Tank Talks By Ripple Ventures

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen sits down with global venture capitalist Alex Lazarow, founder of Fluent Ventures, to unpack the future of early-stage investing as AI, globalization, and shifting economic forces reshape the startup landscape. Alex brings a rare perspective shaped by 20+ markets across Africa, Latin America, Europe, and Asia, plus experience backing seven unicorns, from Chime to breakout fintechs worldwide.

Alex shares insights from his unconventional path from academia-curious economist to McKinsey consultant, impact investor at Omidyar Network, partner at global firm Cathay Innovation, and now solo GP building a research-driven, globally...

In this episode of Tank Talks, Matt Cohen is joined by Samir Kaji, CEO and Co-Founder of Allocate, to break down the explosive growth of private market investing and why trillions in new capital are about to reshape the entire wealth ecosystem. Fresh off a $30.5M Series B, Samir unpacks how Allocate is building the missing infrastructure connecting fund managers, RIAs, and the next generation of investors, solving the painful workflows, broken data pipes, and manual processes still holding the industry back. From intelligent deal discovery and auto-filled subscriptions to AI-powered diligence and portfolio personalization, Samir explains how technology...

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen sits down with Chris Canavan, founder and general manager of Canavan Private Wealth, to unpack one of the most confusing and emotionally charged chapters in a founder’s journey: life after the liquidity event.

Chris brings thirty years of global institutional and private office experience to the table, but his superpower is not managing money. It is designing and running the system around a founder’s wealth. After watching countless entrepreneurs exit their companies only to be overwhelmed by advisors, decisions, documents, and emotional pressure, Chris built a mode...

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen is joined by John Ruffolo for an in-depth discussion on the latest business innovation news, cutting-edge tech developments, and disruptive market shifts that are shaping the global innovation economy. From game-changing legal tech acquisitions to the next big wave in quantum computing, the two break down the trends transforming Canadian fintech and the rise of stablecoin regulation. They also dive deep into AI advancements, big tech strategies, and the future of payments, offering fresh insights and actionable takeaways.

Clio’s Billion-Dollar Acquisition & Vertical Expansion in Legal Tech (01:38)

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In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen is joined by John Ruffolo and special guest Mark McQueen, Founder of Wellington Growth Partners and one of Canada’s leading voices on capital markets and policy, as they dive into Canada’s 2025 Federal Budget. Together, they unpack the implications of Ottawa’s newly tabled “Building a Stronger Canada” budget, one that promises $1 trillion in investment over five years, with a heavy focus on productivity, infrastructure, defense, and innovation.

The three dissect everything from the $78B deficit and 40,000 public service cuts, to new measures for AI, fintech, and open banki...

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen sits down with Roberto Bellini, Co-Founder of BSQUARED Capital and former CEO of Bellus Health, for a powerful conversation about family, legacy, and resilience in the world of biotech.

Originally recorded just two weeks before the passing of his father, Dr. Francesco Bellini, one of the founding giants of Canadian biotech, this re-recorded episode serves as a moving tribute to the man known as “Mr. Biotech Canada.” Roberto opens up about what it was like growing up under the guidance of such a visionary figure and how that expe...

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen is joined by John Ruffolo to break down the week’s biggest stories shaping the innovation economy. From the Bank of Canada’s surprise rate cut to Meta’s $200B market crash, and the rise of Canada’s fintech and stablecoin revolution. They kick off with a spotlight on Waterloo’s AI-powered baseball tech that’s changing Major League play, before unpacking the renewed U.S.-Canada tariff tensions and what the Bank’s fourth rate cut signals for inflation, growth, and fiscal strategy ahead of the November 4th budget. The two also d...

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen sits down with Sameer Dhar, Co-Founder and CEO of NiaHealth, to explore how proactive healthcare is reshaping the future of medicine.

Sameer shares his remarkable journey from living in nursing homes for a year while building his first startup (Sensassure) to launching NiaHealth, a Canadian health-tech company empowering people to take ownership of their longevity through AI-driven diagnostics and personalized insights.

With over $8 million in funding and a 12,000-person waitlist, NiaHealth is building a clinician-first model that complements Canada’s public system, helping users prevent disease de...

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen and John Ruffolo break down the most important stories shaping Canada’s innovation economy, from the upcoming federal budget and its impact on founders and investors, to Canada’s fintech shake-up as open banking finally gains momentum.

The duo dives into AI’s growing legal minefield, including the mounting lawsuits against Perplexity and Sora, and discusses what this means for startups training models on licensed versus unlicensed data. They also unpack Cohere’s rumored IPO, Canada’s AI partnership with the UAE, and what it reveals about the country’s...

In this episode of Tank Talks, Matt Cohen is joined by James Baskin, Founder and CEO of ZeroStone AI, to explore how businesses can transition from AI experimentation to real-world impact. James, a three-time founder with multiple successful exits, shares his journey from engineering at the University of Toronto to building and selling telecom ventures alongside Globalive’s Anthony Lacavera. He offers valuable insights into leadership, resilience, and overcoming imposter syndrome.

Drawing from over 300 conversations with CEOs and AI leaders, James discusses why many companies are “AI-aware but not AI-ready.” He reveals how ZeroStone helps mid-market firms turn f...

In this episode of Tank Talks, Matt Cohen and John Ruffolo break down the latest developments in U.S.-Canada trade negotiations, particularly around tariffs and energy, with insights into how these pressures could shape future relationships.

The conversation shifts to the growing energy demands of AI, as Matt and John explore how both the U.S. and China are navigating energy needs, and whether Canada could play a more significant role. They also analyze NVIDIA’s $110 billion vendor financing strategy, drawing comparisons to the telecom bubble, and discuss the growing risks in data center financing. With th...

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen is joined by John Ruffolo to dive deep into the rapidly evolving AI landscape, its economic ramifications, and Canada’s growing potential as a global tech leader. They discuss pivotal topics, such as energy challenges in AI infrastructure, the rise of AI tokenization, and the impact of government policies on the sector. With a focus on the future of tech, investments, and the role of Canada, this episode offers an insightful look at where the industry is headed.

A Quick Word from our Sponsor, Fasken

At Fa...

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen is joined by John Ruffolo to discuss pivotal developments shaping Canada’s economy and tech industry. They cover a range of topics, from Canada’s immigration policies in light of changes to the U.S. H1-B visa program to the evolving AI landscape and its economic implications. John provides insights on how Canada could leverage these immigration shifts to attract global talent, while exploring the risks of inflated AI valuations and the potential for an AI bubble.

The conversation also delves into the rising vendor financing model in A...

