Venture Step

Hosted by Dalton Anderson

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123

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Aug 2026

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About the show

Venture Step is an independent podcast for curious builders. Host Dalton Anderson explores AI, startups, company strategy, research, policy, and the personal realities of building something meaningful through candid interviews, original deep dives, and solo episodes.

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August 11, 2026Episode 12330 min

HOW TO USE CODEX BEYOND THE FIRST PROMPT

Short summary Most AI demos stop when something appears on screen. This one starts there. Dalton Anderson uses OpenAI Codex to turn fictional customer feedback into a working dashboard, then critiques the first output, steers the redesign, and explains the system around reliable agent work: Plan as the map, Goal as the contract, skills as reusable procedures, and evaluations plus stop conditions for agentic loops. A practical episode for founders, operators, and builders who want better results from Codex without giving up judgment. ### Mobile-first show notes Most AI demos stop when something appears on screen. This one starts there. Dalton gives Codex a fictional customer-feedback dataset and asks for a decision-ready dashboard. The first output works, but it is not good enough. That becomes the real lesson. This episode shows how to move from a one-shot prompt to a workflow you can inspect, steer, and verify. You will learn: - Why Plan is the map and Goal is the contract - The four parts of a strong goal: outcome, context, constraints, and done-when evidence - When a repeatable workflow should become a skill - How clear names keep a growing skill library usable - Why every agentic loop needs an evaluation and a hard stop - Where human judgment still matters The demonstration uses fictional data. No outreach is sent. ## Official OpenAI resources - [Codex use cases](https://developers.openai.com/codex/use-cases) - [Build skills](https://learn.chatgpt.com/docs/build-skills) - [Build plugins](https://learn.chatgpt.com/docs/build-plugins) - [Subagents](https://learn.chatgpt.com/docs/agent-configuration/subagents) - [AGENTS.md](https://learn.chatgpt.com/docs/agent-configuration/agents-md) - [Follow a goal](https://learn.chatgpt.com/use-cases/follow-goals) - [Scheduled tasks](https://learn.chatgpt.com/docs/automations) - [Git worktrees](https://learn.chatgpt.com/docs/environments/git-worktrees) - [OpenAI Codex repository](https://github.com/openai/codex) - [OpenAI Plugins repository](https://github.com/openai/plugins) Note: the older [openai/skills repository](https://github.com/openai/skills) is deprecated and now directs readers to OpenAI Plugins. ## Skill repositories worth exploring - [Anthropic Skills](https://github.com/anthropics/skills): official Claude skill examples and templates - [Superpowers](https://github.com/obra/superpowers): a cross-agent software development workflow and skill collection - [Microsoft Skills](https://github.com/microsoft/skills): skills and custom agents for Microsoft developer workflows - [Microsoft Learn Agent Skills](https://github.com/MicrosoftDocs/Agent-Skills): Microsoft and Azure skills grounded in Learn documentation - [Gemini CLI](https://github.com/google-gemini/gemini-cli): Google's open-source coding agent with Agent Skills support - [Gemini CLI Agent Skills guide](https://geminicli.com/docs/cli/using-agent-skills/) - [Agent Skills specification](https://github.com/agentskills/agentskills): the open format behind portable skills - [Vercel Skills](https://github.com/vercel-labs/skills): a cross-agent CLI for discovering, installing, and sharing skills Install selectively. Read a skill before trusting it, understand the tools and permissions it can use, and test it on bounded work first. ## Chapters 00:00 Why this episode exists 01:45 Turning fictional feedback into a dashboard 02:29 Commands, context, compact, goals, and Plan 04:16 What the first plan is doing 07:05 Steering the build with butter yellow 09:03 Reviewing the first dashboard 10:37 Plan is the map, Goal drives the work 15:54 An honest review of the redesign 17:23 Building a Goal and the four-part prompt formula 21:08 Commands, skills, and reusable workflows 24:57 Naming skills so they stay usable 26:34 Broad threads and focused projects 28:27 A simple context-and-constraints analogy 30:52 Keeping agentic loops safe 32:21 Closing

