Summary

In this episode, Amir Abdelazim and Alex Siletsky explore how Palmer Luckey, the visionary behind Oculus VR and Anduril Industries, is transforming science fiction into reality. They discuss the evolution of AI-powered defense systems, the engineering mindset behind Anduril’s innovations, and the moral implications of merging technology with national security.

The conversation also unpacks Amazon Web Services’ latest outage and what it reveals about automation’s limits, NVIDIA’s plan to build orbital data centers powered by solar energy, and the Dutch government’s controversial seizure of a Chinese chipmaker affecting Europe’s auto industry.

Through these stories, Amir and Alex highlight a single theme: the future belongs to those who innovate, automate wisely, and build with purpose.

• Palmer Luckey is redefining modern defense with AI-driven systems through Anduril Industries.

• Building science-fiction-level technology requires both vision and ethical grounding.

• The AWS outage exposed the risks of over-automation in critical infrastructure.

• NVIDIA’s orbital data-center project could reshape how we think about cloud computing and sustainability.

• Europe’s seizure of Chinese chip assets shows how fragile global tech supply chains remain.

• Real innovation comes from combining open experimentation with practical engineering.

• Space-based infrastructure is the next frontier for green, high-speed data processing.

• Strong nations invest in creators and engineers—not just regulations.

• Defense technology can be ethical when built for protection, not aggression.

• Visionary founders like Luckey show why creativity and courage still drive the tech frontier.

• “If you’re strong, no one can take your right.”

• “Don’t tell them—show them.”

• “Science fiction is just tomorrow’s engineering manual.”

• “Automation without understanding is just chaos at scale.”

  
  

  
  

Chapters:

00:00 Intro – Welcome to The TrickCast00:51 This Week’s Topics: AWS, Palmer Luckey, Space Data & Chip Seizures02:22 The ‘Dumb’ Reason for the AWS Outage03:56 How a DNS Error Deleted the Internet’s Address Book09:01 Palmer Luckey: From Oculus to Defense Disruptor11:22 His Playbook: “Make Science Fiction Come True”14:05 The Ethics of AI-Powered Defense Tech19:44 Why Taxpayers Overpay for Outdated Military Hardware22:17 Orbital Data Centers in Space – NVIDIA’s Star Cloud23:41 Lasers and Starlink: Speed-of-Light Data Transfer29:03 Dutch Gov Seizes Chinese Chipmaker Nexperia30:31 How the Move Backfired on Volkswagen and Europe’s Supply Chain33:44 Closing Thoughts: Make an Impact & Invest in STEM35:24 Wrap Up

🎙️ If you’re a founder, technologist, or futurist, this episode breaks down the signals behind the headlines - helping you position your company for what’s next.

👉 Subscribe for more bold conversations on tech rivalries, power plays, and the hidden “tricks” behind business success.

🔔 Stay tuned for more episodes of The TrickCast: Boardroom Scholars & Magicians - where past rivalries and today’s tech wars become startup lessons you can use.

Summary

In this episode, Amir Abdelazim and Alex Siletsky discuss the recent acquisition of Arduino by Qualcomm and Walmart's innovative deployment of battery-free sensors.

They explore the implications of these developments for the tech landscape, emphasizing the importance of open source technology, the future of IoT, and the role of edge cloud in real-time decision-making.

The conversation highlights how these advancements can democratize technology and improve efficiency in various sectors, particularly in retail and telecommunications.

Takeaways

• Qualcomm's acquisition of Arduino aims to enhance visibility and integration of technology.
• Arduino has a strong community of 33 million users focused on IoT and edge technology.
• The future of technology lies in sensors and wearables, moving beyond traditional mobile devices.
• Walmart's use of battery-free sensors represents a significant innovation in retail supply chains.
• The concept of edge cloud is crucial for real-time decision-making in AI applications.
• Open source technology fosters innovation and democratizes engineering.
• The integration of sensors into everyday objects will revolutionize data collection.
• AI needs to be close to the data source for effective decision-making.
• Walmart's strategy focuses on improving supply chain visibility and efficiency.
• The future of technology will rely on collaboration and shared standards.

Sound bites

• "Open source fosters innovation."
• "Collaboration is key in technology."
• "Solve real problems with technology."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Tech Trends and AI

01:29 Qualcomm's Acquisition of Arduino

12:16 Walmart's Battery-Free Sensors and Supply Chain Innovation

25:19 The Future of Edge Cloud and AI

🎙️ If you’re a founder, startup leader, or tech strategist, this episode breaks down the signals behind the headlines so you can better position your company for the future.

