Puck Academy

Unlocking Human Performance: A Deep Dive with Whoop's VP of AI, Ryan Durkin In this episode of The Next Next, host Jason Jacobs sits down with Ryan Durkin, VP of AI at Whoop, to discuss his journey from founding Campus Live to his innovative role at Whoop. They delve into Whoop's mission to become an AI-forward workplace, the strategic importance of AI in organizational roles, and the future of employee engagement in AI-driven environments. The conversation also touches on the broader implications of AI in the workplace, potential educational paradigms, and Jason's exploration into building an AI-driven platform for youth sports development. 00:00 Introduction to Today's Guest: Ryan Durkin 00:27 Ryan Durkin's Career Journey 01:05 Whoop's New AI Initiative 02:03 The Next Next: Show Overview 02:48 Big Announcements from Whoop 03:35 Whoop's Mission and Product Evolution 04:18 Jason's Personal Connection to Whoop 05:22 Ryan's Role and Journey to Whoop 06:50 AI at Work Initiative at Whoop 09:50 Building an AI-Forward Workplace 18:04 Implementing AI Tools and Strategies 28:27 Future of Work and AI Integration 30:03 Unlocking Human Potential in the Workplace 31:30 Reimagining Job Roles and Descriptions 32:36 The Future of Work and Automation 37:33 Balancing Work and Personal Life 38:56 The Role of Credentials in Career Success 42:04 Building a Youth Sports Platform 49:12 Prototyping and Entrepreneurship 53:49 Final Thoughts and Call to Action Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

Transforming CRM with AI: Anis Bennaceur of Attention.com In this episode of 'The Next Next,' Jason Jacobs interviews Anis Bennaceur, co-founder and CEO of Attention.com, a company that automates sales operations through AI agents. They discuss the challenges of Anis’ first startup and the breakthrough moment with GPT-3 that led to the creation of Attention. The conversation covers how attention addresses CRM filling pains, the evolving role of AI agents, the balance between launching products quickly and maintaining innovation, and the future of AI in business software. Anis explains the practical applications of AI, internal uses at Attention.com, and offers insights on building AI-enabled workflows and autonomous agents. The episode also touches on company efficiency, hiring, future priorities, and the growing importance of AI in the tech industry. 00:00 Introduction to The Next Next 01:43 Meet Anis Bennaceur: CEO of Attention02:51 The Genesis of Attention03:56 Early Challenges and Breakthroughs 06:01 Pivoting to CRM Automation 09:54 Building and Launching the MVP 21:05 Defining and Utilizing AI Agents 28:04 Understanding Customer Needs and AI Autonomy 28:47 Challenges in Tool Selection and Flexibility 29:49 Building Features and Tooling Perspective 31:43 Relationships with AI Providers 32:53 Network Effects in B2B 36:08 Implications of AI on Product Strategy 39:09 Leveraging AI Internally 41:39 Autonomous AI Agents and Workflow Automation 48:02 Efficient Business Operations with AI 52:49 Key Priorities and Future Outlook 54:06 Final Thoughts and Shoutouts Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

Elevating Gaming Performance: An Insight with Shaun Meredith, CTO of Omnic AI In this episode of The Next Next, host Jason Jacobs talks with Shaun Meredith, CTO and co-founder of Omnic AI, a leading company in eSports player performance, data, and analytics. They explore how Omnic AI uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to help gamers improve their skills through their platform, Omnic Forge. The discussion covers the origins of Omnic AI, its technological infrastructure, the challenges and advantages of starting before the big LLMs, and the different needs of casual vs. professional gamers. Shaun shares insights into their business model, growth strategies, and the future possibilities with AI in gaming. They also discuss the potential for AI applications in other competitive sports and how emerging AI tools can aid entrepreneurs in building ambitious companies while maintaining flexibility and control. 00:00 Introduction to The Next Next 02:26 Meet Shaun Meredith and Omnic AI 03:34 The Journey of Omnic AI 06:27 AI in eSports: Challenges and Innovations 12:07 Building for Gamers: Insights and Strategies 21:01 User Engagement and Feedback 29:55 Technical Aspects and Future Directions 32:01 Mobile Gaming and AI Integration 32:35 Challenges in Computer Vision and Differentiation 34:13 Innovations in AI for Gaming 37:05 Funding and Growth Strategies 39:56 Market Dynamics and Competition 45:25 Future Prospects and Expansion 58:04 User Engagement and Awareness 59:33 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

Harnessing AI in Design: A Journey with Ben Blumenrose from Designer Fund In this episode of 'The Next Next,' host Jason Jacobs interviews Ben Blumenrose, co-founder and managing partner at Designer Fund. They explore how AI is revolutionizing design and shortening the product development cycle. Ben shares his journey from design lead at Facebook to investing in early-stage tech companies focusing on health, sustainability, and prosperity. He discusses the evolution of design tools, the impact of AI on entry-level design jobs, and the importance of speed and quality in product development. The conversation also delves into the convergence of engineering, design, and product management roles and the importance of fostering more design founders in the AI age. Tune in for insightful discussions on building ambitious companies, leveraging AI tools, and the future of design. 00:00 Introduction to Ben Blumenrose and Designer Fund 00:42 The Evolution of Design and AI's Impact 01:16 The Next Next: A Learning Journey 01:56 Ben Blumenrose's Background and Career 03:21 AI's Role in Modern Design 06:19 The Changing Landscape of Design Education 26:10 The Rise of Design Founders 31:12 The Rise of Design in Startups 31:31 Challenges Faced by Designer Founders 31:49 The Impact of Design on Company Success 32:42 Convincing Investors About Design 34:34 The Role of Designers in AI 38:05 The Future of Product Development 41:27 The Evolution of Design and Engineering Roles 43:57 New Tools and Processes in Design 47:54 Building Software Faster Than Searching 51:23 Implications for Venture Capital 57:42 Leveraging Tools at Designer Fund 59:32 Encouragement for Designers and Tinkerers 01:02:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

