Austinpreneur

AI conversations often center on engineers and developers but Seth Halpern, Co-founder of Embrace AI, believes the real early wins are happening on the revenue side of the business. In this episode, Seth and Nick explore how AI is transforming marketing, sales, enablement, and customer success.Seth breaks down practical applications: using AI to generate content at scale, personalize outbound messaging with tools like Clay, and arm sales teams with instant, accurate answers to technical questions. The result is faster onboarding, better conversations, and more confident sellers, especially in complex B2B environments.The discussion highlights a key shift: AI isn’t replacing humans in revenue roles; it’s amplifying generalists and enabling small teams to punch far above their weight. From identifying a prospect’s tech stack before a call to turning voice notes into polished thought leadership, Seth shares real-world examples founders can use immediately.For investors, this episode reveals why AI-powered revenue infrastructure may be one of the most defensible and scalable categories emerging today.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at https://capitalfactory.com/online/

When asked how startups should think about metrics, Co-Founder and CEO of 512 Financial, Bart Davis, has a refreshingly simple answer: pick the handful that keep you up at night and build systems around those first.In this episode, recorded live at Austin Tech Week 2025, Bart explains the dangers of “metric bloat,” where companies track everything and understand nothing. He outlines how founders should evaluate their stage, identify the KPIs that truly drive outcomes, and avoid falling for shiny software tools that create reporting for reporting’s sake.Host Nick Spiller and Bart also discuss the shift in the funding environment: why the “growth at all costs” era collapsed, how rising interest rates changed investor expectations, and why profitability and discipline matter more now than ever.If you’re building a company and struggling to separate signal from noise, this episode offers a clean, concise roadmap for getting back to operational basics.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at https://capitalfactory.com/online/

If you’ve ever wondered what makes one tequila “cleaner” than another, this episode, recorded live at Austin Tech Week 2025, answers it. Luis Abundis breaks down Humano’s obsessive approach to purity beginning with high-sugar agave (typically 24–30 brix, far above industry average) grown from consistent DNA stock on family-run lands.Nick and Luis dive deep into the science: why open fermentation introduces impurities, how closed-tank fermentation preserves delicate aromatics, and how Humano’s in-house chemical engineer designed a custom yeast specifically for their flavor profile. They also explore the engineering decision to use a straight-column copper still, allowing more consistent cleaning and reducing unwanted aromas, a departure from traditional serpentine tubing.Luis then reveals how Humano uses double-barrel aging (new American oak + ex-bourbon) to craft its Reposado and Añejo expressions, blending complexity with approachability for modern tequila drinkers.For CPG founders, the lesson is powerful: innovation doesn’t require abandoning heritage, it requires elevating it.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at https://capitalfactory.com/online/

In this episode of Austinpreneur, recorded live at Austin Tech Week 2025, Nick Spiller sits down with Jesse Draper, founding partner of Halogen Ventures, who is fresh off closing a new $30M fund focused on what she calls the “Future of Family.” Draper, a fourth-generation VC, Emmy-nominated tech media pioneer, and unapologetic champion for women founders, breaks down the massive opportunity hiding in plain sight: technology that supports families at work, at home, and across every life stage.Drawing on insights from Halogen’s proprietary “Future of Family Study,” Jesse explains how childcare, eldercare, family finance, and health & wellness combine into a $7.5 trillion market, one that has been historically overlooked by venture capital despite its real, measurable demand.Nick and Jesse explore Halogen’s track record: 75+ portfolio companies, five unicorns, and early investments in breakout successes like Babylist, Trust & Will, HopSkipDrive, Metropolis, and Upwards. Jesse reveals why these businesses thrive by solving real problems for real families, and they scale massively.The conversation also highlights why Halogen doesn’t see this category as “impact investing” or a “charity play,” but as one of venture’s most financially compelling opportunities. Draper shares her philosophy on founder grit, category creation, and why investors underestimate markets simply because they don’t personally experience the problems.A must-listen for founders building in consumer tech, AI-enabled services, femtech, childcare, fintech, or family infrastructure, and for investors looking for the next trillion-dollar frontier.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at https://capitalfactory.com/online/

