Horizon Deep Tech '25: The podcast

Finaman.io

Building the future—one conversation at a time. The BuildingBusiness Podcast explores the ideas, technologies and people shaping tomorrow's world. Hosted by entrepreneur Christian Arnø, each episode features honest conversations with founders, investors, researchers and industry leaders building the next generation of businesses across AI, deep tech, quantum computing, robotics, defense, health tech, climate technology and entrepreneurship. Rather than focusing on headlines, we dive into the stories behind the companies—the challenges, breakthroughs, failures and lessons that rarely make it onto stage. Whether recorded from international conferences, startup hubs or company headquarters, every episode is designed to give founders, innovators and curious minds practical insights into the technologies changing the way we live and work. If you're passionate about innovation, startups and the future of business, you're in the right place. Horizon Deep Tech 2025 Special Series This special series was recorded live at Horizon Deep Tech 2025 in Madrid, featuring conversations with some of Europe's most exciting founders, researchers and technology leaders. Across the series we explore: Artificial Intelligence Quantum Computing HealthTech Defense Technology Robotics & Autonomous Systems Digital Twins Venture Capital Deep Tech Entrepreneurship Real conversations. Real innovators. Real technology shaping the future.

Episodes

  1. Aug 6

    Horizon Deep Tech '25 Ep. 10: Building Europe's Quantum Computing Leader with David Rodriguez

    Quantum computing isn't just a vision anymore—it's already being built, installed and used. Recorded live at Horizon Deep Tech 2025 in Madrid, I sat down with David Rodriguez, Country Manager Iberia at IQM Quantum Computers, one of Europe's leading quantum computing companies. While many people still think quantum computing exists only in research labs, IQM is already delivering full-stack quantum computers to universities, research centers and national laboratories around the world. David shares how Europe is positioning itself in the global quantum race, why building a quantum ecosystem matters just as much as building the hardware itself, and what businesses should do today to prepare for the next generation of computing. In this episode we discuss: • How real quantum computers are built • Why Europe is becoming a quantum leader • The biggest challenges facing quantum computing • Building talent for the quantum industry • Hybrid computing with CPUs, GPUs and QPUs • How businesses can prepare for the quantum era We also explore why quantum computing isn't replacing classical computing—but working alongside it—and how education and ecosystem development will determine which regions lead the next technological revolution. Whether you're interested in AI, quantum computing, engineering or emerging technologies, this episode provides a practical look inside one of Europe's fastest-growing deep tech companies. 🎙️ Recorded live at Horizon Deep Tech 2025, Madrid. The BuildingBusiness Podcast explores entrepreneurship, AI, quantum technology, deep tech and the innovators building tomorrow's technologies. #QuantumComputing #QuantumTechnology #DeepTech #Innovation #Engineering #FutureTech #IQM #HorizonDeepTech #BuildingBusinessPodcast

  2. Aug 6

    Horizon Deep Tech '25 Ep. 9: Making Big Data Human with Seda Tosun

    Data isn't the problem anymore. Understanding it is. Recorded live at Horizon Deep Tech 2025 in Madrid, I sat down with Seda Tosun, Co-Founder and Business Development Lead at Immersia, to explore how digital twins, AI and data visualization are transforming the way businesses understand and use data. By combining AI, machine learning and game-engine technology, Immersia enables organizations to build interactive digital twins that make complex industrial data easier to explore, analyze and act upon—without writing code. In this episode we discuss: • What digital twins really are • Why data visualization is becoming essential • AI, machine learning and no-code analytics • How gaming technology is transforming industry • Smart cities and industrial digital twins • Why AI should augment human decision-making—not replace it We also discuss how organizations are moving beyond spreadsheets and static dashboards towards immersive, real-time environments where data becomes intuitive, collaborative and actionable. Whether you're working with AI, Industry 4.0, manufacturing, smart cities or simply interested in the future of data, this conversation offers valuable insights into one of the most exciting areas of deep tech. 🎙️ Recorded live at Horizon Deep Tech 2025, Madrid.Connect with Seda Tosun The BuildingBusiness Podcast explores entrepreneurship, AI, deep tech and the innovators building tomorrow's technologies. #ArtificialIntelligence #DigitalTwins #BigData #DataVisualization #MachineLearning #Industry40 #SmartCities #DeepTech #HorizonDeepTech #BuildingBusinessPodcast

