Gaule's Question Time

Andrew

Interviews with leading executives who are driving Innovation, Corporate Venturing and Strategic Change by Andrew Gaule.

  • 28 minutes 9 seconds
    Episode 154: China in the New World, AI, Supply Chains and Global Strategy with Dr Edward Tse

    This interview brings together two long-time observers of China’s technological transformation, Andrew Gaule ( https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-gaule-aimava? ) and Dr Edward Tse ( https://www.linkedin.com/in/edward-tse-8a951916? ), to explore how China has rapidly moved from a manufacturing base to a global centre of AI, robotics, digital payments and supply-chain innovation. 

    Discussing "China in the New World: Why global companies must put China at the core of their global plans" Edward's new book available on Amazon  https://amzn.eu/d/2c4UNn0 

    See more information below....

    You join an AI Academy program see Aimava Eventbrite. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/aimava-global-advisory-firm-11938296163
    To book a meeting to discuss entrepreneurship, AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min?

    You can listen to this interview as a podcast on Gaule's Question Time on Apple, Spotify, Google and many other podcast channels. https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/gaulesqt
    Subscribe for future interviews. 
    See this and other video content at Aimava Purpose to Performance Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCV9o-htFNIk9Yt7jp2XcdWw  

    Reflecting on more than three decades of advising multinational and Chinese companies, Edward explains the ideas behind his new book China in the New World, which outlines China’s resilience, its evolving economic model and why global CEOs must now put China at the core of their strategy. China’s innovation is no longer limited to foundational technologies, but increasingly driven by AI applications across manufacturing, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, consumer devices and mobility. Andrew adds perspective from his own experience building products in China, noting the unmatched speed, flexibility and scale of its supply chain ecosystems. Together they discuss why Western companies must shift from trying to replicate China’s scale to forming new forms of partnership as Chinese manufacturers and digital ecosystems globalise. They also explore the next wave of digital finance, including stablecoins, central bank digital currencies and real world asset structures, and how these may reshape global supply chains. This conversation provides critical insight for global executives navigating the next era of technology driven competition and collaboration.

    20 November 2025, 8:29 pm
  • 22 minutes 50 seconds
    Episode 153: Inside Workday Ventures: Strategic Innovation with Barbry McGann

    In this episode of Gaule's Question Time, Andrew Gaule welcomes Barbry McGann, SVP and Managing Director of Workday Ventures, for a deep dive into the strategic investment arm of enterprise SaaS giant, Workday. Barbry provides an insightful overview of how the $500M fund operates—not as a traditional VC but as an innovation accelerator, aligning startups with Workday’s core mission in HR and finance applications.

    See more information below....

    You join an AI Academy program see Aimava Eventbrite. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/aimava-global-advisory-firm-11938296163
    To book a meeting to discuss entrepreneurship, AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min?

    You can listen to this interview as a podcast on Gaule's Question Time on Apple, Spotify, Google and many other podcast channels. https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/ga...
    Subscribe for future interviews. 
    See this and other video content at Aimava Purpose to Performance Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCV9o-htFNIk9Yt7jp2XcdWw  

    Barbry explains the Ventures team’s approach to investing in AI-driven, enterprise-focused SaaS companies that complement Workday's product suite. She breaks down the rigorous investment process, from due diligence to integration support, and highlights the unique value offered through access to Workday’s partner ecosystem.

    The conversation explores how AI is transforming enterprise software and venture capital itself—from changing job roles to redefining investment strategies and performance metrics. Barbry also reflects on how Workday Ventures is adapting to shifting startup dynamics, including the disappearance of traditional Series A rounds due to rapid acquisitions.

    With a background in product leadership and strategic alignment, Barbry shares her optimistic yet grounded perspective on how AI augments human capability, reshaping the future of work. This interview offers a compelling look at corporate venturing done right, with strategic alignment, partnership, and long-term vision at its core.

    To book a meeting to discuss entrepreneurship, AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min?

