crisis?* Can creators control how AI models use their content?* What can founders do to make their teams more inclusive without making it performative?* Why $100M-to-$1B is more fun than $0-to-$100MThe Canadian Roots and Early Values of a Tech Founder (00:02:36)* Growing up in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan* How cold winters and community spirit shaped her leadership* From science nerd to Silicon Valley co-founderWhy She Left Medicine for Business (00:06:49)* How a summer research job made her rethink med school* Falling into tech through work in Toronto* Applying to Harvard without knowing how to pay for it* The support from Canadian alumni that made it possibleThe Hallway Conversation That Sparked Cloudflare (00:10:50)* A casual remark turns into a business idea* How she and Matthew Prince turned Project Honeypot into a startup* Using their .edu emails to get early help and access* Getting credit for the project instead of taking another classRaising Money With No Traction (00:20:34)* Moving to Silicon Valley in a U-Haul with no connections* Pitching investors with nothing built* Getting $2M on a $4M pre-money valuation* Why the Valley still bets on early-stage founders with clear ideasHiring, Scaling, and Keeping a Startup Culture (00:24:52)* Going from 20 people to over 4,500* Why they still focus on shipping and momentum* How ownership and trust make the difference* Running fast without losing focusGoing Public, Then COVID Hit (00:28:00)* Why they went public when they did* Customers who once said no came running back* What changed when traffic spiked overnight* How customer demand and product pressure collided* Working through the crisis while remote* What Cloudflare learned under fireCloudflare's AI Crawler Controls (00:40:04)* What's happening with AI scraping content* Why Cloudflare built a way to block or license crawlers* The impact on small content creators* How this fits into wider changes to how the web worksDDoS Attacks and Online Threats (00:48:06)* Stopping 190 billion attacks per day* The evolution of DDoS threats in 2025* Why using modern security tools is non-negotiableMichelle's Vision for the Next 15 Years (00:51:18)* Cloudflare as generational infrastructure* Building the most trusted connectivity cloud* Why Internet infrastructure is as vital as plumbingChampioning Women & Diversity in Tech (00:53:27)* Leading by example* Small asks, big impact: improving referral pipelines* Creating space for underrepresented founders and talentCloudflare has grown into critical internet infrastructure, but Michelle talks about it like a work in progress. The problems are large, but they stay focused on solving them one at a time. Her view is practical: strong teams, clear goals, and ongoing effort.About Michelle ZatlynCo-founder, Co-chair & President of CloudflareOne of the most influential leaders in Internet infrastructure, Michelle is a Canadian-born tech executive known for building and scaling Cloudflare into a global powerhouse. A champion for cybersecurity, innovation, and women in tech, she brings passion and grit to every conversation.Connect with Michelle Zatlyn on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellezatlyn/Visit Cloudflare Website: https://www.cloudflare.com/Connect with Matt Cohen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matt-cohen1Visit the Ripple Ventures website: https://www.rippleventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tanktalks.substack.com

Send us a textMarina Morgan, a business psychologist from Silicon Valley with roots in the Soviet space program, shares insights on entrepreneurial mindset, neurophysiology, and resilience in today's rapidly changing business landscape.• Understanding how your physiological condition impacts business decision-making• The power of maintaining low expectations while pursuing ambitious goals• How to separate market analysis from emotional comparison with competitors• Why entrepreneurial identity can become limiting as businesses scale• The neurophysiological connection between enjoyment and effective decision-making• Practical strategies for maintaining resilience through proper sleep, nutrition, and stress management• How AI integration is changing our relationship with professional identity• The importance of making decisions based on enjoyment rather than strict logicConnect with Marina at themorganimpact.com for a free strategic clarity session where she can help analyze your current position and desired outcomes while suggesting paths you might not have considered before.Support the showThanks for listening & being part of the Mindset Cafe Community.----------------------------------------------Connect With Devan:https://www.devangonzalez.com/connect----------------------------------------------Follow On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/devan.gonzalez/https://www.instagram.com/mindsetcafepodcastLet me know what topics or questions you want covered so we can help you achieve your goals faster.----------------------------------------------P.S. If you're not already a part of the The Mindset Cafe Community Page I would love to have you be a part of the community, and spread your amazing knowledge. The page is to connect and network with other like minded people networking and furthering each other on our journeys!https://www.facebook.com/groups/themindsetcafe/

