RobotBuildersClub.org

Epizodes

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  Why Physical AI Safety Is Harder Than AI Safety 23.09.2026 1h 19min

  In this RobotBuildersClub.org podcast episode, Ali Afzal explores with Akshay Chalana, founder of Saphira AI, the critical aspects of safety and compliance in the field of robotics and autonomous systems. It explores the role of standards, certification, and the development of safety reasoning frameworks. The discussion provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in this domain, shedding light on the need for a comprehensive approach to ensuring safety and compliance in the deployment of robotic systems. The conversation delves into the importance of standards and standardization in addressing novel problems in the robotics and automation industry. The episode unpacks application of AI in engineering design and risk understanding, highlighting the value proposition for improving product safety and compliance. Additionally, the discussion touches on the vision and optimism for AI and technology, emphasizing the potential for positive impact and change. The conversation delves into the concept of change as an opportunity, highlighting the optimistic perspective of founders and engineers. It also explores the standardization of the safety stack in the robotics industry, emphasizing the emergence of standardized technologies and business opportunities.TakeawaysSafety and compliance in robotics and autonomous systemsThe role of standards and certification in ensuring safety Standards and standardization are crucial for addressing safety and compliance in the robotics and automation industry.The application of AI in engineering design and risk understanding is a valuable proposition for improving product safety and compliance. Change as OpportunityStandardization of Safety StackChapters00:00 Introduction and Saphira AI02:11 Compliance and Safety in Robotics26:22 Frameworks for Safety Reasoning32:36 The Role of Standards in Addressing Novel Problems33:34 Augmenting Tooling and the Need for Standards Bodies34:04 Safety, Risk Reduction, and Continuum of Safety41:13 AI in Engineering Design and Risk Understanding57:21 The Vision and Optimism for AI and Technology01:00:54 Change as Opportunity01:21:02 Standardization of Safety Stack
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  The Physical AI Stack: Where Founders Should Build 19.08.2026 1h 28min

  Physical AI is not won by hype, it is won by the companies that understand where the real value sits. In this this episode of robotbuildersclub.org, Ali Afzal hosts Bibhrajit Halder, Founder of SafeAI, and breaks down why the biggest opportunities in robotics are not just in the robot itself, but across manufacturing, raw materials, models, infrastructure, workflow, distribution, and service.Ali Afzal and Bibhrajit return for a wide-ranging, highly practical conversation about the future of robotics, autonomy, and physical AI. If you are a founder, engineer, investor, or operator trying to figure out where to place your time, capital, or next startup bet, this episode gives you a grounded map of the space. Bibhrajit explains the physical AI stack from the ground up: hardware, compute, software, infrastructure, and applications and why founders should think beyond the obvious layer. He unpacks why manufacturing and mining may be hidden value centers under hardware, why most startups cannot afford to build foundation models from scratch, and why open source plus proprietary vertical data is likely to dominate many real-world use cases.TakeawaysPhysical AI presents significant opportunities in the manufacturing and construction industries.The role of hardware, manufacturing, and open source models is crucial in the development of physical AI applications. The future of robotics and physical AI will involve a working model that emphasizes partnerships between technology providers and end users.Techno-optimism and anxiety about job displacement coexist, but the macro view shows that job opportunities and progress continue to grow.Investment in physical AI is influenced by market trends, technical moats, and the founders leading the companies.Exit optionality is important for robotics and physical AI companies, and pressure plays a role in considering an exit. M&A success is closely tied to profitabilityA technological breakthrough is needed to advance physical AI and roboticsChapters00:00 Introduction to Physical AI and Robotics03:23 The Value of Physical AI in Manufacturing06:10 Hardware and Manufacturing in Physical AI08:01 Building and Training Models in Physical AI09:24 Open Source vs. Closed Source Models13:36 Foundation Model in Physical AI19:04 The Opportunity in Construction Use Case25:18 The Role of NVIDIA and Other Players in Physical AI32:39 The Real Opportunity in Construction36:38 The Future of Robotics and Physical AI42:21 The Impact of Robotics and AI on Society54:15 Funding and Investment in Physical AI01:02:34 Exit Strategies for Robotics and Physical AI Companies01:08:29 The Challenge of M&A01:17:13 The Future of Physical AI and Robotics
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  Robotics Needs a Sense of Touch 24.07.2026 1h 25min

