Startuprad.io - The Authority on German, Swiss and Austrian Startups and Venture Capital

Executive Summary In this episode of Startuprad.io, host Jörn "Joe" Menninger interviews Prof. Avi Loeb, a Harvard astrophysicist, at Curious 2024. Loeb discusses groundbreaking scientific inquiries, such as dark matter, dark energy, and AI's role in scientific progress. He emphasizes innovation, the role of startups, and the need for open-mindedness in research. Loeb also explores the future impact of AI, envisioning AI avatars replacing tombstones to preserve personal legacies. The conversation underscores the importance of curiosity, risk-taking, and the interplay between science and technology in advancing human knowledge. Our Sponsor Startupraven The best way to find investors and cooperation partners for early-stage startups. Sign up here: https://startupraven.com/ Questions Discussed in the Interview Curiosity-Driven Science: Avi Loeb describes himself as a "curious farm boy" and emphasizes the importance of curiosity in his scientific endeavors. How do you think curiosity drives scientific innovation and discovery? Known Unknowns: Loeb identifies various "known unknowns" in science, like dark matter, dark energy, and the nature of black holes. Which of these unknowns do you find most intriguing and why? Big Bang Origins: Loeb speculates that the Big Bang might have been artificially created by a scientist. How does this hypothesis challenge our current understanding of cosmology, and what are its implications for future research? Role of AI in Science: Loeb sees great potential for artificial intelligence and machine learning in scientific research. What specific roles do you think AI can play in redefining how we conduct and interpret scientific experiments? Startups and Risk: Loeb emphasizes the importance of startups taking risks to achieve breakthroughs. What strategies can startups implement to balance the risk of innovation with the need for stability and funding? Conservatism in Science: Loeb discusses the conservatism in the scientific community and how it can hinder innovation. How can the academic and scientific communities foster a more open-minded approach to new ideas and anomalies? Technological Advancements: Loeb mentions the interdependence of fundamental science and technology. How can emerging technologies like quantum computing and AI contribute to major scientific discoveries in the near future? Artificial Intelligence Avatars: Loeb envisions a future where AI avatars represent deceased individuals, offering interactions based on their digital footprints. What ethical and societal implications might arise from this concept? Quantum Mechanics and Gravitation: The unification of quantum mechanics and gravity remains an unsolved problem in physics. What do you think are the biggest challenges in achieving this unification, and how might overcoming these challenges transform our understanding of the universe? Future of Scientific Research: Looking ahead, Loeb predicts that AI will significantly impact scientific research. How do you envision the collaboration between human scientists and AI evolving, and what new fields of study might emerge as a result? The Interviewer LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/comm/mynetwork/discovery-see-all?usecase=PEOPLE_FOLLOWS&followMember=joernmenninger Twitter: https://x.com/joemenninger

Join us as host Jörn "Joe" Menninger dives into a fascinating conversation with Ish Dhand, CEO and Co-Founder of QC Design. Ish, who has been honored as the Newcomer of the Year at the German Startup Awards 2024, shares his extensive knowledge and pioneering work in the field of quantum computing. Learn about QC Design's cutting-edge quantum computer tomography and their mission to create efficient, economically viable quantum computers. In this episode, Ish discusses the challenges of transitioning from academic research to commercial ventures, applying lean startup principles to deep tech, and the potential of quantum computing to revolutionize industries such as drug discovery and material science. Discover QC Design's efforts in recruiting top talent, their current funding round, and their strategic collaborations with leading hardware companies. Tune in for an insightful look into the future of quantum computing with one of the industry's most promising innovators. Don't miss this opportunity to stay ahead of the curve in tech entrepreneurship! Links: Blog Post: https://www.startuprad.io/blog Work with us: https://www.passionfroot.me/startupradio Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/startupradio Follow Us on Social Media: Stay updated with the latest episodes and news by following us on social media. Join our vibrant community and never miss an inspiring conversation! Sponsor: Startupraven Looking for investors and cooperation partners for your early-stage startup? Join our community and connect with entrepreneurs building amazing things every day. Sign up at: https://startupraven.com/ German Startup Awards Coverage: This interview is part of our media partnership with the German Startup Association. Learn more about the winners at https://germanstartupawards.de/gsa-2024 and check out our coverage of past winners. For more information on QC Design and Ish Dhand, visit: QC Design: https://www.qc.design/ Ish Dhand's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ishdhand/ Feedback: We value your input! Share your feedback and help us improve: https://forms.gle/mLV6mVKwGwKuut8BA Stay Up to Date: Check out our publication calendar: https://calendar.google.com/calendar/embed?src=012i27ak525qi3smgjl8v9tbio%40group.calendar.google.com&ctz=Europe%2FBerlin

