Guest: Benjamin Johnson, CEO of Particle41

Episode Summary: Benjamin Johnson shares how Particle41 helps companies move from AI experimentation to full agentic automation using a Bronze–Silver–Gold framework. He unpacks the societal, ethical, and practical implications of large language models, AI-generated relationships, and AI's role in modern recruiting and marketing operations.

• AI relationships may disrupt emotional development in future generations.
• AI tools enhance creativity in business but can strip away emotional authenticity.
• Bronze–Silver–Gold AI framework helps companies implement AI gradually and responsibly.
• Over-regulation benefits big tech incumbents and can stifle innovation.
• AI agents are already being used in recruiting, support, and proposal creation.

• Particle41 Website
• Gamma for AI Presentations
• Claude by Anthropic
• Read.ai Transcription Tool
• HubSpot CRM
• Colorado School of Mines Athletics

To connect directly with Benjamin or learn more about Particle41's AI consulting services, visit particle41.com.

Guest: Aaron Painter, CEO of GetNametag.com

Episode Overview

Aaron Painter joins the show to explore the urgent need for identity verification in the age of generative AI and deepfakes. As CEO of GetNametag.com, Aaron outlines how mobile-based authentication can protect businesses and individuals from cyber threats, account takeovers, and AI impersonation scams.

Key Takeaways

• Deepfake Threats: AI-generated impersonations are rapidly evolving, posing real risks to businesses and people.
• Outdated Security Methods: Security questions and SMS verification are insufficient in today’s threat landscape.
• NameTag’s Mobile Innovation: Combining ID scanning, facial mapping, and mobile phone data for secure identity verification.
• Enterprise Applications: Used by HubSpot, Autodesk, and others to verify employees and users during onboarding and support interactions.
• AI vs Trust: As AI lowers the cost of deception, Aaron argues that trust must become the new digital currency.

Frameworks

• Identity Verification: ID scan → 3D selfie → phone-based security
• Helpdesk Flow: One-tap verification links to minimize friction
• Reusability Loop: Users can re-verify with a single selfie after first use

Resources

• GetNametag.com – Aaron's company
• Aaron Painter on LinkedIn
• WhisperFlow – AI voice tool
• Claude 4 by Anthropic
• Google Veo
• Tetragrammaton with Rick Rubin

Guest: Mariana Padilla, Founder & CEO of Hackerverse.ai

Summary: Mariana shares how Hackerverse is turning cybersecurity sales into hands-on, testable experiences for buyers. From "World Hacker Games" to instant, AI-generated product demos, Mariana explains how she and her team are slashing POC timelines, building trust through transparency, and creating a community-led growth engine in an industry known for skepticism. She also talks about her unique journey, advice for startup founders, and the looming risks of agentic AI warfare.

Key Takeaways

• Storytelling is critical in technical sales: “Words are our code.”
• Buyers can test software in digital replicas of their own systems—no sales call needed.
• Red team “World Hacker Games” offer real-time validation of cybersecurity products.
• Using generative and agentic AI, Hackerverse can launch vendor POCs in hours.
• Community-building through Discord, immersive branding, and real relationships is core to Hackerverse’s success.

Frameworks & Models

• Digital POC Framework: Self-service product trials in simulated environments.
• Community-Led Growth: Build rabid fans through radical transparency and engaging experiences.
• Beginner’s Mindset: Embrace naivety as a strength when entering technical industries.

Resources

• Hackerverse.ai
• Mariana’s LinkedIn
• Techstars Chicago AI
• OWASP Foundation
• Lydia – Deepfake Detection
• Book: Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind by Shunryu Suzuki

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Guest: Charles Maddock, Co-Founder of Strawberry Browser

Host: Ryan

Episode Overview

In this episode, we delve into the innovative world of Strawberry, an AI-powered browser designed to automate repetitive tasks and enhance productivity. Charles Maddock shares insights into how Strawberry's AI companions learn from user behavior to streamline workflows, from managing emails to conducting research.

