Podcasts about tech startups

In this episode of Tank Talks, Matt Cohen and John Ruffolo dive into Canada's bold new defence industrial strategy, backed by $6.6 billion to reduce U.S. dependency and prioritize domestic tech suppliers. They discuss the challenges of defining a “Canadian” company and whether the strategy has the right balance of government procurement and private sector support to succeed. The conversation also explores how AI, quantum, and other emerging technologies fit into Canada's national defence vision and what it means for the future of innovation.The episode also tackles the disruption facing vertical SaaS industries from large language models (LLMs) and AI. Are these technologies a threat to traditional SaaS business models, or do they create new opportunities for growth? Matt and John share their insights on navigating the evolving tech landscape, including the implications for investors and companies, and explore the recent leadership change at Telus and what it could mean for Canada's tech ecosystem.Tune in to hear how these seismic shifts will impact tech, investment, and business strategies in the coming years.Canada's New Defence Industrial Strategy (00:34)Prime Minister Mark Carney's announcement of Canada's first-ever defence industrial strategy (DIS) aims to reduce the country's dependency on U.S. suppliers. Matt and John break down the key components of the new strategy, its emphasis on domestic procurement, and the challenges in defining what constitutes a “Canadian” company.Sovereignty and Economic Policy (02:00)John Ruffolo sheds light on how the integration of national security, economic policy, and procurement is essential for a sovereign tech strategy. They discuss how Canada can avoid the pitfalls of previous initiatives like the Supercluster strategy by ensuring that small businesses can grow into global players.Canadian Government as a Catalyst for Tech Startups (05:02)Matt and John explore the role government-backed procurement and industrial strategy play in supporting Canadian startups, especially in AI, quantum computing, and clean energy. Will these policies level the playing field for domestic companies competing against their U.S. counterparts?Investment Strategies in Dual-Use Technologies (07:34)With dual-use technologies taking center stage, John discusses the investment opportunities in AI, photonics, quantum space, and more. What challenges do investors face when funding Canadian companies, and how can government support help them scale internationally?The Changing Face of Vertical SaaS (10:24)The discussion shifts to the evolution of vertical SaaS as AI-native companies begin to challenge longstanding industry moats. John and Matt debate whether large language models (LLMs) are eroding the traditional SaaS model and what it means for investors.Evaluating SaaS Companies in the Age of LLMs (13:29)As the market for SaaS companies evolves, Matt and John explore the risks of overvaluing growth at the expense of unit economics and profitability. They share tips for evaluating SaaS companies and distinguishing between real opportunities and the false positives that emerge during market shifts.The Future of Telus and Leadership Transition (21:23)The episode concludes with a fascinating discussion about Telus' leadership transition, as Victor Dodig takes over from Darren Entwistle. John and Matt analyze what this shift means for Telus' future strategy, especially in the context of the changing telecom landscape and the growing importance of data and communications in space.Connect with John Ruffolo on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/joruffoloConnect 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

Fluent Fiction - Dutch: Tech Triumph: How a Power Outage Sparked Johan's Success Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/nl/episode/2026-02-20-23-34-02-nl Story Transcript:Nl: In het hart van de "Silicon Canals", de bruisende tech-hub van Amsterdam, stond een modern, chic co-working space.En: In the heart of the "Silicon Canals", the bustling tech hub of Amsterdam, stood a modern, chic co-working space.Nl: Buiten was het winter, en de grachten waren bedekt met een dun laagje ijs.En: Outside it was winter, and the canals were covered with a thin layer of ice.Nl: Binnen heerste een drukke sfeer.En: Inside, there was a busy atmosphere.Nl: Overal zaten jonge ondernemers met laptops, gefocust op hun dromen.En: Everywhere, young entrepreneurs sat with laptops, focused on their dreams.Nl: Johan stond op het punt zijn grote presentatie te geven.En: Johan was about to give his big presentation.Nl: Hij was een ambitieuze tech-ondernemer, die een startup had opgericht met een revolutionair idee.En: He was an ambitious tech entrepreneur who had founded a startup with a revolutionary idea.Nl: Maar diep van binnen had Johan een angst voor falen.En: But deep inside, Johan had a fear of failing.Nl: Vandaag zou hij voor een belangrijke groep investeerders spreken, en hij wilde niets liever dan indruk op hen maken.En: Today he would speak before an important group of investors, and he wanted nothing more than to impress them.Nl: Naast hem zaten zijn collega's, Sanne en Martijn.En: Next to him were his colleagues, Sanne and Martijn.Nl: Zij hielpen hem met de voorbereiding.En: They were helping him with the preparation.Nl: "Adem in, adem uit," zei Sanne glimlachend.En: "Breathe in, breathe out," said Sanne with a smile.Nl: "Je doet het geweldig."En: "You're doing great."Nl: De presentatiezaal was gevuld.En: The presentation room was filled.Nl: De investeerders keken geïnteresseerd, hun pennen en notitieblokken gereed.En: The investors looked interested, their pens and notepads ready.Nl: Johan zette zijn laptop aan en ademde diep.En: Johan turned on his laptop and took a deep breath.Nl: Maar net toen hij de eerste dia wilde laten zien, ging het licht uit.En: But just as he was about to show the first slide, the lights went out.Nl: Een stroomstoring.En: A power outage.Nl: Een golf van paniek ging door de zaal.En: A wave of panic went through the room.Nl: Maar Johan wist dat dit zijn moment was.En: But Johan knew this was his moment.Nl: Hij besloot om zonder technologie verder te gaan.En: He decided to proceed without technology.Nl: "Dames en heren," begon hij.En: "Ladies and gentlemen," he began.Nl: Zijn stem was eerst zacht, maar werd steeds sterker.En: His voice was initially soft but grew stronger.Nl: "Ik wil mijn verhaal met jullie delen."En: "I want to share my story with you."Nl: Johan vertelde over zijn jeugd en zijn passie voor technologie.En: Johan talked about his childhood and his passion for technology.Nl: Hij sprak over de missie van zijn startup en hoe deze de wereld zou verbeteren.En: He spoke about the mission of his startup and how it would improve the world.Nl: Zijn woorden kwamen recht uit zijn hart, en elke zin droeg zijn oprechte enthousiasme over.En: His words came straight from his heart, and every sentence conveyed his genuine enthusiasm.Nl: De investeerders luisterden geboeid.En: The investors listened captivated.Nl: Ze zagen het vuur in zijn ogen en de passie in zijn stem.En: They saw the fire in his eyes and the passion in his voice.Nl: Zelfs zonder dia's en grafieken wist Johan hen te raken.En: Even without slides and graphs, Johan managed to touch them.Nl: Net toen Johan klaar was met zijn verhaal, floepte het licht weer aan.En: Just as Johan finished his story, the lights came back on.Nl: De zaal was stil.En: The room was silent.Nl: Johan keek om zich heen en zag bewondering in de ogen van de investeerders.En: Johan looked around and saw admiration in the eyes of the investors.Nl: Met een gevoel van opluchting en trots realiseerde Johan zich dat hij iets belangrijks had geleerd.En: With a feeling of relief and pride, Johan realized he had learned something important.Nl: Hij had niet alleen hun interesse gewonnen zonder technologie, maar ook zijn eigen angst voor publiekspreken overwonnen.En: Not only had he captured their interest without technology, but he had also conquered his own fear of public speaking.Nl: Bij de uitgang klopte Sanne hem op zijn schouder.En: At the exit, Sanne patted him on the shoulder.Nl: "Je hebt ze overtuigd," zei ze trots.En: "You convinced them," she said proudly.Nl: Buiten viel de eerste sneeuwvlok.En: Outside, the first snowflake fell.Nl: Johan keek naar de glinsterende grachten en wist dat dit slechts het begin was van iets groots.En: Johan looked at the glistening canals and knew that this was just the beginning of something big.Nl: Vandaag had hij meer dan alleen investeringen gewonnen; hij had vertrouwen in zichzelf gevonden.En: Today he had won more than just investments; he had found confidence in himself. Vocabulary Words:hub: hubwinter: winterice: ijsambitious: ambitieuzerevolutionary: revolutionairfailing: faleninvestors: investeerderscolleagues: collega'spreparation: voorbereidingsmile: glimlachendpresentation: presentatieoutage: stroomstoringpanic: paniekLadies and gentlemen: Dames en herenchildhood: jeugdmission: missieenthusiasm: enthousiasmecaptivated: geboeidslide: diagraphs: grafiekenadmiration: bewonderingpride: trotsfear: angstpublic speaking: publieksprekenconvinced: overtuigdsnowflake: sneeuwvlokglistening: glinsterendeconfidence: vertrouwenbeginning: beginimpress: indruk maken

