Biz and Tech Podcasts > Business > Deep Tech Germany – Startups and Venture Capital
Last Episode Date: 03/20/2025
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Sponsored by Vanta: 👉 Vanta automates security and compliance. Save $1,000 with us by signing up using this link: vanta.com/startupradio. In this episode of Startuprad.io, we explore the game-changing impact of AI phone assistants on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). If your business is grappling with missed calls, strained staff, or inefficient customer service, AI is the solution you need to stay ahead of the curve. Our guest, Daniel Keinrath, co-founder and CEO of Fonio.ai, shares insights into how his company is helping SMEs streamline their customer communication. Daniel discusses the challenges faced by SMEs in customer service and how Fonio.ai's AI-driven technology is revolutionizing this space by automating call handling and improving response times. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The common struggles SMEs face with customer communication, including staffing shortages and missed calls. How AI phone assistants are transforming customer service by automating responses and enhancing customer experience. The unique customization capabilities of Fonio.ai and how it adapts to each SME’s needs. Entrepreneurial advice from Daniel on building a scalable AI startup, including key strategies for communication, adaptability, and resilience. How AI is enabling SMEs to scale their customer service operations without significantly increasing overhead. Perfect For: Entrepreneurs and tech founders looking for ways to grow their AI-driven businesses. SME owners aiming to enhance their customer service with AI. Investors interested in the AI and SME automation space. For more on how AI phone assistants are transforming customer service, check out our detailed blog post: How AI Phone Assistants Are Revolutionizing SME Customer Service. Music Credits: The music used in our intro is "MF-297 : First Hero" licensed from Musicfox.com: https://www.musicfox.com/detailsuche/?searchtext=297&submit=search
Join us as Professor Detlev Riesner, co-founder of Qiagen, reveals the secrets behind building a global biotech powerhouse. Launching Qiagen in 1980s Germany, a time when venture capital was scarce and the path from research to market success was uncharted, Professor Riesner didn’t just imagine it—he lived it. 👉 Vanta automates security and compliance, save 1.000 US$ with us by signing up with this link: vanta.com/startupradio In this exclusive interview, you’ll learn: The founding story of Qiagen and its groundbreaking achievement as the first German company to list on Nasdaq! 🚀 Professor Riesner’s firsthand account of overcoming early-stage biotech challenges and securing funding. Key strategies for bridging the gap between academic research and building a thriving business. Insights into the evolution of Germany's biotech ecosystem and its impact on innovation. Professor Riesner’s advice for biotech entrepreneurs, tech founders, and investors. A must-listen for those interested in: Biotech entrepreneurship and startups Biotech funding and investment University spin-offs and technology transfer Building and scaling successful biotech companies The history and future of the German biotech industry Ready to be inspired? Professor Riesner’s profound insight: "It has to be in the mind of the administration of these people to help and not to ask money from people who don't have the money." This insight encapsulates the challenges and potential of academic entrepreneurship. Episode Highlights: The influence of a Nobel laureate on Professor Riesner’s academic journey. Transitioning from academia to building a biotech company. Overcoming funding challenges in biotech’s early days. Qiagen’s historic Nasdaq listing. The evolution of Germany's biotech ecosystem. Professor Riesner’s advice for aspiring biotech entrepreneurs. Learn more about Professor Detlev Riesner: Wikipedia: Detlev Riesner QIAGEN: Prof. Dr. Detlev Riesner in Hall of Fame Connect with Startuprad.io: Work with us – Reach out: partnerships@startuprad.io Subscribe to our podcast Give us feedback Follow our Editor-in-Chief / Founder on LinkedIn #BiotechEntrepreneurship #BiotechStartups #BiotechInnovation #BiotechFunding #UniversitySpinOffs #Qiagen #GermanBiotech #DACHStartups #AcademicEntrepreneurship #BiotechIndustry #Entrepreneurship #StartupSuccess #BiotechGermany #BiotechHistory #BiotechLeadership #VentureCapital #Nasdaq #Startupradio Share this episode with your network!
