Accelerating Returns

Diego Calligaro CEO of ICEO Technologies, interviews Jon Staenberg, who has made more than 350 angel investments and managed portfolios exceeding $400 million. He is the Founder of Agate Hound Fund, the world’s first Fund of Funds investing in search funds. In this conversation, Jon Steinberg discusses his journey in the investment world, focusing on search funds and entrepreneurship through acquisition. He shares insights on the motivation behind his work, the intricacies of search funds, and the process of acquiring, growing and selling small businesses and investments. 00:00 Introduction and Motivation 03:50 Understanding Search Funds 06:22 Transition from Venture Capital to Search Funds 11:12 Identifying Target Companies 18:44 Acquisition Process and Challenges 25:31 Success Stories and Automation Potential 30:25 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 34:20 Reflections on Change and the FutureNeed 1 to 1 support from world-class leaders and investors to raise funds? Claim your free session here https://www.iceo.io

Diego Calligaro interviews Patricia Pastor, a General Partner at NextTier Ventures, and discusses her experience managing over €150 million in VC funds, including a new €50 million AI-focused fund. The conversation covers the evolution of AI investment from a niche field to a booming industry, her process for identifying red flags and promising startups, and key traits for successful founders. Patricia also shares insights on the investment process, the need for more women in the VC world, and advice for founders seeking funding. 00:00 The Evolution of AI Investment 02:46 Identifying Promising AI Startups 05:33 Navigating the AI Investment Landscape 07:22 The Role of Founders in AI Ventures 09:38 Investment Strategies and Decision-Making 12:16 Fundraising Challenges and Strategies 14:28 Women in Investment: Bridging the Gap 23:43 Reflections on Career and Future of AI Need 1 to 1 guidance from world-class leaders? Claim your free session here https://www.iceo.io

Diego Calligaro of ICEO Technologies interviews Kartik Gada, a renowned futurist who teaches finance and technology at Stanford University, has raised $800 million in investments, and has managed many M&As. In this conversation, Kartik explores how accelerating technological change is reshaping the economy and society. He highlights the deflationary impact of technology and the growing role of technology in driving growth. He also discusses why a technological singularity could arrive around 2060, the related problem of government inefficiency, AI and AGI, and ethical dilemmas. Concluding with practical advice for entrepreneurs and investors navigating this rapid transformation. 00:00 The Accelerating Rate of Change 03:50 High Tech's Role in Acceleration 06:55 Future Projections of High Tech Growth 09:13 Deflationary Aspects of High Tech 12:19 Monetary Policy in a Deflationary Economy 14:36 Understanding the Technological Singularity 18:50 Infrastructure for the Future 21:35 Government Efficiency and Economic Growth 24:14 The Need for a New Computational Paradigm 27:46 Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Work 30:32 The Impact of AI on Employment and Society 35:31 Ethical Considerations in Technological Advancement 37:58 The Limits of Technology in Extending Human Life 41:18 Potential Dangers of Technological Progress 43:09 Advice for Individuals and Entrepreneurs Need 1 to 1 guidance from world-class tech leaders? Claim your free session here https://www.iceo.io/technology-strategy

Diego Calligaro of ICEO Technologies interviews Mirco Patroncini, the Chief Technology Officer of Lastminute.com, a publicly traded company in the traveltech industry with over 1.400 employees. Mirco has also held leadership positions in several corporations, like the 1.2 billion dollar YOOX-Net-a-Porter.Mirco shares insights into his leadership philosophy, the importance of people in technology, the role of AI, and the challenges of transitioning to a CTO role. He discusses decision-making, fostering innovation, and the impact of AI on the travel industry. Mirco emphasizes the need for a balance between technology and human connection, addressing fears related to job displacement due to AI, and providing advice for future CTOs. 00:00 The Power of People in Leadership 03:59 Diverse Background Shaping Leadership 07:23 Transitioning to CTO: A Mindset Shift0 9:17 Decision-Making in Leadership 12:07 Daily Responsibilities of a CTO 14:41 Fostering a Culture of Innovation 19:23 Navigating Fears as a CTO 22:11 The Role of AI and Human Touch 23:34 The Human Touch in Customer Service 26:51 Emerging Trends in Travel Technology 27:05 The Impact of AI on Customer Experience 29:53 AI's Role in Technology and Development 32:26 The Reality of AI in the Workforce 40:38 Advice for CTOs and Leadership 42:43 Reflections on Career Growth and Change 45:00 Concerns and Excitement for the Digital Future Follow us: Instagram: @accelerating.returns Linkedin: Diego Calligaro