Revolutionizing Warehouse Automation with Jon Miller Schwartz of Ultra In this episode of The Next Next, host Jason Jacobs welcomes Jon Miller Schwartz, co-founder and CEO of Ultra. Ultra is pioneering the development and deployment of general-purpose robots aimed at transforming American warehouses. Jon discusses Ultra's mission, the importance of adaptable robots versus traditional static systems, and the role of AI in making these advancements possible. He outlines Ultra's unique technology, the challenges they've faced in the robotics industry, and their strategic focus on the e-commerce logistics space. The conversation also delves into the benefits of these robots for customers, the current state and future of robotics, and the importance of data in improving robotic capabilities. Jon shares insights about Ultra's rapid growth, their operational strategies, and the immense potential for robotics in various industries. 00:00 Introduction to The Next Next 02:01 Meet Jon Miller Schwartz: Ultra's Mission and Background 02:43 The Evolution of Robotics and AI 05:24 Jon's Journey: From 3D Printing to Robotics 07:30 Challenges and Innovations in Robotics 14:51 Focusing on Logistics: Ultra's Strategic Direction 20:07 Building and Deploying Robots: Ultra's Progress 22:34 Targeting the Logistics Industry: Ultra's Customers 26:22 Augmentation Strategy and Industry Growth 26:50 Robots in Fulfillment and Labor Optimization 28:03 Robot Performance vs. Human Packer 29:29 Cost Efficiency and Utilization of Robots 30:16 Impact on Human Workers and Job Shifts 32:31 Challenges in Robotics and Future Prospects 34:59 Focus on E-commerce Fulfillment 36:24 Competition and Defensibility in Robotics 37:42 Data Collection and Model Training 44:13 Technological and Societal Readiness 48:55 Future Vision and Company Goals 50:50 Hiring and Collaboration Opportunities 51:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

Transforming Business Operations with AI: A Conversation with Chris Olson, CEO of Mach 1 In this episode of The Next Next, host Jason Jacobs converses with Chris Olson, CEO of Mach 1. Chris discusses Mach 1's mission to transform businesses by integrating AI agents into their operations. Originating as a spin-out from traceVision, Mach 1 leverages AI to automate tasks and significantly reduce operational costs. The conversation delves into Chris's journey from Trace sports to launching Mach 1, exploring the integration of AI in sales, customer support, and overall business efficiencies. They also discuss the broader implications of AI adoption in business, the challenges, cultural shifts, and future opportunities. 00:00 Introduction to Chris Olson and Mach 1 00:14 The Origin Story of Mach 1 00:36 Chris Olson's Role at Trace 01:47 The Spin-Out to Mach 1 01:57 Overview of the Episode 02:23 Host Introduction and Show Purpose 03:59 Chris Olson's Background and Venture Capital Experience 04:24 Trace's Early AI Innovations 05:13 Transition to Youth Sports 08:16 Joining Trace Full-Time 13:04 Trace's Go-To-Market Strategy 17:14 Growth and Expansion of Trace 20:59 Leveraging AI for Operational Efficiency 26:57 Building In-House AI Tools 33:17 Scaling Down with AI Agents 36:15 Employee Satisfaction and Cultural Lessons 36:35 Managing Internal Dynamics with AI 37:06 Trace's Business Model and AI Integration 38:50 Communicating AI Changes to Employees 40:01 Challenges and Downsides of AI Transition 41:42 Broader Applications of AI Beyond Trace 43:31 Structuring the Spin-Out 47:47 Early Days of Mach One 49:52 Future of SaaS and AI Integration 57:18 Managing AI in Business Operations 01:05:57 Education and Support for AI Transition 01:07:45 Conclusion and Contact Information Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

Leveraging AI in Sports with Jason Syversen of SportsVisio In this episode of The Next Next, host Jason Jacobs interviews Jason Syversen, founder and CEO of SportsVisio, a company that uses AI to automate basketball statistics and video highlights. They delve into Jason Syversen's entrepreneurial journey, including his previous success in cybersecurity and his unexpected return to the startup scene. The discussion covers Sports Visio's inception, product development, customer engagement, market strategy, and the challenges of integrating advanced AI in sports analytics. Jason Syversen also shares insights into balancing entrepreneurial endeavors with family life and the importance of using business as a vehicle for societal good. 00:00 Introduction to Jason Syversen and SportsVisio 01:19 Jason's Entrepreneurial Journey 04:56 Deep Dive into SportsVisio 06:43 Balancing Family and Entrepreneurship 18:30 The Genesis of SportsVisio 29:41 Building the Team and Product Development 31:55 Lessons Learned and Future Plans 36:14 Mobile Processing vs. Cloud Processing in Sports Tech 36:38 Challenges of Multi-Object Tracking in Basketball 38:44 Edge Processing: Current Limitations and Future Potential 41:42 Human in the Loop: Balancing Cost and Accuracy 44:42 Expanding to New Sports and Markets 45:59 Leveraging AI in Sports: Custom vs. LLM Solutions 54:10 Scaling SportsVisio: Goals and Strategies 01:09:35 Entrepreneurship for Societal Good 01:13:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

The Future of Product Management in the AI Era with Jeremy Crane In this episode of The Next Next, host Jason Jacobs welcomes Jeremy Crane, Head of Product at Ankored, who shares his extensive experience as a product leader at various companies including Jasper, the Wanderlust Group, and HubSpot. They delve into topics such as the evolving role of product management in the era of AI, how AI tools are transforming team dynamics, and the balance between traditional processes and emerging technologies. Jeremy also discusses how product leaders can navigate the accelerating pace of technological advancement and leverage AI to stay competitive. This episode is a deep dive into the future of product development and the essential skills needed to thrive in an AI-first world. 00:00 Introduction to Jeremy Crane 00:40 Why Jeremy Crane? 01:18 Welcome to The Next Next 02:07 Catching Up with Jeremy 02:51 Jeremy's AI Journey 04:35 The Changing Role of Product Management 09:56 Product Development Processes 14:58 Balancing Process and Flexibility 18:19 Customer Feedback and Innovation 21:01 Future of Product Leadership 24:32 Unlocking the Value of Secure Data 26:53 Building Customer Intuition 29:37 Navigating Rapid Technological Change 33:38 AI-First Companies: Buzzword or Reality? 39:49 The Future of Software Engineering 42:38 Implications of Easier Software Development 45:17 Advice for Product Leaders Embracing AI 47:10 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

