Summary: In this conversation, Marcus Seoighe shares his journey from working at Shopify to becoming the CEO of Clean Canvas, a company specializing in Shopify themes. He discusses the evolution of Clean Canvas from a multi-service agency to a niche specialist, emphasizing the importance of focusing on a specific area to achieve success. The discussion also touches on the significance of market trends, and how partnerships and a strong team culture have contributed to their growth. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 02:49 Marcus's Journey from Shopify to Clean Canvas 06:00 The Evolution of Clean Canvas: From Multi-Service to Niche Specialists 08:57 Understanding Shopify Themes and Their Importance 11:32 Building Themes with Purpose 14:27 Optimizing User Experience and Performance 17:32 The Importance of Frameworks in Development 20:26 Trends and Insights in Cosmetics Theme Development 23:11 Growth Through Partnerships and Team Culture www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-seoighe www.cleancanvas.co.uk

Summary: In this episode, George Frodsham, founder and CEO of MediSieve, shares his journey in creating a deep tech company focused on innovative blood filtration technology. He discusses the personal experiences that inspired him, the complexities of developing new medical technologies, the challenges of securing funding, and the importance of building a dedicated team. George also emphasizes the future of precision medicine and the potential impact of their technology on patient care. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to MediSieve and George's Journey 04:43 The Personal Story Behind MediSieve 07:39 The Technology of Magnetic Blood Filtration 11:40 Navigating Regulatory Challenges in Biotech 20:36 Funding Challenges and Investor Relations 26:46 Building a High-Performance Team 34:39 The Future of MediSieve and Precision Medicine www.linkedin.com/in/george-frodsham-65a0b169 www.medisieve.com

Summary: In this conversation, Jules discusses the evolution of workspaces during COVID and the strategies for building a tech-focused team at Tally Workspace. The discussion also covers the future of hybrid work models, the importance of sustainability in workspace solutions, and the anticipated growth of co-working spaces. Jules emphasizes the need for flexibility in work arrangements and the increasing demand for quality office environments that cater to modern employee expectations. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Jules and Her Journey 05:00 The Birth of Tally Workspace: A New Workspace Concept 07:15 Lessons from Soldo: Conviction and Philosophy 18:12 Building a Tech-Focused Team 24:22 The Future of Office Spaces and Employee Expectations 30:03 Sustainability in Workspace Solutions 36:23 The Future of Co-Working and Tally's Growth www.linkedin.com/in/julestallyworkspace www.tallyworkspace.com

Summary: Greg discusses his journey from sales engineering to product management at Sprout AI, highlighting the importance of understanding customer needs while balancing innovation. He shares insights from his experience in a rapidly growing startup and the challenges faced in the insurance industry, particularly in implementing AI solutions. He also touches on cultural differences in business operations between the US and the UK, strategic growth approaches, and future plans for Sprout AI. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 05:14 Transition from Sales Engineering to Product Management 08:05 Balancing Customer Needs and Innovation 10:57 Lessons from Rapid Growth in Startups 14:12 Challenges in the Insurance Industry 17:06 Differentiating in a Competitive Landscape 19:54 Future of AI in InsurTech 23:10 Cultural Differences in Business Operations 25:58 Strategic Growth and Team Development 32:08 Looking Ahead: Future Plans for Sprout AI www.linkedin.com/in/greg-adams-378b7618 www.sprout.ai

Summary: Chris Jefferson, CTO and co-founder of Advai, discusses the founding of his company, which focuses on validating AI systems. He shares insights on the importance of having trustworthy co-founders, the challenges and opportunities presented by the pandemic, and the significance of understanding AI's limitations. Chris emphasizes the need for organizations to validate their AI systems, especially in regulated industries, and offers practical advice for implementing AI effectively. He also touches on the impact of the EU AI Act and the unique journey of bootstrapping Advai without external funding. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Advai and Chris Jefferson 04:39 Founding Story of Advai 07:43 The Importance of Co-Founders 10:36 Navigating The Pandemic: Opportunities and Challenges 13:41 Breaking, not making AI: Advai's Mission 16:52 The importance of Validating AI Systems 19:54 Challenges in AI Implementation 22:50 Advice for Implementing AI Effectively 25:42 Sector-Specific Needs in AI 28:42 Impact of the EU AI Act 31:14 Bootstrapping Advai: Growth Without External Funding 34:10 Future Directions for Advai www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jefferson-3b43291a www.advai.com

Summary: In this episode, Paul Lehair, a partner at AlbionVC, shares insights into his journey from tech and finance to venture capital. He discusses the unique structure of Albion's evergreen fund, the current market trends in early-stage investments, and strategies for startups looking to expand globally. Paul also provides valuable advice for founders aiming to transition from seed funding to Series A, emphasizing the importance of traction and storytelling in fundraising. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 04:56 AlbionVC: Focus on B2B Software and Evergreen Funds 11:18 Market Activity and Global Expansion 15:17 Tips for Global Expansion 18:22 Importance of Co-Founders in Global Expansion 20:55 Transitioning from Seed Stage to Series A 23:02 Key Factors for Series A Success www.linkedin.com/in/paullehair www.albion.vc

