Future Factory

Anthony Amunategui
  • 5.0 (11)
  • BUSINESS
  • UPDATED DAILY

The Future Factory Podcast is your go-to business podcast for seeing the future in real time. Hosted by founder of CDO Group, Anthony Amunategui, where he is joined by some of the most influential and respected guests in the business world. From young entrepreneurs changing the world via startups, to leaders of established big name brands across the world.

  1. 22H AGO · VIDEO

    How Investors Decide If Your Company Is Ready to Scale | Isabelle Tashima

    Summary In this episode, Anthony sits down with Isabelle Tashima to break down what it really takes to raise growth capital — and when founders shouldn’t raise at all. Isabelle pulls back the curtain on how investors evaluate companies post product-market fit, why capital should accelerate what’s already working (not fix what’s broken), and what separates scalable businesses from those that stall out. They explore sustainable growth, capital efficiency, AI’s impact on company building, and the brutal mistakes founders make when chasing funding too early. This conversation is a must-listen for entrepreneurs navigating the jump from startup traction to real, durable scale. Special Guest Isabelle Tashima is a growth equity investor at Volition Capital, where she partners with founders scaling capital-efficient, category-defining businesses. Prior to Volition, she worked in middle-market M&A at Goldman Sachs before earning her MBA and transitioning into growth investing. Isabelle focuses on companies post product-market fit, helping founders accelerate sustainable growth while avoiding the common traps of premature scaling and misaligned capital partners. Chapters: 00:00 - From startup to scale: introducing Isabelle and today’s topic 01:07 - Should you raise capital? Sustainable, repeatable growth 03:04 - Post–product-market fit: signals investors want to see 05:19 - Capital efficiency, cash discipline, and organic traction 07:39 - Big markets, niches, and competing in crowded spaces 08:27 - AI’s impact on company building and investing 10:23 - Fast-changing markets and why team agility matters 12:33 - Capital for “good to great”: partnering with efficient founders 13:40 - Value beyond the check: hiring, marketing, and portfolio support 16:35 - Lessons from deals, contrarian bets, and the Chewy example 19:06 - Isabelle’s path from Goldman to growth equity and hard truths on fundraising ISABELLE’S INFO: Website: https://www.volitioncapital.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelle-tashima-780065135/ PODCAST INFO: Website: https://FutureFactory.live Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0SsZRdrvWTUs1QY6Zu1sU6 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/future-factory/id1659895549 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/207e04aa-11a1-4b28-964a-148608422a49/future-factory   FUTURE FACTORY SOCIAL: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/futurefactorypodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/FutureFactoryFF Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/futurefactorypodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/futurefactorypodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@futurefactorypodcast?_t=8ZIxAf4Orra&_r=1 ANTHONY'S SOCIAL: Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/anthonyamunategui/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anthony.amunategui.3 Find great guests at PodMatch https://www.joinpodmatch.com/futurefactorypodcast

