Machine Minds

Machine Minds

By Greg ToroosianTechnology
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Machine Minds episodes

  • Episode 31 | Building for Near Instantaneous Deliveries | Canon Reeves

    In this episode of Machine Minds, we dive into the fascinating world of autonomous systems with our guest, Canon Reeves, the CTO and co-founder of Pipedream, is at the forefront of delivery systems with an autonomous underground rail network that’s working on near-instantaneous delivery to and from homes and businesses.
    Join us as we explore Canon's journey, from his early obsession with robots to his bold decision to drop out of college after being exposed to the start ups world. We'll delve into how his exposure to the funding landscape ignited his entrepreneurial spirit, leading him to build his first company. 
    Whether you're a tech enthusiast, an aspiring entrepreneur, or simply curious about the next big thing in delivery technology, this episode is packed with inspiration and innovation. Tune in to discover how Canon Reeves is pushing the boundaries of what's possible with Pipedream and changing the way we think about delivery
    00:00 Machine Minds Show Introduction 
    01:17 Canon’s journey before Pipedream
    02:54 The world of robotics
    04:57 Creating Pipedream
    06:22 Tech companies and challenges
    09:28 Moving from the idea phase to development
    12:28 Key lessons learned in the tech industry
    13:43 Sales that drive product development
    19:36 Recruiting people 
    22:46 Growth plans
    24:15 Early days experiences
    25:30 The future of robotics and AI
    30:25 How Pipedream plans to evolve in the coming years
    37:40 Advice for entrepreneurs
    39:33 Importance of having a Co-Founder

    More about Pipedream
                          pipedreamlabs.co                
    More about our guest, Canon Reeves
                 linkedin.com/in/canonreeves           


    Machine Minds:
    Apple Podcast:
    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1apGh7x...
    Google Podcast:
    https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0...

    Youtube: https://youtube.com/@machinemindsshow
    Let’s connect on social media:
    IG: https://www.instagram.com/machinemindsshow/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregtoroosian/


    42 min
  • Episode 30 | Enabling Robotics Companies To Deploy, Scale & Manage Fleets | Jeff Linnell

    In this episode of the Machine Minds podcast, host Jeff Linnell, the Founder and CEO of Formant, takes us on a journey through the inception and growth of his company. Formant is a leading provider of robotic fleet management software that helps companies optimize their operations through data-driven insights.
    Jeff Linnell shares the story of how Formant came to be. He delves into the initial idea behind the company, the challenges faced in the early days, and the pivotal moments that shaped Formant into what it is today. 
    Linnell discusses Formant’s vision for the future of robotics and automation. He elaborates on the company’s mission to empower businesses with cutting-edge technology solutions that drive efficiency, productivity, and innovation. Through real-world examples and case studies, he illustrates how Formant is revolutionizing industries through its advanced software platform.
    Tune in and gain valuable knowledge from one of the industry’s leading innovators.
    Time stamps:
    00:00 Machine Minds Show Introduction
    01:19 Jeff’s path into Robotics and Technology
    06:54 Key positions in Tech Companies 
    10:56 Approach to talent acquisition
    12:24 Formant’s mission
    19:42 Customer’s feedback
    24:22 Hurdles in the earliest days 
    31:33 How to build a successful company
    38:57 Skills to look for when hiring
    45:56 The Future of Robotics and AI
    49:10 Advice for Entrepreneurs
    Formant Report
    https://formant.io/resources/state-of-raas-2024/
    More about Formant
    https://www.linkedin.com/company/formantinc/

    More about our guest, Jeff Linnell
    linkedin.com/in/jeff-linnell-065647ab

    Machine Minds:
    Apple Podcast:
    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1apGh7x...
    Google Podcast:
    https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0...

    Youtube: https://youtube.com/@machinemindsshow
    Let’s connect on social media:
    IG: https://www.instagram.com/machinemindsshow/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregtoroosian/

    54 min
  • Episode 29 | Investing in Groundbreaking Technology Companies | Sanjay Aggarwal

    In today's episode of The Machine Minds Show, we delve into the fascinating world of F-Prime Capital with our special guest, Sanjay Aggarwal, Venture Partner  of the company. 

    F-Prime Capital’s mission is to create and invest in healthcare and technology companies that impact lives all over the world. For the last forty years, their venture capital group has had the privilege of backing other great entrepreneurs as they built ground-breaking companies in technology and life sciences, including Atari, MCI, ROLM Corp., Alibaba, Ironwood Pharmaceuticals, and Ultragenyx.

    This episode promises to be a thought-provoking and enlightening conversation. 
    Join us and watch how Sanjay Aggarwal journey and accomplishments serve as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and innovators seeking to make a positive impact on the world of robotics.