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen sits down with Nejeed Kassam, a serial founder, investor, and advocate for positive change. With a journey that spans from launching his first business as a teenager to scaling and selling Keela, a CRM for nonprofits, Nejeed’s experience offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs, especially those navigating the challenges of building tech-driven impact companies.

Nejeed shares his entrepreneurial beginnings, the lessons he learned growing Keela, and the challenges he faced when taking on external funding. He also discusses his new venture, Rewire Digital Therapeutics, an AI-powered mental health co...

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen is joined by Christian Weedbrook, Founder and CEO of Xanadu, a groundbreaking Canadian company leading the charge in photonic quantum computing. With over $250 million raised, Xanadu is on track to revolutionize industries through its cutting-edge quantum technologies.

Christian discusses his transition from academia to entrepreneurship, the challenges of building a quantum company, and the potential for quantum computing to reshape industries like AI, drug discovery, and materials science. He shares his insights on Canada’s role in the future of quantum tech, how quantum’s “ChatGPT moment” will likely c...

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen is joined by John Ruffolo to dive into a wide range of topics affecting Canada’s economy, from energy and tech to blockchain. They discuss the government’s announcement of major projects like LNG Canada’s expansion and the critical need for nuclear energy. The conversation also touches on Canada's role in the global energy market, especially with the growing importance of renewables and the challenges of balancing carbon-based energy.

The episode shifts to AI and blockchain, exploring how Canada can stay competitive in the tech race. They also d...

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen sits down with Nikunj Kothari, Partner at FPV Ventures, to explore his journey from product leader at LinkedIn, Opendoor, and Meter to early-stage investor. Nikunj shares candid insights on why the best companies thrive under benevolent dictatorships, how AI is reshaping SaaS pricing models, and what makes founders truly exceptional.

From his early years growing up in India to becoming one of the most thoughtful voices in venture, Nikunj opens up about his decision to leave operating roles, his angel investing beginnings, and his transition to VC at...

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen is joined by serial entrepreneur and investor Michael Hyatt and prominent Canadian venture capitalist, entrepreneur, and business leader John Ruffolo as they dive into some of the most pressing issues facing Canada and the world today. The conversation begins with a look at the upcoming federal budget, where Michael shares his perspective on the tough choices ahead for Canada's economy, including the potential for significant budget cuts and the challenges of balancing austerity with essential investments.

The discussion quickly shifts to the rapidly growing field of artificial intelligence...

In this episode of Tank Talks, Matt Cohen sits down with Samer Bishay, a telecom trailblazer and the founder of Iristel, to discuss his journey in revolutionizing Canada's telecommunications industry. From growing a small startup focused on VoIP services into one of Canada's largest independent telecom providers to pioneering decentralized satellite-based solutions, Samer has made a lasting impact in the tech world.

Samer shares his experiences of breaking into the telecom market, competing with industry giants like Bell and Rogers, and building solutions for underserved communities. He also delves into the challenges of navigating regulatory hurdles and...

In this episode of Tank Talks, Matt Cohen sits down with Peter Walker, Head of Insights at Carta, to explore the current state of the venture capital ecosystem and emerging startup trends. Peter shares his expertise on the challenges of navigating today's venture market, including how data-driven insights are shaping decision-making for both founders and investors.

With his wealth of experience at Carta, Peter discusses the rise of down rounds, the impact of AI on valuations, and the complexities of stacking safes in early-stage fundraising. He also delves into the unique dynamics of later-stage companies, from unicorns...

Welcome back to another jam-packed episode of Tank Talks! Host Matt Cohen is joined by John Ruffolo to break down the biggest headlines shaping Canada’s business, tech, and financial future. From the $12.3B privatization of Dayforce, to the Canadian government’s long-overdue embrace of AI startups, and the urgent debate over stablecoins and financial sovereignty, this episode dives deep into the forces reshaping Canada’s economy.

Whether you’re a founder, investor, or policy watcher, you don’t want to miss this candid conversation on where Canada is winning and where we risk falling dangerously behind.

Dayfo...

In this episode of Tank Talks, we sit down with Brett Gibson, Managing Partner at Initialized Capital, to explore how the world of venture capital is being reshaped by advancements in AI, crypto, and space technology.

Brett’s career has been anything but conventional. From co-founding Posterous with Garry Tan (which was later acquired by Twitter) to rebuilding the platform as Posthaven, and reengineering Y Combinator’s internal software systems, he’s seen it all. Today, as Managing Partner at Initialized Capital, Brett is spearheading investments in emerging sectors like AI infrastructure, crypto technologies, and even asteroid mining...

In this episode of Tank Talks, we dive deep into how AI is reshaping the world of investment banking and financial workflows. We’re joined by Kunal Tangri and Noah Faro, co-founders of Farsight AI, a trailblazing FinTech startup out of New York that’s automating everything from pitch decks to financial models, all within the tools bankers already use, like Excel and PowerPoint.

Farsight’s mission is to help finance professionals cut down on tedious, manual work and focus on higher-level strategy, and the results are already impressive. In just one year, the company grew 10x in rev...

In this episode of Tank Talks, we’re joined by Michelle Zatlyn, Co-founder, Co-chair, and President of Cloudflare, a company protecting and powering a major part of global internet traffic. Cloudflare helps businesses stay online, load faster, and block threats before they reach the door.

Michelle explains how growing up in Saskatchewan shaped her views on leadership and teamwork, and how that experience still guides her as Cloudflare scales. She shares how a hallway conversation at Harvard became the starting point for the business, how they raised their first round of funding without a product, and why th...

Welcome back to another exciting episode of Tank Talks! Host Matt Cohen is joined by John Ruffolo as they dive deep into some of the most fascinating business and tech news, covering everything from the Bank of Canada’s interest rates to Figma’s IPO debut and the rising debate over AI web crawling. Get ready for another whirlwind discussion on the challenges and opportunities at the intersection of technology, finance, and policy!

Bank of Canada Holds Rates Amid Tariff Resilience (00:31)

The episode kicks off with a look at the Bank of Canada’s decision to hol...

In this episode of Tank Talks, we’re joined by Gaurav Jain, co-founder of Afore Capital, one of the earliest and most respected players in the pre-seed investing space. Gaurav shares how growing up in a small town in India, moving to Canada, and working at Blackberry, Amazon, and Google helped him understand the value of momentum, iteration, and building products that truly matter.

He walks us through how a random dinner at Harvard led to meeting his future co-founder, how they built Afore around the belief that the best founders are often overlooked too early, and wh...

Welcome back to Tank Talks! In this episode, host Matt Cohen and John Ruffolo dive deep into the latest developments at the intersection of AI, tech, finance, and Canadian sovereignty. From Canada's battle over data center sovereignty to the rapid rise of secondary funds in venture capital, Matt and John cover it all in a fast-paced, thought-provoking conversation.

