This Week in Startups
This Week in Startups

This Week in Startups

Jason Calacanis covers startups, tech, markets, media, and all the hottest topics in business and technology. He also interviews the world’s greatest founders, operators, investors, and innovators.
TWiST News: Bitcoin, Saylor's Microsoft Pitch, and the Delaware-Tesla Fight | E2054
04 December 2024
TWiST News: Bitcoin, Saylor's Microsoft Pitch, and the Delaware-Tesla Fight | E2054

This Week in Startups is brought to you by…


OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist⁠


NetSuite. The number one cloud financial system, bringing accounting, financial management, inventory, and HR, into one platform. Giving you one source of truth. Download the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine Learning for free at https://www.netsuite.com/twist


Micro1. Micro1 is an AI recruitment engine to hire world class engineers fast. Visit https://www.micro1.ai/twist to get 10 free AI Interviews and 2 weeks free per hire


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Todays show:


Jason and Alex discuss Michael Saylor’s pitch for Microsoft to shift shareholder returns into Bitcoin, the Delaware court's ruling on Tesla pay, and more!


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Timestamps:


(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show


(7:41) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist⁠


(8:47) Michael Saylor's Bitcoin Pitch to Microsoft


(24:01) The Digital Transformation through Bitcoin


(29:46) NetSuite - Download the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine Learning for free at https://www.netsuite.com/twist


(30:47) Bitcoin as an investment compared to traditional assets


(38:01) Michael Saylor’s take on Bitcoin's investment potential


(39:40) Micro1 - Visit https://www.micro1.ai/twist to get 10 free AI Interviews and 2 weeks free per hire


(41:19) Asset-heavy vs. asset-light business models


(57:46) Tesla compensation package and Delaware court ruling


(1:03:56) Delaware Judicial System and Corporate Governance


(1:19:00) Corporate incorporation trends


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Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com


Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com


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Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp


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Mentioned on the show:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1l45B4mYl-o


https://x.com/saylor/status/1863323760511627565


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Follow Alex:


X: https://x.com/alex


LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm


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Follow Jason:


X: https://twitter.com/Jason


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis


*


Thank you to our partners:


(7:41) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist⁠


(29:46) NetSuite - Download the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine Learning for free at https://www.netsuite.com/twist


(39:40) Micro1 - Visit https://www.micro1.ai/twist to get 10 free AI Interviews and 2 weeks free per hire


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Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland


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Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis


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Follow TWiST:


Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups


YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups


TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups


Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com


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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916


TWiST News: Pardons, Enron, Crypto's Moment, and the Future of Chinese Venture | E2053
03 December 2024
TWiST News: Pardons, Enron, Crypto's Moment, and the Future of Chinese Venture | E2053

This Week in Startups is brought to you by…


Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.


LinkedIn Jobs. A business is only as strong as its people, and every hire matters. Go to https://www.linkedin.com/twist to post your first job for free. Terms and conditions apply.


Notion. Notion combines your notes, docs, and projects into one beautifully designed space with AI built right in. Try it for free today at https://notion.com/twist


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Todays show:


In today’s episode, Jason and Alex explored the curious return of Enron, the latest developments in Bitcoin and MicroStrategy, and the evolving cryptocurrency landscape. They closed with an analysis of China's uneven investment climate and its effects on venture capital activity.


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Timestamps:


(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show


(2:30) Hunter Biden's pardon and implications for presidential power


(7:51) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST


(9:31) Enron's return and potential crypto play


(14:47) Crypto regulation changes under the new administration


(24:43) Investment strategies in Bitcoin and the impact of hiring decisions


(26:51) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist


(28:25) Michael Saylor and MicroStrategy's strategy on Bitcoin


(37:31) Notion - Try it for free today at https://notion.com/twist


(39:22) Diversification in investments and Michael Saylor's promotional tactics


(43:28) NFTs vs. traditional investments


(46:47) Sequoia's global deals search


(55:11) Consumer confidence, US and China economies, and debt discussion


(1:02:09) Nearshoring trend, credit card delinquencies, and potential bankruptcies


