Somi Arian Podcast

#149 - Aravinda Seshadri: Mistakes Startups Make & How to Avoid Them

In this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Aravinda Seshadri, Founding Partner of Venturous Counsel, a trailblazing firm dedicated to supporting underrepresented startups and investors while advocating for diversity within their communities.
Aravinda brings over a decade of expertise in the legal and startup landscape, guiding strategic partnerships and providing top-tier legal counsel to propel these ventures toward success.
This conversation delves into key aspects of the legal and startup landscape. We explore Aravinda's background and decade-long journey, with insights into the crucial role of vesting shares in startup equity, effective strategies for managing pivots, and valuable advice on navigating legal automation on startup founders. This episode offers a comprehensive overview of essential topics, providing valuable insights for entrepreneurs and investors alike.
 
Follow Aravinda👇 LinkedIn: Aravinda Seshadri X: @aravinda https://venturouscounsel.com/https://www.clerky.com/ 
 
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Dance, Don't Delay by Twin Musicom is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Source: http://www.twinmusicom.org/song/303/dance-dont-delayArtist: http://www.twinmusicom.org

#148 - PrimeHire - How to Find Top Senior Engineers

Today, I'm thrilled to welcome Horia Oltean. He’s the co-founder of Prime Hire, a pioneering staff augmentation firm that's redefining how companies connect with top-tier engineering talent.
Now, let's hold off on any preconceptions of a dry discussion on hiring. We're about to unpack a critical challenge faced by leaders across industries – securing elite senior software engineers. Horia sheds light on the stark reality: the pool of seasoned engineers is not just limited; it's fiercely contested, predominantly by the tech giants.
Enter PrimeHire, our newest Service Partner at InPeak, tackling this very dilemma head-on. Their innovative approach not only bridges the gap but also offers a unique proposition – the opportunity to seamlessly integrate these talents into your teams.
Today's conversation is brimming with invaluable insights and actionable strategies that you simply can't afford to miss.
LinkedIn : Horia Oltean
PrimeHire X: @PrimeHireio
PrimeHire Web: https://www.primehire.io/ 
 
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Dance, Don't Delay by Twin Musicom is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Source: http://www.twinmusicom.org/song/303/dance-dont-delayArtist: http://www.twinmusicom.org

#147 - Saqib Bhatti MP, UK Technology Minister

Join us for an insightful conversation with Saqib Bhatti, the Minister of Technology, as we explore his journey from chartered accountant to influential political figure shaping the UK's technology and investment landscape. Minister Bhatti shares invaluable insights into the strategic initiatives driving the UK's tech ecosystem forward, offering key perspectives for both entrepreneurs and investors.
Discover the dynamic landscape of the UK's tech scene and the pivotal role of policy in fostering innovation. From supporting startups to charting the future of technological advancements, Minister Bhatti provides a deep dive into the opportunities and challenges facing tech entrepreneurs in the UK and beyond.
Tune in for an engaging dialogue that promises to inspire and inform, offering a glimpse into the exciting future of technology and entrepreneurship.
Follow Minister Bhatti👇 LinkedIn: Saqib Bhatti MP MBEX: @bhatti_saqib Insta: @saqibbhatti_
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Dance, Don't Delay by Twin Musicom is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Source: http://www.twinmusicom.org/song/303/dance-dont-delayArtist: http://www.twinmusicom.org

#146 - Nick and Marina Davidovs: Immigrant VCs - A Silicon Valley Success Story

My guests in today’s podcast are Nick and Marina Davidovs, the dynamic duo behind the success of DVC, their Silicon Valley-based venture firm. Partners not just in business but in life, the Davidovs share their remarkable journey from Russia to the heart of Silicon Valley, achieving milestones that have left an indelible mark in less than a decade.
Discover the riveting narrative of two immigrants who turned challenges into opportunities, carving out a niche for themselves in the fast-paced world of technology and entrepreneurship. Nick and Marina bring a unique perspective and a compelling point of view to the table, making this episode a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration and insight.
In this engaging conversation, we delve into the intricacies of their experiences, the hurdles they overcame, and the lessons learned along the way. Join us as we explore their remarkable achievements, fueled by resilience, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of their goals.
Nick Davidov👇 LinkedIn: @ndavidovInsta: @ndavidovX: @Nick_Davidov 
Marina Davidova👇LinkedIn: @msdavidovaInsta: @msdavidova
Davidovs Venture Capital👇
DVC Web: https://davidovs.com/ 
 
