The Startup Podcast

The Startup Podcast

By Yaniv Bernstein, Chris Saad

A guide to the unique mindset and approach that drives Silicon Valley style disruption.

Build product, raise money, and scale your startup like the best. TSP hosts Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein share practical advice based on decades of experience at Google, Uber, and their own startups.
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Insiders React: China Retaliates Against NVIDIA Embargo + US Startups in Crisis, Google Faces Legal Heat

The Startup PodcastApr 24, 2025
00:00
39:05
Insiders React: Cloudflare Makes AI Pay + Figma Files For IPO, Grammarly Buys Superhuman

Insiders React: Cloudflare Makes AI Pay + Figma Files For IPO, Grammarly Buys Superhuman

What happens when the internet starts charging AI to crawl its content?

And can legacy tools like Figma or Grammarly survive the AI age, or will they be replaced by smarter, faster upstarts?


In this episode, Yaniv Bernstein and Chris Saad break down some of the most important shifts in tech and business right now. From Cloudflare’s launch of AI pay-per-crawl to Grammarly’s bold acquisitions and Figma’s high-stakes IPO, this is an unfiltered look at how the AI boom is reshaping product strategy, startup success, and even the global order. Plus, they react to legendary VC Vinod Khosla’s explosive predictions about automation, abundance, and the role of China in AI soft power.


In this episode, you will:

  • Discover why Cloudflare’s 402 status code could transform AI data scraping and web monetization
  • Understand Grammarly’s plan to stay relevant with the acquisitions of Superhuman and Coda
  • Explore how Figma’s IPO could signal the return of the public tech market—and why it’s risky
  • Evaluate the threat of vibe coding tools to traditional design workflows
  • Hear Vinod Khosla’s take on why 80% of jobs could be automated within 5 years
  • Unpack how China might use free AI tools to gain soft power and global influence
  • Learn why a high-risk, high-reward mindset defines the best founders and VCs in Silicon Valley


Whether you’re building your first startup or thinking about your AI strategy, this episode offers critical insights from people who’ve seen these cycles before and know where the puck is heading.


The Pact

Honor the Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:

  • Follow, rate, and review us in your listening app
  • Subscribe to the TSP Mailing List to gain access to exclusive newsletter-only content and early access to information on upcoming episodes: https://thestartuppodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe
  • Secure your official TSP merchandise at https://shop.tsp.show/
  • Follow us here on YouTube for full-video episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNjm1MTdjysRRV07fSf0yGg
  • Give us a public shout-out on LinkedIn or anywhere you have a social media following


Key links

Get your question in for our next Q&A episode: https://forms.gle/NZzgNWVLiFmwvFA2A

The Startup Podcast website: https://www.tsp.show/episodes/


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: http://chrissaad.com/advisory/

Follow Chris on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/


Producer: Justin McArthur https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-mcarthur

Intro Voice: Jeremiah Owyang https://web-strategist.com/


Jul 03, 202546:29
Master Your AI Prompts and Unlock ChatGPT's Full Potential w/ Jonathan Mast (Edu)

Master Your AI Prompts and Unlock ChatGPT's Full Potential w/ Jonathan Mast (Edu)

Struggling to get good results from ChatGPT or other AI tools? You’re probably prompting it wrong, and you’re not alone.


Many founders assume AI just knows what you mean. Without the right prompt structure, though, even the most powerful LLMs will fail to deliver.


In this episode, Yaniv Bernstein is joined by Jonathan Mast—seasoned entrepreneur, AI educator, and creator of the Perfect Prompt Framework—to break down how anyone, from startup founders to side hustlers, can start using AI more effectively today.


They explore the psychology behind prompting, how to build confidence using AI tools, and why embedding structured prompting into your startup can multiply productivity.


In this episode, you will:

  • Learn the 4-step Perfect Prompt Framework to get better responses from AI
  • Understand why AI often fails, and how it's usually your prompt (not the model)
  • Discover how to overcome "AI FOMO" and start using it without feeling overwhelmed
  • Hear why giving AI permission to ask you questions dramatically improves accuracy
  • Explore different LLMs like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini, and when to use each
  • Apply AI best practices to real startup workflows, from automation to documentation
  • Avoid common mistakes when building AI-based systems that lack guardrails or versioning


Whether you’re just starting with AI or want to unlock its full power for your business, this is the valuable conversation every modern founder needs.


The Pact

Honor the Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:

  • Follow, rate, and review us in your listening app
  • Subscribe to the TSP Mailing List to gain access to exclusive newsletter-only content and early access to information on upcoming episodes: https://thestartuppodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe
  • Secure your official TSP merchandise at https://shop.tsp.show/
  • Follow us here on YouTube for full-video episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNjm1MTdjysRRV07fSf0yGg
  • Give us a public shout-out on LinkedIn or anywhere you have a social media following


Key links

Get your question in for our next Q&A episode: https://forms.gle/NZzgNWVLiFmwvFA2A

The Startup Podcast website: https://www.tsp.show/episodes/


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: http://chrissaad.com/advisory/

Follow Chris on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/


Producer: Justin McArthur https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-mcarthur

Intro Voice: Jeremiah Owyang https://web-strategist.com/

Jun 30, 202559:58
Insiders React: Anthropic's Huge AI Copyright Win + Speech to Text Better Than Ever, Peter Thiel's Tech Dystopia

Insiders React: Anthropic's Huge AI Copyright Win + Speech to Text Better Than Ever, Peter Thiel's Tech Dystopia

Is training AI on copyrighted content stealing, or just learning? A major U.S. court just weighed in, and the verdict could rewrite the rules for startups using generative AI.


Too many founders assume "training data" is fair game but that blind spot could cost them billions. In this episode, Yaniv Bernstein and Chris Saad, experienced startup operators and product strategists, dive into a landmark copyright ruling and what it means for anyone building with AI.


They also explore why AI voice transcription tools are finally taking off after decades of mediocrity, and react to a deeply unsettling video from tech billionaire Peter Thiel, revealing Silicon Valley’s growing influence on politics and democracy.


In this episode, you will:

  • Understand why a U.S. court ruled Anthropic’s AI training methods as partially legal—and partially not
  • Learn the difference between fair use and piracy when it comes to LLM training
  • Discover why AI voice dictation is suddenly scaling and attracting huge VC funding
  • Explore the product strategy lesson behind voice tech’s decades-long false start
  • Unpack how timing, quality, and market readiness affect product-market fit
  • Hear the dark side of Silicon Valley power through a rare Peter Thiel clip



ChatGPT’s takeover plan: https://www.facebook.com/share/r/16S97eepGe/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Peter Thiel's philosophy: https://youtu.be/45o8tQMGtvU?si=QrJ48xsAdQS-MxAC&t=264


The Pact

Honor the Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:

  • Follow, rate, and review us in your listening app
  • Subscribe to the TSP Mailing List to gain access to exclusive newsletter-only content and early access to information on upcoming episodes: https://thestartuppodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe
  • Secure your official TSP merchandise at https://shop.tsp.show/
  • Follow us here on YouTube for full-video episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNjm1MTdjysRRV07fSf0yGg
  • Give us a public shout-out on LinkedIn or anywhere you have a social media following



Key links

Get your question in for our next Q&A episode: https://forms.gle/NZzgNWVLiFmwvFA2A

The Startup Podcast website: https://www.tsp.show/episodes/


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: http://chrissaad.com/advisory/

Follow Chris on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/


Producer: Justin McArthur https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-mcarthur

Intro Voice: Jeremiah Owyang https://web-strategist.com/

Jun 27, 202534:37
Insiders React: Sam Altman’s 'Gentle Singularity' + Workplace AI at an All-Time High, Meta's $30B Scale AI Acquihire

Insiders React: Sam Altman’s 'Gentle Singularity' + Workplace AI at an All-Time High, Meta's $30B Scale AI Acquihire

Is AI about to transform the world… gently? Sam Altman says yes, but are we being lulled into complacency while the real risks go unchallenged?


Startups everywhere are rushing to embed AI into their workflows, but few understand just how flawed that human-AI interaction can be. From broken prompting to billion-dollar power plays, the future of AI in business is murkier than it looks.


In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein break down the most urgent developments in AI and what they mean for founders and operators. They unpack Sam Altman’s “Gentle Singularity” vision, dive into Meta’s stealthy acquisition of Scale AI, and discuss a shocking study revealing that human-AI collaboration may be doing more harm than good, especially in healthcare and the workplace.


In this episode, you will:

  • Understand why Sam Altman thinks AI’s future will be “gentle”—and what he might be downplaying
  • Learn how Meta quietly bought 49% of Scale AI to outflank OpenAI and Google
  • Explore the real-world risks of bad prompting and how it derails AI’s accuracy
  • Uncover why AI literacy is now a critical skill for startups and employees alike
  • Examine why Slack is locking down chat data—and what that means for workplace AI tools
  • Hear how OpenAI talent is resisting $100M offers from Meta, and what that says about culture vs. cash
  • Discover the hidden trade-offs in AI alignment and whether “good enough” is actually enough


The Pact

Honor the Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:

  • Follow, rate, and review us in your listening app
  • Subscribe to the TSP Mailing List to gain access to exclusive newsletter-only content and early access to information on upcoming episodes: https://thestartuppodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe
  • Secure your official TSP merchandise at https://shop.tsp.show/
  • Follow us here on YouTube for full-video episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNjm1MTdjysRRV07fSf0yGg
  • Give us a public shout-out on LinkedIn or anywhere you have a social media following


Key links

Get your question in for our next Q&A episode: https://forms.gle/NZzgNWVLiFmwvFA2A

The Startup Podcast website: https://www.tsp.show/episodes/


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: http://chrissaad.com/advisory/

Follow Chris on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/


Producer: Justin McArthur https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-mcarthur

Intro Voice: Jeremiah Owyang https://web-strategist.com/

Jun 19, 202546:39
Apps Are Obsolete: How Startups Can Leverage the New Era of AI Agents (Spotlight)

Apps Are Obsolete: How Startups Can Leverage the New Era of AI Agents (Spotlight)

What if your next startup competitor doesn’t have a single employee?


AI agents aren’t just another software trend — they’re redefining the interface between humans, data, and execution, yet many founders still confuse basic chatbots with the true potential of these agents.


In this episode, Chris and Yaniv are joined by Jeremiah Owyang, General Partner at Blitzscaling Ventures and host of Silicon Valley’s top AI startup event, Llama Lounge. Together, they unpack Jeremiah’s insider thesis on the AI Agent era — and what it means for the future of software, user experience, and startups.


They explore why AI agents are replacing SaaS apps, what defines a “true agent,” and how startups should position themselves in the face of big tech platform risk.


In this episode, you will:

  • Understand the difference between LLM tools and autonomous AI agents
  • Discover how Crew AI scaled to 60% of the Fortune 500 using 150 agents and minimal staff
  • Learn why traditional apps and websites may become obsolete in the agentic future
  • Explore new go-to-market strategies and startup models for agent-driven businesses
  • Evaluate how agents will access private and public data — and what that means for APIs
  • Hear how to pitch agent startups to VCs looking for viral and network-effect plays


Whether you’re building in the agent ecosystem or preparing for it, this conversation will reshape how you think about the future of digital interfaces and startup opportunities.


