On this episode, Matt Butler and Ali Manning engaged in a candid discussion regarding their respective companies, Bonsai and Chalice. They focused on the challenges of raising funds amidst economic difficulties, with Butler sharing the impact of bankrupt clients on Bonsai's business. Manning provided insights into Chalice's transition to a custom AI company, emphasizing the role of data science in optimizing ad campaigns. Both participants reflected on their experiences at Google, noting a cultural shift towards conservatism and the importance of industry collaboration to navigate competitive pressures. They highlighted the need for smaller tech companies to work together instead of competing against larger firms like Google and Meta, fostering a collaborative ecosystem to enhance growth and innovation.