AI Innovators

Rob May & HalfCourt Ventures
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AI Innovators

AI Innovators Podcast interviews technical leaders, investors, and business executives about the impact AI is having on business models, markets, products, and consumer behavior. We investigate impacts on public and private markets, from startups, to large companies like Amazon, Google, and Facebook. If you invest at any level and are looking to understand how AI will impact your world, please subscribe.Presented by HalfCourt Ventures

  1. JAN 22

    Future-Proofing Video Editing with Joseph Jorgensen of Capsule

    Welcome to another episode of the AI Innovators Podcast! I'm your host, Rob May, and in today's episode, In today's episode, our distinguished guest is Joseph Jorgensen, the founder of Capsule Video. Join us as Joseph shares the story behind Capsule, a ground-breaking AI-powered video editing platform designed to make video creation easier for businesses, especially large enterprises. From the challenges of video content creation to the innovative ways Capsule leverages AI to streamline the editing process, Joseph provides invaluable insights into the dynamic intersection of technology and business. AI Innovators Podcast is sponsored by Half Court Ventures and the Investing in AI newsletter, this episode promises to provide a wealth of knowledge for anyone interested in the cutting-edge developments in AI and their real-world applications. Jorgensen provides a candid look into their strategic approach of integrating multiple AI models while maintaining the flexibility to adapt to rapidly evolving technology. Key highlights include: - How Capsule Video leverages AI to simplify video editing processes - Their strategic focus on enterprise clients and brand consistency - The challenges and solutions in implementing AI models effectively - Practical insights into product development in the fast-moving AI landscape This conversation is especially relevant for entrepreneurs, tech professionals, and anyone interested in the practical applications of AI in content creation. Jorgensen's parting wisdom about balancing celebration of achievements while maintaining forward momentum offers valuable perspective for aspiring business leaders. Whether you're a startup founder, AI enthusiast, or business professional looking to understand the future of video content creation, this episode provides actionable insights and thought-provoking discussion about the role of AI in transforming traditional industries. Joseph Jorgensen's Links (https://capsule.video/) (Linkedin) (Joseph's Linkedin) 0:00:02 - Joseph Jorgensen introduces their platform philosophy. 0:00:13 - Rob May's podcast introduction and welcome. 0:00:48 - Joseph Jorgensen's greeting. 0:01:01 - Beginning of founding story discussion for Capsule. 0:03:09 - Discussion of AI video editing begins. 0:05:20 - Discussion about AI implementation strategy. 0:07:26 - Transition to business and go-to-market discussion. 0:09:12 - Sponsorship break (Half Court Ventures and Investing in AI newsletter). 0:09:55 - Discussion of AI model limitations and workarounds. 0:13:09 - Product strategy discussion in rapidly changing AI landscape. 0:15:11 - Discussion of problems they wish others would solve. 0:17:24 - Career advice segment begins. 0:19:38 - Closing remarks. 0:19:58 - Outro and subscription reminder.

    20 min

  2. 12/31/2024

    Predicting AI Innovations and Key Players in 2025 with Half Court Ventures Team

    Welcome to another episode of the AI Innovators Podcast! I'm your host, Rob May, and in today's episode, we're wrapping up the year with a bang by looking ahead to AI in 2025. I've gathered a panel of AI experts from Half Court Ventures to discuss the current landscape, future trends, and the evolving challenges and opportunities in the AI sphere. AI Innovators Podcast is sponsored by Half Court Ventures and the Investing in AI newsletter, this episode promises to provide a wealth of knowledge for anyone interested in the cutting-edge developments in AI and their real-world applications. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to be inspired by the insights of the Half Court Ventures Team - Byron Galbraith, George Lin, and Eric Koziol Episode Highlights: OpenAI's Market Position: Byron Galbraith, George Lin, and Eric Koziol analyze whether OpenAI remains the frontrunner in the AI industry amidst rising competition, legal challenges from Elon Musk, and varying business models.Big Tech's Dominance: We dive deep into the capabilities and future potential of major companies like Google, Nvidia, Meta, and Apple. With insights into compute power, custom chips, and the scaling of AI hardware, our panelists George Lin and Byron Galbraith provide a comprehensive outlook.Next-Gen AI Architectures: George Lin introduces his prediction on the shift beyond transformer architectures, citing innovative models like mamba and rwkv. The panel discusses how these could revolutionize AI by extending context and efficiency.Generative Media Breakthroughs: Byron Galbraith brings to light the impact of Flux models on the generative media space, the quest to reduce inference costs, and the shifting landscape of local versus cloud-based model training.Custom Software Development with AI: Eric Koziol delves into the notion of personalized software, where the cost of software development drops, enabling bespoke applications tailored to specific business processes. This segment examines both the benefits and potential drawbacks of this democratization. Thanks for tuning in to the AI Innovators Podcast. Stay ahead of the curve by subscribing, and don't miss out on our next deep dive into AI trends and strategies! 0:00:50 - Addressing the status of OpenAI and competitive threats. 0:01:25 - Byron Galbraith on OpenAI's market position and technical challenges. 0:02:17 - Eric Koziol's take on OpenAI's market strength and technical weaknesses. 0:02:40 - George Lin's insights on OpenAI's expanded focus and business strategy. 0:03:38 - Opinions on changing from startup focus to big companies in AI. 0:04:24 - Eric Koziol highlighting Google's investments in energy and compute capacity. 0:05:17 - George Lin talks about Google's internal resources and AI integration. 0:06:06 - George Lin mentions Facebook's advantages concerning human-vetted training data. 0:06:24 - Byron Galbraith supports Google and Meta's positions in the AI space. 0:07:54 - Rob May suggests potential Apple advantages in AI. 0:08:30 - Eric Koziol comments on Apple's potential challenges in AI innovation. 0:08:48 - George Lin discusses Apple's MLX framework and potential in AI. 0:09:35 - Byron Galbraith on benchmarking Apple processors for AI...