Key Takeaways

• AI Companions: Strawberry introduces AI assistants that learn from your actions, automating tasks like data entry, email management, and research.
• User-Centric Design: Emphasis on intuitive interfaces, such as the "glowing button," to simplify user interaction with AI features.
• Privacy and Control: Users maintain control over their data, with options to approve AI actions and assurances about data handling.
• Customization: Users can teach companions specific tasks, tailoring the browser to individual workflows without coding.
• Productivity Boost: Strawberry aims to save users up to 18 hours per week by automating routine tasks.

Frameworks and Concepts

• Agentic Browsing: The concept of AI agents operating within the browser to perform tasks autonomously.
• Human-AI Collaboration: Viewing AI companions as team members that assist with tasks, enhancing human productivity.
• Adaptive Learning: AI companions learn from user behavior to provide personalized assistance over time.

Resources and Links

• Strawberry Official Website
• Strawberry on Product Hunt
• Strawberry LinkedIn Page
• Strawberry AI Browser Review
• Strawberry Use Cases

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In this episode, we delve into the intricate realms of consciousness, artificial intelligence, and the diverse forms of intelligence present in nature. Our discussion encompasses theories from renowned thinkers like Julian Jaynes, Iain McGilchrist, and James Bridle, exploring how these ideas intersect with modern AI developments and our understanding of the mind.

Key Takeaways:

• Bicameral Mind Theory: Julian Jaynes proposed that ancient humans operated with a "bicameral mind," where decisions were guided by auditory hallucinations perceived as commands from deities. This theory suggests that consciousness, as introspective thought, emerged as this system broke down. Learn more.
• Brain Hemisphere Functions: Iain McGilchrist's research highlights the distinct roles of the brain's hemispheres. The right hemisphere offers a holistic view, while the left focuses on details. Modern society's emphasis on analytical thinking may overshadow the integrative perspective of the right hemisphere. Learn more.
• Diverse Intelligences: James Bridle's "Ways of Being" emphasizes the intelligence found in plants, animals, and machines, advocating for a broader understanding of cognition beyond human parameters. Learn more.
• AI Communication: Experiments have shown AI chatbots developing their own languages, raising questions about machine consciousness and the nature of communication.
• Animal Consciousness: The Cambridge Declaration on Consciousness asserts that many non-human animals possess consciousness, challenging human-centric views of intelligence. Learn more.
• From Sides to Synthesis: A tool designed to bridge binary thinking by synthesizing opposing viewpoints, promoting nuanced understanding in complex discussions.

Frameworks Discussed:

• Bicameral Mind: A theory suggesting early human cognition was divided between a commanding and a following part, leading to the emergence of consciousness as we know it.
• Brain Hemisphere Specialization: Understanding the distinct yet complementary functions of the brain's hemispheres and their impact on culture and perception.
• Emergent Intelligence: The concept that intelligence arises from complex systems and interactions, not solely from human-like reasoning.
• Depolarization Techniques: Methods to move beyond binary thinking, fostering synthesis and deeper understanding in debates and discussions.

Resources:

• Books:
  • Ways of Being by James Bridle: Explores diverse forms of intelligence in nature and technology. Learn more.
  • The Origin of Consciousness in the Breakdown of the Bicameral Mind by Julian Jaynes: Introduces the bicameral mind theory. Learn more.
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Guest:

Alex Belotsky, Co-Founder of TestSavant

Host:

Ryan Estes

Episode Summary:

Ryan Estes speaks with Alex Belotsky about the growing risks of agentic AI and how TestSavant helps startups and enterprises protect their applications. Learn how red teaming, compliance mapping, and real-time guardrails can secure your AI systems and protect your users from rogue agents, data leaks, and malicious exploitation.

