It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

16 January 2026

ZEISS: Is present ''everywhere'' and allows you to see ''everything''!

Join co-hosts Colin Brown and Martti Wallin as they unpack another Category Leading company. This conversation explores the history and impact of Carl Zeiss and his company, which revolutionized the field of optics and microscopy. It delves into the contributions of key figures such as Ernst Abbe and Otto Schott, the establishment of the Zeiss Foundation, and the company’s evolution through significant historical events, including World War I and the Weimar Republic. The discussion highlights the importance of craftsmanship, innovation, and corporate social responsibility in shaping the legacy of Zeiss. This conversation explores the rich history and evolution of Zeiss, a company that has played a pivotal role in optics and technology. From its foundation’s stability during turbulent times to its strategic pivots in consumer markets and military technology, Zeiss has navigated through wars, the Cold War, and the digital age. The discussion highlights the company’s resilience, innovation in semiconductors, and its significant contributions to space exploration and photography. As Zeiss continues to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing landscape, it remains a leader in precision optics and measurement, shaping the future of technology.

TAKEAWAYS:

  • Clarity, observation, truth, measurement, and capability are essential.
  • Carl Zeiss’s workshop in Jena marked the beginning of precision optics.
  • The collaboration between Carl Zeiss, Ernst Abbe, and Otto Schott was revolutionary.
  • The Zeiss Foundation was established to tie profit to progress.
  • Craftsmanship was a vital currency in the 19th century.
  • The microscope became a crucial tool for scientific discovery.
  • Listening to customer needs was key to Zeiss’s success.
  • The company faced challenges during World War I but maintained its principles.
  • The Weimar Republic posed significant challenges for Zeiss.
  • The legacy of Zeiss continues to influence modern optics.
  • The foundation of Zeiss provides stability during crises.
  • Zeiss’s pivot to consumer markets expanded its reach.
  • The Second World War accelerated technological advancements for Zeiss.
  • The Cold War led to a split in the Zeiss brand.
  • Zeiss played a crucial role in the semiconductor revolution.
  • The company has been integral to space exploration.
  • Reunification allowed Zeiss to modernize and innovate.
  • Zeiss continues to thrive in the digital age.
  • The company’s history reflects resilience and adaptability.
  • Zeiss’s impact on technology is profound and ongoing.
  •  

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

16 January 2026

Airbus: How Limited Resources, Zero Credibility, and Pure Conviction Built a European Powerhouse

Join co-hosts Colin Brown and Martti Wallin as they unpack another Category Leading company. This month, we take on the Category Leader in civil aviation – Airbus! This conversation explores the rise of Airbus, detailing its origins as a collaborative effort among European nations to compete with American aviation giants. The discussion covers the challenges faced during the early years, the significance of the A300 aircraft, and the pivotal role of government support. It highlights the technological innovations introduced with the A320 and the competitive dynamics of the aviation market in the 1980s, setting the stage for Airbus’s evolution into a major player in the industry. This conversation delves into the evolution of Airbus and Boeing, focusing on key historical events, market dynamics, and strategic decisions that shaped the aviation industry. It highlights the turbulent 1990s, the rise of low-cost carriers, the significance of the 1992 EU-US agreement, and the challenges faced by the A380. The discussion also covers the formation of EADS, the impact of technology like Skywise, and the complexities of Airbus’s relationship with the defense sector.

Finally, it examines Boeing’s current challenges and the future of supersonic travel

TAKEAWAYS:

  • Airbus emerged as a response to the dominance of American aviation companies.

  • The collaboration between European nations was crucial for Airbus’s formation.

  • The A300 was a significant innovation in the aviation industry.

  • Government support played a vital role in Airbus’s early development.

  • Airbus’s initial struggles were marked by a lack of market share and credibility.

  • The introduction of the A320 revolutionized cockpit technology and pilot experience.

  • Airbus’s growth in the 1980s was fueled by technological advancements and market demand.

  • The competitive landscape shifted as Airbus gained recognition in the global market.

  • Airbus’s strategy involved leveraging government loans and support for development.

  • The story of Airbus is a testament to innovation and collaboration in the face of challenges.

  • During the 80s, Boeing and McDonnell Douglas consumed about $135 billion in US grants.

  • The 1990s were a turbulent period for aviation, with significant changes in market dynamics.

  • A true duopoly emerged between Boeing and Airbus, particularly in the single-aisle market.

  • The 1992 EU-US agreement aimed to address government subsidies but was largely ineffective.

  • The A380 was designed to meet the demand for larger aircraft but faced significant challenges.

  • Skywise represents a shift towards data-driven business models in aviation.

  • Airbus’s success is tied to its ability to integrate systems across European nations.

  • The future of aviation may not prioritize supersonic travel due to cost and infrastructure challenges.

  • Boeing’s current challenges highlight the importance of strategic choices and leadership.

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

Why Europe’s needs Sovereign Compute

16 January 2026

Summary

Colin Brown is joined by Jonatan Luther-Bergquist (Inflection) to discuss the concept of Sovereign Compute and the evolving landscape of venture capital in Europe. Jonatan emphasises the importance of cryptography, the challenges in the defence technology sector, and the opportunities presented by space tech. They dive deep on the difficulties in cybersecurity investments and the challenge of building in these highly technical fields.

TAKEAWAYS:

  • Sovereign Compute is a critical technology shift in human history.

  • Investment in cryptography is expected to grow due to increasing data security needs.

  • The defense technology sector is evolving but faces bureaucratic challenges.

