The Lobster Talks Podcast by Lobster Capital

What if you could simulate human reactions — and know exactly how your customers, investors, or audience will respond before you act? James He is building precisely that with Artificial Societies. In this episode, we dive deep with James, YC W25 founder of Artificial Societies — a wildly ambitious startup that simulates entire groups of humans using AI personas to predict how messages spread, markets react, and products succeed (or fail). From simulating 1,000 VCs to get into YC… to replacing $20,000 market research surveys, this conversation is a masterclass in founder execution, behavioral science, and AI-first GTM strategy. What you’ll learn: • How Artificial Societies works (and how founders are really using it today) • Why traditional A/B testing and market research are broken • Product-led growth lessons from 15,000+ activated users • The surprising YC tricks James used to get into the batch • Practical ways AI can upgrade your messaging, GTM, and PMF search • The future of simulating entire economies (and why we’re not there yet) 📌 Watch now and subscribe for more smart, fast, founder-first interviews. Chapters: 00:00 Simulating Investors: The Early Days 00:27 Introducing Artificial Societies 00:48 Journey to YC and Beyond 01:06 How Artificial Societies Works 03:02 The Science Behind Social Influence 05:27 Technical Insights and Applications 17:28 James' Personal Journey 22:29 Building and Growing the Startup 24:50 Using Internal Tools for Optimization 27:38 The Evolution of A/B Testing with AI 29:41 Challenges in Market Research 33:14 AI's Role in Market Research 34:40 Balancing Customer Feedback and Product Vision 42:55 Future Predictions and AI Capabilities 47:48 Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts 🎧 Listen on the go: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1u1JyRKH8JYFjhBkvTUOAP Apple: https://apple.co/4cZ8RMm My other YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCahCIZ9KfmeK4rLosGNYpdg My other YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@GJarrosson

YC just dropped its latest Requests for Startups — and they’re not just ideas, they’re roadmaps to the future. From AI-native enterprise software to 10-person $100B companies, these signals reveal where the smartest founders (and investors) should be looking. In this episode of Lobster Talks, Laurie and I break down Y Combinator’s newest RFS — from retraining workers for the AI economy to video generation as a computing primitive. We debate the real opportunities, the traps, and how these trends could reshape the startup ecosystem. What you’ll learn: - Why YC’s RFS is one of the best ways to predict upcoming demo day winners - The massive opportunity in retraining workers for the AI economy - Why video generation is shifting from an output to a primitive - How AI-native startups could disrupt giants like Salesforce - Whether 10-person $100B companies are actually possible - The risks, politics, and second-order effects of LLMs in government Chapters: 00:00 Introduction: The Value of Customer Money 00:26 Y Combinator's Request for Startups 01:14 AI and Worker Retraining 02:30 The Future of Semiconductors and Deep Tech 04:34 AR, VR, and AI in Training 09:02 Video Generation: The Next Frontier 16:12 The First 10-Person $100 Billion Company 22:31 The Future of Small Teams and Fundraising 24:03 Challenges and Opportunities in Multi-Agent Systems 28:12 AI Native Enterprise Software 34:39 Using AI to Revolutionize Government Consulting 41:24 Conclusion and Upcoming Events 📌 Watch now and subscribe for more smart, fast, founder-first interviews. 🎧 Listen on the go: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1u1JyRKH8JYFjhBkvTUOAP Apple: https://apple.co/4cZ8RMm My other YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@GJarrosson

Video editing hasn’t changed in decades — until now. Mosaic is killing the timeline and replacing it with agent-powered automation that can take you from raw footage to polished video in record time. In this episode of Lobster Talks, I sit down with Adish Jain, co-founder of Mosaic, the YC startup rethinking how creators edit video. We talk about Mosaic’s agentic canvas approach, why timelines are becoming optional, and how AI will bring millions of new creators into the fold. You’ll learn: - Why timelines are a relic — and what replaces them - How agent-powered editing can cut 12-hour renders to seconds - The human-in-the-loop design challenge for AI video tools - How Mosaic balances speed, control, and creativity - Why fully autonomous editing is closer than you think - The contrarian bet that could reshape the editing industry 📌 Watch now and subscribe for more smart, fast, founder-first interviews. Chapters: 00:00 Reimagining Video Editing in the AI Era 00:37 Introduction to Mosaic and Its Vision 01:21 Challenges and Innovations in AI Video Editing 03:22 The Future of Autonomous Video Editing 08:18 The Inspiration Behind Mosaic 12:36 Building and Marketing Mosaic 17:43 Navigating User Expectations and Product Development 23:40 Debating the Perfection of AI 23:54 Utility of AI in Video Editing 24:48 Future of AI Agents in Video Editing 26:35 The Rise of Content Creators 27:43 Competing in a Saturated Market 30:04 Generative AI and Video Editing 33:14 Revolutionizing Video Editing with Mosaic 37:33 The Future of Video Editing 44:18 Exciting Developments at Mosaic 45:46 Conclusion and Farewell 🎧 Listen on the go: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1u1JyRKH8JYFjhBkvTUOAP Apple: https://apple.co/4cZ8RMm My other YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@GJarrosson

What if you built a tool so powerful, it became the #1 repo on GitHub—twice? That’s exactly what Daniel Farrell did with Onlook, an open-source AI-powered visual editor for code. From crashing Chrome extensions to crashing Hacker News, Daniel takes us through how he and his co-founder built momentum, community, and virality from nothing. In this fast, founder-first conversation, we cover: • How Onlook went from prototype to #1 GitHub repo • Why Hacker News beat Product Hunt for traction • The real benefits and tradeoffs of going open source • How open source GTM can win enterprise customers • What most people misunderstand about AI and design• Why taste, story, and community still matter more than code 📌 Watch now and subscribe for more smart, fast, founder-first interviews. 00:00 The Most Trending Repo in the World 00:16 Meet Daniel Farrell: Co-Founder of Onlook 00:59 The Vision Behind Onlook 01:57 Building the Prototype and Early Challenges 04:55 Finding the Perfect Co-Founder 11:57 The Open Source Journey 14:49 The Hacker News Effect 16:47 Global Impact and Community Building 19:40 The Importance of Open Source 24:31 Challenges of Maintaining a Community 25:00 Open Source Success Stories 25:21 The Super Base Playbook 26:33 Advantages of Open Source for Enterprises 33:42 Impact of AI on Design and Marketing Teams 42:25 Future Bets and Bold Predictions 48:00 Where to Find Onlook and Final Thoughts Listen on the go: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1u1JyRKH8JYFjhBkvTUOAP Apple: https://apple.co/4cZ8RMm My other YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@GJarrosson

What if launching a tech startup was as easy as filling out a form? Ben Collins, co-founder of Woz, joins Gabriel to unpack how his AI platform helps anyone — even non-technical founders — build full-stack software businesses. From betting against vertical SaaS to designing an AI cofounder you can trust, this conversation is a tactical deep dive into where startup creation is headed. 🔍 In this episode: Why Woz pivoted away from a holding company model What most AI-first code tools get totally wrong How mobile-first enables higher quality standards A unique approach to betting on future AI capability curves The real reason most AI startups are failing users 📌 Watch now and subscribe for more smart, fast, founder-first interviews. ⏱ Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Scaling and Bottlenecks 00:18 Introducing Ben Collins and Woz 01:04 The Vision Behind Woz 03:43 The Founding Story 06:06 The Shift to a Platform Approach 08:53 Navigating the Competitive Landscape 12:39 Philosophical and Strategic Insights 17:02 The Mobile-First Strategy 25:34 The Journey to Product-Market Fit 27:15 Navigating Rapid Technological Changes 32:21 The Impact of Y Combinator 35:00 AI's Role in Scaling Service Businesses 36:42 Challenges for Non-Technical Founders 39:13 Bold Predictions and Future Bets 45:02 Exciting Announcements and Closing Thoughts 🎧 Listen on the go: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1u1JyRKH8JYFjhBkvTUOAP Apple: https://apple.co/4cZ8RMm My other YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@GJarrosson

YC isn't just about AI anymore — it's quietly becoming America’s new industrial engine. In this episode, Gabriel and Laurie break down how Y Combinator is doubling down on hardtech, defense, and energy — and why this matters more than ever. From geopolitical risk to deep tech traction, we unpack how YC startups are shaping the future — and why top seed investors are scrambling to keep up. We also reveal how internal partner dynamics at YC shape which billion-dollar startups get funded. 🎙 This is your tactical, insider breakdown of what’s next for the world’s most important startup accelerator. What you’ll learn: * Why YC is going all-in on defense, energy, and hardware * How LOIs and demo day results work for hardtech startups * The “too late” moment for most seed investors trying to access YC deals * Why YC group partners matter — and how to track them * What the NextView “existential crisis” blog means for the seed market * Which partners are shaping the S25 batch behind the scenes 📌 Watch now and subscribe for more smart, fast, founder-first interviews. Chapters00:00 First Impressions and Initial Skepticism 00:36 Welcome to the Podcast 00:52 YC's New Request for Startups 01:57 YC's Hardware and Industrial Focus 07:08 The Importance of Energy and Defense 08:26 Political and Regulatory Considerations 14:27 Investing in Deep Tech and Hardware 20:15 Challenges in Seed Investing 21:25 The Impact of YC on Seed Investing 22:24 The YC Network and Its Influence 23:35 Challenges and Opportunities for Non-YC Investors 24:25 The Journey of Investing in YC 25:42 The Importance of Timing in YC Investments 29:39 Changes in YC Leadership 33:42 The Role of Group Partners in YC 37:35 Personal Experiences with YC Group Partners 39:30 Conclusion and Next Steps 🎧 Listen on the go:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1u1JyRKH8JYFjhBkvTUOAPApple: https://apple.co/4cZ8RMmMy other YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@GJarrosson

What happens when a college student builds an AI tool that goes viral overnight — and changes how thousands of students study? Summary: In this episode of Lobster Talks, Gabriel sits down with David Yu, co-founder of YouLearn — the YC-backed AI tutor that transforms PDFs, class recordings, and YouTube videos into quizzes, notes, and a personal tutor. From a dorm-room side project to a viral social growth engine, this episode is packed with tactics, conviction, and bold bets on the future of learning. You’ll learn: How YouLearn hit 10,000 users in 24 hours from a single post The exact tactics they used to blow up on Instagram and TikTok Why most AI tools in education fail — and how YouLearn avoids it The truth about retention, virality, and real product usage How David thinks about AI hallucinations and data safety What learning could look like in 2030 with Neuralink, glasses, and beyond 📌 Watch now and subscribe for more smart, fast, founder-first interviews. Chapters: 00:00 Viral Launch on Social Media 00:20 Introduction to YouLearn 00:47 Meet the Founder: David Yu 01:09 The Birth of YouLearn 02:37 Early Challenges and Successes 05:09 Going Viral Again 05:45 Handling Rapid Growth 08:14 Maintaining Motivation 10:53 The Importance of Co-Founders 12:00 Transition to Full-Time 15:30 Iterating on the Product 18:36 Joining Y Combinator 21:04 Investor Skepticism Towards YC 21:49 Misconceptions About Joining YC 22:33 Right and Wrong Reasons to Join YC 23:28 Maximizing YC Experience 25:08 Navigating YC with Existing Revenue 30:26 AI's Role in Education 31:48 Future of Learning with AI 34:05 Misconceptions About AI in Learning 35:10 The Evolution of Learning Tools 40:26 Final Thoughts and Future Prospects 🎧 Listen on the go: Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4m2K7ah Apple: https://apple.co/4cZ8RMm My other YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@GJarrosson