  RobotBuildersClub.orgIn this episode, our host Ali Afzal, explores with Colin Gallacher, the cofounder of Haply Robotics (www.haply.co), the evolution of haptics, the philosophy of warmth and human touch, the impact of haptic devices on robotics and 3D design, training physical AI with haptic devices, and the long-term vision for haptic devices for consumer applications. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including the future of robotics and humanoids, challenges in product development, technical challenges in hardware development, the interface and user experience, competition in the haptic device space, the journey of commercialization, the Bay Area ecosystem and innovation, the legacy and motivation for innovation, and the expansion to the Bay Area. The conversation delves into the exploration of the Bay Area ecosystem, the challenges of talent and capital markets, Montreal's unique advantages, the future of human-robot collaboration, and a philosophical discussion on society and technology. The discussion provides insights into the dynamics of these themes and their impact on the robotics industry.TakeawaysHaptics has evolved significantly and plays a crucial role in human-machine interaction.The philosophy of warmth and human touch is a key driver in the design and development of haptic devices. The importance of user experience in product developmentThe impact of the Bay Area ecosystem on innovation Exploring the unique advantages of the Bay Area ecosystemUnderstanding the challenges of talent and capital marketsInsights into Montreal's strengths and opportunitiesThe future of human-robot collaborationPhilosophical reflections on society and technologyChapters00:00 The Evolution of Haptics06:02 The Philosophy of Warmth and Human Touch13:01 The Impact of Haptic Devices on Robotics and 3D Design17:02 The Future of Haptic Devices in Consumer Applications22:08 Training Physical AI with Haptic Devices30:06 The Long-Term Vision for Haptic Devices35:43 The Future of Robotics and Humanoids38:10 Challenges in Product Development41:06 Technical Challenges in Hardware Development43:33 The Interface and User Experience47:05 Competition in the Haptic Device Space59:40 The Journey of Commercialization01:00:36 The Bay Area Ecosystem and Innovation01:09:17 The Legacy and Motivation for Innovation01:10:21 Expansion to the Bay Area01:10:53 Exploring the Bay Area Ecosystem01:11:25 Challenges of Talent and Capital Markets01:13:14 Montreal's Unique Advantages01:25:01 The Future of Human-Robot Collaboration01:28:05 Philosophical Discussion on Society and Technology
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  Human Side of Robotics 02.07.2026 56min

  In this episode, our host Ali Afzal, explores with Lindsay Ouellette, the crucial human factors influencing robotics adoption, public perception, and social impact. Lindsay, a researcher blending psychology and robotics, shares her unique perspective on how societal narratives, psychological biases, and cultural differences shape our interaction with robots.Key Topics:The gap between robotic portrayals and realityHow media, science fiction, and marketing influence public perceptions of robotsThe psychological underpinnings of robot abuse and moral behaviorStrategies for better community engagement and transparent communication in deploying roboticsThe importance of behavioral science in designing robots that foster trust and acceptanceThe role of gender, leadership, and societal values in shaping the future of AI and roboticsPractical insights for founders: hiring psychologists, nudging behaviors, and storytellingOptimism for AI and robotics to improve human lives amid challengesTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction02:05 - Lindsay's research focus: human-robot interaction04:07 - Robots are Porn?05:31 - Disconnection caused by the spectacle: if robots are not sexy, they are less valued07:20 - Are industry promises honest or exaggerated? The end game of humanoid robots08:36 - Lindsay's journey: from yoga and dance to understanding power, abuse, and robots11:16 - Why people kick robots: environmental factors and moral behavior insights13:36 - The "say-do" gap: moral self-perception vs blatant behavior15:08 - The impact of sensationalized content and social media algorithms16:59 - What abuse reveals about our collective moral character18:23 - The normalization of everyday aggression through interactions with robots and AI20:23 - How deployment strategies influence public perceptions and trust22:11 - The significance of infrastructure, community engagement, and transparency23:03 - The legal recognition of delivery robots as pedestrians in Pennsylvania24:39 - Cultural differences: Eastern acceptance and reverence for technology vs Western skepticism33:08 - Key advice for robotic startups: hire behavioral scientists, understand variability, shape behavior39:37 - Optimism about AI and robotics: leveraging technology ethically for societal good44:58 - The role of gender and leadership in shaping the future of human-robot interaction50:58 - The importance of inclusive, human-centered design and storytelling in robotics52:43 - Future visions: a society where technology enhances human well-being and community55:40 - Closing thoughts on values, reverence, and cultural evolution in the age of AIResources:Book: Nudge by Richard H. Thaler and Cass R. SunsteinLindsay Ouellette - SubstackHuman-Robot Interaction (HRI) research articlesThe Boston Dynamics' Atlas robotTesla Optimus robotConnect with Lindsay:LinkedIn
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  What Robotics Hiring Trends Reveal About the Future? 11.06.2026 1h 1min