    Time Stamps
    00:00 Machine Minds Show Introduction 
    00:33 Journey Into Venture Capital and Robotics 
    07:28 The Importance of Collaborations 
    11:37 Selection Criteria of Investments in Robotics 
    16:42 Threads in the Robotics Industry 
    24:19 Understanding the Business Use Case 
    25:04 Challenges of Innovation in Robotics 
    27:32 Opportunities of Growth in Robotics  
    30:52 Exit Strategies of Robotics Companies  
    37:53 Advice for Investors in Robotics  
    39:46 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs in Robotics  
     
     F-Prime Capital 
    https://www.linkedin.com/company/f-prime-capital-partners/about/ 

    F Prime Report: https://fprimecapital.com/robotics

    More about our guest, Sanjay Aggarwal
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanjaykaggarwal/ 

    Machine Minds:
    Apple Podcast:
    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1apGh7x...
    Google Podcast:
    https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0...
    Youtube:   

    Youtube: https://youtube.com/@machinemindsshow
    Let’s connect on social media:
    IG: https://www.instagram.com/machinemindsshow/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregtoroosian/

    45 min
  • Episode 28 | Investing in Advanced Technologies that Matter | Mislav Tolusic

    In this episode, we engaged in a conversation with Mislav Tolusic, a distinguished individual who holds positions of co-managing partner and CIO at Marlinspike. A company that is a multi-stage investor in advanced technologies that matter. Focusing on four core industries: Artificial Intelligence & Data Analytics, Autonomy & Robotics, Aerospace, and Cyber Security.


    Our dialogue with Mislav Tolusic unveils his background, as he narrates his formative years spent in aerospace engineering at University of Zagreb in Croatia, and how he found a different role at Airbus UK in the corporate strategy department. 


    Join us and learn all about the world of robotics!


    Time Stamps

    00:00 Machine Minds Show Introduction 

    08:06 Maintaining Technical Dominance  

    12:30 Disruptive Technologies: AI at the Edge and Drones

    20:43 Success Story: Armada and Autonomous Warfare 

    24:30 Exploring the Drone Ecosystem 

    29:26 Evaluating Teams and Their Dynamics  

    32:48 Adapting and Changing in the Aerospace and Defense Industry  

    44:35 Understanding the Buyer Universe for Exits  

     

    Marlinspike

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/marlinspike/ 


    More about our guest, Mislav Tolusic 

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/mislav-tolusic-525a58/ 


    Machine Minds:

    Apple Podcast:

    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1apGh7x...

    Google Podcast:

    https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0...

    Youtube:   


    Youtube: https://youtube.com/@machinemindsshow

    Let’s connect on social media:

    IG: https://www.instagram.com/machinemindsshow/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregtoroosian/

    54 min
  • Episode 27 | Simplifying Robotics Systems for Logistics | Jeff Mahler

    In today's episode of The Machine Minds Show, we delve into the fascinating world of Ambi Robotics with our special guest, Jeff Mahler, Co-Founder and CTO of the company. 

    Ambi Robotics’s mission is to build AI-powered robotics that empower employees to work smarter and safer, increasing the operational resilience for global brands by creating a more efficient supply chain 

    This episode promises to be a thought-provoking and enlightening conversation. 

    Join us and watch how Jeff Mahler journey and accomplishments serve as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and innovators seeking to make a positive impact on the world of robotics.


    Time Stamps

    00:00 Machine Minds Show Introduction

    1:30 Jeff’s Background

    07:07 Pivotal Moments and Commercial Success

    14:26 Challenges in AI and Robotics Manipulation 

    35:12 Robots as a Service: Providing Hardware, Software, and Support 

    44:46 More Information 

     

    Ambi Robotics 

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/ambirobotics/ 


    More about our guest, Jeff Mahler

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-mahler-64b56138/ 


    Machine Minds:

    Apple Podcast:

    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1apGh7x...

    Google Podcast:

    https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0...

    Youtube:   


    Youtube: https://youtube.com/@machinemindsshow

    Let’s connect on social media:

    IG: https://www.instagram.com/machinemindsshow/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregtoroosian/

    47 min
  • Episode 26 | Robots Transforming Traditional Retail Workflows | Brennand Pierce

    In this episode, we are thrilled to have Brennand Pierce, CEO of Kinisi Robotics, join us to share his journey and insights into transforming retail workflows through robotics.

    Brennand's passion for robotics was sparked early on by watching an advertisement of a humanoid robot on TV. Intrigued by the potential of this technology, he went on to purchase it, diving headfirst into the world of robotics. As his fascination grew, so did his expertise.