“Culture matters because people matter." —Jay Doran   Is your company culture silently working against you? You can have the best strategy, a killer product, and all the right hires—but if your culture is off, everything feels harder than it should be. You can't fake a healthy work environment, and deep down, your team knows when things feel transactional, unsafe, or hollow. If you've ever wondered why great people leave or why momentum stalls even when the numbers look good, this episode will hit home. Jay Doran is a culture consultant, speaker, and founder of Culture Matters. He's spent over a decade studying the invisible forces that shape how people show up, lead, and build inside organizations. From interviewing thought leaders to coaching companies on their “cultural DNA,” Jay brings a sharp lens and real-world insight into what it actually takes to create an environment where people thrive—and why most leaders get it wrong. Ready to find out what your business feels like from the inside out? Hit play for a raw, eye-opening convo on hiring misfires, founder blind spots, team trust issues, leadership energy, and why "culture" is way more than values on a wall.   Be Inspired! with Daniel:  Website (Makings of a Millionaire Mindset) Website (Daniel Gomez Global) Facebook Facebook Group X Instagram LinkedIn Pinterest YouTube Episode Highlights: 02:58 From Anxiety to Action 07:27 The Importance of Writing Down Goals 12:52 The Role of Culture in Business  17:22 Culture Starts from the Top 22:06 The Impact of Adversity on Leadership 33:03 The Role of Purpose in Business  40:19 The Role of Exposure in Growth 45:19 Life is About Experiencing It  

Timestamps:5:11 - Hire your first 15-25 employees super carefully10:35 - Incentives and ownership in company culture15:28 - What can Switzerland learn from the US?Click here to order your copy of “Swiss Startups” today.About Victoria Ransom:⁠Victoria Ransom⁠ is the co-founder of Wildfire, a social marketing software-as-a-service company which was acquired by Google, and of ⁠Prisma⁠, a global virtual school (grades 4-12). She holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and worked as a Financial Analyst at Morgan Stanley before co-founding Access Trips, the travel startup that led her to creating Wildfire.During her chat with Silvan, Victoria reflected back on the values which sustained Wildfire and which drive Prisma nowadays. She highlighted the importance of hiring your first 15-25 employees extremely carefully, as these people will set the tone for future hires. She also emphasized the competitive advantage that a strong company culture can bring, since execution often matters more for success than merely having a great business idea.Victoria argued that incentives like bonuses should complement but never replace a strong culture, and she encouraged Swiss entrepreneurs to learn from their American counterparts: it never pays off to be too humble.The cover portrait was edited by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.smartportrait.io⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.‍Don't forget to give us a follow on⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Linkedin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠Youtube ⁠⁠so you can always stay up to date with our latest initiatives. That way, there's no excuse for missing out on live shows, weekly giveaways or founders' dinners.

Dan Berger led Social Tables through a $100M exit and now he's focused on something even harder to build: belonging. In this vulnerable conversation, he shares what most leaders miss about culture, how his board almost ousted him due to a toxic exec hire, and why belonging should be treated as a leadership choice — not an HR initiative. He also unpacks why rituals matter, why alcohol doesn't belong in team settings, and what founders can learn from AA meetings about structure, vulnerability, and connection. We also get into his latest venture, Assemble Hospitality Group, a new asset class of “micro resorts” designed for team offsites and retreats. Dan breaks down the mechanics of retreat design, conscious exclusivity, and how different team members — from introverts to eager belongers — need different paths to feel seen and connected. If your company is hybrid, remote, or just feeling disconnected, this episode offers sharp, practical insight to get back on track. Unlock the full potential of your product team with Integral's player coaches, experts in lean, human-centered design. Visit integral.io/convergence for a free Product Success Lab workshop to gain clarity and confidence in tackling any product design or engineering challenge. Inside the episode Why belonging is more strategic than DEI The definition of belonging (and why it's a sense, not a feeling) Dan's concept of “conscious exclusivity” and why it matters for leaders What to do when a board pushes exec hires that don't fit your culture How to communicate emotion and intuition as a founder What Alcoholics Anonymous teaches us about structure and ritual How to design team retreats with different belonging personas in mind Why alcohol doesn't belong in work events When to prioritize shared learning over shared office space Mentioned in this episode belongingquest.com/quiz – Belonging Archetype Quiz Belonging Archetypes: Chimpanzees, Meerkats, Jaguars, Wolves The Quest by Dan Berger Assemble Hospitality Group danjberger.com Home Assistant Granola (screen recorder) Atio (CRM) Clay (prospecting tool) Obama's “Team of Rivals” Cabinet Unlock the full potential of your product team with Integral's player coaches, experts in lean, human-centered design. Visit integral.io/convergence for a free Product Success Lab workshop to gain clarity and confidence in tackling any product design or engineering challenge. Subscribe to the Convergence podcast wherever you get podcasts including video episodes to get updated on the other crucial conversations that we'll post on YouTube at youtube.com/@convergencefmpodcast Learn something? Give us a 5 star review and like the podcast on YouTube. It's how we grow.   Follow the Pod Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/convergence-podcast/ X: https://twitter.com/podconvergence Instagram: @podconvergence