👉 Subscribe for more bold conversations on rivalries, power plays, and the hidden “tricks” behind business success.

🔔 Stay tuned for more episodes of The TrickCast: Boardroom Scholars & Magicians - where past rivalries and today’s tech wars become startup lessons you can use.

Summary

In this conversation, Alex and Amir explore the growing tension between the EU Data Act and U.S. tech interests, including Trump’s pushback against European data regulation. They examine how government control, AI surveillance, and corporate power are shaping the future of privacy and innovation. The discussion expands to cover OpenAI’s meteoric $500B valuation, questions about AI ethics, and whether global tech regulation can keep up with the pace of innovation.

Throughout the episode, Amir and Alex unpack the implications of data sovereignty, predictive AI, and market control, offering insights for founders and tech leaders navigating a world where information, not oil, is the most valuable asset.

Takeaways

• The EU Data Act could redefine global tech sovereignty and privacy.

• Trump’s opposition signals rising tension between the U.S. and EU over data control.

• AI surveillance is expanding from schools to national security systems.

• Predictive policing raises new ethical questions about privacy and free speech.

• OpenAI’s rapid growth shows how AI has become the new superpower.

• Governments are struggling to balance innovation and regulation.

• The next economic race will center around data and AI infrastructure.

• Founders must prepare for stricter compliance and transparency requirements.

• Education and awareness are key to navigating AI-driven governance.

• Whoever controls the algorithms controls the future.

  
  

Sound Bites

• “Control should be for the outliers, not for the mainstream.”
• “AI is the new superpower - forget about tanks and missiles.”
• “Whoever owns the data, owns the future.”

Chapters

Chapters

00:00 Intro & Context

03:15 Trump vs EU Data Act – Who Controls Global Tech?

10:45 AI Surveillance & Predictive Policing Explained

18:30 OpenAI Valuation & The New AI Economy

26:40 Founder Takeaways & Predictions

🎙️ If you’re a founder, startup leader, or tech strategist, this episode breaks down the signals behind the headlines so you can better position your company for the future.

👉 Subscribe for more bold conversations on rivalries, power plays, and the hidden “tricks” behind business success.

🔔 Stay tuned for more episodes of The TrickCast: Boardroom Scholars & Magicians - where past rivalries and today’s tech wars become startup lessons you can use.

A new chapter of “The Art of Competition” - Episode 2: Netflix vs Blockbuster

How did a tiny DVD-by-mail startup destroy a $5 billion empire?

In this episode of The TrickCast, Alex Siletsky and Amir Abdelazim unpack the legendary rivalry between Netflix and Blockbuster - and the bigger lesson about innovation, timing, and killing your own cash cow before someone else does.

We cover:

• The rise of Blockbuster and its missed digital pivot 📼

• How Netflix bet everything on streaming - and won 💻

• The parallels to today’s tech wars (Starlink vs Telcos, Disney vs Prime)

• Why founders must watch customer behavior, not spreadsheets

• How data became Netflix’s real weapon - and what AI means for the next wave

  
  

🎙️ If you’re a founder or startup leader, this conversation shows how to stay ahead of disruption instead of becoming its victim.

👉 Subscribe for more bold rivalries, tech wars & startup lessons.
🔔 Don’t miss future episodes of The TrickCast – Boardroom Scholars & Magicians where past rivalries meet today’s tech wars.

Summary

In this conversation, Alex and Amir discuss various topics related to technology, cybersecurity, and recent industry events. They delve into the implications of recent cyber attacks, the types of attacks that exist, and the importance of crisis management in the face of such threats. The discussion also touches on the emerging threat of drone attacks, the recent product launch by Meta, and the strategic partnerships forming within the tech industry. Throughout the conversation, Amir shares insights on the current state of cybersecurity and the need for proactive measures to protect against future threats.

Takeaways

• We are in the middle of World War III regarding cyber attacks.
• Ransomware attacks are particularly damaging and complex to handle.
• Crisis management protocols are essential for businesses facing cyber threats.
• Drones pose a new level of threat in cybersecurity.
• Meta's recent product launch faced challenges similar to past tech failures.
• Industry partnerships are crucial for future technological advancements.
• Companies should prepare for cyber attacks as a regular occurrence.
• Backup systems must be robust and ready for immediate deployment.
• The tech industry is seeing a shift towards domestic production for defense.
• Timing in business negotiations can significantly impact project execution.