    During our conversation, Brennand shares his pivotal moment when the University of Bristol in the UK launched its first Robotics Masters Course. This opportunity further fueled Brennand's passion and equipped him with the knowledge and skills needed to advance in the field.

    Now, as the CEO of Kinisi Robotics, Brennand leads a company dedicated to revolutionizing retail workflows through automation and robotics. Join us as we explore Brennand's journey, from his early days tinkering with robots to his current role at the forefront of innovation.

    Time Stamps
    00:00 Machine Minds Show Introduction 
    01:10 Brennand's Background
    6:00 Munich Learning Experience
    8:00 Meeting John
    11:30 Meeting entrepreneurs
    17:00 Setback experiences
    25:00 Experience from previous endeavours 
    35:20 Hiring and retaining
    43:00 Remote workers
    46:05 Key qualities for hiring 
    53:00 Using ChatGPT
    56:20 Advice for advice for entrepreneurs

    Kinisi Robotics
    https://www.linkedin.com/company/kinisi-robotics/about/

    More about our guest, Brennand Pierce
     https://www.linkedin.com/in/brennandpierce/

    Machine Minds:
    Apple Podcast:
    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1apGh7x...
    Google Podcast:
    https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0...
    Youtube:   

    Youtube: https://youtube.com/@machinemindsshow
    Let’s connect on social media:
    IG: https://www.instagram.com/machinemindsshow/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregtoroosian/

    1 hr
  • Episode 25 | Supporting the Next Generation of Groundbreaking Technology | Larsen Jensen

    In today's episode of The Machine Minds Show, we delve into the fascinating world of Harpoon Venture with our special guest, Larsen Jensen, ex-Olympic winner and now Founder.
    Harpoon Venture’s mission is to deeply commit to supporting the next generation of groundbreaking technology. With $300 million in assets under management, they invest in a wide range of transformative ventures, including those in AI, deep tech, cybersecurity, and enterprise infrastructure.
    This episode promises to be a thought-provoking and enlightening conversation. Join us and watch how Larsen Jensen's journey and accomplishments serve as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and innovators seeking to make a positive impact on the world of robotics.


    Time Stamps
    00:00 Machine Minds Show Introduction 
    01:02 From Olympic Swimmer to Navy SEAL
    8:27 Transition to Venture Capital and Deep Tech
    11:34 Founding Harpoon 
    28:57 Taking Risks and Pursuing Breakthrough Technology 
    31:00 The Importance of Visionary Founders 
    33:08 The Silicon Valley Ecosystem and Risk-Taking 
    35:11 Investment Focus and Game-Changing Technologies 
    39:11 The Importance of Team Dynamics in Investments 
    44:03 Identifying Promising Startups and Technologies 
    49:56 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 
     
    Harpoon Ventures 
    https://www.linkedin.com/company/harpoon-ventures-portfolio/ 

    More about our guest, Laren Jensen
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/larsen-jensen/ 

    Machine Minds:
    Apple Podcast:
    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1apGh7x...
    Google Podcast:
    https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0...
    Youtube:   

    Youtube: https://youtube.com/@machinemindsshow
    Let’s connect on social media:
    IG: https://www.instagram.com/machinemindsshow/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregtoroosian/

    53 min
  • Episode 24 | The Keys to Deep Tech Startup Investing | Jenna Bryant

    In this episode, we speak with Jenna Bryant, the Co-Founder & General Partner at Embedded Ventures, an early-stage deep tech venture capital firm investing in startups, advanced manufacturing, digital engineering, and space operations. They have a 'first of its kind' partnership with the United States Space Force, and a team with firsthand experience as operators in the areas they invest in.

    Today, Jenna and her team at Embedded Ventures are on a mission to recruit engineers, startups, firms, and clients while building strong connections and helping skilled engineers among companies.
    As we dive into our conversation, she shares her background and professional experiences that have shaped her journey in the world of robotics. From working with Beyoncé as a dancer, to jumping into a boutique recruiting firm, and now having a one-of-a-kind partnership with the United States Space Force.

    Join us as we explore the exciting world of Embedded Ventures and how the life of Jenna turned 180 degrees into a curious adventure and is now a powerful and important recruiter, Co-Founder & General Partner of a business.