The Pact

  • Honor the Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:
  • Follow, rate, and review us in your listening app
  • Subscribe to the TSP Mailing List to gain access to exclusive newsletter-only content and early access to information on upcoming episodes: https://thestartuppodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe
  • Secure your official TSP merchandise at https://shop.tsp.show/
  • Follow us here on YouTube for full-video episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNjm1MTdjysRRV07fSf0yGg
  • Give us a public shout-out on LinkedIn or anywhere you have a social media following


Key links

This episode is brought to you by Warp Development.  Are you ready to build something that matters? Visit https://warpdevelopment.com and mention The Startup Podcast for a free consultation.


Get your question in for our next Q&A episode: https://forms.gle/NZzgNWVLiFmwvFA2A

The Startup Podcast website: https://www.tsp.show/episodes/


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: http://chrissaad.com/advisory/

Follow Chris on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/


Producer: Justin McArthur https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-mcarthur

Intro Voice: Jeremiah Owyang https://web-strategist.com/

Jun 16, 202546:44
Apple WWDC Breakdown + Musk & Trump's Messy Divorce, a16z's Fresh Take on AI Startups

Apple WWDC Breakdown + Musk & Trump's Messy Divorce, a16z's Fresh Take on AI Startups

Apple’s WWDC 2025 keynote revealed a lot – just not what you’d expect.


Siri’s long-awaited AI upgrade was quietly delayed, and instead Apple rolled out a grab bag of long-overdue features, flashy design updates, and deep ChatGPT integrations. Is this a bold product reset, or proof that Apple is falling behind?


Meanwhile, Elon Musk and Donald Trump butt heads, Ukraine rewrites warfare with AI-powered drones, and a16z explains how consumer AI startups can finally scale, if they get a few key things right.


In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein sift through this huge week of tech news, breaking down the topics that really matter for founders and early-stage operators.


In this episode, you will:

  • Understand the real implications of Elon Musk and Donald Trump’s public fallout
  • Explore how the Musk/Trump feud could fracture the MAGA-tech alliance and reshape Silicon Valley politics
  • Learn why Apple is releasing papers criticizing AI reasoning—and what that means for AGI hype
  • Assess whether Apple’s WWDC 2025 was a quiet revolution or just a catch-up act
  • Discover how Ukraine’s AI-powered drone strike changes the future of war and global defense tech
  • Unpack why AI consumer startups now have better monetization paths than ever before


🔗 Full a16z post: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/justine-moore_a16z-ai-consumer-apps


From Silicon Valley’s shifting loyalties to the limits of Apple’s AI ambitions, this episode is a masterclass in how tech power is evolving and how to position yourself for it.


The Pact

Honor the Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:

  • Follow, rate, and review us in your listening app
  • Subscribe to the TSP Mailing List to gain access to exclusive newsletter-only content and early access to information on upcoming episodes: https://thestartuppodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe
  • Secure your official TSP merchandise at https://shop.tsp.show/
  • Follow us here on YouTube for full-video episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNjm1MTdjysRRV07fSf0yGg
  • Give us a public shout-out on LinkedIn or anywhere you have a social media following


Key links

Get your question in for our next Q&A episode: https://forms.gle/NZzgNWVLiFmwvFA2A

The Startup Podcast website: https://www.tsp.show/episodes/


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: http://chrissaad.com/advisory/

Follow Chris on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/


Producer: Justin McArthur https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-mcarthur

Intro Voice: Jeremiah Owyang https://web-strategist.com/

Jun 12, 202554:13
Insiders React: Meta's Luckey Military Deal + Google's Plan to Split Itself, Europe Revives AI & Startups

Insiders React: Meta's Luckey Military Deal + Google's Plan to Split Itself, Europe Revives AI & Startups

Can consumer tech like Facebook and Oculus really help win wars?


As governments get serious about AI and startups, Silicon Valley is being dragged—sometimes unwillingly—into the global military and geopolitical game.


In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein unpack how Meta is teaming up with Anduril—the military tech startup founded by Oculus’ Palmer Luckey—to bring XR (Extended Reality) to the battlefield. They also break down how Google might preemptively split itself, how UK civil servants gained 5% productivity with AI tools, and why Europe’s startup scene may finally be waking up.


In this episode, you will:

  • Learn how Meta’s AR & VR technology is being integrated into U.S. military operations

  • Understand the strategic irony behind Palmer Luckey and Meta partnering again

  • Explore the concept of “reverse technology transfer” from consumer tech to defense

  • Discover why Google may break itself up before regulators force it

  • See how the UK’s use of Microsoft Copilot gave government workers a 5% productivity boost

  • Unpack the EU’s new law that lets startups register and begin trading in under 48 hours

  • Assess how New York is quietly becoming Silicon Valley’s biggest challenger


Whether you're a founder, operator, or just a curious mind in the startup world, this episode gives you sharp insights into how tech, defense, and regulation are reshaping the startup landscape.


The Pact

Honor the Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:

  • Follow, rate, and review us in your listening app
  • Subscribe to the TSP Mailing List to gain access to exclusive newsletter-only content and early access to information on upcoming episodes: https://thestartuppodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe
  • Secure your official TSP merchandise at https://shop.tsp.show/
  • Follow us here on YouTube for full-video episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNjm1MTdjysRRV07fSf0yGg
  • Give us a public shout-out on LinkedIn or anywhere you have a social media following


Key links

Get your question in for our next Q&A episode: https://forms.gle/NZzgNWVLiFmwvFA2A

The Startup Podcast website: https://www.tsp.show/episodes/


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: http://chrissaad.com/advisory/

Follow Chris on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/


Producer: Justin McArthur https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-mcarthur

Intro Voice: Jeremiah Owyang https://web-strategist.com/

Jun 05, 202527:20
 How the PRFAQ Made Amazon Great (And Can Do The Same for You) w/ Marcelo Calbucci (Edu)

How the PRFAQ Made Amazon Great (And Can Do The Same for You) w/ Marcelo Calbucci (Edu)

Are you building a startup strategy—or just making it look like you have one?

Too many founders mistake polished slide decks for actual strategic thinking, leading to misalignment, wasted resources, and failed products.


In this episode, Yaniv Bernstein and Chris Saad are joined by Marcelo Calbucci, former Amazon director and author of The PRFAQ Framework. They dive into how Amazon’s famously effective six-page PRFAQ process forces deep thinking, aligns teams, and drives billion-dollar bets—without a single slide.

They explore why most startups get strategy wrong, how to apply PRFAQs to your own company, and the real difference between outputs and outcomes.


In this episode, you will:

  • Discover why PowerPoint-based strategies often lead to shallow thinking and misalignment
  • Learn how Amazon's six-page PRFAQ framework drives innovation and clarity
  • Understand the structure of a PRFAQ—and why it starts with a future-facing press release
  • Explore the critical cultural shifts needed to make frameworks like PRFAQs work
  • Compare PRFAQs with OKRs and PRDs—and learn when to use each
  • Unpack the process Amazon uses to critique and improve strategy docs in real time
  • Hear practical advice on adapting the PRFAQ process to your startup, even as a solo founder


Whether you're pre-launch or scaling fast, this episode gives you a blueprint for thinking deeper and aligning your team.


The Pact

Honor the Startup Podcast Pact!

If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:

  • Follow, rate, and review us in your listening app
  • Subscribe to the TSP Mailing List to gain access to exclusive newsletter-only content and early access to information on upcoming episodes: https://thestartuppodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe
  • Secure your official TSP merchandise at https://shop.tsp.show/
  • Follow us here on YouTube for full-video episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNjm1MTdjysRRV07fSf0yGg
  • Give us a public shout-out on LinkedIn or anywhere you have a social media following


Key links

Get your question in for our next Q&A episode: https://forms.gle/NZzgNWVLiFmwvFA2A

The Startup Podcast website: https://www.tsp.show/episodes/


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: http://chrissaad.com/advisory/

Follow Chris on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/


Producer: Justin McArthur https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-mcarthur

Intro Voice: Jeremiah Owyang https://web-strategist.com/

Jun 02, 202501:00:14
Insiders React: Sam Altman's New $6B Partnership + Klarna's AI Backtrack, Bitcoin Over $111K

Insiders React: Sam Altman's New $6B Partnership + Klarna's AI Backtrack, Bitcoin Over $111K

What does it mean when OpenAI gives away $6 billion worth of equity just to bring one man on board?

In a world where design, brand, and user experience could determine AI dominance, are startups undervaluing human-centered thinking?


In this episode, Chris and Yaniv unpack OpenAI’s jaw-dropping acquisition of Jony Ive's mysterious startup “io,” and what it means for the future of AI hardware. They also break down Claude 4’s strategic shift toward coding, Klarna’s AI misfire in customer service, and Bitcoin’s stunning return to all-time highs.


In this episode, you will:

  • Understand why OpenAI paid $6B for Jony Ive with no product in sight
  • Explore how Claude 4 is positioning itself to dominate AI coding workflows
  • Learn what Klarna’s AI rollback says about the real limits of LLMs in customer service
  • Discover why prompting isn’t just for AIs—and how it applies to human leadership
  • Compare deterministic vs probabilistic software—and what that means for your startup stack
  • Examine how students using AI tools are reshaping education (and why it’s not all good news)
  • Evaluate Bitcoin’s recent surge and whether it’s becoming a lasting store of value


Whether you're building in AI, riding the crypto waves, or figuring out where human judgment still beats automation—this episode is packed with insight from real founders navigating the edge.


The Pact

Honor the Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:

  • Follow, rate, and review us in your listening app
  • Subscribe to the TSP Mailing List to gain access to exclusive newsletter-only content and early access to information on upcoming episodes: https://thestartuppodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe
  • Secure your official TSP merchandise at https://shop.tsp.show/
  • Follow us here on YouTube for full-video episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNjm1MTdjysRRV07fSf0yGg
  • Give us a public shout-out on LinkedIn or anywhere you have a social media following


Key links

Get your question in for our next Q&A episode: https://forms.gle/NZzgNWVLiFmwvFA2A

The Startup Podcast website: https://www.tsp.show/episodes/


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: http://chrissaad.com/advisory/

Follow Chris on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/


Producer: Justin McArthur https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-mcarthur

Intro Voice: Jeremiah Owyang https://web-strategist.com/

May 29, 202544:18
Insiders React: Google Goes AI 'Beast Mode' + Airbnb's Bold Pivot, Microsoft’s Agent Strategy

Insiders React: Google Goes AI 'Beast Mode' + Airbnb's Bold Pivot, Microsoft’s Agent Strategy

Is Google staging the biggest comeback in tech history? Or are we just getting swept up in the hype?


Founders often underestimate just how fast platform shifts change the rules of the game, and Google, Microsoft, and OpenAI are rewriting the rulebook in real time.


In this episode, Yaniv Bernstein and Chris Saad break down Google’s massive AI showcase at I/O 2025, spotlighting the rollout of Gemini Live, Gmail Smart Replies, and even AI-powered glasses. They also dive into Airbnb’s bold strategy to become the “Amazon for services”—and why it could either revolutionize local work or crash hard. Plus, Microsoft, Nvidia, and OpenAI are all shaping the future of how software will be built in the AI era.


