Liftoff with Keith: Conversations with Super Founders and Growth Experts sharing useful insights

Journalist, Startup and GTM whiz Keith N hosts the #1 Podcast for Super founders
  • 4.6 (40)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Updated Biweekly

Former journalist turned Silicon Valley dealmaker and entrepreneur Keith Newman talks with Founders, Innovators and Influencers who share their stories of success, pain and impact with a bit of humor and nostalgia mixed in. Hear from great leaders of the past along with some of the latest founders and growth strategists like Maverick Mark Cuban, SuperAngel Ron Conway, Ann Winblad, Mitch Kapor, Steve Blank and Founders of GameStop, Ancestry, JotForm, Fry's, Intuit, and more. Find 150+ Episodes https://open.spotify.com/show/3cFpLXfYvcUsxvsT9MwyAD

  1. 2d ago

    From Combat Logistics to Autonomous Freight: Building the Future of Road-to-Rail | Kevin Damoa

    What do Iraq, SpaceX, the EV boom, and autonomous freight have in common? In this episode of Liftoff, Keith sits down with Kevin Damoa , Army combat veteran and founder & CEO of Glīd, to explore the future of logistics and the technology transforming how freight moves between road and rail. Kevin shares how nearly 25 years of logistics experience, including military logistics, SpaceX, and leadership roles across the EV industry, inspired him to tackle one of the biggest challenges in global supply chains: making rail transportation more accessible. We discuss how Glīd is building autonomous vehicles designed to streamline the road-to-rail transition, why the company has focused on building more cost-efficiently, and how Kevin's experiences at SpaceX shaped his approach to culture, innovation, and solving seemingly impossible problems. Kevin also shares lessons on: Building hard tech with limited capital Why culture can make or break a startup The importance of solving customer pain before commercialization How to evaluate risk before launching an MVP The future of autonomous freight and physical AI Why logistics is facing a growing labor and infrastructure challenge What SpaceX taught him about belief, ingenuity, and making the impossible possible From combat logistics to rocket logistics to autonomous freight, this is a conversation about building technology that could fundamentally change how the world moves. Sponsor Info: We are strategic business advisors with decades of leadership experience and a proven track record of driving businesses’ growth. We specialize in creating custom-tailored strategies to introduce your company, drive growth, build leadership teams, and ensure companies implement appropriate compensation programs. Our mission is to utilize our expansive network to benefit your company https://www.compass-strategic-advisors.com/Connect with Kevin Damoa: Website: https://www.glidtech.us/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-a-damoa-9b514770 Subscribe for more founder insights and hit the bell for notifications! Follow us on our channels for exclusive startup content and behind-the-scenes insights from interviews like this one. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3cFpLXfYvcUsxvsT9MwyAD?si=f5a14e779777487d Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/liftoff-with-keith-newman/id1560219589 Substack: https://keithnewman.substack.com/ Newman Media Studios: https://newmanmediastudios.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/liftoffwithkeithWebsite: https://liftoffwithkeith.com/If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to Like, Subscribe and Share.

  2. Jul 21

    How Physical AI Will Transform Manufacturing | Paul Powers, CEO of Physna | The Liftoff

    What if AI could understand the physical world as well as it understands text? In this episode of The Liftoff, Keith sits down with Paul Powers, CEO & Co-Founder of Physna, to explore why the next wave of AI won't just generate content—it will understand objects, manufacturing, engineering, and supply chains. Paul explains how Physna's "Physical DNA" technology enables AI to understand 3D objects, helping companies dramatically improve product design, procurement, robotics, digital twins, and manufacturing intelligence. The conversation also covers reshoring manufacturing, AI infrastructure, startup timing, and why physical AI could become one of the biggest technology shifts of the decade. In this episode: What Physical AI actually meansHow Physna teaches computers to understand 3D objectsWhy AI struggles with the physical world todaySaving manufacturers hundreds of millions of dollarsDigital twins, robotics & engineering AIThe future of manufacturing and reshoringAI, 3D printing & security challengesStartup lessons from building deep-tech companiesWhy timing matters more than most founders realizeIf you enjoy conversations about AI, startups, innovation, deep technology, and entrepreneurship, don't forget to Like, Subscribe, and Share. Sponsor Info: We are strategic business advisors with decades of leadership experience and a proven track record of driving businesses’ growth. We specialize in creating custom-tailored strategies to introduce your company, drive growth, build leadership teams, and ensure companies implement appropriate compensation programs. Our mission is to utilize our expansive network to benefit your company https://www.compass-strategic-advisors.com/ Connect with Trip Hawkins: Website: https://www.ea.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/triphawkins/ Subscribe for more founder insights and hit the bell for notifications! Follow us on our channels for exclusive startup content and behind-the-scenes insights from interviews like this one. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3cFpLXfYvcUsxvsT9MwyAD?si=f5a14e779777487d Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/liftoff-with-keith-newman/id1560219589 Substack: https://keithnewman.substack.com/ Newman Media Studios: https://newmanmediastudios.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/liftoffwithkeithWebsite: https://liftoffwithkeith.com/If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to Like, Subscribe and Share. #AI #ArtificialIntelligence #PhysicalAI #Physna #PaulPowers #Manufacturing #Engineering #Robotics #DigitalTwins #SupplyChain #Innovation #DeepTech #Startup #Entrepreneurship #TheLiftoff