    3 November 2025, 6:51 am
  • 40 minutes 16 seconds
    Episode 152: AI’s Exponential Moment, China’s Rise & What Comes Next – Azeem Azhar of Exponential View

    In this captivating episode of Gaule’s Question Time, Andrew Gaule sits down with Azeem Azhar (https://www.azeemazhar.com ) technologist, investor, and creator of Exponential View—to unpack the seismic shifts being driven by artificial intelligence, clean energy, and exponential technologies. Azeem reflects on three decades in the tech industry and the patterns he has observed around innovation, economic change, and institutional adaptation.

    More information below..
    To book a meeting to discuss entrepreneurship, AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min?

    You can listen to this interview as a podcast on Gaule's Question Time on Apple, Spotify, Google and many other podcast channels. https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/gaulesqt
    Subscribe for future interviews. 
    See this and other video content at Aimava Purpose to Performance Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@P2PfromAimava

    Links to content mentioned in the Podcast
    Exponential View by Azeem Azhar https://www.exponentialview.co
    Exponential Age Book https://amzn.eu/d/gCcOwRI
    Is AI a Bubble? https://www.exponentialview.co/p/is-ai-a-bubble
    China Perspective by Andrew and Aimava with High Speed Train and Electric Vehicle insights from 7 years and more ago - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1uoHtDaXwmVP_bPDCeSB3ucFETNd-L5O&si=XFpgEIz7jddePh5Z 

    Together, Andrew and Azeem explore the parallels between AI’s current trajectory and past transformative moments like the internet and electricity, contemplating whether we’ve reached the “iPhone moment” for AI—or whether that leap is still on the horizon. They delve into how organizations are (and aren’t) keeping pace, why general purpose technologies are different this time, and what this means for productivity, education, and the future of jobs.
    The conversation also turns global, highlighting China’s rapid adoption of electric vehicles, AI, and open-source collaboration, contrasted with Western market hesitations. They conclude with a candid discussion on whether we’re heading for an AI investment bubble—or a productivity boom. This episode offers timely and thought-provoking insights for anyone interested in the future of business, technology, and society.

    Q&A Summaries
    1. Can business and society keep up with exponential change?
    Azeem: Businesses move faster than governments, but adapting fully still takes time. While technologies like AI spread rapidly, institutions, education, and norms lag, creating an adaptation gap.
    2. When will AI have its 'iPhone moment'?
    Azeem: We're not there yet. GPT tools are like Ferraris—powerful but hard to use well. Full AI integration into everyday life and business could happen within 3–5 years for early adopters.
    3. How will AI affect jobs and young graduates?
    Azeem: Graduate hiring is already slowing, partly due to AI, but also economic uncertainty. The key for young people is developing judgment, metacognition, and the ability to work with AI tools effectively.
    4. Is an AI bubble coming?
    Azeem: Possibly. He outlines 5 markers to watch: economic strain, industry stress, revenue growth, valuation misalignment, and funding quality. Right now, indicators suggest potential for a future bust—but not imminently.
    5. What role is China playing in the AI and tech race?
    Azeem: China is deploying AI rapidly and taking a pragmatic, open-source approach. Their advancements in EVs and infrastructure outpace the West. The West underestimates China's strategic capabilities.
    6. How should leaders use AI today?
    Azeem: Leaders should experiment and train themselves. Roleplaying with Claude, GPT, or HeyGen avatars can help develop customer engagement and leadership skills in a rapidly changing environment.

    To book a meeting to discuss with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min?

    20 October 2025, 7:00 am
  • 25 minutes 8 seconds
    Episode 151: Investor Insights & Startup Resilience with Spacebands Founders

    In this episode of Gaule’s Question Time, Andrew  sits down with Harry Kimberly-Bowen ( https://www.linkedin.com/in/harrykimberley-bowen/ ) and Ronan Finnegan (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronanfinnegan/ ) , co-founders of Spacebands https://www.spacebands.com —a health and safety wearable technology startup born during the COVID-19 pandemic. What began as a simple proximity alert device has since evolved into a cutting-edge, multi-sensor wearable designed for industries like construction, manufacturing, and logistics. Harry and Ronan share their candid journey from university side-hustles and tech startups to scaling a hardware business during one of the most disruptive periods in recent history.