Canada’s Looming Data Sovereignty Crisis (00:30)

Matt and John kick things off with a critical discussion on Canada's data sovereignty issues. With foreign powers potentially controlling key Canadian data centers, they explore the risks and the urgent ne...

Welcome back to another action-packed episode of Tank Talks! Join host Matt Cohen with John Ruffalo as they break down the high-stakes drama shaking the AI and tech world. First up: the shocking collapse of OpenAI’s $3 billion deal to acquire Windsurf, derailed by Microsoft’s IP grip, and Google DeepMind’s lightning-fast $2.4 billion countermove to snag top talent. Was this a regulatory dodge or a ruthless talent grab?

The plot thickens as Cognition swoops in to rescue Windsurf’s abandoned employees, sparking fiery debates about ethics in tech acquisitions. Meanwhile, Meta’s throwing half-billion-dollar offers and unlimited...

Canada's outdated capital gains policies are driving entrepreneurs and investors away. We need competitive tax reform to keep talent and investment here, building the businesses of tomorrow.

We have just 33 small businesses per 1,000 people vs 124 in the US. Fixing our capital gains system could help us close this gap with the US and create hundreds of thousands of new jobs.

Modern capital gains reform will unleash Canadian innovation, create more high-paying employment, and ensure our world-class graduates build their companies here, not elsewhere.

Goals

To ensure a prosperous, sustainable, and growing...

In this episode of Tank Talks, we’re joined by Sam Pillar and Forrest Zeisler, co-founders of Jobber, a platform that’s changing the way small service businesses operate. Jobber brings everything, quoting, scheduling, invoicing, and payments, into one simple, powerful system, making it easier for service professionals to run and grow their businesses.

Sam and Forrest share how what began as late-night coding sessions and casual coffee shop chats evolved into a company helping thousands of tradespeople work more efficiently and take back control of their time. They talk about the early lessons learned, the importance of s...

Welcome back to another thought-provoking episode of Tank Talks! In this episode, Matt Cohen and John Ruffolo cut through the noise to unpack the latest economic headlines and policy shifts reshaping North America’s business landscape. From Canada’s surprise repeal of the Digital Services Tax to Brookfield’s launch of an evergreen private equity fund, this episode dives deep into the forces driving change in trade, finance, and innovation.

Will Canada’s late-stage policy reversal strengthen its position in U.S. trade talks? Are evergreen funds the next big wave in private equity? And how will digital...

In this episode of Tank Talks, we explore the future of solo entrepreneurship powered by AI with the co-founders of Audos, Henrik Werdelin and Nicholas Thorne. Audos is pioneering a platform that helps founders start and scale one-person businesses by providing AI co-founders that guide entrepreneurs through the entire startup journey from idea validation to product development, marketing, and growth.

Henrik and Nicholas share how their experience building companies like BarkBox and their startup studio Prehype, inspired the vision for Audos. They break down why the next wave of innovation may come not from massive teams, but...

In this episode of Tank Talks, Matt Cohen speaks with Ryan Manucha, research fellow at the C.D. Howe Institute and author of Booze, Cigarettes, and Constitutional Dust-Ups, about a critical issue that remains largely invisible yet impacts every business operating in Canada: interprovincial trade barriers.

Despite being a G7 economy, Canada continues to operate like a collection of fragmented markets, with conflicting provincial regulations creating friction across supply chains, licensing, and commerce. From inconsistent building codes to restrictions on transporting wine, the regulatory inefficiencies between provinces quietly stifle economic growth, suppress competition, and make it harder...

Welcome back to another electrifying episode of Tank Talks! Matt Cohen is joined once again by John Ruffolo to unpack the latest economic and technological headlines. From Canada’s growing role in global AI and energy discussions to the latest shifts in public-private partnerships, this episode is packed with high-stakes insights and forward-thinking analysis.

Is Canada ready to lead the charge in AI and quantum technology? Can the nation address its looming energy challenges and secure a sustainable economic future? Tune in for an exploration of these questions and more!

G7 Summit & Canada's Global Position: A...

In this episode of Tank Talks, Matt Cohen chats with Ryan Gariepy, CTO and Co-Founder of Clearpath Robotics, on how a garage project from four Waterloo grads turned into one of Canada’s biggest deep tech exits. Ryan takes us behind the scenes of Clearpath’s $600M acquisition by Rockwell Automation and the company’s journey from building robots for researchers to dominating the autonomous mobile robot (AMR) space.

The conversation covers building during a hardware-unfriendly time, the harsh realities of supply chains, the open-source bet that changed robotics, and what it really feels like to pitch in a r...

In this episode of Tank Talks, we delve into the grassroots movement that's turning heads across Canada’s innovation ecosystem: Toronto Tech Week. Joining us are two of the powerhouse organizers behind the festival: Julia Baird of Golden Ventures and Taha Hossain of Daybreak Studio. With Collision saying goodbye to Toronto, Julia and Taha stepped up to fill the void, co-creating a decentralized, nonprofit, and radically inclusive tech festival that’s rallying an entire city.

From organizing 200+ events across 24 neighbourhoods to collaborating with giants like Shopify and Google Cloud, Julia and Taha break down how Toronto Tech Week...

Welcome back to another episode of Tank Talks! This week, Matt Cohen and John Ruffolo dive deep into the economic and innovation headlines shaping Canada's future, from the shocking collapse in domestic VC funding to Bell’s billion-dollar bet on AI infrastructure, and Mark Carney’s latest power move that might just redefine Canadian politics.

* Is Canada's startup ecosystem on life support?

* What Bell's AI supercluster plan means for data sovereignty and why it might be too small, too late.

* Mark Carney's political chess game: A shift to the economic right?

* Jim...

In this episode of Tank Talks, Matt Cohen speaks with Terry Doyle, Managing Partner at Telus Global Ventures, about the evolving role of corporate venture capital (CVC) in business strategy. Terry discusses his path from Nokia and Microsoft to leading one of Canada’s top CVC arms. With 30+ deals in 2023 and a dual “investor + customer” model, Telus is redefining how corporates fuel innovation. The conversation covers AI in emerging verticals, enterprise partnerships, and Canada's place in global tech. Founders, investors, and policy leaders alike will find actionable insights and strategic guidance throughout this episode.

Terry’s Unconventional Career P...

On this episode of Tank Talks, we sit down with Dean Brauer, co-founder of GoHenry, to explore how his revolutionary fintech startup is teaching kids financial literacy in a digital-first world. Dean takes us through his journey from South Africa to Toronto, then London, and back to Canada, highlighting how living abroad shaped his entrepreneurial mindset.