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Dance, Don't Delay by Twin Musicom is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Source: http://www.twinmusicom.org/song/303/dance-dont-delayArtist: http://www.twinmusicom.org

#145 - Venture Insights with Gabriel Jarrosson: Navigating Y Combinator and Entrepreneurial Triumphs

In today's episode, I'm thrilled to be in conversation with Gabriel Jarrosson, a prominent French VC specialising in investments within the Y Combinator ecosystem. Gabriel's entrepreneurial spirit ignited at the age of 13 when he created his first website, and by 25, he had already sold his first startup.
He is also known for his influential YouTube channel 'Leonis Investissement,' a go-to source of investment insights in France. Join us as we delve into his remarkable journey, unravelling the strategies and invaluable insights that will captivate both investors and founders among our listeners.
Whether you're keen on venture capital dynamics, startup growth, or seeking inspiration from entrepreneurial successes, this conversation promises a wealth of wisdom. Tune in for a captivating discussion that offers a unique glimpse into the world of Y Combinator and the entrepreneurial triumphs.
 
Follow Gabriel👇LinkedIn: Gabriel Jarrosson X: @GJarrosson Insta: @gabrieldeleonisLobster Capital: https://www.lobstercap.com/ Leonis Investment YT: @LeonisInvest 
 
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Dance, Don't Delay by Twin Musicom is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Source: http://www.twinmusicom.org/song/303/dance-dont-delayArtist: http://www.twinmusicom.org
 
 

#144 - Sandy Carter - COO of Unstoppable Domains on Digital Identity and AI

Today's guest is Sandy Carter, COO of Unstoppable Domains, on a mission to create a user-owned digital identity for every person on the planet. With a rich history of influential roles at tech giants such as AWS and IBM, Sandy has left an indelible mark on the industry. In this episode, we delve into her groundbreaking contributions to AI, particularly her instrumental role in developing Watson and shaping AI tooling.
Sandy's approach to collaboration, driven by a relentless commitment to delivering customer value, and a profound belief in the transformative power of team dynamics, has spearheaded significant advancements in AI applications, setting a new standard for innovation.
Sandy's latest venture is her compelling new book titled “The Tiger and the Rabbit: Harnessing the Power of the Metaverse, WEB3, and AI for Business Success.” This conversation is your exclusive opportunity to gain insights into the future of technology and business, as Sandy shares her expertise and vision.
 
Follow Sandy👇
LinkedIn: Sandy Carter
X: @sandy_carter 
Unstoppable Domains: https://unstoppabledomains.com/ 
 
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Dance, Don't Delay by Twin Musicom is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Source: http://www.twinmusicom.org/song/303/dance-dont-delayArtist: http://www.twinmusicom.org

#143 - Janos Barberis: Balancing Mental Health in the Startup Hustle

In today's episode, I speak with Janos Barberis, Co-Founder of SuperCharger Ventures, the largest EdTech-only accelerator globally, and CEO of Founders Taboo, dedicated to strengthening the start-up ecosystem by empowering founders to support their mental health. Also, before his work in EdTech and founders' mental health, Janos came from a rich background in Fintech. I discovered Janos’ insights on Founder Wellbeing via LinkedIn, and when we spoke, I felt there was something special and authentic about his energy and perspective. Janos opens up about his mental health journey, offering valuable tools and techniques developed through personal experience, which he now candidly shares with the world.I invite you to immerse yourself in this meaningful conversation, exploring not only the startup world but also the essential journey of mental well-being. I trust you'll find it as enriching as I did.
Follow Janos Barberis👇LinkedIn: Janos BarberisX: @Jnbarberis Founders Taboo Web: https://www.founderstaboo.com/ 
 
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Dance, Don't Delay by Twin Musicom is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Source: http://www.twinmusicom.org/song/303/dance-dont-delayArtist: http://www.twinmusicom.org

#142 - Outlier Ventures - Is Web3 Ready for a Resurgence?

