In this episode of the Product Artisan podcast, host Rajesh interviews Dr. Balaji Viswanathan, an accomplished startup CEO, founder, inventor, and AI enthusiast with a notable journey from a software developer at Microsoft to pioneering robotics initiatives in India. Dr. Balaji shares his experiences spanning AI and neural networks, starting with an inspiring encounter with Dr. Kalam, leading to multiple startups, including an AI-driven financial analysis tool and a challenge-filled venture into robotics with Mitra Robot, emphasising the market's readiness and the reality of technological adoption. The conversation dives deep into the complexities of building robotics startups, hardware challenges, customer expectations, and the potential impact of generative AI on the future of robotics and product development.

00:00 Welcome to the Product Artisan Podcast

00:32 The Multifaceted Journey of Dr. Balaji Viswanathan

00:59 From AI Experiments to Microsoft: A Tech Odyssey

05:08 The Birth of Zynfin: Navigating Early Market Challenges

12:23 Blackduck: Revolutionising Code Compliance

18:47 The Robotics Venture: Mitra Robot's Early Days

21:33 The Robotics Bubble and the Shift in Hardware Interest

22:30 Challenges and Innovations in Building a Humanoid Robot

22:52 The Maker Space: A Foundation for Robotics Innovation

24:15 Rapid Prototyping: From 3D Models to a Functional Robot

27:05 Building in India: A Mission for Manufacturing and Employment

27:47 Empowering Through Robotics: Stories of Transformation

34:08 The High Expectations and Scope Creep in Robotics

41:30 Generative AI: A Catalyst for Robotics?