Dean shares how GoHenry was born out of frustration with kids racking up charges on their parents’ credit cards and how he saw the opportunity to build a fintech product that combines financial education with practical money management. GoHenry’s unique appr...

Welcome back to Tank Talks! In this episode, host Matt Cohen sits down with John Ruffolo to dissect the latest turbulence in venture capital, political uncertainty, and Canada's looming economic challenges. From shrinking VC deals to a controversial budget delay, this conversation cuts through the noise to reveal what's really happening beneath the headlines.

* The steepest drop in Canadian VC deal count since 2020

* Seed rounds oversubscribed by U.S. funds, while Series A bars skyrocket

* Growth equity freezes as Canadian LPs hunker down

* The “denominator effect” myth dies in a two-week mark...

Welcome back to another episode of Tank Talks! Host Matt Cohen is joined once again by John Ruffolo to dissect the major headlines shaping the tech and political landscapes. From Google’s surprising search decline to Alberta's political maneuvers and OpenAI's evolving partnership with Microsoft, this episode delivers in-depth analysis and thought-provoking insights.

Alberta’s Exit Threat: Political Reality or Empty Rhetoric? (00:04:20)

* In a passionate speech, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith called for significant changes, including scrapping Bill C-69 and easing pipeline restrictions. While her stance highlights Alberta’s grievances over federal policies, talk of a potent...

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen sits down with Mayuran Yogarajah, the visionary behind Index Exchange, one of Canada's most successful ad tech companies. From the early days of Casale Media to growing Index Exchange into a global powerhouse, Mayuran shares the remarkable journey of scaling a bootstrapped business in an industry dominated by tech giants. We also dive deep into his expansion into venture capital with IX Labs and the latest innovations in ad tech.

The Genesis of Index Exchange (00:02:10)

* How Mayuran’s journey at Index Exchange started and the pivotal mo...

Welcome back to another power-packed episode of Tank Talks! Matt Cohen is once again joined by John Ruffolo to break down one of the most divisive and impactful elections in Canadian history. From Alberta’s fury and NDP’s collapse to the growing political alignment on tech policy, this episode peels back the layers on what just happened and what’s coming next.

* The shocking downfall of Jagmeet Singh and the NDP

* Mark Carney’s debut win and what it means for national unity

* Alberta’s boiling anger and the risk of Western alienation...

Welcome back to Tank Talks! Host Matt Cohen is back with the one and only John Ruffolo in another no-holds-barred news rundown from the frontlines of business, tech, and politics. With Canada barreling toward an election that could reshape its economic future, and global giants like Google facing legal evisceration, this episode is packed with jaw-dropping insights.

* Why the Canadian election might deliver another political deadlock and why that terrifies investors.

* The secret behind Google’s looming breakup and OpenAI’s wild move to snag Chrome.

* Inside the AI shell game: How Ottawa’s $2B...

Welcome back to Tank Talks! In this episode, host Matt Cohen is joined by John Ruffolo for another high-voltage rundown of the most urgent headlines at the intersection of business, politics, and innovation. As Canada stares down the barrel of a snap federal election and the U.S. economy teeters on a razor’s edge, this episode is all about decoding the chaos.

* Can Canada avoid a recession as political gridlock looms?

* Will U.S. economic volatility derail global investment?

* What happens when tech titans like Musk and Dorsey call for the end of...

Welcome back to another hard-hitting news roundup on Tank Talks! Host Matt Cohen is joined once again by John Ruffolo to unpack the economic tremors shaking North America. From Trump’s tariff war and its looming consequences for Canada, to Toby Lutke’s bold AI ultimatum at Shopify, this episode is a masterclass in high-stakes business, politics, and innovation.

* Will Trump’s economic war trigger a global market meltdown?

* Why John Ruffolo says stagflation is now a real and terrifying threat for the U.S.

* Canada’s recession warning: Why this election may determin...

In this episode of Tank Talks, we dive into one of the most significant shifts happening in tech right now: the rise of AI agents.

Our guest, Adam Coccari, has a front-row seat to the AI transformation as the Managing Director of HubSpot Ventures. But what makes Adam’s story so compelling is how it began, not in boardrooms, but in a classroom, teaching 4th-grade math. From building an educational gaming app with no tech background to helping launch Microsoft’s venture fund, Adam’s journey is anything but typical.

We explore why agentic AI is res...

In this episode of Tank Talks, we sit down with Dan Debow, serial entrepreneur and former Shopify executive, along with returning guest and venture powerhouse John Ruffolo, for an unfiltered conversation about the intersection of innovation, public policy, and Canada's economic future.

Fresh off his launch of Build Canada, Dan opens up about the real reasons he left Shopify, why Canadian entrepreneurs are stepping into the policy arena, and what it’s really going to take to grow GDP and national prosperity in a fast-changing world. Along the way, he reflects on his journey building Workbrain, Rypple, an...

On this episode of Tank Talks, we welcome back Villi Iltchev, founder and managing partner of Category Ventures, for an unfiltered deep dive into the evolving venture capital landscape. From his early days at Salesforce Ventures to launching his solo $160M fund, Villi unpacks the seismic shifts happening in enterprise software, how AI is reshaping startup economics, and what today’s founders need most from their investors.

We get tactical about startup pricing models, founder-investor trust, and what it takes to build truly category-defining companies. Villi also shares what he learned from backing GitLab, why transparency builds lo...

On this episode of Tank Talks, Matt Cohen sits down with Michael Garrity, Executive Chair and Founder of Financeit, alongside recurring guest, John Ruffolo. Michael shares his unconventional journey—from growing up in remote Canada to navigating the world of venture capital, fintech, and regulatory battles. He reveals how he pivoted CommunityLend after facing regulatory roadblocks, ultimately transforming it into Financeit, which became Canada’s largest point-of-sale lender for home improvement.

We also dive into:

* The hard lessons of scaling a fintech company

* How Goldman Sachs’ investment changed Financeit's trajectory (and the tough call t...

Welcome back to another thought-provoking episode of Tank Talks! Matt Cohen sits down with John Ruffolo to dissect the most pressing developments in tech, finance, and AI. From major banking shifts to the evolving landscape of AI-driven SEO, this episode delivers sharp insights and expert analysis you won’t want to miss.

* The Bank of Canada’s latest interest rate cut—will it actually help the economy?

* The power shift in Canadian banking: What CIBC’s CEO transition means for the future.

* Open banking and AI’s role in reshaping the financial landscape.

* The...