In today's episode, I speak with Rumi Morales, a Partner and Board Member at Outlier Ventures, the powerhouse behind the world's most active Web3 accelerator. Joining me as co-host is Sadie Raney, the CEO, and Co-Founder of Strix Leviathan and now also the co-founder and CEO of EveWealth a digital asset investing platform focused on women
We're taking a deep dive into the blockchain industry especially as we have so many Web3 and Blockchain startups on our platform. We're also exploring the concept of decentralisation, how it aligns with human nature, and its game-changing impact on how emerging businesses make money.
Rumi and Sadie bring their unique perspectives to the table, making this conversation not just informative but also a lot of fun. I thoroughly enjoyed the chat, and I'm confident you'll find it both insightful and enjoyable.
Follow Outlier Ventures👇
Web: https://outlierventures.io/ 
X: @OVioHQ 
Follow Rumi Morales👇Partner and Board MemberPartner, Outlier Ventures
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rumimorales/ 
X: @rumimorales
Follow Sadie Raney👇CEO & Co-Founder, Strix Leviathan 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sadieraney/
X: @SadieRaney
 
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Dance, Don't Delay by Twin Musicom is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Source: http://www.twinmusicom.org/song/303/dance-dont-delayArtist: http://www.twinmusicom.org

#141 - Saeed Amidi - Saudi Arabia: The New Tech Hub

Today’s episode is a very special one. I sat down in person with Saeed Amidi, the Founder and CEO of Plug & Play. This is a global open innovation platform with a unique business model. I’ve been watching, learning, and taking inspiration from Plug and Play as I build the InPeak Network.
Saeed and I spoke about my upcoming documentary, centred around Saudi Arabia’s tech emergence. Saeed’s journey in Silicon Valley is both inspiring and intriguing and stands as a testament to being in the right place at the right time and dreaming big. With Saudi’s rise to prominence in the technology scene, we’re once again at the start of something big happening that we have an opportunity to be a part of.
Tune in to hear Saeed’s journey during the rise of Silicon Valley, and Saudi Arabia’s open-minded approach to becoming the next big tech hub.
 
Follow Saeed👇
LinkedIn: Saeed Amidi
X: @SaeedAmidi
Plug and Play X: @PlugandPlayTC 
Plug and Play Web: https://www.plugandplaytechcenter.com/ 
 
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Dance, Don't Delay by Twin Musicom is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Source: http://www.twinmusicom.org/song/303/dance-dont-delay
Artist: http://www.twinmusicom.org

#140 - Chai Ventures and the Roadmap for Inclusive Investment

In today's episode, I speak with Rajiv Kapoor, the visionary behind Chai Ventures, a female-focused venture firm. I'm thrilled to share this discussion with you as we dive into Rajiv's background, exploring pivotal moments in his journey and shedding light on his dedication to reshaping the landscape of venture capital by amplifying the presence of women.
I feel so fortunate that through this platform, I get to meet incredible people like Rajiv, who are tirelessly working towards reshaping the narrative of venture capital, making it more inclusive for women.
Follow Rajiv and Chai Ventures:
- LinkedIn: Rajiv Kapoor
- Chai Ventures Web: https://chaiventures.io/
- Chai Ventures X: @ChaiVentures_ 
 
 
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Dance, Don't Delay by Twin Musicom is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Source: http://www.twinmusicom.org/song/303/dance-dont-delay
Artist: http://www.twinmusicom.org