This week Adam speaks with Ben Siegel, the Co-Founder and CEO of Abode, a modern early-career platform built for Gen Z. Ben has steered the company since its inception during his college years. Under his leadership, Abode has partnered with major corporations such as Fidelity and Amazon, positioning itself as an essential operating system for early career programs. Ben successfully raised over $5 million in venture capital and ultimately sold Abode to 10,000 Coffees in 2025. In this episode, he shares insights from Abode's evolution, the decision to sell but still lead, and the role of AI in early career hiring, plus his biggest lesson on the importance of consultative selling with customer-centric storytelling.Listen now on: Amazon Music (Alexa) | Spotify | Apple Podcasts or wherever you get podcasts!Connect with hosts Adam and Chris and the Range VC team on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/range-ventures/Check out more about what we're up to at Range.vc See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Most startup pain doesn't come from product; it comes from people. In this episode, Lisa Novak, Founder of LMNHR, pulls back the curtain on the most common HR and culture mistakes she's seen across high-growth tech companies, and how to fix them before they derail momentum.Lisa explains how fractional HR leadership gives startups access to senior-level expertise without the full-time overhead, and why getting people strategy right early can fuel growth, strengthen culture, and protect revenue. Whether you're hiring your first employee or scaling past 100, this episode offers practical insights you can apply immediately.

In this episode of Fireside with Founders & Leaders, host Rupert sits down with Sammie from Gains App to explore his remarkable journey from struggling with debt to becoming a prominent voice in financial education. Sammie shares how he transformed his passion for finance into a successful content creation and tech business, aiming to bridge the information gap in personal finance. Tune in to discover the innovative features of the Gains App and Sammie's insights on improving financial literacy and awareness.Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sammieellardking/(00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast (00:24) - - Welcoming Sammie to the Podcast (01:02) - - Sammie's Journey into Finance (01:46) - - Overcoming Debt and Finding Purpose (03:32) - - Transition to Financial Education (04:48) - - The Impact of COVID on Business Ideas (05:58) - - Building a Content Creation Business (07:38) - - The Importance of Financial Awareness (09:40) - - Discussion on University Debt (10:52) - - Understanding Good vs. Bad Debt (12:56) - - Shocking Financial Realities (14:13) - - The Advice Gap in Finance (16:40) - - Introduction to the Gains App (19:10) - - Features of the Gains App (21:40) - - Gamifying Financial Management (23:49) - - Pivotal Moments in Business Evolution (27:12) - - The Challenges of Building a Tech Company (29:26) - - Transition from Content to Tech (32:20) - - The Role of Content in User Acquisition (34:50) - - Hiring for a Tech Startup (40:39) - - Building a Collaborative Team Environment (43:25) - - Meeting and Working with Co-Founders (47:11) - - Effective Marketing Strategies (50:18) - - The Importance of Storytelling in Business (52:28) - - Navigating Noise on LinkedIn (54:04) - - The Future of AI in Content Creation (58:16) - - Balancing Life and Finances (01:01:52) - - Closing Thoughts and Messages

Rob Hughes — CISO at RSA and Champion of a Passwordless FutureNo Password Required Season 7:  Episode 1 - Rob HughesRob Hughes, the CISO at RSA, has more than 25 years of experience leading security and cloud infrastructure teams. In this episode, he reflects on his unconventional career path, from co-founding the original Geek.com and serving as its Chief Technologist during the early days of the internet, to leading security and systems design at Philips Home Monitoring.Jack Clabby of Carlton Fields, P.A. and Kayley Melton welcome Rob for a wide-ranging conversation on identity, leadership, and the realities of modern cybersecurity. Rob currently leads RSA's Security and Risk Office, overseeing cybersecurity, information security governance, and risk across both RSA's products and corporate environment.Rob explains his dream for a passwordless future. He unpacks why passwords remain one of the largest sources of cyber risk, how real-world incidents and password-spraying attacks have accelerated change, and why phishing-resistant technologies like passkeys may finally be reaching a tipping point.  The episode wraps with the Lifestyle Polygraph, where Rob lightens the conversation with stories about gaming with his kids, underrated horror films, and classic cars.Follow Rob on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-hughes-816067a4/Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to No Password Required01:43 Meet Rob Hughes, CISO at RSA02:05 The Role of a CISO in a Security Company05:09 Transitioning to the CISO Role08:00 The Early Days of Geek.com12:14 Launching a Startup During the Dot Com Boom14:30 The Push for a Passwordless Future18:21 Tipping Point for Passwordless Adoption20:20 Ongoing Learning in Cybersecurity26:09 Managing Stress in High-Pressure Environments33:46 The Lifestyle Polygraph Begins34:15 Career Insights in Cybersecurity36:08 Dream Cars and Personal Preferences39:58 Underrated Horror Films41:19 Creating a Cybersecurity Monster