In this episode, you will:

  • Understand how Google is integrating AI into its entire product ecosystem—from Search to Android to Gmail
  • Learn why Gemini Live and Google’s “AI Mode” could change how consumers interact with the internet
  • Explore how Google is personalizing AI by tapping into your email, calendar, and Drive
  • Evaluate Airbnb’s ambition to become a services marketplace—and the operational challenges ahead
  • See how OpenAI’s Codex, Microsoft’s coding agents, and Windsurf’s SWE1 model are reshaping software engineering
  • Discover Nvidia’s clever strategy to absorb chip competition with NVLink Fusion
  • Debate whether vibe coding tools or engineer-facing AI agents will define the future of software development


Google’s making a comeback. Airbnb’s making a bold move. And AI tools are now building AI tools.It’s a lot. But we break it down so you know what matters—and what doesn’t.

The Pact Honor the Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:

  • Follow, rate, and review us in your listening app
  • Subscribe to the TSP Mailing List to gain access to exclusive newsletter-only content and early access to information on upcoming episodes: https://thestartuppodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe
  • Secure your official TSP merchandise at https://shop.tsp.show/
  • Follow us here on YouTube for full-video episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNjm1MTdjysRRV07fSf0yGg
  • Give us a public shout-out on LinkedIn or anywhere you have a social media following



Key links

The Startup Podcast is sponsored by Vanta. Vanta helps businesses get and stay compliant by automating up to 90% of the work for the most in-demand compliance frameworks. With over 200 integrations, you can easily monitor and secure the tools your business relies on. For a limited-time offer of US$1,000 off, go to www.vanta.com/tsp .


Get your question in for our next Q&A episode: https://forms.gle/NZzgNWVLiFmwvFA2A

The Startup Podcast website: https://www.tsp.show/episodes/


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: http://chrissaad.com/advisory/

Follow Chris on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/



Producer: Justin McArthur https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-mcarthur

Intro Voice: Jeremiah Owyang https://web-strategist.com/

May 22, 202555:49
From Floorplans to Full Renovations: How Maket's AI Owns the Architectural Stack (Spotlight)

From Floorplans to Full Renovations: How Maket's AI Owns the Architectural Stack (Spotlight)

Can AI really design your home? 800,000+ users have already ditched their architects thanks to Maket, a startup using AI to simplify renovations from floorplans to permits.


In this Spotlight episode, Maket founder Patrick Murphy delivers a mock version of the real pitch that secured $2M in funding from top investors including Reid Hoffman’s Blitzscaling Ventures. Maket’s platform uses generative AI to help homeowners and builders create zoning-compliant floorplans, visualize renovations, and streamline the entire design process—all without needing an architect.


We break down what made Maket's pitch so compelling, challenge some of Patrick’s assumptions, and unpack the real-world lessons for other founders pitching complex AI products. Along the way, we discuss the difference between simplifying a process and truly disrupting an industry—and why most tools built 'for professionals' fail to scale.


In this episode, you will:

  • Learn how Maket is automating architecture using generative AI
  • Hear how Patrick convinced VCs with a story-first pitch
  • Understand the strategic value of building a proprietary model
  • Explore the pitfalls of targeting industry incumbents too early
  • Discover how agent-based UIs are replacing SaaS 2.0
  • See why traction and team matter more than early monetization
  • Get tactical advice on presenting complex ideas to investors


If you’re building in AI, pitching a vertical SaaS product, or just want a front-row seat to a startup reinventing home design—this one’s for you.


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Key links

The Startup Podcast is sponsored by Vanta. Vanta helps businesses get and stay compliant by automating up to 90% of the work for the most in-demand compliance frameworks. With over 200 integrations, you can easily monitor and secure the tools your business relies on. For a limited-time offer of US$1,000 off, go to www.vanta.com/tsp .


Get your question in for our next Q&A episode: https://forms.gle/NZzgNWVLiFmwvFA2A


The Startup Podcast website: https://www.tsp.show/episodes/


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: http://chrissaad.com/advisory/

Follow Chris on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/


Producer: Justin McArthur https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-mcarthur

Intro Voice: Jeremiah Owyang https://web-strategist.com/

May 19, 202554:36
Insiders React: Death of Google Search? + YC's Startup Wishlist, Trump’s Saudi AI Deals

Insiders React: Death of Google Search? + YC's Startup Wishlist, Trump’s Saudi AI Deals

What happens when Apple hints that Google’s search dominance may be cracking, triggering a $155 billion wipeout in Alphabet’s value?


Many still think Google search is untouchable, but a shift in user behavior and a few lines in DOJ testimony may signal otherwise.


In this episode, Chris Saad, Yaniv Bernstein, and Amir Shevat explore how Apple’s revelation about declining Safari search traffic could mark a turning point for Google, what’s really behind Trump’s Middle East ‘AI investment tour,’ and how YC’s latest startup wishlist shows where the next wave of disruption will come from.


In this episode, you will:

  • Understand why Apple’s testimony may be a warning shot for Google Search
  • Learn how AI is reshaping the definition—and monetization—of ‘search’
  • Analyze Trump’s Saudi tech tour and its real impact on US innovation
  • Evaluate the shift from ad-driven to subscription-based AI business models
  • Explore why Y Combinator wants startups to go ‘full stack’ instead of selling to incumbents
  • Unpack the risks of shiny-object AI ideas vs. defensible startup models
  • Discover which overlooked AI sectors still have white space for new founders


From Google’s search slowdown to Trump’s headline-grabbing AI deals and YC’s startup roadmap, this episode gives you the strategic insight founders need to navigate tech’s shifting landscape.



The Pact

Honor the Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:

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Key links

The Startup Podcast is sponsored by Vanta. Vanta helps businesses get and stay compliant by automating up to 90% of the work for the most in-demand compliance frameworks.

With over 200 integrations, you can easily monitor and secure the tools your business relies on.


For a limited-time offer of US$1,000 off, go to www.vanta.com/tsp .

Get your question in for our next Q&A episode: https://forms.gle/NZzgNWVLiFmwvFA2A

The Startup Podcast website: https://www.tsp.show/episodes/



Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: http://chrissaad.com/advisory/

Follow Chris on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/



Producer: Justin McArthur https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-mcarthurIntro

Voice: Jeremiah Owyang https://web-strategist.com/

May 15, 202501:04:58
Replay: Co-Founder Relationships - Avoiding the Big Breakup (Edu)

Replay: Co-Founder Relationships - Avoiding the Big Breakup (Edu)

A strong co-founder relationship is crucial for any startup. Learn how to determine the ideal number of founders and understand the distinctions between roles and titles.

Also, Chris and Yaniv explain what you must know about:

  • The pros and cons of going solo vs. multiple founders.

  • CEOs and Founders and the distinction between roles and responsibilities.

  • Considerations on equity splits and vesting schedules.

  • Co-CEO conflicts and what to do about them.

  • How to manage breakups between founders gracefully when the relationship doesn’t work anymore.

If you’re looking to have an effective founding team, this episode is packed with strong advice from personal experiences from Chris and Yaniv. 

The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:

Key links

  • The Startup Podcast is sponsored by Rippling. Rippling is a single all-in-one platform for your global workforce, covering HR, IT, payroll, expenses, and more. For a TSP listener offer of 3 months free, go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.rippling.com/tsp⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Credits

Producer: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Justin McArthur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Intro Voice: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jeremiah Owyang⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

May 12, 202551:17
Insiders React: OpenAI Bets Big on Vibe Coding + Epic Games' Victory Over Apple, Silicon Valley's Talent Crisis

Insiders React: OpenAI Bets Big on Vibe Coding + Epic Games' Victory Over Apple, Silicon Valley's Talent Crisis

OpenAI just dropped $3B on vibe coding—should software engineers be worried?

And what happens now that Apple’s 30% App Store tax just took a major legal hit?


In this episode of The Startup Podcast, hosts Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein are joined by seasoned founder and investor Hooman Radfar (CEO at Collective, ex-VC at Expa) to unpack three seismic shifts shaping the future of tech startups today.


They dive deep into OpenAI’s $3B move into vibe coding, the ripple effects of Apple’s court-ordered App Store concession, and a sobering update on Silicon Valley's AI talent trends.


Watch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/chA3rYD75uI


In this episode, you will:


•⁠ ⁠Learn why OpenAI is acquiring AI coding startups—and what that means for developers everywhere

•⁠ ⁠Understand how tools like Windsurf and Cursor are changing expectations for startup speed and headcount

•⁠ ⁠Discover why SaaS margins and investor sentiment are shifting under the weight of AI-native startups

•⁠ ⁠Explore how Apple’s legal defeat is reshaping the app ecosystem for founders and product builders

•⁠ ⁠Hear first-hand stories about the limits of current LLM coding assistants—and why user trust may be short-lived

•⁠ ⁠Unpack the growing platform risk as hyperscalers begin to own entire labor categories, not just infrastructure

•⁠ ⁠Debate whether the “two-speed” startup economy (AI-native vs everyone else) is sustainable—or a bubble waiting to pop


Whether you’re an early-stage founder, startup operator, or just trying to make sense of the shifting AI landscape, this episode is packed with hard-earned insights and startup war stories from the frontlines.


The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:

Follow, rate, and review us in your listening app

Subscribe to the TSP Mailing List to gain access to exclusive newsletter-only content and early-access to information on upcoming episodes: https://thestartuppodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe

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Give us a public shout-out on LinkedIn or anywhere you have a social media following


Key links

The Startup Podcast is sponsored by Vanta. Vanta helps businesses get and stay compliant by automating up to 90% of the work for the most in demand compliance frameworks. With over 200 integrations, you can easily monitor and secure the tools your business relies on.

For a limited-time offer of US$1,000 off, go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.vanta.com/tsp⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.


Get your question in for our next Q&A episode: https://forms.gle/NZzgNWVLiFmwvFA2A

The Startup Podcast website: https://www.tsp.show/episodes/


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: http://chrissaad.com/advisory/

Follow Chris on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/


Producer: Justin McArthur https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-mcarthur

Intro Voice: Jeremiah Owyang https://web-strategist.com/

May 08, 202501:02:29
Finance For Founders - Why 'Playing It Safe' Is Risky w/ Michiel Boere, CFO at Remote (Edu)

Finance For Founders - Why 'Playing It Safe' Is Risky w/ Michiel Boere, CFO at Remote (Edu)

Think staying profitable means you’re on the right track? Think again.

Too many founders obsess over budgets and burn—but the real risk isn’t running out of cash. It’s growing too slowly to matter.


In this episode, Yaniv Bernstein is joined by Michiel Boere, CFO of Remote and former CFO of Uber Eats, to demystify startup finance for non-financial founders. Drawing from his experience scaling Uber and managing 50+ audits at Remote, Michiel shares the strategic financial mindset every founder must adopt to succeed.

In this episode, you will:

  • Learn why “failing profitably” is often worse than burning cash fast
  • Understand unit economics the way a CFO at Uber would
  • Discover the difference between forecasting, planning, and budgeting—and when each matters
  • Avoid the trap of letting budgets drive bad spending decisions
  • Get a practical framework for building simple, high-impact financial models
  • See why many founders misuse runway and how to forecast it properly
  • Hear why CFOs should embrace risk at the right stage of growth


If you’re a founder who wants to build a high-growth, venture-backable business—and avoid the financial blind spots that kill startups—this episode is essential listening.