    Time Stamps
    00:00 Machine Minds Show Introduction
    3:22 Venture Capital   
    6:11 Embedded Ventures 
    9:05 Challenges
    15:05 Deep Tech 
    21:02 Assessing Potential Investments 
    24:52 Investment Strategy and Portfolio 
    31:07 Early Stages
    32:48 The Future of Hard Tech and Deep Tech
    35:08 The Exciting and Wild State of the Industry
    39:11 Opportunities of Growth and Innovations 
    42:20 Robotics and Automation
    43:14 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

    Embedded Ventures
    https://www.linkedin.com/company/embedded-ventures/

    Jenna Bryant
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennabryant/

    Machine Minds:
    Apple Podcast:
    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1apGh7x...
    Google Podcast:
    https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0...
    Youtube:   
    https://youtube.com/@machinemindsshow
    Let’s connect on social media:
    IG: https://www.instagram.com/machinemindsshow/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregtoroosian/

    49 min
  • Episode 23 | Achieving Persistent Flight and its Impact on Industries | Justin Selfridge

    In this episode, we sit down with Justin Selfridge, the CEO of Devorto Corporation. A pioneering company dedicated to the development of an innovative solar-powered aircraft, distinguished by its remarkable ability to operate perpetually without the need for landing.

    During our conversation, Mr. Selfridge shares captivating insights about his extensive background at NASA and illuminates the ambitious mission undertaken by his exceptional team at Devorto Corporation. Their collective endeavour focuses on constructing an aircraft capable of harnessing abundant solar energy during daylight hours, thereby enabling it to sustain operations throughout the night solely on stored battery power.

    Join us as we explore the exciting world of Devorto Corporation and the remarkable strides they have made in transforming this visionary concept into a tangible reality. 

    Time Stamps
    00:00 Machine Minds Show Introduction
    01:16 The Vision of Devorto 
    6:30 The Development of Tern UAV  
    9:48 Takeoff and Landing of Tern UAV  
    14:44 Applications of Tern UAV 
    21:54 The Role of Tern UAV in IA and Robotics  
    27:05 Addressing Global Challenges with Tern UAV  
    32:11 Control and Landing of Tern UAV  
    36:01 Endurance and Battery Life  
    38:23 The Future of UAVs, Robotics, and AI 
    41:15 Regulation and Oversight of AI
    43:21 Upcoming Projects and Developments 

     Devorto Corporation
    https://www.linkedin.com/company/devorto/ 

    Justin Selfridge
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-selfridge/ 

    Machine Minds:
    Apple Podcast:
    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1apGh7x...
    Google Podcast:
    https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0...
    Youtube:   
    https://youtube.com/@machinemindsshow
    Let’s connect on social media:
    IG: https://www.instagram.com/machinemindsshow/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregtoroosian/


    45 min
  • Episode 22 | Improving the American Food Supply Chain with Robotics and AI | Rajat Bhageria

    In this episode, we speak with Rajat Bhageria, a Roboticist, Founder, and CEO of Chef Robotics, a company that helps accelerate the advent of intelligent machines which empower humans to do what humans do best. 

    As we dive into our conversation, Rajat Bhageria shares his background and formative experiences that have shaped his journey in the world of robotics. From having a Master of Education in Engineering, Robotics and Machine Learning (GRASP Lab) at the university of Pennsylvania, to being a Forbes writer. Rajat is currently an entrepreneur and CEO of Chef Robotics which has achieved a major milestone of having more than 10M meals in production.

    Today, Rajat Bhageria and his team at Chef Robotics are on a mission to help food companies overcome their crushing labor shortage while helping to keep the American food supply chain on-shore. 

    Join us as we explore the exciting AI operation of boosting different processes that have been evolving tremendously with Chef Robotics.

    Time Stamps
    00:00 Machine Minds Show Introduction
    3:25 The Impact of AI in the Physical World 
    8:54 Transition from Idea to Execution 
    13:43 Overcoming Hurdles in Hiring and Fundraising 
    19:56 The Technology Behind Chef Robotics 
    25:09 Contributing to a Sustainable Food Industry 
    35:18 Milestones: 10 Million Meals and Recognition 
    37:43 The Potential Impact of Robotics on the Food Supply Chain 
    38:26 Chef Robotics Business Model 
    40:07 Building Strong Team and Fostering Innovation 
    42:49 Challenges of Innovation in a Startup
    45:26 The Importance of Customer Focus in Innovation 
    46:52 The Future of Robotics in the Food Industry 


    Chef Robotics
    https://www.linkedin.com/company/chef-robotics/ 

    Rajat Bhageria
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajatbhageria/ 

    Machine Minds:
    Apple Podcast:
    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1apGh7x...
    Google Podcast:
    https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0...
    Youtube:   
    https://youtube.com/@machinemindsshow
    Let’s connect on social media:
    IG: https://www.instagram.com/machinemindsshow/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregtoroosian/

    50 min

About Machine Minds

From the publisher's feed

Machine Minds - the minds behind the machines! This is the show where we dive deep into the intricate worlds of robotics, AI, and Hard Tech. In each episode, we bring you intimate conversations…