Sound bites

"We are in the middle of World War III."

"You cannot allow lives to be at risk."

"Mark is trying to be Steve Jobs on stage."

Chapters

00:00 Cyber Attacks and Their Implications

05:20 Types of Cyber Attacks

10:55 Crisis Management in Cybersecurity

16:55 Emerging Threats: Drones and Cybersecurity

21:55 Meta's Product Launch and Stage Presence

25:00 Industry Partnerships and Future Predictions

🎙️ If you’re a founder, startup leader, or tech strategist, this episode breaks down the signals behind the headlines so you can better position your company for the future.

👉 Subscribe for more bold conversations on rivalries, power plays, and the hidden “tricks” behind business success

🔔 Stay tuned for more episodes of The TrickCast: Boardroom Scholars & Magicians - where past rivalries and today’s tech wars become startup lessons you can use.

Summary

In this episode of The Trickcast, hosts Alex and Amir delve into significant developments in the tech industry, focusing on the recent OpenAI and Oracle deal, the implications of the TikTok and Trump-China situation, and the influential role of Larry Ellison in the tech landscape. They discuss the potential AI bubble, the importance of personal branding in investment, and the future of TikTok amidst regulatory challenges.

Takeaways

• Amir Abdelaziz has over 20 years of experience in tech leadership.
• The OpenAI-Oracle deal is valued at $300 billion and involves 4.5 gigawatts of compute.
• Oracle's partnership with OpenAI marks a significant comeback for the company in the cloud space.
• There is a growing concern about an AI bubble and overhyped expectations in the industry.
• Larry Ellison's reputation and personal brand play a crucial role in Oracle's success.
• The TikTok deal involves significant control by US entities, raising compliance issues.
• The algorithm of TikTok is designed to cater to user preferences, which may lead to content disparities.
• The future of TikTok in the US market is uncertain due to regulatory pressures.
• Ellison's business philosophy emphasizes that everything should be viewed as a profit center.
• The importance of a solid plan and credibility when raising funds cannot be overstated.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Tech Leadership and Entrepreneurship

02:00 Oracle and OpenAI: A Game-Changing Deal

09:52 The TikTok Controversy and Its Implications

17:07 Larry Ellison: The Mastermind Behind Oracle's Success

🎙️ If you’re a founder, startup leader, or tech strategist, this episode breaks down the signals behind the headlines so you can better position your company for the future.

👉 Subscribe for more bold conversations on rivalries, power plays, and the hidden “tricks” behind business success

🔔 Stay tuned for more episodes of The TrickCast: Boardroom Scholars & Magicians - where past rivalries and today’s tech wars become startup lessons you can use.

In this episode, Alex and Amir discuss the recent geopolitical tensions affecting subsea cables, the implications of technology sanctions, and the innovation landscape, particularly focusing on Apple and emerging startups. They explore how technology can change lives and the importance of maintaining internet neutrality.Takeaways- Geopolitical tensions can significantly impact critical infrastructure like subsea cables.The response to subsea cable disruptions has improved over time, with quicker restoration of services.- Countries should consider satellite systems as a backup to traditional internet infrastructure.Sanctions can inadvertently push countries to innovate and develop their own technologies.Internet neutrality is crucial for equitable access to technology.- Apple's recent product announcements reflect a focus on reliability rather than groundbreaking innovation.- Emerging startups are innovating rapidly, sometimes outpacing established companies like Apple.- Life-changing technologies are being developed that can significantly improve quality of life for individuals with disabilities.- The importance of collaboration and globalization in technology development cannot be overstated.Technological advancements should prioritize human benefit over geopolitical conflicts.Chapters00:00 Geopolitical Tensions and Internet Infrastructure11:33 China's Technological Advancements in Response to Sanctions19:04 The Role of Technology in Human Enhancement24:16 Innovations in Consumer Technology and Health Gadgets🎙️ If you’re a founder, startup leader, or tech strategist, this episode breaks down the signals behind the headlines so you can better position your company for the future.👉 Subscribe for more bold conversations on rivalries, power plays, and the hidden “tricks” behind business success🔔 Stay tuned for more episodes of The TrickCast: Boardroom Scholars & Magicians - where past rivalries and today’s tech wars become startup lessons you can use.

