Progress Ventures on Investing in Disruptive Innovation

The Matt Waller Podcast

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المحتوى المقدم من Matt Waller, Ph.D. and Matt Waller. يتم تحميل جميع محتويات البودكاست بما في ذلك الحلقات والرسومات وأوصاف البودكاست وتقديمها مباشرة بواسطة Matt Waller, Ph.D. and Matt Waller أو شريك منصة البودكاست الخاص بهم. إذا كنت تعتقد أن شخصًا ما يستخدم عملك المحمي بحقوق الطبع والنشر دون إذنك، فيمكنك اتباع العملية الموضحة هنا https://ar.player.fm/legal.

Uncuffed

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S4, E1 - Day One 7:38

منذ 6 weeks7:38

التشغيل لاحقا

قوائم

إعجاب

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7:38

Last summer, something monumental happened. One of Uncuffed's founding producers, Greg Eskridge, came home after more than 30 years in prison. In this episode we’ll bring you back to that emotional day last summer when he walked out of the San Quentin gates, free at last. Our work in prisons is supported by the California Arts Council, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, independent foundations, and donations from listeners like you. Learn more, sign up for Uncuffed news, and support the program at www.weareuncuffed.org Follow us @WeAreUncuffed on Instagram and Facebook Transcripts are available within a week of the episode coming out at www.kalw.org/podcast/uncuffed…

منذ عام واحد 50:12

MP3•منزل الحلقة

I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Sam Thompson and Adriaan Zur Muhlen from Progress Ventures. Progress Ventures is a specialty venture capital firm focused on investing in advertising, marketing, and media technology companies. During our discussion, Sam and Adriaan provided fascinating insights into how they identify disruptive innovators, support their portfolio companies, and anticipate emerging trends in digital media.
Progress Ventures differentiates itself from other venture capital firms in several key ways. As former industry executives themselves, Sam and Adriaan have deep experience and networks within the marketing and advertising sectors. This allows Progress Ventures to act like "strategic investors" for their portfolio companies. Progress also takes a hands-on approach, limiting their fund size to around 14-15 companies so they can work closely with each one.
In terms of identifying disruptive innovators, Progress Ventures focuses on specific themes they believe will be important, such as retail media, artificial intelligence, data/identity, and automation. They are constantly networking within their extensive industry contacts to scout out emerging companies within these themes. Progress Ventures looks for companies building platforms rather than single products, as platforms are more likely to achieve venture-level returns through disruption.
Some of Progress Ventures' most notable investments exemplifying their approach include Simplify, a pioneer in local digital advertising that was acquired, and Integral Ad Science, an innovator in brand safety and ad verification. One area Progress sees ripe for disruption is the complex landscape of over 600 retail media networks. They are actively seeking a company that can consolidate and make sense of this fragmented ecosystem.
Beyond just funding, Progress Ventures provides hands-on support like helping companies expand their revenues, make new hires, and establish pilot programs with strategic partners. They also maintain close relationships with later-stage investors to prime their portfolio for successful exits. Progress leverages its expertise in mergers and acquisitions to counsel companies on positioning for ideal acquirers from the start.
Looking ahead, Progress Ventures sees continued focus on retail media/commerce technology, international expansion, and more "complicated" areas like data/identity that demand technical solutions. Their dual model of traditional limited partners and strategic corporate investors has allowed them to identify innovative disruptors for nearly two decades. It will be fascinating to follow their continued leadership in digital transformation.