The Pact

Honor the Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:

Follow, rate, and review us in your listening app

Subscribe to the TSP Mailing List to gain access to exclusive newsletter-only content and early access to information on upcoming episodes: https://thestartuppodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Secure your official TSP merchandise at https://shop.tsp.show/

Follow us here on YouTube for full-video episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNjm1MTdjysRRV07fSf0yGg

Give us a public shout-out on LinkedIn or anywhere you have a social media following


Key links

The Startup Podcast is sponsored by Vanta. Vanta helps businesses get and stay compliant by automating up to 90% of the work for the most in-demand compliance frameworks. With over 200 integrations, you can easily monitor and secure the tools your business relies on. For a limited-time offer of US$1,000 off, go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.vanta.com/tsp⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Get your question in for our next Q&A episode: https://forms.gle/NZzgNWVLiFmwvFA2A The Startup Podcast website: https://www.tsp.show/episodes/


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: http://chrissaad.com/advisory/

Follow Chris on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/


Producer: Justin McArthur https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-mcarthur

Intro Voice: Jeremiah Owyang https://web-strategist.com/


#StartupFinance #FounderAdvice #RemoteWork #TheStartupPodcast #AIStartup #StartupGrowth #VentureCapital #StartupTips

May 05, 202552:14
Insiders React: Did Zuckerberg Sabotage Instagram? + Apple’s New Devices, James Cameron on AI

Insiders React: Did Zuckerberg Sabotage Instagram? + Apple’s New Devices, James Cameron on AI

Instagram’s co-founder, Kevin Systrom, helped define the modern social web—now he’s calling out Zuckerberg in court.

And are Apple’s smart glasses finally catching up to Meta’s AI-powered wearables?


In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein react to some of the biggest headlines in tech and startup land.

From explosive testimony by Instagram’s co-founder to Apple’s delayed (but intriguing) entry into foldables and wearables, the hosts unpack what these developments really mean for startup founders and operators.

They also dissect Avatar director James Cameron’s surprising stance on AI and copyright, challenging how creators should think about inspiration vs. infringement in the age of LLMs.


In this episode, you will:

  • Unpack the Instagram founder’s claims that Zuckerberg sabotaged his company post-acquisition
  • Explore what Apple’s rumored smart glasses mean for the future of ambient computing
  • Evaluate the practicality of a foldable iPhone and why the form factor still feels niche
  • Hear why founders often regret selling too early—and what you should learn from it
  • Learn how Meta may have outmaneuvered Apple in AI wearables
  • Understand James Cameron’s bold perspective on how AI “scraping” compares to human creativity
  • Rethink how copyright law might evolve in an era of generative models


The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact!

If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:

Follow, rate, and review us in your listening app

Subscribe to the TSP Mailing List to gain access to exclusive newsletter-only content and early-access to information on upcoming episodes: https://thestartuppodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe

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Follow us here on YouTube for full-video episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNjm1MTdjysRRV07fSf0yGg

Give us a public shout-out on LinkedIn or anywhere you have a social media following


Key links

The Startup Podcast is sponsored by Vanta. Vanta helps businesses get and stay compliant by automating up to 90% of the work for the most in demand compliance frameworks. With over 200 integrations, you can easily monitor and secure the tools your business relies on. For a limited-time offer of US$1,000 off, go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.vanta.com/tsp⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Get your question in for our next Q&A episode: https://forms.gle/NZzgNWVLiFmwvFA2A

The Startup Podcast website: https://www.tsp.show/episodes/


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: http://chrissaad.com/advisory/

Follow Chris on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/

Producer: Justin McArthur https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-mcarthur

Intro Voice: Jeremiah Owyang https://web-strategist.com/

May 01, 202534:12
Replay: Mastering Attention - Your Startup's Secret Weapon w/ Ben Parr (Edu)

Replay: Mastering Attention - Your Startup's Secret Weapon w/ Ben Parr (Edu)

In today's fast-paced digital world, capturing and retaining attention is the most valuable currency for startups. But how can you thrive in a hypercompetitive landscape where rejection is the default response?


In this episode, Yaniv Bernstein and Chris Saad are joined by Ben Parr, acclaimed author of Captivology: The Science of Capturing People’s Attention, to dive deep into the attention economy.


In this episode, they explore:

  • Understanding why attention is crucial for turning intention into action.
  • Embracing attention-seeking as a positive pursuit, not something to be avoided.
  • Leveraging the seven triggers of attention at different stages to stand out.
  • Recognizing the growing value of attention and making every second count.
  • Navigating the psychology of attention to overcome barriers and capture interest.
  • Avoiding common mistakes founders make in seeking attention.


More on Ben Parr’s Info- Book and Newsletter

Captivology: The Science of Capturing People’s Attention

https://a.co/d/cNUCm3A 

The AI Analyst: https://www.benparr.com/ 


The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:


Key links


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv


Credits

Editor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Justin McArthur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Content Strategist: Carolina Franco https://www.linkedin.com/in/francocarolina/

Intro Voice: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jeremiah Owyang⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Apr 28, 202551:20
Insiders React: China Retaliates Against NVIDIA Embargo + US Startups in Crisis, Google Faces Legal Heat

Insiders React: China Retaliates Against NVIDIA Embargo + US Startups in Crisis, Google Faces Legal Heat

Huawei has just announced a new AI chip—does this mean tariffs accelerating Chinese innovation?


This week, Chris Saad, Yaniv Bernstein, and guest Amir Shevat dig into how the AI trade war and tech monopolies are reshaping the global startup landscape. Plus, on a lighter note: why Sam Altman says politeness in AI prompts is surprisingly expensive.


In this episode, you will:

  • Break down how China’s Huawei is pushing out a homegrown AI chip — and why US tariffs might be backfiring
  • Hear why US arrogance may be accelerating China’s rise in AI innovation, not slowing it
  • Learn how tariffs are hurting startups — from hardware costs to startups skipping Delaware altogether
  • Debate Google’s antitrust showdown: are they abusing market power or just defending their turf?
  • Explore why Perplexity AI is fighting for “choice” — and why it's really about distribution
  • Consider whether saying “please” to ChatGPT actually improves responses — and keeps you off the robot hit list
  • Laugh (or cry) as the team wrestles with whether our political system is just “dumb,” or already boiling over


The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:

Follow, rate, and review us in your listening app

Subscribe to the TSP Mailing List to gain access to exclusive newsletter-only content and early-access to information on upcoming episodes: https://thestartuppodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Secure your official TSP merchandise at https://shop.tsp.show/

Follow us here on YouTube for full-video episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNjm1MTdjysRRV07fSf0yGg

Give us a public shout-out on LinkedIn or anywhere you have a social media following


Key links

The Startup Podcast is sponsored by Vanta. Vanta helps businesses get and stay compliant by automating up to 90% of the work for the most in demand compliance frameworks. With over 200 integrations, you can easily monitor and secure the tools your business relies on. For a limited-time offer of US$1,000 off, go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.vanta.com/tsp⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.


Get your question in for our next Q&A episode: https://forms.gle/NZzgNWVLiFmwvFA2A

The Startup Podcast website: https://tsp.show


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: http://chrissaad.com/advisory/

Follow Chris on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/


Producer: Justin McArthur https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-mcarthur

Content Strategist: Carolina Franco https://www.linkedin.com/in/francocarolina/

Intro Voice: Jeremiah Owyang https://web-strategist.com/

Apr 24, 202539:05
Next-Gen Founders: Startups in the Age of AI (Edu)

Next-Gen Founders: Startups in the Age of AI (Edu)

Is AI making startups easier—or just changing the rules of the game?

In a world where execution is cheap and accessible, building a successful startup is more competitive than ever.

In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein unpack the reality of every business having access to the same AI-driven tools, what makes a startup successful in this landscape, and how to quickly adapt in the breakneck pace of business evolution.


In this episode, you will:

  • Understand why execution is no longer your moat—and what replaces it
  • Learn how to sharpen your strategic vision and apply “wisdom at speed”
  • Discover why leadership, sales, and hiring matter more than ever
  • Explore what it takes to master the human-AI interface—and gain an edge
  • Design processes that eliminate bottlenecks and boost iteration speed
  • Build a defensible moat using data, niche AI models, and brand
  • Realize how team quality becomes your true multiplier in the AI age


The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact!

If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:

Follow, rate, and review us in your listening app

Subscribe to the TSP Mailing List to gain access to exclusive newsletter-only content and early-access to information on upcoming episodes: https://thestartuppodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Secure your official TSP merchandise at https://shop.tsp.show/

Follow us here on YouTube for full-video episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNjm1MTdjysRRV07fSf0yGg

Give us a public shout-out on LinkedIn or anywhere you have a social media following


Key links

The Startup Podcast is sponsored by Vanta. Vanta helps businesses get and stay compliant by automating up to 90% of the work for the most in demand compliance frameworks. With over 200 integrations, you can easily monitor and secure the tools your business relies on. For a limited-time offer of US$1,000 off, go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.vanta.com/tsp⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Get your question in for our next Q&A episode: https://forms.gle/NZzgNWVLiFmwvFA2A

The Startup Podcast website: https://tsp.show

Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: http://chrissaad.com/advisory/

Follow Chris on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/


Producer: Justin McArthur https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-mcarthur

Content Strategist: Carolina Franco https://www.linkedin.com/in/francocarolina/

Intro Voice: Jeremiah Owyang https://web-strategist.com/

Apr 21, 202553:03
Insiders React: Meta's Whistleblower Bombshell + NVIDIA's $500B AI Investment, OpenAI’s New GPT-4.1

Insiders React: Meta's Whistleblower Bombshell + NVIDIA's $500B AI Investment, OpenAI’s New GPT-4.1

In this episode of The Startup Podcast, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein react to former Meta executive Sarah Wynn-Williams’ jaw-dropping testimony in front of the US Senate Judiciary Committee. She alleges Facebook put profits above all else—including the mental health of young users and even national security.


Plus, we discuss the political theater of NVIDIA's $500B commitment to US AI infrastructure, the All-In Podcast's unexpected showdown between billionaires and policy heavyweights, and briefly touching on OpenAI’s latest drop: the GPT-4.1 model.


In this episode, you will;

•⁠ ⁠Discover what the whistleblower claims Meta did to manipulate teen users

•⁠ ⁠Understand the China connection and how censorship tools allegedly fit in

•⁠ ⁠Hear why the hosts compare Meta’s behavior to the tobacco industry

•⁠ ⁠Learn how this trial could reshape public and legal perception of Big Tech

•⁠ ⁠Analyze whether NVIDIA’s $500B “AI in America” move is genuine or political theater

•⁠ ⁠Break down Ezra Klein and Larry Summers’ takedown of the All-In bros

•⁠ ⁠Explore OpenAI’s GPT-4.1 model and what it means for the future of software engineering

•⁠ ⁠Reflect on whether personal AI agents like ChatGPT are becoming too indispensable to switch away from

•⁠ ⁠Learn if AI just a buzzword — or the key to survival in a volatile startup landscape


The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:

Follow, rate, and review us in your listening app

Subscribe to the TSP Mailing List to gain access to exclusive newsletter-only content and early-access to information on upcoming episodes: https://thestartuppodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Secure your official TSP merchandise at https://shop.tsp.show/

Follow us here on YouTube for full-video episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNjm1MTdjysRRV07fSf0yGg

Give us a public shout-out on LinkedIn or anywhere you have a social media following


Key links

The Startup Podcast is sponsored by Vanta. Vanta helps businesses get and stay compliant by automating up to 90% of the work for the most in demand compliance frameworks. With over 200 integrations, you can easily monitor and secure the tools your business relies on. For a limited-time offer of US$1,000 off, go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.vanta.com/tsp⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.


