Tech Optimist: An Alumni Ventures Podcast

In this Meet the Startup episode of the Alumni Ventures Tech Optimist Podcast, Lucas Pasch sits down with Chad Gerstensang, co-founder and CEO of UNIXi, to explore how the company is redefining cybersecurity. Chad explains how UNIXi’s integration-free technology delivers universal single sign-on (SSO) to protect enterprises against social engineering attacks like phishing and credential theft. By addressing critical gaps in identity and access management solutions, UNIXi empowers businesses to secure every application seamlessly. Tune in to learn how UNIXi is shaping the future of cybersecurity and gaining traction in industries like healthcare and finance.To Learn More:Alumni Ventures (AV)AV LinkedInAV Deep Tech FundTech OptimistUNIXiLegal Disclosure:https://av-funds.com/tech-optimist-disclosuresCreators & Guests Chad Gerstensang - Guest Lucas Pasch - Guest

In this Meet the Startup episode of the Alumni Ventures Tech Optimist Podcast, we spotlight Quai Network, a trailblazer in blockchain scalability and decentralization. Co-founder Alan Orwick joins host Ray Wu to share how Quai's innovative approach, including their groundbreaking proof-of-entropy consensus mechanism and three-by-three hierarchical chain structure, achieves an astounding 50,000 transactions per second. Backed by $15 million in funding, Quai Network is addressing blockchain's "trilemma"—scalability, security, and decentralization—while introducing an energy-based stablecoin that reimagines digital currency. Dive into this exciting conversation with Ray and Alan about the future of blockchain and how Quai is leading the charge to unlock the technology's full potential.To Learn More:Alumni Ventures (AV)AV LinkedInAV Blockchain and Fintech FundTech OptimistQuai NetworkLegal Disclosure:https://av-funds.com/tech-optimist-disclosuresCreators & Guests Ray Wu - Guest Alan Orwick - Guest

In this Meet the Startup episode of the Alumni Ventures Tech Optimist Podcast, Mike Collins, CEO and Founder of Alumni Ventures, sits down with Andy Hamilton, CEO and Co-Founder of When, a Chicago-based startup transforming the often-overlooked process of employee offboarding. When helps employers turn transitions into strategic advantages by providing seamless solutions for health insurance alternatives, 401k rollovers, career resources, and more. Andy shares how personal experiences inspired the company’s mission to ensure last impressions are as impactful as first ones, while addressing critical trends in workforce turnover and the evolving needs of modern employees. Join Mike and Andy as they discuss When's innovative approach to building a better offboarding experience and the value of treating every employee transition with care and purpose.To Learn More:Alumni Ventures (AV)AV LinkedInAV Deep Tech FundTech OptimistWhenLegal Disclosure:https://av-funds.com/tech-optimist-disclosuresCreators & Guests Mike Collins - Host Andy Hamilton - Guest Shail Highbloom - Producer Sam Herrick - Producer Keith Murphy - Producer Jeannie Masters - Producer Kirsten Bannan - Producer

In this Three Breakthroughs episode of the Alumni Ventures Tech Optimist Podcast, host Mike Collins, Founder and CEO of Alumni Ventures, is joined by Senior Principal Naren Ramaswamy to explore three transformative advancements in artificial intelligence. The conversation covers the debate over AI scaling approaches, the revolutionary impact of AlphaFold 3 in molecular biology and drug discovery, and the rapid development of AI agents that promise to redefine productivity and trust. This episode offers an inspiring look at how these innovations are shaping the future of science, technology, and human collaboration.To Learn More:Alumni Ventures (AV)AV LinkedInAV Deep Tech FundTech OptimistLegal Disclosure:https://av-funds.com/tech-optimist-disclosuresCreators & Guests Mike Collins - Host Naren Ramaswamy - Guest Sam Herrick - Producer

In this Meet the Startup episode of the Alumni Ventures Tech Optimist Podcast, Laura Rippy, Managing Partner at Alumni Ventures, interviews Andreas Mjelde, CEO and Co-Founder of Two, a groundbreaking FinTech platform transforming B2B commerce. Two offers instant trade credit with fraud detection and streamlined payment processing, enabling businesses to operate more efficiently and scale globally. Andreas shares insights on Two’s innovative solutions, including its success in industries like food service and automotive, and its vision of building a network that revolutionizes net terms payments. Discover how Two is simplifying B2B transactions and driving the future of business payments.To Learn More:Alumni Ventures (AV)AV LinkedInYard VenturesTech OptimistTwoLegal Disclosure:https://av-funds.com/tech-optimist-disclosuresCreators & Guests Laura Bordewieck Rippy - Guest Andreas Mjelde - Guest Sam Herrick - Producer