Silicon Valley is experiencing its biggest platform shift in decades, but beneath the frenzy lies a brutal correction in progress. An early-stage AI investor reveals the uncomfortable truths emerging from the epicenter of the boom. Host Swathi Moorthy talks to Apoorva Pandhi, Managing Director of Zetta Venture Partners about why the honeymoon is over. What began as wild experimentation now faces merciless ROI demands. Startups are securing nine-figure valuations with little more than demos. The mortality rate between seed and Series A has never been higher. Each breakthrough from major AI labs creates an instant graveyard of obsolete startups entire business models evaporate overnight. This isn't typical market turbulence. Researchers, not traditional founders, now command the power. Mega-funds are abandoning late-stage discipline to chase seed deals with oversized checks. The math has broken. And at the heart of it all: a dangerous gap between what AI companies are worth and what they can actually deliver. The reckoning won't be gradual, it's already underway, and most won't see it coming.You can follow Swathi Moorthy on her social media: X and Linkedin Check out other interesting episodes of ET in the Valley: ET in the Valley: Grant Lee, Co-Founder & CEO of Gamma, ET in the Valley: Databricks Co-founder Patrick Wendell, ET in the Valley: Replit Founder and CEO Amjad Masad, ET in the Valley: ElevenLabs Co-Founder Mati Staniszewski and much more. Catch the latest episode of ‘The Morning Brief’ on The Economic Times Online, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, JioSaavn, Amazon Music and Youtube.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week Adam speaks with Raj Babu, partner at BFG Partners, an early-stage venture capital firm investing in emerging food, beverage, and consumer brands. Prior to joining BFG, Raj served as President of Birch Benders, the #1 natural pancake and waffle mix brand and a BFG portfolio company. Under his leadership, the business expanded to four product lines in over 10,000 stores, leading to an acquisition by Sovos Brands. In this episode, Raj talks about the nuances of investing in the food sector, particularly consumer packaged goods (CPG), and the innovation from Colorado's natural food industry with companies like Bobo's Oat Bars and Caulipower as examples of standout successes. He also shares insights on identifying lasting trends versus fleeting fads and emphasizes that great ideas can come from anywhere within an organization.Listen now on: Amazon Music (Alexa) | Spotify | Apple Podcasts or wherever you get podcasts!Connect with hosts Adam and Chris and the Range VC team on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/range-ventures/Check out more about what we're up to at Range.vc This podcast is powered by The Plug Podcast Agency See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What does it really take to break into the world’s most selective startup accelerator? In this episode, host Swathi Moorthy speaks with Ankit Gupta, General Partner at Y Combinator, about how AI is rapidly eroding traditional advantages in entrepreneurship. Gupta explains why a growing share of YC startups, nearly 80–90% are now AI-led, and how coding agents are enabling younger, first-time founders to compress years of learning into months. He challenges the idea that pedigree, polished pitches, or early revenue matter most, arguing instead that YC continues to back builders with strong execution skills and complementary co-founding teams. The conversation also takes on prevailing narratives about Indian founders, the isolation that comes with building companies from scratch, and YC’s blunt survival mantra: “Don’t die.” Gupta closes with a sobering insight that we are living through an unusually uncertain moment, one where even a decade ahead has become impossible to predict.Listen in:You can follow Swathi Moorthy on her social media: X and LinkedinCheck out other interesting episodes of ET in the Valley: ET in the Valley: Grant Lee, Co-Founder & CEO of Gamma, ET in the Valley: Databricks Co-founder Patrick Wendell, ET in the Valley: Replit Founder and CEO Amjad Masad, ET in the Valley: ElevenLabs Co-Founder Mati Staniszewski and much more. Catch the latest episode of ‘The Morning Brief’ on The Economic Times Online, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, JioSaavn, Amazon Music and Youtube. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Timestamps: 0:00 keep calm and tech news on 0:11 Grok breaks safety guardrails again 1:55 ASUS exits smartphone business, RAM issues 3:28 Possible PS5 jailbreak 6:02 QUICK BITS INTRO 6:09 Pebble Round 2 smartwatch 6:48 Flipper Zero, Raspberry Pi inauguration ban 7:22 California DROP data deletion tool 8:09 Space furnace! 8:51 Tech Startups offer free Sesh pouches NEWS SOURCES: https://lmg.gg/keh6i Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This abridged video takes you into a live unrehearsed meeting in which a CEO and CTO (chief technology officer) develop a startup within 3 hours. Rapid development of business model, revenue model and product. Learn to create and monetize your own app in my course: https://thesasn.com/courses/how-to-create-and-monetize-your-app/Marquett Burton is building a Training Center to be catalyst for global revolution. Support Via Cashapp: @MarquettDavonSupport via Venmo: @MarquettDavonSupport: https://donate.stripe.com/4gM9ATgXFcRx5Tf4rw0x200Become a member: https://thesasn.com/membership-account/membership-levels/Support with Bitcoin: BTC Deposit address: 3NtpN3eGwcmAgq1AYJsp7aV7QzQDeE9uwdMy Book: https://www.amazon.com/Black-Box-Marquett-Burton/dp/0578745062https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-marquett-burtons-training-centerBook Consultation: https://cozycal.com/sasn#Marquettism #FinancialFreedom #Entrepreneurship #Marquettdavon #Wealth #FoundationalBlackAmerican #Leadership #Deen #business #relationships #money

Plus: Many memecoins, which were hot a year ago, have crashed. And Hong Kong stocks log their best year since 2017. Julie Chang hosts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Charlie Uniman, your podcast host, and Pat Utz, CEO and co-founder of Abstract (https://www.abstract.us/), explore how Abstract turns legislative and regulatory noise into real-time, client-specific strategy, and why deterministic workflows beat agentic dreams for now. Pat shares candid lessons on funding, traction, hiring, and building a product that actually moves the needle.• origins in AI research and mission to make government transparent• proactive monitoring of bills, regulations, executive orders, and local agendas• real-time enrichment with client context to flag risks and opportunities• strategy layer and workflows that move from alert to outreach• planned expansion into judicial opinions to shape case law awareness• enterprise focus with long-term goal of a consumer version• founder advice on VC vs bootstrapping, traction before funding, and hiring fitIf you're interested in legal tech startups and enjoyed this podcast, please consider joining the free Legal Tech Startup Focus community by going to www.legaltech startupfocus.com and signing up

Sponsors Cloud Accountant Staffing - http://accountingpodcast.promo/casRelay - http://accountingpodcast.promo/relayOnPay - http://accountingpodcast.promo/onpayChapters(00:47) - Jeffrey Epstein's CPA and Lawyer (03:10) - Wall Street Journal Article on Epstein's Associates (05:58) - Discussion on Epstein's Financial Operations (14:25) - Trump's Executive Order on Cannabis Businesses (18:16) - Tax Implications for Gambling and Prediction Markets (20:47) - IRS Criminal Investigations Unit Record Year (25:13) - Lawyer Sues IRS to Recognize Dog as Dependent (28:09) - Trump's New US Tech Force (29:27) - Trump's Hiring Plans and Tech Startups (30:22) - Startup Fraud in Tax Accounting (34:23) - Intuit and Circle Partnership (36:38) - AI and Stablecoin Payments (44:16) - AI's Impact on Accounting Jobs (51:24) - AI-Powered Fraud in Finance (55:59) - Closing Remarks and Announcements  Show NotesThe CPA and the Lawyer Who Served Jeffrey Epstein—and Control His Fortune and Secrets https://www.wsj.com/articles/the-cpa-and-the-lawyer-who-served-jeffrey-epstein-and-control-his-fortune-and-secretsTaking a gamble on prediction market taxation https://www.accountingtoday.com/news/taking-a-gamble-on-prediction-market-taxationLawyer sues IRS to recognize pets as dependents https://www.accountingtoday.com/news/lawyer-sues-irs-to-recognize-pets-as-dependentsSEC Charges Shiloh Luckey https://www.sec.gov/enforcement-litigation/litigation-releases/lr-26424The FBI is investigating a startup founder accused of using VC money to pay for her house and a Caribbean wedding https://techstartups.com/2025/12/16/the-fbi-is-investigating-a-startup-founder-accused-of-spending-5-5-million-in-vc-funding-on-a-house-and-caribbean-wedding/Intuit taps Circle's USDC to add stablecoin payments across TurboTax and QuickBooks https://www.theblock.co/post/383184/intuit-circle-usdc-stablecoin-payments-turbotax-quickbooksIntuit and Circle Partner to Unlock the Future of Money Movement with Stablecoins https://investors.intuit.com/news-events/press-releases/detail/1292/intuit-and-circle-partner-to-unlock-the-future-of-money-movement-with-stablecoinsAI Is Reshaping Accounting Jobs by Doing the "Boring" Stuff https://www.gsb.stanford.edu/insights/ai-reshaping-accounting-jobs-doing-boring-stuffHuman + AI in Accounting: Early Evidence from the Field https://www.gsb.stanford.edu/faculty-research/working-papers/human-ai-accounting-early-evidence-fieldIRS-CI issues fiscal year 2025 annual report showcasing banner investigative results https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-ci-issues-fiscal-year-2025-annual-report-showcasing-banner-investigative-resultsIRS Criminal Investigation uncovers $10.6B in financial crimes https://www.accountingtoday.com/news/irs-criminal-investigation-uncovers-10-6b-in-financial-crimesDext warns businesses over losses from ChatGPT-style financial advice https://fintech.global/2025/12/18/dext-warns-businesses-over-losses-from-chatgpt-style-financial-advice/ChatGPT tax advice already costing UK firms, say accountants https://itbrief.co.uk/story/chatgpt-tax-advice-already-costing-uk-firms-say-accountantsTrump admin to hire 1,000 specialists for 'Tech Force' to build AI, finance projects https://www.cnbc.com/2025/12/15/trump-ai-tech-force-amazon-apple.htmlOPM Launches US Tech Force to Implement President Trump's Vision for Technology Leadershiphttps://www.opm.gov/news/news-releases/opm-launches-us-tech-force-to-implement-president-trumps-vision-for-technology-leadership/Double Raises $6.5 Million Series A from Album Ventures, Jack Altman, and Y Combinator to Double Accountants' Productivity https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251210027851/en/Double-Raises-$6.5-Million-Series-A-from-Album-Ventures-Jack-Altman-and-Y-Combinator-to-Double-Accountants-ProductivityZoho announces enterprise billing, spend management products https://www.accountingtoday.com/news/zoho-announces-enterprise-billing-spend-management-productsZoho Announces Zoho Spend and Zoho Billing Enterprise Edition https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251218170986/en/Zoho-Announces-Zoho-Spend-and-Zoho-Billing-Enterprise-Edition-Offering-Large-Businesses-Greater-Control-and-Flexibility-Over-Billing-Operations-and-Company-Spend-as-They-ScaleAI giving scammers new tricks, enhancing old ones https://www.accountingtoday.com/news/ai-giving-scammers-new-tricks-enhancing-old-onesFrom secure to spooked: White-collar workers face rising job fears https://www.businessreport.com/article/from-secure-to-spooked-white-collar-workers-face-rising-job-fears

