Let's Actuate!

Space isn’t just for hardware anymore. In this episode, Rama Afullo, founder and CEO of Satlyt, shares how his team is building a virtual data center in orbit—leveraging software-only solutions to help satellites interconnect and monetize excess compute capacity.

With deep roots at SpaceX’s Starlink and Google Cloud, Rama reveals the realities and breakthroughs of edge computing off-planet, Satlyt’s collaborations with NASA, and how mission-driven innovation is fueling an open, decentralized future for space operators, agencies, and everyday users. The conversation covers interoperability, security, AI-powered optimization, and what the next generation of space entrepreneurship looks like.

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About the Guest

Rama Afullo is founder and CEO of Satlyt, the decentralized software platform turning satellites into interoperable nodes for compute and sensing in space. Prior to founding Satlyt, Rama helped scale Starlink at SpaceX, managed global AI startup programs at Google, and launched energy tech solutions for Tesla in Africa. His “Android-like” vision for Satlyt aims to democratize access, connect diverse satellite operators, and power a new era of in-space cloud and data services.

Learn more at:

• Satlyt.ai

• Satlyt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/satlyt

• Rama on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rama-afullo

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Takeaways

- Rama Afullo's journey from SpaceX and Google to founding Satlyt.

- Satlyt aims to create a virtual data center in space.

- Inter-satellite networks enable monetization of excess compute capacity.

- The importance of interoperability in the space industry.

- Challenges faced by startups in the space ecosystem.

- The role of AI and cloud in satellite optimization.

- Future vision for Satlyt as a major player in the space ecosystem.

- The impact of regulatory frameworks on space innovation.

- Collaboration opportunities with NASA and other agencies.

- Rama's personal insights on the future of space technology.

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Sound bites

- "Interoperability is key in the space industry."

- "AI and cloud are transforming satellite optimization."

- "Satlyt aims to democratize space access."

- "The future of space technology is bright."

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Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction to Rama Afullo and Satlyt

00:03:00 The Vision for Inter-Satellite Networks

00:09:00 Challenges and Opportunities in the Space Industry

00:15:00 The Role of AI and Cloud in Satellite Optimization

00:21:00 Future Vision and Collaboration with NASA

00:27:00 Challenges Faced by Startups in the Space Ecosystem

00:33:00 The Impact of Regulatory Frameworks on Space Innovation

00:39:00 Collaboration Opportunities with NASA and Other Agencies

00:45:00 Rama's Personal Insights on the Future of Space Technology

00:51:00 Closing Thoughts and Future Vision for Satlyt

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#Satlyt #satellite #datacenter #space #spaceindustry #technology #startups #compute #SpaceX #Google #nasa #RamaAfullo #letsactuate #actuateventures

What if companies could thrive like living ecosystems instead of running like machines? Andrew sits down with Dermot Mee, former COO of Singularity University, for an insightful conversation about innovation, mentorship, and the real forces behind progress.

Dermot shares his journey from rural Ireland to the frontlines of global technology and entrepreneurship. He reveals how convergence – the meeting of people, disciplines, ideas, and tools – drives transformation well beyond what linear thinking achieves.

Together, they explore why adaptable cultures, feedback loops, diverse perspectives, and authentic facilitation are essential for future-ready organizations. Dermot offers stories and actionable advice for anyone passionate about meaningful, purposeful change.

Want to build organizations and communities that embrace complexity and collaboration? This episode is for you.

About the Guest
Dermot Mee is a global executive, connector, and advisor, best known as former COO of Singularity University. With a background spanning biotechnology, operations, and startups, Dermot mobilizes diverse networks to solve complex challenges. He is passionate about helping leaders expand boundaries and create spaces for breakthrough ideas.

Connect with Dermot

Takeaways

• Anyone, regardless of origin, can become a key player by staying curious and open to change.
• Lasting organizational impact comes from shaping culture, not just executing projects.
• Permeable boundaries foster quicker learning and innovation.
• Dissent and diverse perspectives fuel leaps forward.
  Honest disagreement creates stronger, more resilient solutions.
• Facilitators must level the field for genuine participation.
• Modeling learning and growth is the best influence.
• Relationship-driven communities drive outsized impact.
• Every team member can bring creativity and resilience.
• Take risks, build, and iterate – instead of waiting for perfect conditions.
• Knowledge and empathy must come before investment or leadership.