    See more information below.

    You join an AI Academy program see Aimava Eventbrite. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/aimava...
    To book a meeting to discuss entrepreneurship, AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min?

    You can listen to this interview as a podcast on Gaule's Question Time on Apple, Spotify, Google and many other podcast channels. https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/gaulesqt
    Subscribe for future interviews. 
    See this and other video content at Aimava Purpose to Performance Channel  - https://www.youtube.com/@P2PfromAimava

    Bootstrapped from a kitchen table and grown through customer insight and grit, Spacebands’ founders talk openly about the challenges of hardware development, the transition from UK to Asian manufacturing, and the rollercoaster of raising capital—from angel investors to institutional seed rounds. Their story reflects resilience, creativity, and a relentless pursuit to solve real-world problems in the workplace. If you're a founder, investor, or simply curious about what it takes to build a tech startup from scratch—this is a must-listen.

    Q&A Summaries
    What is Spacebands and how did it start?
    A proximity alert wearable developed during the pandemic to prevent COVID transmission, later evolved into a comprehensive health & safety device through customer feedback.

    How did you pivot post-COVID?
    They consulted existing users—primarily heads of health & safety—to identify new industry needs, such as forklift proximity alerts, hand-arm vibration, and noise monitoring.

    What were the challenges in developing new hardware?
    The second-gen product was far more complex with 10+ sensors, requiring multi-year development, multiple prototypes, and a complete shift from UK to Asian manufacturing.

    What lessons were learned in working with development agencies?
    They initially struggled with an under-resourced UK agency and later succeeded by finding a trusted Asian manufacturer through network referrals.

    What was their fundraising journey like?
    Started with angels using LinkedIn automation, raised a £750k pre-seed, and are now closing a seed round. They've learned how to improve their pitch and attract higher conversion.

    Why do early-stage startups need traction, not just ideas?
    Investors need to see real-world validation, not just pitch decks. Their ability to show working products and early sales was key to gaining investment and credibility.

    To book a meeting to discuss entrepreneurship, AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min?

    10 October 2025, 8:00 am
  • 27 minutes 16 seconds
    Episode 150: Leadership in the Age of GPTs: Strategy, Ethics, and Opportunity - Michael Davies MIT

    In this episode of Gaule’s Question Time, host Andrew Gaule (https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-gaule-aimava/) is joined by Michael Davies (linkedin.com/in/michaelamdavies) strategy consultant, MIT lecturer, and founder of Endeavour Partners, to unpack the seismic shift AI is driving across industries. With over 20 years of experience at the intersection of technology and business, Michael outlines why we're at a historic inflection point akin to the advent of the internet. 

    See more information below.

    You join an AI Academy program see Aimava Eventbrite. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/aimava-global-advisory-firm-11938296163
    To book a meeting to discuss entrepreneurship, AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min?

    You can listen to this interview as a podcast on Gaule's Question Time on Apple, Spotify, Google and many other podcast channels. https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/gaulesqt
    Subscribe for future interviews. 
    See this and other video content at Aimava Purpose to Performance Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@P2PfromAimava

    The discussion centers on how leaders must not only adopt AI but do so humanely, ethically, and strategically. Davies emphasizes the critical need for executives to "get hands on" with generative tools like GPTs, understand their limitations, and align AI deployment with business strategy. Together, they examine the risks of AI hallucinations, the ethical responsibility of leadership, and why regulatory inertia can't be an excuse for inaction. From legal automation to healthcare triage, the conversation spans real-world use cases and explores how middle management, knowledge workers, and core business processes will be transformed. Michael and Andrew make a compelling case for rethinking not just technology implementation, but entire business models. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating AI's disruptive wave and seeking practical leadership frameworks in this rapidly evolving landscape.