فصول

1. Progress Ventures on Investing in Disruptive Innovation (00:00:00)

2. Innovating the Retail Value Chain (00:00:10)

3. Supporting Portfolio Companies and Future Trends (00:17:00)

4. Emerging Opportunities in Retail Media (00:24:18)

5. Venture Capital Strategy and Portfolio Management (00:33:42)

6. Venture Progress and Network Recognition (00:49:10)

48 حلقات

#Business #Matt Waller, Ph.D #Matt Waller #Supply Chain #Retail #Logistics #Retail Value Chain #Retail Logistics #Technology #Retail Technology

Progress Ventures on Investing in Disruptive Innovation

The Matt Waller Podcast

published منذ عام واحد

MP3•منزل الحلقة

فصول

1. Progress Ventures on Investing in Disruptive Innovation (00:00:00)

2. Innovating the Retail Value Chain (00:00:10)

3. Supporting Portfolio Companies and Future Trends (00:17:00)

4. Emerging Opportunities in Retail Media (00:24:18)

5. Venture Capital Strategy and Portfolio Management (00:33:42)

6. Venture Progress and Network Recognition (00:49:10)

48 حلقات

#Business #Matt Waller, Ph.D #Matt Waller #Supply Chain #Retail #Logistics #Retail Value Chain #Retail Logistics #Technology #Retail Technology

Kaikki jaksot

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منذ 18 weeks51:01

51:01

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منذ 19 weeks51:05

51:05

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منذ 20 weeks48:40

48:40

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منذ 21 weeks26:35

26:35

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Leading with Humility: Lessons from Retail Supply Chain Icon Chris Sultemeier 1:02:26

منذ 22 weeks1:02:26

1:02:26

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Learning from a Technology Leader: Insights from Tracy Black 36:23

منذ 23 weeks36:23

36:23

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Insights on Scaling Companies in the Retail Value Chain - with Clete Brewer of New Road Capital 42:29

منذ 24 weeks42:29

42:29

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Trucking Market Dynamics: Insights from Chris Caplice and Angi Acocella 57:18

منذ 25 weeks57:18

57:18

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Transforming Ocean Shipping: How NYSHEX's Innovative Platform Drives Supply Chain Efficiency 57:26

منذ 26 weeks57:26

57:26

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The Vital Role of Venture Capital in Economic Growth and Innovation 1:04:51

منذ 27 weeks1:04:51

1:04:51

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The Future of Retail is Here: A Deep Dive into POS, AI, and Running a Successful Agency 1:09:48

منذ 28 weeks1:09:48

1:09:48

Today, I spoke with Jared Smith, CEO of Kitestring Technical Services in Bentonville, Arkansas. Jared, who has a PhD in physical chemistry from UC Berkeley, has led Kitestring, a 150-person firm specializing in retail technology, for the past 12 years. Our discussion ranged from the evolution of point-of-sale (POS) systems and the potential of AI in retail to the importance of self-care for entrepreneurs. Evolution of POS Technology We started by discussing the evolution of POS systems, which handle transactions, inventory management, and customer engagement. Jared’s company has a strong history in POS development. We reminisced about early Scan and Go technology at Walmart and its improvements. Jared believes the future of in-store checkout will involve both self-checkout kiosks and traditional cashier lanes, providing a seamless customer experience. He highlighted technologies like RFID and computer vision that could revolutionize checkout processes, allowing customers to walk through a checkout area while the system automatically identifies and rings up each item. Challenges remain, such as RFID signals being disrupted by liquids and metals and computer vision struggling with obscured items in a cart. Jared suggested a hybrid approach, combining these technologies with sophisticated algorithms, could overcome these issues. Omnichannel Retail and Blurring Lines of Commerce Our conversation then shifted to omnichannel retail, merging online and offline shopping experiences, such as buying online and picking up in-store (BOPUS). Jared mentioned Walmart’s early BOPUS experiments, like the Alaskan Bush Pilot Project in the 90s, which predated widespread internet use. Integrating online and offline channels poses unique challenges in inventory management. Questions arise about when an online sale becomes a store sale and how such transactions impact inventory tracking and sales figures. Retailers must navigate these complexities as they adapt to the evolving landscape. The Promise and Peril of AI in Retail We discussed AI’s potential to transform retail, offering personalized shopping experiences and optimized supply chains. However, AI is also surrounded by hype and uncertainty. Jared stressed the importance of caution when implementing AI, especially in mission-critical systems like POS. Retailers should avoid jumping on AI trends without thorough evaluation, as untested technologies can be disruptive and costly. Nonetheless, AI can enhance operational efficiency. Jared shared a study where consultants using AI tools saw increased productivity and quality. While general-purpose AI tools like ChatGPT are popular, Jared sees more value in specialized AI models trained on specific industry datasets. For instance, an AI assistant trained on a retailer’s historical sales data could provide valuable insights for demand forecasting, pricing optimization, and personalized marketing. Importance of Self-Care for Leaders As our conversation neared its end, we discussed the importance of self-care for entrepreneurs. Running a business with 150 employees can be incredibly stressful. Jared and I bonded over our commitment to physical and mental well-being, frequenting Blake Street House, a gym where we engage in cardio, strength training, heat therapy, and cold plunges. These practices profoundly impact mental clarity, energy levels, and overall well-being. Jared emphasized the need to prioritize sleep, exercise, and a healthy diet to manage stress and make sound decisions. He believes that taking care of himself makes him a better leader, enhancing his ability to navigate the complexities of running a successful business. See more about my discussion with Jared Smith over on our website…