In this Meet the Startup episode of the Alumni Ventures Tech Optimist Podcast, Ryan Musto sits down with Paul Lwin, CEO and co-founder of HavocAI, to explore how the company is revolutionizing maritime operations with its autonomous Uncrewed Surface Vessels (USVs). Paul shares his inspiring journey from Myanmar refugee to Naval Academy graduate and tech leader, while showcasing HavocAI’s innovative platform that enables a single operator to control thousands of USVs. They discuss the company’s role in the Department of Defense’s Replicator Initiative, partnerships with leading industry players, and its mission to deliver scalable, cost-effective solutions for defense and commercial applications. Discover how HavocAI is charting the future of maritime autonomy and redefining innovation at the intersection of technology, defense, and resilience—this is an episode you won’t want to miss!To Learn More:Alumni Ventures (AV)AV LinkedInAV Deep Tech FundTech OptimistHavocAILegal Disclosure:https://av-funds.com/tech-optimist-disclosuresCreators & Guests Paul Lwin - Guest Ryan Musto - Host Shail Highbloom - Producer Keith Murphy - Producer David Carey - Producer Jeannie Masters - Producer Kirsten Bannan - Producer Sam Herrick - Producer

In this Three Breakthroughs episode of the Alumni Ventures Tech Optimist Podcast, Mike Collins and Naren Ramaswamy spotlight three groundbreaking innovations reshaping our world. First, they unpack how AI is revolutionizing careers, urging listeners to embrace tools and skills critical for thriving in a rapidly evolving job market. Next, they examine the transformative potential of GLP-1 drugs in tackling obesity and diabetes, discussing their profound impact on public health and the wellness industry. Finally, they analyze how technology is rewriting the playbook for elections, with podcasts becoming pivotal platforms for political engagement and strategy. Don’t miss this forward-thinking discussion on the trends defining tomorrow!To Learn More:Alumni Ventures (AV)AV LinkedInAV Deep Tech FundTech OptimistLegal Disclosure:https://av-funds.com/tech-optimist-disclosuresCreators & Guests Mike Collins - Host Naren Ramaswamy - Guest Shail Highbloom - Producer Keith Murphy - Producer Jeannie Masters - Producer Kirsten Bannan - Producer John Harrison - Editor Sam Herrick - Producer

In this Meet the Startup episode of the Alumni Ventures Tech Optimist Podcast, Jason Bird interviews Jason Park, Co-founder and CEO of Coldcart, about the company’s innovative approach to solving challenges in perishable parcel logistics. Jason shares how Coldcart’s end-to-end platform helps businesses cut shipping costs by 15-50% while reducing spoilage by 40-60%. He explains how the company’s enterprise-grade technology integrates seamlessly into existing systems, optimizing routing and packaging in real time to deliver consistent quality. With 3 billion perishable parcels shipped annually in the U.S., Jason highlights Coldcart’s readiness to scale and its mission to transform an underserved market. Discover how Coldcart is reshaping the future of perishable logistics and what makes this fast-growing startup a game-changer in an evolving industry—don’t miss this insightful conversation! To Learn More:Alumni Ventures (AV)AV LinkedInAV Seed FundTech OptimistColdcartLegal Disclosure:https://av-funds.com/tech-optimist-disclosuresCreators & Guests Jason Bird - Guest Jason Park - Guest Sam Herrick - Producer Shail Highbloom - Producer David Carey - Producer Keith Murphy - Producer Jeannie Masters - Producer Kirsten Bannan - Producer