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Quotes

• "You live in a live system. You have to create feedback loops."
• "Breakthroughs don’t happen one step at a time. They happen when worlds collide."
• "Collaboration without accountability is fragile. Accountability without trust kills creativity. It’s about balance."
• "It’s not what you say, it’s what you do that defines your impact on culture."
• "Progress comes from connecting people and ideas you’d never predict, but who share a sense of purpose."
• "You might not know everything, but you know someone who does. That’s the power of a true innovation network."

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Chapters

00:00 – Introduction

07:54 – Restructuring Company Operations for Future Success

11:39 – Thinking Exponentially and Embracing Contrary Opinions

16:26 – Creating Safe Spaces for Productive Conversations

23:47 – Foundational Principles for Innovation and Advancement

30:31 – The Power of Mentorship and Development

34:56 – Building Authentic Relationships and Communities

39:08 – Creating a Better Future through Purpose and Shared Vision

42:25 – The Power of Convening and Reconnecting

49:10 – Understanding the Human Brain for Effective Communication

52:25 – Adjusting Presence for Receptivity in Different Environments

58:01 – The Beginning of an Innovative and Entrepreneurial Period

1:05:15 – Creating Environments for Knowledge Transfer and Access

1:08:38 – Entrepreneurship: Taking Action and Embracing Creativity

1:13:51 – Investing in Exponential Technologies: Understanding Your Thesis

1:18:26 – Feedback and Continuous Learning for Growth

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Tags

#LetsActuate, #Innovation, #Technology, #Mentorship, #Entrepreneurship, #Community, #SingularityUniversity, #CorporateRestructuring, #Collaboration, #FutureThinking, #Leadership, #OrgDesign, #SystemsThinking, #PurposeDriven, #TeamDynamics, #Diversity, #Facilitation

What do Wild West stunt shows, M&A deal rooms, and meme-driven syndicates have in common? Colton Cray, now General Partner at Litquidity Ventures, joins Let’s Actuate to share his journey from the Pistoleros stage at Traildust Town to the frontlines of frontier investing.

Colton explores what it means to practice “risk respect,” which separates great founders from the merely bold. He explains why deep expertise in problem spaces and customer relationships – not engineering in stealth – create real traction, especially in tough fields like aerospace, defense, and applied sciences.

You’ll hear how he thinks about technical risk versus market risk, why successful investing means understanding the story behind the numbers, and how “flight to authenticity” is changing both consumer and investor appetites across tech. The group discusses the value of community, learning from hype cycles, and the signals that matter most for building companies that last.

Takeaways

• Practicing “risk respect” is essential for both founders and investors

• Real traction comes from problem obsession and engaging with customers, not from stealth or pitch decks

• Great companies require systems for decision making and a commitment to learning from failure

• The next tech and investment cycle is driven by a flight to authenticity – community, honesty, and experiences that ring true
• Success in tough markets requires understanding compliance, relationships, and how to drive adoption

Sound bites

• “The stunt man to VC pipeline remains strong.”
• “The biggest risk of all is not taking a risk.”

• ⁠Pistoleros Wild West Stunt Show⁠
• ⁠Traildust Town⁠

Venture capital, private equity, and family office models are starting to converge – and the rules are changing.

In this episode, we sit down with Ron Diamond, Chairman & CEO of Diamond Wealth, host of the Family Office World podcast, and trusted advisor to a syndicate of 100+ leading family offices (ranging from $250M to $30B AUM).

Ron unpacks the rise of long-horizon, patient capital, why legacy models in private equity are due for shakeup, and the challenges/opportunities as $84T in wealth transfers to a new, tech-savvy generation.From building trust to the importance of direct investments, the value of educational communities, and the role family offices can play in emerging markets like deep tech and space.This conversation is a can’t-miss for founders, fund managers, and family investors navigating the next wave of private capital!