    25 min

  3. 11/27/2024

    Finding the Next Big AI Success with Kevin Novak

    Welcome to another exciting episode of the AI Innovators Podcast! I'm your host, Rob May, and today we have a truly special guest joining us: Kevin Novak. Kevin is a former data scientist at Uber and now a venture capitalist with Rackhouse VC. In this episode, we dive deep into fascinating topics surrounding the transformative power of AI in early-stage businesses, the evolving landscape of data and infrastructure, and the nuances of AI investment strategies. Episode Highlights: Kevin delves into the shift from viewing data as a byproduct to recognizing its critical role in AI systems, and the implications of increasing AI demands on data centers and power capacity.We discuss the performance dynamics of large language models versus small, specialized AI models, and their future potential, including mobile integration.Kevin shares valuable insights into the unpredictable impacts of AI across various industries, the importance of continuous experimentation, and the concept of Harvard's "jagged frontier."We explore the strategic challenges and opportunities in AI-focused venture capital, Kevin's approach to early-stage investments, and the essential traits of successful startup teams.Kevin and I also touch upon the importance of deep customer relationships, managing AI’s operational complexities, and the evolving role of AI in enhancing current business metrics. Sponsored by Half Court Ventures and the Investing in AI newsletter, this episode promises to provide a wealth of knowledge for anyone interested in the cutting-edge developments in AI and their real-world applications. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to be inspired by the insights of Kevin Novak on the AI Innovators Podcast. Kevin Novak's (rackhouse.vc/) (Kevin's Linkedin) Rob's Links ( halfcourt.vc ) ( Rob AI Newsletter ) 01:00 - Determining genuine AI companies from buzzword claims. 06:40 - Focus on fundamentals, proprietary data, experienced AI team. 11:11 - Large language models grow with more resources. 13:00 - Limitations challenge scaling large language models. 16:52 - Balancing cost, profitability, and AI advancement challenges. 20:52 - Companies often dictate customer roles, causing insecurity. 22:44 - Adapting workflows to technology shifts drives success. 26:23 - Diligence pays off despite emotional misalignment. 29:27 - Invest globally, focus: complete businesses, max $2M.

    31 min

  4. 11/20/2024

    Boosting Underwriter Productivity with Alex Schmelkin of Sixfold AI

    Welcome to another exciting episode of the AI Innovators Podcast! I'm your host, Rob May, and today we're diving into a truly unique domain as we explore the intersection of AI and the insurance industry. Our guest is Alex Schmelkin, CEO of Sixfold AI, a company that's revolutionizing how insurance companies underwrite policies. In this episode, Alex gives us an insider look at the traditional human-led underwriting process and how Sixfold AI is reshaping this landscape with advanced AI technology. We discuss the challenges and opportunities in automating underwriting, the impressive ROI their solutions bring, and the intricacies of adapting AI across different insurance types. Alex shares valuable insights into the decision-making journey of choosing to enable traditional insurance carriers rather than becoming one, and his perspective on the future of AI insurance. We also touch on the emerging field of AI model insurance and the critical role of document ingestion in their AI tech stack. Get ready to learn from Alex’s vast experience and gain practical advice that every entrepreneur and AI enthusiast can apply. Whether you're in the insurance industry or simply fascinated by AI's transformative power, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways. So, tune in and join us on this deep dive into the future of AI in insurance! Alex Schmelkin's Links ( https://sixfold.ai/) (Linkedin) (Alex's Linkedin) Rob's Links ( halfcourt.vc ) ( Rob AI Newsletter ) 01:00 - Underwriters assess risk using vast data volumes. 04:54 - AI evaluates insurance applications for underwriting decisions. 08:14 - Innovators podcast by Half Court Ventures, AI. 11:38 - Enhancing insurance with advanced underwriting models. 15:16 - AI exclusions in insurance policies raise concerns. 17:44 - Reinsurance differs between life and PNC sectors. 21:39 - Focus on your core strength and excel. 23:12 - Target buyer's conference indicates optimal selling approach.