In this must-listen episode, Robert Dittrich, CEO of Liz Smart Office, joins host Jörn "Joe" Menninger to discuss cutting-edge strategies for managing hybrid work environments. Learn how Liz Smart Office uses gamification incentives to bring employees back to the office, enhance office attractiveness, and manage noise levels. Discover why new managerial skills are crucial in leading both remote and in-office teams and how age-related views on remote work impact company policies. Robert also shares valuable resources for managing remote teams and talks about opportunities for investor collaboration and talent acquisition. 🚀 Episode Highlights: Gamification strategies for office return Innovative solutions for enhancing office attractiveness Noise management techniques for hybrid work environments Insights on generational differences in remote work preferences The importance of face-to-face interactions and new managerial skills Customizing home office policies across different departments 📈 Don't miss out on these insights that can transform your hybrid work strategy! 🎧 Listen Now: Apple Podcasts: Subscribe here Spotify: Listen here Castbox: Subscribe here 📲 Stay Connected: Follow us on Social Media: Startuprad.io Linktree Read our Blog: Startuprad.io Blog Join our Community: Passionfroot Discover More: Liz Smart Office 📢 Working with us: Interested in collaborating or investing? Learn more Liz Smart Office is hiring! Explore opportunities 💡 For Startups: Find investors and cooperation partners easily: Startupraven 🚀 Feedback: We love hearing from you! Share your feedback 🔔 Stay Updated: Join our monthly Newsletter on Slack: Subscribe here Check our publication calendar: Calendar 🎙 About the Host: Connect with Jörn “Joe” Menninger on LinkedIn Tune in to stay ahead of the curve in hybrid workspace management! 🌟

Join Jörn "Joe" Menninger in this riveting episode of Startuprad.io as he interviews Danko Nikolic, the visionary CEO and Founder of Robots go Mental. Dive into the world of AI and machine learning, inspired by brain research and groundbreaking work with NASA. Danko shares his journey from brain researcher at the Max Planck Institute to entrepreneur, developing cutting-edge machine learning algorithms that are reshaping technology. Learn about the challenges of launching a deep tech startup in Germany, the need for supportive infrastructure, and exciting use cases like visual systems for self-driving cars. 🌟 **Key Highlights:** - **Innovative AI Algorithms**: Discover how Robots go Mental is pushing the boundaries of self-training algorithms. - **Brain Research to AI**: Danko's transition from brain research to AI innovation. - **Collaboration with NASA**: Learn about their successful project on RNA sequences from mice in space. - **Call for Talent & Investors**: Danko invites talented individuals and investors to join his mission in evolving Germany's tech and AI landscape. 🔗 For more insights and further reading, check out our blog: [Startuprad.io Blog](https://www.startuprad.io/blog) 🚀 **Connect and Follow Us:** - **Social Media**: [linktr.ee/startupradio](https://linktr.ee/startupradio) - **Newsletter**: [startupradio.substack.com](https://startupradio.substack.com) - **Work with Us**: [Passionfroot](https://www.passionfroot.me/startupradio) 🎧 **Subscribe to our Podcast:** - [Spotify](https://open.spotify.com/show/3etgUOz5KWKycYHsvQv1yG?si=f0b318b620dc48f0) - [Apple Podcasts](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/startuprad-io-the-authority-on-german-swiss-and/id967788304) - [Castbox](https://castbox.fm/channel/5589808?country=de) - [Global Podcast Network](https://nycpodcastnetwork.com/podcast/startuprad-io-the-authority-on-german-startups-joern-joe-menninger/) - [Good Pods](https://goodpods.com/podcasts/startupradio-the-authority-on-german-swiss-and-austrian-startups-and-v-37834) Don’t miss this episode packed with insights and opportunities to be part of the future of AI! #MachineLearning #ArtificialIntelligence #NASA #TechInnovation #DeepTech #AI #Startups #Entrepreneurship