(1:06:02) Bernie Sanders' stance on defense spending and populism


(1:08:02) Dogecoin leaderboard


(1:17:07) Bitcoin predictions and Bitcoin valuation


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Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com


Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com


*


Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp


*


Follow Alex:


X: https://x.com/alex


LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm


*


Follow Jason:


X: https://twitter.com/Jason


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis


*


Thank you to our partners:


(7:51) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST


(26:51) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist


(37:31) Notion - Try it for free today at https://notion.com/twist


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Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland


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Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis


*


Follow TWiST:


Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups


YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups


TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups


Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com


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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916


The Self-Driving Unicorn You Need to Meet & MicroStrategy's Bitcoin Bet | E2052
27 November 2024
The Self-Driving Unicorn You Need to Meet & MicroStrategy's Bitcoin Bet | E2052

Todays show:


Jason and Alex welcomed Alex Kendall to the show. He's the founder and CEO of Wayve, an AI company working on self-driving. You might recall that Wayve raised $1 billion earlier this year, but TWIST wanted to know how the company intends to commercialize -- and how soon. From there, it was back to the bitcoin mines. Figuratively, as the hosts dug into MicroStrategies' bitcoin buying bet. Precisely why it is trading at such a NAV premium remains occluded to the show, but we did chase down its debt terms. Next week: More TWiST500!


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Timestamps:


(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show


(2:32) Introduction of guest Alex Kendall Co-Founder & CEO of Wayve
(3:00) Alex Kendall on Wayve's autonomous driving approach and AI technology
(8:29) LiDAR vs. camera-first solutions debate


(10:19) Cloud Devs - Visit https://www.clouddevs.com/twist for an unbeatable offer on hiring elite Latam talent today.


(12:23) Economic viability and strategy of autonomous vehicles
(17:49) Timeline for Wave's technology deployment and future market scenarios


(19:58) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist


(22:34) Autonomy subscription models and AI driving behavior challenges


(30:01) Kyte - Download the Kyte app today and use code JASON to save 10% on your first rental.


(33:00) AI driving culture and Twist 500 update
(37:05) MicroStrategy's Bitcoin strategy and market concerns
(41:33) Bitcoin convertible debt analysis
(49:03) Deciphering complex business models and historical examples
(51:24) Evaluating new financial terms and investor advice
(52:29) Final thoughts and invitation to Michael Saylor


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Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com


Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com


Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp


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Mentioned on the show:


Check out Wayve: https://wayve.ai/
Check out MicroStrategy: https://www.microstrategy.com/
TWiST Episode #1251 with Do Kwon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PLZL8iPKsHQ


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Follow Alex Kendall:


X: https://x.com/alexgkendall


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexgkendall/


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Follow Alex:


X: https://x.com/alex


LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm






Follow Jason:


X: https://twitter.com/Jason


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis


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Thank you to our partners:


(10:19) Cloud Devs - Visit https://www.clouddevs.com/twist for an unbeatable offer on hiring elite Latam talent today.


(19:58) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist


(30:01) Kyte - Download the Kyte app today and use code JASON to save 10% on your first rental.


*


Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland


Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis


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Follow TWiST:


Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups


YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups


TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups


Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com


*


Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916


TWiST News: Startups & Wealth Taxes, The Bitcoin Boom, and The OpenAI Browser | E2051
26 November 2024
TWiST News: Startups & Wealth Taxes, The Bitcoin Boom, and The OpenAI Browser | E2051

This Week in Startups is brought to you by…


Squarespace. Turn your idea into a new website! Go to https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST for a free trial. When you’re ready to launch, use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.


OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist⁠


DevSquad. Most dev agencies only offer developers. Why? Because product management is hard. Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at https://devsquad.com/twist


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Todays show:


Jason and Alex are joined by Dune's CEO to discuss wealth taxes and their impact on startups, highlighting the need for nations to support digital innovation. Then, they dive into MicroStrategy's Bitcoin strategy, OpenAI's browser plans, and the 2025 IPO class, including excitement for CoreWeave's debut!