In this Meet the Startup episode of the Alumni Ventures Tech Optimist Podcast, we spotlight HeronAI, a groundbreaking Boston-based startup redefining data analytics. Co-founder and CEO Daphne Pariser shares the journey behind their AI-powered platform, which is transforming how businesses manage data. Learn how HeronAI automates processes, generates dashboards in minutes, and simplifies data integration, offering a seamless and accessible experience for enterprises and SMBs alike. With impressive milestones like winning $1 million at the 43North competition, HeronAI is a testament to innovation driving real-world impact. Tune in to discover how they’re shaping the future of decision-making, one dashboard at a time.To Learn More:Alumni Ventures (AV)AV LinkedInCastor Ventures (An AV Fund)Tech OptimistHeronAILegal Disclosure:https://av-funds.com/tech-optimist-disclosuresCreators & Guests Chris Sklarin - Guest Daphne Pariser, Ph.D. - Guest Sam Herrick - Producer Shail Highbloom - Producer David Carey - Producer Keith Murphy - Producer Jeannie Masters - Producer Kirsten Bannan - Producer

In this Three Breakthroughs episode of the Alumni Ventures Tech Optimist Podcast, Mike Collins and Naren Ramaswamy explore game-changing advancements shaping the future of technology. They discuss prediction markets and their impact on election forecasting, highlighting how innovation is redefining traditional polling. The conversation moves to brain-computer interfaces, featuring a breakthrough device by Synchron that empowers individuals with paralysis to interact with technology in revolutionary ways. Finally, the duo examines the rise of AI-driven collaboration and creativity, showcasing examples like meme-generating AI bots and the productivity enhancements offered by emerging tools. This episode highlights how innovation continues to transform our world.To Learn More:Alumni Ventures (AV)AV LinkedInAV Deep Tech FundTech OptimistLegal Disclosure:https://av-funds.com/tech-optimist-disclosuresCreators & Guests Mike Collins - Host Naren Ramaswamy - Guest Shail Highbloom - Producer Keith Murphy - Producer Jeannie Masters - Producer Kirsten Bannan - Producer John Harrison - Editor Sam Herrick - Producer

In this Meet the Startup episode of the Alumni Ventures Tech Optimist Podcast, Chris Sklarin sits down with Erik Severinghaus, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Bloomfilter, an innovative startup revolutionizing software development. Erik shares Bloomfilter's mission to bring clarity and efficiency to the software development life cycle through cutting-edge process mining and AI-driven insights. The conversation dives into Erik's entrepreneurial journey, the challenges of scaling startups, and how Bloomfilter is addressing inefficiencies that have long plagued software development. Tune in for an inspiring look at how innovation is transforming the way software is built.To Learn More:Alumni Ventures (AV)AV LinkedInAV Deep Tech FundTech OptimistBloomfilterSpeakers:Chris SklarinErik SeveringhausChapters:(00:00) - Interview (08:25) - Lessons in Leadership and Innovation (15:06) - Bloomfilter Origin (24:03) - Revolutionizing the Software Development Life Cycle (31:51) - Alumni Ventures Value-Add (39:39) - Erik's Ask (40:33) - Closing Legal Disclosure:https://av-funds.com/tech-optimist-disclosures

In this Meet the Startup episode of the Alumni Ventures Tech Optimist Podcast, Meera Oak, Partner at Alumni Ventures, interviews Ross Correia, co-founder and CEO of Reactiv, a Toronto-based startup transforming mobile commerce. Ross shares how Reactiv’s AI-powered platform, featuring a no-code app builder, AI-driven customization, and innovative Reactiv Clips, enables merchants to create seamless mobile shopping experiences. The conversation dives into Reactiv’s $5 million seed round led by Bonfire Ventures, its rapid growth trajectory, and its mission to make mobile apps accessible and impactful for e-commerce businesses of all sizes. Listen now to uncover how Reactiv is redefining mobile commerce and inspiring the next wave of innovation for businesses everywhere.To Learn More:Alumni Ventures (AV)AV LinkedInAV Seed FundTech OptimistReactivSpeakers:Meera Oak Ross CorreiaLegal Disclosure:https://av-funds.com/tech-optimist-disclosures

