Liftoff with Keith Newman: For Founders looking for a new growth playbook and further inspiration.

Former Journalist, Startup + GTM exec Keith Newman
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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 Maverick Mark Cuban, SuperAngel Ron Conway, Ann Winblad, Mitch Kapor, Steve Blank and Founders of GameStop, Ancestry, JotForm, Fry's, Intuit, and many more. Find 80+ Episodes https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-look-back-a-free-flowing-interview/id1560219589

  1. DEC 16

    Reinventing Back Surgery: Dr. Steve Falowski on SynerFuse’s Breakthrough in Chronic Pain Treatment

    Chronic back pain affects more people than heart disease, cancer, and diabetes combined — yet treatment hasn’t meaningfully changed in decades.In this episode of Liftoff, Keith talks with Dr. Steven M. Falowski, MD, FAANS — Director of Functional Neurosurgery and Strategic Advisor at SynerFuse, the company pioneering a transformational approach to spinal surgery.SynerFuse’s patented e-TLIF procedure blends spinal fusion + neuromodulation in a single surgery, placing electrodes during the operation to prevent the chronic pain that affects nearly 30% of fusion patients today. Early proof-of-concept results show over 80% improvement — a milestone that could reshape the future of spine care.Dr. Falowski breaks down:- Why traditional fusion fails so many patients- How neuromodulation evolved into a proven, minimally invasive therapy- The entrepreneurial challenge of competing with med-tech giants- How a 15-person company is preparing for a nationwide U.S. clinical study- Why AI is accelerating breakthroughs in chronic pain treatmentIf you're interested in med-tech, innovation in regulated markets, or the business of healthcare, this episode is a must-listen.Connect with Dr. Steven M. Falowski: - Website: www.SynerFuse.com - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-falowski-876926118/ 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#MedTech #HealthcareInnovation #ChronicPain #BackPainRelief #Neuromodulation #SpineSurgery #SynerFuse #MedicalTechnology #Entrepreneurship #HealthTech #WellnessInnovation #PodcastEpisode #LiftoffPodcast #HealthcareFuture

    34 min

  2. NOV 26

    The Remote Intelligence Advantage: How LATAM Talent Is Powering the Future of Global Teams

    Luis Derechin is the CEO or NirYu and is the first Mexican citizen to get US venture capital for his startup and was actually successful selling it, a serial founder now leading Nir-Yu a nearshoring business based in Mexico and focused on staffing services from teams across Latin America but Not Just Staffing—A New Way to Build Remote Teams and Save 70%, - Learn what the acronym: REMOTE stands for? - How to Prevent the 73% Offshoring Failure Rate- Catch the highlights from Luis'#1 Amazon bestseller "The Offshore Team Deathtrap"Building a high-performing team doesn’t require Bay Area budgets anymore. In this episode, Keith sat down with Luis, the founder behind the Remote Intelligence Framework, NIR-Yu to explore how top companies are scaling faster and smarter by tapping into world-class LATAM talent.They dive into:- Why offshore hiring often fails — and how to avoid the “offshore trap”- Cultural alignment and time-zone proximity as competitive advantages- Why execution beats ideas every single time- Lessons from raising capital while everyone said it was “impossible”- The mindset founders need to go from survival to scaleWhether you’re a startup founder, team leader, or investor — this episode unlocks a smarter, more resilient way to build global teams that win.🎧 Listen now and discover how Remote Intelligence is reshaping the future of work.Connect with Luis: - Website: https://www.nir-yu.com/ - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luisderechin/ 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#RemoteWork #LATAMTalent #FutureOfWork #StartupJourney #EntrepreneurMindset #TeamBuilding #TechLeadership #HiringStrategies #GlobalTeams #ScalingStartups #LatinAmerica #RemoteHiring #ExecutionMatters

    40 min

  3. NOV 4

    From Meta to Taelor AI: How Anya Cheng Is Using AI to Reinvent Fashion for Busy Professionals

