Machine Minds

In this episode, we speak with Michael Laskey, CTO, and Nag Murty, Founder & CEO of Electric Sheep, a company that has vertically integrated robotics and it’s transforming the outdoor services industry, from building their own foundation AI models to deploying human + robot crews to service customers. 

As we dive into our conversation, Michael Laskey and Nag Murty share their background and formative experiences that have shaped his journey in the world of robotics. From their education and PhD, how the idea of building a robot to landscapers first began, the company’s background and how they have outgrown from years of experiences. Michael from having 10+ years of experience and interest in the robotics industry and Nag from working in the White House under Obama’s administration.

Today, Michael, Nag and his team at Electric Sheep are on a mission to build the largest outdoor sandbox for outdoor autonomy under a business model that works with the help of AI.

Join us as we explore the exciting world of Electric Sheep and how the data engine to power the robots of tomorrow really works while amplifying the landscaping business using advanced automation.

Time Stamps

00:00 Introduction and background

01:40 Building the Largest Outdoor Sandbox for Outdoor Autonomy 

4:21 Founding Electric Sheep Robotics 

5:00 Amplifying landscaping businesses 

8:33 The technology behind Electric Sheep Robotics 

10:00 Training the robots to learn and execute tasks  

13:24 Working alongside humans to enhance efficiency  

16:02 Acquiring and transforming landscaping businesses   

18:43 Evaluating businesses for acquisition  

20:00 Challenges in collaboration 

25:22 Nurturing talent and maintaining a culture of innovation 

31:51 The competitive landscape in outdoor automation robotics  

34:31 The current state of the robotics and AI industry

37:53 Future plans and scale-up

39:24 Conclusion and where to find more information 

40:00 Upcoming launch 

Electric Sheep 

https://www.linkedin.com/company/electric-sheep-robotics/ 

Michael Laskey

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-laskey-4b087ba2/ 

Nag Murty

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nag-murty-b003383/ 

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/

In this episode, we sit down with Steve Arters, Partner Vice President of Marketing at Renu Robotics, a company at the forefront of automating operations and maintenance in the solar industry. Renu Robotics specializes in the development of all-electric autonomous vehicles tailored for vegetation management.

Throughout our engaging discussion, Steve imparts valuable insights derived from his illustrious background as a writer and editor, recounting his initial foray into the realm of marketing in Dallas before eventually relocating to San Antonio. He shares how his marketing expertise seamlessly transitioned into the realm of robotics, embarking on an extraordinary journey that continues to unfold.

Join us on this exploration of Renu Robotics, as we delve into the remarkable strides they are making in shaping the future of Vegetation Management.

Time Stamps

00:00 Machine Minds Show

01:20 Steve’s background

5:20 Vegetation Management is critical

6:30 Showing the Future through marketing

9:45 Marketing Excellence Award

12:55 Renu Robotics’s Journey 

16:25 What Inspired Renu Robotics’s Focus?

18:20 How Big are These Operations?

19:20 Success Stories

22:20 Reasons to Have Vegetation Management Systems

24:50 Trends of the Robotics Industry

29:10 Other Mowing Markets

32:00 Challenges and Regulations

35:00 Advice to Innovators

Renu Robotics

https://renurobotics.com/

Steve Arters

https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevearters/

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/

In this episode, we speak with Seth Winteroth, partner at Eclipse Ventures. Eclipse Ventures is an early stage venture firm that specializes in investments within the vital physical industries that significantly impact people's lives.

During our discussion, Seth imparts insights into his background and shares the transformative experiences that have shaped his journey in the realm of robotics. His tenure at General Electric in 2012, coupled with his involvement in pioneering strategic initiatives, provided him with invaluable perspectives and expertise. Furthermore, Seth had the privilege of witnessing a pivotal convergence point among substantial industrial sectors that exert profound influence on society.

We invite you to join us as we delve into the captivating world of Eclipse Ventures and explore how their engagement in unconventional opportunities aligns with their overarching objective of augmenting the prospects of success for the visionary entrepreneurs they collaborate with.

