Tank Talks By Ripple Ventures

Ripple Ventures
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Join your host, Matt Cohen, Founder & Managing Partner at Ripple Ventures for weekly conversations with leaders in the startup ecosystem discussing the truth about investing, building and running startups. tanktalks.substack.com

  1. Is Quantum Computing the Next Big Tech Revolution? with Christian Weedbrook of Xanadu

    5시간 전

    Is Quantum Computing the Next Big Tech Revolution? with Christian Weedbrook of Xanadu

    In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen is joined by Christian Weedbrook, Founder and CEO of Xanadu, a groundbreaking Canadian company leading the charge in photonic quantum computing. With over $250 million raised, Xanadu is on track to revolutionize industries through its cutting-edge quantum technologies. Christian discusses his transition from academia to entrepreneurship, the challenges of building a quantum company, and the potential for quantum computing to reshape industries like AI, drug discovery, and materials science. He shares his insights on Canada’s role in the future of quantum tech, how quantum’s “ChatGPT moment” will likely change the game, and why error correction is the key to scalable quantum applications. Christian also dives into Xanadu’s ambitious plans for a quantum data center in Toronto, aiming to leverage room-temperature photonic computing to create the world’s first fault-tolerant quantum computing environment by 2029. From AI-driven innovation to material science breakthroughs, this episode is packed with insights on how the future of computing is being redefined. A Quick Word from our Sponsor, Fasken At Fasken, our clients don’t wait for the future. They build it. As the first and largest dedicated emerging tech practice in Canada, our team is composed of founders, ex in-house counsel, developers and business advisors who have guided clients from startup, to scale-up, to exit. The trust of our clients has enabled us to consistently rank at the top of every major Canadian M&A, Capital Markets and Venture Capital league table. With deep industry knowledge and experience across all areas of emerging and high growth technology including ClimateTech, MedTech, Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, and AgTech we’re your partners within the innovation ecosystem as you transform the landscape of what's possible. Tomorrow starts here. Own it with us. For more information, visit fasken.com/emergingtech and follow us on LinkedIn. Christian’s Journey from Quantum Physics to Entrepreneurial Vision (08:15) * The transition from academia to founding Xanadu. * Early quantum research and turning theory into a business. Quantum's "ChatGPT Moment" (13:10) * How quantum computing’s breakthrough will mirror AI’s rise. * The promise of quantum in industries like AI and drug discovery. The Challenges of Quantum Capital and Investment (16:20) * The hurdles of fundraising and dealing with investors unfamiliar with quantum technology. Xanadu's Recent Breakthrough in Photonic Error Correction (18:47) * How solving error correction will pave the way for real-world quantum applications. * Quantum advantage in practical settings. Canada’s Advantage in Quantum and Xanadu's Global Impact (22:01) * Why Christian chose to build Xanadu in Toronto. * How Canada can lead the quantum revolution and avoid the pitfalls faced by the AI sector. The Future of Quantum Chemistry and Material Science (39:10) * The role of quantum computing in next-gen battery and solar cell development. * Why quantum chemistry is the next big frontier. About Christian Weedbrook Christian Weedbrook is the Founder and CEO of Xanadu, a leading quantum computing company based in Toronto, specializing in photonic quantum technologies. With a PhD in quantum computing, Christian has held postdoctoral positions at MIT and the University of Toronto, contributing to groundbreaking work in the field. He founded Xanadu in 2016, aiming to make quantum computing scalable and commercially viable. Under his leadership, the company has raised over $250 million and is on track to build the world’s first fault-tolerant quantum data center by 2029. Christian is dedicated to positioning Canada as a global leader in quantum computing and helping to unlock its potential across industries like AI, drug discovery, and material science. Connect with Christian Weedbrook on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christianweedbrook/ Visit the Xanadu website: https://www.xanadu.ai/ Connect with Matt Cohen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matt-cohen1 Visit the Ripple Ventures website: https://www.rippleventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tanktalks.substack.com

    50분
  2. The Rundown 9/16/25: Is Canada Ready for the AI Boom? The Future of Blockchain & Tech in the North

    1일 전

    The Rundown 9/16/25: Is Canada Ready for the AI Boom? The Future of Blockchain & Tech in the North