Summary: Catch up on the latest startup and tech entrepreneurship news from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland in under 30 minutes. Hosted by Chris from New York City and Joe from Frankfurt, we cover crucial updates including Check24's bold marketing campaign, Lilium's funding pursuits, WeFox's internal challenges, and significant investments by Amazon and DeepL. Highlights: Check24's Marketing Blitz: Distributing 5 million free Puma jerseys ahead of the European Championship, sparking online discussions and app downloads despite privacy concerns. Lilium's eVTOL Ambitions: Seeking €300M in government aid to advance the Lilium Jet. WeFox's Valuation Struggles: Internal power struggle could dramatically devalue the insurtech company. Amazon's Infrastructure Investments: An additional €10 billion investment in Germany for cloud data storage and logistics. DeepL's AI Milestone: Now Germany’s most valuable AI startup with a $2 billion valuation. Tech Innovations: Black Semiconductor's €254.4M investment and Cognigy's $100M funding for AI customer service automation. Stay informed on these transformative developments in the DACH region's startup ecosystem. For detailed insights, visit our blog: https://www.startuprad.io/blog

Dive into the fascinating world of Metaloop with Jan Pannenbäcker on Startuprad.io, where host Jörn "Joe" Menninger uncovers the remarkable strides Metaloop is making in the scrap metal industry. This episode offers a deep dive into how Metaloop is spearheading digitalization, promoting sustainability, and shaping the circular economy. From Jan's roots in northern Germany to his audacious entrepreneurial journey that led to founding Metaloop, discover the pivotal transitions that crafted a startup aimed at revolutionizing an entire industry. Unravel the innovative strategies behind Metaloop's scrap metal trading, their approach to navigating global markets, and their adherence to EU recycling standards. In This Episode, You'll Discover: How Metaloop is leading the charge towards digital transparency in the scrap metal sector. The influence of EU regulations on Metaloop’s operations and their global reach. The strategic partnerships that bolster Metaloop's integration into major industries. Exciting insights into Metaloop's future plans for expansion and their innovative funding approaches. Episode Highlights: Introduction to Jan and Metaloop's mission Journey from sustainable clothing to metal recycling Overcoming industry challenges and embracing global markets Strategic partnerships and their role in Metaloop’s growth Metaloop’s unique projects, like aircraft and generator scrappage Q&A with Jan Pannenbäcker Links and Resources: Metaloop Official Website Connect with Jan Pannenbäcker on LinkedIn Explore Opportunities at Metaloop Learn More About Startuprad.io Stay Engaged: Subscribe to Startuprad.io for more enlightening episodes. Join our vibrant community on Telegram for the latest updates: Startupradio Channel Never miss out: Sign up for our informative newsletter at Startuprad.io Newsletter This episode is proudly presented by Startupraven, your go-to platform for connecting with investors and finding cooperation partners. Begin your journey with us at Startupraven. Hashtags: #Metaloop #Sustainability #Startuprad_io #Entrepreneurship #CircularEconomy #ScrapMetalRecycling #TechInnovation Call to Action: We'd love to hear from you! Join the conversation in our comments section and share your insights on the innovations in scrap metal recycling and the circular economy.