Diego Calligaro of ICEO Technologies interviews Roland Austrup, the Chairman and Co-founder of a $1.7 Billion hedge fund, and Chief Growth Officer of Innventure, a public conglomerate listed on NASDAQ that creates billion-dollar companies by using the uncommercialized technologies of multinationals.He discusses the systemic process to identify opportunities and build billion-dollar companies, the unused R&D assets of multinationals and how to leverage them, the differeces with the Venture Capital model, and the strategic reasons for going public. He also offers valuable insights about the hedge fund industry, his past experiences and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.00:00 Introduction to Roland Austrup05:27 The Journey to Inventure09:34 Addressing R&D Challenges in Multinationals13:43 Inventure's Systematic Approach to Company Creation17:50 Economic Arrangements with Multinationals21:38 Comparing Inventure's Model to Traditional VC25:53 Challenges in Building the Inventure Model29:33 Going Public: Pros and Cons33:54 Navigating Geopolitical Risks37:47 The Future of Innovation and TechnologyFollow us: Instagram: @accelerating.returnsLinkedin: Diego Calligaro

Diego Calligaro of ICEO Technologies interviews Andriy Burkov, one of the most influencial AI expert in the world. He is the author of several AI best-selling books like The Hundred-Page Machine Learning Book, and has over 1 million AI enthusiasts who follow his insights in his LinkedIn newsletter and social media platforms. In this conversation Andriy discusses the limitations of Large Language Models like ChatGPT, including the challenge of "hallucinations" in AI responses, the importance of data in AI development, copyright issues, the implications of AI agents, and the future of Artificial General Intelligence. 00:00 Embracing Change: Andri's Journey to Writing 05:31 Understanding AI: Definitions and Concepts 09:45 The Mechanics of Large Language Models 14:00 The Illusion of Intelligence: Hallucinations in AI 18:23 Navigating Limitations: Use Cases for AI 22:42 Leveraging Internal Data: Challenges and Solutions 26:26 The Future of AI: Addressing Quality and Reliability 38:36 The Challenge of Distinguishing AI-Generated Content 43:17 Copyright Issues in the Age of AI 50:28 Data Privacy and LLMs 56:25 The Future of AI Agents 01:00:46 Predictions for AGI and the Future 01:06:17 Reflections on Career and Life Choices 01:08:33 Navigating the Digital Future 01:12:02 New Chapter Follow us: Instagram: @accelerating.returns Linkedin: Diego Calligaro

Diego Calligaro, CEO of ICEO Technologies, interviews Xavier Castellana, the CFO of Amenitiz, and former CFO of Typeform (almost $1 billion valuation), and Travelperk ($2.7 billions valuation). Xavier has raised more than $350 million in equity investments and financing for his startups and has managed 3 exits in his career. In this episode, Xavier shares his valuable insights on leadership, fundraising strategies, the real challenges startups face, what business metrics to use and how, the balance between equity and debt financing, market dynamics, and the role of a CFO. He also discusses the impact of AI on business management and the significance of maintaining company culture during tough times. A must-listen for CEOs and entrepreneurs seeking practical advice on investment and growth! 00:00 Introduction and Motivation as a Leader 05:19 Raising Capital: Experiences and Challenges 09:19 Differences in Fundraising Stages 13:38 Key Metrics for Fundraising Success 17:42 Balancing Growth and Profitability 21:43 Choosing Between Equity and Debt Financing 25:40 Identifying Winning Companies 29:24 The Role of CFO in a Startup Environment 30:15 The Role of CFO in Business Strategy 31:26 Challenges in Early-Stage Companies 33:51 Scaling Up: Roadblocks in Growth 37:08 Navigating Profitability vs. Growth 41:16 Investing in AI: Opportunities and Strategies 42:45 Handling Crisis: Layoffs and Cultural Recovery 45:41 Advice for CEOs on Fundraising 48:16 Future Aspirations and Reflections on Career Follow us: Instagram: @accelerating.returnsLinkedin: Diego Calligaro

Diego Calligaro interviews Antonio Avitabile, the Managing Director Europe of Sony Innovation Fund, the Venture Capital arm of Sony. In this conversation, Antonio discusses the importance of responsible investing, particularly in the context of venture capital. He emphasizes the need for investors to consider the impact of their investments on future generations and the world at large. Antonio outlines the investment strategies employed by Sony Innovation Fund, focusing on early-stage and growth-stage startups, and highlights the significance of team dynamics in successful investments. He shares insights on ethical investing, the role of AI in shaping the future, and offers advice for startups seeking investment. 00:00 Investment Strategies at Sony 05:04 Key Metrics and Portfolio Management 08:37 Identifying the Right Investment Targets 11:00 The Responsibility of Impact Investing 14:00 Examples of Impactful Investments 16:07 Values in Investment Decisions 19:17 Emerging Technologies and Investment Focus 23:17 The Future of AI and Regulation 30:57 Advice for Startups Seeking Investment 33:17 Reflections on Venture Capital and Career 38:13 Excitement and Concerns about the Digital Future Follow us: Instagram: @accelerating.returns Linkedin: Diego Calligaro