  In this RobotBuildersClub.org podcast episode, Greg Toroosian, CEO of Samson Rose discusses with our Host, Ali Afzal, what the hiring trends reveal about the evolving state of robotics, and offers practical advice for aspiring roboticists and startup founders. Keywordsrobotics, talent acquisition, startup hiring, automation, AI, hardware, industry trends, networking, career adviceKey topicsRobotics industry growth and verticalsTalent acquisition and hiring trendsStartup challenges and founder adviceChapters00:00 Introduction and Context of Robotics Hiring03:12 Current Trends in Robotics Talent Acquisition09:37 Greg's Journey into Recruitment and Robotics15:04 The Growth of Robotics and Its Impact on Industries18:42 Skills in Demand and Hiring Trends22:47 Navigating the Job Market for New Graduates30:06 Challenges in Talent Acquisition for Startups34:40 Attracting Talent in Startups37:01 Common Hiring Mistakes in Robotics39:31 The Impact of Podcasting on Networking49:35 The Future of Robotics and Automation54:56 Rapid Fire Insights on RoboticsLinks:Machine Mind ShowSamson Rose Greg Toroosian
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  Deploying Robots Successfully 15.05.2026 1h 1min

  Today on RobotBuildersClub.org Podcast discover how robotic companies are managing deployment success and operational excellence across industries. Richard Petrazzini, CEO of Robotic Crew, shares insights on supporting robotic fleets at scale, industry trends, and the tech evolution from task-specific robots to humanoids.In this episode:The critical shift from robot deployment to operational reliability and scalabilityMistakes that cause field failures and how to prevent them through better support systemsWhy the handoff process from product development to operational support is vitalThe expanding global landscape: where the most innovation is happening in roboticsWhy robotics will increasingly be integrated into every business, becoming the new standardThe path toward humanoid robots and the breakthroughs needed to get thereTimestamps:00:00 - Robotics success metrics beyond shipping02:00 - Keeping robot fleets operational at scale03:45 - Why robots fail in the field05:00 - The importance of post-deployment support08:00 - From product mindset to service mindset09:45 - Global robotics deployment challenges13:30 - Applying diagnostics lessons to robotics16:45 - Privacy, trust, and user engagement18:10 - Managing increasingly complex robot fleets19:50 - Vendors, end users, and future command centers22:00 - IT infrastructure parallels in robotics24:13 - Fleet management and modular robotics systems27:00 - Robotics innovation across the US, Europe, and LATAM29:00 - The growing robotics talent gap30:50 - Robotics and US manufacturing resurgence33:00 - Adaptability and resilience in tech progress34:05 - Focused robots vs humanoids35:50 - Teleoperation and robotic perception37:30 - From task-specific robots to humanoids40:00 - Insights from Modex and global robotics hubs44:25 - Surprising innovations and global competition48:20 - Why the US leads robotics innovation52:25 - Family, opportunity, and global careers55:00 - What to learn now: Python, economics, support ops56:10 - Human creativity and adaptability59:00 - Human-robot interaction in 2050Resources & Links:Robotic CrewModex ConferencePittsburgh Robotics (CMU)Boston DynamicsConnect with Richard Petrazzini:LinkedIn
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  Queen of PCB Shares Robot Building Insights 01.05.2026 50min