Send us a textAre you suffering from "swipe fatigue"? In a world where digital dating feels more like a chore than a connection, we're often left wondering if the "spark" has been replaced by an algorithm. But what if the right technology could actually lead you back to a real soul connection?Today, host Lira Ndifon sits down with Martin Hossen, the visionary CEO and Founder of OLOO, to discuss how he is using Artificial Intelligence to disrupt the dating industry and restore hope to the lonely-hearted.In this deeply insightful conversation, we peel back the curtain on the "AI magic" powering the next generation of human connection. From personal pain points to global innovation, Martin shares the story of how a frustrated coder decided to build an app that actually knows you.We dive into the game-changing features of OLOO:The AI Photo Search: Tired of looking for "your type"? Learn how you can upload a photo of your ideal aesthetic—even a celebrity crush—to find matches that fit your visual vibe in seconds.Love is Blind Mode: A 3-minute, voice-only experience that prioritizes soul connection over physical appearance. Can you fall for a vibe before you see a face?The AI Communication Coach: Discover how OLOO helps users—especially men—navigate modern dating with respect, clarity, and "Grammarly-style" support for better conversations.Beyond the Tech: The Founder's JourneyBuilding a startup isn't all "yeses" and success. Martin opens up about the resilience required to survive over ten rejections from the App Store and the mental health practices—from playing piano to distance running—that keep him grounded during the grind. As we enter the holiday season, Lira and Martin reflect on why prioritizing self-reflection and mental well-being is the ultimate prerequisite for finding love.Your worth is not defined by a match or a message. Whether you are navigating the dating world or building your own dream from scratch, keep going. There is light at the end of the tunnel, and sometimes, all it takes is one fresh perspective to change your entire journey. Be kind to yourself, stay gentle with your heart, and keep reflecting.Join the Self-Reflection Family!If this conversation sparked a new thought or gave you a glimmer of hope, please help us grow!Follow & Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube so you never miss a breakthrough.Leave a 5-Star Review—it helps more people find these poignant conversations.Share the Love: Send this episode to one friend who is ready to delete the old apps and try something fresh.Connect with us:Download OLOO: Available now on the Apple App Store (Free!)Follow Martin: @martinhossen on InstagramFollow Lira: @SelfReflectionPodcast on all platformsSupport the showCall to Action: Engage with the Self-Reflection Podcast community! Like, follow, and subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube (Self-Reflection Podcast by Lira Ndifon), and all major podcast platforms. Share your insights and feedback—we value your contributions! Suggest topics you'd like us to explore. Your support amplifies our reach, sharing these vital messages of self-love and empowerment. Until our next conversation, prioritize self-care and embrace your journey. Grab your copy of "Awaken Your True Self" on Amazon. Until next time, be kind to yourself and keep reflecting.

Mr. Beast Biography Flash a weekly Biography.In the last few days, Jimmy Donaldson, better known as Mr Beast, has quietly been in one of the most pivotal stretches of his career, with business, philanthropy, and long term strategy all converging into a more traditional mogul story than just a viral YouTuber arc. TechCrunch reports that his CEO Jeff Housenbold has openly floated the idea of eventually taking Beast Industries public so that fans could own a piece of the empire, a move that, if realized, would mark one of the first true creator born conglomerates heading toward an IPO scale future rather than just a channel or brand play. TechCrunch also notes that leaked financials reported by Bloomberg show Feastables as the most profitable arm of the operation, even outperforming both the flagship YouTube channel and the Amazon Prime game show Beast Games, underscoring how seriously Donaldson has pivoted into consumer products and studio level production. At the same time, the legal hangover from earlier hypergrowth continues; TechCrunch highlights the ongoing lawsuit with Virtual Dining Concepts over the now shuttered MrBeast Burger, and the separate suit from Beast Games contestants alleging mistreatment and a hostile environment on set. Those cases are still working their way through the system, and much of what is claimed remains unproven allegations rather than established fact, but they are the main shadow on an otherwise soaring public profile. On the philanthropic front, Fortune and an official announcement from the Rockefeller Foundation detail a new strategic partnership between Beast Philanthropy and the 112 year old institution, designed to blend Mr Beasts youth reach with Rockefeller data driven development work and planned travel to Ghana next year to study community led change together. That collaboration, alongside his role fronting the 1 Billion Acts of Kindness campaign with the 1 Billion Followers Summit and partners in Dubai, where creators can submit kindness videos through mid December to potentially join him on a Ghana village building trip, shows Donaldson deliberately anchoring his image in large scale, institutional philanthropy rather than one off stunts alone. Across his social feeds in recent days, he has continued teasing upcoming high budget videos and Beast Games related content rather than dropping any bombshell new controversies, with most coverage now dissecting his net worth, his multi billion dollar brand valuation, and what an eventual Beast Industries stock listing could mean. For now, the verified story is clear: Mr Beast is spending this week less as an impulsive viral creator and more as a carefully managed founder steering a media, food, and philanthropy empire toward Wall Street, global NGOs, and massive viewer driven charity campaigns. Thanks for listening, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss an update on Mr Beast, and search the term Biography Flash for more great biographies.And that is it for today. Make sure you hit the subscribe button and never miss an update on Mr. Beast. Thanks for listening. This has been a Quiet Please production."Get the best deals https://amzn.to/4mMClBvThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