Time Stamps

00:00 Machine Minds Show

01:20 Seth background

5:20 Hardware Business Models

9:40 Delivering Solutions

11:30 Seth’s Role in Eclipse

12:10  Eclipse’s high Involvement 

16:05 Eclipse’s Key Industries and Sectors

21:15 Modern Automation Systems

22:00 Opportunities in Automation

24:20 What Eclipse Looks for Investing

29:50 Pitching Mistakes

34:40 Talent, Challenges and Success

35:30 Hiring the Right People

38:10 Current State of Robotics and AI

Eclipse Ventures

https://eclipse.vc

Seth Winterroth

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethwinterroth

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/

In this episode, we had the privilege of speaking with Sam Abidi, the Chief Commercial Officer of Monarch Tractor, a pioneering company that specializes in the development of cutting-edge smart electric tractors, aimed at revolutionizing and optimizing existing farm ecosystems.

During our conversation, Sam delved into his impressive professional journey. He began his career as a contributor in a robotics research laboratory, where he honed his expertise and passion for robotics. Additionally, Sam's remarkable tenure as a management consultant at Deloitte spanned over six years, further solidifying his proficiency in strategic decision-making and business acumen in the world of robotics. Prior to assuming his current role at Monarch Tractor. 

Join us as we explore the exciting world of Monarch Tractors, a company that helps farmers by addressing labor availability, meeting consumer demands for sustainability, and providing actionable data-driven farming insights. Monarch enables economically competitive organic and beyond farming through intelligent electro-mechanical solutions that replace harmful chemicals.

Join us as we explore the world of Farming and Robotics!

Time Stamps

00:00 Machine Minds Show

01:30 Sam’s background

5:09 Monarch contacting Sam  

5:48 Private Land Regulations 

8:39 Monarch Tractor’s Journey 

10:30 Monarch Tractor’s Customers 

11:25 Monarch’s First Big Year  

12:20 Monarch’s Approach To Autonomy 

14:55 Functionality of Autonomous Tractors 

18:41 Rentability of Autonomous Tractors 

24:30  Crops Comparison Tests

26:50 Monarch Tractors Approach To Farmers   

30:42 Who Manages the Tractors? 

33:08 Monarch Tractor Business Model  

34:20 Hours of Tractor’s Autonomy 

35:16 Success Stories of Monarch Tractor   

37:20 Sam’s Balance 

39:53 Sam’s Function on the Licensing Frontier  

41:59 Partnerships

43:41 Sam’s Predictions on Tech  

47:28 Challenges That Agriculture Needs To Address

48:56 Upcoming Innovations 

Monarch Tractor
https://www.monarchtractor.com/ 

Sam Abidi

linkedin.com/in/sam-a-8b28324b

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/

In this episode, we speaked with Paolo, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Embodied, a cutting-edge robotics company that is changing the world of education and early age development for children. 

As we dive into our conversation, Paolo shares his background and formative experiences that have shaped his journey in the world of robotics. From his childhood dreams of working at NASA to his diverse experiences in the field, Paolo's passion and dedication to advancing robotics technology are truly inspiring.

Today, Paolo and his team at Embodied are on a mission to create life-like robotic characters that can be integrated into our homes and daily lives, providing personalized support and learning opportunities for children aged 5-10. With their flagship product, Moxie, Embodied is poised to transform the education landscape, making learning more effective, inclusive, and engaging for all.

Join us as we explore the exciting world of Embodied and how their innovative technology has the potential to shape the future of education. With their commitment to developing robots that can help us with personal development, mental health, and education, Embodied is truly a company to watch. So, sit back, relax, and let's dive into this fascinating conversation with Paolo.

Time Stamps

00:00 Machine Minds Show

01:40 Paolo’s background

3:40 Founding Embodied

5:00 Developing Affordable Robots

7:40 How Moxie was born

8:30 AI tutoring for kids

10:20 Moxie’s users

11:30 Moxie’s functions and support

13:00 Digital Moxie App Experience 

14:30 The current impact of Moxie

16:45 What happens to children that fall behind in class?

17:50 Personalized lessons 

19:20 Parents learning from Moxie

18:40 Parenting with Moxie

19:50 Therapy with Moxie

21:50 What fuels the passion of Embodied?

23:30 Overcoming challenges

24:30 How Paolo balances different responsibilities

28:40 The future of the Robotics and AI industry

33:00 Paolo’s advice to engineers and aspiring entrepreneurs 

Embodied, Inc.