In this episode, recorded live at Austin Tech Week 2025, Nick Spiller sits down with David Zakariaie, founder and CEO of Senseye, the Austin-based deep-tech company turning eye-tracking and computer vision into the world’s first objective diagnostic for mental health. Zakariaie explains how Senseye’s 10-minute smartphone-based test measures ocular micro-movements to detect PTSD, anxiety, and depression, conditions currently “diagnosed” using little more than questionnaires and gut instinct.David walks through the scientific foundation: decades of fMRI research showing clear neurological signatures across mental health disorders, paired with Senseye’s breakthrough, running high-precision eye-tracking with nothing more than a phone camera. The result is a scalable, FDA-bound diagnostic platform aimed at modernizing the world’s most outdated healthcare category.Nick and David dive into Senseye’s origins as a high-school science project that caught the attention of the Office of Naval Research, the Air Force, and ultimately Capital Factory. Today, the company has completed large-scale Phase I and II clinical trials and is preparing for Phase III on the road to full FDA approval.For founders and investors, the conversation offers a masterclass in building a venture where science, regulation, and commercialization collide. David’s journey reveals how deep-tech startups blend government contracts, clinical milestones, and strategic capital to bring ambitious, impactful technology into the real world.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at https://capitalfactory.com/online/

Mike Maples Jr. didn’t make his mark by playing it safe—he built it by betting early on ideas that looked crazy… until they changed the world.In this new episode, Mike shares why conviction-based investing matters more than ever in an era defined by AI, defense tech, and dual-use innovation.Recorded live at Austin Tech Week 2025, Mike joins Joshua Baer to unpack how the post-ChatGPT economy is reshaping venture capital, why defense and industrial innovation are attracting the brightest founders, and how the U.S. can maintain its technological edge by empowering private innovators.Listeners will walk away inspired to invest—and build—at the intersection of purpose and profit.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at https://capitalfactory.com/online/

While most banks steer clear of early-stage defense contractors, Leonid Capital Partners runs toward them. Founding Partner James Parker explains how his team evaluates risk through contract data—not pitch decks. Leonid advances 50–75% of the remaining value on government contracts, prioritizes executed work over speculative awards, and rejects the “hyper-growth at all costs” mentality that defines many venture portfolios.Tune in to learn how Leonid’s acquisition-financing model uses stacked contracts as collateral to drive consolidation among small primes and SBIR winners. This conversation is a masterclass in financial engineering—revealing how to turn government backlogs into liquidity, resilience, and lasting enterprise value.This episode is sponsored by Every.io. Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at https://capitalfactory.com/online/

Startups often struggle to navigate the labyrinth of defense procurement. Mica Dolan, President & COO at ATI, offers a guide to cutting through it. She explains how Other Transaction Agreements empower the DOW to fund research, prototypes, and production without traditional red tape, accelerating innovation from months to weeks.Mica describes best practices learned from decades of managing multi-billion-dollar OTA portfolios: set clear mission alignment, foster trust between government and industry, and avoid “fishing expeditions” that waste everyone’s time. Her advice to startups? Focus on real problems, stay persistent, and leverage ATI’s matchmaking between small innovators and large integrators.This episode, recorded live at Fed Supernova 2025, gives founders a rare behind-the-scenes look at how the U.S. government is modernizing its acquisition strategy and how the most successful startups are positioning themselves as mission partners, not just vendors.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at https://capitalfactory.com/online/

In this episode, Josh Baer sits down with Tim Kopra, a decorated astronaut and Voyager Technologies Chief Human Exploration Officer, to discuss the next chapter in human spaceflight: the transition from the government-run International Space Station to privately owned commercial stations. Kopra recounts his journey from Army aviator to NASA astronaut and how years in orbit shaped his approach to leading a startup at the frontier of spacetech.He explains how Voyager Space, in partnership with Airbus Defence & Space and Palantir, is developing StarLab, a next-generation space station that will be launched on a single Starship rocket in 2029. Designed for research, manufacturing, and national-security applications, StarLab will host both government astronauts and commercial tenants, generating revenue while supporting NASA’s long-term exploration goals.For founders and investors, this conversation reveals what it takes to build a capital-intensive, multi-national startup that merges aerospace, venture capital, and government contracting into one bold vision for the future.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at https://capitalfactory.com/online/

In this Austinpreneur episode, recorded live at Fed Supernova 2025, host Nick Spiller sits down with Arthur Grijalva, Director of SpaceWERX, the U.S. Space Force’s innovation arm, to discuss how startups are reshaping national security in orbit. Grijalva explains how SPACEWERX connects entrepreneurs, private capital, and the military to accelerate technologies from concept to operations.Listeners learn how programs like SBIR, TACT-FI, and STRAT-FI give startups staged funding that can grow from a few hundred thousand dollars to tens of millions, de-risking cutting-edge ideas before scaling them into Space Force programs of record. For founders, this is a masterclass in how to enter the defense market; for investors, it’s a look at how federal capital and commercial dollars now work hand-in-hand to build the future of space infrastructure.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at https://capitalfactory.com/online/