  3. Aug 5

    Horizon Deep Tech '25 Ep. 8: What Makes Great Startups? with Juan Lataza

    What separates startups that succeed from those that never make it? Recorded live at Horizon Deep Tech 2025 in Madrid, I sat down with Juan Lataza, President of the MIT Alumni Entrepreneurship Forum Spain, MIT Physics graduate, venture capitalist and entrepreneurship educator. After spending decades in telecommunications, venture capital and startup mentoring, Juan shares the lessons he has learned from working with hundreds of founders—and why great technology alone is never enough. We discuss how MIT shaped his thinking, why execution beats ideas, and what investors actually look for when evaluating deep tech startups. In this episode we discuss: • Lessons learned from MIT • Building successful deep tech startups • Venture capital and startup investing • Product-market fit and customer discovery • Why execution matters more than ideas • The role of mentorship in entrepreneurship We also explore how Europe's startup ecosystem has evolved over the past three decades and what today's founders should focus on if they want to build companies that last. Whether you're launching your first startup, raising investment or simply passionate about entrepreneurship, this conversation is packed with practical advice from someone who has seen the ecosystem evolve from the inside. 🎙️ Recorded live at Horizon Deep Tech 2025, Madrid. The BuildingBusiness Podcast explores entrepreneurship, AI, deep tech and the founders, investors and innovators building tomorrow's businesses. #Startups #Entrepreneurship #MIT #VentureCapital #Innovation #DeepTech #Founders #HorizonDeepTech #BuildingBusinessPodcast

  4. Aug 5

    Horizon Deep Tech '25 Ep. 7: Why Quantum Computing Is the Next AI with Youssouf Traore

    Artificial Intelligence changed the world. Quantum computing could change it all over again. Recorded live at Horizon Deep Tech 2025 in Madrid, I sat down with Youssouf Traore, quantum technology investor, Deep Tech professor at IE Business School, advisor to the European Investment Bank, and member of the Africa Quantum Consortium. We discuss why quantum computing is rapidly becoming one of the world's most strategic technologies—and why countries, investors and entrepreneurs need to prepare long before the technology reaches maturity. Youssouf also shares why Africa has a unique opportunity to become an important player in the global quantum ecosystem, rather than simply adopting technologies developed elsewhere. In this episode we discuss: • Why quantum computing is the next major technology wave • Investing in deep tech before the market matures • Europe's role in the global quantum race • Why Africa should be part of the quantum revolution • AI, quantum computing and the technologies shaping the future • The importance of building global innovation ecosystems We also explore practical quantum applications—from healthcare and logistics to climate science, finance and secure communications—and discuss why the next decade could fundamentally redefine computing. Whether you're an entrepreneur, investor, engineer or simply fascinated by emerging technologies, this conversation offers valuable insights into one of the most exciting frontiers in modern innovation. 🎙️ Recorded live at Horizon Deep Tech 2025, Madrid.Connect with Youssouf Traore The BuildingBusiness Podcast explores entrepreneurship, AI, quantum technology, deep tech and the innovators building tomorrow's world. #QuantumComputing #QuantumTechnology #DeepTech #ArtificialIntelligence #Innovation #Africa #Investing #HorizonDeepTech #BuildingBusinessPodcast

  5. Aug 5

    Horizon Deep Tech '25 Ep. 6: Building the Future of Quantum Computing with Nikolai Lavrov

    Quantum computing won't become reality without the hardware that makes it possible. Recorded live at Horizon Deep Tech 2025 in Madrid, I sat down with Nikolai Lavrov from QoolNet 2.0, a quantum hardware startup developing scalable single-photon light sources for the next generation of quantum technologies. Rather than building quantum computers themselves, QoolNet is creating one of the fundamental building blocks that could enable future quantum communication networks, distributed quantum computing and ultra-secure data transmission. In this episode we discuss: • What quantum light sources actually are • Why single photons matter • The future of quantum computing • Quantum communication and quantum networks • Quantum key distribution and digital security • Why building enabling technologies is often harder than building the final product We also explore where quantum technology stands today, what still needs to be proven, and why the next decade could fundamentally change computing as we know it. Whether you're curious about quantum computing, emerging technologies or deep tech startups, this episode offers an accessible introduction to one of the world's most exciting technological frontiers. 🎙️ Recorded live at Horizon Deep Tech 2025, Madrid.Connect with Nikolai Lavrov The BuildingBusiness Podcast explores entrepreneurship, AI, quantum technology, deep tech and the innovators building tomorrow's technologies. #QuantumComputing #QuantumTechnology #DeepTech #Photonics #Innovation #Startups #QuantumNetworks #HorizonDeepTech #BuildingBusinessPodcast

  6. Aug 5

    Horizon Deep Tech '25 Ep. 5: Building the Future of Autonomous Racing with Javier Martín