    In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen is joined by John Ruffolo to dive into a wide range of topics affecting Canada’s economy, from energy and tech to blockchain. They discuss the government’s announcement of major projects like LNG Canada’s expansion and the critical need for nuclear energy. The conversation also touches on Canada's role in the global energy market, especially with the growing importance of renewables and the challenges of balancing carbon-based energy. The episode shifts to AI and blockchain, exploring how Canada can stay competitive in the tech race. They also dive into the rise of stablecoins in Canada with Tetra Digital Group’s new Canadian peg stablecoin aimed at transforming B2B payments. Lastly, the episode examines the increasing presence of Canadian executives in U.S. tech companies and the risks of overvaluation in the AI startup space. A Quick Word from our Sponsor, Fasken At Fasken, our clients don’t wait for the future. They build it. As the first and largest dedicated emerging tech practice in Canada, our team is composed of founders, ex in-house counsel, developers and business advisors who have guided clients from startup, to scale-up, to exit. The trust of our clients has enabled us to consistently rank at the top of every major Canadian M&A, Capital Markets and Venture Capital league table. With deep industry knowledge and experience across all areas of emerging and high growth technology including ClimateTech, MedTech, Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, and AgTech we’re your partners within the innovation ecosystem as you transform the landscape of what's possible. Tomorrow starts here. Own it with us. For more information, visit fasken.com/emergingtech and follow us on LinkedIn. LNG, Nuclear & Energy Future: Canada’s Next Big Steps (00:07:13) Matt and John discuss the announcement of major energy projects in Canada, including LNG Canada’s expansion and the importance of investing in nuclear energy for the future. Stablecoin Innovation: The Canadian Peg Stablecoin (00:15:01) Tetra Digital Group in Calgary launches a Canadian peg stablecoin set to revolutionize B2B payments. John and Matt explore how it could impact Canada’s financial landscape. Opendoor's New CEO: Canadian Leadership in U.S. Tech (00:18:25) Opendoor appoints a Canadian executive as CEO, sparking a conversation about the growing influence of Canadian tech talent in major U.S. companies. AI Valuations: Are We Heading for a Tech Crash? (00:25:39) With the AI boom in full swing, Matt and John examine the potential for overvaluation and the risks of an AI bubble, echoing insights from Vinod Khosla on market “carnage.” AI’s Future: Innovation or Overhype? (00:26:15) Matt and John delve into the power law of investing, discussing how capital is flowing into AI and why only a few companies will win big while many others will fail. Connect with John Ruffolo on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/joruffolo Connect with Matt Cohen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matt-cohen1 Visit the Ripple Ventures website: https://www.rippleventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tanktalks.substack.com

    31분
  3. The Power of Benevolent Dictatorships in Startups with Nikunj Kothari of FPV Ventures

    9월 11일

    The Power of Benevolent Dictatorships in Startups with Nikunj Kothari of FPV Ventures