In this episode, David Hirshfeld, founder and CEO of Tekyz, shares practical insights on leadership, culture, and what distinguishes successful ventures from those that fail. He reflects on lessons from his own entrepreneurial journey, including both a successful exit and a company that didn't make it.

I share a recent breakthrough in my entrepreneurial journey with Podsqueeze. After experimenting with various marketing strategies, I discovered the power of targeted press releases. Initially, I struggled with traditional PR methods, but I found success by reaching out to niche podcasting newsletters. This approach not only increased our visibility but also connected us directly with our target audience. I emphasize the importance of finding your niche and leveraging industry-specific channels for effective outreach. Tune in to learn how to apply these insights to your own projects!Timestamps by PodSqueezeIntroduction and Podcast Promotion (00:00:07)Early Perceptions of Entrepreneurship (00:01:12)First Tech Job and Startup Culture (00:02:25)Discovering Bootstrapping vs. VC Startups (00:04:48)Growth Plateau and Entrepreneurial Skills (00:05:57)Defining Startups vs. Businesses (00:07:00)Learning Marketing Channels (00:08:02)Initial Attempts at PR and Press Releases (00:09:16)Press Release Agencies and Fiverr Experience (00:11:31)Understanding Press Release Feeds (00:13:48)Breakthrough with Niche Newsletters (00:16:53)Success with Newsletter Outreach (00:18:57)Key Lesson: Go Niche for PR (00:21:16)Closing and Call to Action (00:22:18)Here are the mentions with timestamps arranged by topic:Tools and Websites"Twitter": "00:00:07""Fiverr": "00:11:31""Reddit": "00:17:57""Yahoo": "00:14:54""MSN": "00:14:54""Google": "00:08:02"Concepts and Terms"Press Releases": "00:09:16""SEO (Search Engine Optimization)": "00:08:02""Backlinks": "00:09:16""Cold Emails": "00:08:02""Niche Marketing": "00:21:16"Notable Mentions"Podsqueeze": "00:05:57""ChatGPT": "00:16:53""Peter Levels": "00:04:48"Summary of Key Points"The importance of finding niche newsletters for press releases": "00:21:16""The difference between startups and bootstrapping businesses": "00:07:00""The realization of using press releases effectively within the podcasting community": "00:18:57"

In this episode, Carlos Gonzalez de Villaumbrosia interviews Glen Coates, Vice President of Product at Shopify.Shopify is one of the world's leading commerce platforms, powering millions of businesses and helping entrepreneurs sell online and offline with ease. Since launching in 2006, it has become a global e-commerce giant and the second-largest online retailer in the U.S., with over $8 billion in annual revenue and 8,000+ employees working fully remotely.Glen leads Shopify's Core Product organization, overseeing the storefront, checkout, back office, marketing, analytics tools, and the core developer platform. He also drives Shopify's thriving partner ecosystem, which offers merchants access to over 10,000 apps. From video game developer to B2B ecommerce founder to product leader at scale, Glen brings a rare blend of technical depth and entrepreneurial vision.In this episode, he shares how his unconventional path shaped his approach to product leadership, the principles behind Shopify's fast-moving strategy, and how the company stays ahead with AI and deep product focus. He also explains his org design for scale, why every product leader must “know everything down to the details,” and how the team keeps the experience polished with the “Boring Edition.”What you'll learn:-Glen's journey from game development to leading Shopify's core platform.- How Shopify's viral “AI memo” raised the bar for PMs and engineers to build faster.- The Outcomes, Assumptions & Principles framework behind better product decisions.- Why focusing on fundamentals keeps Shopify nimble and merchants competitive.Key Takeaways

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we speak with Alexander Nicolaus, Chief People Officer at Paysend and author of Startup Culture, about how to intentionally design company culture as you scale. Alex shares how his global career shaped his approach to building high-performing teams, why behavior-based hiring beats resumes, and how Paysend is scaling to a billion-dollar business with a lean team. He unpacks how founders can embed values from day one, use clear behaviors to drive performance, and avoid retrofitting culture after growth creates dysfunction.