Summary: In this conversation, Richard Rutter, co-founder of Clearleft, discusses the evolution of UX design, the importance of typography, and how design can influence business strategy. He emphasizes the need for a deep understanding of user experience and the role of research in effective design. Richard also shares insights on building a successful design consultancy and integrating design thinking into organizational strategy, while addressing the impact of AI on the design landscape. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Clear Left and Richard Rutter 03:38 The Importance of Typography in Design 07:57 Evolution of UX Design Over the Years 13:44 Understanding User Experience vs. User Interface 19:57 Design as a Business Strategy 25:53 Keys to Success in Design Consultancy 31:55 Integrating Design into Organizational Strategy 37:48 The Future of Design in the Age of AI www.linkedin.com/in/richardrutter www.clearleft.com

Summary: Kristin Dorsett, Chief Product Officer at Viator, shares her journey from managing call center agents to leading product and engineering teams. She discusses Viator's growth post-COVID, the challenges and benefits of remote work, and the importance of building a diverse and dispersed team. Kristin emphasizes the need for a customer-centric approach in product development and the significance of cross-functional collaboration. She also highlights her hiring strategies focused on cultural fit and passion, and outlines Viator's future strategies to enhance customer experience through technology and innovation. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background of Kristin Dorsett 05:37 Viator's Growth and Market Position 08:29 Building a Dispersed Global Team 11:38 Embracing Remote Work and Its Challenges 14:29 Merging Product and Engineering Functions 17:35 Customer-Centric Product Development 20:37 Cross-Functional Collaboration and Team Dynamics 23:37 Hiring the Right People and Cultural Fit 26:29 Future Strategies for Viator www.linkedin.com/in/kristindorsett/ www.viator.com/

Summary: Tom shares his journey from a corporate recruitment background to launching his tech startup, Koios. He discusses the challenges and opportunities of transitioning from large organisations to a startup environment, the intricacies of global recruitment, and the innovative use of psychometrics in understanding human behavior. Tom emphasizes the importance of building a lean team, navigating the fundraising landscape, and the future goals of Koios, particularly in developing emotionally intelligent AI technology. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 04:24 Transitioning from Recruitment to Tech Startups 11:26 Cultural Differences in Global Recruitment 20:22 The Genesis of Koios and Entrepreneurial Spirit 28:19 Stealth Mode and Product Development 32:11 The Future of Conversational AI 43:50 Looking Ahead: Goals and Aspirations www.linkedin.com/in/tom-sherwood1/ www.getkoios.ai/

Summary: Alan shares his journey from starting in IT to becoming the CTO of LeftBrain, a workplace technology consultancy. He discusses the importance of empathy in technology, the evolving role of AI in business, and how LeftBrain aims to be a strategic partner for its clients. Alan also opens up about his experiences with imposter syndrome and the culture at LeftBrain that fosters growth and adaptability. The conversation concludes with Alan's vision for the future of LeftBrain and its commitment to providing value to clients. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 10:30 LeftBrain's Role in Technology Consulting 20:21 Navigating AI and Technology Trends 29:48 The Importance of Adaptability in Business 33:21 Future Aspirations for Left Brain www.linkedin.com/in/alanavins/ www.leftbrain.io/

Summary: Dan Roberts, founder of Nayms, shares his unique journey from starting consumer goods businesses to creating a blockchain-based insurance platform. He discusses the challenges and opportunities in transitioning industries, the importance of building a strong team culture in a remote work environment, and the evolving landscape of fundraising. Dan also highlights the future of blockchain technology in the insurance sector and how it can enhance efficiency and transparency. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 05:19 Entrepreneurial Journey and Transition 12:27 Building a Remote-First Team 22:26 The Future of Insurance 28:20 The Power of Convenience 37:16 The Intersection of Blockchain and Insurance www.linkedin.com/in/danielajroberts www.nayms.com

Summary: Jinesh Vohra, Founder and CEO of Sprive App, shares his journey from investment banking to entrepreneurship, driven by a desire to help homeowners manage their mortgages more effectively. He discusses the inspiration behind Sprive, its innovative features that allow users to pay off their mortgages faster, and the company's growth strategies. Jinesh also addresses the challenges faced in the fintech space and outlines the revenue model that supports Sprive's sustainability. He emphasizes the importance of community impact and the future vision for the company. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 04:27 The Inspiration for Sprive 09:00 Helping Homeowners Find Spare Cash 10:19 Shop and Earn with Sprive App 18:48 Scaling Through Television Advertising 29:44 Future Plans: Expanding Services and Giving Customers a Voice www.linkedin.com/in/jinesh-vohra/ www.sprive.com