    In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen sits down with Nikunj Kothari, Partner at FPV Ventures, to explore his journey from product leader at LinkedIn, Opendoor, and Meter to early-stage investor. Nikunj shares candid insights on why the best companies thrive under benevolent dictatorships, how AI is reshaping SaaS pricing models, and what makes founders truly exceptional. From his early years growing up in India to becoming one of the most thoughtful voices in venture, Nikunj opens up about his decision to leave operating roles, his angel investing beginnings, and his transition to VC at storied firm Khosla Ventures before joining FPV. He also dives deep into evaluating founders, navigating hypergrowth, and why outcome-based pricing may define the next decade of SaaS. Whether you’re a founder looking to scale, an investor trying to spot the next breakout company, or simply curious about how AI is rewriting business models, this episode is packed with hard-earned lessons and bold ideas. A Quick Word from our Sponsor, Fasken At Fasken, our clients don’t wait for the future. They build it. As the first and largest dedicated emerging tech practice in Canada, our team is composed of founders, ex in-house counsel, developers and business advisors who have guided clients from startup, to scale-up, to exit. The trust of our clients has enabled us to consistently rank at the top of every major Canadian M&A, Capital Markets and Venture Capital league table. With deep industry knowledge and experience across all areas of emerging and high growth technology including ClimateTech, MedTech, Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, and AgTech we’re your partners within the innovation ecosystem as you transform the landscape of what's possible. Tomorrow starts here. Own it with us. For more information, visit fasken.com/emergingtech and follow us on LinkedIn. From India to Silicon Valley: Nikunj’s Early Journey (00:08:21) How his blend of engineering, design, and business led him to product management at LinkedIn and startups. Learning From Hypergrowth at LinkedIn and Opendoor (00:011:23) Why talent density and ambitious missions drive scaling organizations. The Investor’s Lens: Spotting Latitude in Founders (00:013:32) Nikunj’s framework for evaluating founder vision and depth at the earliest stages. Why the Best Companies Are Benevolent Dictatorships (00:015:39) How companies like Shopify and Coinbase thrive under strong, opinionated leaders. The Tension for Non-Founders in Dictatorship Environments (00:21:09) Nikunj’s personal lessons as a PM executing a founder’s vision. The Pivot to Investing: From Angel Checks to Khosla Ventures (00:23:26) Why he left operating roles, and what he had to unlearn as he became a VC. Joining FPV Ventures and Betting on Founder POVs (00:27:18) How FPV approaches concentrated early-stage investing with diligence and conviction. Gross Margins, Kingmaking, and the VC Trap (00:32:09) Why focusing on revenue quality matters more than chasing top-line growth. AI and the Future of SaaS Pricing Models (00:39:31) How outcome-based and usage-based pricing will disrupt per-seat SaaS models. Navigating Enterprise AI Adoption (00:44:22) The role of champions in enterprise sales and lessons from scar tissue in early adoption. Competing in Crowded Markets: The Series A Challenge (00:47:31) Why exceptional founders and market depth matter more than being first. Hot Takes: Solo Founders in the AI Era and the Future of IPOs (00:54:24) Nikunj’s contrarian views on solo founders and whether Canva will go public. About Nikunj Kothari Nikunj Kothari is a Partner at FPV Ventures, where he focuses on early-stage investments with a founder-first approach. Previously, he was a product leader at LinkedIn, Opendoor, and Meter, where he helped scale hypergrowth startups and navigate tough product challenges. Nikunj began angel investing while at Opendoor and later joined Khosla Ventures, before moving to FPV to pursue concentrated, high-conviction seed and Series A investments. Known for his sharp writing on venture and product strategy, Nikunj has become a leading voice on topics ranging from benevolent dictatorships to the future of SaaS pricing. Connect with Nikunj Kothari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikunjk Visit the FPV Ventures website: https://fpvventures.com/ Connect with Matt Cohen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matt-cohen1 Visit the Ripple Ventures website: https://www.rippleventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tanktalks.substack.com

    1시간
  4. The Rundown 9/5/25: The Battle for AI Supremacy, Canada’s Budget Cuts, and Global Trade Shifts featuring Michael Hyatt

    9월 5일

    The Rundown 9/5/25: The Battle for AI Supremacy, Canada’s Budget Cuts, and Global Trade Shifts featuring Michael Hyatt