    The future of autonomous driving isn't being built by billion-dollar companies alone—it’s also being built by students. Recorded live at Horizon Deep Tech 2025 in Madrid, I sat down with Javier Martín from the ICAI Formula Student Racing Team to explore how one of Spain's leading university engineering teams is developing an autonomous Formula-style race car. From designing and manufacturing electric race cars to implementing autonomous driving systems, Javier shares how Formula Student has become a real-world innovation lab where tomorrow's engineers learn by building.In this episode we discuss: • Building an autonomous Formula Student race car • The future of self-driving technology • Why Formula Student develops world-class engineers • Simulation vs. real-world testing • AI, perception systems and autonomous navigation • Why continuous experimentation drives innovation We also discuss where autonomous driving is heading—from race tracks to highways—and why today's student projects often become tomorrow's commercial technologies. Whether you're passionate about AI, robotics, motorsport or engineering, this episode offers a fascinating look into the next generation of autonomous mobility. 🎙️ Recorded live at Horizon Deep Tech 2025, Madrid.Connect with Javier Martín The BuildingBusiness Podcast explores entrepreneurship, AI, deep tech and the innovators building tomorrow's technologies. #AutonomousDriving #FormulaStudent #Engineering #ArtificialIntelligence #Robotics #ElectricVehicles #DeepTech #HorizonDeepTech #BuildingBusinessPodcast

  7. Aug 5

    Horizon Deep Tech '25 Ep. 4: AI, Defense & the Myth of Killer Robots with Leo Heng

    When people hear "AI in defense," they immediately think of killer robots. But what if that's the least interesting part of the conversation? Recorded live at Horizon Deep Tech 2025 in Madrid, I sat down with Leo Heng, Chief Strategy Officer at Reaktor Defense & Security, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming defense—and why public perception often misses the bigger picture. With more than a decade of experience building digital defense solutions for governments, NATO partners and critical infrastructure, Leo explains how AI is already reshaping everything from logistics and cybersecurity to decision support and autonomous systems.In this episode we discuss:• The five categories of AI in defense • Why "killer robots" dominate the public debate • AI, ethics and military decision-making • Human-machine teaming and the future battlefield • Building trust in autonomous systems • Why governments need better technological understanding We also explore one of the most important questions facing modern society: How do we embrace AI's potential while maintaining human control and democratic values? Whether you're interested in AI, defense technology, cybersecurity or the future of autonomous systems, this conversation offers a thoughtful perspective on one of today's most misunderstood topics. 🎙️ Recorded live at Horizon Deep Tech 2025, Madrid.Connect with Leo Lahtinen The BuildingBusiness Podcast explores entrepreneurship, AI, deep tech and the innovators building tomorrow's technologies. #ArtificialIntelligence #DefenseTech #MilitaryTechnology #AutonomousSystems #CyberSecurity #DeepTech #HorizonDeepTech #BuildingBusinessPodcast

  8. Aug 5

    Horizon Deep Tech '25 Ep. 3: Keeping Humans at the Center of AI with David Vivancos

    AI should empower people—not replace them. Recorded live at Horizon Deep Tech 2025 in Madrid, I sat down with David Vivancos, Chief AI Officer at JSP and Global CTO of I Wave for AI, to explore how artificial intelligence can improve wellbeing while keeping humans firmly at the center of technology. With a background in mathematics, AI research, ethics, and more than 40 published books, David shares why responsible AI isn't just about algorithms—it's about designing technology that supports people rather than replacing them. In this episode we discuss: • AI and the future of workplace wellbeing • Why AI should complement—not replace—therapists • Ethical and responsible AI development • Building trust in AI systems • The importance of critical thinking in the AI era • Why asking better questions leads to better AI answers We also dive into one of today's biggest challenges: balancing the incredible opportunities of AI with realistic expectations, avoiding both unnecessary fear and unrealistic hype. Whether you're building AI products, leading digital transformation, or simply curious about where artificial intelligence is heading, this conversation offers valuable perspectives from one of Europe's leading AI advocates. 🎙️ Recorded live at Horizon Deep Tech 2025, Madrid. The BuildingBusiness Podcast explores entrepreneurship, AI, deep tech and the founders, innovators and leaders building tomorrow's businesses. #ArtificialIntelligence #AI #ResponsibleAI #EthicalAI #MentalHealth #Wellbeing #DeepTech #HorizonDeepTech #BuildingBusinessPodcast

About

Building the future—one conversation at a time. The BuildingBusiness Podcast explores the ideas, technologies and people shaping tomorrow's world. Hosted by entrepreneur Christian Arnø, each episode features honest conversations with founders, investors, researchers and industry leaders building the next generation of businesses across AI, deep tech, quantum computing, robotics, defense, health tech, climate technology and entrepreneurship. Rather than focusing on headlines, we dive into the stories behind the companies—the challenges, breakthroughs, failures and lessons that rarely make it onto stage. Whether recorded from international conferences, startup hubs or company headquarters, every episode is designed to give founders, innovators and curious minds practical insights into the technologies changing the way we live and work. If you're passionate about innovation, startups and the future of business, you're in the right place. Horizon Deep Tech 2025 Special Series This special series was recorded live at Horizon Deep Tech 2025 in Madrid, featuring conversations with some of Europe's most exciting founders, researchers and technology leaders. Across the series we explore: Artificial Intelligence Quantum Computing HealthTech Defense Technology Robotics & Autonomous Systems Digital Twins Venture Capital Deep Tech Entrepreneurship Real conversations. Real innovators. Real technology shaping the future.