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Navigating Supply Chain Risk in a Globalized World 22:15

منذ 29 weeks22:15

22:15

In a rapidly changing global landscape, managing supply chain risk is crucial. This article explores risk mitigation strategies such as diversification, reshoring, and nearshoring, and examines the impact of legislation and technology on supply chain management. Diversification: The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the vulnerabilities associated with concentrated supply chains. Companies heavily reliant on Chinese manufacturing faced severe disruptions when China imposed strict lockdown measures. Samsung’s strategy of diversifying its smartphone production beyond China allowed it to manage these disruptions better than competitors like Apple, which depended more heavily on Chinese manufacturing. This case highlights the strategic advantage of a diversified supply chain in reducing risk and maintaining supply continuity during unexpected crises. Reshoring and Nearshoring: Diversifying production across multiple countries helps mitigate risk but introduces complexities such as expertise, raw material availability, infrastructure, and distribution costs. Reshoring, bringing production back to the U.S., offers benefits like reduced transportation costs and quicker market response but can increase production expenses. Nearshoring, relocating production to nearby countries like Mexico or Canada, balances risk and cost. The best approach often involves a portfolio strategy, strategically spreading production across various countries to reduce exposure to volatility and risk, similar to diversifying an investment portfolio. Legislative Landscape: The U.S. government is increasingly focused on strengthening domestic manufacturing and enhancing supply chain resilience. Numerous bills are being proposed to incentivize reshoring and nearshoring. Some legislation aims to identify critical supply chain vulnerabilities, while others offer financial incentives such as tax breaks and funding for relocation and workforce development. However, the evolving nature of these regulations can be challenging for businesses to navigate. The effectiveness of some measures remains uncertain, and the volume of legislation can make it difficult to stay informed and compliant. Holistic Approach: Managing supply chain risk effectively requires a comprehensive approach that goes beyond merely relocating production or distribution facilities. Key considerations include: Physical Flow: Understanding how the movement of products and materials will be affected by changes in production locations. Information Flow: Managing how information flows within the supply chain and identifying key decision-makers. Collaboration: Facilitating collaboration with new partners in different countries. Working Capital Management: Managing cash flow and working capital across borders. Synchronization: Ensuring that supply and demand are balanced across a geographically dispersed network. Neglecting these factors can undermine the benefits of diversification, reshoring, or nearshoring efforts. Technology’s Role: Emerging technologies are increasingly crucial in managing supply chain risk. Automation, robotics, artificial intelligence, computer vision, and RFID technology are being integrated into production and distribution systems. These advancements can significantly enhance efficiency, reduce errors, and provide greater visibility and control over complex global supply chains. Conclusion: In today’s interconnected world, managing supply chain risk demands a strategic and adaptable approach. Diversification, reshoring, and nearshoring offer valuable solutions but come with their own complexities and costs. Staying informed about legislative developments and leveraging technological advancements are vital for businesses aiming to build resilient and responsive supply chains capable of navigating future disruptions effectively.…