    In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen is joined by serial entrepreneur and investor Michael Hyatt and prominent Canadian venture capitalist, entrepreneur, and business leader John Ruffolo as they dive into some of the most pressing issues facing Canada and the world today. The conversation begins with a look at the upcoming federal budget, where Michael shares his perspective on the tough choices ahead for Canada's economy, including the potential for significant budget cuts and the challenges of balancing austerity with essential investments. The discussion quickly shifts to the rapidly growing field of artificial intelligence, with Matt, John, and Michael debating the future of AI supremacy. As global tech giants like OpenAI and Google race to dominate the AI market, the team explores how Canada can stay competitive and why the AI boom is not without its risks. With the U.S. and Canada navigating a delicate trade relationship, the episode also delves into the geopolitical shifts that could impact Canada’s role in the global economy. From the impacts of tariffs to the looming question of whether Canada can adapt to the fast-changing digital landscape, this episode covers the critical intersections of politics, tech, and finance. AI Supremacy: Who Will Lead the Tech Revolution? (00:10:03) The discussion quickly shifts to the rapidly growing field of artificial intelligence. With tech giants like OpenAI and Google leading the charge, Michael, Matt, and John discuss how Canada can remain competitive in the AI race and why the industry’s rapid expansion is both exciting and fraught with challenges. Global Trade Shifts: U.S.-Canada Relations and Beyond (00:19:05) As global trade tensions shift, the episode examines Canada’s increasingly complicated relationship with the U.S. From tariffs to the changing nature of global alliances, Matt, Michael, and John discuss how Canada’s economic future could be influenced by geopolitical dynamics and what needs to be done to safeguard the country's position on the world stage. Canada’s Infrastructure Challenges: High-Speed Rail Delays (00:23:19) The team discusses Canada’s slow progress on key infrastructure projects, particularly the high-speed rail project between Toronto and Montreal. Michael and John emphasize the importance of fast-tracking such initiatives to remain competitive on the global stage, contrasting Canada’s delays with rapid infrastructure development in countries like China. AI Bubble: Are We Heading Toward a Tech Crash? (00:25:59) With the explosive growth in AI, the discussion turns to the potential for an AI bubble. Michael predicts that while the technology is revolutionary, many AI startups are destined to fail. The three dive into the reasons behind the bubble, why so many companies won’t survive, and who the true winners will be. The Future of Quantum Computing: Canada’s Path to Leadership (00:30:01) Michael shares his insights on quantum computing, highlighting its potential to reshape industries from healthcare to energy. The team discusses Canada’s role in this rapidly emerging field and whether the country is positioned to be a global leader in quantum technology. The AI Workforce: Replacing Jobs or Creating Opportunities? (00:35:12) The team examines the impact of AI on the workforce. Will AI replace human jobs or create new opportunities for workers? Michael and John discuss the balance between automation and human expertise, especially in industries like real estate, healthcare, and finance. U.S. Federal Reserve and Canada's Economic Impact (00:38:30) The discussion touches on the U.S. Federal Reserve’s policies and how they affect the Canadian economy. Michael talks about the delicate balancing act Canada faces, particularly with rising interest rates and inflation, and how these factors will shape the country’s economic decisions. Connect with Michael Hyatt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelhyatt1/ Connect with John Ruffolo on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/joruffolo Connect with Matt Cohen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matt-cohen1 Visit the Ripple Ventures website: https://www.rippleventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tanktalks.substack.com

    41분
  5. Pioneering the Future of Decentralized Telecom with Samer Bishay of Iristel