    30 min

  2. 5D AGO · VIDEO

    Stop Chasing Tools - Automate Your Business the Right Way | Ghazenfer Mansoor

    Summary In this episode, Anthony sits down with Ghazenfer Mansoor to unpack what it really takes to automate a business in a practical, scalable way. They break down why most companies fail at AI adoption by chasing tools instead of fixing broken processes, how bottlenecks quietly drain time and revenue, and why “people-powered growth” eventually limits scale. From construction and manufacturing to service businesses and startups, this conversation explores how automation, knowledge capture, and system-driven workflows create efficiency, resilience, and long-term enterprise value. This episode is a straight-talk guide for leaders who want to future-proof their organizations without overwhelming their teams. Special Guest Ghazenfer Mansoor is a technology strategist, automation expert, and founder of Technology Rivers, where he helps companies design and implement AI-driven systems that remove operational bottlenecks and reduce human dependency. With deep experience across construction, manufacturing, software, and professional services, Ghazenfer works with leadership teams to shift from people-powered growth to system-powered growth — building scalable processes that increase profitability, speed, and valuation. He is known for translating complex AI concepts into practical workflows that businesses can implement immediately. Chapters: 00:00 - Intro, show setup & why automate with AI 01:05 - Where to start: mapping bottlenecks instead of chasing tools 03:18 - Construction case study: automating bids & project handoff 07:15 - Opportunity cost: lost bids and slow preconstruction prep 10:06 - Bottlenecked by experts: VPs, approvals & knowledge hoarding 15:43 - Radical impeccability: cameras, meeting recordings & trust 20:38 - Future-proofing: from people-powered to system-powered growth 24:36 - Change resistance: starting small with simple automations 30:02 - “AI will take my job?” Reframing work as bigger, bolder, more human 34:50 - Kids, college & careers in an AI world 39:25 - Differentiating yourself: standing out in an AI-saturated job market 43:20 - Practical steps to future-proof & how to work with Ghazenfer GHAZENFER’S INFO: Company: Technology Rivers – https://technologyrivers.com/ Website: https://ghazenfer.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gmansoor/ PODCAST INFO: Website: https://FutureFactory.live Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0SsZRdrvWTUs1QY6Zu1sU6 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/future-factory/id1659895549 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/207e04aa-11a1-4b28-964a-148608422a49/future-factory   FUTURE FACTORY SOCIAL: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/futurefactorypodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/FutureFactoryFF Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/futurefactorypodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/futurefactorypodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@futurefactorypodcast?_t=8ZIxAf4Orra&_r=1 ANTHONY'S SOCIAL: Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/anthonyamunategui/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anthony.amunategui.3 Find great guests at PodMatch https://www.joinpodmatch.com/futurefactorypodcast

    47 min

  3. FEB 4 · VIDEO

    Why Most Startups Never Get Funded | Andrew Ackerman

    Summary In this episode, Anthony sits down with Andrew Ackerman, a seasoned investor, accelerator leader, and startup coach, to break down what actually gets startups funded in today’s AI-driven economy. Andrew explains why we’re living in both the best and worst of times for founders, how AI has radically lowered the cost of building companies, and why investors now expect startups to go further with less capital. The conversation dives deep into product–market fit, revenue as the ultimate proof point, founder mindset, and why solving one painful problem extremely well beats building ten mediocre features. This episode is a masterclass for entrepreneurs navigating funding, growth, and decision-making in a rapidly changing world. Special Guest Andrew Ackerman is a serial entrepreneur, investor, and former accelerator leader who has worked with thousands of startups across construction tech, real estate tech, and emerging technologies. He is the author of The Entrepreneur’s Odyssey, a storytelling-driven guide to building resilient startups, avoiding common founder traps, and learning faster through experimentation. Andrew is known for helping founders de-risk their ideas, sharpen their thinking, and build companies that investors actually want to back. Chapters: 00:00 - Intro to Andrew Ackerman & “best of times, worst of times” for startups 02:30 - How AI and modern tools slash startup costs (and raise investor expectations) 06:00 - Revenue as proof: product‑market fit, pricing, and market size 09:00 - Construction tech robots: trash chutes, wall crawlers, and safety at height 12:30 - 3D printing and prefab buildings: speed, shipping, and real‑world constraints 17:30 - Testing ideas cheaply: “index card app” method and why construction is hard 21:30 - MVP thinking: focus on the one killer feature, not 10 minor upgrades 26:30 - Founder mindset: hypotheses, experiments, and avoiding “weather vane” behavior 31:30 - Building the right team: “Friends cast” roles and the puzzle corner‑pieces analogy 36:30 - Storytelling that sticks: accelerator lessons, SeatGeek pivot, and Andrew’s book 42:30 - Future‑proofing entrepreneurs: rapid disruption, AI adoption, and final advice ANDREW’S INFO: Website: https://www.andrewbackerman.com/ Book: The Entrepreneur’s Odyssey [Available on Amazon] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewbackerman/ PODCAST INFO: Website: https://FutureFactory.live Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0SsZRdrvWTUs1QY6Zu1sU6 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/future-factory/id1659895549 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/207e04aa-11a1-4b28-964a-148608422a49/future-factory   FUTURE FACTORY SOCIAL: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/futurefactorypodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/FutureFactoryFF Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/futurefactorypodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/futurefactorypodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@futurefactorypodcast?_t=8ZIxAf4Orra&_r=1 ANTHONY'S SOCIAL: Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/anthonyamunategui/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anthony.amunategui.3 Find great guests at PodMatch https://www.joinpodmatch.com/futurefactorypodcast