Exploring AI's Frontier with Yohei Nakajima In this episode of The Next Next, host Jason Jacobs is joined by Yohei Nakajima, a venture capitalist, innovator, and artist. Yohei, known for his work with Untapped Capital and the creation of BabyAGI, discusses his latest endeavor, The Agent Fund, focused on AI agents. The conversation delves into Yohei's multifaceted career, from his artistic projects like PixelBeasts to his AI-centric investments and automation efforts. They explore the rapid advancements in AI, the societal impact, and the evolving landscape of venture capital. Yohei shares insights into his investment strategy, the future of AI-native applications, and his unique approach to parenting in a tech-driven world. 00:00 Introduction to Yohei Nakajima 00:26 Yohei's Multifaceted Career 01:23 The Next Next: A Learning Journey 02:07 Starting the Conversation with Yohei 03:25 Yohei's Investment Philosophy 04:44 The Role of AI in Yohei's Work 07:28 The Evolution of AI and Its Impact 10:52 Challenges and Opportunities in AI 15:18 The Future of AI and Society 25:38 The Agent Fund and AI Investments 29:19 The Future of Company Growth in the Age of AI 30:14 Challenges and Opportunities for the Next Generation 33:43 Navigating Career Choices in a World of AI 36:02 AI's Role in Youth Development and Education 36:43 Investing in AI: Strategies and Insights 47:52 Balancing Structure and Flexibility in Daily Life 49:56 Final Thoughts and Future Outlook Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

Building SwingVision: An AI-Powered Revolution in Racket Sports In this episode of The Next Next, host Jason Jacobs interviews Swupnil Sahai, co-founder and CEO of SwingVision, an AI-driven app for tennis and racket sport performance tracking. Swupnil shares his journey from working on Tesla's autopilot team to founding SwingVision, blending his passion for tennis with his expertise in AI. The app leverages a single iPhone or iPad to provide amateur players with pro-level analytics, including real-time stats, automatic line calling, and video highlights. They discuss the inception of SwingVision, early challenges, data collection strategies, and the importance of user feedback in refining the technology. Swupnil also talks about the company's go-to-market strategy, funding journey, and future aspirations, including potential expansion into other sports and improving infrastructure at sports facilities. The conversation highlights the merging paths of entrepreneurship and AI in sports tech, providing valuable insights for aspiring founders. 00:00 Introduction to The Next Next 00:33 Meet Swupnil Sahai: From Tesla to SwingVision 01:37 SwingVision: Revolutionizing Tennis Analytics 04:16 The Reality of Entrepreneurship 06:49 Swupnil's Journey: From Academia to Tesla 11:15 Building SwingVision: The Early Days 14:47 Training AI Models for Tennis 19:40 Gathering Data and Scaling Up 22:07 Launching the MVP and Iterating 23:27 Advice for Aspiring AI Entrepreneurs 25:15 Customer Feedback and Data Utilization 26:56 Fundraising Journey and Initial Challenges 29:01 Go-to-Market Strategy and Organic Growth 31:23 Adapting to AI Advancements 36:03 Freemium Model and Product Experiments 41:23 Future Vision and Expansion Plans 49:01 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Entrepreneurs Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

Navigating Startups, AI, and Family Life with Andrew Lau of Jellyfish In this episode of The Next Next, host Jason Jacobs interviews Andrew Lau, co-founder and CEO of Jellyfish. Jellyfish is a Boston-based software company that provides engineering leaders with data-driven insights to align their team's work with broader business objectives. Andrew discusses the founding and growth of Jellyfish, including their successful Series C round led by Accel in early 2022. The conversation covers the challenges of balancing startup growth with family life, the transitional impact of AI on engineering productivity, and the future of AI in business operations. Andrew shares insights on navigating market changes, the importance of strategic decision-making, and the value of building a supportive team culture. 00:00 Introduction to The Next Next with Andrew Lau 00:17 Meet Andrew Lau: Co-Founder and CEO of Jellyfish 00:35 Jellyfish's Mission and Venture Success 01:03 Andrew's Perspective on AI and Business 01:58 Introduction to The Next Next: A Learning Journey 02:38 Reconnecting with Andrew Lau 03:38 The Early Days of Runkeeper and Jellyfish 04:22 Building Jellyfish: Challenges and Successes 06:58 Balancing Family and Startup Life 09:05 Navigating Business Phases and Trade-offs 21:58 The Impact of COVID-19 on Jellyfish 25:14 Focusing on Engineering Leaders 26:18 Shifting to Larger Companies 26:29 Mid-Market Sales Strategy 29:38 Adapting to AI in Customer Operations 36:48 Internal Use of AI Tools 37:01 Future of Teams and AI Integration 40:13 Disruption and Market Adaptation 41:06 Reflections on Startup Evolution 45:23 Jellyfish's Future Vision 47:33 Closing Remarks and Contact Information Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

Exploring AI-Driven Ventures with Hadley Harris of Eniac Ventures In this episode of The Next Next, Jason Jacobs hosts Hadley Harris, co-founder and general partner at Eniac Ventures. Since its inception in 2010, Eniac Ventures has made significant investments in AI, data, developer tools, SaaS, and healthcare. The discussion delves into the evolution of Eniac Ventures, from its early days focusing solely on mobile-first companies to becoming a pioneer in AI-first investments. Harris shares insights on the AI landscape, the timing of investments, the impact of AI on various sectors, and societal implications. Additionally, the episode explores the practical aspects of venture capital, including the use of AI in internal operations and the emerging trends in secondary markets. Jacobs also pitches an idea around using AI in the sports coaching and analysis space, seeking Harris's feedback. Tune in for an engaging conversation about navigating and harnessing the potential of AI in venture capital and startups. 00:00 Introduction to Hadley Harris and Eniac Ventures 00:55 Hadley's Journey and Eniac's Evolution 01:16 The Changing Landscape of Venture Capital 01:38 Deep Dive into AI and Its Implications 04:12 Hadley's Early Career and AI Involvement 05:37 The Impact of AI on Various Industries 09:18 Investment Strategies and Timing 12:14 Challenges and Opportunities in AI 15:14 Future of AI and Venture Capital 24:25 Bootstrapping vs. Hyperscale in the AI Era 29:37 Transition from Mobile to AI 30:13 The Evolution of AI in Business 32:03 AI's Role in Modern Companies 33:38 Balancing AI and Human Expertise 38:11 Ethical Considerations in Venture Capital 42:24 The Future of Liquidity in Venture Capital 47:04 Exploring AI in Sports and Fitness 52:33 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