    Top 6 Questions & Summaries of Answers
    What is meant by the “humane adoption” of AI?
    Michael emphasizes the need for responsible AI use that accounts for ethics, transparency, and human impact—especially as AI decisions increasingly affect areas like healthcare and finance.
    What should executives be doing now with AI?
    They must engage directly with the tools to understand their capabilities, build strategic clarity, and restructure processes accordingly. Davies insists hands-on experimentation is non-negotiable.
    Will AI fundamentally change business models?
    Yes. Michael shares real-world examples (e.g., law firms automating document reviews) that show how AI isn’t just speeding up old processes—it’s reshaping them entirely.
    How do leaders balance short-term wins with long-term ethical responsibility?
    Leadership must be both strategic and supportive, candid about disruption while ensuring workers are treated ethically during transitions to AI-augmented workflows.
    Can we wait for regulation before acting?
    No. Regulation won’t keep pace. Organizations must adopt a proactive and principled approach, leveraging what’s already known to implement responsible AI now.
    Are you optimistic about AI’s future?
    Michael is optimistic long-term due to technology’s empowering potential and humanity’s ability to shape its direction. He’s cautious short-term due to misuse and rapid change.

    22 September 2025, 3:56 pm
  • 22 minutes 44 seconds
    Episode 149: Unlocking Grant Success: How AI is Transforming the Process with Mark Taylor of Grant Hero

    In this insightful episode of Gaule’s Question Time, host Andrew Gaule (https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-gaule-aimava/) sits down with Mark Taylor (https://www.linkedin.com/in/markyt/), co-founder of Grant Hero, an AI-driven platform aimed at revolutionising the grant application process. Mark shares his journey from product management into the world of R&D funding, including his pivotal time at Innovate UK where he first got under the hood of government-backed innovation grants.

    See more information below.

    You join an AI Academy program see Aimava Eventbrite. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/aimava-global-advisory-firm-11938296163
    To book a meeting to discuss entrepreneurship, AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min?

    You can listen to this interview as a podcast on Gaule's Question Time on Apple, Spotify, Google and many other podcast channels. https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/gaulesqt
    Subscribe for future interviews. 
    See this and other video content at Aimava Purpose to Performance Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@P2PfromAimava

    The conversation dives deep into the complexities of navigating grants in the UK, highlighting the challenges startups face—from discovering the right competitions to completing time-intensive applications. Mark explains how Grant Hero is designed to simplify this workflow using AI, allowing applicants to validate eligibility, draft responses, and receive intelligent support throughout the process.
    The duo also explores the broader implications of AI in investment, the evolving role of Innovate UK under new leadership, and how hybrid human-AI collaboration could shape the future of innovation funding. For founders, researchers, and investors alike, this episode provides a compelling look at how technology can unlock opportunities and transform the way we support high-risk, high-reward ventures in the UK’s innovation ecosystem.

    Q&A Summaries
    Q: What is the current state of the Innovate UK grant landscape?
    A: Despite a temporary lull, funding is increasing—rising from £20B to £22B for R&D and Innovate UK’s own budget reaching £1.2B. A new 10-year industrial strategy focuses on digital, AI, healthcare, and net zero.
    Q: What makes a strong grant application?
    A: Alignment with competition scope and innovation in high-risk areas are key. Innovate UK favors ventures that traditional investors might avoid due to risk.
    Q: How can AI help with grant applications?
    A: AI can quickly assess eligibility, draft responses, and help scope proposals. Grant Hero, for example, offers GPT tools to support and validate applications in real-time.
    Q: What value do webinars and briefings offer applicants?
    A: They clarify grant criteria and language, improving the chances of staying within scope. Tools like Eligibility GPT aim to distill this information further.
    Q: What is Grant Hero and how does it work?
    A: Grant Hero helps users accelerate the writing and review process for Innovate UK grants, using AI to understand scope, streamline content creation, and match opportunities.
    Q: Will AI replace human grant consultants?
    A: Not entirely. AI excels in drafting and research, but human experts still add strategic, domain-specific value. A hybrid model is ideal.