    24 min

  5. 11/14/2024

    Predictive Analytics and AI with Pawel Zimoch of Featrix.AI

    Welcome back to another episode of AI Innovators with Rob May, the podcast that deep dives into how AI is reshaping industries and the groundbreaking minds behind it. In today's episode, we're joined by Pawel Zimoch, co-founder of Featrix AI, a company known for pioneering vectorization solutions for the enterprise. As we explore the world of vectors and embeddings, Pawel unpacks the significance of data predictability and why some data sets work better with AI than others. We'll also delve into the evolution of Featrix, from its founding story to its innovative strides in custom embeddings and multi-modal data analysis. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a data scientist, or simply curious about the future of AI, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss. Tune in for a fascinating conversation on the complexities, challenges, and exciting advancements in the realm of AI. Pawel Zimoch's Links ( Featrix.ai ) (Linkedin) ( Featrix) Rob's Links ( halfcourt.vc ) ( Rob AI Newsletter ) 00:00 - Embeddings use cosine similarity for comparative analysis. 04:57 - Predictive data value varies; feature engineering necessary. 06:28 - Efficient AI system predicts project viability quickly. 12:04 - Human judgment and problem-solving skills prevail. 13:59 - Learning computer science is essential for understanding AI. 16:26 - Managing models requires significant context from data scientists. 22:28 - Connect with others for broader learning perspectives. 23:28 - Success in entrepreneurship relies on understanding people.

    26 min

  6. 10/31/2024

    Unlocking New Frontiers with Generative AI with Kojo Osei

    Welcome to another exciting episode of AI Innovators with Rob May! In today's episode, we are thrilled to have Kojo Asai from Matrix Capital as our guest. Kojo dives deep into his intriguing thesis on why inference costs are plummeting towards zero and its massive implications for the AI industry. We’ll explore how dropping costs can unlock groundbreaking applications, revolutionize generative media, and shape the future of AI. Kojo also shares his insights on the hottest layers in the AI stack, evaluates the potential of companies like OpenAI, and offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors. Plus, stay tuned for a speed round where Kojo gives his buy or sell verdict on emerging AI trends. Whether you're an AI enthusiast, investor, or entrepreneur, this episode is packed with thought-provoking discussions and valuable insights you won't want to miss. Let's dive in! Kojo Osei's Links ( Kojo's Blog ) ( Matrix VC ) ( Kojo Linkedin ) ( Kojo's Twitter / X ) Rob's Links ( halfcourt.vc ) ( Rob AI Newsletter ) 01:00 - Competition drives inference costs reduction significantly. 05:35 - Evolution of tech parallels Internet's media expansion. 09:28 - Open source enhances adaptability; application layer underrated. 11:42 - OpenAI achieved rapid growth, comparable to Google. 15:55 - AI needs business model to capture value. 18:07 - AI impersonation threats impact identity-centric businesses. 22:34 - Lead with curiosity; choose inspired over anxious. 23:52 - Gratitude expressed; requests blog URL for more.