Summary: In this episode, Rowan discusses his role as CTO at Tewke, a company focused on revolutionizing home energy management through innovative technology. He shares insights into the development of smart grid solutions, the importance of user experience in product design, and the challenges of building trust in smart home technology. Rowan also highlights the significance of integrating hardware and software, the recognition Tewke has received for its design, and the company's future plans for product development and expansion. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 02:24 Rowan's Background and Journey to Tewke 04:24 Seizing Opportunities and Learning from Mistakes 09:10 The Value of Networking and Luck 10:37 The Journey to Tewke and the Impact of COVID-19 12:32 Introduction to Tewke and their Vision 17:24 Tewke's Focus on Energy 24:31 Innovative Design and Display 32:09 Security and Data Control 39:09 Recognition and Awards 50:20 Future Plans and Expansion www.linkedin.com/in/rowan-dixon/ www.tewke.com/

Summary: Julia Sinclair, Head of Product at Capital Rise, discusses her background in engineering and how she transitioned into product management. Julia also talks about the challenges and opportunities of working in a regulated industry, and how Capital Rise prioritises customer experience. She highlights the use of data and insights to inform decision-making and improve the user experience. Julia also shares her passion for singing and how it brings a different perspective and creativity to her work. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:56 Transition from Engineering to Product Management 06:19 Working in a Regulated Industry 09:35 Prioritising Customer Experience 14:42 Using Data and Insights 20:38 Balancing Compliance and Innovation 28:08 Human-Centric Approach 32:36 Educating Customers and Democratizing Property Investment 36:38 Finding Balance and Sparking Creativity www.linkedin.com/in/julia-sinclair-80750a14b/ www.capitalrise.com/

Summary: Jonathan, the founder of Mountside Ventures, discusses the challenges of fundraising for both founders and VC funds. He emphasizes the importance of preparation, spreading investor conversations strategically, and targeting the right investors. He also highlights the need for founders to determine their goals and the type of investor they want to work with. Jonathan provides tips for creating a sense of urgency during fundraising, such as responding to investor requests promptly, sharing good news regularly, and meeting investors in person. He also explains the key elements of term sheets and recommends resources for further information. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background of Mountside Ventures 02:23 The Gap in Fundraising and Launching Mountside Ventures 03:20 Challenges of Fundraising for Founders and VCs 06:39 Tips for Successful Fundraising 11:43 Creating Urgency and FOMO in Fundraising 15:24 Understanding and Negotiating Term Sheets www.linkedin.com/in/jhjhollis www.mountsideventures.com

Summary: In this podcast episode, Harris Wellner, Operating Partner at Cadenza, discusses his background in the investment world and the focus of Cadenza's portfolio. He highlights the importance of blockchain technology in emerging markets and the potential for digital assets to provide solutions for hyperinflation and restricted monetary policies. Wellner also shares insights into what makes startups successful, including the importance of assembling a world-class team and choosing the right investors. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the goal of returning DPI (Distributed Performance Index) to investors. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:32 Exploring the Potential of Blockchain in Emerging Markets 11:50 The Key Factors for Startup Success 18:23 The Role of Investors in Startup Growth 19:29 Working Towards Returning DPI to Investors www.linkedin.com/in/harris-wellner www.cadenza.vc

Summary: In this episode, Seth Spergel discusses his background in investing in cybersecurity and the establishment of Merlin Ventures. He explains the unique ecosystem in Israel that has led to a concentration of cybersecurity startups and a high acquisition rate. Seth also shares how Merlin Ventures is bridging the gap between Israeli startups and the US market through their Israeli Startup Advisory Network. He highlights the importance of AI in addressing budget and staffing pressures in the cybersecurity space. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 07:41 The Concentration of Cybersecurity Companies in Israel 12:29 Strategies for Penetrating the US Market 18:27 The Acquisition Rate of Israeli Cybersecurity Companies 20:10 Trends in the Cybersecurity Space 22:29 The Role of AI in Cybersecurity www.linkedin.com/in/sethspergel https://www.merlin.vc

Summary: In this conversation, Sam Wen discusses his background in engineering and his experience at Square before joining Green Visor Capital Management. He explains the incentives in venture capital and how these drive VC decisions. Sam also shares his thoughts on promoting diversity and inclusion in the tech industry, emphasizing the importance of outreach and creating an inclusive environment. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 07:45 Understanding the Incentives in Venture Capital 13:33 Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in the Tech Industry 24:27 Overcoming Societal Norms and Biases www.linkedin.com/in/samwen www.greenvisorcapital.com

Summary: Marcos Fernandez, the managing partner of Fiat Ventures, discusses his background in the investment world and the type of investments that Fiat Ventures makes. He emphasizes the importance of disqualifying VCs early on in the fundraising process and asks qualifying questions to ensure a good fit. Marcos also talks about the transparency between founders and VCs and the long-term relationship that is formed. He shares insights into the criteria Fiat Ventures uses to select investments and the process of raising funds from LPs. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 07:35 Disqualifying VCs: The Importance of Asking Qualifying Questions 13:36 Portfolio Construction in Venture Capital: Criteria for Selecting Investments 19:07 How to Build Funds www.linkedin.com/in/marcosfernandez0401 www.fiat.vc