Get your question in for our next Q&A episode: https://forms.gle/NZzgNWVLiFmwvFA2A

The Startup Podcast website: https://tsp.show


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: http://chrissaad.com/advisory/

Follow Chris on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/


Producer: Justin McArthur https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-mcarthur

Content Strategist: Carolina Franco https://www.linkedin.com/in/francocarolina/

Intro Voice: Jeremiah Owyang https://web-strategist.com/

Apr 17, 202544:12
Replay: Raising Capital at Seed - 5 Ways to De-Risk Your Round (Edu)

Replay: Raising Capital at Seed - 5 Ways to De-Risk Your Round (Edu)

Ready to raise your seed round but unsure how to de-risk for investors? Discover strategies to avoid pitfalls and secure early-stage funding confidently.


In this week's episode, our experts hosts Yaniv Bernstein and Chris Saad explore:

  • What a seed round truly entails
  • 5 areas you need to de-risk your seed round
  • Common misconceptions and mistakes founders make
  • Why traction is not the same as revenue
  • How to ensure your valuation reflects your startup’s potential
  • Investor pitch tips to share the effective use of your funds
  • The importance of selecting investors who share your vision

Whether you're a first-time founder or a seasoned entrepreneur, this episode will share the insights needed to de-risk your seed round and optimize your valuation for future success.


TSP Podcasts Episodes on Fundraising to Explore:


The Pact

Key links


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv


Credits

Editor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Justin McArthur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Content Strategist: Carolina Franco https://www.linkedin.com/in/francocarolina/

Intro Voice: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jeremiah Owyang⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Apr 14, 202555:25
Insiders React: Trump's Tariff Meltdown + Startup Valuations Crash, Shopify Goes Full AI

Insiders React: Trump's Tariff Meltdown + Startup Valuations Crash, Shopify Goes Full AI

Is AI just a buzzword — or the key to survival in a volatile startup landscape?

In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein break down Donald Trump’s shocking “Liberation Day” tariffs and the ripple effect it could have on the global economy — and on your startup.

As fears of a recession mount and market uncertainty grows, we explore what founders need to do to weather the storm, protect their valuations, and rethink growth strategies in turbulent times.

Plus, we dive deep into Shopify CEO Tobi Lütke’s viral internal memo that sets bold new expectations for AI adoption across the company. What can you learn from Shopify’s AI playbook, and how should you apply it inside your own early-stage startup?

In this episode, you will:

  • Understand how Trump’s tariffs could trigger a global trust crisis and slow startup growth.
  • Learn why “multiple compression” will likely shrink your valuation — even if you're early-stage.
  • Discover how to reposition your startup’s narrative in a world hungry for efficiency.
  • Get the inside scoop on Shopify’s viral AI memo — and what it means for founders.
  • Adopt a founder mindset that treats AI use as mandatory, not optional.
  • Explore practical ways to prototype, launch, and scale with minimal team size.
  • Avoid common mistakes in relying too heavily — or too little — on AI tools.


The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:


Key links


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://chrissaad.com/advisory/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Chris on Linkedin:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Credits

Editor:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Justin McArthur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Content Strategist: ⁠Carolina Franco⁠ 

Intro Voice:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jeremiah Owyang⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Apr 10, 202538:43
Strategic Communications – Why PR Alone Won’t Drive Business Growth w/ Jessy Wu (Edu)

Strategic Communications – Why PR Alone Won’t Drive Business Growth w/ Jessy Wu (Edu)

Is your startup’s PR strategy just a vanity exercise? Most founders make the mistake of announcing fundraising rounds like it’s a badge of honor, hoping for instant traction and credibility. But here's the truth: if you're chasing headlines without a strategy, you're wasting money.


In this episode, Yaniv Bernstein and Jessy Wu, founder of Encour, dive deep into the art of strategic communications and why most startups approach PR all wrong. Jessie shares her journey from VC to PR mastermind, revealing why effective PR starts with a business objective not just getting featured in big-name publications.


In this episode, you will:

  • Learn why most fundraising announcements fall flat and fail to deliver ROI.
  • Understand the difference between vanity PR and strategic communications.
  • Discover Jessy's proven framework for building authority and influence.
  • Find out why PR campaigns should never be confined to a single channel.
  • Learn how to turn a fundraising announcement into a strategic, multi-channel campaign.
  • Understand why attribution is so difficult in PR and how to work around it.
  • Explore the importance of aligning your PR efforts with clear business objectives.


The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:


Key links


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://chrissaad.com/advisory/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Chris on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Credits

Editor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Justin McArthur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Content Strategist: Carolina Franco https://www.linkedin.com/in/francocarolina/

Intro Voice: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jeremiah Owyang⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Apr 07, 202545:48
Insiders React: Google Just Killed SEO + OpenAI’s $40B Raise, AI’s Copyright Crisis

Insiders React: Google Just Killed SEO + OpenAI’s $40B Raise, AI’s Copyright Crisis

Is Google about to kill SEO forever? Why did OpenAI just raise $40 billion? And is the AI bubble about to burst?


The AI arms race is heating up, and the biggest players are making moves that could change everything. But what does this mean for creators, businesses, and the future of search?


In this episode, Chris and Yaniv are joined by Hooman Radfar, founder and CEO at Collective, to break down the latest developments in the AI landscape. They dive deep into Google's AI-powered search transformation, OpenAI's massive $40 billion raise, the escalating debate over AI-generated art theft, and the looming question: is the AI bubble about to pop?


In this episode, you will:

  • Discover how Google’s AI overhaul could spell the end of SEO as we know it.
  • Learn why OpenAI just raised an astonishing $40 billion and what they plan to do with it.
  • Understand the new breakthroughs in AI image generation and how they’re disrupting creative industries.
  • Explore the growing controversy over AI-generated art and whether it's infringing on real artists’ work.
  • Examine why investors are getting nervous about a potential AI bubble.
  • Analyze the implications of Google and OpenAI’s escalating rivalry.
  • Get Insights on what these shifts mean for founders, creators, and the future of business.


The Pact


Key links


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://chrissaad.com/advisory/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Chris on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Credits

Editor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Justin McArthur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Content Strategist: Carolina Franco 

Intro Voice: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jeremiah Owyang⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Apr 03, 202501:04:52
Replay: Scaling Sales - Insider Secrets w/ Rippling's Matt Loop and Matt Plank (Edu)

Replay: Scaling Sales - Insider Secrets w/ Rippling's Matt Loop and Matt Plank (Edu)

Do you really understand sales? Learn how great startups grow from founder led origins to dynamic regional teams while maintaining a shared company DNA.

In this episode, sales team hyper-scalers Matt Loop (Rippling, Slack, LinkedIn, Salesforce) and Matt Plank (Rippling, Zenefits) explain how to build a sales team that doesn't suck.

Matt, Matt, and Yaniv discuss:

  • Culture Club: Why early stage founder-led sales should give way to a scalable sales team aligned around your company culture.
  • Going Global: The importance of understanding local markets and maintaining effective communication and trust within the team as your startup expands internationally.
  • Ripple Effects: How sales and product teams collaborate at Rippling to deliver on their goal – automating back-office work so that other companies can focus on their core missions.

The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:

Key links

  • The Startup Podcast is sponsored by Rippling. Rippling is a single all-in-one platform for your global workforce, covering HR, IT, payroll, expenses, and more. For a TSP listener offer of 3 months free, go to ⁠⁠www.rippling.com/tsp⁠⁠.

Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Credits

Editor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Justin McArthur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Intro Voice: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jeremiah Owyang⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Mar 31, 202501:01:08
Insiders React: Google’s $32B Cloud Power Grab + Altman: AI Now Beats Humans, 23andMe Collapses, Fake AI CEOs

Insiders React: Google’s $32B Cloud Power Grab + Altman: AI Now Beats Humans, 23andMe Collapses, Fake AI CEOs

Are we on the brink of an AI revolution that will fundamentally reshape society? Or are we overestimating the impact of these new technologies?


In this episode, Chris Saad and Michael Jones, General Partner at Science Startup Studio in LA, explore the latest developments in AI, biotech, and tech industry M&A, unpacking their implications for business, ethics, and the future of human-AI interaction.


In this episode, you will:

  • Analyze the factors behind 23andMe's bankruptcy and what it means for biotech startups
  • Explore how Google's $32 billion Wiz acquisition signals a return of big tech M&A
  • Examine the growing threat of AI impersonation and its potential for fraud
  • Unpack key insights from Sam Altman on AI's impact on empathy, art, and scientific research
  • Consider how humans perceive and value AI-generated content differently from human creations
  • Debate the potential emergence of a separate "machine economy"
  • Reflect on the ethical implications of AI outperforming humans in medical diagnosis


The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:


Key links


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://chrissaad.com/advisory/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Chris on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Credits

Editor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Justin McArthur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Content Strategist: Carolina Franco 

Intro Voice: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jeremiah Owyang⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Mar 27, 202552:20
Kill Your Customers – The Doom Funnel That’s Hurting Your Startup (Edu)

Kill Your Customers – The Doom Funnel That’s Hurting Your Startup (Edu)

Are you a startup founder considering a partnership with a big player in your industry? Before you sign that deal, you might want to think twice. In this eye-opening episode we dive deep into the dangers of partnering with or selling to incumbents when you're trying to disrupt an industry.

Chris and Yaniv explore the concept of "killing your customers" not literally, of course, but in the sense of disrupting the very companies you might be tempted to partner with. They break down the "funnel of doom" that many startups fall into when pursuing B2B2C partnerships, and explain why going direct to end users is often the better strategy for truly innovative products.


In this episode, you will:

  • Discover the 10 steps of the "funnel of doom" for B2B2C partnerships
  • Learn why incumbents often struggle to understand and implement disruptive innovations
  • Understand the importance of owning your user relationships and data
  • Explore real-world case studies of successful direct-to-consumer disruptors
  • Debate the limitations of white-label and B2B business models
  • Gain insights on how to avoid common startup pitfalls when choosing a go-to-market strategy
  • Recognize the value of iterating quickly and maintaining control over your product


Links mentioned in the EP:

https://www.tsp.show/edu-b2c-vs-b2b2c-driving-direct-disruption-w-matt-holme/ 


B2B vs B2C comparison Table:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/11ICK-KmnPJgzfQC1wkxz6Tf-l69pUptmk1QyKH9QB9M/edit?tab=t.0#heading=h.1izb56alryed


The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:


Key links


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://chrissaad.com/advisory/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Chris on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Credits

Editor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Justin McArthur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Content Strategist: Carolina Franco https://www.linkedin.com/in/francocarolina/

Intro Voice: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jeremiah Owyang⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Mar 24, 202542:53
Insiders React: Google's New Robotics Division + OpenAI Tries to Block DeepSeek, Rippling/Deel Corporate Espionage

Insiders React: Google's New Robotics Division + OpenAI Tries to Block DeepSeek, Rippling/Deel Corporate Espionage


Are tech companies resorting to corporate espionage in the cutthroat world of AI? Is the US losing its grip on global tech dominance?


Yaniv, Chris, and Elli explore the shocking lawsuit between former podcast sponsors Rippling and Deel, where allegations of corporate spying have surfaced. They also examine OpenAI's controversial call to ban Chinese rival DeepSeek, and what it reveals about the shifting landscape of AI competition and geopolitics.