    1 September 2025, 7:00 am
  • 27 minutes 20 seconds
    Episode 148: Reimagining Work and AI: A Conversation with Erik Schwartz

    In this insightful episode of Gaule’s Question Time, Andrew Gaule (linkedin.com/in/andrew-gaule-aimava) sits down with Erik Schwartz (https://www.linkedin.com/in/eschwaa/ ), a veteran in enterprise search and AI systems, to explore the transformative power of generative AI and its implications across industries. The conversation kicks off with Erik’s professional journey, from digitizing documents in the 90s to building knowledge discovery platforms at Comcast and Elsevier, and now running his consultancy.

    See more information below.
    You join an AI Academy program see Aimava Eventbrite. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/aimava-global-advisory-firm-11938296163
    To book a meeting to discuss entrepreneurship, AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min?

    You can listen to this interview as a podcast on Gaule's Question Time on Apple, Spotify, Google and many other podcast channels. https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/gaulesqt
    Subscribe for future interviews. 
    See this and other video content at Aimava Purpose to Performance Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@P2PfromAimava

    The discussion deepens around the moment GPT launched, which Erik compares to a seismic shift in the industry—making previously unreadable content accessible and actionable. Together, they reflect on parallels between the AI boom and the .com era, emphasizing that we're still in the early stages—akin to receiving CD-ROMs in the mail.
    Strategically, Erik and Andrew discuss how AI is not just a tool but a catalyst for rethinking business models, workflow design, performance metrics, and employee roles. From agents to autonomous platforms, Erik shares a compelling vision for a future where businesses operate more flexibly and individuals collaborate just-in-time. They close with optimism, seeing AI as a productivity enhancer that frees humans for more meaningful work and deeper human connections, rather than something to fear.

    19 August 2025, 3:59 pm
  • 20 minutes 55 seconds
    Episode 147: Turning Brewery Waste into Eco-Leather : Brett Cotten Arda Biomaterials

    In this episode of "Gaule’s Question Time," Andrew Gaule (linkedin.com/in/andrew-gaule-aimava) discusses with Brett Cotten (https://www.linkedin.com/in/brett-a-cotten/), co-founder and CEO of Arda Biomaterials (https://arda.bio), to explore a revolutionary approach to sustainable manufacturing. Arda transforms brewery waste—specifically spent grain—into high-performance, leather-like materials without relying on plastics or animal products. Brett, who began his journey in biochemistry and entrepreneurship at Penn State and later Cambridge, shares how his career evolved from biotech food startups to founding Arda with co-founder TJ, an Oxford-trained chemist.
    See more information below.

    You join an AI Academy program see Aimava Eventbrite. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/aimava-global-advisory-firm-11938296163
    To book a meeting to discuss entrepreneurship, AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min?

    You can listen to this interview as a podcast on Gaule's Question Time on Apple, Spotify, Google and many other podcast channels. https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/gaulesqt
    Subscribe for future interviews.
    See this and other video content at Aimava Purpose to Performance Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@P2PfromAimava

    Arda Biomaterials has built a team blending scientific expertise and design thinking, enabling Arda to develop scalable, environmentally-friendly alternatives to traditional leather. Throughout the discussion, Brett explains the chemistry behind Arda’s materials, their performance benchmarks, and the deep supply chain innovation that sets them apart. He also highlights their community-oriented investor base and partnerships with luxury brands and local designers.

    Listeners will gain insight into how Arda is tackling sustainability with a local-first, high-tech, circular economy mindset—proving that even a pint of beer can start a revolution in material science.

    Using the 5Ps Strategic Framework from Andrew Gaule's book Purpose to Performance they discussed Arda

    🧭 Purpose

    Arda aims to replace animal and plastic materials with sustainable alternatives made from brewery waste, reducing environmental impact and ethical concerns.

    ⚗️ Process

    They extract plant proteins from spent grain to create leather-like materials using existing equipment, enabling fast, scalable, and eco-friendly production.

    👥 People

    Co-founders Brett and TJ built a strong, interdisciplinary team of scientists, designers, and engineers focused on innovation and sustainability.

    🤝 Partners

    Supported by investors like Clean Growth Fund and collaborators from luxury brands to local designers, Arda fosters a community-driven development model.

    📈 Performance

    Their material has 97% lower CO₂ emissions than animal leather, is scalable, and meets early product performance standards for fashion and accessories.