Summary: Harry, the co-founder of Spacebands, shares his journey of starting a wearable tech company focused on workplace safety. He discusses his background in FMCG and how the idea for Spacebands came about during the pandemic. Harry explains the challenges of developing hardware and software and the importance of customer feedback in shaping their product. He also talks about their funding journey, including raising money from angel investors and venture capitalists. The vision for Spacebands is to be worn by every construction and manufacturing employee worldwide, with a focus on reducing workplace hazards. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 04:53 Pivoting from FMCG to Wearable Tech 10:28 Challenges of Funding a Hardware and Software Business 14:38 Being Customer-Led in Product Development 20:33 Vetting Investors and Building Relationships 25:06 Investor Relations and Growth Journey 31:35 Unique Selling Proposition and Vision www.linkedin.com/in/harrykimberley-bowen www.spacebands.com

Summary: Karla Mora, founder and managing partner of Alante Capital, shares her journey from being a development economist to becoming an impact investor. She discusses the importance of understanding the cultural context and impact of the products being invested in. She emphasizes the need for open communication and strong relationships with founders. She advises early-stage founders to carefully choose their investors and do reference checks. She also highlights the importance of understanding the stage of the fund and whether it is still deploying capital. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 07:11 Entrepreneurship and Investing 12:48 Influence of a Diverse Background on Investment Strategy 14:52 Building Strong Relationships with Founders 18:23 Tips for Early-Stage Founders Seeking Capital www.linkedin.com/in/karla-mora-9295924a www.alantecapital.com

Summary: Henrik, a general partner at Playfair, a pre-seed fund investing across Europe, discusses his high-conviction investment strategy and how he works closely with startups to help them grow. He also talks about Playfair's initiative to support female founders and increase diversity in the venture world. Henrik emphasizes the importance of due diligence in making investment decisions and shares the process they follow to assess startups' potential for success. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:27 Playfair's High Conviction Investment Strategy 09:34 Supporting Female Founders: Playfair's Diversity Initiative 16:29 The Importance of Due Diligence in Venture Capital www.linkedin.com/in/henrik-wetter-sanchez www.playfair.vc www.playfair.vc/community

Summary: Antonio discusses the founding of Yurtle and how it evolved into a platform that supports caregivers. He shares personal experiences with caregiving and the challenges faced by caregivers. Yurtle offers an insurance product that provides continuity of care and backup professional care for caregivers. Yurtle also has an app that helps caregivers coordinate and share the care with their family, friends, and professionals. Antonio emphasizes the importance of personalisation and empathy in the insurance industry and the need to support caregivers in the workplace. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and the Story of Yurtle 05:12 The Business Model and Supporting Caregivers 08:02 The Yurtle App and Personalisation 13:07 The Importance of Trust and Empathy in the Insurance Industry 29:27 Supporting Caregivers in the Workplace 32:49 Measuring Impact and Future Plans www.linkedin.com/in/antonio-ribeiro-97919980 www.yurtle.co.uk

Summary Sam, a partner at EOS Ventures, discusses their focus on insurance technology and their global presence. They invest in Series A companies and work closely with investors from the insurance sector to create synergies. Sam highlights the trends and transformations in the insurtech sector, including the shift towards profitable growth, improved distribution models, and the maturity of companies. He also discusses the challenges faced by insurtech companies in raising funds and navigating the market. EOS Ventures provides support and guidance to their portfolio companies through their extensive network. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to EOS Ventures and Insurance Technology 03:04 Trends and Transformations in the Insuretech Sector 06:08 InsureTech 1.0 vs InsureTech 2.0 Business Models 10:11 Challenges and Opportunities in Raising Funds for Insuretech Companies 13:55 Supporting Insuretech Companies: EOS Ventures' Approach

Summary Jonathan discusses his career journey and the work of his company, 4 Earth Intelligence (4EI), which focuses on using satellite data for monitoring and analyzing various aspects of the Earth. He explains how they turn satellite imagery into reliable and transparent data that can be used for monitoring and setting targets in areas like climate finance and emissions reduction. Jonathan also talks about the use of AI in their processes and the importance of collaboration and effective management in a global and diverse team. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Career Journey 02:53 Using Satellites for Monitoring and Setting Targets 07:01 Analyzing Methane Emissions and Impact 21:48 Fostering Collaboration and Effective Management in a Global Team 24:42 Managing People in Different Locations and Cultures 30:24 Creating Space for Collaboration and Effective Management 30:51 Future Plans for 4EI