Navigating AI and Creativity with Gregg Spiridellis In this episode of The Next Next, host Jason Jacobs interviews Gregg Spiridellis, co-founder of JibJab and StoryBots. Gregg shares his journey from investment banking to digital entertainment, discussing the evolution of his creative process and the impact of new technologies. He highlights how he and his brother are using AI to revolutionize content creation, including their latest endeavor to build a feature-length animated film based on Parry Grip's music. Gregg also touches on the challenges and strategies in navigating Hollywood's power dynamics and the significance of balancing career ambitions with family life. 00:00 Introduction to Gregg Spiridellis 00:05 The Journey from Investment Banking to JibJab 00:51 StoryBots and Netflix Success 01:10 New Ventures with Parry Grip 01:46 Exploring AI in Creative Processes 02:52 Introduction to The Next Next 04:48 Gregg's Current Projects 05:11 Building a Family Franchise 08:00 The Evolution of Creative Formats 11:58 Challenges and Iterations in Creativity 13:33 The Impact of Technology on Media 21:24 Failed Ventures and Lessons Learned 25:31 Collaborating with Parry Grip 27:19 Exploring Creative Origins 27:46 Building a Business Around Animation 28:44 Involving Gatekeepers and Developing Content 30:44 The Pixar Playbook and Technological Advances 34:06 Phases of Production and Financing 36:30 Embracing AI in Creative Processes 44:26 Industry Disruption and Future Implications 45:08 Philosophical Reflections on Legacy and Innovation 49:30 Final Thoughts and Future Plans 55:55 Conclusion and Parting Words Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

Redefining Venture Capital for the Creator Economy with Megan Lightcap of Slow Ventures In this episode of The Next Next, host Jason Jacobs interviews Megan Lightcap, a partner at Slow Ventures and the manager of their newly launched Creator Fund. The fund is a pioneering venture capital initiative aimed at backing creator entrepreneurs with a $60 million-plus seed fund. Megan talks about her journey into venture capital, Slow Ventures' distinctive approach, and the inception and growth of the Creator Fund. The discussion covers Slow Ventures' philosophy, the evolving landscape of consumer behavior, and the unique challenges and strategies involved in investing in creators versus traditional startups. Megan also shares insights into the sourcing and evaluation process, the importance of community engagement, and the future potential of creator-led brands. The episode delves into the operational and strategic differences between Slow's core seed investments and the Creator Fund, while highlighting the value of authenticity and passion in the creator economy. 00:00 Introduction to Megan Lightcap and Slow Ventures 00:41 The Rise of Creator Entrepreneurs 04:25 Overview of Slow Ventures and Its Funds 06:15 The Creator Fund: Concept and Execution 19:23 Early Experimentation and Learnings 27:25 Identifying the Right Creator Fit 27:59 Evaluating Founders and Teams 29:13 Charisma and Obsession in Founders 31:12 Team Dynamics and Screening Processes 32:49 Equity Stakes and Profit Sharing 34:34 Long-Term Partnerships and Value Creation 36:06 Expanding Beyond Creators 37:25 Networking and Learning Among Creators 40:25 Sourcing and Evaluating Future Stars 44:39 Platform Preferences and Audience Engagement 46:43 The Future of Creator Development 50:31 Final Thoughts and Parting Words Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

Leveraging AI for Personalized Medicine with Sunita Mohanty of Vibrant Practice In this episode of The Next Next, host Jason Jacobs interviews Sunita Mohanty, co-founder and CEO of Vibrant Practice, a healthcare startup focusing on personalized medicine. Sunita shares her journey from being a product leader at Meta to founding Vibrant Practice after facing health challenges that led her to functional medicine. The discussion covers the integration of AI into Vibrant Practice's EHR and practice management platform, addressing issues like doctor burnout and operational inefficiencies. Sunita also discusses the mindset shift required in the healthcare industry, the balance of using AI and human touch in care, and the company's journey from building manually to leveraging AI-driven automation. The conversation touches on the company's SaaS business model, the importance of providing better patient care, and future scaling plans while maintaining a lean, technology-based team. 00:00 Introduction to Today's Episode 00:01 Meet Sunita Mohanty: From Meta to Vibrant Practice 00:45 The Birth of Vibrant Practice 01:24 The Role of AI in Healthcare 01:48 Welcome to The Next Next 03:42 Sunita's Journey to Functional Medicine 06:47 Challenges and Opportunities in Personalized Medicine 08:45 Building Vibrant Practice: The Early Days 12:14 The Shift Towards Functional and Integrative Medicine 17:26 The Future of Healthcare: Technology and Mindset Shifts 20:40 Navigating the Healthcare System: Insurance and Cash-Based Models 24:10 Vibrant Practice: The All-in-One Platform 28:07 Integrating Point Solutions for Clinicians 29:32 AI in Clinical Operations 32:35 Business Model and Market Strategy 34:44 Balancing AI and Human Touch 43:06 Scaling the Team with AI 46:10 Future of AI in Startups and Venture Capital 51:17 Opportunities in Underserved Markets 55:09 Closing Thoughts and Call to Action Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

Democratizing Programming: The Vision of Val Town with Steve Krouse In this episode of 'The Next Next,' host Jason Jacobs interviews Steve Krouse, founder of Val Town, a platform designed to make programming more accessible and collaborative through web-based tools. Steve talks about the challenges of traditional code collaboration, the integration of AI tools into Val Town, and their growth strategy focused on interoperability. He emphasizes the potential long-term impact of Val Town on democratizing programming for both professional developers and newcomers. The conversation also explores the evolution of AI in coding, the importance of accessible programming, and fostering better collaboration within the tech community. Additionally, Steve shares insights into the medium- to long-term vision of Val Town, the importance of creating web-native programmable interfaces, and the company's approach to leveraging AI without directly competing in AI code generation. The episode offers a deep dive into the future of collaborative programming and how Val Town aims to shape it. 00:00 Introduction to Steve Krouse and Val Town 01:02 Host Introduction and Show's Purpose 01:52 Steve's Journey and Initial Interaction with Val Town 03:35 Steve's Background and Climate Interest 07:06 Genesis of Val Town 15:13 Challenges in Code Collaboration 21:34 Val Town's Vision and Future 36:46 Google Docs for Production Code 37:42 Enhancing GitHub Collaboration 39:38 AI's Role in Val Town 41:18 Shifting AI Strategy 44:43 Integration and Openness 49:09 Growth and User Engagement 58:17 The Future of Programming and AI 01:04:57 Community and Collaboration 01:09:01 Val Town's Vision and Goals 01:10:08 Conclusion and Contact Information Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