What if your inbox didn’t just organize itself — it acted on your behalf? Nizar Abi Zaher, founder of Zero, is building the AI-native email client that reads, replies, filters, and organizes without you lifting a finger. In this tactical, fast-paced conversation, we explore his path from Cal.com engineer to YC founder — and how he's going head-to-head with Superhuman. From open-source strategies to voice-powered inboxes, Nizar breaks down how Zero is redefining email — and what it takes to ship fast, build in public, and stay top of mind. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why Zero was built around what people hate • How YC pushed them to launch before they were ready • How being open-source accelerates product velocity • What Superhuman got wrong — and what Zero does better • How social presence became their biggest moat • What email looks like in 5 years (hint: voice + AI agents) 📌 Watch now and subscribe for more smart, fast, founder-first interviews. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Zero: The AI-Powered Email Client 00:42 Meet the Founder: Nazar's Journey 01:24 The Problem with Email and Zero's Solution 02:56 Differentiating from Competitors 05:21 Rapid Development and Open Source Benefits 11:08 The Importance of Social Media Presence 14:57 Strategies for Effective Social Media Use 21:26 The Value of Authenticity on Social Media 24:07 The Importance of Onboarding 27:02 Launching and Iterating Quickly 29:31 Voice and Email Innovations 32:42 The Future of Email 40:57 The YC Experience and Final Thoughts 🎧 Listen on the go: Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4m2K7ah Apple: https://apple.co/4cZ8RMm My other YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@GJarrosson

They didn’t sell to insurance brokers — they replaced them. Dakotah Rice didn’t build AI tools for the industry. He built an AI-first insurance company — and now Harper is scaling faster than they can handle. In this episode, Dakotah shares how Harper went from kitchen-table experiments to a high-growth, fully autonomous insurance brokerage. He breaks down the real bottlenecks, the AI architecture behind their workflows, and the bold bets that could reshape an entire industry. What you’ll learn: Why Harper ditched SaaS and chose vertical integration How to embed engineers directly in operational workflows The underrated bottlenecks to AI-first company scaling Why relationships are overrated in insurtech How to build trust with real-world customers — without mentioning AI The real limits (and future) of fully autonomous firms 📌 Watch now and subscribe for more smart, fast, founder-first interviews. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Harper and Dakota Rice 00:38 Dakota's Background and Harper's Mission 02:13 Challenges and Pivots in Building Harper 04:29 Entering Y Combinator and Scaling Up 06:19 The Importance of Workflow Understanding 13:17 Lessons from Past Failures 18:34 Vision for AI in the Future 21:51 Building Complex AI Systems 22:49 Human Element in AI Services 23:53 Customer Perception of AI 27:37 Scaling Challenges and Solutions 35:14 AI's Role in Future Business Models 37:58 Future Predictions and Industry Insights 42:46 Conclusion and Contact Information 🎧 Listen on the go: Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4m2K7ah Apple: https://apple.co/4cZ8RMm My other YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@GJarrosson

What if a single AI voice agent could handle 100,000 calls a day and free up your entire support team? Episode Summary: In this episode of Lobster Talks, Gabriel sits down with Kevin Wu, founder of Leaping AI, to unpack how voice-powered AI is automating 50–70% of repetitive support calls, self-optimizing over time, and achieving 90% customer satisfaction. We dive into the origin story, technical stack, ROI metrics, human-in-the-loop safeguards, and bold predictions for 2030. You’ll learn: How Leaping AI began: from BCG ideation to the first major enterprise customer The differentiator: combining voice AI with evaluation and self-optimization modules Managing edge cases and human fallback to maintain 90% satisfaction Tech stack overview: orchestration layer, Twilio, multiple TTS/ASR providers, LLMs Calculating ROI and setting realistic metrics with weekly check-ins Future bets: AI vs. human empathy, integration challenges, market structure by 2030 Practical advice for CX leaders overwhelmed by AI hype Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Leaping AI with Kevin Wu 00:59 Kevin Wu's Journey and Inspiration 02:10 Winning the First Customer 02:41 Leaping AI's Unique Selling Points 03:59 Self-Improving AI Agents 05:17 Handling Edge Cases and Human Involvement 06:32 Early Days and First AI Call 07:33 Challenges and Continuous Improvement 09:00 Market Position and Competitor Insights 13:47 Customer Metrics and ROI 17:18 Technical Stack and Partnerships 19:09 Sponsor Message and Text-to-Speech Choices 19:32 The Best AI Voice Provider: Does It Exist? 21:10 Challenges in Voice AI for Sales 23:31 Implementing AI in Customer Support 25:37 Customer Reactions to AI 29:32 Future Predictions for AI in Customer Service 37:45 Getting Started with AI in Customer Service 📌 Watch now and subscribe for more smart, fast, founder-first interviews. 🎧 Listen on the go: Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4m2K7ah Apple: https://apple.co/4cZ8RMm My other YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@GJarrosson

What if you could edit your face and voice like a Google Doc? That’s exactly what Prady Modukuru is building at Sync—an AI company making video editing fully editable in post-production. No more re-recording. Just fix it like text. In this high-velocity episode of Lobster Talks, we go deep on Sync’s origin story, how Prady and his team ship insanely fast, and why their AI-powered content tools are poised to redefine modern storytelling. It's a masterclass in product, research, and distribution. 🔑 You’ll learn: Why the future of video is editable—not generative How Sync’s AI makes lip-sync edits invisible The secret to shipping faster than anyone else in YC What most AI startups get wrong about growth How content became Sync’s unfair advantage The risks—and responsibilities—of powerful AI models 📌 Watch now and subscribe for more smart, fast, founder-first interviews. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Lobster Talks 00:05 Meet Prade Moku and Sync 00:48 How Sync Revolutionizes Video Editing 02:49 The Journey and Growth of Sync 06:44 The Importance of Speed and Culture 12:44 Content Strategy and Its Impact 23:23 AI Modified vs. AI Generated Videos 25:43 Future of Video Editing 25:57 Challenges in Human Editing 27:55 AI in Video Production 28:18 Common Mistakes in AI Video Companies 30:58 Organic vs Paid Content 32:00 Content Creation and Distribution 38:10 Future of Small Content Teams 41:56 Risks and Ethical Concerns 49:21 Exciting Developments at Sync 50:34 Conclusion and Farewell 🎧 Listen on the go: Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4m2K7ah Apple: https://apple.co/4cZ8RMm My other YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@GJarrosson

The YC Demo Day almost turned investors away at the door — and that might’ve been the point. In this behind-the-scenes breakdown, Gabriel Jarrosson (Lobster Capital) and Laurie dissect the most exclusive Demo Day yet, revealing why this Spring 25 batch could be the best in years. We explore YC's most AI-heavy cohort, debate sky-high valuations, and uncover what separates a good startup from a breakout unicorn. You’ll learn: Why YC Spring 25 had a record 0.8% acceptance rate What caused Demo Day chaos at the YC office How to evaluate traction vs hype in early AI startups Why some investors are restructuring funds just to get into YC How to get allocation in oversubscribed rounds Gabriel’s method for revenue due diligence during Demo Day 📌 Watch now and subscribe for more smart, fast, founder-first interviews. Chapters: 00:00 Welcome to Lobster Talks: Behind the Scenes of YC Spring 25 Demo Day 00:21 The Unique Challenges of This Year's Demo Day 02:50 Impressive Stats and Trends from the Spring Batch 04:30 The Growing Influence of AI in YC Startups 09:03 Investor Insights and Revenue Due Diligence 15:33 Evaluating Founders and Early Traction 18:07 The Darwinian Approach to Startup Evolution 18:41 Revenue as the Ultimate Proof of Success 21:13 Navigating Competition and Investor Strategies 21:48 The European Angle and Hot Deals 23:12 Valuation Challenges and Investor Decisions 25:27 The Role of Media and Networking in Investment 26:40 High Valuations and Future Growth 32:16 Follow-On Strategies and Growth Metrics 35:22 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 🎧 Listen on the go: Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4m2K7ah Apple: https://apple.co/4cZ8RMm My other YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCahCIZ9KfmeK4rLosGNYpdg

He was getting sued. Now his startup helps millions fight back — and win. In this founder-first, no-fluff conversation, George Simons breaks down how SoloSuit is dismantling a $3.5B legal industry — one lawsuit at a time. From bootstrapped beginnings and courtroom chaos to SEO-powered growth and AI-driven debt settlement, this episode is a crash course in building a business with compounding advantages and real-world impact. What you’ll learn: Why 90% of debt lawsuits are lost by default — and how SoloSuit flips the script How George bootstrapped his first product in law school using free court data The tactical role of SEO, YouTube, and content marketing in scaling user acquisition How AI is being used to mediate settlements and unlock trust in the legal system The business model shift that brought both debtors and collectors onto the same platform Why growing “slow and steady” might be the best path to building a unicorn 📌 Watch now and subscribe for more smart, fast, founder-first interviews. Chapters: 00:00 Welcome to The Lobster Talks 00:29 Introducing George Simons and Solo Suit 00:54 How Solo Suit Helps Consumers 02:52 The Evolution of Solo Suit's Services 04:08 The Legal Landscape and Solo Suit's Impact 07:20 Solo Suit's $4,700 Giveaway 09:55 Navigating Legal Challenges and Building Relationships 16:58 Customer Acquisition Strategies 25:02 Early Success and First Customers 25:29 Implementing Payment Systems 26:49 Growth and Customer Base Expansion 28:42 Business Strategy and Philosophy 30:06 Sustaining and Scaling the Business 36:52 Future Vision and AI Integration 42:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 🎧 Listen on the go: Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4m2K7ah Apple: https://apple.co/4cZ8RMm

What if your non-technical team could ship code overnight? In this fast-paced Lobster Talks roundtable, Gabriel Jarrosson sits down with Samraaj Bath (Ion Design) and Agree Ahmed (Flowglad) to unpack “Vibe Coding”—the AI-powered workflow that lets designers, PMs, and marketers iterate on real code. They clash over misconceptions, debate the future of frontend engineers, spin our Hot Take Wheel, and stake bold predictions on where AI will reshape product teams. In this episode you’ll learn: Why “non-technical” teams touching code isn’t what you think The real risks and rewards of design-first velocity How AI is the “combine-tractor” moment for software engineers Whether VCs should demand a design audit before writing checks The one debate you need to have about skipping design thinking Bold “Future Bets” on the next must-have AI design workflow 📌 Watch now and subscribe for more smart, fast, founder-first interviews. 00:00 Introduction to No-Code Revolution 00:29 Meet the Experts: Samra and Agree 03:02 Debating Vibe Coding and Non-Technical Teams 04:47 Engineering Principles and AI's Impact 09:15 The Future of Vibe Coding in Organizations 11:19 AI-Driven Changes in Team Dynamics 14:33 Challenges and Opportunities in AI Tooling 19:44 The Role of Designers in an AI-First World 28:23 The Future of Design Roles in Startups 31:33 Hot Take Wheel: No-Code Tools and Front-End Engineers 33:38 VCs and Design Audits: A Necessary Step? 36:36 Vibe Coding and Startup Defensibility 44:45 Future Bets: AI-Driven Design Workflows 52:01 Closing Thoughts and Where to Find Us 🎧 Listen on the go: Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4m2K7ah Apple: https://apple.co/4cZ8RMm