  In this episode of RobotBuildersClub.org Podcast, Ali Afzal explores the intricate world of PCB design and manufacturing through the lens of the Queen of PCB Manufacturing - Jennie Nguyen, CEO of PCB Tech. Jennie shares her insights on supply chains, regulatory standards, offshore vs. domestic manufacturing, and how robotics startups can navigate this complex ecosystem effectively.Key Topics:The strategic importance of early decision-making in PCB design, testing, and supply chain considerationsHow to choose manufacturing locations based on product type, regulation, and geopolitical factorsCost estimates for PCBA in high-volume applications like autonomous vehiclesRegulatory impact on PCB design for sectors such as DOD and medical devicesHow to future-proof supply chains amid geopolitical uncertaintiesThe advantages of US-based manufacturing and its limitations in cost competitivenessPractical advice for robotics entrepreneurs on product development cycles from prototypes to mass productionThe evolving role of AI and technical skills needed for new entrants in roboticsInsights into global manufacturing ecosystems: China, Vietnam, Philippines, and the USATimestamps:00:00 - Coming out of engineering: next steps in robotics hardware02:01 - Jennie Nguyen's journey to CEO of PCB Tech04:04 - Breakdown of PCB Tech's customer sectors and growth areas09:58 - Designing PCBs for robotics vs. consumer electronics11:03 - Impact of regulation: DOD, medical, and certification processes13:31 - How a robotics startup can navigate the PCB supply chain15:00 - Cost considerations for PCBA in high-volume applications17:08 - Profit margins in mass production and typical mistakes to avoid19:07 - How global sourcing and sourcing scale reduce costs21:02 - Manufacturing ecosystems: China, Vietnam, Philippines, US trends23:36 - The future of domestic and high-value PCB manufacturing in the US25:41 - When to outsource manufacturing and in-house considerations27:20 - Design for manufacturability (DFX) and testing strategies31:53 - Jennie’s vision for PCB Tech: Impact, impact, impact34:33 - Women in PCB and robotics: challenges and opportunities36:46 - Advice for women entrepreneurs and engineers entering robotics38:34 - Skills in demand: AI, geopolitical awareness, technical competence42:19 - Adapting to geopolitical risks in product design44:40 - Future of PCB and manufacturing in the next decade49:24 - Visualizing the world in 2050: Jetsons-style innovation and positivity50:24 - Closing thoughts on leadership, investment, and industry evolutionResources & Links:Understanding SMT (Surface Mount Technology)ISO 13485 Certification DetailsAS9100 Aerospace StandardITAR Regulatory InformationGlobal Supply Chain InsightsConnect with Jennie Nguyen:LinkedIn
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  Apple to Uber: Inside a Robotics Founder’s Exit Journey 27.04.2026 1h 14min