Legendary technologist and investor Bill Tai joins our latest episode for a wide-ranging conversation spanning decades of Silicon Valley innovation. Bill shares his remarkable journey from being employee #1 at TSMC to becoming one of the first seed investors in Zoom and Canva, and his early embrace of Bitcoin when it was priced at just 7 cents.The conversation explores Bill's unique investment philosophy shaped by mentorship from Don Valentine of Sequoia Capital, his innovative approach to building entrepreneurial communities through kiteboarding, and his insights into the intersection of AI, energy infrastructure, and cryptocurrency. Bill discusses the massive energy crisis facing AI data centers, drawing parallels to the telecom infrastructure buildout of the 1980s.From his early days as a kid reverse-engineering electronics to his current role as Chairman of Hut Eight Mining and his partnership with the Trump organization on American Bitcoin Corp, Bill provides invaluable insights into recognizing structural market changes and backing the right entrepreneurs and emerging technologies at the right time.LinksLearn more about Bill's blockchain companies Hut Eight Mining and BITFURY - Hut 8 Corp, BITFURYBill's original tweet from 2010 about the potential of bitcoin: https://www.instagram.com/p/Bb7QQ8GHN12/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D Read Bill's founding stories on Zoom and Canva: https://medium.com/@billtai/30b-stress-test-on-necker-island-814553c7f520Bill's early memo detailing his conviction about Zoom's technology: https://www.instagram.com/p/BwcaZjFpNrs/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ== Article: Design start-up Canva raises $3 million after kitesurfing in Hawaii: https://www.smartcompany.com.au/startupsmart/design-start-up-canva-raises-3-million-after-kitesurfing-in-hawaii Canva now tops the list of most popular AI tools: https://explodingtopics.com/blog/most-popular-ai-tools Learn about TSMC's history - Taiwan SemiconductorRead the article that changed Bill's life - Secrets of the Little Blue BoxMore fun items mentioned during the discussion2600 Hacker Quarterly: https://www.2600.com/The Cap'N Crunch whistle used by early hackers: https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/capn-crunch-whistleThe Radio Shack 100-in-one electronics kit: https://www.rcgrabbag.com/radio-shack-100-in-1-electronic-project-kit/

In this episode, Carlos Gonzalez de Villaumbrosia sits down with Ariel Ban, President of Technology at Warner Music Group, live from the ProductCon stage. Warner Music Group, home to some of the world's most iconic artists, is undergoing a bold transformation under Ariel's leadership. A former Google and YouTube executive, Ariel brings a startup mindset to a 900-person organization within one of the most tradition-rich industries: music.In this conversation, Ariel shares his unfiltered approach to digital transformation—from replacing bloated MVP culture with his “Minimum Proud Product” philosophy to building real-time dashboards that empower artists with actionable data. He also dives into the infamous “3-sh***ts” framework he uses to evaluate product managers, and how he's instilling a culture of trust, ownership, and creativity across a global tech org.What you'll learn:- Ariel's journey from big tech to the music industry and his unique take on what transformation really looks like.- Why MVPs are a “disease” and how to build products artists and fans are proud of.- The strategy behind launching artist-facing tools like real-time revenue dashboards.- How Warner Music is leveraging AI to unlock value in a highly creative, fast-changing space.Key Takeaways