    Meet Anya Cheng, founder and CEO of Taelor AI — a Silicon Valley startup that’s changing how busy men dress. With a background leading product at Meta, eBay, McDonald’s, and Target, Anya now applies AI to help customers look sharp without the hassle of shopping or laundry. Taelor AI uses artificial intelligence to select outfits that fit your lifestyle, size, and goals — helping you look your best for meetings, dates, or life’s big moments. Beyond personal style, Taelor AI also helps reduce clothing waste and carbon emissions by repurposing excess inventory from fashion brands. In this episode, Anya shares:- -Her unconventional path from Taiwan to Silicon Valley - Lessons learned from working in big tech and applying them to startup life - How AI and human stylists work together to deliver a seamless clothing experience - The importance of using your strengths as your superpower - Why sustainability and personalization are the future of fashion 🎧 A must-listen for entrepreneurs, tech innovators, and anyone who secretly hates shopping. Connect with Anya: - Website: https://taelor.style/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anyacheng Experience effortless style with rental and personal styling services: Taelor: Get 25% OFF your first month of men's clothing subscription. Use code: PODCAST25 Sign up at: https://taelor.style/pages/membership Armoire: Get 50% OFF your first month of women's clothing subscription. Use code: ArmoirexTaelorSign up at: https://www.armoire.style/refer/ArmoirexTaelorGive the gift of time, convenience, and effortless style:Taelor Gift Cards: Get 10% OFF Use code: PODCASTGIFTPurchase at: https://taelor.style/products/menswear-rental-gift-cardSubscribe 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#TaelorAI #AnyaCheng #AIInFashion #FashionTech #AIFashion #StartupStory #EntrepreneurJourney #ArtificialIntelligence #AITools #TechInnovation #FutureOfWork #DigitalTransformation #AIDriven #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #WomenInTech #StartupFounder #SiliconValley #BusinessGrowth #Inspiration #SustainableFashion #EcoFriendly #SmartClothing #ConsciousConsumer #FashionRevolution

    33 min

  4. OCT 7

    Fighting Fake Reviews: How Shane Barker and TraceFuse Are Protecting Amazon Sellers

    Did you know nearly half of online reviews are suspicious, with fake reviews projected to influence $787 billion in consumer spending by 2025? In this episode, Shane Barker — CEO and founder of TraceFuse, the first Amazon TOS-compliant negative review removal system — explains the scale of the problem and how his solution is helping sellers fight back. Shane shares:- Why fake reviews damage brands and consumer trust- How TraceFuse uses AI and compliance-based filings to remove unfair reviews- The real financial impact of even a half-star rating drop- Why both startups and big brands should take reviews seriously If you sell on Amazon, you can’t afford to miss this conversation. Connect with Shane:- Website: https://tracefuse.ai/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shanebarker/ 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=f5a14e779777487dApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/liftoff-with-keith-newman/id1560219589Substack: 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 #AmazonSeller #AmazonFBA #EcommerceGrowth #AmazonBusiness #SellerTips #EcommerceMarketing #OnlineSelling #FBACommunity #FakeReviews #ProductReviews #ReviewManagement #ReputationManagement #AmazonReviews #AmazonTools #TraceFuse #CustomerTrust #EntrepreneurLife #StartupTips #SmallBusinessGrowth #DigitalMarketing #BusinessTools #OnlineBusiness

    30 min

  5. OCT 1

    From Tech Sales Leader to Authentic Leadership Coach — Kelli Rivers’ Bold Pivot 🎙️

    🎙️ New Episode Alert! I had an incredible conversation with Kelli Rivers, a former high-tech sales leader who made a powerful pivot into the world of leadership development. Kelli works with high-level leaders to help them reset their identity, expand their capacity, and lead with absolute clarity. In our discussion, she shared how leaders can build trust in their skills, create safe spaces to grow, and unlock their authentic leadership potential. This is a must-listen if you’re curious about: ✅ Making bold career pivots ✅ Leading with authenticity and clarity ✅ Building confidence in your abilities ✅ Reaching your full potential as a leader In this episode we cover: Kelli’s journey from high-tech sales to leadership development coachThe identity reset: how to leave old roles and reframe who you arePractices that expand capacity and clarity in leadership• Creating environments of trust for growth 👉 Tune in now and get inspired by Kelli’s journey and insights! Connect with Kelli: 🌐 kellirivers.com/welcome📧 kelly@kellirivers.com🎁 Free clarity call: reset.kellirivers.com/book-your-free-callSubscribe 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=f5a14e779777487dApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/liftoff-with-keith-newman/id1560219589Substack: 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 #Authenticity #Vulnerability #SelfAwareness #TrueSelf #LeadWithHeart #LeadershipJourney #GrowthMindset #BeYourself #CourageToChange #PersonalGrowth #AuthenticLeadership #Confidence #MindsetShift #LeadershipDevelopment #InnerWork

