Go Slow to Grow Fast

AI Hype vs Startup Success: Navigating Artificial Intelligence for Better Business

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Artificial intelligence is shaping up to be one of the most transformative technological advancements of the 21st century. Go Slow to Grow Fast Host Heath Butler is joined by executives from 3 vertical AI SaaS companies— Matt Robillard of SmartAC, Collin Mclelland of Digital Wildcatters, and Jeremy Gottlieb of Veritec AI— to break down what’s real, what’s hype, and what’s next for the future of AI in the startup world. Whether you're looking to integrate AI into your business, build an AI first product to take to market, or just trying to keep up with the rapid advancements, this conversation is one you won't want to miss. This episode is part of the Software Day at the Ion series.  


Key Insights & Timestamps: 

  • [00:00]: Podcast begins  
  • [01:26]: Why AI? 3 AI SaaS companies weigh in on tech & data opportunities 
  • [08:05]: Internal & External Leveraging: AI usage from hiring to workflows to system building 
  • [11:05]: Beyond the Hype? Delivering next level customer value during the AI boom  
  • [23:26]: Small Teams, Big Dreams: How do you build a $100M business with 5 employees? 
  • [29:41]: Personal AI Usage: Everyday tasks made easier at work & home 
  • [33:47]: Audience Q&A: AI-first approach, hiring talented teams, & marketing unique models 

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    Key Takeaways: 

    • Building AI-First Companies: “I think if you’re an AI native company, you have the wonderful opportunity of thinking from first principles,” Matt Robillard explains, citing that SmartAC progresses with their AI technology so as to not be hindered by pre-existing workflows. “It’s about really leaning into what this could be.”  
    • Beyond the Hype? “I think the cost curve is coming down dramatically, and for companies like ours, it’s incredibly beneficial,” Jeremy Gottlieb says, diving into how Veritec AI will change the game in the litigation space. “This gives us an opportunity to come in and compete with our larger competitors.” 
    • Big Businesses, Small Teams! “I don’t think I need a team of 50 engineers anymore,” Collin Mclelland admits, explaining that Digital Wildcatters is focused on using AI at every level of their business to build efficient teams, products and systems. “It’s important to hire technical people that understand the [AI] business as well.”  


      • Guest Spotlight: 

      Jeremy Gottlieb 

      Jeremy Gottlieb is the Co-Founder and CEO at Veritec AI, a company offering comprehensive AI-powered solutions tailored for the legal industry. Jeremy is a 2-time founder, a board member, and an advisor.  

       

      Matt Robillard 

      Matt Robillard is the Head of Artificial Intelligence at SmartAC, the first and largest Customer Loyalty Management for HVAC. Matt is an engineer and entrepreneur with software and systems experience.  

       

      Collin Mclelland 

      Collin Mclelland is the Co-Founder and CEO at Digital Wildcatters, a community for the next generation of energy professionals. Collin wants to move the energy industry forward and power the world.  

       

      Heath Butler 

      Heath Butler is a VC at Mercury, an early-stage venture capital firm. Heath is a venture investor, professional board director, startup advisor, author and speaker.  

       

      Resources Mentioned: 

      Mercury | mercuryfund.com, Veritec AI | veritec.ai, SmartAC | hvac.smartac.com, Digital Wildcatters | collide.io, Software Day at the Ion 


      For More Information: 

      Produced by Speakerbox Media. For more episodes, visit MercuryFund.com/Content. 


      Stay Connected: 

      • Heath Butler on LinkedIn 
      • Jeremy Gottlieb on LinkedIn 
      • Matt Robillard on LinkedIn 
      • Collin Mclelland on LinkedIn 
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        Go Slow to Grow FastBy Mercury Fund