🎙️ **Blue Forest Ventures: Transforming Scientific Research into Marketable Solutions** **In this episode of Startuprad.io, we delve into the dynamic realm of deep tech investments with Max Narr, General Partner at Blue Forest Ventures. Max unveils their strategic approach to bridging the gap between groundbreaking scientific innovation and lucrative investment opportunities. Discover how Blue Forest Ventures masterfully translates complex scientific ideas into compelling equity stories, leveraging alternative data sources and AI for market evaluation. Explore their focus on impactful solutions and diverse founding teams, their investment criteria, recent technological innovations, and their unwavering commitment to aligning financial success with positive societal impact. Join host Jörn “Joe” Menninger for an inspiring discussion on the future of deep tech investments and the unique ecosystem Blue Forest Ventures is cultivating from their hub in Berlin.** **Tune in to explore:** - Strategies for transforming scientific ideas into compelling equity stories. - How avoiding heavily regulated fields like drug development shapes their investment strategy. - The role of alternative data sources in evaluating investment potential. - Balancing economic returns with impactful deep tech solutions. - The importance of heterogeneous founding teams. - The significance of technological readiness levels in attracting investments. - Breakthroughs in data transmission and storage technologies. - Integrating impact measurement into investment decisions. - Keeping abreast of new deep tech innovations. - The broader implications of innovations in global agriculture and sustainability. 🎧 **Join us for this insightful episode and learn how Blue Forest Ventures is revolutionizing the transition from scientific research to market-ready solutions.** 📌 **Learn more and support us:** - [Passionfroot Storefront](https://linktr.ee/startuprad_io) - [Startuprad.io's Blog](https://medium.com/startuprad-io) - [More Links](https://linktr.ee/startuprad_io) 🔗 **Guest Information:** Max Narr, General Partner at Blue Forest Ventures [LinkedIn Profile](https://www.linkedin.com/in/max-narr/) 📌 **About Blue Forest Ventures:** Blue Forest Ventures is a Berlin-based VC fund specializing in early-stage deep tech companies that transition from academic research to commercial applications. By avoiding heavily regulated fields, they focus on impactful solutions with tangible economic benefits. With ticket sizes between 500,000 € and 1,000,000 €, they employ data-driven methodologies to predict market trends and support innovative deep tech startups. **Listen now and discover the future of deep tech investments with Blue Forest Ventures!** 🎙️

### Podcast Description: The Path to US VC Funding: Tips from JC2 Ventures Partner Yvette Kanouff In this episode of Startuprad.io, host Jörn "Joe" Menninger sits down with Yvette Kanouff, Partner at JC2 Ventures, to discuss the secrets to optimizing your VC pitch. Drawing from her extensive background in mathematics and technology, Yvette shares invaluable tips on crafting concise and compelling presentations, simplifying complex concepts, and understanding the perspectives of venture capitalists. Join us as we delve into the importance of networking, building long-term relationships, and the power of personal meetings in the fundraising journey. Yvette also highlights key investment areas such as AI, security, fintech, and clean energy, emphasizing the role of disruptive technologies and stringent financial criteria in successful pitches. Additionally, Yvette shares her experiences with investments in anti-drone technology and the potential for European startups in deep tech and green tech. Whether you're navigating cross-country investments, leveraging AI advancements, or preparing for your next pitch, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you succeed. Tune in for a conversation that’s sure to inspire and inform your entrepreneurial journey. Don't miss out on this engaging and informative episode! Key Topics: - Yvette's career in mathematics and technology - Tips for concise and effective pitching - Understanding VC perspectives and financial criteria - The role of disruptive technologies in investment - Networking strategies and building long-term VC relationships - Insights into AI investments and the startup ecosystem - The future of deep tech and green tech in Europe Follow us: Stay updated with our latest episodes by following us on Telegram: https://t.me/startupradiochannel Join our monthly newsletter on Slack: https://startupradio.substack.com/ Sponsored by Startupraven: Join our community of entrepreneurs and find investors and cooperation partners for early-stage startups. Sign up here: https://startupraven.com/ Guest: Yvette Kanouff, Partner at JC2 Ventures, brings her robust expertise in technology and investment. Learn more about her groundbreaking work and investment strategies: https://www.jc2ventures.com/jc2-ventures-team-1-1 Tune in now for expert advice on securing VC funding and taking your startup to the next level! Interested in Working with us? Have a look here: https://www.passionfroot.me/startupradio Startuprad.io™ - All Rights Reserved