Balancing Innovation and Community: Reagan Bonlie on Nudge Money In this episode of The Next Next, Jason Jacobs speaks with Reagan Bonlie, co-founder and CEO of Nudge Money. They discuss how Nudge Money, a financial wellness platform, uses AI to help credit unions better understand and serve their members, particularly focusing on community development and personalized financial advice. Reagan shares insights from his extensive background at JPMorgan Chase and the journey of pivoting Nudge Money's business model. They also delve into the challenges and opportunities in integrating AI in the conservative and highly regulated credit union sector, emphasizing that the technology must add real value without disrupting the human-centric mission of credit unions. 00:00 Introduction to Reagan Bonlie and Nudge Money 00:26 The Role of AI in Nudge Money 00:52 Challenges and Opportunities with Credit Unions 01:46 Reagan's Passion for Community Development 02:54 Introduction to The Next Next Show 03:34 Reagan's Journey from JPMorgan to Nudge Money 04:17 Nudge Money's Mission and Approach 04:58 Reagan's Entrepreneurial Background 05:47 The Genesis of Nudge Money 08:23 Challenges in the Financial Wellness Space 09:44 Pivoting to Work with Credit Unions 13:07 Understanding Credit Union Needs 17:43 Building and Iterating the Product 25:03 Leveraging AI in Product Development 27:12 Navigating Industry Challenges and Opportunities 28:56 Balancing Compliance and Innovation 30:25 Leveraging AI for Efficiency 32:20 Market Perceptions and Realities 36:42 Strategic Growth and Community Impact 42:11 Funding and Capitalization Strategies 45:28 Long-Term Vision and Success Metrics 49:31 Final Thoughts and Contact Information Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

Exploring the Intersection of AI and Creation with Jay Singh of Casper Studios In this episode of The Next Next, host Jason Jacobs sits down with Jay Singh, co-founder and CEO of Casper Studios, a New York-based AI product studio. Jay shares his journey from working at LinkedIn to founding Casper Studios, which focuses on designing and developing custom AI solutions for startups and creators. They discuss the compelling need for AI tools in product development, the creative processes behind building AI solutions, and the importance of understanding one's target audience. Jay elaborates on his strategic focus on creators with large followings, his excitement about new AI functionalities like multimodal models, and how he plans to balance product development with running an agency. This conversation dives deep into how AI is redefining the agency world and the creative economy. 00:00 Introduction to Jay Singh and Casper Studios 00:50 Founding Story and Early Days of Casper Studios 03:58 Jay's Background and Journey to AI 05:47 First AI Product and Transition to Full-Time 06:26 Casper Studios' Business Model and Client Focus 14:35 Building AI Products for Creators 21:51 AI Tools and Team Dynamics 26:36 Common Pitfalls for Creators 26:53 Understanding Your Audience 28:19 AI's Impact on Creativity and Critical Thinking 32:24 The Future of Agencies in the AI Era 34:05 Balancing Product Development and Agency Work 39:22 Leveraging AI for Business Growth 44:03 Exploring Funding and Business Models 48:14 Final Thoughts and Farewell Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

From Startup Struggles to AI-Driven Success: Uday Chandra & Singular's Adaptive Business Engine In this episode of The Next Next, host Jason Jacobs interviews Uday Chandra, co-founder of Singular, an innovative startup focused on building an adaptive business operating engine using AI. Introduced by Mady Mantha from Happypillar, Chandra shares his journey from a failed fintech startup to successfully bootstrapping Singular with his co-founder. Singular aims to consolidate various SaaS tools into a single unified system, leveraging open-source technologies and AI-driven agents for coding and business rule integration. Despite being only three months old, Singular has achieved $45,000 in monthly recurring revenue (MRR) from five customers, with a vision of scaling further without outside funding. The episode delves into the challenges of integrating AI, customer acquisition strategies, and future ambitions for the company. 00:00 Introduction to Uday Chandra and Singular 00:31 Uday's Journey: From Traditional Startup to AI-Driven Success 01:13 Singular's Innovative Approach and Early Success 02:09 The Vision Behind Singular: Consolidating SaaS Tools 02:41 Meet the Host: Jason Jacobs and The Next Next 03:28 Uday's Background and the Birth of Singular 04:02 Challenges and Learnings from UKey 08:38 Identifying the Problem: SaaS Fatigue 10:10 Building Singular: Customer Development and Market Research 15:01 Targeting the Right Market Segments 16:42 Developing Singular's Features and Functionality 19:53 Leveraging AI for Software Development 24:24 Pricing Model and Customization 27:38 The Future of SaaS and AI Integration 36:53 Opinionated Approach to Software Development 38:49 Initial Customer Acquisition Strategies 39:54 Pitching to Mid Enterprises 40:24 Overcoming Customer Skepticism 41:41 Navigating Tool Integration Challenges 45:25 Leveraging AI for Business Optimization 50:19 Scaling with a Small Team 01:00:31 Open Source and AI Innovations 01:08:07 Building a Collaborative Community 01:11:46 Final Thoughts and Future Outlook Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

Harnessing AI to Revolutionize Lending: A Conversation with Scott Weller of EnFi In this episode of The Next Next, host Jason Jacobs sits down with Scott Weller, co-founder and CTO of EnFi, an AI-powered platform aimed at enhancing the lending process. Scott shares insights into how EnFi emerged amid the financial crises of Silicon Valley Bank and First Republic Bank, revealing the fragility of the financial system. The discussion delves into Scott's journey as a serial entrepreneur, the role of AI in building EnFi, and the innovative way EnFi collaborates with design partners instead of traditional customers. Scott highlights the challenges and opportunities of integrating AI in lending, the process of prototyping, and the importance of staying on the cutting edge of technology. They also explore the future of AI in various sectors, the implications for venture funding, and the potential for community-driven knowledge sharing to accelerate AI development. This episode is packed with insights on how emerging AI tools can aid in building ambitious companies while maintaining a balance with personal life. 00:00 Introduction to Scott Weller and EnFi 00:13 The Genesis of EnFi 00:56 Scott Weller's Entrepreneurial Journey 01:13 AI's Role in EnFi's Development 01:30 Challenges and Innovations in Lending 02:18 The Next Next: A Learning Journey 02:58 Catching Up with Scott Weller 04:38 Scott's Background and Early Influences 06:35 The Birth of EnFi 10:04 Prototyping and AI Integration 16:53 Design Partners and Market Fit 29:51 Building the Team and Scaling 40:02 Fundraising and Future Prospects 44:39 The Impact of Raising Capital on Business Trajectory 44:59 Navigating Capital Light vs. Capital Heavy Strategies 46:09 Understanding Market Demand and User Access 47:03 Challenges in Different AI Application Markets 48:01 Balancing R&D and Market Entry 49:57 Personal Reflections on Entrepreneurship 56:39 The Role of Agents in Software Development 59:31 Implications of AI on Hiring and Industry 01:01:48 The Future of Venture Capital in a Changing Market 01:07:11 Building a Collaborative Community for AI Development 01:22:20 Final Thoughts and Reflections Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