In this episode, recorded live at Fed Supernova 2025, we sit down with Jason Hundley, Marine veteran, NASA researcher, and founder of X-Bow Systems, to explore how his team is rethinking solid rocket motors for the 21st century. Jason explains how traditional manufacturing relies on billion-dollar factories, giant explosive-proof mixers, and inflexible processes dating back to the Korean War. X-Bow’s innovation? Additive manufacturing of solid propellant: a safer, cheaper, and more adaptable way to build rocket motors.Jason compares his approach to switching from a massive water tank to a tankless water heater: instead of mixing 10,000 pounds at once, X-Bow continuously processes smaller amounts under tighter control. This unlocks not only cost savings, but also new possibilities in chemistry, performance, and automation. Investors will hear why this model could reduce production costs by up to 40% while scaling output to 10,000 motors per year at their new Texas campus.For startup fans, this is a story of how ingenuity and grit can disrupt entrenched industries and create dual-use opportunities in defense, aerospace, and beyond.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at https://capitalfactory.com/online/

In this episode of Austinpreneur, recorded live at Fed Supernova 2025, Nick Spiller talks with Leonard Lublin, Deputy General Manager of BAE Systems’ FAST Labs, the company’s advanced R&D arm. Leonard explains how FAST Labs operates differently from traditional defense primes: instead of running a corporate venture arm, they build partnerships with startups, encourage them to own their IP, and plug them into defense programs as suppliers and collaborators.He shares how tech scouts at BAE connect with founders—sometimes through accelerators and Capital Factory itself, and why BAE looks for everything from incremental improvements in sensors and algorithms to breakthrough technologies in AI, lasers, and microelectronics. For founders, this is a practical roadmap to getting plugged into the defense innovation ecosystem without giving up equity. For investors, it shows how startups can scale faster with prime partnerships than with capital alone.Learn more about BAE Systems FAST Labs here.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at https://capitalfactory.com/online/

In this episode, recorded live at Fed Supernova 2025, Nick Spiller sits down with Dr. Michael Webber, UT professor, GTI board member, and global energy thought leader, to explore the intersection of energy systems, policy, and innovation. Webber breaks down how massive federal bills, from the Inflation Reduction Act to the new “One Big Beautiful Bill,” are reshaping America’s energy mix. He explains why bipartisan support for nuclear, geothermal, and hydrogen is growing, and how shifting subsidies could drive both affordability concerns and long-term opportunities.The conversation dives deep into how AI and data centers are pushing electricity demand higher for the first time in decades and why that may ultimately accelerate trillions in new energy investments. Investors and entrepreneurs will hear how this demand is creating a “once-in-a-generation” opportunity for startups in storage, grid management, and clean power generation.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at https://capitalfactory.com/online/

Why do some businesses thrive through uncertainty while others crumble? According to serial entrepreneur, former Swiss Army officer and Capital Factory Mentor Sam Goodner, the difference comes down to discipline, systems, and culture—principles he’s captured in his upcoming book, Like Clockwork: Run Your Business with Swiss Army Precision.How does it work? By translating lessons from the Swiss Army and decades of building companies like Catapult Systems and FlashParking into practical tools founders can use: codifying values into “Golden Rules,” creating resilient onboarding practices, and designing organizations that can weather downturns.Join host, NickSpiller, as he sits down with Sam to explore the stories, strategies, and takeaways behind his journey. This is your chance to learn firsthand how to run your business with Swiss Army precision.Grab Sam’s new book, Like Clockwork, and unlock even more strategies to build a disciplined, resilient business: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FLQK1Y8S?maas=maas_adg_B9722D58867294F151B1CEA667B612A5_afap_abs&ref_=aa_maas&tag=maasStay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at https://capitalfactory.com/online/

When most entrepreneurs think of federal funding, they picture grants or SBIR awards. But Eric Robinson, of Baker Botts, reveals how the Office of Strategic Capital (OSC) is rewriting the playbook: a $200B program that provides direct loans and guarantees to companies critical to national security.In this conversation, recorded live at Fed Supernova 2025, Eric contrasts OSC with In-Q-Tel and other defense innovation players, showing why its credit-first model resonates with Congress and generates outsized leverage beyond its reserves. Through case studies like MP Materials—and a look ahead at potential equity authority—he outlines how startups and investors can position themselves to benefit from this once-in-a-generation shift in government-backed finance.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at https://capitalfactory.com/online/