What does it really take to break through the myths of entrepreneurship and build a financially independent life—especially as a woman? In this eye-opening episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood invites listeners to rethink traditional notions of wealth, investing, and risk-taking by exploring the power of money mindset, resilience, and strategic investing.Our guest, Bernadette Joy, is a first-generation Filipino American, acclaimed author of "Crush Your Money Goals," and an entrepreneur who's achieved financial independence by age 40. As a life and money coach, Bernadette Joy opens up about her unconventional path from paying off $300,000 in debt to mentoring the next generation of women investors and entrepreneurs. Her journey is shaped by personal experience, a mission to help others overcome financial misconceptions, and a passion for demystifying the road to millionaire status—especially for women and communities of color.This episode dives deep into actionable strategies for getting your financial house in order, understanding the realities of angel investing, and building businesses designed for both growth and early retirement. Bernadette Joy shares candid stories—both successes and failures—offering a rare, honest perspective on what it means to curate your accounts, invest with intention, and heal your “money wounds.” Whether you're an aspiring investor, established entrepreneur, or simply looking for practical financial wisdom with heart and humor, this is a must-listen conversation that will inspire you to reimagine what's possible for your financial and entrepreneurial journey. To get the latest from Bernadette Joy, you can follow her below!https://www.linkedin.com/in/bernadebtjoy/https://www.crushyourmoneygoals.com/ https://a.co/d/1KJRwvJ - Crush Your Money Goals Bookhttps://www.instagram.com/bernadebtjoy/  Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing!Website: www.marciadawood.comDo Good While Doing WellLearn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.comAnd don't forget to follow us wherever you are!Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.appleSpotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotifyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood

Most people run from government bureaucracy. Pavan Parikh ran toward it—and decided to rewrite the system from the inside.He believes public service should move like a startup: fast, transparent, and built around people, not process.But when tradition, power, and red tape pushed back, he didn't fold—he went to the statehouse to fight for reform.So how do you disrupt a 200-year-old system that was never built for speed or equity?In Episode 188 of the Disruption Now Podcast, Pavan breaks down how he's modernizing Hamilton County's court systems, digitizing paper-heavy workflows, and using AI and automation to reduce barriers to justice rather than create new ones. Whether you work in government, policy, law, or tech, you'll see how startup tools and mindsets can create real impact, not just buzzwords.Pavan Parikh is the elected Hamilton County Clerk of Courts in Ohio, focused on increasing access to justice, improving customer service, and modernizing one of the county's most important institutions. In this episode, we talk about what happens when a startup mindset collides with decades-old court processes, why culture eats technology for breakfast, and how AI can help everyday people navigate civil cases, evictions, and protection orders more effectively.You'll also hear Pavan's personal journey—from planning a career in medicine to 9/11 shifting him toward law and public service to ultimately leading one of the most prominent offices in Hamilton County. We get into fear of AI, job-loss anxiety within government, and how he's reframing AI as a teammate that frees staff for higher-value work rather than replacing them.If you've ever looked at the justice system and thought “there has to be a better way,” this deep dive into startup thinking for government will show you what that better way can look like—and what it takes to build it from the inside.What you'll learn in this episode:How startup thinking for government can reduce friction and errors in court processesWhy is Pavan obsessed with access to justice and end-user experience for everyday residents?How Hamilton County is digitizing records, streamlining evictions, and modernizing civil protection order filingWhere AI and automation can safely support court staff and help-center attorneysWhy change management is the real challenge—not the technologyHow local government can be a faster “lab” for responsible AI than federal agenciesWhat it really looks like to design systems around people, not paperworkChapters:00:00 Why the government needs startup thinking03:15 Pavan's path from medicine to law and 9/11's impact10:45 Modernizing Hamilton County courts and killing paper workflows22:10 AI, access to justice, and reimagining the Help Center35:30 Careers, values, and becoming a disruptor in public serviceQuick Q&A (for searchers):Q: What does “startup thinking for government” mean in this episode?A: Treating residents as end users, iterating on systems, and using tech and AI to automate low-value tasks so staff can focus on service and justice outcomes.Q: How is Hamilton County using technology to improve access to justice?A: By digitizing records, expanding the Help Center, improving online access to cases, limiting or removing outdated eviction records, and building easier online processes for civil protection orders.Q: Will AI replace court jobs?A: Pavan argues AI should handle repetitive questions and data lookups so humans can spend more time problem-solving, doing quality control, and helping people with complex issues.Connect with Pavan Parikh (verified/public handles):Website: PavanParikh.comX (Twitter): @KeepPavanClerkFacebook: Pavan Parikh for Clerk of Courts / @KeepPavanClerkInstagram: @KeepPavanClerkOffice channel: Hamilton County Clerk of Courts – @HamCoClerk on YouTubeDisruption Now resources:Subscribe to YouTube for more conversations at the intersection of AI, policy, government, and impact.Join the newsletter for weekly trends in AI and emerging tech for people who want to change systems, not just complain about them. bit.ly/newsletterDN#StartupThinking #GovTech #AccessToJusticeDisruption Now: Disrupting the status quo, making emerging tech human-centric and Accessible to all. Website https://disruptionnow.com/podcast Apply to get on the Podcast https://form.typeform.com/to/Ir6Agmzr?typeform-source=disruptionnow.comMusic credit:Embrace - Evgeny Bardyuzha

For this month's Retail Tech Startup of the Month, AWS's Daniele Stroppa returns to spotlight SymphonyAI, a groundbreaking computer vision solution that's improving how retailers tackle the costly out-of-stock problem. SymphonyAI leverages existing in-store cameras to deliver something retailers have been missing: actionable, prioritized worklists that tell associates exactly what to fix first to maximize sales impact. No more drowning in dashboards, just clear direction that drives results. Daniele breaks down how retailers are achieving 25% increases in labor productivity and 5-7% improvements in on-shelf availability, proving this isn't just another tech demo, it's a boon for physical retail operations.

What happens when your “great idea” is actually the wrong play? We go there. Mike tells the unfiltered story of mowPod's first podcasting product—ambitious, clever, and a complete flop—and how killing it fast unlocked mowPod Boost, a transparent, programmatic engine that drives real listeners, not vague traffic https://charts.mowpod.com/. From fireworks on a party boat to late‑night pool plots, the thread is the same: people over polish, community over posturing, and data over hype.We also zoom out. Mike's two months alcohol‑free and living in Japan, balancing founder intensity with being a present dad, building a soundproof music room, and leaning on “blowouts” like karaoke or a hard run to reset his head. We talk about identity beyond titles, why comfort quietly kills growth, and how thinking like a chess player helps you plan moves, counters, and outcomes without losing the joy in the game. If you've ever considered sunsetting a project you love to make space for the next chapter, this will land.For creators and brands hungry for practical tools, we dig into self‑serve growth that respects indie budgets and why the industry needs to ditch the black box. Don't miss the free resource drop: mowPod Charts offers historic Apple and Spotify rankings with alerts, so you can track trends without a paywall. If you care about product‑market fit, transparent attribution, and building real community that shows up for you years later, you'll feel at home here.If this sparked something, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or a rating on Spotify. Tell us: what will you end or begin to grow on your terms?To check out mowPod... https://mowpod.com/ and to connect with Mike, you can find him on IG https://www.instagram.com/sobimike/#Talk yo sh!t… Sh!t-Talker!!Support the showFOLLOW US ON;Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkshitwithpTwitter: https://twitter.com/TalkshitwithpFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkwhitwIthpTiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@TalkshitwithpShop IG: https://www.instagram.com/Talkshitwithp.shopLEAVE US A REVIEW ON APPLE PODCAST: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/talk-shit-with-p/id1509470001AND SUBSCRIBE TO OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL:https://www.youtube.com/@TalkshitwithpSupport The Show (whatever you can)Cashapp: https://cash.app/$TSWP20Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TswpBuymecoffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/talkshitwithpAmazon Wishlist: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2M9Q4HNKRO2WA?ref_=wl_shareTo Learn more on my story;https://flow.page/tal...