👉 Vanta automates security and compliance, save 1.000 US$ with us by signing up with this link: vanta.com/startupradio In this captivating episode, we dive into the life of Professor Detlev Riesner, the visionary co-founder of Qiagen, who took a biotech startup from the lab to Nasdaq in the 1980s, a time when venture capital was a distant dream. His story is a testament to scientific curiosity, entrepreneurial grit, and the transformative power of biotech. In this exclusive interview, you’ll hear: The riveting founding story of Qiagen and its rise to become the first German company listed on Nasdaq! 🚀 Insights into navigating early-stage biotech development in a rapidly evolving industry. The secrets to bridging the gap between groundbreaking academic research and business success. Expert advice on building a thriving biotech business and the evolution of the German biotech ecosystem. Professor Riesner’s invaluable tips for aspiring biotech entrepreneurs, tech founders, and investors. This episode is perfect for: Biotech entrepreneurship Biotech startups and innovation Biotech funding and investment University spin-offs and technology transfer The history of biotech The German biotech industry Scaling a successful biotech company Why listen? We go beyond the surface to explore the personal journey of Professor Riesner, his pivotal decisions, and the relentless determination that fueled Qiagen’s success. His profound insight—"It has to be in the mind of the administration of these people to help and not to ask money from people who don’t have it"—encapsulates the challenges and potential of academic entrepreneurship. Episode Highlights: The influence of a Nobel laureate on Professor Riesner’s academic journey. Transitioning from academia to building a biotech company. Overcoming early funding challenges in biotech. Key milestones in Qiagen’s history, including their Nasdaq listing. The evolution of Germany’s biotech ecosystem. Practical advice for biotech entrepreneurs. Learn more about Professor Detlev Riesner: Wikipedia: Detlev Riesner QIAGEN: Prof. Dr. Detlev Riesner in Hall of Fame Connect with Startuprad.io: Subscribe to our podcast Follow Joe on LinkedIn #BiotechEntrepreneurship #BiotechInnovation #BiotechFunding #UniversitySpinOffs #Qiagen #GermanBiotech #DACHStartups #AcademicEntrepreneurship #BiotechIndustry #StartupSuccess #BiotechGermany #VentureCapital #Nasdaq #Startupradio Share this episode with your network!
👉 Vanta automates security and compliance, save 1.000 US$ with us by signing up with this link: vanta.com/startupradio Dive into the world of AI-driven robotics with Jan Liphardt, founder of OpenMind Robotics and associate professor at Stanford University, on Startuprad.io! OpenMind is pioneering open-source software for robots, enabling them to engage in conversations, assist with tasks, and even tutor in math. In this episode, Jan discusses the inspiration behind OpenMind, the challenges of developing robotics software, and the company's vision for the future of robotics, including its potential impact on industries like healthcare and elder care. Discover: The genesis of OpenMind and its focus on AI-powered robot dogs for companionship and assistance. The challenges of developing robotics software, including ensuring safety and avoiding unintended actions. OpenMind's vision for the future of robotics, including its potential impact on industries like healthcare and elder care. The ethical considerations of AI-driven robotics and the need for broader societal discussion. 👉 Vanta automates security and compliance, save 1.000 US$ with us by signing up with this link: vanta.com/startupradio The music used in our intro is "MF-297 : First Hero" licensed from Musicfox.com: https://www.musicfox.com/detailsuche/?searchtext=297&submit=search Key Moments: [00:00:42] Jan Liphardt shares his background and connection to Germany. [00:01:35] Discover the inspiration behind OpenMind and its mission to bring AI to robotics. [00:03:26] Learn about the challenges of developing robotics software and the importance of understanding human interaction. [00:10:53] Explore the major industry shifts OpenMind is facilitating in the robotics landscape. [00:13:09] Uncover common misconceptions about AI-driven robotics and how OpenMind is addressing them. [00:19:10] Get a deep dive into OM one's core functionalities and architecture. [00:23:36] Hear about surprising uses of OM one in unexpected ways. [00:35:15] Understand the primary revenue model driving OpenMind and its growth strategy. [00:43:57] Learn about the core values that define OpenMind's company culture. [00:46:24] Discuss the ethical considerations as OpenMind scales and its impact on society. Connect with Jan Liphardt: OpenMind Website: https://openmind.org/ Jan Liphardt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jan-liphardt/ Resources Mentioned: Stanford University: https://www.stanford.edu/ CES: https://www.ces.tech/ Starlink: https://www.starlink.com/ Connect with Startuprad.io: Linktr.ee: https://linktr.ee/startupradio
