Is it even possible anymore for established companies to innovate like startups while leveraging their existing strengths? Today's guest certainly thinks so and he has the product story to back it up.

Ben Brown, CTO of Canopy, shares his journey of spinning out a hardware+software startup from Ford Motor Company and launching an innovative truck security product in just 18 months. Canopy helps secure precious cargo in pickup truck beds - a huge problem for tradespeople who carry expensive tools and equipment as they commute between jobs. Ben discusses balancing startup agility with automotive industry rigor, rapidly iterating on hardware prototypes, and using customer research to drive product decisions.

We explore how Canopy went from idea to launch in 18 months - particularly impressive for a product combining hardware, software, and AI/ML models, while complying with stringent automotive and FCC requirements.

In this episode:

• Canopy's journey from Ford spinout to standalone startup
• Challenges of hardware development timelines and component sourcing
• Importance of customer research and beta testing
• Organizing cross-functional teams across hardware, software, and AI
• Using AI and generative models to accelerate development
• Balancing startup speed with automotive industry standards
• Lessons from rapidly prototyping and iterating on hardware
• Leveraging Ford's resources while maintaining startup flexibility

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Products and Services mentioned in this episode:

• Whoop fitness tracker
• Canopy Pickup Cam
• Home Assistant
• Sense home energy monitor
• Husqvarna robotic lawn mower
• Mom Test by Rob Fitzpatrick

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