Key Takeaways:

• AI systems are becoming multi-agent and autonomous, increasing security risks.
• Traditional firewalls don’t stop AI jailbreaks or prompt injection attacks.
• TestSavant helps companies mitigate risk with AI firewalls and continuous red teaming.
• AI can amplify productivity, but must be deployed with proper guardrails and compliance.

The TestSavant AI Security Framework:

1. Governance Mapping (EU AI Act, GDPR, HIPAA, ISO, NIST)
2. AI Red Teaming: Stress testing models for vulnerabilities
3. Real-Time AI Guardrails
4. Enterprise Telemetry to track data and agents
5. Human-in-the-Loop oversight and alerts

Resources:

• TestSavant
• Alex Belotsky on LinkedIn
• AI for Founders Podcast
• Kitcaster

Connect with Alex:

Email: [email protected]
LinkedIn: Alex Belotsky

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Guest: Dave Sifry, Founder & CEO of Warmstart.ai
Host: Ryan Estes, AI for Founders Podcast

Episode Summary

We sit down with Dave Sifry, the legendary founder of Technorati and CEO of Warmstart.ai, to explore how AI can help founders reconnect with the relationships that matter. From building with empathy to managing personal evolution, Dave drops gems that every startup leader should hear.

Key Takeaways

• Build products that solve problems or meet unmet needs
• AI should assist—not replace—human interaction
• Reconnect with your network for organic deal flow
• Mindset: Scarcity blocks growth, abundance invites it

Frameworks

• Warmstart Flywheel: Inbox → Memory AI → Campaigns → Results
• Life Rule of 3: Fun, Income, Service
• Mindset Shift: Scarcity → Abundance

Resources

• Warmstart.ai
• Email Dave: [email protected]
• Technorati (Wikipedia)

Sponsored By

Kitcaster – Booked podcast placements for funded founders. Apply now at kitcaster.com.

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What if your next deal is already hiding in your network?
In this episode, we sit down with David Connors, co-founder and CEO of The Swarm, the AI-powered relationship graph redefining outbound sales. From topping Product Hunt to integrating with platforms like Clay, HubSpot, and Gmail, David shares how to drive revenue through warm intros and network orchestration—no cold emails required.

🔑 Key Takeaways

• Go-to-Network > Go-to-Market: Cold outbound is saturated. Trust-based referrals are the future.
• The Great Ignore: Buyers are overwhelmed. AI tools must prioritize warm, authentic outreach.
• AI Assistants: Tools like Claude, Perplexity, Replit, and Lovable power fast ideation and prototyping.
• Public + Private Data: The Swarm maps your entire network—then enhances it with consented private data.
• Massively Improved Metrics: Higher meeting conversion, win rates, and retention from warm intros.

🧠 Frameworks Discussed

1. Go-to-Network Motion

• Map all company networks: team, investors, advisors, customers
• Score each connection: weak, familiar, strong
• Use intros and multithreading to support deal flow
• Shift from chance to strategic orchestration

2. Relationship Funnel

• Top of Funnel: AI tools filter and qualify at scale
• Bottom of Funnel: Humans build trust, close deals
• Next Wave: AI assistants will nudge you to engage and grow your network

📚 Resources & Tools Mentioned

• The Swarm – Warm intros powered by relationship intelligence
• Clay – Data workflows and enrichment
• The Swarm on Product Hunt – #1 Product of the Day
• Replit, Bolt, Lovable – AI prototyping platforms
• Claude, Perplexity – AI research assistants
• David Connors on LinkedIn

🧪 Try The Swarm

• Free Chrome extension for contact insights
• API access for platform integration
• Built for sales teams, VCs, recruiters, and dealmakers

🎧 Subscribe & Join the Community

• Subscribe to the Newsletter – Weekly founder-first AI strategies
• Listen to the Podcast – Weekly founder conversations
• Join a Workshop – Monthly hands-on AI sessions

Liked the episode? Share it with a founder who needs smarter outbound strategies.