July 14, 20261 hr 11 min

BUILDING BETTER PRODUCTS BY REFUSING TO ACCEPT "GOOD ENOUGH" WITH JOSH SPRAGUE

Discover how innovative entrepreneurs like Josh leverage AI and automation tools to streamline business operations, enhance product development, and boost growth. This episode reveals practical insights into using AI for marketing, product testing, and managing multiple ventures efficiently. Discover how AI tools like Claude and Grok are revolutionizing entrepreneurship, PPC management, and digital marketing. Josh Sprague shares practical insights on leveraging AI for business efficiency, product research, and content creation, all while contemplating the future of AI and society. keywords AI, entrepreneurship, business automation, product development, marketing, Orange Mud, Seven Clay, Claude, venture capital, innovation AI, entrepreneurship, Claude, Grok, PPC management, digital marketing, Josh Sprague, Orange Mud, Sevenclay, AI tools, business efficiency key topics Building a passion-based brand from scratch Using AI to streamline marketing and analytics Product testing and iteration in endurance sports gear Managing multiple businesses with automation The importance of customer feedback in product development AI's impact on entrepreneurship and business efficiency Using Claude and Grok for PPC and product research The evolution of digital marketing with AI Future societal implications of AI and quantum computing Practical tips for leveraging AI tools in business sound bites "Customer feedback is the best way to improve products." "AI opens up efficiency and opportunity." "AI will dig into your entire ecosystem and fix problems." chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 01:49 The Origin of Orange Mud 04:52 Building a Passion Brand from Personal Frustration 07:59 The Challenges of Product Development and Testing 12:45 Endurance Sports and Product Testing Insights 19:47 Using AI and Automation in Business 29:58 Managing Multiple Ventures with AI Tools 40:10 The Future of Innovation and Business Efficiency resources Orange Mud - Endurance Gear - https://orangemud.com/ Claude AI - Language Model - https://www.anthropic.com/claude Venture Step Website - https://www.daltonanderson.net/venture-step/ Claude AI - https://www.anthropic.com/claude Grok AI - https://grok.ai/ Orange Mud - https://orangemud.com Seven Clay - https://sevenclay.com Josh Sprague - https://linkedin.com/in/josh-sprague learn more https://www.daltonanderson.net/venture-step/

May 26, 202643 min

THE WORLD'S STRONGEST ROBOTIC ARM: HOW RISE ROBOTICS REINVENTED THE ACTUATOR

Explore the innovative belt-and-pulley system by Rise Robotics with CEO Hiten Sonpal. This technology revolutionizes linear actuation, replacing traditional hydraulics and screw systems. Learn about its applications in heavy machinery and defense, its environmental benefits, and insights into crowdfunding and investor engagement. keywords Rise Robotics, belt and pulley system, linear actuator, hydraulics replacement, screw actuator, heavy machinery, defense technology, crowdfunding, climate tech, automation key topics Beltrolic technology as a new form of linear actuation Limitations of hydraulics and screw actuators Applications in heavy machinery, defense, and oil & gas Environmental benefits and energy efficiency Crowdfunding and investor engagement strategies sound bites "We are three times as energy efficient." "Regenerative braking for actuators." "Crowdfunding raised over $5.8 million." chapters 00:00 Introduction to RISE Robotics and Actuator Technology 06:21 The Evolution of Actuator Systems 11:01 Automation and the Future of Heavy Machinery 15:41 Identifying the Ideal Customer Base 20:18 Applications in Oil and Gas and Beyond 24:36 Revolutionizing Munitions Handling with Super Jammer 27:42 Understanding Six Axis Systems and Their Applications 29:24 Efficiency and Safety in Military Operations 29:41 The Weight and Design of the Super Jammer 30:03 Achieving a Guinness World Record 32:05 The Power of Hydraulic Technology 33:57 Crowdfunding: Engaging Investors and Customers 39:21 Leveraging Investor Feedback for Growth resources Rise Robotics Website - https://riserobotics.com Wefunder Crowdfunding Campaign - https://wefunder.com/riserobotics Guinness World Record for Strongest Robotic Arm - https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/records/strength/strongest-robotic-arm Regulation Crowdfunding (Reg CF) - SEC - https://www.sec.gov/spotlight/regulation-crowdfunding Hiten Sonpal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/hiten-sonpal/ learn more https://www.daltonanderson.net/venture-step/