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Chapters

[00:00] Introduction: Ron’s Journey from Drexel to Diamond Wealth

[03:00] Why Family Offices? Lessons from Wall Street & Hedge Funds

[08:00] Patient Capital: Permanent, Generational Wealth

[11:00] Building Trust: Why Relationships & Reputation Matter

[16:00] Family Office Infrastructure & Minimums

[20:00] Sourcing Deals, Specialization, and VC Lessons

[26:00] Deep Tech, Space, and the Younger Generation's Edge

[34:00] Generational Transition & Embracing Technology

[42:00] The Future: Reviving In-Person Connection, Building Community

[50:00] Personal Goals, Societal Impact & Closing Thoughts

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Connect with Ron Diamond & Diamond Wealth

• Diamond Wealth
• Ron Diamond on LinkedIn
• Family Office World Podcast

Venture capital is evolving. Tune in to an incredibly insightful conversation with Karl Alomar, Managing Partner at M13, to uncover how some firms are shifting beyond simply funding startups, offering hands-on guidance, strategic infrastructure, and a collaborative ecosystem to help founders grow sustainably.

We explore how M13’s proactive support model is empowering startups with essential resources, mentorship, and a connected network to fuel their journey from early-stage challenges to scale-up success. Whether you’re navigating initial hurdles or gearing up for growth, this episode reveals the transformative strategies redefining venture support.

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

03:14 The Importance of Proactive Support and Collaboration

07:31 Delivering Value and Measuring Impact

20:02 M13's Infrastructure and Support System

28:28 Process Orientation for Success

37:26 Surrounding Yourself with the Right People

41:53 The Role of Investors in Supporting Portfolio Companies

45:38 Building a Portfolio Portal and Community

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Connect with Karl Alomar & M13

• Karl on LinkedIn
• Karl on X
• M13 on LinkedIn
• M13 Website
• M13 on X
• https://www.mylifeforce.com/

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Follow the Lets Actuate! Podcast

• https://www.youtube.com/@letsactuate
• https://x.com/letsactuate

Connect with Actuate Ventures

• https://www.letsactuate.com
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/actuateventures

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This episode is brought to you by Siemens Software!

To find out more, email: [email protected]

Launching a deep-tech startup is not only complex, but also painful to progress through the technical milestones associated with product development. Many companies run out of cash due to lengthy product development cycles and failure to hit technical milestones. This is why we’re excited to let our listeners and ecosystem connect with our podcast sponsor, Siemens Industry Software. Specifically, Siemens Xcelerator for Startups software platform (that's Xcelerator with an “X”) helps organizations digitally transform faster. Their startup programs help companies avoid growing pains with access to scalable software. With programs and bundles to support Product Engineering and CAD, Data Management, Simulation, Test, Regulatory and Design Control, these solutions grow with you without eating into your burn rate.

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This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered financial or investment advice. The views and information expressed are solely those of the individuals and do not constitute any endorsement or recommendation for specific investments, securities, or strategies. Always consult with a qualified financial professional before making any investment decisions.

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#LetsActuate #VentureCapital #Startups #M13 #GrowthStrategy #ScalingUp #Founders #StartupSupport #BeyondFunding #VentureEcosystem #SustainableGrowth #Entrepreneurship #Innovation

In this episode, we chat with Matt Curtolo, a seasoned LP with over two decades of experience in alternative investments. Matt shares his journey from being an allocator in private markets to working as an operator in a fintech startup. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by emerging managers in the current fundraising environment, the importance of understanding the 'why' behind investment strategies, and the significance of building a diverse advisory council. Matt emphasizes the human element in investing, the need for authenticity, and the value of creating supportive networks.

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

11:02 Challenges of Fundraising for Emerging Managers

16:41 Importance of Aligning Strategy, Skillset, and Market Resonance

26:50 Longer Time Horizon in Venture Capital

35:48 Manufacturing Liquidity: Strategies for Generating Exits

38:23 Clear Communication and Transparency

40:25 Maintaining Situational Awareness and Avoiding Narrow Focus

45:14 The Value of Building a Network of Diverse Perspectives

48:57 The Significance of Authenticity, Gratitude, and Human Connection

51:25 Creating a Small Council of Advisors for Decision-Making

58:50 The Opportunities and Intellectual Curiosity in the Venture Capital Industry

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Connect with Matt Curtolo

https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-curtolo-caia/

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Follow the Lets Actuate! Podcast• https://www.instagram.com/letsactuate

https://www.youtube.com/@letsactuate

https://x.com/letsactuate

Reach out to Actuate Ventures

• https://www.letsactuate.com
• https://www.actuateventures.co
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/actuateventures

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This episode is brought to you by Siemens Software!