  Bibhrajit Halder, CEO of SafeAI delves into the journey of scaling the autonomous mining robotics company Safe AI, the challenges of organizational growth, the deployment and sales cycle, the mindset and thought process of fundraising, the importance of storytelling for investors, and the exit story of SafeAI to Pronto and eventually to Uber.Ali unpacks Bibhrajit's decision to exit, the acquisition process, the sense of unfinished business, and future plans. We also cover advice for new graduates and a lightning round of insights and perspectives on the future of autonomy and physical AI. You don't want to miss this episode!TakeawaysThe importance of understanding the physical world when building physical AIThe challenges of scaling from prototype to production Sticking to the fundamentals of understanding a problem is crucial for scaling a businessBuilding relationships and trust is essential in closed ecosystemsThe mindset and thought process of fundraising is critical for startup successStorytelling is important for investors to understand the vision and potential of a businessThe sale and exit story of Safe AI to Uber.Unfinished business in the autonomy industry drives future plans and a focus on physical AI.Chapters00:00 The Journey of Autonomy05:49 Transition to Safe AI and Entrepreneurial Journey11:48 Physical AI and the Challenges of the Physical World22:07 Scaling from Prototype to Production26:47 Understanding the Physical World33:03 Scaling Safe AI41:15 Deployment and Sales Cycle52:25 Fundraising and Storytelling01:05:09 Exit Story: Sale to Pronto01:11:17 Advice for New Graduates01:22:33 Lightning Round: Insights and Perspectives
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  Physical AI Meets Fulfillment: The Infrastructure Behind Instant Commerce 20.04.2026 58min

  In this episode of RobotBuildersClub.org, Yegor Anchyshkin, CEO of Instock.com reveals how their robotic system is revolutionizing fulfillment and logistics. Discover how automation is becoming accessible, scalable, and cost-effective for micro-fulfillment centers near consumers.Key insights include:The vision of democratizing warehouse automation through compact, vertical systems that utilize lightweight magnetic robots.The advantages of digital twin technology for rapid, high-fidelity simulation and layout modeling before deployment.Strategies to minimize disruption during implementation, emphasizing small beginnings and phased rollouts.The evolving role of software: controlling swarm behavior, pre-calculating trajectories, and hardware management via simulation tools.The criticality of user experience and intuitive design for operational adoption, including quick onboarding and safety assurances.The future landscape: smaller, more adaptable warehouses, reducing costs, and bringing automation closer to consumers.Challenges in the robotics industry: balancing promise and realistic deployment, and managing investment risks amid hype.
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  Making Robots Safe For Humanity 03.04.2026 56min

  This RobotBuildersClub.org episode explores the critical role of safety in robotics, emphasizing how engineering decisions and market pressures shape outcomes. Amir Sharif, COO of 3Laws, shares his insights on developing universal safety layers, the myths around humanoid robots, and how safety can become a driver of performance and trust, not just a regulatory afterthought. If you're involved in robotics, AI, or autonomous systems, this discussion offers clarity on navigating safety in an uncertain and rapidly evolving landscape.In this episode:The inspiration behind 3Laws and its connection to Asimov's laws of roboticsWhy safety layers are essential for autonomous systems beyond physical barriersThe limitations of current safety approaches in industry and the need for deterministic safety layersHow safety influences performance, trust, and market acceptance of robotsThe impact of regulatory standards across different industries (defense, automotive, medtech)The misconceptions fueling humanoid robot hype and the importance of task-specific designThe analogy of cybersecurity’s assumption of breaches with robotics safety designWhy cascading failures pose the biggest risk in autonomous factories and supply chainsThe generational shift in safety perception and trust in autonomous technologyThe economic and strategic importance of integrating safety into product developmentResources & Links:3Laws - Safety layer for autonomous systemsIsaac Asimov’s Laws of RoboticsCisco SystemsPalo Alto NetworksIEEE Robotics StandardsISO Robotics Safety StandardsComputer History Museum
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  Ceiling Robotics Revolution: Future of Space Utilization 25.03.2026 51min