In this episode of Austinpreneur, recorded live at Capital Factory, we sit down with Paradromics Founder and CEO, Matt Angle, to explore the cutting edge of brain-computer interfaces (BCIs). Paradromics recently became one of the first companies to successfully implant a high-bandwidth BCI in a human patient, a milestone in both neuroscience and technology entrepreneurship.Tune in as Matt explains BCIs as “modems for the brain,” devices that directly connect neurons to computers, unlocking the ability to restore lost communication for people with paralysis, and potentially enhance human experience for everyone. From helping ALS patients speak again to envisioning immersive, latency-free augmented reality, the conversation spans both humanitarian applications and the long-term implications of a world where thoughts can flow seamlessly into digital systems.But this isn’t just a science talk. Matt dives into the entrepreneurial side. For founders, this is a masterclass in perseverance, fundraising strategy, and building ambitious hardware in a software-dominated startup ecosystem.Listeners will come away with a clearer sense of where BCIs stand today, how close we are to mainstream adoption, and why Austin, Texas is fast becoming the BCI capital of the world.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at https://capitalfactory.com/online/

When expanding into new markets, especially in the Middle East, success isn’t about closing the fastest deal; it’s about building the right relationship.In this live-recorded episode from Capital Factory, Rudy Mirran draws on his experience managing multi-country operations and joint ventures to share how startups can land meaningful, mutually beneficial partnerships abroad. He unpacks sector priorities in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar, covering ag-tech, biotech, AI, and defense-adjacent dual-use technologies, and explains how founders can align with national strategies like Vision 2030, tap into publicly available market roadmaps, and position themselves as indispensable in-country partners.Beyond market entry strategy, Rudy shares candid stories from mentoring startups at Capital Factory, offering practical advice on getting the most out of mentorship, earning introductions to high-value contacts, and navigating the tricky waters of conflicting advisor feedback.Whether you’re a founder, investor, or ecosystem builder, this conversation blends high-level global trade insight with actionable, on-the-ground startup guidance—making it a must-listen for anyone eyeing international growth.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at https://capitalfactory.com/online/

Explore the future of space exploration with Jason Kim, CEO of Firefly Aerospace. In this episode, Jason discusses Firefly’s record-setting rocket launch, upcoming lunar missions, and the cutting-edge technologies driving space innovation. Recorded live before an audience at Capital Factory, this conversation delves into personal stories of aerospace inspiration and offers insights on creating a resilient space workforce. Discover a fascinating glimpse into the next frontier of humanity’s journey to the stars.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at https://capitalfactory.com/online/This episode was originally published on December 10, 2024.

What does it take to craft a pitch that truly captivates investors?In this episode, recorded live at Capital Factory House 2025, Allyson Eman, CEO of Venture Atlanta, breaks down the key elements of a winning pitch. Drawing from her experience connecting hundreds of startups with thousands of investors at one of the nation’s top VC conferences, she shares practical tips, common pitfalls, and what investors really want to hear.Originally published on May 13, 2025.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at https://capitalfactory.com/podcast/

Dive into the up and coming Texas whiskey scene with Chris Seals, CEO & Founder of Still Austin. As the pioneering distillery within Austin’s city limits since the days of prohibition, Still Austin embodies the spirit of innovation and tradition.In this episode of Austinpreneur, recorded for a live audience at Capital Factory, Chris Seals unfolds his unconventional narrative — a transformation from an economist to a whiskey-driven entrepreneur. Discover the secrets behind his pursuit of crafting a whiskey brand destined to stand the test of time, spanning a century of excellence. Gain exclusive insights into the intricacies of Chris’s entrepreneurial odyssey, from navigating the challenges of building a legacy brand to securing essential capital through the Central Texas Angel Network.This episode was originally published on January 29, 2024.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at https://capitalfactory.com/online/

On this episode, get an inside take on the race to establish sustainable life on the moon from the CTO and Co-Founder of Intuitive Machines, Dr, Tim Crain. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, Intuitive Machines (NASDAQ: LUNR) is the most NASA-awarded commercial lunar program. The company has three missions that will deliver NASA and commercial payloads into orbit and on the surface of the Moon. We hope you enjoy this discussion about aerospace engineering, government funding and venture capital as tools for becoming a successful space entrepreneur.This episode was originally published on July 31, 2023.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at https://capitalfactory.com/online/