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Timestamps:


(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show


(6:07) Impact of taxes on startup formation and Norway's economic background


(10:17) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST


(11:53) Norway's wealth tax implications and policy changes


(18:09) Exodus of top taxpayers and the paradox of Norway's wealth tax


(20:14) Wall of shame for tax critics


(27:41) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist⁠


(28:41) Dune Analytics' revenue growth and new index product launch


(36:47) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at https://devsquad.com/twist


(38:15) Michael Saylor and MicroStrategy's Bitcoin investment strategy


(49:01) Market irrationality and risks associated with Bitcoin investments


(55:01) Crypto wealth diversification and new investment structures


(1:02:20) OpenAI's new browser project and its impact on search


(1:05:51) Increasing reliance on browsers and Bluesky's potential


(1:15:37) CoreWeave's IPO and the future of GPU clouds


(1:18:22) Bitcoin market dynamics and predictions


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Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com


Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com


*


Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp


*


Mentioned on the show:


https://www.microstrategy.com/press/microstrategy-announces-third-quarter-2024-financial-results-and-announces-42-billion-capital-plan_10-30-2024


https://x.com/ASvanevik/status/1857568015929455050/photo/1


https://bsky.jazco.dev/stats


https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=2550877


http://launch3.squarespace.com/blog/l019-bitcoin-p2p-currency-the-most-dangerous-project-weve-ev.html;jsessionid=EE99D323A0E532A507C8E2CD1EF05BAF.v5-web008


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Follow Fredrik:


X: https://x.com/hagaetc


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fredrikhaga


Check out Dune: https://dune.com


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Follow Alex:


X: https://x.com/alex


LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm


*


Follow Jason:


X: https://twitter.com/Jason


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis


*


Thank you to our partners:


(10:17) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST


(27:41) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist⁠


(36:47) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at https://devsquad.com/twist


*


Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland


*


Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis


*


Follow TWiST:


Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups


YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups


TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups


Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com


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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916


How Startups Can Crush Enterprise AI Sales | E2050
23 November 2024
How Startups Can Crush Enterprise AI Sales | E2050

This Week in Startups is brought to you by…


LinkedIn Ads. To redeem a $100 LinkedIn ad credit and launch your first campaign, go to http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups


Zendesk. A service-first CRM company with support, sales, and customer engagement products designed to improve customer relationships. Qualifying startups can join the Zendesk for Startups Program and get six free months of Zendesk products. Visit https://zendesk.com/startups today to get started.


Beehiiv. Power your newsletters with AI tools, referral programs, and ad network features—all in one platform. Get 30 days free and 20% off your first 3 months at https://www.beehiiv.com/twist


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Todays show:


Alex is joined by Joff Redfern and Derek Xiao of Menlo Ventures to discuss the significant role AI plays in modern workflows. We look behind the numbers of their recent report: “2024: The State of Generative AI in the Enterprise” while exploring AI spending trends in enterprises, with a focus on its impact on the healthcare and legal sectors. The conversation highlights popular AI use cases, the role of large language models in content creation, and workflow automation. We delve into advances in generative AI applications, enterprise spending, strategies for AI startups, training AI for market verticals, and the future of artificial general intelligence.


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Timestamps:


(0:00) Joff Redfern and Derek Xiao join Alex


(4:08) Yahoo's evolution and Anthropic's recent funding
(6:23) AI spending trends in enterprises


(10:14) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups


(12:20) AI's impact on healthcare and legal sectors and its rapid adoption
(19:25) Popular AI use cases in enterprises


(20:56) Zendesk - Get six months free at https://www.zendesk.com/startups


(23:17) The role of LLMs in content creation and workflow automation
(27:04) Advances in generative AI applications and agentic systems


(30:43) Beehiiv - Get 30 days free and 20% off your first 3 months at https://www.beehiiv.com/twist


(32:14) Enterprise generative AI spend, ROI, and budget expansion
(38:45) Selecting generative AI tools and AI-first startup opportunities
(47:43) Competition and strategies for AI startups
(50:10) Training AI for market verticals and the future of AGI
(53:03) Recap of enterprise AI spend and trends


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Want to host or join the next Founder Fridays? Check out https://www.founderfridays.tech


Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com


Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com


Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp


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Links from the show:
Check out Menlo Ventures: https://menlovc.com/
Menlo’s report “2024: The State of Generative AI in the Enterprise”: https://menlovc.com/2024-the-state-of-generative-ai-in-the-enterprise/


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Follow Joff:


X: https://x.com/mejoff


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mejoff/


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Follow Derek:


X: https://x.com/derekgxiao


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derekgxiao/


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Follow Alex:


X: https://x.com/alex


LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm


*


Thank you to our partners:


(10:14) LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups


(20:56) Zendesk - Get six months free at https://www.zendesk.com/startups


(30:43) Beehiiv - Get 30 days free and 20% off your first 3 months at https://www.beehiiv.com/twist


*


Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland


*


Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis


*


Follow TWiST:


Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups


YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups


TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups


Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com


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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916


TWiST News: Nvidia's AI Edge, Google Might Have to Sell Chrome, and Founder Fridays Updates | E2049
22 November 2024
TWiST News: Nvidia's AI Edge, Google Might Have to Sell Chrome, and Founder Fridays Updates | E2049

This Week in Startups is brought to you by…


Ramp. The corporate card and spend management software designed to help you save time and money. Get $250 when you join Ramp today at https://www.ramp.com/twist.


DevSquad. Most dev agencies only offer developers. Why? Because product management is hard. Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist.


Digital Ocean. Whether you’re just getting started with AI, or seeing your project take off, DigitalOcean is the cloud platform that lets you focus on what matters: building killer apps. Right now get up to $100k in free credits at https://www.do.co/twist. Terms and conditions apply.


*


Todays show:


Jason and Alex kick off the show with a deep dive into Nvidia’s blowout earnings and the skyrocketing demand for its upcoming Blackwell chips. Meanwhile, Google’s search monopoly took center stage as proposed remedies, including a potential Chrome divestment, sparked heated debate. To unpack the implications, Brave’s Jean-Paul Schmetz joined the discussion, offering insights into the fight for search independence. The episode wrapped up with updates from three Founder Friday hosts, sharing what they’re hearing from the builders shaping the future.


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Timestamps:


(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show


(3:20) Google's antitrust case and DOJ's proposed remedies


(5:22) Nvidia's market performance and AI chip competition


(7:00) Nvidia's Blackwell architecture and AI advancements


(9:45) Ramp. Get $250 when you join Ramp today at https://www.ramp.com/twist.


(11:13) Google's advertising market dominance and Chrome divestiture


(21:00) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist


(22:50) DOJ's negotiation strategy with Google


(25:50) Brave browser's business model, competition, and privacy focus


(31:00) DigitalOcean - DigitalOcean is the cloud platform you need to turn your AI project into a rocket ship. Right now, approved listeners can get up to $100,000 in free credits to try us out. Visit https://www.do.co/twist - get started and view terms and conditions.


(32:13) Brave's search engine development and DOJ's impact


(40:26) AI's role in search technology and the future of browsers


(44:08) DOJ's remedies and their effect on smaller search engines


(46:22) Google's growth strategies and M&A outlook


(51:03) Founder culture, motivation, and Founder Fridays initiative


(58:50) Founder Fridays host Georges Colbert joins the show


(1:06:12) Founder Fridays experiences in Longview, Texas with Kitty and Coco


(1:15:09) Endora's success and advice for Founder Fridays hosts


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Want to host or join the next Founder Fridays? Check out https://www.founderfridays.tech


Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com


Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com


Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp


*


Mentioned on the show:
Check out Albetroz: https://albatroz.ai/


Check out Endora: https://www.endora.app/


Check out Brave: https://search.brave.com/


https://www.reuters.com/technology/artificial-intelligence/microsoft-backed-startup-d-matrix-launches-first-ai-chip-2024-11-19


https://x.com/Jason/status/1859630517894983977


https://blog.google/outreach-initiatives/public-policy/doj-search-remedies-nov-2024


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Follow Jean-Paul:


X: https://x.com/jpschmetz


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpschmetz


*


Follow Kitty:


X: https://x.com/endorakitty


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kittyboglesherman


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Follow Coco:


X: https://x.com/endoracoco


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cocoharmon


*


Follow Alex:


X: https://x.com/alex


LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm


*


Follow Jason:


X: https://twitter.com/Jason


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis


*


Thank you to our partners:


(9:45) Ramp. Get $250 when you join Ramp today at https://www.ramp.com/twist.