In this episode, you will:

  • Uncover the details of alleged corporate espionage between HR tech rivals
  • Analyze the geopolitical implications of OpenAI's attempt to ban a Chinese competitor
  • Explore groundbreaking developments in robotics from Google and NVIDIA
  • Understand why 2025 is poised to be a pivotal year for humanoid robots
  • Learn about the "great race" to unify company data for AI applications
  • Discuss the changing dynamics of global tech leadership between the US and China
  • Consider the privacy implications of AI-powered data aggregation


The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:


Key links


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://chrissaad.com/advisory/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Chris on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Credits

Editor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Justin McArthur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Content Strategist: Carolina Franco 

Intro Voice: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jeremiah Owyang⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Mar 20, 202552:30
Replay: Getting Good At Operations - Optimise Your Startup (Edu)

Replay: Getting Good At Operations - Optimise Your Startup (Edu)

[This episode was originally published on June 25, 2024.]

Why is optimizing your ops crucial for startup success? Learn how your business can better bridge the gap between software and operations.

On today's show, Chris and Yaniv discuss:

  • Up And Atom: Understanding the difference between 'typical business' ops and 'product enablement' ops, including the Uber concept of 'bits and atoms'.
  • Top of the Ops: Creating a specialized department that emphasizes continuous improvement and self-renewal, including integrating product operations roles for better collaboration.
  • Monkey See, Monkey Do: Ensuring your ops are efficient by setting clear job descriptions, KPIs, and playbooks.

Tune in for an episode packed with concrete, actionable advice for founders looking to scale their operations and ensure the smooth running of their businesses.

The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:

Key links

  • The Startup Podcast is sponsored by Vanta. Vanta helps businesses get and stay compliant by automating up to 90% of the work for the most in demand compliance frameworks. With over 200 integrations, you can easily monitor and secure the tools your business relies on. For a limited-time offer of US$1,000 off, go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.vanta.com/tsp⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
  • The Startup Podcast is sponsored by Trilligent. Trilligent is your startup's one-stop-shop for regulatory, PR, and international expansion advisory. Their unique startup-friendly offering is essential for any startup looking to go beyond their home shores or deal with complex regulatory environments. Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://trilligent.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and book a call with their COO Laura to learn more – tell her we sent you!
  • The Startup Podcast is sponsored by Rippling. Rippling is a single all-in-one platform for your global workforce, covering HR, IT, payroll, expenses, and more. For a TSP listener offer of 3 months free, go to ⁠www.rippling.com/tsp⁠.

Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Credits

Editor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Justin McArthur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Intro Voice: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jeremiah Owyang⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Mar 17, 202543:18
Insiders React: Return of Digg + Wall Street Panic, Bitcoin Strategic Reserve, Apple Delays AI

Insiders React: Return of Digg + Wall Street Panic, Bitcoin Strategic Reserve, Apple Delays AI

Is the stock market's recent nosedive just the beginning of a larger economic shift? As tariffs and political uncertainty rock Wall Street, tech giants like Apple are facing unexpected hurdles in the AI race. Meanwhile, an old internet favorite is poised for a surprising comeback.


In this episode, Yaniv Bernstein and Chris Saad dive into the turbulent world of tech, finance, and politics. They explore the reasons behind the stock market's sharp decline, analyze Apple's decision to delay its AI rollout, and discuss the unexpected relaunch of Digg by former competitors.


In this episode, you will:

  • Understand the factors contributing to the recent stock market downturn
  • Learn about the U.S. government's new Bitcoin strategy and its market impact
  • Discover why Apple is postponing its Apple Intelligence rollout and what it means for the tech giant
  • Explore the surprising revival of Digg and its potential impact on the social media landscape
  • Analyze the trend of moving from "blurred lines" to "clear lines" in politics and policy
  • Examine the rising importance of "revenue per employee" as a metric for AI startups
  • Gain insights on how founders can navigate economic uncertainty and optimize for capital efficiency


The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:


Key links


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://chrissaad.com/advisory/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Chris on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Credits

Editor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Justin McArthur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Content Strategist: Carolina Franco 

Intro Voice: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jeremiah Owyang⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Mar 13, 202555:55
Product Led Marketing – Where Do Marketers Fit In? (Edu)

Product Led Marketing – Where Do Marketers Fit In? (Edu)

Are you struggling to understand how marketing fits into a product-led company? You're not alone. Many marketers wonder if their role becomes less important when product takes the lead. But what if the opposite were true?


In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein explore the evolving role of marketing in product-led organizations. They discuss how marketing can become even more critical by aligning closely with product development and strategy.


In this episode, you will:

  • Understand the difference between product-led growth and product-led organizations
  • Learn about the five key areas marketing owns in a product-led company
  • Discover the crucial role of product marketing as a bridge between product and marketing teams
  • Explore how marketing informs initial product decisions and adapts messaging to the product roadmap
  • Gain insights on achieving alignment between target market, product, and messaging
  • Learn why marketing's voice becomes more important in product development, not less
  • Understand how to structure cross-functional teams for optimal collaboration


Related episodes:

https://www.tsp.show/edu-product-marketing-a-love-story/


The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:


Key links


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://chrissaad.com/advisory/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Chris on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Credits

Editor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Justin McArthur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Content Strategist: Carolina Franco https://www.linkedin.com/in/francocarolina/

Intro Voice: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jeremiah Owyang⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Mar 10, 202526:51
Insiders React: AI Voices Get TOO Real + NVIDIA’s Earnings Drama, Microsoft’s Sneaky AI Move, Alexa’s Big Update

Insiders React: AI Voices Get TOO Real + NVIDIA’s Earnings Drama, Microsoft’s Sneaky AI Move, Alexa’s Big Update

Are you ready for AI that sounds indistinguishable from a human? The future is arriving faster than you might think.


In this episode, Chris and Yaniv dive into the latest developments in AI, from NVIDIA's blockbuster earnings to Amazon's new AI-powered Alexa to eerily realistic voice models that left Chris feeling emotional. They explore the economic impacts rippling through the tech industry and beyond.


In this episode, you will:

  • Analyze NVIDIA's latest earnings and what they reveal about the state of the AI chip market
  • Examine potential tensions between Microsoft and OpenAI over AI model distillation
  • Evaluate Amazon's strategy to compete in AI through Alexa, despite lacking a frontier model
  • Experience the uncanny valley of next-generation voice AI that sounds shockingly human
  • Understand the current impact of AI on jobs, based on Anthropic's latest report
  • Consider how AI is reshaping tasks within jobs rather than fully automating entire roles
  • Reflect on whether this wave of AI disruption is truly different from past technological revolutions


Links from the Episode:

Ivan Landabaso Post on Anthropics AI & vJobs Report https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7300080128984817665/

TSP Positron and Groq Spotlight Episode

https://youtu.be/_brwk2wx8Ck 


The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:


Key links


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://chrissaad.com/advisory/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Chris on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Credits

Editor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Justin McArthur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Content Strategist: Carolina Franco 

Intro Voice: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jeremiah Owyang⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Mar 06, 202550:04
Venture Capital - What VCs Say (And What They Really Mean)

Venture Capital - What VCs Say (And What They Really Mean)

Have you ever left a VC meeting feeling confused about the feedback you received? Are you tired of trying to decipher cryptic responses from potential investors?

In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein dive into the world of venture capital communication, breaking down common phrases VCs use and what they really mean. Drawing inspiration from a LinkedIn post by YC alum Nilay Modi, they explore the subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways investors convey their thoughts on startup pitches.


In this episode, you will:

  • Decode common VC phrases like "not aligned with our strategy" and "need to see more traction"
  • Understand the importance of demonstrating progress and traction to investors
  • Learn why founder pedigree matters and what it really means
  • Discover the motivations behind VCs asking to "keep them in the loop"
  • Gain insights on balancing grand visions with practical execution plans
  • Explore the role of information, deal flow, network, and judgment in VC decision-making
  • Develop strategies for interpreting and responding to VC feedback effectively


Linkedin Post: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/thenilaymodi_yc-demo-day-survival-guide-what-vcs-say-activity-7244767753084051456-JEuI/


The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:


Key links


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://chrissaad.com/advisory/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Chris on Linkedin:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Credits

Editor:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Justin McArthur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Content Strategist: Carolina Franco https://www.linkedin.com/in/francocarolina/

Intro Voice:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jeremiah Owyang⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Mar 03, 202523:15
Insiders React: Creepy AI Agents Talk in Secret + Claude 3.7 Kills Jobs , Microsoft’s Quantum Leap , Robots Now Collaborate

Insiders React: Creepy AI Agents Talk in Secret + Claude 3.7 Kills Jobs , Microsoft’s Quantum Leap , Robots Now Collaborate

Are you prepared for a world where robots collaborate seamlessly, AI agents communicate in their own language, and quantum computers solve complex problems in minutes? The future is arriving faster than you might think.


In this episode, Chris and Yaniv explore the latest breakthroughs in AI, robotics, and quantum computing that are pushing the boundaries of what's possible. From Microsoft's groundbreaking quantum chip to humanoid robots working together, the pace of innovation is staggering.


In this episode, you will:

- Discover how Microsoft's new quantum chip could revolutionize computing

- Witness the eerie collaboration between Figure's humanoid robots

- Learn about "Gibberlink," the secret language AI agents use to communicate

- Explore Claude 3.7 Sonnet's impressive coding capabilities

- Understand the potential limitations of AI in specialized domains

- Gain insights on effective "LLM management" as a crucial skill for the future

- Reflect on the accelerating pace of AI advancements and its implications


The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:


Key links


Credits

Editor:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Justin McArthur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Content Strategist: Carolina Franco 

Intro Voice:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jeremiah Owyang⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Feb 26, 202527:44
Technical Debt: Why It’s Inevitable and How to Handle It (Edu)

Technical Debt: Why It’s Inevitable and How to Handle It (Edu)

Is your startup struggling to ship new features? Are you constantly putting out fires instead of innovating? You might be drowning in technical debt without even realizing it.


In this eye-opening episode, Yaniv Bernstein and Chris Saad demystify the often misunderstood concept of technical debt and its crucial role in startup success.


In this episode, you will:

  • Discover what technical debt really is and why it's inevitable for startups
  • Learn to distinguish between good debt that fuels growth and bad debt that strangles innovation
  • Understand how technical debt relates to financial debt and why it matters for your bottom line
  • Explore common types of technical debt and their impact on your business
  • Gain insights into effective strategies for paying back technical debt
  • Master the art of making technical decisions with a business-first mindset
  • Uncover the secret to balancing innovation and technical sustainability


The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:

  • Follow, rate, and review us in your listening app
  • Subscribe to the TSP Mailing List at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thestartuppodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
  • Secure your official TSP merchandise at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://shop.tsp.show/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
  • Follow us on YouTube at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@startup-podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
  • Give us a public shout-out on LinkedIn or anywhere you have a social media following.


Key links

  • The Startup Podcast is sponsored by Vanta. Vanta helps businesses get and stay compliant by automating up to 90% of the work for the most in demand compliance frameworks. With over 200 integrations, you can easily monitor and secure the tools your business relies on. For a limited-time offer of US$1,000 off, go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.vanta.com/tsp⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
  • Get your question in for our next Q&A episode: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://forms.gle/NZzgNWVLiFmwvFA2A⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
  • The Startup Podcast website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tsp.show⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://chrissaad.com/advisory/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Chris on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Credits

Editor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Justin McArthur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Content Strategist: Carolina Franco https://www.linkedin.com/in/francocarolina/

Intro Voice: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jeremiah Owyang⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Feb 24, 202546:54
Insiders React: AI Killing Junior Jobs + Apple & Meta's Robot Bet, Grok 3 Flops, Startup Chaos Ladder

Insiders React: AI Killing Junior Jobs + Apple & Meta's Robot Bet, Grok 3 Flops, Startup Chaos Ladder

Are you prepared for a world where humanoid robots work alongside us? It's not science fiction anymore – it's happening now, and faster than you might think.