April 21, 2026Episode 1121 hr 8 min

BEN GILLILAND & FUTURE PROOF: AI BLUEPRINT FOR CLIMATE RISK MITIGATION & PROPERTY HARDENING

Ben Gilman, founder of Future Proof, discusses innovative solutions to the insurance industry's challenges with catastrophic risks, leveraging AI, geospatial data, and home hardening techniques to reduce risk and improve market stability. keywords insurance, catastrophic risk, AI, home hardening, climate change, risk mitigation, Future Proof, real estate, disaster preparedness key topics Insurance industry challenges with catastrophic risks Use of AI and geospatial data for risk assessment Home hardening techniques and remediation Climate change impact on property values and insurance Public-private partnerships for risk mitigation sound bites "Remediation costs between $20,000 and $40,000 per home." "Houses built on unstable land are a ticking time bomb." "Knowledge is power in risk assessment and mitigation." Chapters 00:00 The Broken Insurance Model 02:11 Understanding Catastrophic Risks 05:12 The Interconnectedness of Real Estate and Insurance 08:21 Building Codes and Construction Practices 11:12 Innovative Solutions for Risk Mitigation 13:59 The Role of AI in Home Risk Assessment 17:10 Educating Homeowners on Risk Management 20:08 Future Proof: A Comprehensive Approach 23:12 The Economic Implications of Home Hardening 26:11 The Future of Real Estate in Risk Zones 35:48 Understanding Containable Disasters 36:52 The Importance of Integration in Home Safety 37:38 Cost Implications of Home Repairs 39:59 The Role of Professionals in Home Maintenance 41:42 The Complexity of Home Insurance and Risk 44:02 Public-Private Partnerships in Disaster Preparedness 46:03 Bridging the Gap Between Homeowners and Insurers 49:31 Behavioral Insights on Homeowner Risk Perception 51:58 Innovative Solutions for Home Safety 53:52 The Emotional Dynamics of Insurance Claims 55:20 The Future of Home Insurance and AI 59:44 Building Trust in the Insurance Process 01:02:10 The Need for Transparency in Insurance 01:07:00 Preparing for Future Housing Challenges resources Future Proof - https://futureproof.org RS Means - https://www.rsmeans.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-gilliland-third/ Venture Step https://www.daltonanderson.net/venture-step/

February 17, 2026Episode 10440 min

FOUNDER READINESS INSTITUTE: VERTICAL DEVELOPMENT SCIENCE WITH LOGAN YONAVJAK

Keywords Founder Readiness, AI, Leadership Capacity, Coachability, Venture Capital, Diversity, Hiring Transparency, Personal Growth, Investor Relationships, AI in Hiring Summary In this episode of the VentureStep podcast, Dalton Anderson speaks with Logan Yonavjak, co-founder and CEO of the Founder Readiness Institute. They discuss the innovative use of AI to evaluate founder soft skills and leadership capacity, aiming to reduce bias in venture capital and improve investment decisions. The conversation explores the importance of coachability, emotional resilience, and the need for diversity in funding. They also touch on the significance of transparency in hiring processes and how AI can enhance decision-making in leadership roles. Takeaways The current venture capital model accepts a 90% fail rate. AI can illuminate an individual's capacity to lead under pressure. Coachability is a critical component of leadership evaluation. 65% of startups fail due to people problems. Diversity in funding is crucial for better outcomes. 40% of corporate hires do not work out, highlighting the need for better evaluation. Transparency in hiring processes can improve decision-making. AI can help structure people decisions more effectively. Understanding personal growth through assessments is vital for leaders. Navigating investor relationships requires thorough evaluation of potential partners. Titles Revolutionizing Founder Evaluation with AI The Human Element in Venture Capital sound bites "This adds structure to people decisions" "How do we handle all of this?" "AI is a complexity skill" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Founder Readiness and AI 03:00 Evaluating Leadership Capacity Under Pressure 06:09 The Role of Coachability in Leadership 09:01 Bias in Venture Capital and Founder Evaluation 11:58 Diversity in Funding and Decision-Making 15:08 The Importance of Transparency in Hiring 18:12 Using AI for Leadership Assessment 20:54 Navigating VC Relationships and Expectations 23:46 The Future of Hiring and AI Integration