To find out more, email: [email protected]

Launching a deep-tech startup is not only complex, but also painful to progress through the technical milestones associated with product development. Many companies run out of cash due to lengthy product development cycles and failure to hit technical milestones. This is why we’re excited to let our listeners and ecosystem connect with our podcast sponsor, Siemens Industry Software. Specifically, Siemens Xcelerator for Startups software platform (that's Xcelerator with an “X”) helps organizations digitally transform faster. Their startup programs help companies avoid growing pains with access to scalable software. With programs and bundles to support Product Engineering and CAD, Data Management, Simulation, Test, Regulatory and Design Control, these solutions grow with you without eating into your burn rate.

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This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered financial or investment advice. The views and information expressed are solely those of the individuals and do not constitute any endorsement or recommendation for specific investments, securities, or strategies. Always consult with a qualified financial professional before making any investment decisions.

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#VentureCapital #VCInsights #EmergingManagers #AlternativeInvesting #FundraisingChallenges #InvestmentStrategy #VCTrends #CapitalAllocation #LimitedPartners #LPAllocators #AdvisoryCouncils #InvestorNetwork #StrategicAdvisors #LPInsights #AuthenticInvesting #RelationshipDriven #HumanElementInVC #InvestingWithPurpose #AuthenticConnections #CARTAReport #VCTrends2023 #MarketInsights #InvestmentCommunity #VCNetwork #InvestorRelationships

In this episode, we sit down with Amish Patel, founder of Conduit Venture Labs, to discuss how his venture studio is transforming the hardware startup ecosystem. Conduit Venture Labs focuses on co-building and scaling hardware startups in the intersection of physical and digital tech. Amish shares how his studio is creating a database-driven playbook for startup creation, providing early-stage teams with tools, processes, and ongoing support to de-risk the complex journey of hardware development.

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We explore the unique challenges hardware startups face, from the high costs and risks of prototyping to the need for specialized infrastructure and long development cycles. Amish highlights the importance of building common infrastructure across venture studios while allowing for modular funds and specialized verticals. He also discusses the role of the Conduit Fellows Network, which brings together a community of experts to support early-stage companies.

We dive into industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and the built world, which are starting to see increased investment in physical tech and hardware solutions. Amish emphasizes the critical role of strategic partnerships and alignment between co-founders and investors to navigate the hardware landscape. He encourages founders to reach out to venture studios for expertise and resources to accelerate their journey.

Whether you’re a founder, investor, or enthusiast interested in the future of hardware, this episode provides deep insights into how venture studios are shaping the future of physical tech.

Tune in to learn how Conduit Venture Labs is driving innovation and building the hardware companies of tomorrow!

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Amish Patel

05:28 Amish Patel's Background in Multi-Touch Computing

09:19 The Creation of Catalyst and Proprio

15:33 The Focus of Conduit Venture Labs

24:10 The Future of Hardware Venture Studios

26:20 Creating Common Infrastructure and Practices for Venture Studios

32:44 A Database-Driven Playbook with a Strong Focus on Process

39:39 Being the Hardware Co-Founder for Startups

51:37 Co-founder and Investor Dynamics

57:35 The Value of the Venture Studio Community

01:09:28 Opportunities for Investors in Venture Studios

01:14:31 Getting Involved in the Venture Building Space

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Connect with Amish & Conduit Venture Labs•

https://www.conduitventurelabs.com/• https://www.linkedin.com/in/amishpatel/• https://www.linkedin.com/company/conduit-venture-labs

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Follow the Lets Actuate! Podcast• https://www.instagram.com/letsactuate• https://www.youtube.com/@letsactuate• https://x.com/letsactuate

Reach out to Actuate Ventures• https://www.letsactuate.com• https://www.actuateventures.co• https://www.linkedin.com/company/actuateventures–––

This episode is brought to you by Siemens Software!