Episode 56 – Your Bad Intentions Are Killing Your StartupWelcome back to the Career Coaching Xs and Os podcast—the show where we uncover the strategies, challenges, and breakthroughs that shape meaningful career success. In this episode, we dive into a compelling coaching session with the founder of a cutting-edge fintech startup facing a leadership crisis. After missing a critical launch deadline due to a compliance failure, the founder took swift and severe action—demoting the Compliance Officer, revoking some of his founder shares, and resorting to verbal beratement. This pattern of high-pressure leadership had begun affecting the entire executive team, pushing them toward burnout and creating a culture teetering on the edge of sabotage. Recognizing the urgent need for a reset, the founder scheduled a coaching session with me. What advice did I offer? How do you turn a failing leadership dynamic into a thriving, high-performance culture? Stay tuned as I break down the insights, strategies, and mindset shifts that could change the course of this startup—and maybe even your own leadership approach. If you enjoy this podcast, we'd love your support! Subscribe, leave a comment on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, or your favorite platform. To become a Loyal Listener on Spreaker.com, visit us on the Spreaker platform.******************Want To Co-host An Episode of Career Coaching Xs and Os? If you want to be entered into a drawing where the winner(s) are offered the opportunity to co-host the Career Coaching Xs and Os podcast, please do the following:  Buy My Book - Career Coaching Xs and Os: How to Master the Game of Career Development from Amazon - https://a.co/d/f7irTMLWrite a review for my book on Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/review/create-review/?ie=UTF8&channel=glance-detail&asin=B0CXMM24R1Follow me on one of the following social media platforms:                    X.com       -    @ceyeroconsltg                  Instagram -    @ceyeroconsulting                   Facebook  -    @ceyeroconsulting    Post a message on one of the Social Media platforms above stating that you submitted a review on Amazon. We will randomly select the winner(s) from the list of reviewers on August 31, 2024.                                                                           **************Want to improve your negotiation skills? Take the 100 Days of Rejection Therapy Challenge. The goal of the 100 Days of Rejection Therapy Challenge is to desensitize yourself to the pain of rejection and to overcome fear. Check out the website at https://www.rejectiontherapy.com/100-days-of-rejection-therapy. I took several challenges. Click the links to see if I got rejected during my negotiations: (1) Rejection 7: Speak Over Costco's Intercom - https://youtu.be/AycKKgP21fQ (2) Rejection 43: Hug a Walmart Greeter - https://youtu.be/GSjyly_C8pM    Subscribe to Ceyero Consulting's YouTube Channel. Track my progress as I complete all 100Challenges.https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7lxMSEtBOAgNBOPrmA9O_w   Need help launching your startup or small business? Please check out my book, #Guerrillapreneur: Small Business Strategy for Davids Wanting to Defeat Goliath, available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Apple Books.  If you like the Career Coaching Xs and Os podcast, you might also like my other business podcasts, #Guerrillapreneur: The Art of Waging Small Business Warfare (Mastermind Interviews with Entrepreneurs, Consultants, and Business Mavericks) and #Gigging: Everything and Sharing Economy (news and predictions about the Sharing Economy).Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/career-coaching-xs-and-os--3047801/support.

In this episode, Carlos Gonzalez de Villaumbrosia interviews Manuel Bronstein, Chief Product Officer at Roblox. Roblox is not just a video game—it's a platform that enables people to play, create, and build businesses in immersive virtual worlds. With over 85 million daily active users growing at 20% year-over-year, Roblox has paid out more than $923 million to its creator community in 2024 alone.Manuel brings extensive experience from leading roles at major tech platforms including Xbox, Zynga, YouTube, and Google Assistant. As Roblox's CPO, he oversees the platform's product strategy and development, focusing on creating tools and systems that empower creators while maintaining trust and safety at scale.In this episode, we'll explore:- The evolution of Roblox from gaming platform to virtual economy- How Roblox manages its creator marketplace and virtual economy- Manuel's product leadership principles and frameworks- Strategies for maintaining startup culture while scaling- The future of virtual worlds and immersive platformsChapters:(00:00)