January 20, 2026Episode 10037 min

NAPLAB: PROOF OF VALUE WITH DEREK HALES

Summary In this episode of the Venture Step podcast, host Dalton Anderson welcomes Derek Hales, founder of Nap Lab, to discuss the intricacies of mattress reviews and the journey of building a transparent product testing platform. Derek shares his personal experience of mattress shopping, which sparked his interest in creating a resource that provides objective data for consumers. He recounts how his initial project, Sleep Populous, evolved into Nap Lab, where he now tests and reviews mattresses with a focus on data-driven insights. The conversation delves into the challenges of navigating the mattress industry, the importance of transparency in reviews, and the methodologies used in testing products to ensure consumers make informed decisions. Derek emphasizes the need for consumers to be skeptical of reviews, especially those that may be sponsored or lack transparency. He discusses the innovative testing methods he employs, such as using a medicine ball to measure sinkage, which provides clear and understandable results for consumers. The episode concludes with Derek's vision for Nap Lab, aiming to create the ultimate mattress resource that empowers consumers with the knowledge they need to make confident purchases. This insightful discussion not only highlights the complexities of the mattress market but also offers valuable takeaways for anyone looking to make informed buying decisions in the realm of sleep products. Keywords mattress reviews, Nap Lab, product testing, transparency, consumer insights, sleep products, Derek Hales, entrepreneurship, data-driven testing, mattress industry Takeaways "The inspiration really kind of began in 2014 when my wife and I got married." "I want to make the most data-driven, quantifiable mattress resource possible on the internet." "Sometimes a simpler approach is just as good and sometimes better." "If you can't explain what you're doing to a child, you don't really understand what you're doing." "Consumers should have the same information to know what's in that product." Sound Bites ""We ended up taking a chance on an online bed..."" ""We just got this thing sort of up and running..."" ""Be skeptical of other reviews that you see out there."" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Nap Lab and Derek Hales 02:02 The Inspiration Behind Nap Lab 06:36 The Journey from Garage to Lab 12:51 Testing Methodologies and Innovations 18:55 Understanding Mattress Scores and Recommendations 25:37 Future Vision for Nap Lab 31:05 Identifying Red Flags in Mattress Reviews 36:29 How to Connect with Nap Lab Learn More https://naplab.com/ https://naplab.com/mattress-quiz/ https://naplab.com/about/derek-hales/ Venture Step https://www.daltonanderson.net/venture-step/

November 11, 2025Episode 9023 min

HOW TO HANDLE DIFFICULT PEOPLE: FROM CONFRONTATION TO CONVERSATION

Keywords confrontation, conversation, professional relationships, connection, resistance, difficult people, empathy, communication Summary In this episode, Dalton Anderson tackles the challenge of dealing with "difficult" people, arguing that confrontation is best resolved by transforming it into a conversation. He explains that people are rarely difficult without a reason, as being difficult costs energy and is uncomfortable. The key, he suggests, is to build a genuine personal connection, which allows you to pull someone aside and understand the true reason for their resistance—be it fear, misinformation, or hidden constraints. Takeaways People are rarely difficult for no reason; being confrontational requires energy and effort. The best way to solve confrontation is to have a conversation. To have a successful conversation, you must first build a genuine personal connection with the other person. Genuinely connecting with colleagues allows you to understand their perspective and remove ego from the situation. It's your job to uncover why someone is being resistant, whether it's fear of change, lack of information, or past experiences. If you are incorrect, admit it immediately and respectfully; this builds trust. Before confronting someone, you better be sure you are correct, similar to how HR already knows the answer before asking a question. There is almost always something blocking the "easy path" (the path of least resistance); find out what it is. Sound bites "We label them as difficult, but people are really difficult for no reason." "Instead of being confrontational, be conversational." "HR doesn't ask you questions unless they already know the answer, by the way." "People typically take the path of least resistance." "Why is there this flag in the ground and they're just standing on it?" "Pull them aside and say this is the new way, get on board or find a job. That's confrontational." Chapters 00:00 Introduction: The Problem with "Difficult" People 01:29 Episode 90 Announcement & Podcast Updates 03:55 The Core Thesis: Be Conversational, Not Confrontational 04:15 The Power of a Genuine Personal Connection 06:25 The Importance of Admitting When You're Wrong 08:24 People Aren't Difficult for No Reason 09:20 Uncovering the Root Cause of Resistance 11:15 Building Informal, Effective Professional Relationships 13:20 Why Are They Blocking the Easy Path? 15:47 Example 1: The Unresponsive Stakeholder 17:53 Example 2: The Resistant Salesperson (Fear of Change) 20:15 Example 3: The Nitpicking Client 21:30 Final Summary & Wrap-up