(21:00) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist


(31:00) DigitalOcean. DigitalOcean is the cloud platform you need to turn your AI project into a rocket ship. Right now, approved listeners can get up to $100,000 in free credits to try us out. Visit https://www.do.co/twist - get started and view terms and conditions.


*


Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland


*


Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis


*


Follow TWiST:


Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups


YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups


TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups


Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com


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Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916


TWiST News: Venture-Backed Defense Startups, Anti-Drone Guns, and Querio's AI Data Platform | E2048
21 November 2024
TWiST News: Venture-Backed Defense Startups, Anti-Drone Guns, and Querio's AI Data Platform | E2048

This Week in Startups is brought to you by…


Vanta. Compliance and security shouldn't be a deal-breaker for startups to win new business. Vanta makes it easy for companies to get a SOC 2 report fast. TWiST listeners can get $1,000 off for a limited time at https://www.vanta.com/twist


OpenPhone. Create business phone numbers for you and your team that work through an app on your smartphone or desktop. TWiST listeners can get an extra 20% off any plan for your first 6 months at https://www.openphone.com/twist⁠


Sprig. The Product Experience platform that generates AI-powered opportunities to continuously improve your product at scale. Visit https://www.sprig.com/twist to book a demo and get a $75 gift card.


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Todays show:


Jason and Alex dig into why Nvidia's latest earnings report is such a big deal, and how the chip giant could help keep the AI hype alive. Or, how it could poke a hole in market enthusiasm. The pair also welcome the CEO of Allen Control Systems to discuss building venture-backed defense companies. Then, the CEO of Querio joins the show to show off what his company has built.


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Timestamps:


(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show


(1:32) Nvidia’s expected $33B revenue and its transition from gaming GPUs to AI workloads.


(9:01) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist


(10:05) Nvidia’s growth over time


(15:55) When will an Nvidia lighthouse customer switch to a competitor’s product?


(22:28) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist⁠


(23:28) Allen Control Systems’ Steven Simoni joins the show


(32:38) Sprig - Visit https://www.sprig.com/twist to book a demo and get a $75 gift card.


(33:52) The rise of venture-backed defense startups and autonomous systems for military applications


(50:20) Querio’s Rami Abi Habib joins the show


(55:38) Demo of Querio’s platform


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Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com


Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com


Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp


*


Mentioned on the show:


Check out Allen Control Systems: https://www.allencontrolsystems.com


Check out Querio: https://querio.ai


*


Follow Steven:


X: https://x.com/stevensimoni


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevensimoni


*


Follow Rami:


X: https://x.com/ramiabih


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/datarami


*


Follow Alex:


X: https://x.com/alex


LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm


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Follow Jason:


X: https://twitter.com/Jason


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis


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Thank you to our partners:


(9:01) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist


(22:28) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist⁠


(32:38) Sprig - Visit https://www.sprig.com/twist to book a demo and get a $75 gift card.


*


Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland


*


Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis


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Follow TWiST:


Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups


YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups


TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups


Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com


*


Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916


Anatomy of a Win-Win Acquisition: Synergy, Growth, AI, and the Future of SaaS | E2047
19 November 2024
Anatomy of a Win-Win Acquisition: Synergy, Growth, AI, and the Future of SaaS | E2047

Todays show:


Spenser Skates and James Evans join Alex to discuss Amplitude's acquisition of Command AI, shedding light on recent startup M&A trends and the strategic vision behind this move. The conversation delves into Command AI's user assistance technology and its integration into Amplitude, which aims to enhance user surveys and feedback. Spenser outlines Amplitude's product-led growth strategy and its approach to scaling through acquisitions while managing risks and ensuring cultural alignment. The discussion also covers the acquisition deal structure, regulatory concerns, and the decision-making process between raising funds and selling. Also, we hear Spenser’s unfiltered take on private equity and regulatory oversight!


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Timestamps:


(0:00) Spenser Skates of Amplitude & James Evans of CommandAI join Alex.