In this episode, we’re joined by Jeff Cardenas, CEO and Co-founder of Apptronik, a company on a mission to build the ultimate tool for humans: humanoid robots. Jeff shares his entrepreneurial journey, from early ventures in political tech to co-founding Apptronik, and how his path led to building Apollo, one of the most advanced humanoid robots in the world.We explore how robotics can help free humans from repetitive or dangerous tasks, allowing us to focus more on meaningful and creative pursuits. Along the way, Jeff offers insights into the future of human-robot collaboration and how his team is making science fiction feel a lot more like reality.This episode was originally published on June 27, 2023.About Apptronik: Maker of world leading humanoid robot, Apollo Partnered with NASA, U.S. Army, SOCCOM and other DOD agencies fueling development. $25M+ raised in venture capital from Grit Ventures, Capital Factory and recently Terex. Spun out of Human Centered Robotics Lab at The University of Texas.

Recorded live at Health Supernova 2025, Nick Spiller and Susanna Harris discuss how hospitals are ripe for innovation yet riddled with bureaucratic “antibodies” that reject anything new.In this episode, Harris shares how deep-tech startups can navigate that resistance: by identifying decision-makers, uncovering the unspoken reasons behind a “no,” and proving not only clinical value but economic impact. She breaks down the difference between a bedside innovation clinicians love and a procurement nightmare administrators block—and explains why your internal champion must speak both languages. The result is a tactical roadmap for bringing breakthrough diagnostics, AI triage tools, and bio-manufacturing platforms from pilot projects to system-wide adoption.Bringing a medical device to life? DesignPlex Biomedical has your back. They help startups and innovators go from first sketch to full-scale manufacturing—specializing in Class II and III devices. Whether it’s a redesign or a brand-new idea, they'll guide you through prototyping, development, and production. Think of them as your med-tech launch partner. 💡 Ready to build something life-changing? Visit designplexbio.com to get started.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at https://capitalfactory.com/online/

AI can write emails, but can it make surgery safer?In this episode, recorded live at Health Supernova 2025, Orchestra Health's, Co-Founder & Chief Medical Officer, Stu Solomon, reveals how his company is using AI to tackle one of healthcare’s biggest pain points: surgical delays and errors.By transforming chaotic data sources like PDFs, faxes, and EMRs into clean, structured patient profiles, Orchestra’s tech helps hospitals reduce cancellations, cut costs, and boost patient safety — all without adding complexity for clinicians.Stu dives into the real-world ROI, the challenges of hospital adoption, and why tomorrow’s doctors might need to be as fluent in prompts as they are in procedures.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at https://capitalfactory.com/online/

In this episode, Jonathan Lacoste, founder and General Partner of Space VC, shares why raising $90M isn’t always the golden ticket and how retaining equity, focus, and vision can outperform flashier headlines. Recorded live at TechConnect 2025, Jonathan dives into how founders should think long-term, the pitfalls of venture capital hype, and the smart ways to scale companies in frontier tech. From spy satellites to hypersonics, Jonathan reveals how Space VC is betting big on sectors like defense, energy, and space, and what it takes for founders to capture investor conviction at the pre-seed stage. Packed with wisdom for operators and investors alike, this episode, sponsored by ATI, is a must-listen for anyone serious about startup sustainability.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at https://capitalfactory.com/online/

Aasim Hasan brings his deep product and engineering experience to the world of venture capital, shaping how he evaluates startups. In this episode, recorded for a live audience at Capital Factory, he dives into spotting red flags and green lights in B2B startups, Moneta’s thesis-driven investing, and their hands-on operator support. Discover what types of founders succeed in their portfolio and get insider insights on pitching Moneta. Whether you’re a founder or curious about how modern VCs think, this episode is your essential guide.Get the best Austinpreneur updates at www.capitalfactory.com/podcast

Dive into this episode, recorded for a live audience at Capital Factory House during SXSW® 2024, for a discussion with a seasoned serial entrepreneur boasting a portfolio of 15 successful ventures, including the renowned telemedicine giant Teledoc, Michael Gorton. Join Nick Spiller, Venture Principal at Capital Factory, as he sits down with Gorton to explore the nuances of market timing, cultivating a vibrant company culture, and venturing into the intriguing realm of tachyon tunnels through a lens of physics.Michael's curiosity has no limits with his degrees in Physics, Engineering, Law and a minor in English. On top of pioneering telemedicine, Michael founded Internet Global where he developed the world's first DSL and VOIP networks. He's also an accomplished author in a variety of categories including business, science fiction and historical fiction. Outside of work, Michael is a runner, Second Degree Black Belt in Kenpo and a mountain climber having scaled the highest elevation in 43 states. This episode is a rebroadcast that originally published on April 9, 2024.Get the best Austinpreneur updates at www.capitalfactory.com/podcast