    29 May 2025, 7:48 am
  • 21 minutes 16 seconds
    Episode 146: The Power of Purpose and Process in AI Transformation. Jonathan Mast AI Podcast

    In this episode of Gaule’s Question Time, Andrew Gaule (linkedin.com/in/andrew-gaule-aimava) speaks with AI coach and mentor Jonathan Mast (linkedin.com/in/jonathanjmast), who joins from Dallas, Texas. Together, they explore how AI is reshaping business operations and employee empowerment. Jonathan shares his approach to integrating AI: focusing on saving time, increasing profits, and adding value to customer experiences. Using Andrew's "Five P’s" framework—Purpose, Process, People, Partners, and Performance—they discuss practical steps for AI adoption, the importance of structured data, and why choosing stable AI platforms matters. Jonathan emphasizes that AI is a tool to amplify skills, not replace jobs, drawing parallels to the PC revolution. They delve into future business models enabled by AI, predicting step changes when AI merges with automation and smart devices. Their conversation underscores the need for leadership in reassuring teams, selecting reliable partners, and measuring success beyond simple efficiency gains. Jonathan’s practical insights, combined with Andrew’s strategic frameworks, provide an accessible and forward-looking guide for businesses ready to embrace AI responsibly.

    See more information below.
    You join an AI Academy program see Aimava Eventbrite. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/aimava-global-advisory-firm-11938296163
    To book a meeting to discuss entrepreneurship, AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min?

    You can listen to this interview as a podcast on Gaule's Question Time on Apple, Spotify, Google and many other podcast channels. https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/gaulesqt
    Subscribe for future interviews. 
    See this and other video content at Aimava Purpose to Performance Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@P2PfromAimava
    Questions and Answers Summaries:

    Purpose of AI in Business
    ➔ Jonathan stresses AI’s dual value: reducing team stress while delivering enhanced value to customers.
    First Steps for Implementing AI
    ➔ Start small, understand no tool is perfect, and use available platforms like Microsoft Copilot, Gemini, or ChatGPT.
    Impact of AI on Workforce Skills
    ➔ Leaders must help teams view AI as a skill amplifier, not a threat; those who embrace AI will thrive.
    Choosing AI Partners and Suppliers
    ➔ Stick with major, stable providers for better security and privacy; smaller tools carry more risk.
    Performance Metrics in AI Adoption
    ➔ Focus on time savings, quality improvements, and using prompt frameworks to get the best AI output.
    AI’s Role in Creating New Business Models
    ➔ Jonathan envisions AI marrying automation to create new industries, like smart utilities and intelligent appliances.

    29 April 2025, 8:53 am
  • 29 minutes 10 seconds
    Episode 145: Empowering Entrepreneurs: Lydia Finnegan on Goldman Sachs’ Philanthropic Mission

    In this engaging and inspiring episode of Gaule’s Question Time, Andrew Gaule (linkedin.com/in/andrew-gaule-aimava) sits down with Lydia Finnegan (https://www.linkedin.com/in/lydiafinnegan/) , Executive Director at Goldman Sachs, to explore the purpose, process, and people behind the firm’s impactful entrepreneurial initiatives. Lydia shares her journey from intern to leader, giving listeners a rare inside look at Goldman Sachs’ unique philanthropic focus — economic empowerment through entrepreneurship.

    See more information below.

    You join an AI Academy program see Aimava Eventbrite. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/aimava-global-advisory-firm-11938296163
    To book a meeting to discuss entrepreneurship, AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min?

    You can listen to this interview as a podcast on Gaule's Question Time on Apple, Spotify, Google and many other podcast channels. https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/gaulesqt
    Subscribe for future interviews. 
    See this and other video content at Aimava Purpose to Performance Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@P2PfromAimava

    The episode centres around two Goldman Sachs flagship programs: 10,000 Small Businesses, which delivers high-impact education for growth-stage companies in the UK, US, and France; and 10,000 Women, a global initiative aimed at empowering female entrepreneurs with both business education and financial capital. Lydia outlines how these programs have collectively supported over 200,000 entrepreneurs and mobilized $3 billion in capital through partnerships with organizations like the World Bank’s IFC.

