Get the Check | Podcast on Spotify
On this episode of Get the Check, the trio kicks things off with a vulnerable chat about work besties (RIP to Maya’s). The hosts cover Grammarly’s relevance post the rise of AI, Rhode’s $1B exit, and why venture capital is taking a page out of the private equity playbook.
Grammarly's Funding and Future
Grammarly recently raised a billion dollars in funding from General Catalyst, without giving up equity. The hosts explain how non-dilutive revenue-based funding rounds work, resembling Mr. Wonderful on Shark Tank. They delve into the reasons behind Grammarly's continued success, despite the widespread use of AI for writing corrections, with a focus on the company's future post acquiring Notion competitor Coda.
Hailey Bieber and Rhode's Acquisition
Next, the hosts discuss Hailey Bieber's skincare brand Rhode being acquired by e.l.f. for a billion dollars. They analyze why this deal is mutually beneficial, with Rhode gaining access to a more established company for expansion and e.l.f. diversifying its revenue streams. They also touch upon the impact of VC firms adopting PE strategies and acquiring small businesses with AI integration.
The Latest in Tech
This week's episode sees Maya, Anika, and Priya diving into the latest tech releases, including Anthropic’s Claude 4, OpenAI's acquisition of io, and Google’s developer conference. They discuss the implications of these developments on the AI landscape and tech industry as a whole.
Recent Launches and Industry Updates
The hosts further explore recent tech launches such as OpenAI’s Codex, Airbnb’s rebrand, and Uber’s route share program. They analyze the impact of these launches on their respective industries and speculate on future trends.
Insights on Trump's Middle East Trip
Lastly, the hosts provide insights on Trump's trip to the Middle East, highlighting investments in data centers, defense, and AI by Saudi Arabia and the UAE. They discuss the implications of these partnerships and the shifting dynamics in the region.