In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein dive into the latest developments in robotics, AI, and the changing landscape of work and entrepreneurship. They explore how major tech companies are investing heavily in humanoid robots and what it means for the future of various industries.

In this episode, you will:

  • Discover why companies like Apple, Meta, and Google are betting big on humanoid robots
  • Learn about the potential impact of AI on junior roles, especially in software engineering
  • Understand the challenges and opportunities created by the rapid advancement of AI and robotics
  • Explore the massive value creation potential arising from shifts in regulations, technology, and culture
  • Gain insights on how to position yourself and your business to thrive in this new era
  • Hear perspectives on Elon Musk's latest AI venture, Grok, and its place in the competitive landscape
  • Consider the broader societal implications of these technological advancements


The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:


Key links


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://chrissaad.com/advisory/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Chris on Linkedin:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Credits

Editor:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Justin McArthur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Content Strategist: Carolina Franco 

Intro Voice:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jeremiah Owyang⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Feb 19, 202542:19
5 Simple Rules for Meetings That Don’t Suck (and Actually Get Sh*t Done)

5 Simple Rules for Meetings That Don’t Suck (and Actually Get Sh*t Done)

Are your meetings a productivity black hole? You're not alone. In the world of product management, meetings can make or break your team's success. But what if you could transform these time-sinks into powerful tools for alignment, decision-making, and innovation?


In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein dive deep into the art and science of effective meetings. They explore common pitfalls, share battle-tested strategies, and provide a practical framework for running meetings that actually move the needle.


In this episode, you will:

  • Discover why having a clear aim is the foundation of any successful meeting
  • Learn how to calculate the true cost of meetings and maximize their ROI
  • Explore strategies for keeping recurring meetings fresh and valuable
  • Understand when to use synchronous vs. asynchronous communication
  • Master the art of meeting facilitation and ownership
  • Gain practical tips for preparing and following through on meeting outcomes
  • Implement a "no-shit meeting checklist" to dramatically improve meeting quality


The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:


Key links


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://chrissaad.com/advisory/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Chris on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Credits

Editor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Justin McArthur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Content Strategist: Carolina Franco https://www.linkedin.com/in/francocarolina/

Intro Voice: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jeremiah Owyang⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Feb 17, 202547:13
Insiders React: Musk Trolls Altman + ChatGPT’s Deep Research, AI's Infinite ROI, JD Vance Gets It Right (...Sort Of)

Insiders React: Musk Trolls Altman + ChatGPT’s Deep Research, AI's Infinite ROI, JD Vance Gets It Right (...Sort Of)

What if AI could outthink, outresearch, and outperform even the most brilliant human minds? OpenAI's latest innovation might be bringing us closer to that reality than ever before.


In this episode, tech visionaries Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein dive deep into OpenAI's game-changing "deep research mode." This groundbreaking feature allows AI to conduct extensive research, analyze complex topics, and generate comprehensive reports in mere minutes. This task would take human researchers days or even weeks to complete.


But as AI capabilities skyrocket, so do the questions surrounding its impact on society, the economy, and the future of human work. Join Chris and Yaniv as they unpack the latest developments in AI and explore the far-reaching implications of this technological revolution.


In this episode, you will:

  • Uncover how OpenAI's deep research mode works and why it's a potential game-changer for industries relying on in-depth analysis
  • Decode Sam Altman's cryptic observations on AI economics, exploring the exponential growth in both AI capabilities and resource demands
  • Dissect the controversy surrounding Elon Musk's surprise bid to buy OpenAI, and what it reveals about the power dynamics in the AI industry
  • Analyze JD Vance's provocative speech at the AI Action Summit, and its implications for global AI policy and competition
  • Explore the complex interplay between AI advancements, immigration policies, and the future of work in an increasingly automated world
  • Debate the ethical considerations of AI-driven economic strategies and their potential impact on social equality
  • Gain insider insights into the future trajectory of AI development and its potential to reshape global power structures


The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:


Key links


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://chrissaad.com/advisory/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Chris on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Credits

Editor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Justin McArthur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Content Strategist:Carolina Franco 

Intro Voice: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jeremiah Owyang⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Feb 12, 202544:55
Scaling with AI- How AI Will Transform Your Startup w/ Grammarly CEO Shishir Mehrotra

Scaling with AI- How AI Will Transform Your Startup w/ Grammarly CEO Shishir Mehrotra

Have you ever wished for an intelligent assistant that could seamlessly integrate into your workflow, anticipating your needs and enhancing your productivity? What if AI could transform not just how we write, but how we work across all applications?


In this episode, Yaniv Bernstein is joined by Shishir Mehrotra, CEO of the newly merged Coda and Grammarly, to explore the exciting world of AI-native productivity and its potential to revolutionize the way we work.


In this episode, you will:

  • Discover the vision behind the Coda and Grammarly merger and how it aims to create AI-native productivity tools
  • Learn about the concept of AI agents and how they differ from traditional chatbots
  • Understand how AI is changing the role of founders and the skills needed in early-stage startups
  • Explore practical applications of AI in business workflows, such as automated status reporting
  • Gain insights into the future of AI assistants and their potential to enhance human productivity
  • Understand the importance of human ingenuity in an AI-powered world
  • Learn how AI tools can help founders transition from "doers" to "deciders" earlier in their startup journey


The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://chrissaad.com/advisory/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Chris on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Credits

Editor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Justin McArthur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Content Strategist: Carolina Francohttps://www.linkedin.com/in/francocarolina/

Intro Voice: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jeremiah Owyang⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Feb 10, 202542:10
Insiders React: Trump’s DOGE Disaster + Open Source OpenAI, Bluesky Beats Twitter

Insiders React: Trump’s DOGE Disaster + Open Source OpenAI, Bluesky Beats Twitter

Is the AI landscape about to be turned on its head? Are we witnessing the birth of a new social media giant?


In this episode, Yaniv Bernstein, Shira Lazar, and Amir Shevat dive into the latest tech developments that are reshaping industries and sparking heated debates.


In this episode, you will:

  • Analyze the impact of DeepSeek on the AI industry and OpenAI's surprising response
  • Explore how Trump's tariff policies could affect tech companies and startups
  • Examine concerns about Doge's approach to running the US government and its potential consequences
  • Discover why BlueSky is gaining traction as a Twitter alternative and its unique features
  • Learn about the importance of moderation in social media platforms
  • Understand the potential shift towards open protocols in social networking
  • Gain insights into the challenges of transitioning from running companies to governing countries


The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:


Key links

The Startup Podcast is sponsored by Vanta. Vanta helps businesses get and stay compliant by automating up to 90% of the work for the most in demand compliance frameworks. With over 200 integrations, you can easily monitor and secure the tools your business relies on. For a limited-time offer of US$1,000 off, go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.vanta.com/tsp⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Get your question in for our next Q&A episode: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://forms.gle/NZzgNWVLiFmwvFA2A⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

The Startup Podcast website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tsp.show⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://chrissaad.com/advisory/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Chris on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Credits

Editor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Justin McArthur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Content Strategist: Carolina Franco 

Intro Voice: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jeremiah Owyang⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Feb 05, 202547:53
Founder Mistakes – Why Most Founders Fail (and How Coaching Helps You Succeed) w/ Alexis d'Amecourt

Founder Mistakes – Why Most Founders Fail (and How Coaching Helps You Succeed) w/ Alexis d'Amecourt

As a startup founder, are you constantly putting out fires and feeling overwhelmed? You may be falling into some common pitfalls without even realizing it.


In this episode, Yaniv and Chris are joined by Alexis D’Amecour, Head of Coaching at Mochary Method, to discuss the top founder failure modes that executive coaches see - and how to avoid them.


In this episode, you will:

  • Discover why many founders fail to recognize their own power and influence
  • Learn how to delegate effectively as your company grows
  • Understand the importance of clearly communicating your vision
  • Explore ways to maintain focus on the big picture strategy
  • Gain tips for hiring the right people at the right time
  • Recognize the value of managing your physical and mental health
  • Learn strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome
  • Understand when and how to seek support through coaching or peer groups


The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:


Key links


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://chrissaad.com/advisory/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Chris on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Credits

Editor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Justin McArthur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Content Strategist: Carolina Franco https://www.linkedin.com/in/francocarolina/

Intro Voice: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jeremiah Owyang⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Feb 03, 202558:51
Insiders React: AI's DeepSeek Freakout + Trump's $500B AI Power Play, Elon Plays Footsie With Fascism

Insiders React: AI's DeepSeek Freakout + Trump's $500B AI Power Play, Elon Plays Footsie With Fascism

Are we witnessing the dawn of a new era in AI, or the potential erosion of democracy through unchecked technological power?


In this hard-hitting episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein tackle the latest seismic shifts in the AI landscape. From Project Stargate's staggering $500 billion investment to DeepSeek's game-changing cost-effective model, they explore how these developments are reshaping the industry and raising critical ethical questions about the future of technology and society.


In this episode, you will:

  • Decode the true implications of Project Stargate's massive AI investment and its potential impact on US technological dominance
  • Analyze how DeepSeek's breakthrough could democratize AI development and challenge tech giants' monopolies
  • Examine the geopolitical chess game unfolding between the US and China in the race for AI supremacy
  • Evaluate the potential market disruption for industry leaders like NVIDIA and OpenAI
  • Scrutinize the alarming behavior of tech leaders and discuss the parallels to historical fascist movements
  • Explore the ethical responsibilities of AI developers in an increasingly polarized world
  • Gain actionable insights on how to navigate the rapidly evolving AI landscape as a founder, investor, or industry professional


The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:


Key links


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://chrissaad.com/advisory/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Chris on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Credits

Editor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Justin McArthur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Content Strategist: Carolina Franco 

Intro Voice: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jeremiah Owyang⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Jan 29, 202547:44
Types of Capital - The Hidden Risks of Bootstrapping That Could Sink You w/Scotty Allen (Edu)

Types of Capital - The Hidden Risks of Bootstrapping That Could Sink You w/Scotty Allen (Edu)

Are you dreaming of launching the next unicorn startup? Before you quit your day job and pour your life savings into that brilliant idea, you might want to listen to this episode.


In this episode, Yaniv Bernstein is joined by Scotty Allen, startup advisor and founder of The Product Bus, to dive deep into the realities of startup funding, the risks of bootstrapping, and the importance of knowing which "game" you're playing as a founder.


In this episode, you will:

Understand the risks and challenges of bootstrapping vs seeking funding Learn why validation is crucial before building a full product Recognize the importance of knowing your strengths and weaknesses as a founder Discover how to "know the game you're playing" in the startup world Identify the dangers of falling into the sunk cost fallacy Gain perspective on realistic startup success rates Appreciate the value of failing fast and learning from failures Explore strategies for efficient idea validation and prototyping Consider alternative paths to building successful businesses outside the VC model


The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:

Follow, rate, and review us in your listening app Subscribe to the TSP Mailing List at
⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thestartuppodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Secure your official TSP merchandise at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://shop.tsp.show/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow us on YouTube at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@startup-podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Give us a public shout-out on LinkedIn or anywhere you have a social media following.