Dive into the mind of rising venture capitalist Ariel Ganz, a postdoctoral fellow at Stanford University School of Medicine, in this conversation recorded live in Dallas at Health Supernova 2024. Drawing from her frontline experience with Arben Ventures and her pioneering research, Ariel shares fresh insights into the future of healthcare innovation.Explore a wide spectrum of groundbreaking topics, from electronic drugs and precision medicine to advances in breast cancer treatment and beyond.This episode is a rebroadcast of the original release from June 17, 2024.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at https://capitalfactory.com/online/

What began as a college experiment with PVC-pipe drones has evolved into a groundbreaking public safety solution. Roger Pecina, CEO of eVe Vehicles Corporation, shares how he turned early prototypes into a platform for autonomous emergency response.Learn how eVe Vehicles Corporation has completed over 1,000 autonomous missions in Bee Cave, Texas, and is addressing first responder shortages with scalable drone technology. A must-listen for anyone interested in drones, civic tech, and hardware startups making a real-world impact.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at https://capitalfactory.com/online/

What does it take to craft a pitch that truly captivates investors?In this episode, recorded live at Capital Factory House 2025, Allyson Eman, CEO of Venture Atlanta, breaks down the key elements of a winning pitch. Drawing from her experience connecting hundreds of startups with thousands of investors at one of the nation’s top VC conferences, she shares practical tips, common pitfalls, and what investors really want to hear.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at https://capitalfactory.com/online/

In an era where drones are reshaping modern conflict, how do we stay one step ahead?In this special live episode, recorded at Capital Factory House 2025, former Navy veteran Steven Simoni, Co-founder and President of Allen Control Systems, dives into the escalating threat of drone warfare and what it takes to build the technologies that defend against it. From national security to battlefield innovation, this conversation pulls back the curtain on one of the most urgent tech challenges of our time.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at https://capitalfactory.com/online/

Sam Cossman never set out to revolutionize firefighting—but that’s exactly what he did.In this episode, recorded live at Capital Factory House 2025, Sam, CEO & Co-founder of Qwake, shares how his unconventional path as a volcano-diving adventurer led to building tools that help firefighters work smarter and safer.Driven by necessity, forged through extreme field testing, and grounded in deep respect for tradition, Qwake created an AR-enabled helmet that’s transforming how first responders see and operate in the most dangerous conditions. From pioneering NASA-grade thermal systems to collaborating with the Department of Homeland Security, Qwake’s journey is a masterclass in building rugged, life-critical hardtech.Tune in to hear what it really takes to engineer gear that survives the extremes—because when lives are on the line, failure isn’t an option.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at www.capitalfactory.com/podcast

Why toss your old laptop when it could live another life—and another—without ever hitting a landfill?That’s the question driving John Erik Metcalf, CEO & Co-founder of Upgraded, who joins Nick Spiller to talk about building a business that’s equal parts circular economy, fintech, and tech retail. John dives into his 10+ years of startup experience, from early coworking projects in Austin to launching leasing platforms for Apple products in Scandinavia. He shares lessons on team-building, fundraising, and why you shouldn’t just mimic Elon Musk.Whether you’re deep in product ops, raising your next round, or simply curious about the future of sustainable tech, this episode delivers fresh perspective on what it means to scale with purpose.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at www.capitalfactory.com/podcast

AI is no longer a futuristic concept—it's today’s competitive edge.Recorded live at Capital Factory House 2025, Jesse Lozano, Co-founder and CEO of Intellectible, reveals how top businesses are turning AI into a profit-driving machine. With over five years of experience building on OpenAI and other LLMs, Jesse shares real-world strategies that are delivering serious results.From automating RFPs and due diligence to accelerating research, Intellectible’s no-code platform is reshaping how teams work—saving time, cutting costs, and creating new value for customers.Listen in to learn how you can harness AI to drive revenue, streamline operations, and stay ahead of the curve.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at www.capitalfactory.com/podcast

Unlock the future of cell & gene therapy in this episode of Austinpreneur, recorded live at Capital Factory House 2025. Join Ryan Swoboda, CEO & Co-Founder of NAVAN, as he unveils the revolutionary NanoStraw technology. Designed to precisely deliver next-gen therapies into all primary cell types, NanoStraw is poised to reshape the landscape of cancer treatments and regenerative medicine. Discover how this breakthrough innovation is transforming healthcare and opening new frontiers in cell therapy.Tune in to explore the exciting intersection of technology and medicine driving the future of healthcare!Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at www.capitalfactory.com/podcast