Thomas Bigagli has invested in 200+ startups from pre-seed to Series A as venture capitalists and angel investors, helping them scale and achieve key milestones. Thomas is a Partner at Plug and Play, one of the world’s most active Venture Capital funds with 2% of global unicorns in its portfolio and the largest Open Innovation Platform. He oversees investments and empowers teams across 30+ Plug and Play locations in EMEA. 00:00 The Drive Behind Innovation 04:50 Identifying Winning Startups 07:11 Navigating Market Trends and Bubbles 09:51 The Art of Follow-On Investments 12:41 Screening and Investing in Startups 14:59 The Role of Networking in Deal Flow 17:28 FOMO and Investment Decisions 19:44 Learning from Missed Opportunities 22:19 Red Flags in Startup Investments 26:59 Investment Process Insights 30:10 Deep Tech: The Future of Investment 32:47 Trends in the VC Industry 34:14 Technology's Role in Venture Capital 35:50 Automation in Venture Capital 37:54 The Future of Venture Capital 39:00 Personal Milestones and Future Goals 39:58 Influential Entrepreneurs 43:21 Advice for Investors and Founders 45:42 Reflections on Career Choices 46:54 Concerns and Excitement for the Future Follow us: Instagram: ⁠@accelerating.returns⁠ Linkedin: ⁠Diego Calligaro

Stephane Nasser is the founder of the investment platform OpenVC. The startups using OpenVC have raised over $1 billion from major investors such as Google, Sequoia, and NASA. In this interview we delve into the structure of Venture Capital funding, psychological triggers, ROI expectations, how to win VCs, the role of AI in VCs, harsh realities, poverty and investment scams. 00:00 Introduction to OpenVC and Fundraising Challenges 02:47 Building OpenVC: The Journey Begins 05:10 Community Engagement and Feedback Loop 07:35 Bridging the Gap: Founders and Investors 10:08 Data-Driven VC Trends and Automation 12:38 The Future of Investment Decisions 15:00 AI in Pitch Deck Assessment 17:15 The Importance of Online Presence for Founders 19:55 Inbound Fundraising Strategies 22:15 Understanding Investor Feedback Dynamics 30:39 Navigating Negative Feedback from Investors 32:55 The Dark Side of Fundraising: Scammers and Advisors 37:23 Understanding the VC Ecosystem: LPs, VCs, and Founders 45:07 The Financial Reality of Venture Capital 49:41 Best Practices for Fundraising: Time and Strategy 54:15 Common Mistakes Founders Make in Fundraising 59:04 Advice for Founders and VCs: Learning the Game 01:02:05 The Future of Technology: Robotics and AI Follow us: Instagram: ⁠@accelerating.returns⁠ Linkedin: ⁠Diego Calligaro

Diego Calligaro interviews Serap Zel. Serap Zel has been the HR Director of Maersk, BIC, and HR Partner of Meta in Europe, US and Middle East. She is now CEO of Uplift People Consulting which have hired top talent across 50 countries and 27 industries. Serap has run many leadership programs within major multinationals and she has personally hired over 700+ employees and 100+ C-level executives in over 50 countries. 00:00 The Talent Mindset in Leadership 02:58 Navigating the Talent War 05:58 The Role of Technology in Recruitment 09:00 Assessing Emerging Roles 12:02 The Art and Science of Recruitment 14:57 Bias in Recruitment Processes 17:51 Identifying the Right Candidate 21:10 Key Traits for Success24:03 Attracting Top Talent 26:49 The Evolution of HR Roles 29:53 Leadership Development and Challenges 33:06 Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace 34:43 The Power of Diversity and Inclusion 38:08 Overcoming Gender Barriers in Leadership 42:08 The Role of Men in Supporting Women Leaders 46:05 The Impact of Technology on Recruitment 51:14 Navigating the Future of Hiring with AI 01:06:51 Embracing Change in a Digital Future Follow us: Instagram: @accelerating.returns Linkedin: Diego Calligaro

Diego Calligaro interviews David Adams. David drives the energy transition by leading multi-billion-dollar investments in the energy supply chain for Gotion, one of the world’s largest energy storage companies with over $5 billions in revenue. Over his career, David has also founded 3 successful companies, raised $90 million in venture capital, early investor of 2 public companies, involved in 20 M&As, and achieved a remarkable personal investment IRR of 568%. Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this interview are those of the guest and do not reflect the official policy or position of the Gotion. All information shared during this episode is not confidential, is public knowledge, and is intended solely for informational and educational purposes. Follow us: Instagram: @accelerating.returns Linkedin: Diego Calligaro X: @DiegoCalligaro

Diego Calligaro interviews Enrico Milovan, the Scaleup Acceleration Head of the incubator dedicated to helping PIF's companies launch and scale in their first year of life. The PIF is the 925 Billions dollars public investment fund of Saudi Arabia and one of the largest funds in the world. Follow us: Instagram: @accelerating.returns Linkedin: Diego Calligaro X: @DiegoCalligaro

Diego Calligaro interviews Kevin Henshaw, our first guest on the Accelerating Returns podcast. In today's episode we're going to talk about his experience in business, what it was like to scale the world's largest web3 metaverse to 300M users. How he scaled the company from start-up to over 400 employees, generating over 1 billion dollars in revenue, raising over 70 million dollars in funding and managing 4 mergers and acquisitions in the process. Follow us: Instagram LinkedIn X ICEO Follow Kevin Henshaw: LinkedIn

In this episode I will present you why we are launching Accelerating Returns and what you can expect from this.