You think you know where YC is headed? Think again—agents are rewriting the playbook. In this episode of Lobster Talks, Gabriel debriefs Laurie on YC’s quarterly Request for Startups focused on AI agents. From “full-stack” AI challengers to personal assistants that go from to-do lists to done lists, we unpack the highs, the lows, and the hidden opportunities for founders and investors alike. What you’ll learn: How “full-stack” AI companies can out-muscle incumbent software tools Why AI agents like DeepResearch are already saving you a day’s work in an hour The vision for a true AI personal assistant that manages your calendar, emails, and travel Why voice interfaces (Super Whisper, Willow) are the dark horse for mainstream AI adoption How big players (OpenAI, Apple, Google) threaten—and sometimes stimulate—new startups The one metric (hint: $1M ARR) that de-risks AI investments in 2025 📌 Watch now and subscribe for more smart, fast, founder-first interviews. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:20 Diving into the Latest YC Request for Startups 00:48 The Year of AI Agents 01:10 Full Stack AI Companies 02:11 Historical RFS and AI Personal Assistants 05:21 Voice Interfaces and AI Tools 07:16 Challenges and Opportunities in AI Startups 14:14 Verticalization and Specialized AI Models 30:30 Investor Perspectives and Metrics 36:23 Conclusion and Next Steps

Revolutionizing AI Search: Ghita Alami's Vision for Zero Entropy In this episode, we chat with Ghita Alami, founder of Zero Entropy, about her company's groundbreaking approach to rebuilding search systems for AI agents. Learn about early chaos theory, tactical product insights, and the future of intelligent retrieval systems. 00:00 Introduction to AI Retrieval Systems 00:07 Meet the Founder of Zero Entropy 00:43 Building a High Accuracy Search Engine 01:17 Challenges and Solutions in AI Retrieval 02:34 Specific Use Cases and Examples 08:09 Evaluating and Improving AI Systems 12:02 YC Experience and Building Zero Entropy 20:35 Technical Deep Dive: Measuring Accuracy 22:50 Challenges of Internet Search 23:33 Evaluating Retrieval Systems 24:02 Improving Recall and Precision 25:03 Advice for Founders on Search Issues 26:11 Leveraging LLMs in Tech Stacks 27:28 Staying Relevant in a Rapidly Changing AI Landscape

🎙️ Inversion Semiconductor: The Startup Taking On ASML with a Tabletop Particle Accelerator What if the next leap in chip manufacturing didn't come from a trillion-dollar company — but from two founders building a compact particle accelerator in Berkeley? In this episode of Lobster Talks, Gabriel Jarrosson sits down with Rohan Karthik and Daniel Vega, the founders of Inversion Semiconductor, a YC-backed deeptech startup building a radically new lithography machine. Their tech promises to manufacture the world’s most powerful chips — 15x faster than anything out there — and reshore advanced chipmaking to the U.S. for the first time in decades. We get into: How they shrunk a particle accelerator 1000× Why ASML can’t (and won’t) build this Fundraising for a moonshot in deeptech The gap between U.S. and European startup ecosystems Predictions on photonics, quantum computing, and the post-Moore’s Law era Whether you’re a founder, investor, engineer, or just deeptech-curious — this episode is a wild ride through physics, ambition, and the future of chips. 📌 Watch now and subscribe for more smart, fast, founder-first interviews. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction 00:37 Meet the Founders: Rohan and Daniel 00:57 The Technology Behind Inversion 02:19 Why ASML Isn't Doing This 05:16 Backgrounds: From ARM to Particle Accelerators 08:44 The Inception of the Idea 12:52 Exploring Other Applications 15:54 Early Struggles and the Path to Validation 21:42 Why Build in the US? 24:49 Comparing Talent in Europe and the US 25:43 Challenges in European Investment 28:45 The YC Experience for Deep Tech Startups 35:02 Building Advanced Semiconductor Tools in the US 45:11 Future Predictions for Chip Technology 47:07 Conclusion and Farewell 🔗 LINKS Inversion Semiconductor: https://inversionsemi.com Follow Gabriel: https://twitter.com/gabjarrosson #Semiconductors #DeepTech #YC #HardwareStartups #ASML #Chips #Photonics #QuantumComputing #MooresLaw #StartupPodcast

Join us for an intriguing discussion with Stef from Reditus Space as we explore the potential of zero gravity manufacturing. Learn how Reditus Space aims to revolutionize production by using reusable satellites to create unique and superior materials in space. Discover the challenges and exciting opportunities this new frontier presents, from pharmaceuticals to semiconductors, and even the possibility of organ manufacturing. Dive deep into the fascinating world of space factories, the impact of AI, reusability in space travel, and the future of space exploration. 00:00 Introduction 00:20 Meet Stef 00:34 Zero G Manufacturing 01:43 Challenges and Opportunities 05:38 Returning from Space 08:37 Future of Space Manufacturing 16:07 The Journey of Reditus Space 18:23 Upcoming Mission 20:38 Risk Mitigation 21:20 Economics 22:45 Reusability 25:43 Reentry 31:13 Future of Space Manufacturing 35:29 Human Presence in Space 37:50 Book Rec

In this episode of The Lobster Talks, we delve into the current state of the tech investment landscape, highlighting how fear and uncertainty in the market, partly driven by political factors like Trump's tariffs, influence investor behavior. Gabriel discusses the unique ecosystem of Y Combinator (YC) and its resilience during tumultuous times, noting that the best startups tend to thrive even when broader market conditions are bearish. The conversation also touches on the importance of investing during down cycles, the impact of AI on accelerating business processes, and the significance of founder passion and personal connection to their problem space. Gabriel also offers insights into the role of content creation and personal branding for founders, emphasizing how these elements can serve as powerful tools for customer acquisition and value creation. 00:00 Intro 00:51 Current Funding Landscape and Market Uncertainty 01:55 The Resilience of YC Startups 07:32 The Importance of Founder Passion and Connection 17:53 The Role of Pivots in Startup Success 22:55 Evaluating AI Investments and Technical Moats 28:56 The Power of Content and Personal Branding 33:41 Conclusion

In this episode of Lobster Talks, I sit down with Ashi and Reza, the unstoppable founders of Spaceium—a YC-backed startup building orbital gas stations. 🚀 They share the raw and incredible story of how they went from nearly homeless right before YC to raising $6.3M, signing $86.5M in commercial contracts, and securing $1B+ in LOIs—all before launching their first mission to space. We cover: How they pitched an insanely hard idea and actually built it The truth about LOIs and how they converted them into binding contracts YC’s impact on hardware companies How they managed product, sales, and investor traction simultaneously—while not sleeping 🧠💥 Whether you're a founder, investor, or just obsessed with space, this episode is a masterclass in grit, hardtech, and startup survival. 00:00 Introduction to Spaceium 00:25 Meet the Founders: Ashi and Reza 00:44 Spaceium's Revolutionary Space Stations 01:56 Challenges and Innovations in Space Refueling 04:02 The Dual Mission: Refueling and Repairing 05:13 Competing with SpaceX? 06:24 From Homeless to YC Success 08:59 The Power of LOIs and Contracts 11:42 The YC Experience and Building Hardware 20:00 Building Hardware in the US 20:45 Managing Customer Expectations 22:40 From LOIs to Binding Contracts 24:06 Setting Timelines for Startups 26:38 Pricing Strategies for Unbuilt Products 29:11 Upcoming Missions and Exciting Developments 30:58 Challenges and Rewards of Building Hard Tech 32:55 Book Recommendations and Final Thoughts 36:21 Where to Follow and Contact Us

In this episode of Lobster Talks, Gabriel dives deep into the groundbreaking Y Combinator Winter 2025 Demo Day. Discover how the latest YC batch shattered revenue records, including a startup already pulling in $50 million in profits and another hitting $2 million in revenue at demo day. They discuss why the quality bar is rising, the explosion of AI-powered startups, and whether the AI wave has peaked or is just getting started. Plus, get insights on what metrics truly matter beyond vanity revenue, navigating technical debt in the era of AI-generated code, and the strategic decisions founders face regarding fundraising and acquisitions. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at the future of startup investing.

00:00 - 00:50 Intro 00:50 - 01:23 What's StarCloud? 1:23 - 02:05 Why GPUs in Space? 02:05 - 03:35 Abundant Energy 03:35 - 05:50 Why No One Did It Before 05:50 - 07:30 Starship Economics 07:30 - 08:50 Philip’s Background 08:50 - 10:00 Can Anyone Start a Space Company? 10:00 - 12:30 Building in Space 12:30 - 13:20 Does Space Solar Affect Earth? 13:20 - 17:00 Raising an $11M Seed Round 17:00 - 19:00 Spending Habits 19:00 - 20:00 Hiring at StarCloud 20:00 - 21:00 Relocating 21:00 - 24:15 Hard vs. Easy Startups 24:15 - 25:35 Skepticism & Critics 25:35 - 27:00 The Rebrand 27:00 - 29:25 Next Steps 29:25 - 30:25 Book Recommendations 30:25 - 30:56 Closing Thought In this episode of The Lobster Talks, we sit down with Philip Johnston, Founder & CEO of Starcloud (formerly Lumen Orbit). He’s on a groundbreaking mission to build massive GPU data centers in outer space—tapping into abundant solar energy, sidestepping Earth’s power constraints, and completely rethinking what’s possible for cloud computing. Listen in as we explore: • How Starcloud plans to harness orbital launch cost drops (thanks, Starship!) • Why running GPUs in space could transform data processing • The challenges and breakthroughs of launching a next-gen satellite • Raising a massive seed round—oversubscribed by top VCs If you’re curious about the frontier of hardware, AI, and space tech, don’t miss this deep dive into the future of data centers… in orbit! Enjoying the show? Give us a like, subscribe for more founder spotlights, and stay tuned for the next episode of The Lobster Talks by Lobster Capital!

Join us on the Lobster Talks Podcast as host Gabrielle sits down with Michel Tricot, co-founder and CEO of Airbyte—the open-source data integration platform that skyrocketed to a billion-dollar valuation in record time. Michel reveals Airbyte’s origin story (including scrapping their first product in the midst of COVID), how they built a thriving open-source community, and their unique approach to monetization. Get ready for insights on scaling without burning cash, harnessing AI to automate the mundane, and the power of “making something people need. ” Don’t miss this episode if you’re an entrepreneur, investor, or tech enthusiast looking to understand Airbyte’s meteoric rise and the future of data infrastructure!

In this episode of The Lobster Talks, I’m joined by entrepreneur-turned-investor Johannes Hatt. After founding and exiting multiple companies—including a SaaS startup scaled to 300 employees and 30M ARR—Johannes has invested in over 80 early-stage startups and over 10 venture funds. Now, he’s jumping back into the CEO seat! We Discuss • His journey from founding companies to investing in startups and funds • How he analyzes opportunities—both as an angel and as an LP • Why Europe’s startup ecosystem has potential (despite U.S. dominance) • The “checklist” he uses before writing any check • His return to building and operating a startup Johannes also shares practical insights on aligning incentives, navigating illiquidity, and scouting for that elusive 100x return. If you found this conversation helpful, like this video, subscribe to the channel, and let us know your biggest takeaway in the comments! Timestamps 0:00 Introduction & Johannes’s Background 2:13 From Founder to Angel Investor to LP 8:47 How He Picks Funds & Why Differentiated Deal Flow Matters 14:10 Europe vs. U.S.: The Opportunity Gap 20:56 Rules for Investing (And When to Break Them) 24:32 Why Johannes Is Returning as CEO 27:45 Key Takeaways & Wrap-Up Thanks for tuning in, and we’ll see you next time on The Lobster Talks!