On this episode of Tank Talks, Matt Cohen sits down with Daniel Saks, co-founder of AppDirect and now CEO & co-founder of Landbase, to explore the explosive rise of AI-powered go-to-market strategies. Fresh off a $12.5M seed round, Daniel reveals how Agentic AI is transforming B2B sales and marketing, the key lessons he learned from scaling AppDirect, and what it really takes to build a category-defining company.

* What does it take to build a billion-dollar SaaS company?

* How is AI reshaping the future of sales and marketing?

* Why do some entrepreneurs thrive while...

Matt Cohen and John Ruffolo break down the seismic shift in Canadian politics as Mark Carney takes over as Prime Minister, succeeding Justin Trudeau. We explore what this means for Canada’s economy, upcoming elections, and how business leaders are reacting to the change.

* What’s next for Carney and the Liberal Party?

* Could Canada be heading for an April election?

* How will Canada’s economic policies evolve under Carney’s leadership?

Mark Carney Takes Over as Canada’s 24th Prime Minister (00:01:00)

In a widely expected m...

Matt Cohen and John Ruffolo dive into the growing exodus of Canadian talent to the U.S., breaking down why top founders and engineers are choosing Silicon Valley over homegrown opportunities. They discuss OpenAI’s latest move to charge up to $20,000 per month for AI-powered research agents and how companies are rethinking hiring in light of these powerful tools. The conversation also covers the controversial CoreWeave IPO, highlighting its rapid $1.9B revenue surge, heavy reliance on Microsoft, and whether it signals a coming shake-up in cloud computing. On the political front, they analyze the potential for an ea...

Matt Cohen sits down with Robert Morier, a former global investment executive turned venture capital professor at Drexel University. Robert shares his non-traditional journey—from studying history to managing multi-billion dollar investment portfolios, and ultimately returning to education to mentor the next generation of startup founders and VCs. They discuss his experience teaching venture capital, how risk management in lifeguarding relates to investing, how podcasting helps drive awareness, and why universities need more real-world startup training.

About Robert Morier:

Robert Morier is a professor at Drexel University, specializing in venture capital, early-stage finance, and private ma...

Matt Cohen and John Ruffolo talk about the BDC Capital $1B fund, the state of early-stage VC funding in Canada, and the rise of mega-deals dominated by U.S. investors. They also discuss the feasibility of the Quebec City-Toronto high-speed rail project, AI copyright lawsuits, potential Trump-era tariffs, and the future of open banking in Canada.

Key Topics

BDC Capital’s $1B Growth-Stage Investment Fund (00:42)

* BDC Capital announces a $1B investment fund, with:

* $500M Growth Venture Fund for direct investments and co-investments.

* $450M Growth Equity Partners Program for minority st...

Matt Cohen sits down with Amber Kanwar, a longtime financial journalist and former BNN Bloomberg anchor, who recently made the bold leap into independent media with her new podcast, In the Money. Amber shares her journey from an ambitious intern at BNN to becoming one of Canada’s most recognizable financial voices.

She recounts how she overcame imposter syndrome in the high-stakes world of financial journalism, the real lessons she learned from industry giants, and the importance of clear communication in a jargon-filled industry. Amber also reveals the investigative journalism story that put her on the map—a sh...

In this episode, Matt welcomes Willson Cross, the co-founder and CEO of Borderless AI, to discuss how AI is transforming the global HR and payroll industry. Willson shares his entrepreneurial journey, from founding and selling GoFetch to launching Borderless AI. They explore how AI-driven compliance, payroll, and onboarding are solving key challenges in hiring global teams. Willson also talks about the company’s $35M funding, its partnership with Cohere, and how they differentiate from major competitors like Deel and Rippling.

About Willson Cross:

Willson Cross is the Co-Founder and CEO of Borderless AI, a global pa...

This episode analyzes the latest trade tensions between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, exploring Trump’s recent tariff decisions and their economic impact. Matt Cohen and John Ruffolo discuss Canada's political inaction, the rise of the Build Canada initiative, and the massive AI infrastructure investments by tech giants. They also break down StackAdapt’s explosive growth and its implications for the Canadian startup ecosystem.

Topics

(00:42) Trump’s Trade War: Winners & Losers(06:00) Canada’s Delayed Government Response(09:30) The Launch of Build Canada(14:00) Shifts in Liberal Party Leadership(17:00) StackAdapt’s Rise & $235M Investment(20:00) AI’s CapEx Boom – Smart...

Matt Cohen welcomes Niklas Halusa, Co-Founder and CEO of Nautical Commerce, to explain how his company makes starting and running marketplaces easier. Niklas shares lessons from his venture capital experience, how to choose the right customers, and why marketplaces succeed or fail. He also talks about fundraising, managing growth, and what startup founders can learn from Formula 1 racing.

About Niklas Halusa:

Niklas Halusa is the Co-Founder and CEO of Nautical Commerce, where he has led the company since September 2023 after serving as its President for over three years. At Nautical, he focuses on simplifying marketplace...

In this episode, Matt Cohen chats with Wendy Li, the co-founder and Chief Investment Officer of Ivy Invest, about her journey from managing institutional endowments to founding a fintech startup. Wendy shares insights from her experiences at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the UJA Federation of New York, and the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation.

She highlights her decision to leave a traditional allocator role to build Ivy Invest, a platform democratizing access to institutional-quality investments for retail investors. Wendy discusses the challenges of being a first-time founder, how emerging managers can build trust with institutional investors, and...

This episode analyzes the latest developments in U.S. policy and how they intersect with business, innovation, and Canadian economic strategies. Matt Cohen and John Ruffolo discuss Trump’s second-term inauguration, Canada’s potential responses, and the growing trend of venture capital firms adopting private equity-style roll-up strategies.

Topics

(00:42) Trump’s Second-Term Inauguration

(02:40) Key US Policy Announcements

(05:00) Canada’s Preparedness vs. Reaction in Policy

(09:03) Alberta’s Independent Strategy

(13:11) Shifts in Liberal Party Leadership

(16:31) Venture Capital Adopts Roll-Up Strategies

(21:15) Challenges for Venture Roll-Ups

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In this episode of Tank Talks, Matt Cohen welcomes back Rob Khazzam, CEO of Float, along with John Ruffolo, to discuss Float's recent $70M Series B funding led by Goldman Sachs, the challenges of building a fintech company in Canada, and the broader state of entrepreneurship in the country.

Rob shares insights into Float's mission to simplify financial operations for Canadian businesses, emphasizing innovation in a heavily regulated industry. He reflects on the lessons learned from previous funding rounds and how Float adapted to market shifts. The conversation expands to challenges in Canadian policy, the need for...