The VC landscape is shifting—so how can founders stay ahead?In this special episode of Austinpreneur, recorded live at Capital Factory House 2025, Samantha Lewis, Partner at Mercury, shares what fundraising looks like in 2025.With a decade of experience shaping the Houston startup ecosystem, Sam has backed some of the most promising early-stage companies in fintech, AI, blockchain, and data platforms. Now investing from Austin, she offers an insider perspective on how Mercury’s investment thesis has evolved, what early-stage founders need to know about raising capital today, and the key traits that make a startup stand out. She also dives into the red flags that turn investors away and how founders can successfully connect with VCs—even without a warm intro.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at www.capitalfactory.com/podcast

How does a deep-tech startup go from a $50,000 prototype to a $100 million defense contract? In this special episode, recorded live at Capital Factory House 2025, Col. Elliott J. Leigh and Col. Nathan Stuckey reveal how AFWERX is de-risking defense innovation and creating scalable pathways for startups.They break down the biggest challenges of transitioning technology into the U.S. Air Force, why government funding is the key to unlocking private capital, and how startups can navigate the complex world of defense procurement—and win.If you're an entrepreneur looking to crack the Air Force innovation pipeline, this is your step-by-step playbook to take your tech from the lab to the warfighter.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at www.capitalfactory.com/podcast

Space isn’t just for NASA anymore. Texas is taking the lead in space commercialization, defense, and workforce development—and in this episode, Nick Spiller chats with Norman Garza, Executive Director of the Texas Space Commission, to break it all down. With giants like SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Intuitive Machines setting up shop in the Lone Star State, Texas isn’t just participating in the 21st-century space race—it’s winning. Garza shares how the Texas Space Commission is fueling innovation through bold investments, cutting-edge university partnerships, and next-gen facilities. What does the Texas space industry look like in 2035? Buckle up and tune in to find out.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at www.capitalfactory.com/podcast

What does it take to turn a first-time pitch into a thriving rideshare platform with over 200 vehicles on the road? In this episode, Joshua Baer, CEO & Founder of Capital Factory, sits down with Matthew Iommi, CEO & Co-Founder of Fetii, to explore the journey behind building Fetii from the ground up. Matthew shares the hard-earned lessons from navigating the highs and lows of entrepreneurship—crafting a standout value proposition, taking on industry giants like Uber, and transforming challenges into opportunities. Get ready for a masterclass in persistence, creativity, and execution straight from the trenches of startup life.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at www.capitalfactory.com/podcast

In this episode, Walker Drewett, Founder of NuBrakes, takes us on his journey from a simple idea to a scalable startup. With candid insights and hard-earned lessons, he reveals how late-night garage hustles, customer obsession, and strategic pivots turned his vision into reality. Tune in to hear about tough talks with co-founders, make-or-break moments, and the bold decisions that shaped his entrepreneurial path.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at www.capitalfactory.com/podcast

What if running a biotech experiment were as simple as writing a line of code?In this episode, Brian Frezza, CEO and Co-Founder of Emerald Cloud Lab, opens the door to the groundbreaking world of cloud-based research and automation in biology.Discover how Emerald Cloud Lab empowers scientists to conduct experiments remotely—leaving the heavy lifting to robotic systems and expert staff in fully automated labs. Brian shares the vision that sparked the company, the challenges of building a revolutionary platform over more than a decade, and how democratizing access to advanced research tools could transform the future of science.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at www.capitalfactory.com/podcast

In this episode of Austinpreneur, Joshua Baer, founder of Capital Factory, sits down with Liv Boeree—Poker Champion, TED speaker, and decision-making strategist—to explore the art of betting on yourself. Liv delves into the psychology behind high-stakes decision-making, the secrets to crafting win-win strategies, and the societal challenges posed by coordination failures, known as Moloch Traps. Whether you're navigating the poker table, building a startup, or striving to make smarter decisions in life, this episode delivers actionable insights to help you think strategically, lead confidently, and win big. Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at www.capitalfactory.com/podcast

What does it take to launch a game-changing defense technology startup? Dino Mavrookas, CEO of Saronic Technologies, shares his incredible journey of building autonomous maritime solutions for the U.S. Navy.From navigating the complexities of the defense sector to assembling a world-class team, Dino reveals the grit, strategy, and innovation it takes to bring three revolutionary products to market in under two years. With a background as a Navy SEAL and private equity executive, he provides invaluable insights into balancing vision, execution, and risk in one of the world’s most demanding industries.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at www.capitalfactory.com/podcast