  In ep 7, we explore how ceiling-based robotic systems are poised to transform storage, logistics, and automation in residential, commercial and industrial spaces. Ken Miller, CEO of Stakabl.com shares his journey from complex system design to pioneering a robotics platform for micro fulfillment and beyond that leverages underutilized overhead space, promising a smarter, more efficient logistics and supply chain future.Key Topics:The origin story of Stakabl and the innovative ceiling grid conceptWhy overhead space is an untapped resource for storage and roboticsApplications spanning smart homes, micro-fulfillment centers, and reverse logisticsThe detailed mechanical design process behind Stakabl, from sketches to CAD to prototypesChallenges in integrating multiple sub-systems and ensuring scalabilityThe analogy between art (painting) and engineering in system designThe role of experience versus youth in engineering and building hardware productsDesigning for maintenance, longevity, and safety in robotic systemsThe parallels between the shipping container revolution and Tray-based ecosystemsVision for ceiling robotics as a category and data-driven logistics platformThe conversation covers topics related to revolutionizing packaging ecosystems, logistics and order fulfillment, micro fulfillment centers, lessons from manufacturing and hardware founders, design principles, personal commitment, leadership and decision-making, designing for longevity and maintenance, and advice for mechanical engineers.00:00 Introduction to Ken Miller and Stakabl Robotics01:14 The Eureka Moment: Rethinking Storage Solutions03:40 Applications of Stackable Robotics in Homes and Industry06:01 The Vision for the Future of Robotics08:22 Ken Miller's Journey: From Engineer to Entrepreneur10:21 The Design Process: From Concept to Prototype12:59 Exploring the Stackable System: Components and Functionality15:21 Challenges in Mechanical Design and Integration17:43 Safety Considerations in Overhead Robotics19:11 The Future of Robotics: Environmental Impact and Sustainability25:38 The Potential of Ceiling Robotics32:51 Micro Fulfillment and Logistics Innovations39:03 Lessons from Manufacturing and Hardware Development44:50 Lightning Round: Quick Insights and ReflectionsResources:www.stakabl.comwww.RobotBuildersClub.orghttps://www.linkedin.com/company/robotbuildersclub-org
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  Human-Centric Interfaces: Key To Scaling Robots 13.03.2026 56min

  In this episode, Shak, CEO of Hello Robo (www.hellorobo.co), shares insights on designing intuitive interfaces for robotics, emphasizing the importance of trust, safety, and understanding human behavior. Discover how UX principles translate to robotics and why focusing on user experience can accelerate adoption and improve deployment outcomes. In this episode:Shak's journey from design to robotics and the founding story of Hello RoboChallenges in designing human-robot interfaces and the role of empathyThe balance between engineering-driven and user-centered design in robotics startupsKey features that foster operator trust and safetyThe importance of rapid iteration and testing with real usersHow emotional design and micro-movements make robots feel more humanThe future of multimodal interfaces: voice, AR, haptics, and beyondLessons learned from deploying robots in real-world environmentsLeadership tips for building a resilient and human-centric teamTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction and Shak’s background in design and robotics02:30 - The importance of responding to community and fostering connections05:00 - Transition from UX to robotics and founding Hello Robo07:20 - Common challenges in human-robot interface design09:45 - How operators perceive and trust robotic systems11:17 - When should robotics startups develop their own interfaces?13:49 - The misconception of autonomy and the importance of trust phases15:42 - How to handle information overload and visibility in interfaces18:29 - Critical UI elements for safety, such as emergency stops21:12 - Building confidence and transparency during robot deployment22:37 - Emotional design: making robots feel trustworthy and safe24:49 - What operators really need versus what founders assume they want26:51 - Rapid feedback cycles: testing and iterating with real operators28:04 - Exploring multimodal interfaces—voice, AR, haptics31:28 - VR in robotics and its current challenges and potential33:50 - Understanding what real-time system data operators should see36:20 - The process of tailoring interfaces for specific users and contexts38:04 - Overcoming cultural and habit barriers in adoption39:33 - The critical role of safety and managing risk41:00 - The importance of simple and decisive control mechanisms43:39 - Leadership insights: building a human-centric, resilient team45:32 - Advice for entrepreneurs entering the human-robot interface space48:43 - The subtle art of micro-movements and emotional cues in robots51:52 - Future outlook: AI, robotics, and societal shifts54:45 - Lightning round: quick takes on interfaces, features, and sci-fi dreamsResources & Links:Hello Robo — Official websiteShak's LinkedInRobotBuildersClub.org
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  The Future of Robotics: Success Depends on How Well We Maintain 06.03.2026 53min