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

Paolo Pirjanian

https://www.linkedin.com/in/paolopirjanian/

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/

In this episode, our dialogue with Spencer, unveils his background and formative experiences that shaped his trajectory in the world of robotics. As a young child, Spencer was granted the opportunity to visit the National Robotics Engineering Center of Pittsburgh, guided by his father's cousin, Lee Wise. It was during this visit that Spencer's passion for robotics was ignited, as he saw an industrial robot executing painting, drilling, and other operations.

Throughout our discussion, Spencer shares the challenges he encountered at the outset of his career, challenges that ultimately propelled him to his current position as the President and Chief Executive Officer of SKA | Custom Robots and Machines.

Join us as we delve into SKA, a company that sets itself apart through its ability to solve complex problems. Furthermore, Spencer imparts advice to aspiring engineers, urging them to embrace both small and big risks in their pursuit of their dreams.

Time Stamps

00:00 Machine Minds Show

01:40 Spencer’s background 

7:10 How SKA stands out

8:30 SKA’s involvement with clients

11:40 Advantages of having a lean team

13:10 Spencer’s favorite projects

20:00 Evolution of robotics

26:30 Humanoids 

29:30 What clients are asking from SKA

30:45 Challenges in the industry

35:45 Pricing and clients

37:00 Future of robotics and AI

39:25 Exciting upcoming projects

45:40 Personal questions 

 48:30 Advice for aspiring engineers

49:30 Where to find Spencer

SKA | Custom Robots and Machines

https://www.ska.solutions/

More about our guest, Spencer Krause

https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencerkrause/

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/

In this episode, we engaged in a conversation with Daniel Theobald, a distinguished individual who holds positions of Co-founder and President at MassRobotics, Founder and Chairman at Vecna Robotics, and Founder and CEO at Mekable.

Our dialogue with Daniel unveils his background, as he narrates his formative years spent in Silicon Valley. From a tender age, he found himself immersed in the world of robotics and artificial intelligence. Notably, Daniel recounts a momentous encounter with Eduard Teller, the renowned physicist hailed as the "father of the hydrogen bomb," an experience that greatly influenced his professional journey. Subsequently, his educational pursuit led him to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he established his own robotics program. Since then, he has gone on to found successful companies.

Throughout our discussion, it becomes evident that his teams possess a deep sense of camaraderie and mutual care, enabling them to accomplish remarkable feats and assume pioneering roles within the robotics industry.

Join us as we talk about the importance of prioritizing happiness in the workplace, career decision-making, as well as nurturing a genuine concern for both the business and the individuals involved. Moreover, Daniel explains how his passion for his work has empowered him to make a tangible impact within the industry without resorting to external sources of capital or funding.

Time Stamps
00:00 Machine Minds Show
01:30 Daniel’s background
4:25 Impact of MassRobotics
5:30 The world runs on pallets
7:10 Empowering human productivity
8:00 Twisted Fields
8:30 Technology not taking jobs
10:50 The goal of enabling affordable healthy food
15:00 Organic Foods against Covid
16:00 Sharing lessons
18:00 Asking for help
19:00 Trusting your gut
20:30 People come first
26:40 Relationships with coworkers
29:00 How remote working has affected working culture
31:40 Taking care of your coworkers
33:00 Community service and productivity
36:30 Daniel’s perspective on funding
40:00 Taking investor money is not always the best
45:20 You’re more likely to get laid off from big companies
47:40 The current state of the robotics industry
50:00 We shouldn’t fear technology
 
Twisted Fields
https://www.twistedfields.com

Vecna Robotics
Vecnarobotics.com

MassRobotics
massrobotics.org/

More about our guest, Daniel Theobald
linkedin.com/in/daniel-theobald

Machine Minds:
Apple Podcast:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/machine-minds/id1696335193
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1apGh7xMItxo9UEYUwijZL?si=a6d2646c0f6540be

Google Podcast:
https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5idXp6c3Byb3V0LmNvbS8yMjEyMTQ4LnJzcw==

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

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

In this episode, we sit down with Abe Murray, General Partner at AlleyCorp Robotics. AlleyCorp Robotics is an early stage venture fund and incubator that founds and funds transformative companies in New York.