In this Three Breakthroughs episode of the Alumni Ventures Tech Optimist Podcast, Mike Collins and Naren Ramaswamy discuss three cutting-edge innovations reshaping technology and society. Explore Eve, a groundbreaking robotic fish collecting environmental DNA to revolutionize marine research. Dive into Google's Project Jarvis, an AI-powered digital assistant poised to transform how we interact with technology. Finally, learn how Meta's emerging search engine is challenging Google's dominance while redefining personalized data access. This episode highlights the convergence of conservation, automation, and innovation, offering an inspiring glimpse into the future of technology.To Learn More:Alumni Ventures (AV)AV LinkedInAV Deep Tech FundTech OptimistChapters:(00:00) - Intro (03:24) - Robotic fish (14:43) - Project Jarvis (24:29) - Meta's search engine (34:11) - Closing Legal Disclosure:https://av-funds.com/tech-optimist-disclosuresCreators & Guests Mike Collins - Host Naren Ramaswamy - Guest Shail Highbloom - Producer Keith Murphy - Producer Jeannie Masters - Producer Kirsten Bannan - Producer John Harrison - Editor Sam Herrick - Producer

In this Meet the Startup episode of the Alumni Ventures Tech Optimist Podcast, we explore SIQ Basketball, a groundbreaking innovation transforming how players train and improve. CEO Erik Anderson joins Alumni Ventures’ Keaton Nankivil to highlight the FIBA-approved smart basketball that uses a patented 9D sensor to track over 190 data points per shot. Paired with a cutting-edge app, the ball provides real-time analytics, personalized feedback, and gamified training for players of all levels. With a major partnership with Spalding and a vision for expanding its technology, SIQ Basketball is set to redefine sports performance and accessibility. Tune in to discover how technology is shaping the future of sports and empowering athletes at every level.To Learn More:Alumni Ventures (AV)AV LinkedInAV Sports FundTech OptimistSIQ BasketballCreators & Guests Keaton Nankivil - Guest Erik Anderson - Guest Sam Herrick - Producer Shail Highbloom - Producer David Carey - Producer Keith Murphy - Producer Jeannie Masters - Producer Kirsten Bannan - Producer Chapters:(00:00) - Intro (03:55) - Interview (24:05) - Erik's Ask (25:12) - Closing Legal Disclosure:https://av-funds.com/tech-optimist-disclosures

In this Meet the Startup episode of the Alumni Ventures Tech Optimist Podcast, Laura Bordewieck Rippy interviews Gautam Narang, CEO and co-founder of Gatik, to discuss how the company is revolutionizing middle-mile logistics through autonomous technology. Gautam highlights Gatik’s journey from its founding in 2017 to becoming an industry leader, with achievements like driver-out commercial deliveries for Walmart and partnerships with major brands like Isuzu and Kroger. The episode explores how Gatik's AI-powered trucks optimize supply chains, tackle driver shortages, and redefine safety and scalability in autonomous transportation.To Learn More:Alumni Ventures (AV)AV LinkedInGreen D Ventures Fund (An AV fund for fellow Dartmouth alums) Tech OptimistGatikSpeakers:Laura Rippy Gautam NarangChapters:(00:00) - Intro (06:54) - Interview (38:09) - Gautam's Ask (40:00) - Closing Legal Disclosure:https://av-funds.com/tech-optimist-disclosures

In this Three Breakthroughs episode of the Alumni Ventures Tech Optimist Podcast, host Mike Collins and Naren Ramaswamy explore transformative innovations reshaping our future. They discuss AI-powered nuclear energy solutions fueling data centers, the rise of self-driving cars like Tesla’s Cyber Taxis and Waymo’s fleets, and their potential to revolutionize cities and transportation. The episode also highlights Qure.ai’s groundbreaking AI technology for early lung cancer detection, offering life-saving advancements in healthcare. These breakthroughs showcase the power of innovation to solve critical challenges and create a brighter tomorrow.To Learn More:Alumni Ventures (AV)AV LinkedInAV Deep Tech FundTech OptimistSpeakers:Mike Collins Naren Ramaswamy  Chapters:(00:00) - Intro (03:31) - AI and nuclear energy for data centers (16:28) - Self-driving cars and urban transformation (32:54) - AI in healthcare for early cancer detection (44:05) - Closing Legal Disclosure:https://av-funds.com/tech-optimist-disclosures