    9월 4일

    Pioneering the Future of Decentralized Telecom with Samer Bishay of Iristel

    In this episode of Tank Talks, Matt Cohen sits down with Samer Bishay, a telecom trailblazer and the founder of Iristel, to discuss his journey in revolutionizing Canada's telecommunications industry. From growing a small startup focused on VoIP services into one of Canada's largest independent telecom providers to pioneering decentralized satellite-based solutions, Samer has made a lasting impact in the tech world. Samer shares his experiences of breaking into the telecom market, competing with industry giants like Bell and Rogers, and building solutions for underserved communities. He also delves into the challenges of navigating regulatory hurdles and using cutting-edge technologies like Voice over IP (VoIP) and satellite communications to solve critical connectivity issues in remote regions. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a tech enthusiast, or interested in the future of telecommunications, this episode offers unique insights into telecom innovation, regulatory struggles, and how technology can bridge the digital divide. The Early Spark for Aviation and Space Tech (00:07:04) * From his childhood fascination with planes to studying space technology, Samer talks about his deep interest in aviation and communications, which laid the foundation for his later ventures. Launching Iristel and the VoIP Revolution (00:14:00) * Samer explains how he launched Iristel in 1999, focusing on Voice over IP, disrupting the traditional telecom model, and overcoming technical and regulatory challenges. The Power of VoIP to Disrupt Telecom Giants (00:17:20) * Samer reveals how VoIP technology allowed him to offer significantly cheaper international calls, challenging the industry’s status quo. Connecting Remote Communities in Africa (00:19:43) * A pivotal moment came when Samer deployed servers in Africa to reduce the cost of international calls, ultimately helping underserved communities gain access to affordable telecom services. Battling Regulatory Challenges in Canada (00:27:11) * Samer discusses the regulatory scrutiny faced when launching Ice Wireless and Sugar Mobile, and the lessons for founders entering heavily regulated industries like telecom, healthcare, and insurance. The Vision for a Decentralized Telecom Future (00:39:05) * Samer introduces Karrier One, a company leveraging blockchain technology to decentralize telecom infrastructure and allow communities to control their own connectivity. Taking on the Telecom Industry Giants (00:23:50) * Samer talks about competing against Bell and other telecom giants, and the hurdles that came with scaling Iristel into Canada’s largest independent telecom provider. Exploring the Role of Satellites in Expanding Connectivity (00:30:24) * As a co-founder of Kepler Communications, Samer explains how satellite technology is a game-changer for connecting remote regions and overcoming the limits of traditional telecom infrastructure. The Future of Canadian Innovation and Entrepreneurship (00:45:53) * Samer discusses the future of tech innovation in Canada, how entrepreneurs should navigate regulatory barriers, and the importance of fostering a risk-taking culture. About Samer Bishay Samer Bishay is a pioneering telecom entrepreneur and the Founder of Iristel, Canada’s largest independent telecommunications provider. With a background in VoIP technology, satellite communications, and decentralized telecom networks, Samer has spent over two decades disrupting the industry. He co-founded Kepler Communications to expand satellite connectivity in remote areas and Karrier One, a blockchain-powered platform for decentralized telecom infrastructure. Recognized as one of Canada’s top 25 immigrants, Samer is driven by his mission to bridge the digital divide and create innovative solutions for underserved communities. Connect with Samer Bishay on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samerbishay/ Visit the Iristel website: https://www.iristel.com/ Connect with Matt Cohen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matt-cohen1 Visit the Ripple Ventures website: https://www.rippleventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tanktalks.substack.com

    51분
  6. Are We in a Bubble? Breaking Down AI, Down Rounds, and the Future of Venture Capital with Peter Walker of Carta

    8월 28일

    Are We in a Bubble? Breaking Down AI, Down Rounds, and the Future of Venture Capital with Peter Walker of Carta

    In this episode of Tank Talks, Matt Cohen sits down with Peter Walker, Head of Insights at Carta, to explore the current state of the venture capital ecosystem and emerging startup trends. Peter shares his expertise on the challenges of navigating today's venture market, including how data-driven insights are shaping decision-making for both founders and investors. With his wealth of experience at Carta, Peter discusses the rise of down rounds, the impact of AI on valuations, and the complexities of stacking safes in early-stage fundraising. He also delves into the unique dynamics of later-stage companies, from unicorns struggling with inflated valuations to the evolving landscape of acquisitions and secondary markets. The conversation offers crucial insights on how investors are adapting to the changing market, and how founders should approach funding, cap table management, and navigating the growing emphasis on AI. Whether you're a founder, investor, or LP, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways on venture capital, startup growth, and the future of private tech companies. The Data Visualization Journey (00:03:25) Peter discusses his passion for data and how his experience with visualizing data led him to work on COVID tracking with The Atlantic. Joining Carta (00:06:25) Peter’s transition to Carta and how his role as Head of Insights evolved into a data-driven strategy for the startup ecosystem. Navigating the 2025 Venture Reset (00:09:00) Peter breaks down the shifting dynamics in venture capital, including down rounds and how companies and investors should be preparing. Down Rounds & Valuation Insights (00:12:15) The challenges startups face with down rounds, and what data from Carta reveals about current market trends in startup valuations. The Impact of Safes on Founders (00:14:55) Why Peter believes founders are overusing SAFEs and the long-term consequences for cap tables and company growth. AI's Role in the Venture Landscape (00:17:47) Peter discusses how the AI boom is reshaping venture markets and influencing startup valuations, especially for non-AI companies. Bridge Rounds & the Evolution of Seed Funding (00:21:07) The rise of seed bridge rounds, preemptive funding, and defensive bridge rounds as VCs try to navigate uncertain valuations. Unicorns, Acquisitions & the Future of Late-Stage Companies (00:23:47) What happens to unicorns in a post-boom era, and how acquisitions and down rounds are playing out for companies with inflated valuations. Navigating Secondary Liquidity & Acquihires (00:30:24) A deep dive into secondary markets, acquihires, and the growing trend of liquidity for startups as the market matures. The Future of Venture Capital (00:33:46) Peter discusses his vision for venture capital in 2030, including the implications of rising AI investments and a more consolidated VC ecosystem. Founders and VCs in 2030 (00:37:08) Peter’s predictions for the future of startup funding, with a focus on changing expectations, funding models, and talent acquisition. About Peter Walker Peter Walker is the Head of Insights at Carta, where he leads data-driven research on startup trends and venture capital markets. With a strong background in data visualization, Peter has helped shape Carta’s influential market reports, providing insights into valuations, equity distribution, and venture trends. Previously, he contributed to The Atlantic’s COVID-19 tracking project, gaining recognition for his impactful visualizations. At Carta, Peter leverages data from over 45,000 startups to guide founders and investors in making informed decisions, focusing on cap table management and the evolving venture landscape, particularly the influence of AI. His expertise bridges data analytics and clear communication, helping navigate the challenges of raising capital and scaling startups today. Connect with Peter Walker on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterjameswalker/ Visit the Carta website: https://carta.com/ Connect with Matt Cohen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matt-cohen1 Visit the Ripple Ventures website: https://www.rippleventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tanktalks.substack.com