    51 min

  4. JAN 30 · VIDEO

    From $50M Lost to $50M Comeback | Rod Khleif

    Summary In this episode, Anthony sits down with Rod Khleif to unpack his journey of building massive wealth in commercial real estate, losing over $50 million during the 2008 crash, and the mindset that allowed him to come back stronger. Rod breaks down the principles that drive long-term success — goal setting, taking decisive action, overcoming fear, focus, gratitude, and surrounding yourself with the right people. Together, they explore what it really takes to achieve financial freedom, why most people stay stuck, and how anyone willing to do the work can design a life of purpose, abundance, and impact. Special Guest Rod Khleif is a real estate investor, entrepreneur, and mindset coach with over 40 years of experience in multifamily and commercial real estate. He has owned thousands of rental units, built dozens of businesses, and hosts one of the largest commercial real estate podcasts in the world. Rod is widely known for his high-energy teaching style, deep focus on mindset, and commitment to helping others achieve financial independence while living a life of service. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Rod’s background in real estate 03:10 - Early struggles and family influences 06:15 - Mindset, psychology, and keys to success 09:00 - Overcoming fear and taking the first step 12:00 - Limiting beliefs and changing your story 15:00 - Family history, immigrant stories, and redefining goals 17:30 - The impact of technology, AI, and adapting for the future 19:50 - The power of focus, meditation, and reducing distractions 22:30 - Building networks and surrounding yourself with motivators 25:30 - The importance of gratitude and fulfillment 28:30 - Giving back, life lessons, and final calls to action ROD’S INFO: Website: https://rodkhleif.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/RodKhleif Bootcamp & Free Resources: https://rodkhleif.com/links/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodkhleif/ PODCAST INFO: Website: https://FutureFactory.live Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0SsZRdrvWTUs1QY6Zu1sU6 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/future-factory/id1659895549 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/207e04aa-11a1-4b28-964a-148608422a49/future-factory   FUTURE FACTORY SOCIAL: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/futurefactorypodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/FutureFactoryFF Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/futurefactorypodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/futurefactorypodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@futurefactorypodcast?_t=8ZIxAf4Orra&_r=1 ANTHONY'S SOCIAL: Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/anthonyamunategui/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anthony.amunategui.3 Find great guests at PodMatch https://www.joinpodmatch.com/futurefactorypodcast

    34 min

  5. JAN 28 · VIDEO

    Why Most Entrepreneurs Fail at Vision | Bryan Smeltzer

    Summary In this episode, Anthony sits down with Bryan Smeltzer to break down what true vision really means — and why most entrepreneurs struggle to define, communicate, and execute it. Drawing from Bryan’s experience working inside iconic brands like Oakley, Nike, and TaylorMade, the conversation explores what separates visionary leaders from those who merely chase money or stay busy without direction. They discuss future-casting, discipline, faith, focus, and the daily habits that help leaders move forward instead of staying stuck. This episode is a deep dive into leadership clarity, authentic vision, and building brands that last. Special Guest Bryan Smeltzer is a brand strategist, author, and founder of LiquidMind, where he helps leaders and organizations develop clarity, vision, and execution at scale. He is the author of The Visionary Brand and The Visionary Leader, and has worked closely with legendary companies and founders to understand what truly drives innovation and long-term success. Bryan’s work focuses on helping entrepreneurs move beyond distraction, build authentic leadership foundations, and translate vision into action. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction: What Is Visionary Leadership? 05:40 - Discussing Iconic Visionaries: Jobs, Musk, and Gennard 11:05 - Passion Over Profit: The Drive Behind Visionaries 16:30 - Disruption and Future Casting in Business 21:40 - Faith, Resilience, and Personal Sacrifice 27:10 - Focus, Execution, and Honest Self-Assessment 32:20 - Turning Vision into Action: Daily Practices 37:30 - Building Strong Teams and Brand Culture 43:00 - Authenticity, Failure, and Learning to Say No 48:30 - Discipline, Clarity, and Avoiding Distraction 54:10 - Staying Committed: Long-Term Vision and Final Advice BRYAN’S INFO: Website: https://bryansmeltzer.com/ LiquidMind: https://liquidmindsite.com/ Books: The Visionary Brand & The Visionary Leader [Available on Amazon] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryansmeltzer/ PODCAST INFO: Website: https://FutureFactory.live Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0SsZRdrvWTUs1QY6Zu1sU6 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/future-factory/id1659895549 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/207e04aa-11a1-4b28-964a-148608422a49/future-factory   FUTURE FACTORY SOCIAL: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/futurefactorypodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/FutureFactoryFF Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/futurefactorypodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/futurefactorypodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@futurefactorypodcast?_t=8ZIxAf4Orra&_r=1 ANTHONY'S SOCIAL: Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/anthonyamunategui/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anthony.amunategui.3 Find great guests at PodMatch https://www.joinpodmatch.com/futurefactorypodcast

