AEC Tech Journeys with Mayur Mistry

Stop Building Dashboards: What Real Estate Operators Actually Pay For

In this conversation, Alon Gorbonos, General Partner and Founder of RE Angels, shares his journey from real estate operator to venture capitalist. He discusses the skills necessary for aspiring real estate operators, the challenges of transitioning to venture capital, and the importance of understanding market dynamics. Alon emphasizes the need for effective fundraising strategies, the identification of trends in real estate technology, and the significance of networking. He also provides insights into the future of real estate tech, highlighting areas of saturation and opportunity.
 
Takeaways
 
Alon Gorbonos transitioned from real estate to venture capital.
Understanding market dynamics is crucial for success.
Real estate is not a passive investment; it requires active involvement.
Fundraising is a humbling experience for both VCs and founders.
Networking and personal introductions are key to effective fundraising.
AI can enhance productivity in real estate operations.
The future of real estate will involve a hybrid of humans and AI.
There is a need for innovative solutions in procurement processes.
Founders should do their homework before pitching to investors.
Real estate tech is rapidly evolving with significant opportunities.
 
Chapters
 
00:00 Introduction to Alon Gorbonos and RE Angels
02:11 Challenges in the Real Estate Journey
03:56 Becoming a Real Estate Operator
08:58 Fundraising for a Venture Fund vs. Startup
09:16 Surprises in Fundraising
12:45 Effective Fundraising Tips
14:40 Forming an Investment Thesis
17:51 Call for Ideas in Real Estate Tech
22:34 Opportunities in Under-Saturated Areas
24:37 Common Mistakes in Pitching to Investors
28:24 Possibilities of Rapid Growth in Real Estate
32:39 Future of Real Estate Tech and Networking Events
 
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Building AI Agents for Real Jobsite Workflows Not Generic Chatbots

In this conversation, Joshua Weyand, an Enterprise Solutions Engineer at Trunk Tools, shares his journey in the construction tech industry, highlighting key career milestones, the importance of empathy in his role, and the skills necessary for success. He discusses the unique challenges faced in construction tech, the innovative solutions offered by Trunk Tools, and the competitive culture within the company. Joshua also emphasizes the significance of understanding the construction buyer and offers valuable advice for those looking to succeed in this field, including the importance of mental health and community support.
Takeaways
 
Getting an internship can open many doors.
Public speaking skills are crucial for career success.
Saying yes to new opportunities can change your career path.
Empathy is essential in understanding customer needs.
Solutions engineers must bridge the gap between field and tech.
Understanding the construction buyer is complex and nuanced.
Mental health awareness is vital in the construction industry.
Admitting defeat and pivoting is important in startups.
Building relationships is key to success in sales.
Continuous learning and networking are essential for growth.
 
Chapters
 
00:00 Introduction to Joshua Weyand
02:47 Career Highlights and Lessons Learned
06:18 Understanding the Role of an Enterprise Solutions Engineer
10:21 Skills for Success in Construction Tech
11:44 Overview of Trunk Tools and Its Impact
14:56 Company Culture and Hiring at Trunk Tools
16:32 Challenges in Construction Procurement
18:53 Go-to-Market Strategies in Construction Tech
25:05 Navigating the Buyer Landscape in Construction
27:40 Final Thoughts on Mental Health and Community in Construction
 
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⁠Inside Path Intelligence: Tracking Behavior in Digital Twins for Real Insights

In this conversation, Nate Robert-Eze, CEO and Co-founder of Path Intelligence, shares his journey from starting a fashion brand in college to leading a tech company focused on spatial intelligence. He discusses the importance of storytelling in business, the challenges of user experience, and the impact of AI on the real estate industry. Nate emphasizes the need for strong relationships in entrepreneurship and offers insights into effective go-to-market strategies. He envisions a future where immersive experiences redefine property exploration.
Takeaways
 
Nate's early ventures included a fashion brand and architecture projects.
Building relationships is crucial for entrepreneurial success.
Storytelling can significantly enhance client engagement.
The pivot to product was driven by advancements in AI.
User experience is a key challenge in tech development.
Engaging developers early can enhance project outcomes.
The future of real estate involves immersive experiences.
Technology will likely replace many traditional realtor roles.
Networking and authority are vital for market strategies.
Starting today is the best advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.
 
Chapters
 
00:00 Career Highlights and Early Ventures
02:27 Entrepreneurial Journey and Lessons Learned
04:45 The Power of Storytelling in Business
07:20 Pivoting to Product: Embracing AI and Spatial Intelligence
10:04 Challenges in User Experience and Engagement
12:20 Engagement Strategies for Developers and Realtors
14:42 Future Vision: The Evolution of Path Intelligence
17:15 Navigating Technology and Real Estate
19:53 Go-to-Market Strategies and Building Relationships
22:28 Rapid Fire Round and Closing Thoughts
 
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Why Construction Robots Don’t Scale And How Simulation Fixes It

