Shows
Layer ZeroPowering the Next Wave: Infra, AI & Energy with Alumni Ventures' Drew WandzilakIn this episode, I chat with Drew Wandzilak, Co-Lead of the Strategic Tech Fund at Alumni Ventures, about the intersection of AI, infrastructure, and energy. We unpack what AI’s growing appetite means for the physical world, from grid stress to data center bottlenecks, and where real opportunity lies for startups. Get the inside scoop on how one of Alumni Ventures' investors is thinking about the future of AI infra and energy.
2025-05-3017 min
Tech Optimist: An Alumni Ventures Podcast#91 - Blue Flame Thinkers: Ernest ScheyderIn this Blue Flame Thinkers episode of the Alumni Ventures Tech Optimist Podcast, Drew Wandzilak sits down with award-winning journalist and author Ernest Scheyder to explore the high-stakes global battle for critical minerals. As the world races to secure resources like lithium and copper to power the clean energy transition, Ernest unpacks the geopolitical, environmental, and economic challenges shaping the future of energy and technology. They discuss his book, The War Below, and dive into the tough questions around supply chains, resource extraction, and the trade-offs we must navigate in the push for energy security. Join Drew and Ernest...
2025-02-0635 minTech Optimist: An Alumni Ventures Podcast#61 - Meet the Startup Reinventing AircraftIn this Meet the Startup episode of the Alumni Ventures Tech Optimist Podcast, we introduce Astro Mechanica, an aerospace startup revolutionizing air travel. Drew Wandzilak, Senior Associate at Alumni Ventures, sits down with Ian Brooke, Founder and CEO of Astro Mechanica, to explore the future of supersonic flight. Ian reveals his company’s groundbreaking turbo-electric adaptive engine that promises to make supersonic travel affordable and efficient at every speed. Listeners will gain insight into how these innovations could transform both commercial and defense aviation sectors, offering on-demand, low-cost flights that could replace traditional airliners. Tune in to discover how As...
2024-10-1050 minTech Optimist: An Alumni Ventures Podcast#60 - Meet the Start-Up Focused on Microbe-TechIn this Meet the Startup episode of the Alumni Ventures Tech Optimist Podcast, host Drew Wandzilak, Senior Associate at Alumni Ventures, introduces Cheri Ackerman, co-founder and CEO of Concerto Biosciences. Based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Concerto is transforming how we use microbes to develop innovative products for health, agriculture, and beyond. Cheri dives into their groundbreaking technology, kChip, which tests millions of microbial combinations to discover effective microbial ecosystems. She discusses their clinical trials focused on conditions like eczema and yeast infections, emphasizing Concerto’s long-term vision of leveraging microbes to create sustainable, biology-based solutions. The conversation explores how Concerto ai...
2024-10-0841 minTech Optimist: An Alumni Ventures Podcast#54 - Meet the Startup Reimagining Death for a Sustainable FutureLearn about Earth, a company offering a sustainable alternative to traditional end-of-life options, on this episode of the Tech Optimist podcast. Drew Wandzilak, an investor at Alumni Ventures, interviews Tom Harries, Co-founder and CEO of Earth, who shares how his company transforms individuals into life-sustaining soil in a natural and environmentally conscious way. This method not only honors the cycle of life by returning to the earth but also nurtures the environment, providing families a meaningful way to celebrate their loved ones. Discover how Earth blends ancient principles with modern technology to create meaningful farewells that embrace environmental consciousness.
2024-09-2330 minTech Optimist: An Alumni Ventures Podcast#28 - The Father of Modern Rocket ScienceDive into the next frontier of space innovation in this episode of the Tech Optimist, where Drew Wandzilak welcomes Tom Mueller, founder and CEO of Impulse Space and the first employee at SpaceX. In this insightful discussion, Thomas shares the journey from his early days at SpaceX to spearheading Impulse Space, a company dedicated to revolutionizing in-space transportation. They delve into how his pioneering work on propulsion technologies at SpaceX has fueled his vision for Impulse, which aims to enhance how payloads are maneuvered in orbit. Tune in for an insider’s look at the challenges and technological breakthroughs sh...
2024-07-1632 minTech Optimist: An Alumni Ventures Podcast#17 - Three Breakthroughs: Are Doctors Doomed, Space Breakthrough, and Is a Cure for Diabetes Coming?In this Three Breakthroughs episode of the Alumni Ventures Tech Optimist Podcast, Mike Collins and Drew Wandzilak dive into three pivotal innovations shaping the future. First, they explore the rise of AI doctors and their potential to revolutionize healthcare with better diagnoses, bedside manner, and access to the latest medical knowledge. Next, the pair highlights the massive implications of SpaceX's Starship, which aims to dramatically lower the cost of space travel, democratizing access to the final frontier. Lastly, they discuss groundbreaking advancements in diabetes treatment, including a potential cell-based cure that could eliminate the need for insulin. These exciting...