    1h 2m

  6. JAN 23 · VIDEO

    AI Businesses That Will Explode in 2026 | Michael Elliott

    Summary In this episode, Anthony welcomes back AI entrepreneur and creator Michael Elliott to break down the six most powerful AI business opportunities to focus on in 2026. Michael walks through a ladder of models — from beginner-friendly AI virtual assistants and content repurposing services, to AI automation agencies, lead generation engines, micro-SaaS products, and high-stakes AI security and governance consulting. Along the way, they talk about how to stop chasing every new shiny tool, why mastering one model matters more than hype, and how to think in terms of value, data, and outcomes instead of hours. This conversation is a roadmap for anyone who wants to build a real AI-powered business instead of just playing with prompts, with honest insight into difficulty, pricing, risk, and what it actually takes to scale. Special Guest Michael Elliott is an AI strategist, entrepreneur, and creator behind the YouTube channel “Michael Elliott AI,” where he teaches people how to build real businesses using artificial intelligence, automation, and no-code tools. Having grown multiple seven-figure companies and implemented AI systems for brands ranging from SMEs to larger organizations, he now focuses on helping founders and operators design AI virtual assistants, automation stacks, lead-gen engines, and scalable micro-SaaS products. Michael’s work blends practical tech execution with clear business thinking, giving entrepreneurs a repeatable way to spot opportunities, eliminate bottlenecks, and turn AI from a buzzword into revenue. MICHAEL'S INFO: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@michaelelliottai  Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/michaelelliottai Instagram: instagram.com/michaelelliott.ai Facebook: facebook.com/michaelelliottai PODCAST INFO: Website: https://FutureFactory.live Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0SsZRdrvWTUs1QY6Zu1sU6 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/future-factory/id1659895549 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/207e04aa-11a1-4b28-964a-148608422a49/future-factory   FUTURE FACTORY SOCIAL: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/futurefactorypodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/FutureFactoryFF Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/futurefactorypodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/futurefactorypodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@futurefactorypodcast?_t=8ZIxAf4Orra&_r=1 ANTHONY'S SOCIAL: Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/anthonyamunategui/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anthony.amunategui.3 Find great guests at PodMatch https://www.joinpodmatch.com/futurefactorypodcast