To find out more, email: [email protected]

Launching a deep-tech startup is not only complex, but also painful to progress through the technical milestones associated with product development. Many companies run out of cash due to lengthy product development cycles and failure to hit technical milestones. This is why we’re excited to let our listeners and ecosystem connect with our podcast sponsor, Siemens Industry Software. Specifically, Siemens Xcelerator for Startups software platform (that's Xcelerator with an “X”) helps organizations digitally transform faster. Their startup programs help companies avoid growing pains with access to scalable software. With programs and bundles to support Product Engineering and CAD, Data Management, Simulation, Test, Regulatory and Design Control, these solutions grow with you without eating into your burn rate.

–––#HardwareStartups #VentureStudios #PhysicalTech #StartupInnovation #TechEntrepreneurship #ScalingStartups #ModularFunds #StrategicGrowth #TechVentures #InnovationEcosystem #VentureBuilding #HardwareInnovation #TechInvesting #ProductDevelopment #EarlyStageStartups #FutureTech #Startups

In this episode, we sit down with Zain Premji, a former consultant at Deloitte and technology strategist at Google, who now leads the charge in revolutionizing the way we communicate and secure data through quantum infrastructure. As the CSO and co-founder of SQS, Zain shares how the company is focused on building the foundational systems required to enable secure, large-scale quantum communication.
–––We explore the challenges of adopting quantum technology — from high costs and backward compatibility issues to the need for an entirely new infrastructure. Zain emphasizes the importance of quantum infrastructure, explaining how SQS is leveraging existing fiber networks and planning the development of quantum data pods across the U.S. to demonstrate the power of secure quantum communication.

We also dive into key industries, such as defense, finance, healthcare, and gaming, which are beginning to explore quantum technologies. Zain stresses the importance of strategic partnerships and long-term thinking for both founders and investors as they navigate this emerging field. He also encourages potential customers to educate themselves and consider being early adopters of quantum technology.

Whether you're an innovator, investor, or simply curious about the future of secure communication, this episode offers invaluable insights into the quantum infrastructure revolution and the role it will play in shaping the future of technology.Tune in to learn how SQS is laying the groundwork for the quantum-powered world of tomorrow!

–––Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background05:07 Transition to Entrepreneurship08:03 Navigating Conversations in Corporate Environments14:13 The Journey of SQS20:51 Effective Storytelling for Quantum Technologies28:15 Building the Infrastructure for Secure Quantum Communication31:39 Future Plans and Partnerships32:18 Building a Quantum Network35:35 Industries Considering Quantum Technology44:43 The Importance of Partnerships46:06 Advice for Founders in the Quantum Space49:18 Considerations for Investors in Quantum Technology54:32 Educating Potential Customers on Quantum Technology

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Connect with Zain & SQS

• https://www.sqs.world• https://www.linkedin.com/in/zainpremji• https://www.linkedin.com/company/secured-quantum-services––– Follow the Lets Actuate! Podcast• https://www.instagram.com/letsactuate• https://www.youtube.com/@letsactuate• https://x.com/letsactuateReach out to Actuate Ventures• https://www.actuateventures.co• https://www.linkedin.com/company/actuateventures–––This episode is brought to you by Siemens Software!To find out more, email: [email protected]

Launching a deep-tech startup is not only complex, but also painful to progress through the technical milestones associated with product development. Many companies run out of cash due to lengthy product development cycles and failure to hit technical milestones. This is why we’re excited to let our listeners and ecosystem connect with our podcast sponsor, Siemens Industry Software. Specifically, Siemens Xcelerator for Startups software platform (that's Xcelerator with an “X”) helps organizations digitally transform faster. Their startup programs help companies avoid growing pains with access to scalable software. With programs and bundles to support Product Engineering and CAD, Data Management, Simulation, Test, Regulatory and Design Control, these solutions grow with you without eating into your burn rate. –––#QuantumInfrastructure #QuantumCommunication #TechInnovation #QuantumTechnology #SecureDataTransfer #FutureOfTech #Entrepreneurship #DeepTech #Innovation #QuantumRevolution #QuantumComputing #EmergingTechnologies #TechFounders #TechInvesting #FutureIndustries #letsactuate