  3. Jul 14

    How Trip Hawkins Built Electronic Arts & Changed Gaming Forever | Liftoff with Keith

    What does it take to build a company that changes an entire industry? Note: Due to some video connection challenges the host wasn't on the video feed for the entire program In this episode of Liftoff with Keith, legendary entrepreneur Trip Hawkins, Founder of Electronic Arts (EA) and creator of one of the world's most influential gaming companies, shares the principles behind building category-defining businesses. From launching EA and helping create the Madden franchise to investing in the next generation of AI startups, Trip explains why lasting companies don't simply build better products they change customer behavior. In this conversation, you'll learn: How Electronic Arts transformed the gaming industryThe strategy behind creating billion-dollar companiesWhy changing customer behavior creates lasting valueWhat investors really look for in foundersAI opportunities every business leader should understandWhy enterprise AI readiness matters more than AI hypeLessons from decades of innovation and venture investingWhether you're an entrepreneur, founder, investor, executive, or technology leader, this episode is packed with timeless insights on innovation, leadership and building businesses that last. If you enjoyed this conversation, like the video, subscribe, and share it with someone building the future. Sponsor Info: We are strategic business advisors with decades of leadership experience and a proven track record of driving businesses’ growth. We specialize in creating custom-tailored strategies to introduce your company, drive growth, build leadership teams, and ensure companies implement appropriate compensation programs. Our mission is to utilize our expansive network to benefit your company https://www.compass-strategic-advisors.com/Connect with Trip Hawkins: Website: https://www.ea.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/triphawkins/ Subscribe for more founder insights and hit the bell for notifications! Follow us on our channels for exclusive startup content and behind-the-scenes insights from interviews like this one. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3cFpLXfYvcUsxvsT9MwyAD?si=f5a14e779777487d Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/liftoff-with-keith-newman/id1560219589 Substack: https://keithnewman.substack.com/ Newman Media Studios: https://newmanmediastudios.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/liftoffwithkeithWebsite: https://liftoffwithkeith.com/If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to Like, Subscribe and Share.

  4. Jul 7

    The First Wave of AI Is Over — What's Next for Enterprise AI? | Clint Chao

    The AI boom isn't over but the first wave is. In this episode of Liftoff with Keith, Keith sits down with Clint Chao, Co-Founder & General Partner at Moment Ventures, to discuss where AI is really headed, why enterprise software is entering a new phase, and what founders should focus on as the hype settles. They explore venture capital, AI adoption, enterprise transformation, startup execution, and what separates companies that create lasting value from those simply following the latest trend. Whether you're a founder, investor, operator, or simply curious about the future of AI, this conversation is packed with practical insights. Key Topics Why the first wave of AI is endingWhat comes next for Enterprise AIBuilding companies during technology shiftsVenture capital perspectives on AI startupsEnterprise software trendsWhat investors are looking for todayLong-term opportunities in AIIf you enjoy conversations with world-class founders, investors and operators, subscribe to Liftoff with Keith. Sponsor Info: We are strategic business advisors with decades of leadership experience and a proven track record of driving businesses’ growth. We specialize in creating custom-tailored strategies to introduce your company, drive growth, build leadership teams, and ensure companies implement appropriate compensation programs. Our mission is to utilize our expansive network to benefit your company https://www.compass-strategic-advisors.com/Connect with Clint Chao: Website: http://www.momentventures.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clintchao Subscribe for more founder insights and hit the bell for notifications! Follow us on our channels for exclusive startup content and behind-the-scenes insights from interviews like this one. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3cFpLXfYvcUsxvsT9MwyAD?si=f5a14e779777487d Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/liftoff-with-keith-newman/id1560219589 Substack: https://keithnewman.substack.com/ Newman Media Studios: https://newmanmediastudios.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/liftoffwithkeith If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to Like, Subscribe and Share.