    1h 9m

  7. JAN 21 · VIDEO

    Bitcoin, Mining, and the Future of Money | Beau Turner

    Summary In this episode, Anthony sits down with Beau Turner of Abundant Minds to finally demystify Bitcoin in a way everyone can understand. Together they break down what Bitcoin is, how the blockchain actually works, and why proof of work, mining, and fixed supply make it fundamentally different from the traditional monetary system we take for granted. Beau uses clear real-world comparisons—gold, real estate, email, even PO boxes—to explain where Bitcoin “lives,” how transactions are verified, and why the network is nearly impossible to hack. They also dive into the emotional side of learning something new, the fear of the unknown, and why understanding Bitcoin today is similar to learning the internet or AI before they transformed the world. The episode closes with a practical conversation on Bitcoin mining as an investment, the tax advantages, the economics of mining vs buying, and how Abundant Minds helps everyday investors participate without building a server farm in their garage. Special Guest Beau Turner is a Bitcoin educator and mining operator with Abundant Minds, a company focused on making Bitcoin mining accessible to individual investors through professionally managed infrastructure and education. A former full-time real estate investor, Beau now helps people understand Bitcoin as both a technology and an asset, teaching how mining works, how the network stays secure, and how individuals can accumulate Bitcoin in a more strategic, capital-efficient way. His work sits at the intersection of finance, energy, and technology, with an emphasis on long-term thinking and financial sovereignty. BEAU INFO: Website: https://abundantmines.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beau-turner-445732251/ Youtube: https://www.youtbe.com/@AbundantMines/videos PODCAST INFO: Website: https://FutureFactory.live Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0SsZRdrvWTUs1QY6Zu1sU6 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/future-factory/id1659895549 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/207e04aa-11a1-4b28-964a-148608422a49/future-factory   FUTURE FACTORY SOCIAL: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/futurefactorypodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/FutureFactoryFF Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/futurefactorypodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/futurefactorypodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@futurefactorypodcast?_t=8ZIxAf4Orra&_r=1 ANTHONY'S SOCIAL: Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/anthonyamunategui/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anthony.amunategui.3 Find great guests at PodMatch https://www.joinpodmatch.com/futurefactorypodcast

    1h 4m

  8. JAN 16 · VIDEO

    The Future of Cosmetic Surgery: Awake, Safer, More Natural | Dr. Suissa

    Summary In this episode, Anthony talks with Dr. Daniel Suissa about the new frontier of cosmetic surgery — from awake procedures to safer, natural-looking results powered by advanced technology. Dr. Suissa explains how social media has shaped unrealistic beauty standards and why his philosophy focuses on enhancing a patient’s natural features rather than turning them into someone else. They dive into topics like body shaming, the rise of GLP-1 medications, and how confidence and emotional well-being intersect with cosmetic procedures. Dr. Suissa also highlights the innovative surgical tools he developed to improve safety, comfort, and recovery. This conversation offers an honest, modern look at cosmetic surgery and the empowerment it can create when done with intention. Special Guest Dr. Daniel Suissa is a leading cosmetic and reconstructive surgeon known for combining cutting-edge technology with an artistic approach to natural body contouring. With thousands of procedures performed, he is recognized for pioneering awake surgery techniques, creating custom surgical tools, and advancing safer methods for fat transfer, breast enhancement, and body sculpting. His work blends medical precision, innovation, and a passion for helping patients rediscover confidence — all while minimizing risk, pain, and downtime. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction & Welcome to Dr. Suissa 02:52 - Addressing Fears and Expectations in Cosmetic Surgery 05:45 - The Role of Social Media and Body Image 08:37 - Medications, Lifestyle Change, and Surgery Motivation 11:30 - Technology & Artistic Approaches in Cosmetic Surgery 14:22 - Innovations: Using Patients’ Own Fat & Local Anesthesia 17:15 - Consultation Process: Remote and In-Person 20:07 - Preparing for Surgery: Health, Mindset, and Recovery 22:59 - Recovery Insights and Pain Management 25:52 - Common Procedures: Breast Enhancement and Outcomes 28:44 - Patient Experiences, Contact Info & Closing Remarks DR. SUISSA’S INFO: Website: www.squlptbody.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-suissa-md-a64168140/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@squlpt PODCAST INFO: Website: https://FutureFactory.live Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0SsZRdrvWTUs1QY6Zu1sU6 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/future-factory/id1659895549 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/207e04aa-11a1-4b28-964a-148608422a49/future-factory   FUTURE FACTORY SOCIAL: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/futurefactorypodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/FutureFactoryFF Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/futurefactorypodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/futurefactorypodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@futurefactorypodcast?_t=8ZIxAf4Orra&_r=1 ANTHONY'S SOCIAL: Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/anthonyamunategui/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anthony.amunategui.3 Find great guests at PodMatch https://www.joinpodmatch.com/futurefactorypodcast

    31 min
See All (100)

5
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

The Future Factory Podcast is your go-to business podcast for seeing the future in real time. Hosted by founder of CDO Group, Anthony Amunategui, where he is joined by some of the most influential and respected guests in the business world. From young entrepreneurs changing the world via startups, to leaders of established big name brands across the world.

Information

  • Creator
    Anthony Amunategui
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2024 Future Factory
  • Show Website
    Future Factory