During our discussion, Abe shares his remarkable career trajectory, which encompasses a diverse array of experiences. From his decision to forgo high school education to running fishing boats and factories of his family business, to later leading a Google research product team before AI became prominent.

His background holds particular relevance to the realm of robotics. Notably, his hands-on involvement in operating forklifts and working on factory assembly lines has endowed him with insights into the practical applications of robotic technologies.

Join us as we delve into a thought-provoking dialogue centered around recent advancements in the field of robotics. Furthermore, we explore the multifaceted challenges and promising opportunities that lie ahead, all while casting towards the future of this industry.

Time Stamps
00:00 Machine Minds Show
01:30 Abe’s background
3:40 The focus of AlleyCorp
4:50 Mission of AlleyCorp Robotics
6:40 The evolution of hardware in robotics
9:20 The state of the robotics industry
16:40 Recent investments to be excited about
20:55 The misconception of robots taking jobs
23:40 Challenges for robotics
27:50 Better transition for employers and employees
30:50 Opportunities in the near future
33:30 The future of robotics
40:30 Abe’s advice to innovators

AlleyCorp
https://alleycorp.com/verticals/robotics/

More about our guest, Abe Murray
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abrahammurray

Machine Minds:
Apple Podcast:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/machine-minds/id1696335193
Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/show/1apGh7xMItxo9UEYUwijZL?si=a6d2646c0f6540be
Google Podcast:
https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5idXp6c3Byb3V0LmNvbS8yMjEyMTQ4LnJzcw==
YouTube:
https://youtube.com/@machinemindsshow


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

In this episode, we sit down with Mika Saryan, VP of Engineering of Formic, a company that helps manufacturers grow their business by making it easy to afford, deploy, and profit from robotic automation.

Mika takes us on his beginnings, starting on automotive, entertainment, consumer devices, and eventually ending up on robotics.
Enjoy as he shares his passion about industrial automation, safety and the intersection between software and hardware.

Mika shares advice to aspiring engineers and entrepreneurs on the field. Telling them to go into the real world, building new things, staying in the lab it's not enough, because of how loud and unpredictable the world is.

Time Stamps
00:00 Machine Minds Show
1:25 Mika's background
2:40 The importance of safety in industrial automation
5:40 Challenges on Mika's career
8:00 Formic's mission
11:10 What makes Formic's offering unique?
17:40 Trends in the automation industry
23:05 Formic wanting to train operators, not displace them
25:10 Labor shortage in the manufacturing industry 
26:00 The future of robotics and AI
30:25 Mika's advice to aspiring engineers and new start-ups

Formic
https://formic.co/

More about our guest, Mika Saryan
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mika-saryan/

Machine Minds:

Apple Podcast:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/machine-minds/id1696335193
Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/show/1apGh7xMItxo9UEYUwijZL?si=a6d2646c0f6540be
Google Podcast:
https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5idXp6c3Byb3V0LmNvbS8yMjEyMTQ4LnJzcw==
YouTube:
https://youtube.com/@machinemindsshow


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

In this episode, we sit down with Davis Foster, Co-Founder of Scythe Robotics, a company that solves landscapers' labor issues. Davis takes us on his formation journey, from a young Lego enthusiast to Co-Founder and Chief Engineer of Scythe. Enjoy this episode with Davis, where he shares inspiring startup stories and how Scythe overcame obstacles.

Davis is passionate about building high-quality products, and using top-quality pieces to build robots, Scythe's business model incentivizes them to make durable robotic mowers. Don't miss this conversation with Davis, as he describes how Scythe keeps innovating.

Time Stamps
00:00 Machine Minds Show
1:25 Davis's background
5:45 Initial challenges on a startup
6:30 Early painful machine story
9:20 Vision of Scythe Robotics
11:50 Solving Market's Labor Needs
14:05 How Scythe distinguishes from competition 
17:15 Evading to reinvent too much
22:15 Pricing of Robotic Mowers & ROI for landscapers
25:30 Incentives on building durable equipment
31:10 Scythe's fundraising approach
34:20 Hiring talent
37:45 Keeping innovation flowing

Scythe Robotics
http://scytherobotics.com/

More about our guest, Davis Foster
linkedin.com/in/davisfoster

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/