217: This Startup Got Acquired for $13M (And You’ve Never Heard of It)

In this episode, the Alex discusses the journey of building and selling NodeApp an influencer marketing platform with Armin and Mackenzie. They explore the evolution of influencer marketing, user acquisition strategies, and the complexities of the acquisition process. The conversation also touches on the financial implications of acquisitions, the importance of investor relationships, and the impact of DEI programs in entrepreneurship. Additionally, they reflect on the current fundraising landscape and the effects of tariffs on business. The conversation delves into the intricate relationship between US monetary policy and its effects on the Canadian economy, exploring the implications of quantitative easing and tariffs. The speakers discuss the geopolitical dynamics between China and America, particularly in the context of AI competition and the influence of propaganda on public perception. They also touch on the luxury market's production transparency and the complexities of international trade logistics. In this conversation, the speakers explore the transformative impact of AI on society, work, and intellectual property. They discuss the emergence of agentic AI, which will take over various tasks, leading to a significant shift in the workforce. The conversation also touches on the global implications of AI development, particularly in relation to China and the U.S., and the evolving nature of intellectual property in an AI-driven world. Finally, they share practical AI tools and prompts that can enhance productivity and creativity in everyday tasks.Chapters:00:00 The Journey from Inception to Acquisition02:52 The Evolution of Influencer Marketing05:59 Building Node: The Early Days09:05 User Acquisition Strategies and Growth12:00 Navigating the Acquisition Process14:47 Financial Implications of Acquisition17:47 Investor Relationships and Their Impact20:53 The Role of DEI Programs in Entrepreneurship23:56 Fundraising in Today's Market27:03 The Impact of Tariffs on Business30:11 Reflections on Future Acquisitions40:21 Impact of US Monetary Policy on Canada43:06 Understanding Quantitative Easing46:02 The Role of Tariffs in Economic Strategy47:30 Geopolitical Dynamics: China vs. America49:25 AI and Technological Competition51:40 The Influence of Propaganda on Perception01:06:28 Luxury Market and Production Transparency01:11:29 The Rise of Agentic AI01:14:55 The Future of Work and AI01:17:13 AI and the Global Landscape01:21:08 Intellectual Property in the Age of AI01:30:18 Practical AI Tools for Everyday Use