2024-06-2029 minTech Optimist: An Alumni Ventures Podcast#13 - Three Breakthroughs: College Sports Turn Pro, Miles Per Gallon Becomes Outdated, and Ethereum ETFsJoin Alumni Ventures' Mike Collins and Drew Wandzilak on the Tech Optimist podcast as they discuss three breakthroughs. First, they explore the new compensation model for NCAA athletes, which promises to transform collegiate sports. Next, they debate the relevance of the 'miles per gallon' standard in today's push for greater fuel efficiency. Finally, they delve into the world of finance with the emergence of Ethereum ETFs, marking a significant step towards cryptocurrency acceptance in mainstream investment. Tune in to discover how these innovations are shaping the future.To Learn More:-- Alumni Ventures (AV): www...
2024-06-1327 minTech Optimist: An Alumni Ventures Podcast#11 - Three Breakthroughs: Huge Oil Found in Antarctica, Apple and AI, Warp Drive BreakthroughIn this episode of the Tech Optimist podcast, Mike Collins and Drew Wandzilak (Senior Associate at AV) explore three pivotal technological developments. They cover the massive oil deposits discovered off the coast of Antarctica and the potential geopolitical impacts, Apple's anticipated moves in AI and privacy enhancements, and revolutionary scientific developments in warp drive technology for interstellar travel. Join them as they delve into these exciting technological breakthroughs and their potential global impacts.To Learn More:-- Alumni Ventures (AV): www.av.vc-- AV LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/alumniventures-- AV...
2024-06-0926 minTech Optimist: An Alumni Ventures Podcast#9 - Three Breakthroughs: Brain Computers, Ohalo, & Manipulating WeatherIn this episode of the Tech Optimist podcast, Mike Collins and Drew Wandzilak (Senior Associate at AV) discuss three groundbreaking advancements. They cover Neuralink's progress with FDA approval for a second patient, innovations in food breeding by the company Ohalo, and climate modification techniques involving cloud seeding. Join them as they delve into these exciting technological breakthroughs and their potential global impacts.To Learn More:-- Alumni Ventures (AV): www.av.vc-- AV LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/alumniventures-- AV Deep Tech Fund: www.av.vc/DeepTech-- Tech Optimist...
2024-06-0622 minTech Optimist: An Alumni Ventures Podcast#7 - Future You is Begging for a Financial PlanIn this episode of the Tech Optimist podcast, host Mike Collins and AV Senior Associate Drew Wandzilak discuss three significant tech breakthroughs, including advancements in drug discovery and AI. The second segment features an insightful interview with Itamar Benedy, Co-Founder & CEO of Anzu.io, where he talks about the future of in-game advertising. Finally, Steve Chen, Founder & CEO of NewRetirement, shares how his company uses AI to create comprehensive financial planning models, making retirement planning more accessible. Join us to explore these transformative technologies and hear from the innovators behind them.To Learn More:...
2024-05-281h 21Tech Optimist: An Alumni Ventures Podcast#6 - You're The Weak LinkIn this episode, AV CEO Mike Collins interviews David DellaPelle about his experience building Dune Security, which addresses a staggeringly prevalent cause of cybersecurity breaches: employee error. Next, AV Partner Pete Mathias dives into Multitude Insights with its co-founder Matthew White, who is working to revolutionize information sharing between police departments. Finally, Collins and AV Senior Associate Drew Wandzilak discuss all things space: what's interesting, what's investable, and where are we headed? To Learn More:-- Alumni Ventures (AV): www.av.vc-- AV LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/alumniventures-- AV Deep...
2024-05-211h 06Tech Optimist: An Alumni Ventures Podcast#2 - Not Your Grandpa’s Nuclear ReactorJoin Alumni Ventures (AV) Associate Drew Wandzilak in a compelling discussion on nuclear energy with Aalo Atomics Founder & CEO Matt Loszak. Then, hear from AV Co-Founder & CEO Mike Collins in a chat with AV Principal Naren Ramaswamy on the latest in VC. Finally, learn from Amogha Tadimety, Co-Founder & CEO of Nanopath, as she dives into her experience founding a molecular diagnostics company aimed at improving women’s health.To Learn More:-- Alumni Ventures (AV): www.av.vc-- AV US Strategic Tech Fund: www.av.vc/USStrategicTech-- AV Doctors Innovate Fund is...
2024-04-231h 04
The Louder VoiceJohn ColucciIn a long awaited episode, Mike Collins interviews John Colucci.This episode was initially recorded in September, 2021.
2021-12-1838 min
The Louder VoiceZach CollinsToday, listen to Zach Collins talk about his art, what he thinks is underrated, and some funny George Carlin bits.
2021-09-1741 min
The Louder VoiceJeff BassToday, Jeff Bass shares about his new life in Phoenix, his favorite sandwich, and his hair care routine.
2021-08-0745 min
The Louder VoicePam BassToday, Pam Bass shares her ideal superpower, what's next for the Bass family, and some things she learned from her mother.