In this conversation, Anton Glance, CTO and Co-founder of Buildroid AI, shares his entrepreneurial journey, highlighting his experiences in various startups, particularly in the fields of smart home technology and construction. He discusses the importance of understanding customer needs, the challenges of scaling innovations in the construction industry, and the potential of robotics to transform the sector. Anton emphasizes the need for startups to be adaptable, open to feedback, and focused on delivering real value to their customers.
Takeaways
 
Always dive deeper to understand how things are made.
The importance of customer feedback in product development.
Building a prototype quickly is crucial for validation.
Don't rely on friends for honest feedback; seek strangers.
The construction industry is conservative and resistant to change.
Startups need to find a balance between innovation and existing processes.
Revenue generation should be prioritized early in the startup journey.
Building a network early can provide significant advantages.
Iterate quickly and be open to changing your approach.
Focus on solving real problems that exist in the market.
Chapters
 
00:00 Journey of an Entrepreneur
09:26 Lessons from Startup Experiences
19:02 Navigating the Construction Industry
27:52 Innovating with Buildroid
37:07 Challenges and Triumphs in Robotics
 
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From Cloud CCTV to Construction Intelligence: Evercam’s Story

In this episode, Mayur Mistry interviews Marco Herbst, CEO and co-founder of Evercam, who shares the journey of building his company from its inception to its current status as a leader in construction technology. Marco recounts the early days of Evercam, starting with his fascination for capturing construction projects through time-lapse videos using IP cameras. He discusses the challenges faced in finding product-market fit, particularly in the competitive security industry, and how a pivotal shift towards construction technology allowed Evercam to thrive. Marco emphasizes the importance of visibility and collaboration on construction sites, highlighting how advancements in AI and camera technology have transformed project management and communication in the industry.
 
Takeaways
"The principle is the same, visibility, collaboration on the construction site."
"We realized that a lot of the challenge we were solving was the difficulty of connecting to the information."
"If you can possibly get the money from your customers, it means so much more than getting it from an investor."
"Construction is local; you have to make that choice of geography or vertical."
"The joy of going home at the end of the day and being able to say, I built that, I was part of that."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Marco Herbst and Evercam
00:20 The Early Days of Evercam
02:23 Challenges in the Security Industry
04:46 Pivoting to Construction Technology
07:18 Proudest Moments in the Journey
10:56 Fundraising Insights and Strategies
16:01 Hiring in a Remote Environment
20:47 Go-to-Market Strategies and Regional Adaptation
23:45 Lessons Learned and Reflections
 
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Private Equity + Venture Studios Are Coming for Construction Tech TAM

In this conversation, Alice Leung, Principal of Brick and Motor Ventures, shares insights on the evolving landscape of construction technology, particularly focusing on AI adoption, the rise of non-technical founders, and the challenges of software differentiation. She discusses the future of robotics in construction, the importance of pricing transparency, and the dynamics of venture capital and private equity in the industry. Alice also highlights the skills needed for success in construction tech and the common struggles founders face as they scale their businesses.
Takeaways
 
AI adoption in construction is still evolving.
Non-technical founders are increasingly entering the space.
Software differentiation is becoming more challenging.
Robotics in construction is gaining momentum.
Pricing transparency is essential for industry efficiency.
Navigating deal flow is a significant challenge for VCs.
Pattern recognition is crucial for success in VC.
AI-powered services could disrupt traditional construction methods.
Hiring talent in construction tech is becoming competitive.
Founders face unique challenges at different growth stages.
Chapters
 
00:00 Introduction to Construction Tech and AI Predictions
05:08 The Evolution of AI in Construction
09:20 Challenges and Opportunities in Construction Robotics
13:35 Navigating Deal Flow in Construction Tech
18:09 Skills Development in the Construction Tech Landscape
22:43 Emerging Trends and Unique Business Models
26:45 The Future of AI-Powered Services in Construction
30:01 Common Struggles for Founders in Construction Tech
35:24 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts
 
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Building “AI for Construction Compliance” (Struck Co-Founder Story)

In this conversation, Nikhil Nagaraj, co-founder of Struck, shares his journey from studying electronics engineering in India to building an AI-driven platform for construction compliance. He discusses the challenges of the construction industry, particularly the housing crisis, and how Struck aims to simplify compliance processes using AI. Nikhil elaborates on the product's features, including its ability to provide real-time compliance checks and generate reports, while also offering insights into navigating the AEC industry for those without a background in it.
 
Takeaways
 
Nikhil's journey into AI began during his undergraduate studies in electronics engineering.
The launch of Struck was driven by a desire to address the housing crisis and improve construction compliance.
Compliance in construction is often treated as an afterthought, leading to inefficiencies.
Struck aims to simplify compliance processes using AI, making regulations more accessible.
The product has evolved to include features like zoning laws and permit-free building checks.
Prioritization in product development is crucial, focusing on compliance-related features.
The AEC industry is fragmented, requiring tailored solutions for different regions.
Collaboration with industry experts is essential for building effective solutions.
Good software engineering practices are vital for successful AI implementation.
Building in the AEC space can be challenging but rewarding, with many willing to help. 
 