    50분
  7. The Rundown 8/22/25: Dayforce’s Mega Sale & Why Canada’s Financial Future Hangs on Stablecoins

    8월 22일

    The Rundown 8/22/25: Dayforce’s Mega Sale & Why Canada’s Financial Future Hangs on Stablecoins

    Welcome back to another jam-packed episode of Tank Talks! Host Matt Cohen is joined by John Ruffolo to break down the biggest headlines shaping Canada’s business, tech, and financial future. From the $12.3B privatization of Dayforce, to the Canadian government’s long-overdue embrace of AI startups, and the urgent debate over stablecoins and financial sovereignty, this episode dives deep into the forces reshaping Canada’s economy. Whether you’re a founder, investor, or policy watcher, you don’t want to miss this candid conversation on where Canada is winning and where we risk falling dangerously behind. Dayforce Acquired in $12.3B Mega Sale (01:15) Matt and John unpack Thoma Bravo’s $12.3 billion acquisition of Dayforce, Canada’s largest private tech buyout in history. They discuss why HR software has become a hot consolidation market, the risks of Canadian management talent shifting south, and what this deal signals for the future of SaaS valuations. The Rise of Tender Offers & Canva’s $42B Valuation (06:01) With Canva’s latest employee tender round oversubscribed, John and Matt explore why private markets remain so frothy, how valuation gaps compare to IPOs like Figma’s, and what it means for Canadian scale-ups eyeing liquidity. AI Funding Frenzy: Cohere’s $500M Raise & Government Partnership (07:30) Canadian AI champion Cohere announced a $500M round at a $6.8B valuation and a landmark MOU with the federal government. John and Matt debate whether government procurement can finally support Canadian AI companies and if AI cost curves are sustainable as token prices plummet. The AI Economics Debate: Infrastructure vs. Applications (10:05) With LLM costs dropping and cloud providers cashing in, John and Matt analyze whether the money in AI will flow to infrastructure giants like Nvidia and Microsoft, or to niche application-layer startups battling against the incumbents. Google’s AI Energy Report & The Sustainability Question (13:24) Google claims its Gemini models are 33x more efficient than last year. John questions whether those numbers hold up at scale and what AI’s true carbon footprint means for global adoption. China’s Stablecoin Push & The Threat to Canadian Sovereignty (15:14) China moves toward approving yuan-backed stablecoins, while the US doubles down on dollar-backed alternatives. John warns that Canada’s silence on stablecoin policy risks losing monetary sovereignty, while Matt predicts US dollar stablecoins could eclipse the Canadian dollar within a decade. Why Canadian Entrepreneurs Need “Team Canada” Capital (21:06) Drawing from his recent Substack essay, Chasing the Tornado, John argues that Canada’s biggest risk is capital providers sitting on the sidelines. He calls for pensions, banks, and family offices to invest in sovereign businesses before Canada loses control of key industries. Walking Again with AI-Powered Robotics (23:47) On a personal note, John shares his inspiring first steps in a robotic exoskeleton built by Human in Motion Robotics. He describes how AI-driven rehab tech could transform mobility for millions and why this Canadian innovation deserves global attention. Connect with John Ruffolo on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/joruffolo Connect with Matt Cohen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matt-cohen1 Visit the Ripple Ventures website: https://www.rippleventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tanktalks.substack.com