September 9, 2025Episode 8141 min

REIMAGINING TRADITION: AI'S INFLUENCE ON REAL ESTATE AND INSURANCE WITH LUKE TATMAN

Keywords AI, entrepreneurship, real estate, job displacement, innovation, commercial real estate, data accessibility, industry disruption, technology adoption, future of work Summary In this episode of the Midget Step Podcast, Dalton Anderson and Luke Tatman discuss the transformative impact of AI on various industries, particularly real estate and insurance. They explore the risks to jobs posed by AI adoption, the potential for innovation, and the changing landscape of commercial real estate. The conversation highlights the importance of an entrepreneurial mindset in adapting to these changes and the evolving role of data accessibility in decision-making processes. As AI continues to disrupt traditional business models, the hosts emphasize the need for individuals and companies to embrace new technologies and strategies to remain competitive. Takeaways AI has the potential to level the playing field in various industries. Jobs at risk due to AI adoption are not limited to entry-level positions. AI can serve as a catalyst for innovation, enabling faster and cheaper product development. The traditional value proposition in real estate is being challenged by AI's data accessibility. Commercial real estate is undergoing significant transformation due to AI. The middle market in various industries may shrink as larger firms adopt AI. Relationships will always play a crucial role in business, despite AI advancements. AI tools are making data more accessible to smaller firms. An entrepreneurial mindset is essential for individuals in at-risk jobs. The current era presents a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs to leverage AI. Sound bites "Jobs at risk due to AI adoption." "AI is a catalyst for innovation." "The value proposition stays the same." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to AI and Industry Disruption 01:59 Jobs at Risk: The Impact of AI 07:09 AI as a Catalyst for Innovation 09:55 Siloed Knowledge in Real Estate 13:46 The Changing Landscape of Commercial Real Estate 19:02 AI's Role in Data Aggregation 23:06 The Future of Deal Origination 30:03 The Entrepreneurial Spirit in the Age of AI Reach out to Luke via Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-jamison-tatman-b272b0154/

July 29, 2025Episode 7549 min

HOW AI DATA CENTERS ARE DRAINING POWER, WATER, AND PATIENCE: THE HIDDEN COSTS OF THE CLOUD

Keywords AI data centers, energy consumption, water usage, environmental impact, local communities, health concerns, technology, politics, sustainability, future trends Summary This podcast episode delves into the rapid growth of AI data centers, their significant energy consumption, and the environmental and social implications they bring to local communities. The discussion highlights the staggering statistics surrounding energy and water usage, the strain on local resources, and the health concerns arising from pollution. It also touches on the political ramifications and the need for better policies to address these issues, setting the stage for a future episode that will explore the potential benefits of these data centers and advancements in technology. Takeaways AI data centers currently consume 1.5% of global energy. Predicted energy consumption for AI data centers will reach 950 terawatt hours by 2030. One year of AI data center energy usage could power California for 30 years. Data centers in Virginia account for 25% of the state's energy consumption. A large data center can use up to 5 million gallons of water daily. 66% of data centers are located in water-scarce regions. Local communities are experiencing increased energy costs due to data centers. Pollution from gas turbines is causing health issues in nearby residents. Data centers are prioritizing profits while socializing costs to local populations. Future discussions will focus on the benefits and technological advancements in data centers. Titles The Future of AI Data Centers Energy Strain: The Cost of Progress Sound bites "AI data centers use 1.5% of global energy." "Pollution from gas turbines affects local health." "66% of data centers are in water-scarce areas." Chapters 00:00 The Rise of AI Data Centers 04:57 Energy Consumption and Its Implications 10:13 Water Usage and Environmental Impact 18:00 Local Community Effects and Health Concerns 29:50 Political and Social Ramifications 45:09 Looking Ahead: The Future of Data Centers SUPPORT https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DGjj7wDYaiI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3VJT2JeDCyw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mSWgDOzfKRI

March 18, 2025Episode 6043 min

SUS Learnings: Is NYC Cracked?

Keywords entrepreneurship, New York City, Washington D.C., startup, wellness, networking, reinsurance, personal growth, experiences, business Summary In this episode of the Venture Step Podcast, Dalton Anderson shares his experiences and insights from his recent travels to New York City and Washington D.C. He discusses the importance of identifying key resources for entrepreneurs, his wellness retreat in D.C., and the vibrant energy of New York City that fosters networking and personal growth. Dalton also provides an update on his startup progress and outlines his future plans for developing his business idea. Takeaways Identifying key resources is crucial for entrepreneurs. Traveling to new cities helps in finding essential resources. Wellness retreats can significantly improve mental and physical health. New York City offers unparalleled networking opportunities. Spontaneity in social interactions can lead to valuable connections. The energy of a city can inspire creativity and productivity. Building a startup requires a clear MVP and distribution strategy. Engaging with others can provide unexpected insights and advice. Sustained progress is more effective than bursts of inspiration. New York City is a hub for entrepreneurial growth and opportunities. Sound Bites "It's crazy what New York can do." "I loved every minute of it." "I am legitimately all in." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Venture Step Podcast 02:17 Key Resources for Entrepreneurs 06:44 Experiences in Washington D.C. 14:44 The Vibrancy of New York City 22:15 Networking and Opportunities in NYC 30:06 Startup Progress and Future Plans