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Guest: Corey Scholibo, Co-founder of Dayo.co
Host: Ryan Estes
Topic: Building a marketplace that pays users to use less social media

🧠 Key Takeaways

• Dayo’s Mission: Reduce screen time by rewarding users with daily credits redeemable for products.
• Unique Model: Incentivizes non-action—logging off instead of engaging.
• Mental Health First: Designed around APA guidance and Surgeon General warnings.
• Reward System: $5/day earned by staying under 30 minutes on selected apps.
• Brand Marketplace: Features top-tier DTC brands (e.g., JBL, Patagonia) and Portland-based businesses.
• Revenue Model: Affiliate margins on redemptions, future plans for Dayo debit card and credit system.
• Traction: 5,000+ users, top 10 on Product Hunt, fully organic launch.

📊 Frameworks Discussed

The Dayo Flow

1. Segment User: Why do they want to reduce screen time?
2. Track Behavior: Apple API monitors usage of selected apps.
3. Behavioral Nudge: Screen pops up after 30 minutes with a reminder.
4. Marketplace Redemption: Redeem earned credits for discounted products.
5. Behavioral Science: Inspired by studies on reward incentives.

Capitalism for Good Framework

• Tool ≠ Outcome: AI and social media can be constructive or destructive based on intention.
• Restorative vs. Extractive: Dayo offers a restorative economic model.
• Reasonable Tech: Encourages boundaries, not abstinence.

🔗 Resources & Mentions

• Download Dayo App
• Corey on LinkedIn
• Corey on Instagram
• APA Social Media Study
• Sweatcoin
• BlueSky Social
• Book Mentioned: Stolen Focus by Johann Hari

🎯 SEO Tags

Dayo app, social media detox, screen time tracking, reward-based app, attention economy, Corey Scholibo, startup founder podcast, AI and social media, mental health tech, Product Hunt fintech

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Redefining spreadsheets with AI: David Kircos of Quadratic

🔑 Key takeaways

• Quadratic brings AI directly into spreadsheets, letting users analyze, manipulate, and visualize data with natural language and Python.
• Unlike black-box chatbots, Quadratic builds transparent methods of analysis, giving users visibility into every formula and line of code.
• Quadratic integrates with databases, PDFs, CSVs, and tools like HubSpot or Google Analytics, making advanced data analysis accessible to anyone.
• AI-powered code generation will soon be the norm. Quadratic lets non-coders interact with data using a full-featured Python environment.
• With 100K users and growing, Quadratic's growth is fueled by product-led virality and influencer marketing.

🧠 Frameworks & product features

1. Method-based AI insight generation

• Instead of vague answers, Quadratic builds a method—formulas, Python, and charts you can audit and adjust.
• Update a number and watch the entire analysis dynamically adjust in real time.

2. integrated spreadsheet + code editor

• Edit Python directly alongside spreadsheet cells.
• Use AI to generate or modify code, with full visibility and control.

3. product-led virality

• Real-time multiplayer collaboration with shared links.
• Use-case-driven growth (product managers, marketers, analysts) leads to peer-to-peer adoption inside teams.

📚 Resources & links

• Try Quadratic – Free and Pro plans available
• Follow David on X
• Betaworks – Early backer
• Catapult Ventures – Lead pre-seed investor
• Google Ventures – Institutional investor

💼 About the guest

David Kircos is the co-founder and CEO of Quadratic, an AI-powered spreadsheet tool for data analysis. With a background in app development, neobanks, and data science, David is on a mission to help teams better understand their data through transparent, AI-assisted workflows.

📊 pricing & use cases

• Free Plan: Robust access for solo users
• Pro Plan: $18/user/month billed annually
• Use Cases: Startup metrics, P&L review, CRM segmentation, product analytics, AI-powered spreadsheet modeling

🔍 keywords

ai spreadsheets, quadratic ai tool, david kircos interview, best spreadsheet for data science, python spreadsheets, google sheets alternative, ai financial analysis, startup data tools, ai product founders, chat with data, spreadsheet automation with ai

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