    27분
  8. Seed Investing in the Age of AI, Crypto & Space Tech with Brett Gibson of Initialized Capital

    8월 21일

    Seed Investing in the Age of AI, Crypto & Space Tech with Brett Gibson of Initialized Capital

    In this episode of Tank Talks, we sit down with Brett Gibson, Managing Partner at Initialized Capital, to explore how the world of venture capital is being reshaped by advancements in AI, crypto, and space technology. Brett’s career has been anything but conventional. From co-founding Posterous with Garry Tan (which was later acquired by Twitter) to rebuilding the platform as Posthaven, and reengineering Y Combinator’s internal software systems, he’s seen it all. Today, as Managing Partner at Initialized Capital, Brett is spearheading investments in emerging sectors like AI infrastructure, crypto technologies, and even asteroid mining. In this conversation, Brett reflects on his journey of building and scaling startups, the transformation of Initialized Capital following its 2024 restructuring, and his thoughts on why AI is outpacing crypto in shaping the future. He also shares his perspective on moonshot investments, including AstroForge’s mission to mine platinum from asteroids, and offers insights into how founders should navigate an era of rapidly evolving technology. This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone interested in the future of venture capital, AI, crypto, and space exploration. How It All Began (00:01:44) Brett’s early years in Los Gatos, his philosophy degree, and how teaching himself to code set him on the startup path. Posterous, Posthaven & Twitter (00:03:27) The lessons from co-founding Posterous with Garry Tan, scaling consumer tech, and rebuilding as Posthaven after Twitter shut it down. Rebuilding YC’s Software Stack (00:09:00) Inside story of rewriting Y Combinator’s internal tools, including applications, demo day, and Bookface. The Evolution of Initialized Capital (00:13:20) How Initialized grew from a $7M fund to billions under management, and the 2024 restructuring that refocused the firm on seed investing. Crypto Infrastructure & Bison Trails (00:17:08) Why Initialized leaned into crypto early, the Coinbase acquisition of Bison Trails, and crypto’s ongoing product market fit problem. AI as Table Stakes (00:28:19) Why Brett believes every startup should leverage AI and why ignoring it puts founders at a competitive disadvantage. Scaling Technical Founders (00:32:48) Common pitfalls for technical founders, why people management is a skill, and how to avoid organizational debt. Moonshots: AstroForge & Beyond (00:34:42) How Brett evaluates deep tech bets like asteroid mining and the role of network density in space investments. The High Bit Podcast & Sharing Founder Insights (00:37:06) Why Brett launched Initialized’s technical podcast and the surprising patterns across founders’ approaches to problem-solving. The Future of AI, Crypto & Space by 2030 (00:40:45) Brett’s vision for the next decade of innovation, and why he believes the world will move faster than ever. About Brett Gibson Brett Gibson is the Managing Partner at Initialized Capital, where he leads seed-stage investments in AI, crypto infrastructure, space tech, and beyond. A former software engineer, Brett co-founded Posterous with Garry Tan (acquired by Twitter), built Posthaven, and spent years at Y Combinator rewriting its internal software systems. At Initialized, he’s led bold bets on companies like Bison Trails, Sequence, AstroForge, and more. Connect with Brett Gibson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brettdgibson/ Visit the Initialized Capital website: https://initialized.com/ Connect with Matt Cohen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matt-cohen1 Visit the Ripple Ventures website: https://www.rippleventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tanktalks.substack.com

    46분
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Join your host, Matt Cohen, Founder & Managing Partner at Ripple Ventures for weekly conversations with leaders in the startup ecosystem discussing the truth about investing, building and running startups. tanktalks.substack.com

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    Ripple Ventures
  • 방송 연도
    2020년 - 2025년
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    283
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    Tank Talks By Ripple Ventures

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