Building AI-Powered 3D Creativity Tools with Bharat Vasan In this episode of The Next Next, host Jason Jacobs welcomes Bharat Vasan, co-founder of Intangible, to discuss their development of a no-code 3D creation tool targeting filmmakers, game designers, and creative professionals. Intangible recently raised a $4 million seed round to simplify 3D content creation using AI. Bharat talks about his journey, including co-founding Basis Technologies and working with notable names like Charles Migos from Apple and Unity. They explore the challenges and opportunities in the film and games industries, the potential of AI, building a startup team, and maintaining work-life balance as an entrepreneur. Bharat and Jason also reminisce about their long history and shared experiences in the startup world. 00:00 Introduction to Bharat Vasan and Intangible 00:52 Bharat's Entrepreneurial Journey 00:58 Discussion on Founding Companies 01:26 State of the Film and Games Industries 01:57 Introduction to The Next Next 02:37 Reconnecting with Bharat 03:34 Bharat's Background and Journey to the US 05:11 Cultural Shocks and Career Beginnings 05:38 Bharat's Experience in Silicon Valley 08:54 The Importance of Co-founders 12:40 Key Factors in Starting a Company 17:15 Meeting Co-founder Charles Migos 19:48 Challenges in the Film and Games Industries 23:14 The Vision for Intangible 28:47 AI Transforms Creative Processes 29:35 The Role of Agents in AI 31:17 Simplifying 3D Creative Tools 33:48 AI's Impact on Production and Creativity 37:40 The Future of AI in Creative Industries 43:52 Building Intangible AI 53:22 The Startup Grind and Co-Founder Dynamics 57:37 Closing Thoughts and Future Outlook Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

Building HYBRD: Leveraging AI in Fitness App Development In this episode of The Next Next, host Jason Jacobs chats with Matthew Ruiters and Ben Katz, co-founders of HYBRD, an innovative fitness tracking app for hybrid athletes. They discuss the unique approach of using AI for coding and development, their journey through Y Combinator, and the challenges and successes faced along the way. Topics include utilizing AI tools to empower non-technical founders, transitioning from a side project to a full-fledged company, and the future of fitness app development and marketing with AI. The conversation also touches on the implications of evolving AI tools for startup efficiency, competition, and employment. 00:00 Introduction to The Next Next 02:11 Meet the Guests: Ruiters and Ben 03:03 What is HYBRD? 04:10 The Origin Story of HYBRD 09:37 Building the Prototype and Joining YC 15:36 Leveraging AI for Development 19:33 The Role of AI in Team Efficiency 23:11 AI-Driven Workflow Enhancements 24:04 The Role of Technical Founders 25:13 Balancing Hustler and Hacker Dynamics 25:46 Drawbacks and Challenges of AI Tools 27:02 AI's Impact on Hiring and Competition 29:29 Diving into AI Tools: Tips and Experiences 35:47 Application-Only Launch Strategy 37:24 Future Plans and Funding 40:13 Marketing and Distribution Strategies 43:28 Final Thoughts and Parting Words Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

Fostering AI Adoption: A Deep Dive with Melodi's Sara Remsen In this episode of The Next Next, host Jason Jacobs talks with Sara Remsen, CEO and co-founder of Melodi, a startup helping AI companies improve their models with human feedback. They discuss Melodi's journey, AI's current transformative state, and its potential opportunities and hype. The conversation covers the rise of AI agents, the tools available for building them, the pros and cons of those tools, and the challenges companies face in developing in-house agents. Sara explains Melodi's role in measuring digital resolution rates for AI-powered chatbots, detailing their approach to improving customer interaction insights. The discussion also touches on Melodi's origin story and developmental journey, the impact of generative AI on traditional product feedback methods, and the future of AI integration in businesses. Towards the end, Sara shares practical advice for founders and established companies on incorporating AI thoughtfully and strategically. 00:00 Introduction to Sara Remsen and Melodi 00:20 Overview of the Episode's Topics 01:24 Introduction to The Next Next Show 02:03 Sara Remsen Joins the Conversation 02:09 Challenges in Podcast Recording 02:29 Sara's Background and Connection with Jason 03:31 Founding Melodi and Its Mission 03:40 Understanding Melodi's Functionality 04:38 The Origin Story of Melodi 08:05 Exploring RAG Systems 14:52 Challenges and Opportunities with AI Agents 24:53 The Future of AI and Digital Workforces 27:07 Prioritizing Tool Sets and Tasks 27:23 Melodi's Integration and Functionality 28:22 Task Agnosticism and Monitoring 28:46 Criteria for Melodi's Market Fit 29:12 AI Maturity and Company Size 29:31 Melodi's Ideal Customer Profile 36:31 Challenges in the AI Market 37:52 Future of Software and AI 43:56 Melodi's Sales and Customer Acquisition 45:42 Incorporating AI in Operations 49:16 Advice for Founders and Companies 52:56 Melodi's Future Plans 54:23 Creative Uses of AI in Daily Life 55:09 Conclusion and Farewell Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

Shawn Harris on Revolutionizing Project Management with AI In this episode of The Next Next, host Jason Jacobs interviews Shawn Harris, co-founder and CEO of Coworked. Shawn shares how Coworked is transforming project management by leveraging AI, specifically with their flagship product, Harmony. The discussion delves into Coworked's journey from initial concept to their pivot based on market needs, leading to the development of an extensive agent-driven AI system. Shawn provides insights on the challenges and decisions involved in building their own agentic framework, the role of project managers, and the future landscape of AI in project management. The episode also touches on Shawn's perspective on the evolving role of founders and invites listeners, especially PMO leaders, to engage with Coworked's innovative solutions. 00:00 Introduction to The Next Next 00:29 The Birth of Coworked and Harmony 01:47 Challenges in Project Management 03:04 Meet Shawn Harris 04:45 Understanding Harmony's Capabilities 06:11 The Founding Story of Coworked 12:38 Building the Agentic Framework 16:07 Optimizing Project Management 17:50 Technical Challenges and Solutions 19:59 DIY vs. Off-the-Shelf Solutions 23:26 Ensuring Reliability and Accuracy 28:56 Overcoming Challenges in AI Development 30:43 The Role of AI in Development and Resources 31:41 Team Structure and AI Integration 33:58 Human Involvement in AI Projects 40:25 Market Penetration and Customer Engagement 42:20 AI's Impact on Project Management 48:33 Defensibility and Competition in AI 56:16 Future of AI in Business and Entrepreneurship 57:14 Final Thoughts and Contact Information Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