In this episode of The Lobster Talks, I chat with Varsha—co-founder of Offstream, a YC-backed startup helping big infrastructure projects (solar farms, data centers, and more) secure crucial carbon-compliance certifications. Varsha shares how her consulting background and direct experience with manual, PDF-heavy compliance processes inspired her to build a smarter, AI-driven solution—something she likens to “Vanta for Carbon Compliance.” Key Topics We Cover • Why Carbon Compliance Matters – How certifications unlock massive revenue opportunities for developers building solar facilities, renewable fuels, data centers, and more. • Building Offstream – How Varsha’s firsthand frustration with manual reporting led to the idea for Offstream and eventually landed them in Y Combinator’s Summer 24 batch. • The Power of AI in Compliance – Where AI can streamline complex data extraction and predictive recommendations, transforming what was once a major bottleneck. • Balancing Big Ambitions & Personal Growth – Varsha’s views on mentorship, coaching, and staying motivated by celebrating “the gain” while striving for big goals. • Life after YC – Why Offstream chose Denver over the Bay Area, current product milestones, and what’s next on their roadmap. If you’re a founder exploring hard-to-automate niches, or just curious about how AI is reshaping climate tech, this episode is for you. Timestamps 0:00 Introduction & How Gabriel Met Varsha 3:18 The Spark Behind Offstream (Vanta for Carbon Compliance) 6:35 Navigating YC & Key Takeaways 10:42 The Role of AI in Streamlining Carbon Credits 14:50 Personal Mentors, Coaching & Founders’ Mentality 20:11 Real-Time Data & AI Agents in Sustainability Projects 24:18 Denver Headquarters & Future of Offstream 28:40 Pricing Challenges & Industry Partnerships 32:00 Recommended Reading: The Gap and the Gain + Lean In 34:22 Where to Connect & Final Thoughts Enjoy the conversation? Like, Subscribe, and turn on Notifications so you don’t miss any future episodes of The Lobster Talks! And if you’re on a podcast platform, drop us a 5-star rating. Connect with Offstream: Website: https://useoffstream.com/ LinkedIn: Varsha’s Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/varsha-ramesh/ Thanks for watching! Feel free to leave questions or comments below.

In this episode of The Lobster Talks, we’re joined by Wayne Crosby, a true startup veteran with a remarkable full-circle journey: • 2007: Wayne became a Y Combinator founder in one of the earliest cohorts, quickly landing a Google acquisition that evolved into Google Slides. • A Decade at Google: He stayed on to help grow G Suite, diving into AI and shaping how millions of users collaborate online. • Startup #2 & Another Exit: After co-founding a second company with Google’s former CHRO, he returned to YC as a Visiting Group Partner to coach a new generation of founders. • Today: Wayne is back to building as founder/CEO of Orgorg.com, a toolset for seamless team management and productivity, integrating AI under the hood. We talk early YC days, Google’s culture of innovation, what it’s really like behind the scenes as a YC Partner, and why Wayne ultimately returned to his roots as a builder. If you’re curious about AI’s impact on future jobs, or just want insider knowledge on startup growth, this is a must-listen. Key Discussion Points • The magic (and myths) of the very first YC cohorts • Lessons from building Google Slides and leading teams inside Big Tech • Why AI is more than just a buzzword—and how Wayne is weaving it into Orgorg.com • Life as a YC Visiting Group Partner—what founders should really know • Embracing your inner builder: how Wayne found his true passion in startup creation Enjoy the episode? Subscribe, give us a 5-star rating, and share your favorite part in the comments! Timestamps 0:00 Welcome & Wayne’s Background 4:17 Early YC Days (2007) 9:32 Google Acquisition & Lessons Learned 14:45 AI at Google & Future of Work 22:10 From Founder to Visiting YC Group Partner 28:55 Building Orgorg.com & Founder Insights 38:16 Balancing Family & Startup Life 43:00 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs Thanks for tuning in to The Lobster Talks!

In this episode of The Lobster Talks Podcast, Laurie joins me once again to dissect Y Combinator’s brand-new Request for Startups—released just three months after their last one! We explore what’s behind YC’s accelerated timeline, the massive surge of AI innovation, and why now might be the best (and most challenging) time to build or invest in cutting-edge tech. From hardware breakthroughs and AI-powered agents to the “DocuSign 2.0” and data centers of the future, YC’s RFS signals a shift into deeper, more technical territory. We dig into how founders can stand out, the importance of iterating fast, and what investors should consider in this fast-moving AI landscape. Topics Covered • Why YC introduced a new RFS so soon and what it means for AI startups • The rise of AI agents and how they’re transforming business operations • Hardware vs. software innovation—and the traction investors want to see • Evaluating top-tier technical founders when speed is everything • Why YC remains the go-to launchpad for AI-driven companies Enjoy the conversation, and if you find it valuable: Subscribe to the channel for more insights on AI and startup investing.Like & Share this video with fellow founders and investors.Leave a 5-star review on your favorite podcast platform—it really helps! Thanks for tuning in, and we’ll catch you on the next episode of The Lobster Talks!

In this episode of Lobster Talks, we’re joined by Jason Fan, CEO and Co-Founder of Finic—an AI “risk ops” startup transforming how banks and fintechs tackle fraud and disputes. Jason opens up about his tough decision to shut down a revenue-generating company ($150k!) in order to chase a far bigger vision. Together, we dive into: Why making $150k didn’t guarantee long-term success—and why he walked away How opportunity cost shapes big pivots and investment decisions The realities of pivoting after 18 months—from the heartbreak to the breakthroughs What Jason learned at Robinhood’s Trust & Safety team and turned into Finic’s secret sauce The future of AI-powered fintech and how it’s set to solve financial crime once and for all Whether you’re a founder stuck in the “idea maze” or a fintech enthusiast curious about AI’s next frontier, Jason’s story is packed with real talk, razor-sharp insights, and a fresh perspective on turning roadblocks into rocket fuel. Don’t miss this masterclass on knowing when to pivot—and when to go all in. Chapters 0:00 Intro to Lobster Talks 1:15 Jason’s background: From Robinhood to Finic 5:22 Building an internal tool into a new startup idea 8:48 The $150k revenue trap and facing the pivot decision 13:00 The role of “opportunity cost” in startup success 16:35 Surviving mental hurdles and ego hits 20:59 Why pivoting can be smarter than “toughing it out” 24:14 The future of AI in financial fraud prevention 28:55 YC lessons, founder communities, and staying resilient 33:40 Final thoughts & where to connect with Jason Enjoyed the episode? Hit the like button, subscribe for more high-level startup insights, and let us know your thoughts or questions in the comments below! Stay tuned for more conversations with trailblazing founders sharing the raw truths behind their success—and failure—stories. Don’t forget to subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode! Thanks for watching! If this conversation sparked new ideas, share it with a friend who might need some startup inspiration.

In this episode of Lobster Talks, Gabriel chats with Yonatan - co-founder of Jiga (YC W21) - about how a simple WordPress MVP grew into an AI-powered platform reinventing global manufacturing. Yonatan reveals the ups and downs of hitting walls, pivoting from marketplace to SaaS (and back again), and ultimately nailing product-market fit. They also discuss staying humble when things finally take off, fundraising highs and lows, and insights from Israel’s vibrant startup community. If you want real, practical lessons on iterating fast, listening to users, and leveraging AI for operational efficiency, this one’s for you! Chapters 0:00 Introduction & How Jiga Got Started 3:20 Building a WordPress MVP & Getting Early Revenue 6:45 Pivoting from Transaction Model to SaaS (and Back) 10:02 Staying Scrappy Through Challenges & Hitting Walls 14:15 How AI Boosted Margins & Automates Ops 17:40 Surviving the Early “No Revenue” Stage 21:30 Lessons from the Israeli Startup Scene & YC Community 25:51 Why Being Humble Matters (Even During Success) 29:14 Jiga’s Vision for the Future & Final Takeaways Enjoying the conversation? Subscribe for more founder interviewsDrop a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyShare your biggest takeaway in the comments! Thanks for watching!

In this Lobster Talks episode, Gabriel returns to discuss what’s on the horizon for YC and startup investing in 2025. We dive into Y Combinator’s shift to four batches per year, why AI is fueling rapid growth (and even potential AGI!), and how that might reshape the investment landscape. We also reflect on Lobster Capital’s stellar 2024—from an oversubscribed Fund 1 to multiple fast-growing portfolio companies—and explore Europe’s evolving role in the global startup scene. If you’re curious how AI, YC, and cross-border opportunities will collide in 2025, this one’s for you! Chapters 0:00 – Introduction 1:12 – Reflecting on Lobster Capital’s Milestones in 2024 4:39 – Inside YC’s Four Batches per Year 9:55 – AI’s Acceleration & the Push Toward AGI 14:02 – Revenue Traction vs. Defensibility: Key Investing Criteria 18:47 – Shifts in Seed, Series A, and Beyond 23:15 – Potential Exit Strategies & Secondary Markets 27:44 – The Future of European Startups vs. Silicon Valley 31:58 – Closing Thoughts & What’s Next for 2025 Enjoying Lobster Talks? Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more startup insightsLeave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyFollow us on social for behind-the-scenes updates

In this episode of The Lobster Talks, I sit down with Roberto Salcedo—co-founder and CEO of Baubap, a Y Combinator-backed fintech that’s reshaping consumer lending in Mexico. Discover how Roberto’s team grew Baubap from a scrappy $3M seed round to generating $100M+ in revenue by building everything in-house and leveraging AI years before it was mainstream. What You’ll Learn - The early product decisions that fueled explosive, profitable growth - How Baubap uses AI to underwrite loans and keep default rates low - Why building core systems from scratch can create a massive competitive edge - Navigating funding, profitability, and future expansion plans (including a regional banking license!) - Lessons learned from YC, plus powerful advice for fellow entrepreneurs If you’re fascinated by fintech, AI, or just want an inside look at an incredible founder journey, you don’t want to miss this! Enjoying the conversation? Hit Subscribe, drop a Like, and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode of The Lobster Talks!

🎙️ Lobster Talks Podcast - Episode with Valentin Sulzer, Founder of Ionworks 🚀 Welcome to the latest episode of the Lobster Talks podcast by Lobster Capital! In this episode, Gabriel sits down with Valentin Sulzer, founder of Ionworks, a revolutionary startup transforming battery innovation through cutting-edge software. 🔋 Batteries are critical to powering the 21st century—from EVs to satellites, and even electric planes. Valentin explains how Ionworks accelerates battery development by simulating advanced designs in software, eliminating the need for costly and time-consuming physical prototypes. Discover how their solution is changing the game for industries, from automotive to aerospace. 💡 Valentin also shares insights from his journey, including: The evolution of Ionworks from the open-source PyBAM project His experience as a YC Summer '24 founder The future of batteries and AI’s role in enabling innovation 🔥 Whether you're a founder, an investor, or someone curious about the tech shaping the future, this episode is packed with insights you can’t miss. 🔗 Links Mentioned: Learn more about Ionworks: https://www.ionworks.com/ Connect with Valentin Sulzer on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valentinsulzer/ ✨ Don’t forget to subscribe to the Lobster Talks podcast for more inspiring stories from successful YC founders!