Summary Brett Brohl, the Managing Director of Bread and Butter Ventures, discusses his journey into the investment world and the focus of his fund on food tech and digital health. He explains how Minnesota, with its expertise in the food industry, became the epicenter of enterprise food and why they invest in the verticals they do. Brett also talks about the importance of building a network and leveraging relationships with big enterprises in the food sector. He shares insights on the different types of investors and the value of smart money in startups. Additionally, he discusses his involvement in Techstars' food tech accelerator program and highlights the trends and opportunities in the food tech market, including labor-focused solutions, vertical SaaS, and FinTech for the food system. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:28 Focus on Food Tech and Digital Health in Minnesota 08:57 Types of Investors and the Value of Smart Money 11:56 Techstars' Food Tech Accelerator Program 14:04 Trends and Opportunities in the Food Tech Market

Tyler co-founder of Restive Ventures, shares his journey in the investment world and the focus of his firm. He discusses the current market trends and the increase in deals being done. Tyler emphasizes the importance of understanding and navigating the regulatory landscape in the fintech industry. He explains how Restive Ventures supports its portfolio companies in meeting regulatory requirements and building relationships with incumbents. Tyler also discusses the balance between early revenue generation and growth, highlighting the need for startups to focus on building a responsible product and generating revenue. He advises founders to prioritize team and culture from the early stages of their business. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:39 Current Market Trends and Deals 05:28 Navigating the Regulatory Landscape in Fintech 09:34 Building Relationships with Incumbents in the Industry 20:49 The Importance of Team and Culture in Startups

Jade Cohen, co-founder and CPO of Qualis Flow, discusses her background and the journey of building a problem-first tech business in the construction industry. She emphasizes the importance of proving the concept with a scrappy MVP and securing early revenue to overcome obstacles. Jade also shares her experiences as a female founder in a male-dominated industry and the importance of finding investors who align with the company's mission. She explains how AI is being used in Qflow to monitor material flows and reduce carbon emissions in construction. Jade discusses the future plans of expanding globally and leveraging data to support circularity in the industry. Chapters 00:00 Jade's Background and the Journey of Building a Problem-First Tech Business 03:47 Challenges and Lessons Learned as Non-Tech Founders 08:22 Navigating Funding as Female Founders in a Male-Dominated Industry 15:21 The Role of AI in Monitoring Material Flows and Reducing Carbon Emissions 25:17 Considering the Cost and Impact of AI and Software 28:06 Future Plans: Global Expansion and Leveraging Data for Circularity

Rory Stirling, a partner at Connect Ventures, shares his journey into the investment world and discusses the changing landscape of venture capital. He emphasizes the importance of choosing the right investor and building a long-term relationship based on shared values and vision. Stirling also highlights the increasing competition in the industry and the need for differentiation through specialization. He touches on the impact of AI and other emerging technologies on the tech world and identifies exciting trends in areas such as biology, finance, and climate. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:04 Choosing the Right Investor 08:00 Competition and Better Product Offerings 12:12 The Transformative Potential of AI 15:03 Differentiation Through Specialization

Summary: Jonathan Horn, the founder and CEO of Treefera, discussed his background in physics, fluid dynamics, and risk evaluation in investment banking before starting Treefera. Treefera focuses on understanding nature-based assets like trees, algae, and kelp to combat the negative effects of industrialisation and climate change. By providing data-driven insights, Treefera aims to attract capital and drive real-world decarbonisation efforts in various industries like supply chain, regenerative agriculture, biofuels, and carbon markets. The company's guiding principles of rigour, immersion, frugality, and curiosity shape its mission to make data discoverable, understandable, and trustworthy for clients. Moving forward, Treefera plans to expand its platform to include more assets like algae blooms and methane from landfills while enhancing accessibility for a broader audience. [00:02:43] Big Data Group and Machine Learning. [00:06:01] Nature-based assets and decarbonization. [00:11:13] Sustainable farming practices. [00:13:17] Trust and transparency through data. [00:19:07] The negative effect of AI. [00:22:46] AI consumption problem solution. [00:26:48] Building balanced teams for success. [00:28:29] Building a Strong Team Dynamic. [00:32:26] Sustainable sourcing of alternative materials.

In this episode, Corey, a guest from Great Colorado VC, shares his journey from being a founder of a ski locker company to venturing into the investment world. He discusses how he transitioned from working in an accelerator program to raising his first pre-seed fund in the Rocky Mountain region. Corey's story highlights an alternative path to venture capital, emphasizing the importance of building a network and raising funds from high net worth individuals. Join us as we delve into Corey's unique path in the investment world and the work of Great Colorado VC. [00:02:32] Focused investing in rural Colorado. [00:06:02] Diverse Investment Portfolio. [00:10:09] Startup funding challenges and innovation. [00:12:47] Key takeaways from failures. [00:17:16] Long-term relationship with investors.