Key links

The Startup Podcast is sponsored by Vanta. Vanta helps businesses get and stay compliant by automating up to 90% of the work for the most in demand compliance frameworks. With over 200 integrations, you can easily monitor and secure the tools your business relies on. For a limited-time offer of US$1,000 off, go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.vanta.com/tsp⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Get your question in for our next Q&A episode: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://forms.gle/NZzgNWVLiFmwvFA2A⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The Startup Podcast website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tsp.show⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://chrissaad.com/advisory/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Chris on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Credits

Editor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Justin McArthur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Content Strategist: Carolina Franco https://www.linkedin.com/in/francocarolina/

Intro Voice: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jeremiah Owyang⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Jan 27, 202543:38
Insiders React: TikTok Trolls USA + Trump’s Crypto Scam, OpenAI's Agent Strategy, AI VCs

Insiders React: TikTok Trolls USA + Trump’s Crypto Scam, OpenAI's Agent Strategy, AI VCs

Is TikTok banned or not? The saga continues as Trump swoops in to "unban" the app, leaving creators and users whiplashed. But what's really going on behind the scenes in this high-stakes game of political chess?


In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein are joined by special guests Shira Lazar and Elli Hanson to unpack the latest tech and political drama. From TikTok's uncertain fate to Trump's meme coin launch, the team explores how these developments impact founders, investors, and the future of technology.


In this episode, you will:

  • Decode the TikTok ban flip-flop and its implications for US-China relations
  • Analyze Trump's meme coin launch and what it reveals about his approach to tech and finance
  • Explore the latest AI breakthroughs, including OpenAI's O3 mini model and new Tasks feature
  • Discuss the potential of AI agents like Bordy.ai and their impact on industries like venture capital
  • Gain insights on how founders can navigate the rapidly evolving AI landscape
  • Examine the ethical considerations of AI development and deployment
  • Consider the future of human-AI interaction and its societal implications


The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:


Key links


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://chrissaad.com/advisory/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Chris on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Credits

Editor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Justin McArthur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Content Strategist: Carolina Franco 

Jan 22, 202557:09
Startup Funding - VC, Bootstrapping, or Debt? The Funding Spectrum Explained (Edu)

Startup Funding - VC, Bootstrapping, or Debt? The Funding Spectrum Explained (Edu)

Are you a founder struggling to figure out how to fund your startup? With so many options available - from bootstrapping to VC funding - how do you know which path is right for you?


In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein break down the full spectrum of startup funding sources, exploring the pros, cons, and hidden pitfalls of each approach. Whether you're considering self-funding, equity financing, or debt, you'll gain crucial insights to make an informed decision.


In this episode, you will:

  • Discover the key differences between revenue-based, equity, and debt financing
  • Understand the pros and cons of bootstrapping vs raising external capital
  • Learn about alternative funding sources like float and cross-subsidies
  • Gain insights into the risks of over-relying on self-funding as a founder
  • Explore strategies for allocating and deploying capital efficiently
  • Understand how different funding approaches impact your startup's growth trajectory
  • Learn how to balance frugality with bold investment in scaling your business
  • Get advice on choosing the right funding mix for your specific startup


The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:


Key links


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://chrissaad.com/advisory/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Chris on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Credits

Editor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Justin McArthur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Content Strategist: Carolina Franco https://www.linkedin.com/in/francocarolina/

Intro Voice: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jeremiah Owyang⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Jan 20, 202501:04:33
Insiders React- Altman: AGI Almost Here! + Zuck and Bezos Kiss Trump's Ring, Rise of the Robots

Insiders React- Altman: AGI Almost Here! + Zuck and Bezos Kiss Trump's Ring, Rise of the Robots

Are we on the brink of Artificial General Intelligence? Has OpenAI quietly announced a breakthrough that could change everything? And how are tech giants like Google responding?


In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein dive into the latest developments in AI, robotics, and the shifting political landscape as a new U.S. administration takes office. They explore the implications for startups, innovation, and the future of technology.


In this episode, you will:

  • Analyze OpenAI's latest O3 model and its potential AGI-level capabilities
  • Discover how Google is catching up in the AI race with Gemini 2.0
  • Explore why 2025 could be a breakthrough year for robotics
  • Examine how tech leaders like Mark Zuckerberg are aligning with the new Trump administration
  • Understand the changes happening at Meta, including the removal of fact-checking and DEI programs
  • Consider the lack of nuance in political discourse around tech and innovation
  • Evaluate the potential impacts on regulation and growth in the tech sector


The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:


Key links


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://chrissaad.com/advisory/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Chris on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Credits

Editor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Justin McArthur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Content Strategist: Carolina Franco 

Intro Voice: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jeremiah Owyang⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Jan 15, 202550:43
Unforced Errors – Avoiding Mistakes At Every Stage w/ Mona Sabet (Edu)

Unforced Errors – Avoiding Mistakes At Every Stage w/ Mona Sabet (Edu)

Are you making costly mistakes that could derail your startup's success? Even experienced founders fall into common traps at every stage of their journey.

In this episode, Yaniv and Chris are joined by Mona Sabet, veteran Silicon Valley executive and author of "Sale to Scale," to explore founders' critical errors from launch to exit.


In this episode, you will:

  • Identify the waves of startup growth: launch, pivot, scale, and exit
  • Discover why falling in love with solutions (not problems) can doom your startup
  • Learn how to build the right MVP and avoid scaling too soon
  • Understand the pitfalls of false commitments during pivots
  • Recognize when it's time to transition from startup to scale-up mentality
  • Explore the changing role of the founder/CEO as the company grows
  • Gain insights on balancing confidence with openness to change
  • Uncover strategies for navigating the launch, pivot, and scale waves


More episodes on scaling up from TSP:

Product-Market Fit – 5 Proven Steps to Exponential Growth w/ Pablo Srugo

  • https://www.tsp.show/videos/product-market-fit-5-proven-steps-to-exponential-growth-w-pablo-srugo/

⁠Edu: Scale-up Execution Overview - Avoiding Founder Sabotage

  • https://www.tsp.show/edu-scale-up-execution-overview-avoiding-founder-sabotage/

⁠Edu: Scaling Up - Insights From A Unicorn Founder w/ Immad Akhund 

  • https://www.tsp.show/edu-scaling-up-insights-from-a-unicorn-founder-w-immad-akhund/

Clip: Removing Founder CEOs 

  • https://www.tsp.show/videos/founder-ceos-maximise-startup-advantages/


The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:


Key links


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://chrissaad.com/advisory/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Chris on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Credits

Editor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Justin McArthur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Content Strategist: Carolina Franco https://www.linkedin.com/in/francocarolina/

Intro Voice: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jeremiah Owyang⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Jan 13, 202501:02:08
Best of 2024 #4 – Agile vs. Waterfall: Stop Practicing Agile Theater w/ John Cutler

Best of 2024 #4 – Agile vs. Waterfall: Stop Practicing Agile Theater w/ John Cutler

As we head into 2025, we're looking back on our most popular episodes of 2024. This episode was originally published on July 29, 2024.

Are you shipping faster than you learn, or learning faster than you ship? Learn the risks of practicing "agile" theater and iterating your product without direction.

On this week's episode, product legend John Cutler joins Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein to discuss:

  • Why so many teams get Agile wrong
  • Pros and cons of Agile vs. Waterfall
  • The dangers of practicing Agile by the book vs. based on experience
  • Combining Agile and Waterfall: “Wagile”
  • Book Recommendation: How Big Things Get Done
  • The importance of planning and strategic vision

If you're ready to get things done while avoiding iterative dead-ends, this episode is for you.

Book Recommendation Link: ⁠https://a.co/d/f4NWJDA⁠ 

The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:

Key links

Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Credits

Editor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Justin McArthur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Content Strategist: ⁠Carolina Franco⁠

Intro Voice: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jeremiah Owyang⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Jan 06, 202534:51
Best of 2024 #3 – VC Pitch: PayPal for Agents – Skyfire Powers AI-to-AI Commerce at Scale

Best of 2024 #3 – VC Pitch: PayPal for Agents – Skyfire Powers AI-to-AI Commerce at Scale

As we head into 2025, we're looking back on our most popular episodes of 2024. This episode was originally published on October 30, 2024.

Are you ready for a world where AI agents can autonomously make purchases and monetize their services? How will commerce and payments evolve as intelligent software agents become ubiquitous?

In this episode, Chris Saad is joined by Amir Sarhangi and Craig DeWitt, co-founders of Skyfire, to explore the cutting-edge intersection of AI, payments, and open protocols.

They discuss Skyfire's mission to become the "Visa for AI" by enabling seamless financial transactions between autonomous agents.

In this episode, you will:

  • Discover how Skyfire is building an open protocol for AI agent payments
  • Learn about the challenges of creating a new payments network for machine-to-machine transactions
  • Understand Skyfire's strategy for solving the "chicken and egg" problem of supply and demand
  • Explore potential use cases for agent-to-agent payments in areas like data access, marketing, and recruiting
  • Gain insights into Skyfire's business model and approach to monetization
  • Hear the founders' vision for how AI agents will transform internet commerce


Special Thanks to Llama Lounge - the #1 AI event - for introducing us to to these founders.


Learn more about the startup

Skyfire Website: ⁠https://skyfire.xyz/⁠ 

Follow Amir Sarhangi on Linkedin: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/asarhangi/⁠ 

Follow Craig DeWitt on Linkedin: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdewitt/⁠ 


The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:


Key links


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv

Work 1:1 with Chris:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://chrissaad.com/advisory/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Chris on Linkedin:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Yaniv on Linkedin:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Credits

Editor:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Justin McArthur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Content Strategist: Carolina Franco ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/francocarolina/⁠

Intro Voice:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jeremiah Owyang⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Dec 30, 202401:02:32
Best of 2024 #2 – Mastering Attention: Your Startup's Secret Weapon w/ Ben Parr

Best of 2024 #2 – Mastering Attention: Your Startup's Secret Weapon w/ Ben Parr

As we head into 2025, we're looking back on our most popular episodes of 2024. This episode was originally published on August 12, 2024.

In today's fast-paced digital world, capturing and retaining attention is the most valuable currency for startups. But how can you thrive in a hypercompetitive landscape where rejection is the default response?

In this episode, Yaniv Bernstein and Chris Saad are joined by Ben Parr, acclaimed author of Captivology: The Science of Capturing People’s Attention, to dive deep into the attention economy.

In this episode, they explore:

  • Understanding why attention is crucial for turning intention into action.
  • Embracing attention-seeking as a positive pursuit, not something to be avoided.
  • Leveraging the seven triggers of attention at different stages to stand out.
  • Recognizing the growing value of attention and making every second count.
  • Navigating the psychology of attention to overcome barriers and capture interest.
  • Avoiding common mistakes founders make in seeking attention.


More on Ben Parr’s Info- Book and Newsletter

Captivology: The Science of Capturing People’s Attention

⁠https://a.co/d/cNUCm3A⁠ 

The AI Analyst: ⁠https://www.benparr.com/⁠ 


The Pact

Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:


Key links


Learn more about Chris and Yaniv


Credits

Editor:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Justin McArthur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Content Strategist: Carolina Franco ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/francocarolina/⁠

Intro Voice:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jeremiah Owyang⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Dec 23, 202451:20