Exploring AI Integration in Product Management with Paul Heayn In this episode of The Next Next, host Jason Jacobs welcomes Paul Heayn, a product manager at Peapod Digital Labs, who has been integrating AI into his work. The conversation covers Paul's professional background, his journey with AI, and his hands-on experience with tools like ChatGPT and N8N. They discuss the challenges and potential of automating workflows, the future impact of AI on roles within startups, and how to effectively integrate AI into existing processes. The episode serves as a practical guide for anyone looking to incorporate AI tools into their professional workflows. 00:00 Introduction to Today's Episode 02:22 Paul Heayn's Background and AI Journey 03:32 Exploring AI Tools and Applications 07:48 Challenges and Learnings in AI Implementation 08:38 Future Prospects and Personal Reflections 17:18 Navigating AI Tools and Resources 21:02 Debating the Best Approach to Learning AI 27:16 The Programming Genie Concept 27:44 Challenges in Character Development 28:22 Automation in Various Professions 28:52 Building Personal Software Solutions 30:19 Future of Vendor-Sold Software 31:24 AI's Impact on Job Roles 34:56 Choosing the Right AI Tools 42:16 Practical Coding Tools and Automation 46:11 Final Thoughts and Future Plans Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

Navigating Ambition, Family, and AI with Brian Balfour of Reforge In this episode of The Next Next, host Jason Jacobs speaks with Brian Balfour, founder and CEO of Reforge. The episode covers Brian’s entrepreneurial journey, including his time at Viximo and HubSpot, and the challenges and strategies he employed in building Reforge since 2016. Brian shares insights on balancing being a venture-backed founder and a dad, embracing and managing ambition healthily, and the transformative impact of AI on product teams. The conversation delves into Reforge’s pivot to incorporating AI, its acquisition of Monterey.ai, and the future implications of AI on startup building and venture capital. Jason and Brian also discuss the evolving landscape of AI tools and the importance of being on the front lines of technology adoption. 00:00 Introduction to Brian Balfour 00:31 Brian's Early Ventures and Reforge 00:46 Balancing Ambition and Family 00:56 The Role of AI in Reforge 02:03 The Next Next: A Learning Journey 02:44 Brian's Entrepreneurial Journey 05:29 The Impact of Family on Ambition 06:48 Navigating Challenges and Opportunities 22:59 AI's Disruption in Education and Product Teams 32:08 Transitioning to AI Native Product Teams 32:42 Building vs. Acquiring AI Products 33:24 Utilizing AI in Training and Content Creation 38:31 Impact of AI on Team Structure and Efficiency 41:24 Future of Startups and AI 47:53 Venture Capital and Startup Culture 50:17 Navigating AI Tools and Automation 52:03 Advice and Future Plans 01:02:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

AI and Parenting: Revolutionizing Child Behavioral Therapy with Mady Mantha In this episode of The Next Next, host Jason Jacobs interviews Mady Mantha, co-founder and CTO of Happypillar, a digital therapeutic application that delivers evidence-based behavioral interventions to families using AI. Mady shares her extensive background in product and machine learning engineering and details her journey from developing conversational AI at Sirius and Walmart to building Happypillar. They discuss how Happypillar uses AI to make parenting easier by providing scaled therapeutic support, the roles of human expertise in AI development, the evolving AI landscape, and the intersection of AI with startup building, funding, and human roles. The conversation also explores the implications of AI on team structures in engineering, marketing, and competitive dynamics. Mady highlights the importance of domain expertise and distribution as moats and provides insight into future expansions for Happypillar. 00:00 Introduction to Mady Mantha and Happypillar 02:41 The Role of AI in Modern Startups 04:45 Building Happypillar: The Journey and Challenges 07:35 AI's Impact on Behavioral Interventions 12:23 Iterative Development and AI Integration 21:14 AI Native Startups vs Traditional Startups 25:39 Therapist Integration in AI 26:51 Scaling Therapy Services with AI 27:32 Personalization in Therapy 29:17 AI's Impact on Internal Processes 31:39 AI in Coding and Team Dynamics 34:23 Future of Junior Engineers 36:45 Fundraising and Bootstrapping 38:34 Marketing and AI Tools 40:01 Human vs. AI in Sensitive Areas 43:04 Competitive Landscape and Moats 45:28 Open Source and Innovation 46:20 Future Plans for Happy Pillar 47:37 Call to Action and Conclusion Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

Building a Balanced Business: Mike Salguero on Scaling ButcherBox Thoughtfully In this episode of The Next Next, host Jason Jacobs interviews Mike Salguero, founder and CEO of ButcherBox. They discuss Mike's journey from the failure of his first startup, CustomMade, to the success of ButcherBox, a direct-to-consumer meat delivery service that now boasts over $500 million in revenue without raising outside capital. The conversation explores the importance of maintaining a work-life balance, the challenges of scaling a business independently, and the role of AI in enhancing customer experience. Mike shares insights on how to build a company that aligns with one's lifestyle goals while addressing broader industry challenges, such as worker welfare and sustainable meat production. 00:00 Introduction to Mike Salguero and ButcherBox 01:15 Mike's Journey from CustomMade to ButcherBox 03:01 Balancing Family and Business 03:33 The Role of AI in ButcherBox 05:35 Building ButcherBox: Philosophy and Growth 07:46 Lessons from CustomMade 11:14 Launching ButcherBox 20:33 The Growth and Challenges of ButcherBox 27:38 The Power of Saying No 28:18 Balancing Personal and Professional Life 29:43 The Importance of CEO Forums 31:34 The Plate-Spinning Analogy 33:06 Golden Plates: Health, Relationships, and Kids 34:41 Navigating Financial Independence 37:24 Reviving the Founder Mindset 40:04 Empowering Your Executive Team 45:20 Challenges in the Meat Industry 50:51 The Future Vision for ButcherBox 54:07 Final Thoughts and Reflections Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