Summary Rajiv Roy shares his journey from engineering to investment, and the unique approach of Three Lines in the investment world. He discusses the company's growth, focus on technology companies, and the significance of AI in their investment strategy. Additionally, he delves into the criteria for seed-level investments, the importance of ARR in investment strategy, and the deal screening process. Chapters 00:00 Rajiv's Journey and Three Lines' Approach 03:26 The Role of Technology and AI in Investment Strategy 07:24 The Significance of ARR in Investment Strategy 13:18 Insights into the Deal Screening Process https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajivroy/

In this episode, Zara discusses her transition from a career in finance to founding MyPocketSkill. She reflects on her background as an investment analyst and how her upbringing influenced her financial knowledge. Zara and her co-founder, both parents to teenagers, share the inspiration behind starting MyPocketSkill, a FinTech platform. Tune in to learn more about Zara's journey and the mission of MyPocketSkill in empowering young individuals with financial skills. [00:02:58] Financial capability. [00:06:03] Financial education empowerment. [00:08:52] Gen Z and financial future. [00:13:36] Financial habits and young generation. [00:19:26] Expanding into the U.S. market. [00:23:07] Women in Innovation Award. [00:26:17] Gender investment gap and solutions. [00:29:48] Side hustle for financial education. https://www.linkedin.com/in/zara-ransley-148ab87/ https://www.mypocketskill.com/

In the podcast, Maina Murage from Norrsken22 highlighted the pivotal role of Fintech, Health Tech, and EdTech sectors in propelling transformation across Africa, addressing unique challenges and opportunities on the continent. Venture capital in Africa has seen significant growth in recent years, surpassing $5 billion in investments. However, as discussed in the podcast episode, the market faces challenges such as currency fluctuations and regulatory complexities. Tune in to hear all about it Introduction and Background: 00:00:01-00:00:51 Venture Capital Landscape in Africa: 00:02:52-00:04:55 Investment Strategies and Challenges: 00:06:02-00:07:40 Market Insights and Investment Opportunities: 00:09:55-00:10:17 Fintech Innovations in Africa: 00:10:36-00:12:56 Health Tech and Ed Tech Transformations: 00:14:02-00:16:41 Sustainable Investing Practices: 00:17:22-00:19:12 Closing Remarks and Future Outlook: 00:19:22-00:20:16

In this episode, Rob Bibow, Managing Partner at Parkway VC, shares insights into his background and journey in the investment world. With over 30 years of experience and investments in over 60 companies, including well-known ones like Lyft, What3words and Mobileye, Rob delves into his role at Parkway Venture Capital, managing half a billion dollars in deep tech investments, particularly focusing on artificial intelligence. Tune in to learn more about Rob's fascinating career and investment strategies. [00:03:36] Humanoid robotics in the workforce. [00:03:57] The benefits of automation. [00:08:35] Private equity approach. [00:13:56] Robot advancements in AI. [00:17:19] The rise of industrial robots. [00:21:23] Post-Quantum Encryption [00:25:39] Quantum Sensing for Medical Purposes. [00:26:21] AI and data analysis.

In the podcast episode, Iestyn Keyes discusses the future of e-commerce, highlighting the importance of AI and data compliance. The conversation delves into the potential of AI personal shoppers and dynamic pricing based on supply and demand. Iestyn emphasises the need for businesses to focus on the basics of e-commerce, such as product data organisation and customer experience. The discussion also touches on the impact of AI on customer shopping behaviours and the role of technology in driving sustainable consumerism. Overall, the podcast provides insights into the evolving landscape of e-commerce and the strategies businesses can adopt to stay ahead in the market. [00:02:23] Innovative loyalty program. [00:06:28] E-commerce evolution and groceries online. [00:10:09] Replatforming challenges. [00:13:26] Perception of SaaS platforms. [00:15:21] International growth in fashion industry. [00:20:30] AI in e-commerce. [00:22:37] The impact of AI on strategy. [00:26:42] Predicting consumer preferences. [00:30:38] Consistent messaging for customer retention. [00:35:33] AI and dynamic pricing. [00:36:29] Balancing supply and demand sustainably.

In this podcast episode, Raphael discusses the exciting trends and opportunities in the space industry. He highlights the shift towards leveraging unique conditions in space, such as microgravity, to develop innovative technologies like growing human organ tissue. The conversation also touches on the increasing government support for the space sector, emphasizing its strategic importance, especially in light of recent geopolitical events. Raphael showcases examples of diverse investments in space technology, ranging from Earth observation to satellite communication advancements. The discussion underscores the growing interest from both private investors and governments, signalling a promising future for the space industry. [00:01:26] Space-focused venture capital firm. [00:05:23] Non-technical roles in space sector. [00:07:24] Space biotech in microgravity. [00:11:49] Space exploration advancements. [00:15:32] Investment trends in space industry. [00:17:12] Government Support in Space Sector.

Summary: Krish, an investment partner at Harmonix Fund, delves into the world of venture capital investment strategies, emphasising the importance of technical domain know-how in sectors like healthcare, life sciences, and deep tech. He highlights the challenges faced by emerging manager funds in proving their concept and generating sustainable returns. Krish provides strategic advice on pitching to VCs, focusing on building relationships and presenting a compelling narrative that resonates with investors. He stresses the significance of due diligence on investors to ensure a fruitful long-term partnership. Krish's raw insights based on personal experiences offer valuable lessons for founders navigating the complex landscape of venture capital funding. [00:00:32] Venture capital investment strategies. [00:05:43] Emerging manager funds challenges. [00:08:05] Pitching to VCs strategically. [00:11:37] Crafting a Compelling Narrative. [00:15:30] Due diligence on investors. [00:16:54] Raw insight into personal experiences.