In this episode of the Lobster Talks Podcast, we join Laurie to discuss the exciting highlights from Y Combinator's Fall 2024 Demo Day — the first in-person demo day since 2019. The conversation covers the unique experience of attending the event at San Francisco's Masonic Center, the benefits of having a smaller batch size, and the impressive growth of startups leveraging AI. Gabriel Jarrosson also shares insights on investment strategies, the impact of AI on startup ecosystems, and the future of job creation in the context of advancing technology. Tune in to hear about the standout companies in this batch and what to expect in the upcoming sessions. 00:00 Welcome to the Lobster Talks Podcast 00:21 First In-Person Demo Day Since 2019 02:42 The Impact of Smaller Batches 05:33 AI's Role in Startup Growth 08:12 Developer Tools and YC's Focus 12:32 Investing in the Future of AI 23:20 YC's Request for Startups 28:40 Lobster Capital's Investment Strategy 31:50 Looking Ahead to Future Batches 35:11 Conclusion and Farewell

Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be financial advice. I am not a licensed financial advisor. Any actions you take based on the information presented are at your own risk. Please consult with a qualified financial professional before making any investment decisions.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be financial advice. I am not a licensed financial advisor. Any actions you take based on the information presented are at your own risk. Please consult with a qualified financial professional before making any investment decisions.

Are you curious about where venture capital is heading and how Y Combinator is shaping the future? Lobster Capital's Gabriel Jarrosson has the inside scoop! In this episode, Gabriel Jarrosson dives into the evolving world of venture capital, focusing on emerging trends and the unique opportunities within the Y Combinator ecosystem. He shares his excitement about AI's prominence in the upcoming YC batch, emphasizing the importance of real-world problem-solving and revenue generation. Gabriel also discusses the positive implications of YC's move to four batches a year, including improved mentorship, media exposure, and deal flow for investors like Lobster Capital. The conversation also highlights the significance of B2B software in YC's portfolio, exploring the reasons behind its dominance and the continued importance of B2C innovation. Gabriel's data-driven approach and belief in YC as a distinct asset class further illuminate Lobster Capital's investment strategy. He concludes with his optimistic predictions for the future of YC and venture capital as a whole. Don't miss this episode for valuable insights and a glimpse into the dynamic world of startups and investments. EPISODE IN A GLANCE 00:00 Y Combinator's Latest News (Demo Day, 4 batches per year, and the rise of AI) 05:21 The Y Combinator Network: Impact and De-risking Investments 11:30 The Shift Toward B2B Software and Fintech in YC's Unicorn Portfolio 13:57 The Future of Venture Capital: AI, Impact Investing, and New Models 17:53 Lobster Capital's Focus on Early Traction and Strategy 23:46 The Importance of the YC Ecosystem: An Asset Class in Itself ABOUT GABRIEL JARROSSON Gabriel Jarrosson is a seasoned investor and entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in the startup space and the General Partner of Lobster Capital. He has invested over $25M in Y Combinator startups. Having sold three of his own startups, he shares his expertise in his books "My Investor Secrets" and "Investing in Startups: x100 or Nothing." CONNECT WITH GABRIEL JARROSSON YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@lobstercapital Website → https://www.lobstercap.com/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrieljarrosson/ Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/lobstercapital/ Tiktok → https://www.tiktok.com/@lobstercapital Stay ahead of the game with the latest startup insights. Subscribe to our newsletter for startup updates and actionable insights → https://lobstercap.ck.page/c34c61a155

Have you ever wondered how art and AI could possibly intersect? Today's guest, Madeleine D'Angelo, co-founder of Arthena, is here to tell us how she revolutionized the art market with data and machine learning, leading to a successful acquisition by Masterworks. In this episode of The Lobster Talks Podcast, we dive into the inspiring founder journey of Madeleine D'Angelo. Starting with a background in art history, Madeleine shares how she found her way into the tech world and built Arthena, a company that brought quantitative reasoning and pricing to the art market. We'll hear about her experience at Y Combinator, the challenges she faced along the way, and ultimately, the decision to sell Arthena to Masterworks. Madeleine also gives us a glimpse into her new venture, The Barker Price, where she's applying AI to the insurance industry. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of art, technology, and entrepreneurship. EPISODE IN A GLANCE 00:00 Introduction to Madelaine D'Angelo and Arthena 02:08 The Founding Story: Bringing Math and AI to the Art Market 04:55 YC's Impact on Arthena's Growth 09:22 Madeleine's New Venture: AI Pricing for Insurance 15:25 The Exit: Arthena's Acquisition by Masterworks 24:05 What Excites Madelaine About Her New Venture 26:34 Book/Quote That Impacted Madelaine's Life ABOUT MADELAINE D'ANGELO Madeleine D'Angelo is a serial entrepreneur with a passion for blending art and technology. Co-founder of Arthena, she revolutionized the art market by introducing quantitative analysis and machine learning to art valuation. After a successful exit to Masterworks, Madeleine embarked on a new venture, The Barker Price, applying AI to the insurance industry. Driven by a love for problem-solving and a fascination with data, Madeleine is a force to be reckoned with in the tech world. CONNECT WITH MADELAINE D'ANGELO Email → [email protected] LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/madelaine-d-angelo-b3508816/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebarkerprice/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/company/arthena/ GRAB THE BOOK MADELAINE RECOMMENDS → Shackleton's Way: Leadership Lessons from the Great Antarctic Explorer https://a.co/d/3XYcKJi ABOUT GABRIEL JARROSSON Gabriel Jarrosson is a seasoned investor and entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in the startup space and the General Partner of Lobster Capital. He has invested over $25M in Y Combinator startups. Having sold three of his own startups, he shares his expertise in his books "My Investor Secrets" and "Investing in Startups: x100 or Nothing." CONNECT WITH GABRIEL JARROSSON YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@lobstercapital Website → https://www.lobstercap.com/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrieljarrosson/ Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/lobstercapital/ Tiktok → https://www.tiktok.com/@lobstercapital Stay ahead of the game with the latest startup insights. Subscribe to our newsletter for startup updates and actionable insights → https://lobstercap.ck.page/c34c61a155

Can AI unlock the secrets of the human brain? Join Gabriel Jarrosson, General Partner of Lobster Capital, as he talks with Dimitris Fotis Sakellariou and Kris Pahuja, the co-founders of Piramidal, a Y Combinator company building a groundbreaking AI model for brainwaves. Learn about their journey from academic research to building a business, the challenges they face in this complex space, and how Y Combinator has helped them accelerate their growth. Key Takeaways: -Piramidal's unique approach: They are building a foundational AI model for EEG brainwaves to translate them into actionable insights for humans. -Addressing a major need: They aim to improve the analysis and interpretation of brainwaves to better diagnose neurological disorders and support well-being. -Challenges of AI in Neuroscience: Data collection and annotation are major hurdles, as brainwave data is more complex and sensitive than other types of AI data. -Y Combinator's impact: YC has played a crucial role in refining their business model, connecting with experts, and accelerating their growth. -The future of Piramidal: They plan to expand their model to incorporate other biosignals (like heart rate, sleep data) and create personalized AI solutions for individuals. EPISODE IN A GLANCE -Introduction and Piramidal's Mission -The Origin Story and Building a Brainwave AI Model -Business Model and Early Discussions -Joining Y Combinator and Early Startup Journey -Technical and Business Challenges with Brainwave Data -Data Access and Importance of Partnerships -Y Combinator's View and Advice for Piramidal -Fundraising Challenges and Success -Finding Investors for Moonshot Ideas -Key Takeaways from Fundraising Process -Future Vision: Beyond EEG -Potential Synergies with Neuralink -Piramidal's Approach vs. Neuralink's Technology -Contact Information and Concluding Remarks ABOUT DIMITRI SAKELLARIOU & KRIS PAHUJA Dimitris holds a PhD in Neuroengineering and AI, and has conducted EEG research for 12 years at St Thomas' Hospital and King's College London. Additionally, brings four years of experience in shipping to production deep learning products for pharma and healthcare clients, as a Lead at IQVIA. Kris is an expert in product and strategy, with significant roles at Google and Spotify. Led the content detection tool initiative at Spotify and drove Chrome OS's expansion into the healthcare market. CONNECT WITH DIMITRI SAKELLARIOU & KRIS PAHUJA Website → https://piramidal.ai/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/sacellarius/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/kris-pahuja-a59a905b/ Email → [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], & [email protected]. GRAB THE BOOK KRIS RECOMMENDS Neuromancer by William Gibson → https://a.co/d/aBASwBv ABOUT GABRIEL JARROSSON Gabriel Jarrosson is a seasoned investor and entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in the startup space and the General Partner of Lobster Capital. He has invested over $25M in Y Combinator startups. Having sold three of his own startups, he shares his expertise in his books "My Investor Secrets" and "Investing in Startups: x100 or Nothing." CONNECT WITH GABRIEL JARROSSON YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@lobstercapital Website → https://www.lobstercap.com/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrieljarrosson/ Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/lobstercapital/ Tiktok → https://www.tiktok.com/@lobstercapital Stay ahead of the game with the latest startup insights. Subscribe to our newsletter for startup updates and actionable insights → https://lobstercap.ck.page/c34c61a155

Is a high valuation a guarantee of success, or is early traction the true indicator of a winning startup? Join Gabriel Jarrosson, General Partner of Lobster Capital, as he shares his insights on a successful investment in Baubap, a Y Combinator graduate disrupting the financial landscape in Mexico. Gabriel delves into why he invested in Baubap, highlighting their innovative approach to microloans and their impressive early traction. He also reveals the outcome of the investment, demonstrating how Baubap has become a thriving company with a valuation exceeding $1 billion. This episode explores why Y Combinator is a powerful asset class for investors and how to maximize your chances of co-investing in top YC companies. Gabriel outlines Lobster Capital's investment criteria, focusing on the importance of early traction and identifying companies with a distinct "YC premium." He explains how Lobster Capital provides investors with access to these top-performing YC companies and shares valuable insights for those looking to invest in this exciting space. Key Takeaways: -Y Combinator is a powerful asset class. YC companies have a high rate of success, with 5-6% becoming unicorns and 39% raising Series A funding. -Early traction is crucial. Investing in companies with strong early traction can mitigate execution risk and lead to higher returns. -Lobster Capital focuses on the top 10% of YC companies. Gabriel only invests in YC companies with the most impressive early traction and growth. -Co-investing is a valuable strategy for accessing top YC companies. Investors can gain access to these companies through funds like Lobster Capital, which have a proven track record. -Corporate social responsibility can drive positive returns. Baubap's commitment to financial education and customer care has translated into better results and a more sustainable business model. EPISODE IN A GLANCE 00:51 Baubap's innovative approach to microloans and their data-driven model 01:41 Baubap's Speed of Loan Approval 02:16 The High Delinquency Rate in Microfinance 03:15 The importance of early traction in startups and the "YC premium" 05:41 Lobster Capital's investment strategy, focusing on top-performing YC companies and growth potential 08:15 Baubap's Valuation and Rapid Growth 10:30 The Importance of Traction Over Valuation 11:53 Baubap's social responsibility and financial education approach 16:28 Lobster Capital's commitment to social impact and helping founders create a better future 17:53 The impact of Y Combinator's program on Baubap's rapid growth 18:40 The 'Maniacal Sense of Urgency' Instilled by Y Combinator 20:39 Why Y Combinator is a valuable asset class and how it influences Lobster Capital's investment decisions 24:12 How investors can gain access to top YC companies and the benefits of co-investing 24:14 Advice for Investors Seeking to Invest in Top YC Companies ABOUT GABRIEL JARROSSON Gabriel Jarrosson is a seasoned investor and entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in the startup space and the General Partner of Lobster Capital. He has invested over $25M in Y Combinator startups. Having sold three of his own startups, he shares his expertise in his books "My Investor Secrets" and "Investing in Startups: x100 or Nothing." CONNECT WITH GABRIEL JARROSSON YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@lobstercapital Website → https://www.lobstercap.com/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrieljarrosson/ Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/lobstercapital/ Tiktok → https://www.tiktok.com/@lobstercapital Stay ahead of the game with the latest startup insights. Subscribe to our newsletter for startup updates and actionable insights → https://lobstercap.ck.page/c34c61a155