    More than just stats, Lydia discusses the transformative role of community, mentorship, and leadership — shaped by her own experience and the legacy of her entrepreneurial grandmother. The conversation spans purpose-driven partnerships, the challenges women face in accessing finance, and the importance of elevating small businesses to the center of economic growth.

    Whether you’re a founder, investor, or someone passionate about impact, this episode delivers insight, strategy, and inspiration.

    Great shout outs for people by Lydia included. 
    Asahi Pompey – Senior leader at Goldman Sachs and Lydia’s mentor within the Corporate Engagement team.
    Charlotte Keenan – Another senior executive in Goldman Sachs’ Corporate Engagement leadership team.
    Lydia’s grandmother – A formidable entrepreneur who co-founded a Formula 1 brake manufacturing business in Birmingham.
    Rana Harvey – Founder of Monster Group, an e-commerce business based in York; part of the 10,000 Small Businesses program.
    Victorine Sarr Awuah – Founder of LYVV Cosmetics (Live Cosmetics), a Ghanaian beauty brand; part of the 10,000 Women program.

    16 April 2025, 7:11 am
  • 30 minutes 11 seconds
    Episode 144: Reimagining Venture Capital with AI: Stephan Heller of Alpha Q VC

    In this compelling episode of Gaule’s Question Time, Andrew Gaule (linkedin.com/in/andrew-gaule-aimava) sits down with Stephan Heller, founder of Alpha Q Venture Capital, to explore the intersection of artificial intelligence and venture investing. Stephan offers a unique perspective shaped by over 15 years as a tech founder and investor. 
    See more information below.

    You join an AI Academy program see Aimava Eventbrite. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/aimava-global-advisory-firm-11938296163
    To book a meeting to discuss entrepreneurship, AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min?

    You can listen to this interview as a podcast on Gaule's Question Time on Apple, Spotify, Google and many other podcast channels. https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/gaulesqt
    Subscribe for future interviews. 
    See this and other video content at Aimava Purpose to Performance Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@P2PfromAimava

    Stephan and Andrew unpack how AI is transforming deal sourcing, startup selection, and portfolio management. Stephan outlines the four layers of AI in investment—from foundational infrastructure to applications—and highlights the exciting potential of niche AI solutions in overlooked markets. The conversation also covers the rapid evolution of LLMs, the shift towards value-based pricing models, and the rising need for consultative sales approaches in AI products.

    Andrew and Stephan debate the balance between automation and human intuition in early-stage investing, and how AI can augment rather than replace key decision-making. They touch on how larger corporates might leverage AI to scale early-stage investments and the importance of understanding data sovereignty and infrastructure. With practical insights, candid reflections, and a forward-thinking mindset, this conversation is a must-listen for VCs, founders, and tech leaders navigating AI's disruptive potential in the financial and startup ecosystems.

    What is Alpha Q VC and how is it structured?
    Stephan explains Alpha Q operates as an Evergreen fund investing in other VC funds. With over 400 startups across 23 funds, their structure supports continuous investment and diversification.

    How is AI transforming venture capital?
    AI is accelerating deal flow analysis, application development, and niche problem-solving. Stephan emphasizes a 4-layer AI model: infrastructure, LLMs, APIs, and applications.

    What challenges does AI solve in startup selection?
    AI helps find “the needle in the haystack” by filtering massive volumes of startups, especially those overlooked due to unconscious bias or lack of branding.

    How should AI tools be priced in venture environments?
    Traditional user-based SaaS pricing fails with AI tools. Stephan advocates for value-based pricing due to the real compute costs and the high value they generate.

    Can AI replace human judgment in investing?
    No—venture still relies on trust and relationships. AI can aid analysis and sourcing, but final decisions require human insight and credibility.

    What are the biggest barriers to AI adoption in VC?
    Key issues include interface challenges, data sovereignty concerns, lack of process integration, and the overwhelming pace of tech evolution.

    To book a meeting to discuss entrepreneurship, AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min?

    28 March 2025, 3:14 pm
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