In this episode, Louis, Head of Product Design at YLD, shares his journey from studying interior architecture to working in recruitment and eventually landing in the digital consultancy industry. He discusses how YLD helps clients with designing products, software engineering, and user-centric focused products. Tune in to learn about Louis's background and his insights into the industry. Timestamp: [00:01:14] From interior architect to digital design. [00:05:38] Prototyping for effective communication. [00:07:23] Discovering the world of UX. [00:11:33] Career progression and patience. [00:15:38] Leadership and Team Dynamics. [00:19:23] Embracing bottom-up culture in business. [00:24:27] Challenges of merging companies. [00:29:03] Navigating business shifts for growth. [00:30:37] AI and office trends. [00:33:47] Understanding the impact of AI.

In this episode, Mark shares his journey from being an entrepreneur in the fintech industry to starting up Las Olas, a unique investment fund. He talks about his experience raising capital, taking a company public, and transitioning to angel investing. Mark and his partner decided to professionalize their angel investing, leading to the creation of Las Olas. Tune in to learn more about Mark's entrepreneurial background and the innovative approach of Las Olas in the investment world. Timestamps: [00:01:26] Entrepreneurial journey and angel investing. [00:06:41] Importance of company's location. [00:09:37] Remote vs. in-person dynamics. [00:10:40] Venture capital essentials. [00:14:45] Navigating growth for startups. [00:17:48] Insights into talent selection.

Keith Bank, founder of KB Partners, shares his journey from real estate to venture capital over 28 years in the industry. Starting as an angel investor during the early days of the internet and cell phone technology, he saw a need for more venture capital in Chicago and the Midwest. Despite initial doubts, Keith took the leap into VC in 1996 and hasn't looked back. Tune in to hear about his transition, early lessons learned, and insights gained along the way. Timestamp; [00:02:01] Early stage venture capital insights. [00:06:03] The sports and wellness ecosystem. [00:10:27] Choosing the right investment partner. [00:13:17] Importance of building relationships. [00:15:08] Entrepreneurial mindset and perseverance.

In this episode, Neil Keegan, founder of Marlinspike, shares his journey from being a Naval officer to establishing a venture capital firm focused on aerospace and defense technology. He discusses his background, experiences, and the inspiration behind starting Marlinspike. Neil highlights the thrill of supporting bold founders using disruptive technology to revolutionize industries, exemplified by their investment in SpaceX. Join us to explore the exciting world of venture capital and bold entrepreneurship with Neil Keegan on the Investor miniseries. Timestamp: [00:03:03] Dual use in investments. [00:03:45] Military and commercial technology evolution. [00:08:28] Innovating in Defense Technology. [00:12:13] Leveraging networks for investments. [00:19:14] Defense technology trends. [00:19:47] Wrapping up the conversation. Links to invested companies: SpaceX: https://www.spacex.com/ Palantir: https://www.palantir.com/ Anduril: https://www.anduril.com/ Shield AI: https://shield.ai/ Armada: https://www.armada.ai/ Vatn Systems: https://www.vatnsystems.com/   Marlinspike website: https://marlinspike.us/ Marlinspike LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/marlinspike Neil Keegan’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neil-keegan-7a845866/  

From mechanical engineering to CTO of Tickitto, Elie shares his journey into the tech space with Rupert. Despite starting in a different field, Elie's passion for programming led him to pivot his career. The discussion touches on challenges faced along the way and the rapid progression in Elie's career. Tune in to hear how Elie's determination and love for technology shaped his professional path. [00:02:29] Career challenges in tech transition. [00:05:33] Stand out in interviews. [00:08:18] Real-world industry experience. [00:12:29] Importance of timekeeping. [00:20:17] Challenges of working in startups. [00:21:28] Hiring self-starters in startups. [00:27:01] Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning [00:30:55] AI integration in engineering.

In this episode, we speak to Will Turner, Co-Founder of tech wellness company GoJoe. Will discusses his background in law before co-founding a tech business. We talk about his journey from practising law to working with the British Olympic team, where their passion for sport and tech intersected. The conversation delves into the transition from a legal career to entrepreneurship, highlighting the evolution of his interests and professional trajectory. TimeStamp; [00:02:19] Frustrated lawyers with ideas. [00:06:36] Social accountability. [00:09:57] Bringing Olympic experience to tech. [00:13:14] Letting go of tasks. [00:14:17] Hiring for attitude over aptitude. [00:18:34] Working with big companies. [00:23:35] Funding and raising money. [00:27:30] Product-led growth and automation. [00:29:03] Consumerizing the product for growth.