keywordscybersecurity, leadership, startups, failure, vendor trust, HACKERverse, communication, investment, innovation, beginner's mindset, job search, LinkedIn, networking, AI, personal branding, cybersecurity, lifestyle polygraph, superheroes, career advice, mentorshipsummaryIn this episode of No Password Required, host Jack Clabby and co-host Kaylee Melton engage in a thought-provoking conversation with Mariana Padilla, co-founder and CEO of HACKERverse.AI. The discussion revolves around the importance of embracing failure as a learning opportunity, the role of leadership in fostering a positive work environment, and the challenges faced in the cybersecurity vendor landscape. Mariana shares her insights on the need for better communication in the industry and the importance of a beginner's mindset in driving innovation. The conversation also touches on the future of investment in cybersecurity and the necessity of rebuilding trust within the industry. In this engaging conversation, Mariana discusses the challenges of job searching in the current landscape dominated by AI and the importance of networking and personal branding. She emphasizes that building trust and connections is crucial in the cybersecurity field. The discussion transitions into a fun segment called the lifestyle polygraph, where Mariana shares her thoughts on superheroes and their relevance to personal and professional growth. The episode concludes with Mariana providing insights on how to connect with her and her work.takeawaysEmbracing failure is crucial for personal and professional growth.Leadership should focus on transparency and learning from mistakes.A beginner's mindset can lead to innovative solutions in cybersecurity.The cybersecurity industry struggles with communication and trust.Venture capital influences the direction of cybersecurity startups.Sustainable business practices are essential for long-term success.The sales process in cybersecurity needs to be more efficient.Understanding vendor interoperability is critical for security.Cybersecurity vendors must demonstrate product viability effectively.The industry must evolve to meet the rapid pace of technological change. You're competing against AI for some of these jobs.Networking is so, so, so important.The online application system has been dying for quite some time.Your personal brand matters and you have to have one.Conferences are a prime opportunity to peacock a little bit.Batman has real feelings and real demons.The correct answer is Star Trek.Margot Robbie, I really like her.You're on the fantasy cybersecurity squad.Come follow me on LinkedIn for lots of shenanigans.titlesEmbracing Failure in CybersecurityThe Importance of Leadership in StartupsInnovating with a Beginner's MindsetHACKERverse: Revolutionizing CybersecuritySound Bites"It's all about leadership and leading by example.""I think we have a gap here.""We should focus on sustainably built businesses.""It's just a bunch of nonsense.""Networking is so, so, so important.""Batman has real feelings and real demons.""The correct answer is Star Trek.""Margot Robbie, I really like her.""You're on the fantasy cybersecurity squad."Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Cybersecurity Conversations02:00 Embracing Failure as a Learning Opportunity06:02 The Role of Leadership in Startups09:00 The Value of a Beginner's Mindset11:58 Understanding HACKERverse's Mission13:59 Challenges in the Cybersecurity Vendor Landscape17:08 Shaking Up the Status Quo in Cybersecurity21:52 The Future of Investment in Cybersecurity24:36 Navigating Job Searches in the Age of AI29:35 The Importance of Personal Branding30:23 Lifestyle Polygraph: Fun and Games39:05 Superheroes and Their Lessons43:45 Connecting with Mariana: Final Thoughts

Competition, growth, tariffs, hacks, AI – what does it take to be an effective leader today? John Chambers, former CEO and Executive Chairman of Cisco and founder of JC2 Ventures, joins TechSurge host Sriram Viswanathan to share valuable wisdom on leading and growing businesses through times of significant change. As a leader who has transitioned from the c-suite to venture capital and now mentoring founders in emerging technology sectors, John has seen it all. He shares lessons from his time leading one of the world's most influential networking companies at Cisco (the most valuable company in the world at the time), revealing what he learned while growing it from a challenger networking company into a $50 billion tech powerhouse, sharing how Cisco achieved and maintained its market leadership, particularly his bold M&A strategies. John offers hard‑won insights on navigating major technology shifts in AI, cloud, security, and more. Today's founders and executives will find practical frameworks, real‑world war stories, and counterintuitive advice to help survive and thrive in an era of continual disruption. If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Sign up for our newsletter at techsurgepodcast.com for exclusive insights and updates on upcoming TechSurge Live Summits.Links:Explore John Chambers' family office and venture firm at JC2 VenturesRead John Chambers' book “Connecting the Dots” on AmazonDiscover the organization John chaired for eight years US-India Strategic Partnership ForumLearn about the company John and Sriram have invested in together at ParkourSCFind out about the deep fake detection company Pin DropLearn about the cybersecurity company Rubrik

In this episode of the Vanderbloemen Leadership Podcast, Jared sits down with William Vanderbloemen, to talk about what it really means to build a team from level zero. From working off a card table with just his dog for company to leading a thriving business, William shares humorous stories, hard-earned lessons, and practical advice for leaders who are building their dream team—especially in the early stages. Key discussion points include: Level Zero Leadership: Why you don't need to look like a big organization to make a big impact—and how being small can be your biggest strength. Hiring Your First Team Members: The risks, mistakes, and mindset shifts leaders need to navigate when making their first few hires. Trust vs. Talent: Why hiring only people you “know” can backfire—and how to balance familiarity with fit. The Danger of Too Much You: How self-awareness and diversity of thought create healthy, high-functioning teams. Slow to Hire, Quick to Fire: Why rushing the hiring process is the number one mistake leaders make—and how to slow down without losing momentum. Whether you're planting a church, launching a business, or leading a growing team, this episode will help you think more clearly about building culture, managing risk, and making the right hires from the start. Resources Follow William on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wvanderbloemen/ Follow Vanderbloemen on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vanderbloemen/