Host Matt Cohen talks with Dave Lambert, founder and managing director of Right Side Capital Management. Founded in 2009, Right Side takes a quantitative, data-driven approach to early-stage investments, focusing on capital-efficient tech startups. It has funded over 2,000 companies, offering rapid investment decisions and fostering innovation in the fragmented seed-stage funding market.

Dave explains how Right Side invests in very early-stage startups using data instead of gut feelings. He also discusses how technology, like AI, is changing startups and shares stories from his career.

About Dave Lambert:

Dave Lambert is the Founder and Managing...

Matt Cohen and John Ruffolo discuss the fast-moving events shaping Canada's political and economic landscape. Topics include the fallout from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's resignation, the complexities of the CRA's proposed capital gains tax adjustments, and the legal challenges tied to Parliament's prorogation. The conversation then pivots to groundbreaking developments in AI, spotlighting RBC's partnership with Cohere to build a generative AI platform. The episode wraps with a critical analysis of the sudden closure of Vancouver-based Bench Accounting and its surprising acquisition.

Topics:

* (00:45) CRA’s enforcement of capital gains tax changes and taxpayer strategies

...

Matt Cohen and John Ruffolo talk about the big news that Justin Trudeau is stepping down after being Canada’s Prime Minister for nine years. They explore what this means for Canada, including how it affects the government, the economy, and Canada’s relationship with the United States.

Topics covered include:

* (01:28) What Trudeau’s resignation means for the Liberal Party and Canada’s government.

* (03:17) Why the Liberal Party’s leadership race could create even more problems.

* (04:00) How Canada’s political issues might hurt its relationship with the U.S.

* (07:22) Questions ab...

Matt Cohen wraps up an extraordinary year in tech, venture capital, and innovation with this special "Best of 2024" episode of Tank Talks. Featuring insights from some remarkable guests, this episode explores the year’s defining moments and actionable lessons.

Baron Davis dives into the transformative potential of AI, VR/AR, and digital assets, while Dax Da Silva of Lightspeed shares how energy and spirituality fuel leadership. Nicolas Mulroney reveals the grit it took to pitch 80 investors to launch his bakery venture, and Winter Mead explains how Coolwater Capital is building the next generation of venture fund managers.

Matt Cohen and John Ruffolo tackle the seismic shifts in Canada’s political landscape, discuss the recent fall economic statement, and make bold predictions for 2025.

Topics covered include Chrystia Freeland’s unexpected resignation as Finance Minister (00:41), highlights from the Federal Budget (03:39), speculation about Canada's election timing (09:18), and how this government looks to the incoming US administration. The discussion also covers the growing "100 Million Dollar Club" in Canadian tech and debates the IPO prospects for leading startups (12:00). And John and Matt give rapid-fire predictions for 2025 (18:00).

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In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen and John Ruffolo discuss the latest developments in venture capital, technology, and innovation. Topics include the Canadian government’s proposal to encourage pension fund investments in startups, the challenges entrepreneurs face in scaling businesses, and the systemic capital constraints within Canada’s ecosystem.

The conversation highlights Sheertex founder Katherine Homuth’s journey and the broader difficulties of pursuing ambitious ventures in Canada. They also cover Raptor Maps’ use of AI for solar farm efficiency, the resurgence of quantum computing with D-Wave’s latest funding, and the emergence of layered SP...

Matt Cohen sits down with Rebecca Kacaba, Co-Founder and CEO of DealMaker, a groundbreaking platform transforming how companies raise capital. Rebecca shares her journey from her entrepreneurial family background and legal expertise to spearhead innovation in the fundraising space.

The conversation covers how DealMaker democratizes capital access, enabling individuals to invest in brands they love. The discussion also touches on the impact of regulations like the JOBS Act, the role of community and marketing in successful capital campaigns, and the future of AI in streamlining complex fundraising processes.

Rebecca also opens up about her experiences...

Matt Cohen and John Ruffolo discuss John’s OpEd on building a prosperity agenda for Canada, becoming a better ally to the US, the announcement of the Sovereign AI fund, and key developments in venture capital, including ServiceTitan’s IPO challenges and the implications of recent lawsuits against OpenAI.

(01:13) Canada’s Prosperity Agenda and Economic Priorities

John Ruffolo delves into his op-ed advocating for federal government spending reforms, tax system simplification, and fostering innovation to secure Canada’s future prosperity.

* Key Points:

* Canada must address federal debt, currently projected at $1.4 trillion.

* S...

Matt Cohen welcomes Mitch Debora, the Co-Founder and CEO of Mosaic Manufacturing, a pioneer in the field of additive manufacturing and 3D printing. Mitch shares insights into how Mosaic is transforming global supply chains with innovative 3D printing solutions, particularly in the wake of COVID-19, which exposed the fragility of traditional supply chains.

The discussion dives into Mosaic’s latest innovation, the Array system, which enables continuous automated production at scale. Mitch outlines the environmental and economic advantages of additive manufacturing, its applications in diverse industries such as medical devices, textiles, and consumer goods, and Mosaic's vision fo...

Matt Cohen and John Ruffolo discuss Neo Financial’s $80M funding and the concerns surrounding Tencent’s involvement, Hopper’s layoffs as it pivots to B2B partnerships, and Elon Musk’s dual moves with his Department of Government Efficiency and X.AI’s stock offering. They also explore the implications of ServiceTitan’s IPO ratchet clause and Wealthsimple’s $100M secondary share purchase ahead of a potential IPO.

(01:13) Neo Financial’s Tencent Controversy

Neo Financial’s $80M equity financing revealed Tencent Holdings as a lead investor, sparking concerns about Chinese involvement in Canadian financial services.

...

Matt Cohen interviews Jayesh Parmar, founder of Picatic, a ticketing platform acquired by Eventbrite, and current wellness innovator with Gunkii. Jayesh discusses building a startup in Saskatoon, navigating challenges, competing against incumbents, and lessons learned from scaling a company. He also shares insights into his current venture, Gunkii, and his contributions to the startup ecosystem.

About Jayesh Parmar:

Jayesh Parmar is the Co-CEO and founder of Gunkii, a wellness brand launched in 2021 that focuses on luxury tongue scrapers. He is responsible for leading product innovation and strategic growth in the oral health space.

...

Matt Cohen welcomes back John Ruffolo, of Maverix Private Equity, for a discussion on Neo Financial’s recent funding round, the state of IPOs, antitrust actions against Google, the dominance of NVIDIA in AI hardware, and the speculative nature of MicroStrategy's Bitcoin strategy.

* (00:55) Neo Financial's $362 Million Series D RoundAnalysis of the Calgary-based challenger bank's latest financing round, including a significant valuation drop since 2022 and insights into structured equity and debt financing.