🚀 Big news from the DACH startup world! Finn raises €1B for car subscriptions, Cherry Ventures launches a €500M AI fund, but Lilium faces insolvency. 👉 Vanta automates security and compliance, save 1.000 US$ with us by signing up with this link: vanta.com/startupradio 🤯 Finn raises €1 BILLION for car subscriptions! But is it all good news? Lilium crashes back to earth with its second insolvency. We unpack the hottest DACH startup stories: VC gold rush: Cherry Ventures' new €500M AI fund Political earthquake: How the German election impacts YOU Exclusive insights: Top trends in AI, fintech, biotech, and more 🚀 Don't get left behind! Subscribe now for your weekly dose of DACH startup action. 🚀 Exclusive Offer: Startuprad.io listeners get 2 free SEO-optimized blog posts per month with ModernIQs.com – sign up via the link to claim yours! 🎯✨ https://moderniqs.com/create-an-account/?res_aff=startupradio The music used in our intro is "MF-297 : First Hero" licensed from Musicfox.com: https://www.musicfox.com/detailsuche/?searchtext=297&submit=search © Startuprad.io™ - All Rights Reserved
Is Your Website Ready for DORA? A Cybersecurity Deep Dive with Simon Wijckmans In this episode of Startuprad.io, we're joined by Simon Wijckmans, CEO and Founder of c/side, to discuss the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) and its impact on website security. While many companies focus on securing their core systems, DORA also highlights the crucial role of website security, especially when it comes to third-party dependencies like chatbots, analytics tools, and other dynamic assets. Meet our partners 👉 Vanta automates security and compliance, save 1.000 US$ with us by signing up with this link: vanta.com/startupradio 🚀 Exclusive Offer: Startuprad.io listeners get 2 free SEO-optimized blog posts per month with ModernIQs.com – sign up via the link to claim yours! 🎯✨ https://moderniqs.com/create-an-account/?res_aff=startupradio Key takeaways from this episode: Understanding the DORA Act: Learn about the key requirements of DORA and how it impacts your website's security posture. Managing Third-Party Dependencies: Discover the hidden risks associated with third-party scripts and tools on your website and how to actively monitor and manage them to ensure compliance. Active Monitoring of Dynamic Assets: Explore the importance of actively monitoring dynamic assets like chatbots and interactive elements to detect and respond to security incidents promptly. Incident Response and Regulatory Reporting: Learn how to design an effective incident response process and ensure compliant reporting in the event of a security breach or issue. Communicating Your Compliance Strategy: Discover how to effectively communicate your DORA compliance strategy to investors and build trust by demonstrating your commitment to security. Guest: Simon Wijckmans, CEO and Founder of c/side Company: c/side Website: https://cside.dev/ Show Notes: DORA Act Official Website: https://www.eiopa.europa.eu/digital-operational-resilience-act-dora_en Blog Post: https://www.startuprad.io/post/dora-act-website-compliance-a-comprehensive-guide-for-tech-founders Simon Wijckmans LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wijckmans/ YouTube Talk on Slush: https://youtu.be/m1R2OHTfuo4?si=erGWr07_rJjczAHp Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction 1:30 Understanding the DORA Act 3:15 Identifying Third-Party Dependencies 6:45 Active Monitoring of Dynamic Assets 10:20 Incident Response 13:50 Communicating with Investors 16:30 Q&A