Segment 1 with Lisa Greene-Lewis at 0.00.It's the scariest time of year for small business owners- no not Halloween, its tax time- March 15th for businesses and April 15th for everyone personally. Why is it so scary for so many small businesses owners and what we all need to know.Lisa Greene-Lewis is a CPA and tax expert for TurboTax. Lisa has over 20 years of experience in tax preparation and breaking down tax laws. She has contributed tax articles to local, national, and online publications, including US News & World Report and Huffington Post.  Lisa has also appeared on news broadcast, the Steve Harvey Show, and the Ellen Show.Segment 2 with Ashwin Gulati at 14:49.if you have every started a business, it's like a life and death experience; not only for the company but also for the founder.Ashwin Gulati is the author of: "Soul Venture: A True Life and Death Journey into the Startup Culture". He and wrote a tell-all that dismantles the myths, ambitions, and harsh realities of the riskiest culture in business. He has launched international ventures, helped start-ups take off or land, and copiloted complex transitions for over 100 companies in various industries in the UK, US, Spain, and France. With 30 years in the trenches, he has identified the hidden pitfalls, unspoken truths, and personal twists that ultimately determine a venture's success or failure.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-small-business-radio-show--3306444/support.

➡️ Like The Podcast? Leave A Rating: https://ratethispodcast.com/successstory  In this Lessons episode, David Hauser, startup culture architect and entrepreneur behind a $175M exit, shares how core values drive success in both business and life. Learn how mindfulness and extreme focus can be a superpower for entrepreneurs, why high-achievers often take an all-or-nothing approach, and how to channel that intensity productively. Discover how yoga and meditation can enhance decision-making, clarity, and resilience, and gain insights into the biggest mistakes founders make when scaling a business.➡️ Show Linkshttps://successstorypodcast.com  YouTube: https://youtu.be/OLb4X0WUuRcApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/david-hauser-entrepreneur-author-speaker-investor-how/id1484783544Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6sKQCEUuGs3psLP8GBmhc4➡️ Watch the Podcast On Youtubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/scottdclary

We dig into the Rails 8 Solid Trifecta, our thoughts on why fewer developers are taking jobs at startups, and a new buzzphrase: Framework Fatigue.

Highlights from their conversation include:CCR's Background and Journey to FleetPulse (0:41)FleetPulse Overview (1:19)Trailer Telematics Industry Primer (4:41)Technological Advancements in Trailers (5:10)The Rise of Cargo Theft (7:50)Understanding Trailer Neglect (8:18)Impact of Cargo Theft Trends (10:07)Value of Smart Trailers (12:31)Case Study on FleetPulse Benefits (14:48)  Safety Concerns in US-Mexico Trade (18:07)Establishing a Startup Culture (23:15)Investor Expectations in Industrial Tech (26:07)Hiring at Fleet Pulse (29:13)Supply Chain Prediction for 2025 (30:11)Coaching and Mentoring Approach and Final Thoughts (30:55)Dynamo is a VC firm led by supply chain and mobility specialists that focus on seed-stage, enterprise startups.Find out more at: https://www.dynamo.vc/

One key to achieving entrepreneurial success is clearly defining and articulating the win both personally and professionally. In this episode from 2021, Sangram Vajre and I discuss six must-have elements to help you define your wins and create a successful organization. The Andy Stanley Leadership Podcast is one of Forbes' 6 Leadership Podcasts To Listen To In 2024 and one of the Best Leadership Podcasts To Stay in the Know for CEOs, according to Industry Leader Magazine. If this podcast has made you a better leader, you can help it by leaving a quick Spotify or Apple Podcasts review. You can visit Spotify or Apple Podcasts, and then go to the “Reviews” section. Thank you for sharing! ____________ Where to find Andy: Instagram: @andy_stanley Facebook: Andy Stanley Official X: @andystanley YouTube: @AndyStanleyOfficial Website: andystanley.com  Where to find Sangram: Instagram: @sangramvajre See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.