The Ukrainian society is not frozen. Beyond the headlines, much of everyday life and business innovation is actually functioning quite well. Anastasiia Liubiashcheva is deeply involved in the Ukrainian startup ecosystem, working with Home of Startups Accelerator, Vacuum Deep-Tech Acceleration and the EU-funded consortium Seeds of Bravery. Her mission is primarily to boost deep tech companies, moving from local labs to global markets. She explains how many agritech companies now have moved move into defensetech. But how is war-time life in Ukraine taking its toll on mental and physical health? Heja Framtiden met Anastasiia during the Sweden week of Swedish Institute's Impact Pioneers programme. Podcast host: Christian von Essen // Learn more at hejaframtiden.se

FinTech Flo is back! Our top stories...The AI bubble is here, and the circular funding schemes look eerily similar to Enron. Plus: How an NBA executive allegedly stole $3.8 MILLION right under everyone's nose.

Dr. Bernardita Calinao, founder and CEO of Walkspan, joins EisnerAmper's TechTalk host Janina Teoxon to share how her startup is pioneering a data-driven approach to measure and improve walkability in urban environments. In this episode, discover how its AI-driven, advanced neighborhood search tool taps into the world's largest walking-environment dataset to help users find communities that fit their lifestyles and support smarter real estate decisions. Tune in to explore Walkspan's mission to enhance public spaces and boost property values through neighborhood intelligence. Connect with Dr. Calinao: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bernardita-calinao-phd/ Walkspan: https://walkspan.ai/ ✨ What you'll learn:

This week Chris speaks with private equity executive, entrepreneur, and Colorado native, Andrew Schremp, to discuss his journey across banking, entrepreneurship and investing. He currently serves on the Board of Directors of Colorado PERA providing fiduciary oversight of $65B+ in assets for nearly 700,000 beneficiaries. Formerly, he was the Director at Bow River Capital and prior to that, he was the Founder and CEO of Health Sqyre, Inc., a health tech company acquired by The VGM Group. In this episode, Andrew's shares his unique perspective on the evolution of the Colorado tech ecosystem, valuable insights for navigating the startup scene, plus examples of his biggest lesson on the the importance of building genuine relationshipsListen now on: Amazon Music (Alexa) | Spotify | Apple Podcasts or wherever you get podcasts!Connect with hosts Adam and Chris and the Range VC team on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/range-ventures/Check out more about what we're up to at Range.vc See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On Mission Matters, Adam Torres interviews Nicolas Tabardel, Managing Partner, ATUM Ventures, about venture building in deep tech—sourcing IP from research institutes, validating with corporates, funding early milestones, and empowering founders to scale solutions in clean energy, advanced manufacturing, AI, and healthcare. Follow Adam on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/askadamtorres/ for up to date information on book releases and tour schedule. Apply to be a guest on our podcast: https://missionmatters.lpages.co/podcastguest/ Visit our website: https://missionmatters.com/ More FREE content from Mission Matters here: https://linktr.ee/missionmattersmedia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On Mission Matters, ⁠Adam Torres⁠ interviews ⁠Nicolas Tabardel⁠, Managing Partner, ATUM Ventures, about venture building in deep tech—sourcing IP from research institutes, validating with corporates, funding early milestones, and empowering founders to scale solutions in clean energy, advanced manufacturing, AI, and healthcare. Follow Adam on Instagram at ⁠https://www.instagram.com/askadamtorres/⁠ for up to date information on book releases and tour schedule. Apply to be a guest on our podcast: ⁠https://missionmatters.lpages.co/podcastguest/⁠ Visit our website: ⁠https://missionmatters.com/⁠ More FREE content from Mission Matters here: ⁠https://linktr.ee/missionmattersmedia⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

AWS's Daniele Stroppa, Worldwide Technical Lead for AWS Partners in Retail, joins Omni Talk to announce October's Retail Tech Startup of the Month: Writer. Daniele breaks down why Writer's full-stack generative AI platform is transforming how retailers and brands automate processes and generate content across their organizations. From their proprietary large language models to pre-built retail-specific agents, Writer offers a specialized solution that accelerates time to production.

In this episode of Just Compensation, Megan Monson, Taryn E. Cannataro, and Zachary Bocian discuss employee retention strategies during a company sale, including transaction bonuses, retention bonuses, management carve-out plans, and severance plans. They assess whether the seller or buyer is responsible for funding retention tools and address the legal and practical considerations of such arrangements. To learn more about 280G, listen to Section 280G Unpacked: Pitfalls and Planning for Tech Startups. To learn more about 'Top Hat' structures, listen to Puttin' on Your Top Hat: How to Effectively Structure a Deferred Compensation Plan as a “Top Hat” Plan. Speakers: Megan Monson, Partner, Executive Compensation and Employee BenefitsTaryn E. Cannataro, Counsel, Executive Compensation and Employee BenefitsZachary Bocian, Associate, Executive Compensation

Send us a textSome stories rise from privilege. Others, from perfect timing. But then there are stories like Shelley's — born from the ashes of burnout and built on the courage to begin again.A decade ago, she was a single mum, exhausted and uncertain, trying to find her way back to herself. Today, she's the Co-Founder & CEO of SQR, a tech company making the digital world safer through intelligent identity infrastructure.From performing arts to technology, from rock bottom to leading teams across continents — Shelley's journey is anything but linear. It's a creative remix of resilience, curiosity, and the courage to take the scenic route.In this cinematic conversation, we talk about:What it really takes to build and lead a startupThe villains and turning points that shaped her storyThe power of reinventing yourself after burnoutAnd why growth often begins at the edge of your comfort zone

This week Adam speaks with Robin Thurston, the CEO and founder of Outside Interactive, Inc., the world's leading creator of outdoor content and home to iconic brands like Outside Magazine, Warren Miller, MapMyFitness, and others. Through its network of 25 media, digital, and technology platforms, Outside reaches over 100 million active consumers worldwide. Before founding Outside, Robin worked at Under Armour and led a consumer genetics company in Silicon Valley. In this episode, Robin discusses how his entrepreneurial family background helped him navigate his groundbreaking career. He also shares his perspective on the evolution of Denver's tech ecosystem as a Colorado native, his biggest lessons for building sustainable businesses, and his vision for the future of outdoor content and lifestyle brands.Listen now on: Amazon Music (Alexa) | Spotify | Apple Podcasts or wherever you get podcasts!Connect with hosts Adam and Chris and the Range VC team on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/range-ventures/Check out more about what we're up to at Range.vc See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Investor Connect, Hall Martin engages with Joe Perino, a seasoned industrial strategist, consultant, and engineer with over four decades of experience. Joe shares insights on industrial transformation, emphasizing the importance of technology-enabled business model changes that yield significant improvements. He discusses the impact of predictive analytics and edge computing in the energy process and manufacturing sectors, highlighting their role in predictive maintenance and operational efficiency. Joe also touches on the challenges of scaling AI applications, the necessity of robust cybersecurity measures, and the importance of interoperability standards in industrial tech. Additionally, Joe shares his experience with mentoring startups and the role of industry consortia and accelerators in fostering innovation and business growth. This episode provides a comprehensive overview of the industrial tech landscape, offering valuable advice for both operators and investors.   Reach out to at   or       _________________________________________________________For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at:    Check out our other podcasts here:   For Investors check out:   For Startups check out:   For eGuides check out:   For upcoming Events, check out    For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group    Please , share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of .