Chapters
 
00:00 Nikhil Nagaraj's Journey into AI and Construction
07:27 The Challenges of Prioritization in Tech Development
09:25 Overcoming Technical Challenges in AI
17:06 Exploring Struck's Product and Its Functionality
24:36 Navigating Building Regulations and Workflows
27:20 Creating a Frictionless User Experience
29:42 Leveraging AI and Data Sources
32:33 Bridging B2B and B2G in Construction Compliance
36:00 Advice for Non-AEC Professionals
39:45 Final Thoughts on Building in AEC
 
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Architect Business Systems: What No One Teaches You

In this conversation, Jefferson Schierbeek, a principal and co-founder of Addison Schierbeek Architects, shares his journey in architecture, discussing his transition from practicing architect to business owner, the importance of client relationships, and the evolving landscape of architectural services. He emphasizes the significance of understanding client needs, effective pricing strategies, and the rise of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in response to housing policies. Jefferson also reflects on his teaching experience and the impact of technology and AI on the future of architecture.
Takeaways
 
Architecture is a journey filled with adventures and highlights.
Creating homes that feel uniquely theirs is essential for clients.
Many architects back into business management rather than planning for it.
Joining professional networks like Entree Architect can be beneficial.
Building relationships is crucial for finding clients in architecture.
Understanding client needs is key to successful projects.
Pricing strategies should reflect both effort and market conditions.
The rise of ADUs is a response to changing housing policies.
Teaching architecture can provide valuable insights into design and methodology.
AI is evolving but is not yet ready to replace human architects.
Chapters
 
00:00 Journey Through Architecture: From Education to Practice
02:22 Navigating the Business of Architecture
04:53 Building Relationships: Finding Clients in Architecture
07:27 Understanding Client Needs and Expectations
09:51 Pricing Strategies in Architectural Projects
12:46 The Rise of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
15:21 Teaching Architecture: Insights and Experiences
17:56 Reflections on Notable Projects
20:27 The Future of Architecture: Technology and AI
 
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How Custom AI Agents Supercharge Architecture

In this conversation, Michael Loussinian, Founder of BlueBuild, discusses his journey from architecture to integrating AI into architectural workflows. He shares insights on the future of AI in architecture, the challenges of freelancing, and the importance of custom UI development for automation. Michael emphasizes best practices for AI workflows, explores the limitations of AI, and presents innovative use cases in design. He also highlights the role of AI in architecture firms and discusses the LA Mapscraper automation tool. The conversation concludes with rapid-fire questions and Michael's thoughts on the evolving landscape of architecture and AI.
 
Takeaways
 
Michael's journey from architecture to AI showcases the evolving landscape.
AI is transforming the way architects work, focusing on automation.
Freelancing in architecture presents unique challenges and learning opportunities.
Custom UI development is essential for effective automation in architecture.
Best practices in AI workflows lead to better outcomes and efficiency.
AI can help eliminate repetitive tasks, allowing for more creative focus.
Understanding AI's limitations is crucial for its effective application.
Innovative use cases of AI can enhance design processes significantly.
The memory of AI is important for maintaining project context over time.
Anticipating changes in business models is necessary as AI becomes more integrated. 
Chapters
 
00:00 Introduction to AI in Architecture
00:52 Career Highlights and Freelancing Journey
03:49 The Future of AI in Architecture Firms
06:08 Overview of Blue Bill Enterprises
09:05 Project Walkthrough: Automation in Action
14:50 Best Practices for AI Workflows
19:57 AI Limitations and Opportunities
24:10 LA Mapscraper: A Practical Example
28:17 Testing and Refining AI Workflows
33:14 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts
 
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⁠Inside the Zen Acoustics: Building Real-Time Noise Control for Buildings

In this conversation, Dr. Yoav Vered, CTO of Zen Acoustics, shares his journey from mechanical engineering to the forefront of acoustic technology. He discusses his early career, innovations in active noise control, the role of digital twins in engineering, and the challenges of real-world testing. Dr. Vered emphasizes the future of acoustic technology in smart homes and the importance of adapting to environmental noise. The conversation concludes with rapid-fire insights and reflections on the potential of acoustic control in everyday life.
Takeaways
 
Dr. Vered began his career at the Technion in Israel.
His research focused on underwater acoustics and wave dynamics.
Active noise control (ANC) technology has evolved significantly in recent years.
Digital twins can enhance control systems in engineering.
Real-world testing is crucial for developing acoustic technologies.
The integration of ANC in buildings can mitigate environmental noise.
Smart homes still have room for improvement in acoustic control.
Dr. Vered emphasizes the importance of adaptability in technology.
The future of acoustic technology aims to enhance living environments.
Collaboration with construction companies is key for technology implementation.
 
Chapters
 
00:00 Journey into Acoustics: Early Career Highlights
05:38 Digital Twins and Active Noise Control Innovations
09:36 Building Technology: From Lab to Real-World Applications
14:04 Product Development: Integrating Technology into Construction
18:12 Advice for Founders: Navigating the Hardware Space
20:56 Future of Acoustic Control in Smart Homes
 
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