How do a psychotherapist and a psychologist with no tech background build a multi-million dollar coaching business and land a spot in Y Combinator? This episode takes you inside the story of Torch, a company revolutionizing professional development with a unique blend of coaching, software, and behavioral science. Co-founders Cameron Yarbrough and Keegan Walden, both veterans of the psychology and coaching world, share their journey from meeting at a psychotherapy training program to building a successful startup that has raised over $80 million in funding. They reveal the key ingredients behind their success: a shared passion for leadership development, a data-driven approach to coaching, and the invaluable experience of going through Y Combinator. But they also candidly discuss the challenges they faced, particularly the emotional toll of building a business and the importance of self-awareness and mindfulness for founders. This episode is filled with insightful advice for entrepreneurs and investors alike. Listen in to discover the power of effective coaching, the hidden “secrets” of the Y Combinator program, and the importance of personal development for navigating the complex world of startups. EPISODE IN A GLANCE -Introduction of Cameron and Keegan and Torch's Mission -How the Founders Met and Their Shared Background -The Catalyst for Starting Torch -The Story of How the Founders Reconnected -The Value of T-Groups and Its Impact on the Founders -The Early Days of Torch and the Decision to Apply to Y Combinator -Joining Y Combinator and the Importance of a Tech Co-Founder -Fundraising and the Impact of Rapid Growth -Keegan's Departure from Torch and the Co-Founder's Dilemma -The Importance of Addressing Burnout and Personal Growth as a Founder -The Impact of Work on Family Life -The Co-Founder's Dilemma -Transitioning Leadership Roles -The Role of Coaching in Leadership -Reflections on Y Combinator -The Importance of Self-Awareness for Founders ABOUT CAMERON YARBROUGH AND KEEGAN WALDEN Cameron is the co-founder and CEO of Torch, a company that provides professional development services to organizations through a combination of coaching, software, and behavioral science. He has a background as a psychotherapist and executive coach, working with notable tech founders like Garry Tan and Steve Huffman. Keegan is the co-founder of Torch and a psychologist who specializes in leadership development. He has a PhD and brings a deep understanding of the psychology of human behavior and its impact on success. CONNECT WITH CAMERON YARBROUGH AND KEEGAN WALDEN Website → https://torch.io/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-yarbrough-60579948/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/keegan-walden-ph-d-672ab9101/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-labs ABOUT GABRIEL JARROSSON Gabriel Jarrosson is a seasoned investor and entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in the startup space and the General Partner of Lobster Capital. He has invested over $25M in Y Combinator startups. Having sold three of his own startups, he shares his expertise in his books "My Investor Secrets" and "Investing in Startups: x100 or Nothing." CONNECT WITH GABRIEL JARROSSON YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@lobstercapital Website → https://www.lobstercap.com/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrieljarrosson/ Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/lobstercapital/ Tiktok → https://www.tiktok.com/@lobstercapital Stay ahead of the game with the latest startup insights. Subscribe to our newsletter for startup updates and actionable insights → https://lobstercap.ck.page/c34c61a155

Is your investment portfolio missing the "Michelin Star" of YC startup investing? Gabriel Jarrosson, the solo general partner at Lobster Capital, pulls back the curtain on his unique approach to investing in the very best Y Combinator (YC) companies. In this episode of the second season of Lobster Talks, Gabriel Jarrosson, a seasoned entrepreneur turned investor, shares his incredible journey from angel investing to founding Lobster Capital, a fund dedicated to backing the most promising YC startups. He unveils the secrets behind his exclusive access to high-profile deals, often co-investing alongside giants like Google Ventures and Bessemer Venture Partners. Gabriel's deep understanding of technology, entrepreneurial experience, and vast network make him a valuable partner for founders and a sought-after resource for investors. He shares his rigorous investment criteria, emphasizing the importance of early traction, scalability, and a founder's ability to articulate a clear vision for growth. Key Takeaways: -Lobster Capital's Focus: Lobster Capital specializes in funding the very best Y Combinator startups, a highly competitive space where early traction and scalability are paramount. -The Value of Early Traction: Gabriel highlights the importance of early traction and revenue as a key indicator of a startup's potential for success, emphasizing the need to invest in companies already demonstrating a clear path to growth. -Beyond Capital: Providing Value: Lobster Capital goes beyond simply writing checks, offering practical guidance on customer acquisition, sales, SEO, and more, drawing on Gabriel's own entrepreneurial experience and extensive network within the VC community. -YC as a Mark of Quality: Gabriel compares YC to a Michelin star rating for restaurants, highlighting the rigorous vetting process and high-quality founders that emerge from the program. -The Silicon Valley Advantage: Despite the rise of European startups, Gabriel argues that Silicon Valley remains the epicenter of innovation, and Y Combinator is the gold standard for early-stage tech companies. -The AI Boom: While acknowledging the increasing presence of AI startups within YC, Gabriel emphasizes the importance of filtering and selection, ensuring that Lobster Capital's portfolio encompasses a diverse range of promising ventures. EPISODE IN A GLANCE 00:00 Intro 00:20 Founding Story of Lobster Capital 01:13 Journey to Silicon Valley and Y Combinator 01:36 Challenges and Strategies in Y Combinator Investing 02:14 Building Lobster Capital's Brand and Fund 03:02 Focus on YC Startups and Unicorns 05:19 Gaining Access to YC Demo Day 06:46 Early Successes and Building Reputation 07:33 Providing Value Beyond Capital 14:32 Evaluating Startups at YC Demo Day 20:35 Evaluating Startup Growth Strategies 21:44 The Relevance of YC in 2024 22:44 YC's Shift and New Leadership 26:12 The AI Emphasis at YC 30:06 Investing in US vs. European Startups 31:48 The Future of European Startups 38:10 The Value Proposition of YC 42:18 The Michelin Star of Startup Investing ABOUT GABRIEL JARROSSON Gabriel Jarrosson is a seasoned investor and entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in the startup space and the General Partner of Lobster Capital. He has invested over $25M in Y Combinator startups. Having sold three of his own startups, he shares his expertise in his books "My Investor Secrets" and "Investing in Startups: x100 or Nothing." CONNECT WITH GABRIEL JARROSSON YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@lobstercapital Website → https://www.lobstercap.com/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrieljarrosson/ Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/lobstercapital/ Tiktok → https://www.tiktok.com/@lobstercapital Stay ahead of the game with the latest startup insights. Subscribe to our newsletter for startup updates and actionable insights → https://lobstercap.ck.page/c34c61a155

Are you a contractor working overseas? How do you navigate the complexities of cross-border payments? In this episode of Lobster Talks, host Gabriel Jarrosson dives into the world of cross-border payments with Eduardo de Leon, co-founder and Head of Product at Coba, a Y Combinator-backed fintech startup. Eduardo shares his journey from a software development background to launching Coba, a platform designed to empower contractors in Latin America by providing access to the US banking system and simplifying financial transactions between the US and Mexico. Eduardo reveals the origins of Coba, initially aimed at connecting talent with US companies. Through extensive user interviews, they uncovered a critical pain point: the need for financial services tailored to cross-border workers. This realization led to a pivotal shift in their business model, propelling them into the fintech industry and ultimately leading to their acceptance into Y Combinator. Eduardo talks about the challenges and opportunities of cross-border payments, the importance of understanding local markets, and how Coba is leveraging technology to bridge the gap between different economies. He also shares insights on the decision-making process as a co-founder, the role of crypto in cross-border transactions, and the valuable lessons learned from their Y Combinator experience. EPISODE IN A GLANCE - Eduardo's Background and the Inspiration Behind Coba - Coba's Platform and Services for Contractors in Latin America - Pivoting the Business Model and Decision-Making as Co-Founders - The Cross-Border Payments Landscape and Focusing on the US-Mexico Corridor - Crypto's Role in Cross-Border Payments and Potential Integration with Coba - Coba's Experience with Y Combinator and Lessons Learned - Future Plans for Coba and Expanding Services - Book Recommendations: 'Hackers & Painters' and 'The Mythical Man-Month' ABOUT EDUARDO LOPEZ DE LEON Co-founder & Head of Product @ Coba. Previously to founding Coba.ai, Eduardo started IcaliaLabs.com operating from LatAm and working with US clients. He had the opportunity to work with fast-growing startups, corporates such as IBM, and big software factories such as Infosys. CS professor of Monterrey Tech. CONNECT WITH EDUARDO & COBA Website → https://coba.ai/ Eduardo's Website → https://edolopez.ai LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/elopezdeleon/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/company/cobaremote X/Twitter → https://x.com/edolopez X/Twitter → https://x.com/cobaremote YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@cobaremote Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/edolopez.io GRAB THE BOOKS EDUARDO RECOMMENDS: -Paul Graham's Hackers & Painters: Big Ideas from the Computer Age (https://a.co/d/3nccG3N) -Fred Brooks' The Mythical Man-Month (https://a.co/d/ewA2lFy) ABOUT GABRIEL JARROSSON Gabriel Jarrosson is a seasoned investor and entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in the startup space and the General Partner of Lobster Capital. He has invested over $25M in Y Combinator startups. Having sold three of his own startups, he shares his expertise in his books "My Investor Secrets" and "Investing in Startups: x100 or Nothing." CONNECT WITH GABRIEL JARROSSON YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@lobstercapital Website → https://www.lobstercap.com/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrieljarrosson/ Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/lobstercapital/ Tiktok → https://www.tiktok.com/@lobstercapital Stay ahead of the game with the latest startup insights. Subscribe to our newsletter for startup updates and actionable insights → https://lobstercap.ck.page/c34c61a155