    24 min

  7. 10/16/2024

    Feedback Now’s Real-Time Feedback Evolution with Steve Peltzman and Sam Koch

    Welcome to another exciting episode of 'AI Innovators with Rob May.' This is the podcast where we dive deep into the transformative world of artificial intelligence and its impacts across various industries. I'm your host, Rob May, and today, we have a fascinating episode lined up for you. In today's episode, we're thrilled to be joined by two incredible guests, Steve Peltzman and Sam Koch. Steve is here to shed light on the limitations of traditional surveys in identifying specific issues, particularly in public restrooms, and to emphasize the unparalleled insights provided by real-time data. Sam, on the other hand, has extensive experience in automating workflows using AI within the private equity space and will be sharing some innovative applications of AI in enhancing operational efficiency at Feedback now—a company renowned for its groundbreaking restroom feedback buttons and real-time data collection through IoT devices. We'll explore how Feedback now's technology extends beyond restroom feedback to improve services in hospitals and other facilities. Additionally, we'll discuss a three-tiered AI adoption strategy that businesses can use to integrate AI effectively, the importance of measuring and optimizing facilities like older airport bathrooms, and the critical role of agility and real-time feedback in smaller companies. Whether you're an executive looking to adopt AI in your operations or simply curious about the future of AI, this episode is packed with insights, real-world examples, and actionable advice. So, without further ado, let's jump right into our conversation with Steve Peltzman and Sam Koch. Stay tuned!" Contact Feedback Now https://feedbacknow.com/ info@FeedbackNow.com feedbacknow Sam's Linkedin Steven Linkedin Rob Links ( halfcourt.vc ) ( Rob AI Newsletter ) 04:23 – Leveraging AI to automate private equity deal sourcing. 09:34 – Exploring the customer journey: interconnected experiences and lack of control. 13:50 – Integrating diverse data sets with real-time AI for enhanced insights. 16:41 – Accelerating transactions to boost spending and elevate customer experience. 19:31 – Encouraging feedback participation to influence system improvements. 21:44 – How schedule changes and feedback lead to greater efficiency and savings. 26:41 – Managing egos: Sam’s leadership transformation focused on innovation. 29:59 – Overcoming barriers: Avoiding comfort in victimhood. 31:26 – Enhancing decision-making by learning from past mistakes.

    34 min

  8. 10/09/2024

    From Email Clients to AI Agents: Insights on Building AI-Powered Sales Tools with Jason Patel of OpenForge

    Welcome to AI Innovators podcast with your host, Rob May. In this episode of the AI Innovators podcast, I chat with Jason Patel, founder of Openforge. Jason shares his intriguing journey of building an AI-powered email sales tool, highlighting the dynamic decision-making process about the right level of AI integration into their tech stack. Openforge aims to enhance the email sales experience, and Jason discusses the company's evolving strategy, navigating whether to adopt platform models and capturing market momentum. We delve into Openforge's choice of using Claude from Anthropic as their primary Large Language Model (LLM) and compare it to other AI models, like OpenAI. Jason reveals how Claude excels in parsing natural language and providing nuanced responses in sales communications, emphasizing the arms race in AI development. The conversation also addresses the potential future of AI in sales and customer acquisition. Jason speculates on the evolving role of AI agents, suggesting that while AI might handle much of the grunt work, the indispensable human touch in sales and customer interactions will continue to hold significant importance. Additionally, we discuss the rapid pace of AI advancements and how this new wave influences entrepreneurial strategies. Jason reflects on his experiences as a second-time founder, contrasting his previous edtech venture with the current AI-driven landscape, and underscores the necessity for founders to remain agile and pivot swiftly in response to market changes. Tune in to gain insights on how to navigate the ever-changing AI ecosystem, the importance of embracing market feedback, and the future trajectory of AI in transforming industries. Guest Links: ( Open Forge Ai/ ) ( Jason's Linkedin ) Rob Links ( halfcourt.vc ) ( Rob AI Newsletter ) 05:10 AI development is an ongoing competitive arms race. 07:14 AI supports tasks; human connection remains essential. 12:29 Embrace change; future communication methods are unknown. 15:58 AI ecosystem evolution prompts shift to platform. 18:55 Potential AI monopolies threaten economic diversity. 21:24 Entrepreneurship: Celebrated, yet challenging and financially dire. 23:46 Tune in to AI Innovators podcast, subscribe. AI Innovators Podcast : interviews technical leaders, investors, and business executives about the impact AI is having on business models, markets, products, and consumer behavior. We investigate impacts on public and private markets, from startups, to large companies like Amazon, Google, and Facebook. If you invest at any level and are looking to understand how AI will impact your world, please subscribe. Presented by HalfCourt Ventures

    24 min
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8 Ratings

About

AI Innovators Podcast interviews technical leaders, investors, and business executives about the impact AI is having on business models, markets, products, and consumer behavior. We investigate impacts on public and private markets, from startups, to large companies like Amazon, Google, and Facebook. If you invest at any level and are looking to understand how AI will impact your world, please subscribe.Presented by HalfCourt Ventures

Information

  • Creator
    Rob May & HalfCourt Ventures
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2025
  • Episodes
    48
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2024 AI Innovators
  • Show Website
    AI Innovators

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