In this episode, we dive into the latest tech drama as Elon Musk takes on Apple and OpenAI in a legal battle. We explore the implications of these lawsuits, the strategic moves by tech giants, and what it means for the future of AI and innovation.Episode 2 dives into the fights, pivots, and billion-dollar plays shaping the AI era. Three stories, one question: what lessons should entrepreneurs take from the giants?

TakeawaysElon Musk is suing OpenAI and Apple, highlighting tensions in the tech industry. Apple's control over the App Store is a central issue in the lawsuit. OpenAI's acquisition strategies are reshaping the AI landscape. Salesforce is laying off employees as AI takes over roles. The tech industry is witnessing a shift towards AI-driven solutions. Elon Musk's open ecosystem approach contrasts with Apple's closed system. Sam Altman's leadership at OpenAI is under scrutiny. Microsoft's influence in the AI sector is growing. The role of partnerships and acquisitions in tech innovation. The future of AI could lead to universal basic income scenarios.

🎙️ If you’re a founder, startup leader, or tech strategist, this episode breaks down the signals behind the headlines so you can better position your company for the future.

👉 Subscribe for more bold conversations on rivalries, power plays, and the hidden “tricks” behind business success.

⏱️ Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction to the Tech Showdown

00:03:00 Elon Musk's Legal Battle with Apple and OpenAI

00:09:00 The Role of AI in Tech Industry Shifts

00:15:00 Salesforce and the Rise of AI-Driven Solutions

00:21:00 Future Implications and Industry Insights

🔔 Stay tuned for more episodes of The TrickCast: Boardroom Scholars & Magicians - where past rivalries and today’s tech wars become startup lessons you can use.

💡 What do Trump’s Intel deal, EcoStar’s collapse, and Meta’s latest layoffs really mean for tech?

In this full episode of The TrickCast, Alex Siletsky and Amir Abdelazim unpack three massive stories shaping the future of technology, business, and work.We explore:🇺🇸 Trump & Intel: How government involvement in tech could reshape the U.S. economy.

📡 EcoStar/DISH: Why the transition from cable to telecom stumbled (& what startups can learn.

👩‍💻 Meta Layoffs: What Big Tech’s workforce cuts reveal about AI, recruitment, & the evolving job market.

⚡ The common thread: - why clarity of purpose and strategy is the only way to survive in today’s market.

🎙️ If you’re a founder, startup leader, or tech strategist, this episode breaks down the signals behind the headlines so you can better position your company for the future.

👉 Subscribe for more bold conversations on rivalries, power plays, and the hidden “tricks” behind business success

⏱️ We Discuss

00:00:00 – Tech Trends and Global Implications

00:13:16 - The EcoStar Deal and Its Implications

00:19:05 - Meta’s Layoffs and the Future of Tech

00:28:00 - Common Themes and Conclusions

🔔 Stay tuned for more episodes of The TrickCast: Boardroom Scholars & Magicians - where past rivalries and today’s tech wars become startup lessons you can use.

A premiere for our upcoming season : The Art of Competition

Episode 1: Boeing vs Airbus

✈️ Is Boeing falling behind while Airbus keeps gaining ground, was it always the case?

In this episode of The TrickCast, Alex Siletsky and Amir Abdelazim break down one of the biggest rivalries in business history – Boeing vs Airbus – and what startup founders can learn from it.

Recent events have put Boeing under scrutiny, with failures and recalls raising concerns in the aviation industry. News reports highlight whistle blowing accounts, contrasting Boeing vs Airbus in public perception. The FAA is likely involved given the recent plane crash.

We cover:

- The origins of the Boeing vs Airbus rivalry and why Europe created Airbus to compete.

- How healthy competition sparks innovation (and what happens when monopolies kill industries).

- The shocking parallels to tech wars today: Tesla vs legacy auto, Netflix vs Blockbuster, Uber vs Lyft.

- What SpaceX is doing to disrupt aviation and why Elon Musk may be Boeing’s biggest headache.

- Practical lessons for founders and leaders on strategy, market positioning, and creating your own “luck.”

🎙️ If you’re a founder, co-founder, or startup leader, this conversation will change how you think about competition in your own industry.

👉 Subscribe for more bold business rivalries, tech wars, and startup lessons

🔔 Don’t miss future episodes of The TrickCast – where past rivalries meet today’s tech wars.