This episode of 'The Next Next' features Chris Savage, co-founder and CEO of Wistia, a video marketing and analytics platform. Host Jason Jacobs explores Chris's journey in establishing Wistia in 2006 with Brendan Schwartz, navigating its growth into a multi-million dollar business, and making the critical decision to maintain company independence by taking on debt to buy back equity. Chris shares insights on running a profitable business, handling external growth advice, and staying focused. Post-pandemic transitions to remote work, the reintroduction of equity, and the integration of AI into Wistia are also discussed. Additionally, Jason shares his idea for a potential series called 'Fogey Founders,' and Chris offers valuable advice on leveraging video content for podcasts. 00:00 Introduction to Chris Savage and Wistia 00:44 The Journey of Wistia: Early Challenges and Decisions 01:27 Personal Insights and AI Integration 01:56 Host's Personal Journey and Goals 02:32 Chris Savage Joins the Conversation 03:14 Balancing Family and Ambitious Goals 05:05 Wistia's Growth and Key Insights 07:15 Navigating Financial Decisions and Market Challenges 24:05 Reflecting on Stress and Family Dynamics 29:41 Balancing Remote Work and Team Dynamics 30:08 Navigating Remote Hiring Challenges 30:47 Adapting to Remote Work Systems 31:14 In-Person Collaboration and Planning 34:05 The Impact of AI on Business Operations 35:13 AI-Driven Product Enhancements 39:58 AI in Internal Operations 43:41 Future of Work and AI Integration 50:13 Exploring New Content Creation Strategies 55:35 Final Thoughts and Call to Action Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

In this episode of The Next Next, host Jason Jacobs interviews Sahil Lavingia, founder and CEO of Gumroad and the newly established company, Antiwork. They discuss Sahil's journey from being employee #2 at Pinterest to founding Gumroad, and now venturing into promoting flexible work arrangements and leveraging AI to automate business processes. Sahil shares his insights on the transformative impact of AI in the software industry, his approach to building and scaling companies, and his vision for the future of work. The conversation also delves into how AI is altering traditional employment structures and what this means for venture capital, enterprise software, and individual productivity. Tune in for an enriching discussion on embracing change, optimizing for efficiency, and staying adaptable in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.00:00 Introduction to Sahil Lavingia00:31 Sahil's Early Career and Gumroad's Evolution00:59 The Shift to AI and New Business Models03:58 Personal Reflections and Work-Life Balance10:00 The Impact of AI on Software Development21:04 Future of Work and AI Integration36:48 Project-Based Work and AI Efficiency40:22 AI's Superiority in Software Engineering40:59 The Efficiency of AI in Learning and Documentation42:17 Understanding Tokens and AI Context Windows44:09 The Future of AI in Software Development44:25 AI's Impact on Different Professions47:38 The Role of AI in Sales and Marketing53:37 The Evolution of Software and Open Source55:05 The Future of Venture Capital and Software01:00:01 Building Efficient Workflows with AI01:14:29 Concluding Thoughts and Future Directions Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

In this episode of The Next Next, host Jason Jacobs interviews Kayla Comalli, co-founder and CEO of Lovelace Studio. The studio is pioneering the creation of 3D worlds using their generative AI platform, Nyric, which allows users to build and explore interactive realms. The conversation delves into Kayla's diverse background in biology, marketing, and systems engineering, leading to her current venture. They discuss the challenges Lovelace Studio faces in the market, their strategies for scaling, and the transformative role of AI in game development and beyond. Kayla also shares insights on her personal journey, and how the confluence of gaming and AI is shaping the future of digital experiences. Jason reflects on how AI tools are enabling more efficient development processes, and explores how this could impact the gaming industry and beyond. 00:00 Introduction to The Next Next 00:07 Meet Kayla Comalli and Lovelace Studio 00:55 Jason Jacobs' Learning Journey 01:40 Kayla's Background and Career Shift 02:19 The Vision and Gameplay of Lovelace Studio 04:42 Kayla's Coding Journey and Robotics Experience 08:59 Combining Gaming and Coding 11:15 Building Lovelace Studio 24:32 The Future of AI in Gaming 30:16 Going to Market and Business Strategy 32:49 Leveraging AI in Development 39:15 Final Thoughts and Farewell Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

Navigating Transitions with Steve SchlafmanHosted by Jason Jacobs, this episode of The Next Next features Steve Schlafman, founder of Downshift, a professional transition coach. The discussion delves into Steve's shift from venture capital to coaching, the philosophy behind Downshift which aids executives and founders transitioning out of demanding careers, and recovering from burnout. Steve discusses the common struggles of highly ambitious professionals, the process of reconnecting with personal values, and the importance of intentional transitions. The conversation also covers the evolving nature of work, the potential of AI, and achieving a balanced life while maintaining professional excellence. 00:00 Introduction to Steve Schlafman 00:26 Steve's Journey from VC to Coach 00:43 The Concept of Downshift 01:15 Discussion on Life Transitions 01:46 Jason's Introduction and Show Purpose 03:43 Steve's Work and Personal Evolution 05:03 The Birth of Downshift 07:13 Navigating Transitions and Coaching 14:27 The Importance of Slowing Down 15:00 Client Experiences and Success Stories 18:17 Changing Work Dynamics and AI 27:46 Balancing Ambition and Happiness 31:21 Balancing Ambition and Family Life 33:20 Navigating Resentment and Creative Juices 34:25 Exploring Ambition in Personal and Professional Life 36:48 Advice for Those in Transition 40:33 Downshift Program Overview 45:36 Future Plans and Personal Values 48:49 Innovative Ideas and Closing Thoughts Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

AI Frontiers: Leveraging Technology for Founders with Rob May In the inaugural episode of The Next Next, host Jason Jacobs speaks with Rob May, a seasoned entrepreneur and AI investor with four startups and over a hundred AI investments. The discussion covers Rob's journey into AI, the evolution of AI, the implications of AI on various industries, and the challenges and opportunities it presents for startups. Rob also shares his insights on the future of expertise, the changing landscape of business funding, and the shifting paradigms in technology development. Jason grapples with how these advancements might impact his journey as a founder aiming for ambitious goals while maintaining personal and family balance. 00:00 Introduction to Rob May and the Episode 01:01 Jason Jacobs' New Show and Its Purpose 01:46 Rob May's Background and Career Journey 04:38 Rob's AI Journey and Early Ventures 07:44 Challenges and Insights in AI Development 10:52 The Future of AI and Human Expertise 12:10 Navigating the Rapidly Evolving AI Landscape 22:36 The Role of AI in Creative Fields 23:34 The Future of Creativity in the Age of AI 23:57 The Rise of Virtual Influencers 24:21 Branding in the AI Era 25:02 The Impact of AI on Media and Culture 26:16 Automation and Intimacy in Social Media 29:34 The Evolution of Talent and Earnings 31:12 Challenges for Investors in the AI Landscape 31:48 The Future of Business Moats and Defensibility 37:30 Starting Companies in the AI Age 41:21 The Role of Judgment and Experience in an AI-Driven World 44:52 Closing Thoughts and Future Outlook Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

An overview of why I started this crazy new journey, what I am hoping to achieve, the role that this show plays, and what to expect from it each week. LFG! Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).