Our Sponsor Vanta 👉 Vanta automates security and compliance, save 1.000 US$ with us by signing up with this link: vanta.com/startupradio ModernIQs (AL) 🚀 Exclusive Offer: Startuprad.io listeners get 2 free SEO-optimized blog posts per month with ModernIQs.com – sign up via the link to claim yours! 🎯✨ Intro In this episode of Startuprad.io, we sit down with Til Klein, Founding Partner of Identity VC, a venture capital firm with a unique mission: investing in the next generation of disruptive startups led by LGBTQ+ founders. Join us as Til shares his journey from a background in consulting to founding Identity VC, driven by a passion for fostering diversity and inclusion in the tech industry. Discover the firm's investment thesis, the challenges and opportunities facing LGBTQ+ founders, and how Identity VC supports its portfolio companies beyond just funding. Startupland We had the pleasure of meeting Till at Startupland by Deutsche-Startups. You can now book a ticket for the next event in November here: https://startupland.de/ - There is still an early bird discount available! Key takeaways from this episode: The importance of a strong mission and vision for startups Common mistakes founders make when pitching to VCs How Identity VC supports its portfolio companies beyond funding The role of AI in investment decisions The evolving landscape of VC and the role of diversity Highlights: "Innovation thrives when we break from the norm. And for the LGBTQ community, breaking the norm is part of our DNA." - Til Klein "We're not just looking for great companies; we're looking for great founders who are passionate about solving real problems." - Til Klein "Diversity is not just a buzzword; it's a strategic advantage that leads to better decision-making and more innovative solutions." - Til Klein Show Notes: Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tilklein/ Website: https://identity.vc/ Startuprad.io blog post: https://www.startuprad.io/post//breaking-norms-identity-vc-invests-in-lgbtq-founders Startuprad.io website: https://www.startuprad.io/ Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction 2:30 Til's journey to founding Identity VC 5:45 Identity VC's investment thesis 10:15 Challenges and opportunities for LGBTQ+ founders 15:30 How Identity VC supports its portfolio companies 20:45 The role of AI in VC 25:00 The future of VC and the role of diversity 30:00 Q&A Join the Community Subscribe to Startuprad.io on Spotify and never miss an episode! Share this episode with your network and help us spread the word about the amazing work of LGBTQ+ founders. Leave a review and let us know what you think of the show!
Imagine a world where computers run on biological matter, consuming a fraction of the energy of today's silicon-based systems. This is the promise of biocomputing, an emerging field poised to revolutionize artificial intelligence (AI) and computing as we know it. In this episode of Startuprad.io, Joe Menninger sits down with Fred Jordan, the CEO and co-founder of Final Spark, a pioneering company in the world of biocomputing. They discuss the potential of biocomputing to revolutionize AI, reduce energy consumption, and create entirely new industries. But what exactly is biocomputing? How does it work? And what are the ethical considerations surrounding this groundbreaking technology? Fred Jordan, a French physicist and engineer, shares his journey from developing counterfeit detection technology to pioneering the field of biocomputing. He explains how Final Spark is pushing the boundaries of biocomputing research and development, with ambitious plans to create a biocomputer server within the next 12 to 13 years. This episode is a must-listen for: Entrepreneurs and tech founders looking to stay ahead of the curve in emerging technologies. Investors seeking to understand the potential of biocomputing and its investment opportunities. Anyone interested in the future of AI and computing. Key Moments: [00:00:00] Introduction and Fred Jordan's background [00:05:46] The journey to biocomputing [00:11:08] How biocomputing works at Final Spark [00:14:44] The energy efficiency of biocomputing [00:21:35] Final Spark's vision and goals [00:28:20] The challenges of biocomputing [00:34:19] The ethical considerations of biocomputing [00:37:45] The future of biocomputing and its applications [00:50:53] Fred Jordan's personal take and legacy Show Notes: Startuprad.io Blog: https://www.startuprad.io/post/biocomputing-the-future-of-ai-with-fred-jordan Final Spark Website: https://finalspark.com/ More about Biocomputing: https://www.startuprad.io/post/biocomputing-applications-transforming-industries-and-shaping-the-future https://www.startuprad.io/post/5-ethical-considerations-for-the-future-of-biocomputing Papers FinalSpark Paper: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/artificial-intelligence/articles/10.3389/frai.2024.1376042/full Paper referred to in the interview: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/science/articles/10.3389/fsci.2023.1017235/full