Did you know that the US spent $200 billion on new manufacturing construction in 2023 alone? The manufacturing industry is booming, but it faces challenges in productivity and cost. That's where Dime comes in. In this episode of Lobster Talks, host Gabriel Jarrosson interviews Ashish Bajaj, co-founder of Dime, a startup revolutionizing how manufacturers manage their factories. Born and raised in Detroit, Ashish's unique background in finance and deep ties to the manufacturing industry led him to create Dime, a platform designed to modernize and streamline production processes. Ashish discusses the challenges manufacturers face with outdated software and manual processes, particularly in production scheduling and tracking. He shares how Dime's central nervous system for factories is solving these problems by automating these tasks, improving efficiency, and ultimately boosting productivity. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of technology and manufacturing, the challenges faced by American manufacturers, and how startups like Dime are leading the charge to modernize the industry. EPISODE IN A GLANCE -The Origin Story of Dime and the Manufacturing Landscape -The Growth of Manufacturing in the US and Dime's Role -What Dime Does and How It's Different from Other Solutions -The State of Manufacturing in China and the Importance of Productivity -Dime's Journey After Y Combinator and the Importance of Founder Mentality -The Psychology of Success in Startups -The Impact of Y Combinator on Founders -Dime's sales strategy and the importance of focusing on fundamentals of startup success -The challenges and opportunities of manufacturing in the US -Choosing the Right Headquarters -Staying Ahead in Manufacturing Tech -Book Recommendation: Principles by Ray Dalio -How to Connect with Dime ABOUT ASHISH BAJAJ Ashish is a co-founder @ Dime. He's a passionate Detroiter excited about building the tools that power the American Manufacturing renaissance. Before Dime, Ashish led the business operations and finance functions at a Series B Ghost Kitchen aggregator. Before that, he spent four years in finance, first as an Investment Banker at Rothschild, and then as an Investor at TPG. CONNECT WITH ASHISH BAJAJ Website → https://www.getdime.io/ LinkedIn → https://linkedin.com/in/ashish-bajaj1 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/company/dime-manufacturing/ GRAB THE BOOK ASHISH RECOMMENDS → Principles by Ray Dalio, https://www.principles.com/ ABOUT GABRIEL JARROSSON Gabriel Jarrosson is a seasoned investor and entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in the startup space and the General Partner of Lobster Capital. He has invested over $25M in Y Combinator startups. Having sold three of his own startups, he shares his expertise in his books "My Investor Secrets" and "Investing in Startups: x100 or Nothing." CONNECT WITH GABRIEL JARROSSON YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@lobstercapital Website → https://www.lobstercap.com/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrieljarrosson/ Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/lobstercapital/ Tiktok → https://www.tiktok.com/@lobstercapital Stay ahead of the game with the latest startup insights. Subscribe to our newsletter for startup updates and actionable insights → https://lobstercap.ck.page/c34c61a155

Did you know that changing a Twitter notification from "Elon tweeted" to "Elon just tweeted" once led to a gain of 800,000 users? In this episode of The Lobster Talks by Lobster Capital, host Gabriel Jarrosson interviews Neha Mittal, founder and CEO of YCombinator-backed Just Words. Neha shares her journey from leading growth at Twitter and Pinterest to starting her own company focused on AI-powered personalized messaging. She reveals how a simple copy change experiment at Twitter sparked the idea for Just Words and discusses the challenges she faced, including a co-founder breakup mid-Y Combinator. Neha explains how Just Words differs from existing A/B testing tools and email service providers by focusing on user-centricity and infinite content testing. She also provides insights into the company's future vision of hyper-personalized communication and the role of AI in revolutionizing marketing. EPISODE IN A GLANCE -Meet Neha Mittal: Founder of Just Words -The Birth of Just Words: From Twitter to Pinterest -How Just Words Stands Out in a Crowded Market -Building the Future: Products and Vision of Just Words -Collaborating with Big Names: Grammarly and BeReal -Navigating Co-Founder Breakups: Lessons Learned -Finding the Right Co-Founder: Trust and Vision -Advice for Solo Founders: Trust Your Gut -Intuition in Business -Fundraising Challenges and Resilience -The Impact of YC and Community Support -Vision for Just Words -Book Recommendation → The Tao of Pooh Paperback by Benjamin Hoff ABOUT NEHA MITTAL Neha Mittal is the CEO & Co-founder of just words. She was the head of product for Retention & Growth at Pinterest and at Twitter. She also co-founded CityStructure and was the founding engineer at Sensorflow. She has also held product & engineering roles at the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative and Goldman Sachs. CONNECT WITH NEHA MITTAL Website → https://justwords.ai LinkedIn → https://linkedin.com/in/neha01mittal LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/company/justwordsai/ GRAB THE BOOK NEHA RECOMMENDS: The Tao of Pooh Paperback by Benjamin Hoff → https://a.co/d/dNPfw8G ABOUT GABRIEL JARROSSON Gabriel Jarrosson is a seasoned investor and entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in the startup space and the General Partner of Lobster Capital. He has invested over $25M in Y Combinator startups. Having sold three of his own startups, he shares his expertise in his books "My Investor Secrets" and "Investing in Startups: x100 or Nothing." CONNECT WITH GABRIEL JARROSSON YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@lobstercapital Website → https://www.lobstercap.com/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrieljarrosson/ Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/lobstercapital/ Tiktok → https://www.tiktok.com/@lobstercapital Stay ahead of the game with the latest startup insights. Subscribe to our newsletter for startup updates and actionable insights → https://lobstercap.ck.page/c34c61a155

What if mining for valuable minerals could be done in space with a smaller environmental impact and at a lower cost? In this episode of The Lobster Talks by Lobster Capital, Gabriel Jarrosson interviews Matt Gialich, the founder and CEO of AstroForge, a company focused on mining asteroids to extract valuable minerals in space at a lower cost and smaller carbon footprint than the current mining methods. Matt shares his journey from working at Bird Rides and the Jet Propulsion Lab to founding AstroForge, inspired by the challenges of sourcing platinum for microchips and the limitations of traditional space exploration. Matt discusses AstroForge's mission to make space resources accessible on Earth, revolutionize mining practices, and contribute to a cleaner economic impact. AstroForge's upcoming mission in November will be the first commercial deep space mission to identify a metallic asteroid, paving the way for a new era of space resource utilization. With a focus on speed, innovation, and environmental responsibility, AstroForge is poised to become a leader in the emerging field of asteroid mining. EPISODE IN A GLANCE -Introduction to Matt Gialich, CEO of AstroForge -AstroForge's Mission and Potential Uses for Mined Metals -Matt's journey from Bird Rides and JPL to founding AstroForge -The potential size and impact of AstroForge on the global mining industry and the environment -The "idiot rule" and AstroForge's innovative approach to cost reduction -The importance of speed in AstroForge's operations and how it's embedded in their team culture -The hardest part of asteroid mining and AstroForge's focus on developing refinery technology -How AstroForge selects target asteroids, prioritizing ore quality over size -Hiring challenges and the importance of passion and ownership within the AstroForge team -Details about AstroForge's upcoming November launch and the goals of the mission -Balancing fundraising and CEO responsibilities, the challenges Matt faces -Matt's key takeaway from Y Combinator and the importance of focusing on customers -Matt's unique perspective on the impact of books and quotes on his life ABOUT MATT GIALICH Matt Gialich is the CEO of AstroForge. An asteroid mining company that is the first company to have a commercial deep space mission. CONNECT WITH MATT GIALICH Website → https://www.astroforge.io/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-gialich/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/company/astroforge/ Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/astroforge.io/ X/Twitter → https://x.com/astroforge Email → [email protected] ABOUT GABRIEL JARROSSON Gabriel Jarrosson is a seasoned investor and entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in the startup space and the General Partner of Lobster Capital. He has invested over $25M in Y Combinator startups. Having sold three of his own startups, he shares his expertise in his books "My Investor Secrets" and "Investing in Startups: x100 or Nothing." CONNECT WITH GABRIEL JARROSSON YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@lobstercapital Website → https://www.lobstercap.com/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrieljarrosson/ Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/lobstercapital/ Tiktok → https://www.tiktok.com/@lobstercapital Stay ahead of the game with the latest startup insights. Subscribe to our newsletter for startup updates and actionable insights → https://lobstercap.ck.page/c34c61a155

Is FinTech dead? With the rise of AI and recent industry shakeups, many are asking this question. But what if the most exciting days of FinTech are still ahead? In this episode of Lobster Talks, host Gabriel Jarrosson interviews Daniel Kivatinos, a serial entrepreneur who has successfully navigated the highs and lows of the startup world. Daniel shares the story of building DrChrono, his first company, into a top 1% YC exit, and his insights on why he's now diving back into the complex and exciting world of FinTech with his new venture, JustPaid.io. The conversation dives into Daniel's experiences with Y Combinator, both in its early days and in its current, more structured form. He shares valuable advice on building a strong company culture, the importance of rapid iteration, and the crucial role of delegation in scaling a business. Daniel also discusses the evolving landscape of FinTech, the challenges and opportunities it presents, and why he believes it remains a vital industry with immense potential for disruption. Join us as we dive into the future of FinTech, the power of Y Combinator community, and the lessons learned from building a top 1% YC exit. EPISODE IN A GLANCE - The Current State of FinTech and Opportunities for Disruption - Daniel's Perspective on Building a Company for the Long Haul - The Story of DrChrono's Journey to a Top 1% YC Exit - Why Y Combinator was Instrumental in DrChrono's Success - The Power of Hacker News and Early YC Community - The Evolution of YC and Its Modern Tools - Reconnecting with YC: A Second-Time Founder’s Perspective - The Value of Founder-to-Founder Support - Lobster Capital's Investment Thesis and Top 1% YC Exit - The Journey and Challenges of Building DrChrono - Scaling and Delegating for Success - Introducing JustPaid.io: Revolutionizing Revenue Collection - The Importance of Company Culture and Long-Term Vision - Closing Thoughts and Book Recommendations ABOUT DANIEL KIVATINOS Daniel is the cofounder and CEO of JustPaid.io (Y Combinator 2023) and cofounder and former COO of DrChrono (Y Combinator 2011, a top 1% YC exit). CONNECT WITH DANIEL Website → https://www.justpaid.io/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/kivatinos/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/company/justpaid/ GRAB THE BOOKS OF JIM COLLINS, THE AUTHOR DANIEL RECOMMENDS → https://www.jimcollins.com/books.html ABOUT GABRIEL JARROSSON Gabriel Jarrosson is a seasoned investor and entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in the startup space and the General Partner of Lobster Capital. He has invested over $25M in Y Combinator startups. Having sold three of his own startups, he shares his expertise in his books "My Investor Secrets" and "Investing in Startups: x100 or Nothing." CONNECT WITH GABRIEL JARROSSON YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@lobstercapital Website → https://www.lobstercap.com/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrieljarrosson/ Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/lobstercapital/ Tiktok → https://www.tiktok.com/@lobstercapital Stay ahead of the game with the latest startup insights. Subscribe to our newsletter for startup updates and actionable insights → https://lobstercap.ck.page/c34c61a155