In this episode of EisnerAmper's Engaging Alternatives podcast series, Elana Margulies-Snyderman, Director, Publications, speaks with Keri Findley, CEO & CIO, Tacora Capital Management, an investment manager specializing in asset-based lending opportunities in specialty finance and insurance. Keri, a former Partner at Third Point Capital, shares her outlook for providing bespoke, founder-friendly financing solutions to high-growth, tech-enabled companies including the greatest opportunities and challenges. She also discusses her experience being a woman in the industry. ✨ What you'll learn:

Reimagining Travel Through AI: Startup Lessons from The Tarzan Way | Top Global StartupsJoin Shikhar Chadha, Founder & CEO of The Tarzan Way, as he shares his journey from launching backpacker hostels at age 19 to building an AI-powered travel-tech platform redefining how people discover and book unique experiences worldwide. Learn how he scaled a global travel startup, raised funding, and leveraged AI to personalize adventure at scale. Insights You'll Learn: Startup Growth Journey – from early-stage idea to a $2M+ ARR travel-tech venture Fundraising Strategies – raising $400K+ and building investor confidence AI in Travel – how artificial intelligence is personalizing discovery and booking Building Teams – managing and motivating 120+ members across operations Global Partnerships – collaborating with tourism boards and industry leaders Entrepreneurial Mindset – lessons from starting young and scaling fast Future of Travel – tech innovations shaping next-gen travel experiences Why This Matters:AI is transforming how travelers plan, explore, and connect with destinationsThe travel-tech sector is evolving into a data-driven, personalized experience economyShikhar's journey offers real-world insights into building scalable AI startupsA perfect example of innovation meeting adventure in the post-pandemic travel boom Expert Background:• Founder & CEO, The Tarzan Way – AI-powered travel-tech startup revolutionizing experiential travel• Serial Entrepreneur – launched and exited a hostel chain before age 22• Raised $400K+ in venture funding | Scaled to $2M+ ARR | Partnered with global tourism boards• Focused on the intersection of Travel, AI, and Technology Innovation Perfect For: Founders, travel-tech innovators, AI entrepreneurs, investors, startup enthusiasts, and anyone passionate about the future of global travel and adventure. Timely Topic: As the travel industry rebounds with AI-driven innovation, understanding how startups like The Tarzan Way are reshaping exploration and human connection is more relevant than ever.Subscribe for more global founder conversations from GSD Venture Studios:GSD Venture Studios: https://gsdvs.com#TravelTech #AI #StartupJourney #Entrepreneurship #Innovation #FutureOfTravel #AdventureTech #Fundraising #TravelAI #GlobalStartups #TopGlobalStartups

What does it really take to build a tech startup from scratch — not in Silicon Valley, but in Pittsburgh — and grow it into a company that just landed $10.6 million in growth capital? On this episode of 10 Minute Tech Talks, we sit down with Alison Alvarez and Tomer Borenstein, the co-founders of BlastPoint, a Pittsburgh-based AI company that's spent nearly a decade perfecting how data can drive smarter business decisions. Their story is one of grit, patience, and the power of building something meaningful over time. You'll hear how Alison and Tomer: Turned a class project at Carnegie Mellon into a national AI success story, powered by sheer determination (and a few late nights with chickens watching from the windowsill). Balanced day jobs, family, and startup dreams for years before finally jumping in full-time — a masterclass in sustainable entrepreneurship. Navigated Pittsburgh's unique startup ecosystem, proving that community support and local roots can be just as powerful as coastal capital. As Alison puts it, “Starting a company is like chasing a crazy dream — but if we hadn't done it, BlastPoint wouldn't exist.” Their reflections on resilience, growth, and staying grounded in Pittsburgh's tech scene make this episode a must-listen for any entrepreneur who's ever wondered if it's still possible to build something great the hard way — with integrity, perseverance, and a love for where you live. Hit PLAY now to hear how two tech entrepreneurs turned persistence into progress — and why their best chapters are just beginning. Listen to their entire interview on TechVibe Radio here. This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

What happens when you spend 10 years at Amazon, love your job, love your team and then parenthood shakes everything up?That's the story of Jane Dashevsky. Becoming a mom of two under two made her start asking the big questions: What do I really want for myself? For my family? That entrepreneurial spark she'd carried deep down finally pushed her to walk away from stability and build something of her own.Jane is now the founder of The Starter Set, an AI-powered service that helps parents cut through the chaos of baby product shopping. Because let's be honest, the last thing overwhelmed parents need is another late-night Google spiral about strollers.In this episode, Jane gets real about:Leaving a steady job after a decade at AmazonThe identity shift that comes with walking away from stabilityParenting while building a startup (the real messy middle)Testing ideas piece by piece and finding her way in Seattle's startup worldHow to not let numbers or social media dictate your worthThis is a conversation about courage, resilience, and choosing yourself, and your family, even when the path ahead is messy and unclear.

John Danner, co-founder and CEO of Flourish Schools, joins Kerry McDonald to discuss how his new Nashville-based microschool network is reimagining middle school education. Drawing on his experience founding Rocketship Public Schools, Danner explains how Flourish uses AI to automate foundational learning while empowering teachers to focus on students' “superpowers” — curiosity, communication, and leadership. He and Kerry explore the balance between technology and humanity in education, the promise of microschools in ESA states, and what it takes to build joyful learning environments that truly help children flourish. ***   Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!

Med-Tech Startup Reality Check: Capital, Competition & Life-Saving Innovation | Top Global StartupsJoin Eric Goslau, President & CEO of Transverse Medical (Series C stage), as he shares unfiltered insights from 30+ years navigating med-tech startup challenges - from competing with Big Corp incentives to defining "good enough" products that save lives.

So far this year, LA defense tech companies have raised $4 billion in funding — more than double last year's haul, according to Los Angeles Times tech reporter Queenie Wong. She told Marketplace's Nova Safo that venture capital firms are increasingly embracing military-focused tech.

So far this year, LA defense tech companies have raised $4 billion in funding — more than double last year's haul, according to Los Angeles Times tech reporter Queenie Wong. She told Marketplace's Nova Safo that venture capital firms are increasingly embracing military-focused tech.

In this inspiring episode, Anya Cheng shares her remarkable journey from a non-technical immigrant background to leading product and growth at giants like Facebook, eBay, Target, and McDonald's, and ultimately founding Taylor—an AI-driven menswear rental and styling service for busy professionals. Drawing from her experiences during the 2008 recession, Anya discusses overcoming job-hunting hurdles, the birth of Taylor from personal frustrations with fashion rentals, and how AI and human stylists combine to solve real pain points for ambitious men who prioritize success over style. She reveals growth strategies, lessons from big tech, and future plans for sustainability and corporate partnerships. Perfect for entrepreneurs, fashion innovators, and anyone navigating career pivots.Key MomentsHost welcomes Anya Cheng, highlighting her tech leadership at Facebook, eBay, and more. Anya introduces Taylor as an AI service that curates and rents real menswear for busy men, eliminating shopping and laundry.Anya shares how imposter syndrome as a female immigrant leader at eBay sparked Taylor. She hated subscription boxes and rental hassles, realizing fashion companies ignore practical users.Key Quote: "Most of fashion companies are designing for people who are into fashion, not for people like me. I just want to get ready for the day... Success for me is not about looking good. It's about looking good to get a job, get the deal."Fresh from Northwestern with a marketing master's, Anya ambushes recruiters, networks via professors, and cold-calls publishers amid layoffs—turning desperation into her first media role.Anya explains why she didn't quit: By leveraging her reporter skills (e.g., interviewing, cold-calling), challenges felt manageable, fueling hope.Two years in, Taylor's users aren't just renting clothes—they're buying "chances to succeed" (e.g., job interviews, deals). Customers value convenience like an "executive assistant," while suppliers seek detailed feedback to reduce waste.AI powers onboarding (quizzes, photos) and recommendations from 27,000 garments, with human stylists refining via Zoom/text. It even generates SEO content for trends.Partnerships with dating apps, fitness centers, law firms, and nonprofits outperform solo efforts. Content marketing educates on body types and travel perks (e.g., no luggage fees).From a Shopify waitlist, Anya manually bought/s shipped sale items from Macy's to her first eager customer (a real estate agent), validating demand and iterating 100 times.Big tech taught logical thinking (goals vs. strategies) to pitch investors. For Taylor, targeting men yields higher margins than women's rentals due to buy-through rates.Illustrate a clear problem/persona (e.g., men's convenience vs. women's variety). Nail one giant feature (like Google's search bar). 3) Focus on product-market fit over features.To learn more about Anya Cheng please visit her Linkedin ProfileTo learn more about  Taelor please visit her website.YOUR HOST - SIMON LADER    Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation.      Get to know more about Simon at:    Website: https://simonlader.com/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader/    The Conference Room is available onSpotifyApple podcastsAmazon MusicIHeartRadio