  In this episode, Victor from Waku Robotics shares a comprehensive view on how maintenance often overlooked is critical to robotics success.We explore the current industry gaps, the parallels with human health, and how a focus on maintenance can extend robot longevity, reduce costs, and accelerate adoption. Whether you're a founder, operator, or investor, these insights clarify why maintenance is the key to unlocking scalable and resilient robotic systems.Key Topics:The undervaluation of maintenance in robotics and its impact on project failureThe end-to-end software solutions for proactive maintenance managementHow preventive maintenance can significantly extend robot lifespan and reduce costsLessons from automotive industry emphasizing repeatability and scaleThe cultural and organizational shifts needed for effective robot deploymentFuture trends: AI-enhanced physical systems and their adoption milestonesThe analogy between human longevity and robotic longevity through preventive careCommon myths about robotics adoption and the reality of implementation timelinesThe importance of company culture and skills in managing robotic operationsThe role of data-driven maintenance in transforming industries from logistics to wind energyResources & Links:Waku Robotics - Official website of Victor’s companylotsofbots.com - Database of mobile robots for benchmarking and insightsAndrew Huberman Podcast - For insights on neuroscience, well-being, and performanceDexterity Robotics - Example client scaling robotics solutionsThis conversation underscores that as robotics matures, maintenance and the strategic orchestration of operational resilience will be at the core of successful deployment. Leaders who understand and prioritize preventative care will lead the next wave of automation, transforming not just productivity but also human well-being. Embracing data-driven maintenance isn't just a technical upgrade it's a fundamental shift towards systems that last, perform, and adapt.
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  The Evolution of Fleet Management in Robotics 07.02.2026 54min

  In this conversation, Aldus von der Burg, CEO of Meili Robots shares insights from his journey in robotics, transitioning from a drone company to fleet management software. He discusses the challenges of regulations, the importance of integrating robots with human operators, and the various applications of robotics in industries like healthcare and retail. Aldus emphasizes the need for education in the market, the cultural differences in business practices, and offers advice for founders looking to enter the robotics space. The conversation also touches on the future of robotics and AI, as well as the importance of design and user experience in technology.
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  From Disney to Drones: Building a Multimodal Robotics Platform 06.02.2026 53min

  Is it a drone… or is it a vehicle?In this 3rd episode of RobotBuildersClub.org, Alvaro, founder of Mercurius, explains why multimodal robots are the next leap in autonomy — and what most robotics teams get wrong.
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  Teaching Robots Our Language: The Future of Human–Robot Collaboration 04.02.2026 40min

  We’ve spent decades teaching humans how to program robots.What if that’s the wrong approach?In episode 2 of Robot Builders Club, Ali Afzal sits down with Lone Bekkeheien, founder of Marsilia Robotics, who’s building a new abstraction layer for robotics: one where humans talk to robots the same way we talk to other people.Lone breaks down why today’s “collaborative” robots still aren’t truly collaborative, how natural language interfaces can unlock high-mix, low-volume manufacturing, and why software not hardware is the real bottleneck holding robotics back. Drawing from her background in cybernetics and robotics and her journey from Norway’s robotics ecosystem to San Francisco, she cuts through the hype around embodied AI, humanoids, and LLMs to explain what actually works in production.If you care about making robots usable, scalable, and accessible beyond elite experts, this conversation will change how you think about human–robot collaboration.
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  From Software to Steel: How One Founder Is Teaching Robots to Tile Floors 24.01.2026 46min

  What building a construction robot reveals about the future of work, hardware startups, and founder mindsetIn this first-ever RobotBuildersClub.org conversation, Shamoon Siddiqui discusses his journey from software engineering to founding Human Friendly Robotics, focusing on the development of Tyler, a tiling robot. He shares insights on the challenges of robotics, the importance of customer feedback, and the dynamics of building a startup team. The discussion also covers the fundraising process and the future of automation in the construction industry, emphasizing the need for innovation and adaptation in a rapidly changing technological landscape.