Surviving the Startup Rapids—Tales of Triumph and Trials

Designing Successful Startups

Bio

David Urbanic has been fortunate to ride waves of tech innovation from developer tools and database systems to avatars and AI. He has worked in the trenches and the C-Suite and helped grow 10 startups, 4 of which he co-founded – the latest focused on conversational, symbolic, and transactional AI. Along the way he built the first customer service team at Netflix, launched some of the earliest VR/AR authoring tools, wrote imaging systems licensed to NASA and the Smithsonian, sold software in over 100 countries, and contributed to frameworks for AI ethics, governance, and policy. He is now CEO of Collectible Intelligence, reinventing trading markets with a platform that improves performance, collaboration, and trust by applying advanced imaging, AR, and AI.

Intro

David Urbanek joins Jothy Rosenberg to share his extensive journey through the tech industry, highlighting his experiences with startups and his passion for innovation, particularly in AI. Throughout the conversation, David emphasizes the importance of taking care of team members to ensure a strong product and customer satisfaction. The discussion delves into memorable moments from their shared history at Borland, including the unique culture that fostered loyalty and collaboration among team members. David also reflects on the challenges he faced and how grit, shaped by his upbringing and the people around him, has been crucial to his success. The episode ultimately reveals the transformative power of teamwork, resilience, and the continuous drive for improvement in the fast-paced world of technology.

Story

David Urbanic, a seasoned tech entrepreneur and innovator, shares his extensive journey through the world of technology and startups with host Jothy Rosenberg. The conversation begins with Urbanic's deep-rooted experience in various tech sectors, including his pivotal role in launching customer service at Netflix and developing early VR and AR tools. Urbanic's narrative is rich with anecdotes that reflect on the evolution of technology and the lessons learned from his roles across multiple startups, including his current venture, Collectible Intelligence. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration, trust, and innovation in creating successful teams, illustrating how a supportive environment can lead to exceptional product development and customer satisfaction.

The discussion takes an engaging turn as Urbanic recounts his unique experiences, such as the challenges he faced while presenting at high-stakes events, including moments of technological failure that tested his resilience. He reflects on the significance of creating a culture of open communication and teamwork, which he believes is essential for any organization to thrive. Urbanic's insights into customer-centric approaches and the need for ethical considerations in tech development highlight the responsibility that innovators carry in shaping the future of the industry. His stories serve as invaluable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs navigating the complexities of the tech landscape today.

Takeaways

• David Urbanic has a rich history in technology, contributing to startups and innovations in AI.
• The importance of teamwork and communication is emphasized through personal experiences in startups.
• David's journey from tech support at Borland to founding multiple startups showcases adaptability.
• Building strong relationships with customers and colleagues is crucial for successful product development.
• David's insights on AI highlight its potential to democratize access to technology and data.
• Humor and resilience in challenging situations can foster a positive work environment.