Have you ever considered pivoting your startup? What if you didn't even have a new idea lined up? In this episode of The Lobster Talks by Lobster Capital, we are joined by Ankur Rustagi, a serial entrepreneur with a background in trust and safety at tech giants like Facebook and Roblox. He founded Sero AI, a trust and safety platform, and then pivoted to Saatvy, a wellness platform focused on chronic conditions, after just ten months. This episode dives into Ankur's journey, exploring the challenges of building and selling a B2B SaaS solution in the trust and safety space, and the pivotal decision to change course. He shares his internal struggle, the impact on his co-founder, and the support he received from Y Combinator and investors. Ankur then reveals the unexpected path that led him to Saatvy, driven by a personal experience with chronic pain and a growing belief in the power of alternative medicine, particularly Ayurveda. Listen to this episode and gain valuable insights into the realities of startup pivoting, the importance of staying true to your convictions, and the potential for success in unexpected corners of the market. EPISODE IN A GLANCE -The Sero AI Journey: Ankur's motivation for founding Sero AI, aiming to improve trust and safety in the tech world -Challenges with Sero AI: Enterprise Sales and Internal Struggles -The Decision to Pivot: Ankur reveals the internal struggle and the decision to pivot away from Sero AI -The Emotional Journey: Dealing with Uncertainty and Maintaining Energy -Investor Conversations: How Ankur Communicated the Pivot to His Investors -The Birth of Saatvy: The Path from LLM Safety to Wellness -Saatvy's Approach: Authentic Ayurvedic Practitioners and Personalized Care -Co-Founder Dynamics: Navigating Tala's Departure and Maintaining a Positive Relationship -The Future of Saatvy: Raising Awareness and Expanding Access to Ayurvedic Care ABOUT ANKUR RUSTAGI Founder of Saatvy, whose mission is to take Ayurveda to 100M+ people with chronic conditions. Previously, Ankur empowered teams at Meta, Roblox and eBay to build AI solutions for elections and child safety. CONNECT WITH ANKUR RUSTAGI Website → https://saatvy.com LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/company/saatvy LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/anrustagi ABOUT GABRIEL JARROSSON Gabriel Jarrosson is a seasoned investor and entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in the startup space and the General Partner of Lobster Capital. He has invested over $25M in Y Combinator startups. Having sold three of his own startups, he shares his expertise in his books "My Investor Secrets" and "Investing in Startups: x100 or Nothing." CONNECT WITH GABRIEL JARROSSON YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@lobstercapital Website → https://www.lobstercap.com/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrieljarrosson/ Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/lobstercapital/ Tiktok → https://www.tiktok.com/@lobstercapital Stay ahead of the game with the latest startup insights. Subscribe to our newsletter for startup updates and actionable insights → https://lobstercap.ck.page/c34c61a155

What if you rapidly iterate and test flight software for rockets, drones, or satellites just like game developers do? In this episode of The Lobster Talks Podcast by Lobster Capital, we sit down with Daniel Driscoll, a former military officer turned software engineer, who is the CEO and co-founder of Elodin. Elodin is on a mission to revolutionize the aerospace industry by providing a flight software development platform that streamlines and accelerates the process of building, testing, and deploying software for everything that flies – from drones and missiles to satellites. Dan's journey is nothing short of fascinating. From his time at West Point and serving in Iraq to working at Electronic Arts (on the Sims 4!) and Salesforce, his diverse experiences have shaped his leadership style and fueled his passion for innovation. Drawing inspiration from the Unreal Engine used in game development, Elodin aims to be the go-to platform for aerospace engineers. It enables rapid iteration, collaboration, and high-fidelity simulation, making it easier and faster for companies of all sizes to develop cutting-edge flight software. With Elodin, the dream of space exploration is becoming more accessible than ever before. EPISODE IN A GLANCE -Dan's Background: Military, Gaming (Sims 4!), and Salesforce -Elodin's Mission: The 'Unreal Engine' for Aerospace -The Origin Story: From a Ukrainian Team Building Rockets to Partnering with AstroForge -Disrupting the Incumbents: How Elodin is Changing the Aerospace Development Culture -The Space Renaissance: Elodin's Role in the New Wave of Space Exploration -Exciting Upcoming Projects: Elodin's Software in Space by the End of the Year! -Advice for Founders: How to Identify and Solve Problems in Established Industries -Fundraising: The Pros and Cons of a 'Party Round' (and Why Elodin Chose It) -The Future of Elodin: Partnerships, Ambitious Goals, and a Focus on Making Space Accessible -Dan's Book Recommendation: 'Leaders Eat Last' by Simon Sinek ABOUT DANIEL DRISCOLL Daniel Driscoll is an accomplished leader with a robust software engineering and military leadership background. As the CEO and Co-founder of Elodin, he spearheads the development of innovative flight software platforms. Previously, he owned Tigris Digital, a veteran-owned tech business, and held key roles at M10, BitGo, RealtyShares, Salesforce, and Electronic Arts. Daniel holds a Master of Entertainment Technology from Carnegie Mellon University and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the United States Military Academy at West Point. He is skilled in people leadership & ambitious thinking. CONNECT WITH DANIEL DRISCOLL Website → https://elodin.systems LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/company/elodin-systems-inc LinkedIn → https://linkedin.com/in/x46085 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/elodin.systems/ YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@elodin-sys X/Twitter → https://twitter.com/Elodinsystems GRAB THE BOOK DANIEL RECOMMENDS → Leaders Eat Last, by Simon Sinek, https://simonsinek.com/books/leaders-eat-last/ ABOUT GABRIEL JARROSSON Gabriel Jarrosson is a seasoned investor and entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in the startup space and the General Partner of Lobster Capital. He has invested over $25M in Y Combinator startups. Having sold three of his own startups, he shares his expertise in his books "My Investor Secrets" and "Investing in Startups: x100 or Nothing." CONNECT WITH GABRIEL JARROSSON YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@lobstercapital Website → https://www.lobstercap.com/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrieljarrosson/ Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/lobstercapital/ Stay ahead of the game with the latest startup insights. Subscribe to our newsletter for startup updates and actionable insights → https://lobstercap.ck.page/c34c61a155

Overwhelmed by the back-and-forth negotiations and complexities of managing contracts when closing deals? In this episode of Lobster Talks, host Gabriel Jarrosson dives deep into the world of startup contracts with Jake Stein, co-founder and CEO of Common Paper. Jake, a seasoned entrepreneur with two successful exits under his belt, candidly shares the challenges he faced with contract management in his previous ventures, which ultimately led him to create Common Paper. Jake unveils his company's unique approach: standardized contracts, available for free through an open-source model, coupled with powerful software that automates the entire process, from negotiation to payment. Gabriel, an investor himself, and Jake discuss the importance of building optionality into your business, both in terms of fundraising and selling. The conversation highlights the value of cultivating relationships with potential acquirers and understanding investor priorities. Jake also shares his perspective on the benefits of Y Combinator, particularly for fundraising and accessing a network of experienced entrepreneurs. Get an insider's look at the benefits of Y Combinator and learn how Jake's journey can help you navigate your own startup path. Whether you're battling contract chaos or seeking wisdom from a successful founder, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Tune in now to transform your approach to startup legalities and gain a competitive edge. EPISODE IN A GLANCE -Meet Jake Stein and Discover the Story Behind Common Paper – Simplifying Startup Contracts -How Common Paper is Revolutionizing Startup Legal Agreements with Standardization & Automation -The Power of APIs in Modern Contract Management – A Revolution in Legal Tech -Niche Focus – Why Common Paper Specializes in B2B Software Agreements -Early Lessons from a Startup Founder – Why Immediate Value is Key to Success -The Unique Value of Common Paper – Open Source, Automated Contracts & Powerful Integrations -Building a Sustainable Open Source Business – The Common Paper Revenue Model -Beyond Fundraising – How Y Combinator Accelerates Startup Growth -Exit Strategies for Startups – Leveraging Relationships & Creating Optionality When Selling Your Business -Charlie Munger's Wisdom for Entrepreneurs – The Power of Deserving What You Want -The Future of Common Paper: AI and Contract Optimization ABOUT JAKE STEIN Jake Stein is co-founder and CEO of Common Paper. Previously, he was co-founder of RJMetrics (acquired by Magento, then Adobe) and Stitch (acquired by Talend). Before RJMetrics, Jake worked in venture capital, started a landscaping business in high school, and was the 44th-ranked table tennis player under 21 in New Jersey; achievements of which he is equally proud. CONNECT WITH JAKE STEIN Website → https://commonpaper.com/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakestein/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/company/common-paper/ Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/jakestein X/Twitter → https://x.com/jakestein X/Twitter → https://x.com/UseCommonPaper ABOUT GABRIEL JARROSSON Gabriel Jarrosson is a seasoned investor and entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in the startup space and the General Partner of Lobster Capital. He has invested over $25M in Y Combinator startups. Having sold three of his own startups, he shares his expertise in his books "My Investor Secrets" and "Investing in Startups: x100 or Nothing." CONNECT WITH GABRIEL JARROSSON YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@lobstercapital Website → https://www.lobstercap.com/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrieljarrosson/ Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/lobstercapital/ Stay ahead of the game with the latest startup insights. Subscribe to our newsletter for startup updates and actionable insights → https://lobstercap.ck.page/c34c61a155

As AI models become more powerful and complex, how can startups accurately measure and monetize their usage? In this episode, Gabriel Jarrosson sits down with Peter Marton, co-founder and CEO of OpenMeter, to discuss how his company is revolutionizing the way AI startups bill their customers. OpenMeter provides an observability platform that enables usage-based billing for AI models, allowing companies to charge based on actual resource consumption rather than flat rates or estimates. Peter shares his journey from working at Uber to founding OpenMeter, the challenges they faced in building a scalable and accurate metering solution, and the impact their technology is having on the AI industry. EPISODE IN A GLANCE -Meet Peter Marton, OpenMeter Co-founder & CEO -Peter Marton's Journey: From Netflix to Stripe to OpenMeter -What is OpenMeter? Solving the Challenges of Usage-Based Billing -The Pain Points of Usage-Based Billing: A Developer's Perspective -OpenMeter's Evolution: From End-to-End Solutions to Core Metering -OpenMeter: Open Source for Transparency & Monetization -AI Integration: OpenMeter's Role in Cost Management for AI Companies -Understanding Metering: Real-Time, Auditable, and Persistent -From Idea to Funding: OpenMeter's Journey Through Y Combinator -Launching OpenMeter: Building Traction and Fundraising -From Hungary to Silicon Valley: Peter Marton's Personal Story -Building a Global Team: Managing Teams Across Time Zones -Fundraising Beyond Y Combinator: Securing Funding with Traction -The Power of Y Combinator: Beyond Demo Day Fundraising -OpenMeter's Future: Standardizing Metering and Future Goals ABOUT PETER MARTON Peter is the CEO and Co-founder of OpenMeter. With a background in observability and monetization, he previously worked on Netflix’s serverless infrastructure and Stripe’s usage and cost platform and co-founded an APM startup. CONNECT WITH PETER Website → https://openmeter.io/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/petermarton/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/company/openmeter YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbZ3O0-siPWXxiyfik7xJ_w X/Twitter → https://twitter.com/openmeter GRAB THE BOOK PETER RECOMMENDS → https://a.co/d/bbn82Ab The Developer Facing Startup: Alchemist Accelerator’s go-to-market playbook for early-stage developer-facing startups by Adam Frankl ABOUT GABRIEL JARROSSON Gabriel Jarrosson is a seasoned investor and entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in the startup space and the General Partner of Lobster Capital. He has invested over $25M in Y Combinator startups. Having sold three of his own startups, he shares his expertise in his books "My Investor Secrets" and "Investing in Startups: x100 or Nothing." CONNECT WITH GABRIEL JARROSSON YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@lobstercapital Website → https://www.lobstercap.com/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrieljarrosson/ Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/lobstercapital/ Stay ahead of the game with the latest startup insights. Subscribe to our newsletter for startup updates and actionable insights → https://lobstercap.ck.page/c34c61a155