Explore the future of space exploration with Jason Kim, CEO of Firefly Aerospace. In this episode, Jason discusses Firefly’s record-setting rocket launch, upcoming lunar missions, and the cutting-edge technologies driving space innovation. Recorded live before an audience at Capital Factory, this conversation delves into personal stories of aerospace inspiration and offers insights on creating a resilient space workforce. Discover a fascinating glimpse into the next frontier of humanity’s journey to the stars.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at www.capitalfactory.com/podcast

In this episode of Austinpreneur, Brett Hurt, founder of Bazaarvoice and data.world, sits down with longtime friend Joshua Baer, founder of Capital Factory, for a conversation on building billion-dollar companies.Together, they reflect on their early collaborations, share lessons learned, and discuss pivotal moments that shaped their entrepreneurial journeys. From recruiting top talent to capitalizing on inflection points, this episode is filled with actionable advice for aspiring founders.Don’t miss Brett’s insights—and be sure to grab a copy of his book, The Entrepreneur’s Essentials: Lessons for Startup & Leadership Excellence!Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at www.capitalfactory.com/podcast

In this episode, Michelle Davey, CEO and Founder of Wheel, shares her inspiring journey of raising over $215M while transforming the world of virtual healthcare. From her early days as a technical recruiter at Google and Favor to becoming a trailblazer in telemedicine, Michelle reveals the pivotal moments and lessons that shaped her path to success.Tune in as she unpacks her fundraising strategies, offers advice for navigating innovation in healthcare, and highlights the power of Austin’s entrepreneurial ecosystem in building an exceptional company culture.This episode was recorded live at Capital Factory’s Women in Tech Summit during Austin Tech Week 2024. Michelle sits down with Dr. Talaya Waller, Founder of Valuables—an AI-powered enterprise brand management platform—for an insightful and empowering conversation.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at www.capitalfactory.com/podcast

In this episode, Justin Lopas, co-founder of Base Power, takes us through the fascinating story behind his groundbreaking energy startup. From his early days at SpaceX, where he helped build rockets, to his pivotal role at Anduril, Justin brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to solving real-world challenges. He explains how Base Power is leveraging innovative technology, smart policy strategies, and operational excellence to transform the way Texans access renewable energy. Justin also delves into the unique regulatory challenges of the Texas energy market and how Base Power is navigating these to provide decentralized energy solutions that improve grid reliability and reduce costs for consumers.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at www.capitalfactory.com/podcast

Get an insider’s look at Shark Tank Season 16’s premier pitch with Destin Bell, CEO of Card.io! In this live recording at Capital Factory, Destin shares how watching pitches on Shark Tank inspired his own journey as an entrepreneur and how relocating to Austin transformed Card.io’s growth. Tune in for behind-the-scenes moments from his pitch and key insights for entrepreneurs dreaming of the Tank. Don't miss Destin’s candid advice and exclusive stories about the highs, challenges, and surprises of pitching in front of the Sharks.Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at www.capitalfactory.com/podcast

Tune in for a dynamic conversation between two of the most influential early-stage investors: Jason Calacanis—angel investor, podcaster (All-In Podcast, This Week in Startups), and entrepreneur—and Joshua Baer, Founder & CEO of Capital Factory. Together, they dive into some of today’s most pressing topics, from the surge of Silicon Valley VCs relocating to Austin to navigating high-stakes boardroom discussions. Jason also shares insights on his recent move to Austin and his experience working from Capital Factory. Recorded live during Austin Tech Week 2025, this episode is packed with actionable insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives you won’t want to miss!Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at www.capitalfactory.com/podcast

The future of the U.S. Army is unfolding right here in Texas, and this episode of Austinpreneur offers you an exclusive insight into this transformation. As Austin's vibrant startup ecosystem leads the charge in defense innovation, we dive deep into how groundbreaking technology is reshaping national security for the modern age. Recorded live with an audience of Longhorn Startup students at The University of Texas, Kimberly Newton, Deputy Director of Integration at Army Futures Command, sits down with Joshua Baer, Founder & CEO of Capital Factory, for a discussion about the Army's forward-thinking initiatives.Tune in as Kimberly reveals how Army Futures Command is spearheading advancements in robotics and AI, forging impactful partnerships with local innovators, and redefining the landscape of national security in the 21st century. Stay updated with the latest from Austinpreneur at www.capitalfactory.com/podcast