(1:40) Startup M&A trends and Amplitude's acquisition of Command AI


(4:30) Overview of Command AI's user assistance technology


(7:05) Integration and benefits of Command AI within Amplitude


(10:17) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST


(11:45) Enhancements in user surveys and feedback with Command AI


(16:58) Amplitude's strategic vision behind acquiring Command AI


(20:22) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://gusto.com/twist


(21:28) Product-led growth and enhancing user experience at Amplitude


(26:08) Amplitude's approach to scaling through strategic acquisitions


(30:01) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist


(31:30) Managing acquisition risks, integration, and cultural alignment


(35:19) Acquisition discussions and deal negotiation


(39:48) Acquisition deal structure and stakeholder conviction


(42:08) Addressing regulatory concerns and valuation mismatches in acquisitions


(44:20) Decision-making: Raising funds vs. selling a company


(46:00) Post-acquisition: Integrating Command AI's technology


(49:37) Amplitude's future growth strategy and leadership


(54:00) Transition from founder mode to distributed leadership


(56:15) Role of AI in Amplitude's product development


(59:44) AI model considerations and financial sustainability in B2B software


(1:01:34) Market position and growth of Command AI


*


Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com


Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com


Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp


*


Mentioned on the show:


Check out Amplitude: https://amplitude.com


Check out CommandAI: https://www.command.ai


*


Follow Spenser:


X: https://x.com/spenserskates


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/spenserskates


*


Follow James:


X: https://x.com/dazzeloid


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-evans-7086b3126/


*


Follow Alex:


X: https://x.com/alex


LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm


*


Thank you to our partners:


(10:17) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST


(20:22) Gusto - Get three months free when you run your first payroll at http://gusto.com/twist


(30:01) DevSquad - Get an entire product team for the cost of one US developer plus 10% off at http://devsquad.com/twist


*


Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland


*


Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis


*


Follow TWiST:


Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups


YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups


TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups


Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com


*


Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916


TWiST News: Netflix Goes Live, The FCC Revamp, Free Speech, and Regulatory Shifts | E2046
19 November 2024
TWiST News: Netflix Goes Live, The FCC Revamp, Free Speech, and Regulatory Shifts | E2046

This Week in Startups is brought to you by…


Coda. A new doc that brings words, tables and teams together. All your valuable data, plans, objectives, and strategies in one place. Go to https://www.coda.io/twist to get a $1,000 credit!


Lemon.io - Hire pre-vetted remote developers, get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist


Kyte. Looking to get out of the city? Rent a car with Kyte. Kyte delivers rental cars to your door. No counter, no lines, no hassle. Download the Kyte app today and use code JASON to save 10% on your first rental.


*


Todays show:


Alex Wilhelm joins Jason to discuss Netflix's 'fight' night, exploring content rights, media models, and the fragmentation of sports. They then covered Brendan Carr's promotion to FCC chair, a win for satellite Internet but raising concerns about business interference. The conversation shifted to global social media regulation before examining the tech community's excitement about Emil Michael potentially leading the Department of Transportation.


*


Timestamps:


(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show


(1:14) Netflix's live event issues and potential in sports streaming


(6:28) The growing intersection of professional wrestling, sports betting, and viewership


(10:03) Evolving business models in streaming: Advertising vs. subscription


(11:55) Coda - Get a $1,000 startup credit at https://coda.io/twist


(13:49) The future landscape of sports streaming rights and network deals


(17:17) Maintaining editorial independence in media companies


(20:24) Analyzing NFL viewership trends and their influence on television


(21:11) Netflix's content strategy and Amazon Prime's new ad policies


(23:10) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist


(24:39) AI, monetization, and the move towards ad-free experiences


(27:49) Exploring the viability of Netflix hosting pay-per-view events


(33:52) Brendan Carr's FCC chairmanship and the future of rural broadband


(38:22) The role of the free market in social media platform regulations


(32:21) Kyte - Download the Kyte app today and use code JASON to save 10%
on your first rental.