2021-05-2835 min
The Louder VoiceCindy HudsonToday, Cindy Hudson shares about her experience in college, where she sees the family in the next few years, and describes each of her sisters as a different plant!
2021-05-1037 min
The Louder VoiceAvery SuterToday, Avery Suter shares what he loves about St. Louis, what plant Elena would be, and his favorite childhood memories.
2021-04-2632 min
The Louder VoiceMark WandzilakToday, Mark Wandzilak, shares what his childrens' spirit animals would be, why he would've stayed in California longer, and who he would choose to have lunch with.
2021-04-1537 min
The Louder VoiceBecky CollinsToday, Becky Collins shares her love of genealogy, hows she's dealing with aging, and what her superpowers would be.
2021-04-0826 min
The Louder VoiceElena WandzilakToday, Elena Wandzilak shares her favorites parts about St. Louis, her love of college gymnastics, and what she learned from her dad.
2021-03-2136 min
The Louder VoiceDeborah WandzilakToday, listen to Deborah Wandzilak as she shares her thoughts on the royal drama, her kid's best attributes, and what her superpower would be.
2021-03-1434 min
The Louder VoiceReese CollinsToday, listen to Reese Collins share his love of squash, movies, and 60s girl pop bands. It's a fun one!Every week, Host Mike Collins interviews members of the Lower (Louder) family. Subscribe and follow along for new episodes every week.
2021-03-0730 min
The Louder VoiceCarly BassToday, listen to Carly Bass as she shares about her life on a farm, what makes a good friend, and where she hopes to be in ten years. Every week, Host Mike Collins interviews members of the Lower (Louder) family. Subscribe and follow along for new episodes every week.
2021-03-0125 min
The Louder VoiceJanna ColucciToday, listen to Janna Colucci as she shares her life goals, whats it is like being a woman in entrepreneurship, and who is the funniest person in her family. Every week, Host Mike Collins interviews members of the Lower (Louder) family. Subscribe and follow along for new episodes every week.
2021-02-2244 min
The Louder VoiceAvery HudsonToday, listen to Avery Hudson as he shares his biggest excitement about college, what he has learned so far from his gap year, and what is daily hair routine looks like.Every week, Host Mike Collins interviews members of the Lower (Louder) family. Subscribe and follow along for new episodes every week.
2021-02-1430 min
The Louder VoiceRachel CollinsToday, listen to Rachel Collins as she shares what's going on her life, the sweet sounds of a mechanical keyboard, and what's annoying with children these days. Every week, Host Mike Collins interviews members of the Lower (Louder) family. Subscribe and follow along for new episodes every week.
2021-02-0623 min
The Louder VoiceBONUS EPISODE - GameStop w/ Mike & BarryAn exclusive, bonus episode with Barry Bass and Mike Collins as they give their thoughts on the recent meteoric rise of GameStop's stock.
2021-02-0406 min
The Louder VoiceBarry BassToday, listen to Barry Bass, CFO at Holistic Industries, as he shares his celebrity crush, future life plans, and everything in between. Stay tuned for a special bonus episode this week where Barry and Mike discuss...GAMESTOP. Every week, Host Mike Collins interviews members of the Lower (Louder) family. Subscribe and follow along for new episodes every week.
2021-02-0427 min
The Louder VoiceRiley HudsonListen to the first in-person episode of TLV with Riley Hudson as she shares her biggest worries about college, her spirit animal, and if she would choose to not wear socks ever again. Every week, Host Mike Collins interviews members of the Lower (Louder) family. Subscribe and follow along for new episodes every week.
2021-01-2516 min
The Louder VoiceAllison BassToday, listen to WashU Senior Allison Bass as she shares her plans post-graduation, what her superpower would be, and her love of meatballs. Every week, Host Mike Collins interviews members of the Lower (Louder) family. Subscribe and follow along for new episodes every week.
2021-01-1524 min
The Louder VoiceDrew WandzilakToday, listen to Northwestern Junior Drew Wandzilak talk about going to college during a pandemic, his favorite smells, and the best animated film of all time.Every week, Host Mike Collins interviews members of the Lower (Louder) family. Follow along and subscribe for new episodes every week.
2021-01-1022 min
The G-L ReviewDrew Wandzilak on the Growth Potential of the Podcast Industry and How We Can Build Better FoundersAfter a long hiatus, NGL is back with another episode of The G-L Review! He touches a little bit on the last six months, everything that’s happened and his changing mindset and approach towards entrepreneurship amid the COVID-19 crisis (0:33) and then welcomes on Drew Wandzilak, a friend who’s worked in venture capital for the last three years, to talk about the most batshit crazy startup pitch he’s ever gotten (9:46), whether or not it’s the responsibility of companies to provide a social good (12:56), why VCs get excited when investing in cool D2C companies like Allbirds (26:24), the grow...
2020-04-021h 01