In this Blue Flame Thinkers episode of the Alumni Ventures Tech Optimist Podcast, host Mike Collins welcomes Russell Hannigan, a visionary in the commercial space industry, to discuss the transformative possibilities emerging in space technology. Together, they explore the growing need for a "railroad to space" that would drastically lower the cost of launches, making space more accessible for innovation and entrepreneurship. Russell highlights pivotal trends, from reusable rockets to the potential of commercializing space-based manufacturing, emphasizing how these advancements could redefine what is feasible in orbit. The conversation also covers the challenges of reducing launch costs, enabling large-scale satellite services, and fostering competition within the private space sector to drive progress. Russell and Mike touch on how the U.S. remains at the forefront of space investments, but also acknowledge the increasing global competition. Russell shares his passion for making space economically sustainable, hoping to inspire a future where millions can contribute to and benefit from space-based industries. This episode sheds light on the entrepreneurial spirit needed to tackle the immense challenges of space and presents a compelling vision of a future where innovation knows no boundaries.To Learn More:Alumni Ventures (AV)AV LinkedInTech Optimist AV Deep Tech FundSpeakers:Mike Collins Russell J HanniganChapters:(00:00) - Intro (04:31) - Interview (39:48) - Closing Legal Disclosure:https://av-funds.com/tech-optimist-disclosures

In this Three Breakthroughs episode of the Alumni Ventures Tech Optimist Podcast, Mike Collins and Naren Ramaswamy spotlight three pioneering advances that are shaping the future. They begin with AlphaFold 3 from Google DeepMind, which has revolutionized biology by predicting complex protein interactions, vastly accelerating research in drug discovery and genomics. Next, they discuss Tesla’s Optimus, a humanoid robot set to bring automation into daily life with capabilities from household chores to industrial tasks, showcasing the rapid progress in robotics. Finally, they explore SpaceX's latest Starship feat: launching and successfully catching a skyscraper-sized rocket mid-air, a breakthrough that reduces costs and enhances reusability, laying the groundwork for an expanding space economy. Tune in to discover how these advances are transforming tech's role in healthcare, robotics, and space.To Learn More:Alumni Ventures (AV)AV LinkedInAV Deep Tech FundTech OptimistSpeakers:Mike Collins Naren Ramaswamy  Chapters:(00:00) - Intro (03:21) - AlphaFold (21:37) - Tesla’s Optimus (31:19) - SpaceX's Starship (39:15) - Closing Legal Disclosure:https://av-funds.com/tech-optimist-disclosures

In this Meet the Startup episode of the Alumni Ventures Tech Optimist Podcast, Managing Partner Ray Wu sits down with David Tse, co-founder of Babylon, to explore the company’s groundbreaking approach to Bitcoin staking. Babylon enables Bitcoin holders to stake their assets securely on proof-of-stake networks without the need for complex bridging, enhancing both blockchain security and capital efficiency. Tse explains how Babylon’s innovative protocol leverages Bitcoin’s security for the broader ecosystem, creating new opportunities for Bitcoin holders while addressing key challenges in decentralized finance. With over $1.5 billion in total value locked and backing from major investors like Paradigm, Babylon is on a mission to shape the future of blockchain infrastructure.To Learn More:Alumni Ventures (AV)AV LinkedInAV Blockchain and Fintech FundTech OptimistBabylonSpeakers:Ray WuDavid TseChapters:(00:00) - Intro (04:46) - Interview (21:12) - David's Ask (22:11) - Closing Legal Disclosure:https://av-funds.com/tech-optimist-disclosures

In this Meet the Startup episode of the Alumni Ventures Tech Optimist Podcast, Jason Bird chats with David T. Scott, CEO of Evil Genius Games, about how the company is modernizing tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) with a digital-first platform. David shares how Evil Genius Games combines cutting-edge tech with licensed movie franchises like John Wick and Pacific Rim to offer diverse, action-packed storytelling experiences beyond traditional fantasy. With a focus on inclusivity and community-driven content, Evil Genius Games is expanding TTRPG appeal and redefining immersive play for a new generation of gamers.David's Ask: David’s primary asks for Evil Genius Games are for continued fundraising support, introductions to Hollywood studios to expand their licensed intellectual property partnerships, and help from community advocates to encourage TTRPG players to try out their platform. To Learn More:Alumni Ventures (AV)AV LinkedInAV Seed FundTech OptimistEvil Genius GamesSpeakers:Jason Bird - GuestDavid T. Scott - Guest Chapters:(00:00) - Intro (03:09) - Interview (11:27) - David's Ask (14:04) - Closing Legal Disclosure:https://av-funds.com/tech-optimist-disclosures