Today on the podcast, we had Stewart Reynolds, the COO and co-founder of Shopblocks, a company that builds e-commerce platforms for businesses of all sizes. Stewart shared his journey into entrepreneurship, insights on their hiring process, adapting through investment rounds, and what's next for their business and e-commerce. Tune in for valuable information on hiring practices and business strategies! Timestamps: [00:02:23] Long-standing friendship turned business venture. [00:05:57] Identifying your hedgehog moment. [00:07:42] The birth of Linked Accounts. [00:13:18] Entrepreneurial motivation. [00:15:34] Leadership and team building. [00:18:40] Building companies for humans. [00:22:41] Recruitment strategies and growth. [00:25:20] The psychology of recruitment. [00:29:10] Challenges of managing stakeholders. [00:32:49] Board composition and dynamics. [00:37:25] Emerging markets and growth. [00:38:27] From startup to big conference.

In this episode, Sunil shares his unique journey into product management, from starting as an intern to becoming the first product manager at Hubble. He delves into his experience setting up a table tennis league for companies like WeWork and Monzo, highlighting how these experiences led him to co-found Magic AI. Sunil's passion for table tennis shines through, showcasing his drive to excel both in sports and in the tech industry. Tune in to learn more about Sunil's background and the fascinating intersection of fitness and AI in his work at Magic AI. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suniljindal21/ Timestamps: [00:02:05] Incorporating technology into fitness. [00:05:55] A challenging journey. [00:07:55] Learning through entrepreneurial failures. [00:12:43] Fitness mirror with AI technology. [00:15:01] Using data for personalized audio. [00:21:05] Table tennis and stress relief. [00:25:08] Importance of work-life balance. [00:28:33] Personalized workout experiences. [00:30:10] Amazing feedback and endorsements.

In this episode, Christopher Brennan, Co-Founder at Overtone discusses his journey from being a journalist covering tech and data privacy issues in Europe to transitioning into building tech products like language models for content recommendation systems. Christopher shares insights from his experience working in journalism and academia, highlighting the shift from reporting on AI to actively developing technology in the field. For all of this and loads more, tune in now. Timestamps; [00:01:07] Data privacy and AI emergence. [00:06:35] Algorithms and social media impact. [00:10:37] AI translating complex language. [00:12:22] News avoidance in the digital age. [00:17:28] Misinformation in media outlets. [00:22:43] AI impact on journalism. [00:26:16] Information overload and infodemic. [00:27:40] The economics of online content. [00:32:12] The future of advertising industry. [00:35:44] The positives of technology.

In this week's episode we speak to Steve Dietz, VP of Product Management at HqO. Steve talks about how he's navigated multiple mergers & acquisitions in the business' that he's worked for, learning to trust your gut and some of the key principals to product success. [00:03:34] Falling in love with product management. [00:06:47] Building a business passion. [00:10:22] Path to product management. [00:13:32] Startups losing too much money. [00:17:01] Balancing customer needs with profitability. [00:19:05] Importance of playing sales role. [00:25:46] Importance of fieldwork for PMs. [00:28:34] Learning by doing and failing. [00:30:57] Learning from failures and experience. [00:36:43] Successful acquisitions strategies. [00:39:01] Importance of team collaboration. [00:42:22] Trusting your gut in decisions. https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-dietz-product/

In this episode we are joined by Neil Smith, Co-Founder of mens mental health app Mettle. We talk all about Neils journey from TV Production to running a tech buisness. As well as this we talk about the stigma behind mens mental health and what Neil and is team at Mettle are doing to break these barriers. https://www.linkedin.com/in/neil-smith-2a5ab64/ [00:04:00] Second mountain theory [00:06:36] Changing perceptions through survival challenges. [00:07:40] Male mental health awareness. [00:13:35] Meditation and Breathwork Journeys. [00:17:44] Breaking barriers in mental health. [00:20:28] Men's mental health stigma. [00:25:19] Building strong partnerships. [00:28:55] Harnessing technology for mental fitness. [00:30:53] Building Mental Wellness Habits [00:37:07] Men's mental health crisis. [00:41:20] A variety of mental health methods. [00:42:11] Finding joy in simplicity.

In this episode, we talk to Scott Johnston, CPO at Code for America about his journey as a Product Leader. This one is jam-packed with stories that will inspire you to be at your best. From working with Google, getting fired by Sergey Brin (and re-hired) and surviving cancer, it really has got it all. https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottjohnston/ [00:03:23] Impact of product management on users. [00:06:32] Alleviating poverty and improving services. [00:09:46] Evolution of file storage. [00:15:26] Thinking 100 years ahead. [00:18:31] Leadership and firing at Google. [00:24:14] Managing Upwards [00:27:29] Building and cancelling product launch. [00:30:11] Managing bills and puppy mishap. [00:36:01] The importance of technology in education. [00:41:30] Impact of technology on education. [00:44:28] Surviving cancer and leadership insights. [00:49:35] Jobs defining personal identity.