(45:02) Political shifts and their impact on tech and social media


(49:50) TikTok's regulatory challenges and UK censorship laws


(1:03:11) Emil Michael's potential cabinet position and government efficiency


(1:12:26) Strategies for balancing the federal budget and reducing national debt


(1:16:19) ByteDance's valuation amidst US restrictions


*


Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com


Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com


*


Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp


*


Mentioned on the show:


https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/boxing/2024/11/15/mike-tyson-jake-paul-netflix-issues-buffering-reactions/76343456007


https://www.cnn.com/2024/11/18/media/brendan-carr-trump-fcc-nominee-project-2025/index.html


*


Follow Alex:


X: https://x.com/alex


LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm


*


Follow Jason:


X: https://twitter.com/Jason


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis


*


Thank you to our partners:


(11:55) Coda - Get a $1,000 startup credit at https://coda.io/twist


(23:10) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist


(32:21) Kyte - Download the Kyte app today and use code JASON to save 10%
on your first rental.


*


Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland


*


Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis


*


Follow TWiST:


Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups


YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups


TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups


Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com


*


Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916


Misaligned Incentives Between GPs and Founders with Altimeter's Jamin Ball | E2045
15 November 2024
Misaligned Incentives Between GPs and Founders with Altimeter's Jamin Ball | E2045

This Week in Startups is brought to you by…


LinkedIn Jobs. A business is only as strong as its people, and every hire matters. Go to https://www.linkedin.com/twist to post your first job for free. Terms and conditions apply.


Beehiiv. Power your newsletters with AI tools, referral programs, and ad network features—all in one platform. Get 30 days free and 20% off your first 3 months at https://www.beehiiv.com/twist


CLA. Innovation takes balance. CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors can help you get from startup to where you want to end up. Get started now at https://www.CLAconnect.com/tech


*


Todays show:


Altimeter's Jamin Ball joins Alex Wilhelm to discuss VC-founder dynamics, fund returns, rapid fundraising, and its impact on M&A. They cover public vs. private valuations, startup liquidity, AI's influence, SaaS trends, and Jamin’s outlook on IPOs and exits.


*


Timestamps:


(0:00) Jamin joins Alex to kick off the show


(6:30) Alignment of incentives between VCs and founders


(10:25) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist


(11:54) Venture capital allocation demand and its impact


(15:55) Comparison of returns between small and large venture funds


(21:54) Beehiiv - Get 30 days free and 20% off your first 3 months at https://www.beehiiv.com/twist


(23:23) Power laws in startups and venture capital's impact


(24:19) Effects of rapid fundraising cycles on founders


(31:33) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech


(32:59) Raising large rounds and long-term commitments


(35:15) Venture capital's influence on startup M&A activity


(37:38) Public vs private market valuation disparities


(39:24) Future of startup liquidity and exit scenarios


(46:06) Proposals for realigning venture capital funds and founder incentives


(47:41) Impact of AI on startup growth and venture capital


(52:20) SaaS multiples and cloud software market analysis


(57:43) Software spending trends and startup optimism for 2024


(1:00:15) Procurement scrutiny in startup budgets and market differentiation


(1:01:17) Promising companies and Jamin Ball's investment outlook


(1:01:28) Expectations for IPOs and startup exits in the coming year


*


Mentioned on the show:


Join Jamin’s substack here: https://cloudedjudgement.substack.com/


Jamin’s article: https://cloudedjudgement.substack.com/p/clouded-judgement-102524-misaligned


Check out Altimeter: https://www.altimeter.com/home


Follow Bill Gurlery on X: https://x.com/bgurley


Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com


Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com


*


Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp


*


Follow Jamin:


X: https://x.com/jaminball


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamin-ball-49366137


*


Follow Alex:


X: https://x.com/alex


LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm


*


Follow Jason:


X: https://twitter.com/Jason


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis


*


Thank you to our partners:


(10:25) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist


(21:54) Beehiiv - Get 30 days free and 20% off your first 3 months at https://www.beehiiv.com/twist


(31:33) CLA - Get started with CLA's CPAs, consultants, and wealth advisors now at https://claconnect.com/tech


*


Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland


*


Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis


*


Follow TWiST:


Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups


YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups


TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups


Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com


*


Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916