  5. Jun 30

    Why Great Brands Win (Even When Ads Stop Working) | Bill Harper

    What separates unforgettable brands from businesses that constantly fight for attention? In this episode of Liftoff with Keith, branding expert Bill Harper, Founder of Brand Boss HQ and one of the world's Top 20 Branding Experts, shares why branding—not just marketing—is the ultimate competitive advantage. Bill explains why most companies spend too much time optimizing ads and too little time building a memorable brand. From GEICO and Volvo to startups and SaaS businesses, he reveals how successful companies create differentiation, simplify their message, and become the obvious choice for customers. We also discuss: Brand Strategy vs Brand IdentityWhy performance marketing alone eventually failsHow AI is changing branding and marketingThe psychology behind memorable brandsHow startups can stand out in crowded marketsReal-world branding success storiesCreating a brand customers actually rememberWhether you're a founder, entrepreneur, marketer, or business leader, this conversation is packed with practical branding advice you can implement immediately. Sponsor Info: We are strategic business advisors with decades of leadership experience and a proven track record of driving businesses’ growth. We specialize in creating custom-tailored strategies to introduce your company, drive growth, build leadership teams, and ensure companies implement appropriate compensation programs. Our mission is to utilize our expansive network to benefit your company https://www.compass-strategic-advisors.com/ Connect with Bill Harper: Website: https://www.brandbosshq.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandbosshq/ Subscribe for more founder insights and hit the bell for notifications! Follow us on our channels for exclusive startup content and behind-the-scenes insights from interviews like this one. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3cFpLXfYvcUsxvsT9MwyAD?si=f5a14e779777487d Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/liftoff-with-keith-newman/id1560219589 Substack: https://keithnewman.substack.com/ Newman Media Studios: https://newmanmediastudios.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/liftoffwithkeith If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to Like, Subscribe and Share. #Branding #Marketing #Startup #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #BrandStrategy #AI #MarketingStrategy #Founder #Podcast

  6. Jun 23

    Why Most Brands Stop Growing (And How To Fix It) | Stephen Cozzolongo

    Most businesses don't fail because they lack ideas. They fail because they struggle to execute, communicate their value clearly, and connect with the right customers. In this episode of Liftoff, Keith Newman sits down with Stephen Cozzolongo, Partner & CMO at Digital Position, to discuss growth marketing, customer acquisition, AI, business scaling, leadership, and the mindset required to build successful companies. Stephen shares why trying to market to everyone is one of the biggest mistakes businesses make, how AI is transforming marketing workflows, why great marketers aren't being replaced by AI, and how discipline and consistency influence every aspect of business and life. Whether you're a founder, marketer, entrepreneur, or business leader, this conversation is packed with practical insights on growth, execution, and long-term success. Topics discussed: Why most brands stop growingThe importance of customer segmentation and ICPsHow AI is changing marketing and advertisingThe future of content creationPaid media, SEO and growth strategies Leadership and company cultureThe mindset behind consistent executionWhy "How you do one thing is how you do everything"Connect with Stephen Cozzolongo: Website: https://www.digitalposition.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephencozzolongo Sponsor Info: We are strategic business advisors with decades of leadership experience and a proven track record of driving businesses’ growth. We specialize in creating custom-tailored strategies to introduce your company, drive growth, build leadership teams, and ensure companies implement appropriate compensation programs. Our mission is to utilize our expansive network to benefit your company https://www.compass-strategic-advisors.com/ Subscribe for more founder insights and hit the bell for notifications! Follow us on our channels for exclusive startup content and behind-the-scenes insights from interviews like this one. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3cFpLXfYvcUsxvsT9MwyAD?si=f5a14e779777487d Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/liftoff-with-keith-newman/id1560219589 Substack: https://keithnewman.substack.com/ Newman Media Studios: https://newmanmediastudios.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/liftoffwithkeith #Marketing #GrowthMarketing #BusinessGrowth #Entrepreneurship #DigitalMarketing #AI #Leadership #SEO #PaidMedia #BusinessPodcast #LiftoffPodcast

  7. Jun 16

    How Healthcare Benefits Are Broken—and What Comes Next | Brandy Thompson, CEO of BenefitBay