* (03:20) Fintech Valuation ResetsJohn reflects on the aggressive valuations during 2019-2021 and applauds founders navigating down rounds responsibly.

* (06:22) Klarna and IPO TrendsDiscussion of Kl...

Matt Cohen and John Rikhtegar of RBCx discuss the insights from Rikhtegar's report on capital exited in Canadian venture capital over the past decade. They talk about the importance of understanding capital efficiency, market cycles, and the power law in venture exits.

John emphasizes the need for a comprehensive view of the venture ecosystem, focusing on capital allocated, invested, and exited. The discussion also the current state and future of Canadian venture capital, emphasizing the importance of capital efficiency, the challenges of growth at all costs, and the evolving landscape of funding. They analyze data on exit...

In this episode, Matt Cohen interviews Bill Macaitis of SaaS CMO Pro. Bill was instrumental in scaling B2B SaaS giants like Salesforce, Zendesk, and Slack. The conversation covers Bill’s transition from B2C to B2B, bringing consumer marketing techniques into enterprise SaaS, and his role in IPO successes for companies like Zendesk and Slack. Bill also delves into building high-performing, customer-centric marketing teams, strategies for effective inbound and outbound marketing, and the importance of brand differentiation, even in the traditionally risk-averse B2B space. They also explore the evolving role of AI in marketing and the sh...

Peter van der Velden joins Matt Cohen to discuss the dynamic changes within the life sciences sector and venture capital at large. He highlights the success factors in life sciences as a high-performing asset class and discusses the role of Canadian pension funds in supporting innovation. The episode also covers the transformative potential of GLP-1 drugs and AI's impact on drug discovery and medical technology.

And John Ruffolo is back to talk about the US elections and tech news. (Note: this was recorded before the election on 11/5/24).

About Peter van der Velden:

Peter...

Matt Cohen welcomes Alex Alben, Co-Founder of Theo AI, to discuss his journey through media, law, tech policy, and AI, sharing insights into Theo AI’s mission to predict legal case outcomes, the impact of AI on law, and the ethical challenges AI poses. Alben reflects on balancing innovation with regulation and emphasizes the importance of listening and understanding.

About Alex Alben:

Alex Alben is Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Theo AI, where he uses AI-driven analytics to assess legal case outcomes. With 20+ years in law, media, and technology, he also teaches Internet Law, Cybersecurity, and Pr...

In this episode, David Skok, founder and CEO of The Logic, discusses his journey from traditional journalism to leading a digital-first news outlet. He reflects on his time at The Boston Globe, where he helped the publication transition to a digital subscription model. This experience laid the foundation for his decision to launch The Logic, focusing on Canada's innovation economy and providing high-quality, in-depth reporting.

David explains how Clayton Christensen’s theory of disruptive innovation influenced his approach to digital media. He saw an opportunity to address gaps in Canadian tech and business coverage, and launched The Lo...

Matt Cohen sits down with Benedikt Langer, the thought leader behind the newsletter Embracing Emergence, to explore the world of emerging managers and their relationships with family offices and other Limited Partners (Limited Partners). Benedikt shares his journey of growing up in Germany to becoming an influential voice in the LP and Emerging Manager space, providing insights on why family offices and LPs should give more attention to emerging managers.

About Benedikt Langer:

Benedikt Langer is currently the Founder of Embracing Emergence, a platform dedicated to fostering collaboration and understanding between Limited Partners (LPs) and...

In this live episode recorded at the Elevate Conference, host Matt Cohen interviews Dax Dasilva, founder of Lightspeed and the conservation initiative Age of Union. The discussion covers Dax's entrepreneurial journey from his early days growing up in Vancouver as the son of Ugandan refugees, through the founding and growth of Lightspeed, and his venture into conservation and environmental advocacy. Dax shares insights on transitioning from a bootstrapped company to VC-backed growth, going public, his time away from the company, and his recent return as CEO. He also emphasizes the importance of spirituality, conservation, and embracing change as a...

Matt Cohen and John Ruffolo of Maverix Private Equity talk about the current dynamics of the Canadian venture capital ecosystem, discussing recent controversies and major moves by key players.

Topics include public criticism within the Canadian Venture Capital Association (CVCA), Brookfield’s ambitious plans for a $50 billion pension fund, and a strategic review by Lightspeed Commerce, hinting at privatization.

The discussion also covers global developments in AI, such as California's vetoed AI safety bill and OpenAI's massive new fundraising round, and closes with reflections on the growing influence of self-driving technologies and regulatory challenges, with in...

In this week's episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen welcomes Peter Goldie and Deborah Kattler Kupetz the two principals of Category Design Co.

Category Design is a powerful business strategy that involves identifying a gap in the market and creating an entirely new category to fill it. Together, they share their journeys, personal experiences, and insights into how category design can transform companies and shape industries.

Peter and Deborah talk about how they first met through TED conferences and discovered a shared passion for category design. Peter, with his extensive experience in software and...

This week Matt Cohen welcomes Anthony Lacavera, an entrepreneur known for founding Globalive and Wind Mobile.

Anthony shares his journey from starting his first business after graduating from the University of Toronto to challenging the Canadian telecom giants with Wind Mobile. He discusses the lessons learned from his successes and failures, his passion for innovation, and his latest ventures in the Caribbean telecom industry and the matchmaking space with Pair Us. Throughout the conversation, Anthony highlights the importance of resilience, transparency, and fostering meaningful relationships in both business and life.

About Anthony Lacavera

...

Matt Cohen welcomes back John Ruffolo of Maverix Private Equity, focusing on a variety of topics, including predictions for the next Canadian election, reflections on the 2023 conference season, and the impact of long-term value creation in Canadian business. They also discuss PitchBook's 2024 university rankings and their implications for Canadian education and entrepreneurship. Additionally, they explore trends in private equity and leveraged buyouts, the impact of interest rates on these markets, and the future of long-term capital in Canada.

In this episode, we discuss:

* (00:21) The busy conference season including Maverix’s off-the-record Leadership Summit

* (02:00) Re...

In this episode, Matt Cohen sits down with Arati Sharma and Satish Kanwar, the powerhouse duo behind Good Future, a family office with a mission to support and grow the Canadian tech ecosystem. They discuss their journey from starting the digital design agency Jet Cooper to playing pivotal roles at Shopify, and now investing in the next generation of entrepreneurs. The conversation delves into their insights on building community, the importance of innovation, and their commitment to making a lasting impact on the Canadian tech scene.

About Arati Sharma

Arati Sharma is a prominent entrepreneur...

This week Tom McCullough, Chairman and CEO of Northwood Family Office stops by to talk all things Family Office.