Ever wondered how AI is changing the face of healthcare? Join us as we sit down with Elias, co-founder of Dianovi, a groundbreaking startup that's revolutionizing emergency rooms with their AI-powered decision support system. In this episode, we delve deep into the world of AI in healthcare, exploring how Dianovi's cutting-edge technology is helping ER physicians make faster, more accurate diagnoses while improving patient care and maximizing hospital revenue. Our Sponsor Vanta Make compliance simple—get $1,000 off now at vanta.com/startupradio. Here's what you can expect: Elias's journey: From industrial engineering to founding a healthcare AI startup – discover the inspiring story behind Dianovi. The challenges of emergency medicine: Elias sheds light on the high-pressure environment of emergency rooms and the critical need for innovative solutions. Dianovi's game-changing solution: Learn how their AI-powered software acts as a digital assistant for ER physicians, providing real-time decision support and personalized treatment recommendations. The benefits of AI in the ER: Discover how Dianovi's technology is improving patient outcomes, enhancing efficiency, and reducing costs for hospitals. The future of AI in healthcare: Elias shares his vision for the future of AI in healthcare and Dianovi's plans for expansion and growth. This episode is a must-listen for: Aspiring entrepreneurs: Gain valuable insights into building a successful healthcare AI startup. Healthcare professionals: Discover how AI can transform your practice and improve patient care. Investors: Explore the exciting investment opportunities in the rapidly growing field of AI in healthcare. Anyone curious about the future of healthcare: Learn how AI is shaping the future of medicine and patient care. Ready to dive in? Hit play and discover the transformative power of AI in emergency medicine! Show Notes: Guest: Elias, co-founder of Dianovi Website: https://www.dianovi.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eliashofmann/ Don't miss out on more insightful episodes! Subscribe and Follow Startuprad.io: https://linktr.ee/startupradio Leave a review: We appreciate your feedback! Share this episode: Spread the word about the transformative power of AI in healthcare! #AIinHealthcare #HealthTech #EmergencyMedicine #Startuprad.io
Ever wondered what makes customers choose one product over another? It's not always about flashy features or marketing hype. It's about solving their problems and fulfilling their needs. In this episode of Startuprad.io, we delve into the fascinating world of Jobs to Be Done (JTBD) with the creator of the theory himself, Tony Ulwick. Tony Ulwick, the founder and CEO of Strategyn and a renowned innovation expert, takes us on a journey through the JTBD framework. Discover how this customer-centric approach can revolutionize your product development process, helping you identify the "jobs" customers are "hiring" your product to do. Our Sponsor Vanta Make compliance simple—get $1,000 off now at vanta.com/startupradio In this episode, you'll learn: The core principles of JTBD and how it differs from traditional market research. How to identify and prioritize customer needs using the JTBD framework. Practical steps to implement JTBD in your product development process. Real-world case studies of companies successfully using JTBD to create winning products. The benefits and challenges of the JTBD approach. Prepare to be inspired and challenged as Tony shares his insights on: Why most product development efforts fail. The importance of understanding customer motivations. How to segment markets based on unmet needs. The role of AI in the future of JTBD. This episode is a must-listen for: Entrepreneurs and product managers looking to build better products. Marketers seeking to understand customer behavior. Innovators and change-makers who want to create products that truly matter. Anyone interested in the future of product development and customer-centricity. Tune in now and discover the secrets to building products that customers truly love! Show Notes: Guest: Tony Ulwick, Founder and CEO of Strategyn Topics: Jobs to Be Done (JTBD), Outcome-Driven Innovation (ODI), Customer Needs, Product Development, Innovation, Market Research Links: Strategyn: https://www.strategyn.com/ Jobs to Be Done website: https://jobstobedone.org/ Tony Ulwick's books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Tony-Ulwick/e/B001H6MZJC Free eBook/Audiobook: https://jobstobedonebook.com/ Blog post: http://startuprad.io/post/jobs-to-be-done-a-framework-for-building-better-products
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