In this episode, we sit down with Cameron Lippert, co-founder of ElectraMet, and Chris Young, President of Bluegrass Angels, to explore how a hard-tech startup spun out of university research is solving one of industry's biggest challenges: removing metals and oxidants from wastewater. By turning costly waste streams into valuable resources, ElectraMet is helping critical sectors like semiconductors, mining, battery recycling, and defense.Expect to learn how university research in Kentucky sparked the idea that became ElectraMet, why early investors and mentors were crucial to navigating commercialization, how the team pivoted from desalination to metals recovery, and why ElectraMet's journey is a blueprint for the type of circular economy manufacturing that the GAME Change initiative aims to grow.Middle Tech is proudly supported by:KY Innovation → kyinnovation.comAwesome Inc → awesomeinc.org

In this inspiring episode of 'Raise Your Visibility Online,' LinkedIn expert and CEO Louise Brogan sits down with Lou Doyle, co-founder and CEO of Needi, a revolutionary corporate gifting concierge service that's transforming how businesses connect.Lou shares her remarkable entrepreneurial journey - from her early days in recruitment and traveling the world, to launching a cutting-edge tech company that blends psychology and AI to create meaningful corporate connections. Discover how she's tackling corporate waste while supporting local businesses through innovative gifting solutions.This episode is packed with actionable insights for business owners, industry experts, and aspiring entrepreneurs looking to leverage technology, build meaningful connections, and create sustainable business models that make a real impact.What You'll LearnHow to transition from traditional industries to tech entrepreneurshipThe psychology behind effective corporate gifting strategiesBuilding algorithms that create genuine human connectionsStrategies for reducing waste while growing your businessHow to leverage local partnerships for global impactThe importance of making recipients feel truly valuedPractical steps for building a tech-driven business from scratchCorporate gifting tactics that actually work for large organisationsKey TakeawaysThe Power of Connection: Learn why meaningful gifts foster stronger business relationships than generic corporate swagTech Meets Psychology: Discover how AI algorithms can be designed to understand human preferences and create personalized experiencesSustainable Business Models: See how reducing waste and supporting local businesses can be profitable growth strategiesEntrepreneurial Mindset: Understand the journey from employee to CEO and the mindset shifts required for successAbout Our GuestLou Doyle is the co-founder and CEO of Needi, a corporate gifting concierge service that's revolutionising how companies show appreciation and build connections. With a background in recruitment and a passion for technology and data, Lou has created an innovative platform that combines psychology with AI to deliver meaningful gifting experiences while supporting sustainability and local businesses.Episode Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Raise Your Visibility Online00:52 Meet Lou Doyle: Entrepreneur and Mom04:16 The Journey to Entrepreneurship06:39 The Birth of Needi: A Gifting Company13:27 Building a Tech-Driven Business16:32 Passion for Tech and Data17:10 The Power of Connection19:48 Building Needi from Scratch22:55 Corporate Gifting Strategies28:53 Future Growth and Global Expansion30:43 How to Connect with NeediConnect with Lou Doyle & Needilouise@needi.co.ukwww.needi.co.ukhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/louiseneedi/About the HostLouise Brogan is a LinkedIn expert, CEO, and host of 'Raise Your Visibility Online.' She helps business owners, industry experts, and entrepreneurs elevate their online presence and grow their ventures through strategic visibility and networking.Perfect ForBusiness owners looking to improve corporate relationshipsEntrepreneurs interested in tech startupsIndustry experts seeking innovative connection strategiesAnyone wanting to build a more sustainable business...

The justice-tech startup, LegalEase, is working to transform the expungement process. “Closer Look” host Rose Scott talks with LegalEase founders and Howard University alumni, Lawrence Blackmon and Roger Roman, about the inspiration behind the AI-powered web-based portal. They also share their ongoing efforts to expand the platform to Georgia and other states throughout the country. Plus, Ludacris, Future, Mary J. Blige, and The Roots are among some of the artists slated to take center stage at this year’s ONE Musicfest. In 2010, Jason "J" Carter launched the annual two-day festival that he says centers Black joy, culture, creativity, and music. Ahead of this year’s festival on October 25-26 at Piedmont Park, Carter joins “Closer Look” to talk more about the backstory of the festival.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lamia Rahman is a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, TEDx speaker, and co-founder of SEEKR, a tech startup creating wearable AI devices for the blind. In this inspiring episode, Lamia shares her journey from law school in Hong Kong to the front lines of legal tech, accessibility, and advocacy.LAWYER SIDE HUSTLESSEEKR began as a passion project and has since grown into a globally recognized AI startup. The company develops wearable devices that help blind and visually impaired users navigate the world more independently. Lamia co-founded SEEKR during her law degree, blending her passion for tech with her desire to serve.“It was a small idea at first. Now we're building something that's used across countries. That's wild,” Lamia Rahman shares in Episode 209 of You Are a LawyerMore than a “side hustle,” SEEKR is a mission-driven business, fueled by Lamia's belief that tech should be inclusive and empathetic. In the episode, she shares what it's like to build a team, pitch to investors, and develop AI that solves real-world problems, all while still figuring out what comes next in her legal career.LISTEN TO LEARNHow Lamia co-founded an AI startup that creates wearable tools for the blindWhy legal knowledge helps entrepreneurs navigate business growthHow public speaking and networking open unexpected career doorsWE ALSO DISCUSSHer experience studying law in Hong Kong as an international studentHow being a woman of color in tech and law shaped her journeyWays to combine social justice, accessibility, and innovationJoin the FREE mailing list!Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer. 1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!Interact with You Are A LawyerKyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyerWebsite: https://www.youarealawyer.com

AWS's Daniele Stroppa, Worldwide Technical Lead for AWS partners in retail, joins us to announce August's retail tech startup of the month: Vody. Daniele breaks down how Vody makes data ready for AI and AI agents through their intelligent data infrastructure solutions. Unlike typical approaches that tackle product discoverability with chatbots or search improvements, Vody addresses the challenge at its foundation – the data itself. Their sophisticated system transforms messy product catalogs into AI-optimized data using state-of-the-art multimodal large language models specifically fine-tuned for retail.

A trusted friend introduces Taylor to a man named Sylvein William Maximilian D'Habsburg XVII, a tech whiz and the inventor of a fascinating new robotic technology. His gigantic insect-like robots promise to be a game changer in military applications. He offers her what feels like the opportunity of a lifetime, getting in on the ground floor of this innovative tech, and she invests $50,000 of her inheritance. But the returns she is promised never materialize, and when she seeks to withdraw her funds, Sylvein makes excuses and reveals he's under investigation by the FBI. Ultimately, Sylvein pleads guilty to stealing nearly $6 million from investors, including many members of the local Filipino church community, and using the money to purchase luxury cars and rare antiques.

Send us a textFollow the hosts on Instagram @alonbenjoseph, @scarlintheshire, @davaucher and @robnudds.Thanks to @skillymusic for the theme tune.