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Walmart's Winning Formula: Adapting to Thrive in the Modern Retail Landscape 27:55

منذ 30 weeks27:55

27:55

This podcast episode dissects Walmart's enduring success, drawing on over 30 years of experience with the company. It begins by recommending Sam Walton's autobiography, Made in America , to understand Walmart's origins and principles. Walmart stands out for its agility, adapting to its massive scale with a consistent purpose: "to help people save money and live better." Walmart's strategy today is a "people-led, tech-powered, omni-channel retailer." Each element of this strategy is explored, highlighting Walmart's investments and initiatives: Investing in People : Walmart's commitment to associates is clear with a 30% increase in hourly wages over five years and investments in education through the "Live Better U" program. The company also supports associate stock purchases, aligning their financial success with Walmart's. Harnessing Technology : Walmart embraces cutting-edge tech, such as the "Shop with Friends" virtual fitting room, and invests in automation, robotics, and AI to enhance supply chain efficiency. Omni-Channel Experience : Achieving omni-channel success involves integrating processes and technology across all sales channels. Walmart's "buy online, pick up in store" model proved essential during the pandemic, showcasing its forward-thinking approach. Reaping the Rewards : Walmart's strategy is reflected in its financial performance, with a 6% growth in net sales to $642 billion in fiscal year 2024, surpassing $100 billion in e-commerce sales. Operating income grew 32% year-over-year, and returns increased by 200 basis points. Beyond Core Retail : Walmart's vision extends into digital ventures like its retail media network, selling advertising across its digital and physical platforms. In 2024, advertising sales reached $3.4 billion, a 28% increase from the previous year, while membership income grew 20% year-over-year. The episode concludes by emphasizing the importance of aligning investments with a company’s purpose and strategy. Walmart exemplifies this alignment by investing in people, technology, and omni-channel capabilities, contrasting with companies that lack a clear purpose or fail to invest accordingly. This analysis offers insights for businesses of all sizes. Embracing a clear purpose, adapting strategies to market demands, and aligning investments with those strategies can drive success in today's dynamic marketplace.…

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Revolutionizing Urban Mobility: The Genesis of LockStop 49:37

منذ 31 weeks49:37

49:37

I'd like to share the inspiring story of LockStop, a startup founded by Clayton Woodruff and Mike Burton, who are both alumni of the executive MBA program at the Walton College. Their venture stands as a testament to the power of innovative thinking in solving everyday problems — in this case, enhancing urban mobility by simplifying bike security. The Problem and the Innovative Solution Imagine riding your bike to a location without worrying about the security of your bicycle or the hassle of carrying a heavy lock. This vision is what drove Clayton and Mike to create LockStop, a company that integrates locking mechanisms directly into existing urban infrastructure, such as bike racks. This system not only eliminates the need for cyclists to carry locks but also provides enhanced security features through a connected app that alerts users to any tampering. Their prototype, which is simple yet robust, retrofits to existing bike racks and operates via a QR code scanned by the user’s smartphone. This integration of digital technology into physical security represents a leap forward in making cycling a more appealing option for urban transportation. Entrepreneurial Journey and Development The inception of LockStop was during their MBA program, where the duo took a class called New Venture Development. This educational environment provided the fertile ground for their idea to germinate. Mike's personal experience of having his bike stolen as a child, combined with a moment of realization at a farmer’s market where he had forgotten his bike lock, seeded the initial concept. Their journey from idea to prototype involved multiple iterations — from a rudimentary model built from an electric box to sophisticated designs aided by 3D printing and collaboration with a prototype lab. This iterative development process was crucial, as each stage incorporated feedback from various stakeholders, including potential users and city officials. Community and Environmental Impact LockStop isn’t just about preventing bike theft; it’s also about promoting a healthier, more environmentally friendly urban lifestyle. By reducing the barriers to cycling, such as theft and the inconvenience of locks, Clayton and Mike envision a future where more urban trips are made by bike, thus reducing carbon emissions and traffic congestion while promoting physical health. Their system could serve as a model for cities looking to increase cycling rates among residents, as it promises to make biking a more secure and convenient mode of transportation. The potential for collecting data on cycling routes and habits could also aid urban planners in creating more bike-friendly infrastructures. Challenges and Future Directions Despite the clear benefits, introducing a new system like LockStop comes with challenges, particularly around adoption and integration into existing urban infrastructures. Convincing municipalities and other stakeholders to adopt this new system involves demonstrating not only its effectiveness but also its ease of installation and maintenance. Looking ahead, the potential for scaling up LockStop is vast. The technology could be integrated into smart city projects and could attract interest from larger security or outdoor equipment companies looking for innovative urban solutions. Conclusion LockStop exemplifies how a simple yet powerful idea can evolve into a potential market disruptor, influencing urban mobility patterns and contributing to the creation of healthier cities. It also highlights the importance of practical education and entrepreneurial spirit in bringing such ideas to fruition. For anyone passionate about innovation, urban planning, or cycling, LockStop's journey from a class project to a promising startup underscores the limitless possibilities that can emerge from addressing everyday challenges with innovative solutions.…