Tom is often referred to as the "godfather" of family offices in Canada. He shares his journey from a successful career at Dominion Securities to founding Northwood Family Office, where he has spent over two decades helping families manage their wealth and complex financial needs. The discussion covers the evolution of the family office industry, the importance of building trust with clients, and Tom's insights into intergenerational wealth transfer and the growing complexity of wealth management in today's...

Matt Cohen and John Ruffolo of Maverix Private Equity talk about a wide array of current topics in venture capital, with a particular focus on the state of AI funding with Radical Ventures raising an $800M AI-focused fund, the challenges facing late-stage startups, and the impact of government policies on entrepreneurship and innovation.

In this episode, we discuss:

(00:23) Radical Ventures raises $800M for growth-stage AI startups

(01:19) Discussing risks and rewards in AI growth-stage investing

(05:09) Insights from Carta and CVCA reports on late-stage funding challenges

(13:18) Canadian Entrepreneurs Incentive (CEI) changes...

On this week's episode, we welcome Mario Nigro, a partner at Stikeman Elliott, to discuss navigating the world of search funds and recent trends in mid-cap M&A.

Mario shares his journey to becoming an M&A expert and offers insights into the evolving landscape of mergers and acquisitions, particularly in the Canadian market.

He explains the rising popularity of the entrepreneurship-through-acquisition model and highlights the essential traits for aspiring search fund founders.

We also explore current trends in mid-market M&A, the impact of rising interest rates, and the significant changes since...

In this week's episode, Matt talks to Melissa Cash, Co-Founder and CEO of Pok Pok. She shares her story of creating an award-winning kids' app. Melissa explains how her time at Disney and working with Snowman helped shape Pok Pok, and the challenges they faced in starting the company.

Melissa talks about where the idea for Pok Pok came from and the key principles behind its design. She focuses on making the app fun and educational while keeping it safe and low-stimulation for kids. She also discusses the impact of winning big awards like the Apple Design...

We have friend-of-the pod Jamie Rhode, now a partner at ScreenDoor, back to discuss all things emerging managers and LP investing. Jamie shares her reasons for joining ScreenDoor, and the evolution of the venture landscape since leaving the family office world. The conversation covers the changing perspectives of LPs regarding emerging managers and the unique challenges they face compared to public markets.

About Jamie Rhode:Jamie Rhode, CFA, is a Partner at ScreenDoor, an investment platform that supports new and developing managers in raising early-stage institutional venture funds.

Prior to Screendoor, Jamie spent over eight...

In this 200th episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen reflects on the podcast's journey and the lessons learned.

The episode features a discussion with John Ruffolo of Maverix Private Equity, about major events in the tech and investment world, including recent funding rounds, the impact of AI, a significant cybersecurity outage, and political developments.

In this episode, we discuss:

(01:04) Tips for aspiring podcasters: embrace mistakes, maintain consistency, and stay curious

(01:49) Introduction to guest John Ruffolo

(02:00) Discussion about Clio’s $3 billion valuation Series F round

(03:00) The significance of...

In this episode of Tank Talks, Matt Cohen and John Ruffalo delve into the current political landscape in the U.S., the ongoing housing affordability crisis in Canada, and the burgeoning investments in generative AI.

The discussion touches on the recent U.S. presidential election debate, the potential impact of a Trump administration on Canada, and the controversial proposal to tax home equity in Canada. The episode also examines Andreessen Horowitz's strategic investment in GPU capabilities and the implications of the Google acquisition of Hubspot shutdown. They conclude by discussing the challenges in the Canadian healthcare system...

On this week's episode, we welcome Mike McLean, CEO of Innovation Asset Collective, to talk about the importance of intellectual property (IP) for startups and Canadian companies. Mike explains how founders can prepare for IP challenges when entering global markets and how to use IP to create value.

Mike talks about how the government helps Canadian tech companies protect and use their IP, and he points out that Canada is not doing as well as it should in creating and using IP, with many Canadian patents owned by foreign companies. He shares advice on building a defensive...

This week, John Ruffolo of Maverix Private Equity is back with Matt to talk about the latest news in the tech and capital ecosystem.

They discuss the surprising results of the Toronto by-election, the commercialization of AI in Canada, and strategic investment moves by pension funds. Additionally, they delve into AI's impact on Hollywood, Apple's strategic partnerships, and the European Union's fines on big tech.

In this episode, we discuss:

(00:23) Toronto By-Election Results

(05:05) Commercialization of AI in Canada

(08:09) Investment Strategies of Pension Funds

(11:00) AI in Hollywood and...

This week, John Ruffolo of Maverix Private Equity is back with Matt to talk about the latest news in the tech and capital ecosystem.

They discuss the end of the Collision Conference in Toronto, TD Bank's new initiative for tech entrepreneurs, and big moves in AI.

They also cover Jerome Nycz's retirement from BDC Capital and Raquel Urtasun's new funding round for her company, Waabi.

In this episode, we discuss:

(00:00) Impact of Collision Conference on Toronto Ecosystem

(01:33) Opportunities for Vancouver Ecosystem

(05:52) TD Innovation Partners launch

(08:28...

This week John Ruffolo of Maverix Private Equity is back with Matt to talk about the news affecting the venture capital and financial sectors including Cohere's recent $450 million fundraising, featuring investments from Nvidia, Salesforce Ventures, and others. The conversation shifts to the resurgence of crypto interest, Vista Equity's write-off of Pluralsight, private equity firms targeting individual assets within companies rather than entire companies, and how that could present opportunities for venture capitalists to recover some value from underperforming investments.

They also cover Canada's capital gains plan's slow progress and impact on investment stability, as well as the...

This week, we welcome Rob Kumer, CEO of KingSett Capital, to share his journey from Analyst to CEO, the evolution of KingSett Capital, and the strategic moves that have shaped the firm into a $17 billion private equity real estate powerhouse.

Rob provides insights into the impact of global experiences on his career, the challenges and opportunities of zero-carbon buildings, and the future of office spaces amid market bifurcation and work-from-home trends.

About Rob Kumer: Rob Kumer is the Chief Executive Officer of KingSett Capital.

As the chair of KingSett’s Investment Committee, Rob ov...

This week's guest is Nolan Bederman of Bederman Capital discusses the evolving landscape of private equity, emphasizing the importance of strategic growth, innovation, and building strong management partnerships. He highlights the need to balance technology and business operations, address regulatory challenges, and prioritize psychological insight in investment decisions. Bederman also critiques the Canadian regulatory environment, calling for a more supportive approach to entrepreneurship to drive productivity and economic growth.

About Nolan Bederman:Nolan Bederman is the Executive Chair of the Lifespeak and is also the founder and managing partner of Bederman Capital Corp., a private equity business...