    Healthcare costs continue to rise, employees have fewer choices than ever, and many employers are stuck navigating a system that feels increasingly unsustainable. In this episode of Liftoff, Keith Newman sits down with Brandy Thompson, Founder & CEO of BenefitBay, to discuss the future of healthcare benefits, employee choice, leadership, entrepreneurship, and building a fast-growing company in one of the most complex industries in America. Brandy shares why she believes employees should have greater control over their healthcare decisions, how transparency can improve outcomes, and why the future of benefits may look very different than today's one-size-fits-all model. The conversation also explores founder lessons, leadership, raising six children while building a career, and what it takes to lead through growth and change. About Brandy Thompson: Brandy Thompson is the Founder & CEO of BenefitBay, a Kansas City-based company helping employers modernize healthcare benefits through Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangements (ICHRAs). BenefitBay recently announced an $18 million Series A funding round to expand its platform and infrastructure supporting personalized employee healthcare benefits. Connect with Brandy Thompson: Website: https://www.benefitbay.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandy-thompson-24389536 Benefitbay just raised a series A, which will lend itself to really good growth questions: https://www.einpresswire.com/article/914114134/benefitbay-raises-18-million-series-a-led-by-ten-coves-capital-to-scale-its-broker-first-ichra-platform Sponsor Info: We are strategic business advisors with decades of leadership experience and a proven track record of driving businesses’ growth. We specialize in creating custom-tailored strategies to introduce your company, drive growth, build leadership teams, and ensure companies implement appropriate compensation programs. Our mission is to utilize our expansive network to benefit your company https://www.compass-strategic-advisors.com/ Subscribe for more founder insights and hit the bell for notifications! Follow us on our channels for exclusive startup content and behind-the-scenes insights from interviews like this one. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3cFpLXfYvcUsxvsT9MwyAD?si=f5a14e779777487d Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/liftoff-with-keith-newman/id1560219589 Substack: https://keithnewman.substack.com/ Newman Media Studios: https://newmanmediastudios.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/liftoffwithkeith #Healthcare #Leadership #EmployeeBenefits #Entrepreneurship #FounderJourney #CEO #FutureOfWork #HealthInsurance #HealthcareInnovation #BusinessPodcast #LiftoffPodcast #BenefitBay

  8. Jun 9

    Greg Whalen (CTO, Prove AI): Why Most AI Projects Fail Before Production

    In this episode, Keith sits down with an AI infrastructure leader to unpack what is really happening behind the current AI boom. While most conversations focus on models and hype, this discussion goes deeper into the engineering realities of building reliable AI systems at scale. The conversation explores why observability, telemetry, debugging, and system architecture are becoming critical as enterprises move from experimentation to production AI. They also discuss why terms like “agentic AI” are often misunderstood, why many AI projects end up being rebuilt from scratch, and why the future competitive advantage may come from the tooling built around models rather than the models themselves. Topics covered include: Why most AI systems fail due to poor observabilityThe real engineering challenges behind enterprise AIWhy “agentic AI” may be the industry’s most overused termThe shift toward commoditized foundation modelsWhy telemetry and debugging will define reliable AI systemsThe underrated founder skill of ignoring distractionsWhat the AI stack could look like by 2028This episode is a practical conversation about the difference between AI demos and real AI infrastructure. Sponsor Info: We are strategic business advisors with decades of leadership experience and a proven track record of driving businesses’ growth. We specialize in creating custom-tailored strategies to introduce your company, drive growth, build leadership teams, and ensure companies implement appropriate compensation programs. Our mission is to utilize our expansive network to benefit your company https://www.compass-strategic-advisors.com/ Connect with Greg Whalen: Website: https://prove.ai/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-m-whalenDiscord Server (Multi-Agent Systems Engineering Group) - https://discord.gg/sXpr2Hh Subscribe for more founder insights and hit the bell for notifications! Follow us on our channels for exclusive startup content and behind-the-scenes insights from interviews like this one. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3cFpLXfYvcUsxvsT9MwyAD?si=f5a14e779777487d Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/liftoff-with-keith-newman/id1560219589 Substack: https://keithnewman.substack.com/ Newman Media Studios: https://newmanmediastudios.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/liftoffwithkeith For sponsorship inquiries, please contact: sponsorships@wherewithstudio.com #AI #ArtificialIntelligence #EnterpriseAI #MachineLearning #SoftwareEngineering #AIInfrastructure #StartupGrowth #Leadership #FounderMindset #TechLeadership

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Former journalist turned Silicon Valley dealmaker and entrepreneur Keith Newman talks with Founders, Innovators and Influencers who share their stories of success, pain and impact with a bit of humor and nostalgia mixed in. Hear from great leaders of the past along with some of the latest founders and growth strategists like Maverick Mark Cuban, SuperAngel Ron Conway, Ann Winblad, Mitch Kapor, Steve Blank and Founders of GameStop, Ancestry, JotForm, Fry's, Intuit, and more. Find 150+ Episodes https://open.spotify.com/show/3cFpLXfYvcUsxvsT9MwyAD

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