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Bridging Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Insights from a Conversation with Omid Moghadam 47:09

منذ 32 weeks47:09

47:09

In our latest episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Omid Moghadam, a seasoned innovator and entrepreneur whose career has spanned impressive stints at major companies like Eastman Kodak and Intel, and who holds over 40 patents. Omid's journey is particularly fascinating due to his involvement in spawning companies directly from within Intel—a testament to his unique blend of creativity and strategic execution within corporate structures. The Genesis of Innovation Omid shared captivating stories about his early fascination with inventions, sparked by the British TV series "Connections," which illustrated the progressive evolution of technology through historical vignettes. This early inspiration is a thread that has run through his entire career, highlighting the seamless blend of history and innovation that has fueled his professional endeavors. A Spotlight on Namida Perhaps most intriguing is Omid's current venture as CEO of Namida, a company rooted in significant breast cancer research. Namida leverages scientific discoveries to facilitate early detection of breast cancer through a direct-to-consumer product that analyzes protein biomarkers found in tears. This innovative approach addresses the critical gaps in cancer screening, particularly in remote or underserved areas, and exemplifies how technology can radically improve healthcare delivery. The Challenges of Corporate Innovation Omid and I delved into the inherent challenges of nurturing innovation within large corporations. He illustrated this with his experiences at Intel, where he initiated the development of new business ventures. He recounted the creation of healthcare IT solutions and the challenges of aligning radical innovations with corporate structures predominantly geared towards incremental improvements. His insights into the cultural and operational barriers that stifle innovation in large companies are particularly enlightening, underscoring the delicate balance required to foster transformative ideas within established entities. The Entrepreneurial Journey Transitioning from a corporate environment to launching a startup presents a unique set of challenges and rewards. Omid discussed the pivot from leveraging corporate resources to navigating the entrepreneurial landscape where capital, talent, and market fit are perpetual concerns. His journey underscores the resilience and adaptability required to succeed outside the corporate safety net. Lessons in Leadership and Innovation Through our conversation, Omid underscored a critical lesson for both corporate leaders and entrepreneurs: the importance of market fit and the ability to adapt and respond to market needs effectively. His reflections on the successes and missteps of large corporations versus nimble startups provide valuable lessons in agility, strategic thinking, and the relentless pursuit of innovation. Conclusion My discussion with Omid Moghadam on the podcast was not only a deep dive into the life of a remarkable innovator but also a broad examination of the complexities of leading and innovating in both corporate and startup environments. His journey offers profound insights for anyone interested in the intersection of technology, entrepreneurship, and leadership. For those intrigued by the nuances of innovation and the strategic foresight required to navigate both established and emerging markets, this episode is a compelling exploration. Remember, the drive towards innovation isn't just about creating new products; it's about reshaping industries and improving lives through thoughtful, innovative solutions.…

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