    22 min

  6. SEP 16

    From Lyft to Climate Tech: Raj’s Journey of Innovation & Impact

    Raj shares his remarkable path from building companies like Snapfish, Fitmob, and Lyft to co-founding Climactic, a venture fund tackling the climate crisis. In this conversation, he reveals lessons on entrepreneurship, pivots, investing in AI & robotics for climate solutions, and coaching founders to lead with resilience. A must-watch for entrepreneurs, investors, and anyone passionate about technology and climate innovation. 👋 Connect with Raj:- ClimacticLinkedIn 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.- SpotifyApple PodcastsSubstackNewman Media StudiosLinkedIn For sponsorship inquiries, please contact: sponsorships@wherewithstudio.com #ClimateTech #CleanTech #Decarbonization #ClimateAction #Sustainability #Innovation #VentureCapital #StartupLife #Entrepreneurship #GreenTech #InvestingInClimate #ClimateLeadership #NetZero #ImpactInvesting #Technology

    43 min

  7. SEP 10

    Opening the Private Markets: Carine Schneider on Democratization, Regulation & Future of Investing

    In this episode, host Keith Newman welcomes Carine Schneider, founding partner at Compass Strategic Advisors and longtime advocate for broader access to private markets. Carine shares her journey from PwC to leading cap table companies and advising global firms, and why she believes the time is right to rethink private market access. She discusses the updates to her book The Democratization of Private Markets, highlighting:- Why she felt compelled to rewrite it just a few years after the first edition.How the UK’s new PISCES framework could inspire U.S. market reform.Recent U.S. policy changes, including executive orders allowing 401Ks to invest in private assets.The ongoing debate: Should private markets remain restricted to professionals, or should everyday investors have access? Along the way, Carine also opens up about her personal milestones, including an upcoming family trip to Hawaii, reminding us that behind market shifts are human stories. Whether you’re an investor, policymaker, or simply curious about the future of private capital, this conversation offers a timely look at where the industry is heading. 👋 Connect with Carine:- Compass Strategic AdvisorsLinkedIn 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.- SpotifyApple PodcastsSubstackNewman Media StudiosLinkedIn For sponsorship inquiries, please contact: sponsorships@wherewithstudio.com #BusinessNetworking #NetworkingSuccess #Entrepreneurship #SuccessStories #StartupLife

    30 min

  8. AUG 22

    VC Secrets: 25-Year Partner Reveals Startup Truth | The Liftoff with Keith Newman

    What 25 years in venture capital teaches you about building billion-dollar startups that founders wish they knew earlier... David Hornik, founding partner at Lobby Capital and former August Capital partner, breaks down the real dynamics between VCs and founders that most entrepreneurs completely misunderstand. From his $50M+ exits including Splunk, GitLab, and Bill.com, David shares why venture capital success isn't about the money - it's about finding the right partnership. In this conversation, you'll discover why the best investors act as collaborators, not gatekeepers, and how startup culture matters as much as your product-market fit. David reveals the misconceptions founders have about what VCs actually look for, the importance of long-term vision alignment, and why building supportive communities around entrepreneurs drives real innovation. Key takeaways for founders: Trust and alignment matter more than just growth metrics Your company culture determines long-term success The best VCs become mentors, not just money providers Staying true to your mission while adapting is crucial for survivalDavid's unique background spans Stanford Computer Music to Harvard Law, plus he created the first VC blog and podcast. He's been honored on Forbes' Midas List and teaches at both Stanford Business School and Harvard Law School. Subscribe for more founder insights and hit the bell for notifications! What's the biggest misconception you had about VCs? Drop it in the comments below. Follow us on our channels for exclusive startup content and behind-the-scenes insights from interviews like this one. SpotifyApple PodcastsYoutubeNewman Media Studios LinkedIn

    36 min
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4.6
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About

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 Maverick Mark Cuban, SuperAngel Ron Conway, Ann Winblad, Mitch Kapor, Steve Blank and Founders of GameStop, Ancestry, JotForm, Fry's, Intuit, and many more. Find 80+ Episodes https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-look-back-a-free-flowing-interview/id1560219589

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