Welcome to our May 2024 wrap-up, delivering vital news from the startup and tech entrepreneurship scenes in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland—all in 30 minutes or less! 🎧 Join Chris from New York City and Joe from Frankfurt as they bring you the latest updates in the GSA region. Due to Whit Monday and travel plans, this news cut is from May 16th. Any news not covered today will be included in our next wrap-up. #### Schedule: - Next Episode: June 27th - Summer Wrap-Up: September 2nd (Labor Day) We'll have a lighter summer program, possibly with more frequent updates, based on listener requests. #### Highlights: The startup scene is roaring back in GSA, with large investments and early-stage innovations. Grab a drink and a snack—this episode is packed with positive news and is longer than usual. - New VC Funds Raised: Over $7.5 billion - Germany's Air Taxi Dilemma: Lilium and Volocopter are at a crossroads, with France offering subsidies while Germany debates state support. - Amazon's €7.8 Billion Investment: Development of a purely European cloud storage infrastructure in Brandenburg. - WeFox Challenges: Valuation setbacks amid growth challenges. - Alzheimer's Research Boost: Takeda and AC Immune's $2 billion partnership. - Biontech's Resilience: Despite Q1 losses, Biontech advances its oncology pipeline and prepares for a renewed push in COVID vaccine demand. For detailed news and updates, visit our [blog](https://startuprad.io/blog) with all the latest stories. Interested in collaborations or advertising opportunities? [Storefront](https://workspace.passionfroot.me/startupradio). Don't forget to subscribe on Spotify and Apple Podcasts to stay updated with the latest news from the GSA startup scene! --- Detailed Topics: 1. Will German Air Taxis Fly? Germany debates support for air taxi startups Lilium and Volocopter, while France offers subsidies. Lilium is in advanced talks with the French government for expansion plans and potential financial aid. [Read more](https://buff.ly/3UBNCHS). 2. Amazon's Investment in Brandenburg: Amazon's €7.8 billion investment in Brandenburg to develop purely European storage capacities highlights its commitment to data sovereignty. [Read more](https://buff.ly/3V1PJpN). 3. WeFox Valuation Takes a Hit: WeFox faces valuation woes amid growth challenges, impacting its once promising trajectory in insurtech. [Read more](https://buff.ly/3UIByES). 4. Alzheimer's Research Collaboration: Takeda teams up with Swiss firm AC Immune in a deal potentially exceeding $2 billion to fight Alzheimer's. [Read more](https://buff.ly/4dJN5wk). 5. Biontech's Oncology Advances: Despite significant Q1 losses, Biontech continues to advance its oncology pipeline and prepares for a renewed push in COVID vaccine demand. [Read more](https://buff.ly/3wDhn33).

In this episode of Startuprad.io, host Jörn Menninger sits down with Alireza Siadat, a seasoned lawyer and Head of Digital Assets at Annerton, to delve into the European Union’s MiCA regulation. Discover what these stringent requirements mean for stablecoin and crypto asset service providers, the distinctions between stablecoins and asset reference tokens, and the challenges of gaining regulatory approval. This episode highlights Germany's pioneering role in crypto regulation and provides essential entrepreneurial guidance on navigating this complex landscape. Key Topics Covered: Understanding MiCA’s objectives and its impact on the crypto asset market Key implementation dates and the importance of the transitional period Differentiation between stablecoins and asset reference tokens Licensing requirements for crypto service providers How MiCA affects startups and entrepreneurs Consumer protection measures and market abuse prevention Germany's influence on EU crypto regulations Opportunities for non-EU companies through reverse solicitation Don't Miss Out: Expert insights from Alireza Siadat on the future of crypto regulations Practical advice for entrepreneurs and startups in the digital asset space Tune In and Stay Ahead: Whether you're a crypto enthusiast or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is packed with crucial information to help you stay ahead of the curve in the evolving world of crypto regulations. Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform! 🔗 Subscribe and Follow: Spotify Apple Podcasts Good Pods Stay connected with us on social media and join our newsletter for the latest updates: linktr.ee/startupradio #CryptoRegulation #MiCA #Stablecoins #DigitalAssets #Startupradio #Entrepreneurship #TechNews Interested in Working with us? Have a look here: https://www.passionfroot.me/startupradio Startuprad.io™ - All Rights Reserved