  • Space technology presents unique investment opportunities, especially with lower launch costs.

  • Cybersecurity remains a challenging market for venture investments.

  • European startups have the talent and potential to compete globally.

  • Hackathons are a valuable tool for connecting tech innovators with defense needs.

  • The fragmented European market can be an advantage for solving specific problems.

  • Founders with conviction and vision are essential for driving innovation.

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

Product Market Fit (PMF) for the warfighter

16 January 2026

Summary

In this podcast episode, Colin Brown interviews Rasmus Basilier, a prominent figure in the defense technology space. Rasmus shares his journey from a childhood dream of becoming a soldier to his current role in defense accelerators and technology validation. The conversation explores the evolving defense ecosystem in Europe, the impact of the Ukraine war on military strategies, and the challenges of procurement in the defense sector. Rasmus emphasizes the importance of validation and testing for defense technologies, the role of logistics and economics in warfare, and the current investment landscape in defense startups. He also highlights innovative companies making strides in the defense space and concludes with thoughts on the future of defense technology and national security.

TAKEAWAYS:

  • Rasmus has a lifelong passion for defense and military.

  • NATO Diana provides crucial support for defense startups.

  • The Ukraine war has shifted military strategies in Europe.

  • Validation in real military environments is essential for tech.

  • Logistics and economics play a critical role in warfare.

  • There is a significant influx of investment in defense tech.

  • Patriotic capital is rising in response to security needs.

  • Innovative companies are emerging in the defense sector.

  • Procurement processes are evolving in Finland and Europe.

  • Collaboration between startups and military is vital for success.

     

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

Delivering “Special Forces” Equipment for the entire Ukrainian Army!

16 January 2026

Summary

In this conversation, Colin Brown interviews Misha Rudominski, co-founder of Himera, a company focused on developing advanced communication solutions for modern warfare. Misha discusses the challenges faced in battlefield communication, the innovative solutions Himera is creating, and the importance of adaptability in a war zone. The conversation also touches on the evolving narrative of Ukraine’s defence efforts and the recognition of other innovators in the defence tech space.

TAKEAWAYS:

  • Himera focuses on scalable and resilient communication solutions for modern warfare.

  • Current battlefield communication systems are often complicated and not user-friendly.

  • The company aims to create affordable solutions for all levels of military forces.

  • Himera’s products are designed to work in harsh environments where traditional systems fail.

  • The company has over 7,000 users, primarily within the Ukrainian Defence Forces.

  • Supply chain management in Ukraine requires careful planning and diverse sourcing.

  • The narrative of Ukraine’s defense is shifting towards self-sufficiency and innovation.

  • Misha highlights the importance of user feedback in product development.

  • The conversation emphasizes the growing strength of Ukraine’s defense capabilities.

     

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

Why Deep Tech Needs Validation, Not Hype

16 January 2026

Summary

In this conversation, Colin Brown interviews Erik Bhullar from BSV Ventures, discussing the fund’s focus on deep tech investments, the importance of scientific validation, and the unique challenges faced by founders in the tech space. They explore the role of hardware in deep tech, the significance of communication in technology, and how BSV Ventures supports startups in navigating regulatory challenges. The conversation also touches on the fund’s commitment to supporting Ukraine through technology and the admiration for scientific talent in Europe.

TAKEAWAYS:

  • BSV Ventures focuses on deep tech and critical tech investments.

  • The fund size influences the business model and investment strategy.

  • Leading investments involves thorough diligence, even with small checks.

  • Deep tech companies often have a fundamental scientific edge.

  • Health security is intertwined with national security.

  • The Baltic region has a rich deal flow for deep tech.

  • Hardware plays a significant role in deep tech investments.

  • Supporting Ukraine through technology is a priority for BSV Ventures.

  • Investing in scientific talent is essential for future innovations.

     

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

The Future of Camera Tech Is Inspired by the Human Retina

16 January 2026

Summary

This conversation explores the incredible capabilities of the retina in capturing images and reacting to stimuli, comparing its speed and resolution to conventional camera technology. It highlights advancements in machine vision technology that aim to replicate these remarkable features.

Join Colin Brown, Ruy Pinto and Diffraqtion’s CEO Johannes Galatsanos to dive deep on the capability his company will unlock.
Recorded shortly after Diffraqtion won a one million investment from Slush 2025.

TAKEAWAYS:

  • The retina reacts to shapes and movement quickly.

  • It triggers responses faster than conventional technology.

  • Retina-inspired technology achieves 20 times the resolution of cameras.

  • It operates at 1,000 times the speed of traditional cameras.

  • Machine vision is evolving to match biological systems.

  • The sharpness of machine vision is unprecedented.

  • Understanding the retina can inspire technological advancements.

  • Speed and resolution are critical in imaging technology.

  • Innovations in vision technology can enhance various fields, but particularly Space.

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

Ukraine’s Defense Startups Are Reshaping European Security

16 January 2026

In this conversation, the founders of Double Tap Investments discuss their vision for the future of Ukraine post-war, their current operations in investing in defense technology, and the unique challenges they face in a war-torn environment. They emphasize the importance of speed, learning, and innovation in their investment strategy, while also addressing trust issues and the impact of their work on European defence.
The discussion highlights the bravery of individuals in Ukraine and the need for a united European front against threats.

 

TAKEAWAYS:

  • Building relationships in Ukraine is crucial for future opportunities.
  • The investment strategy focuses on supporting defence startups in Ukraine.
  • Learning from the Ukrainian experience is a key goal.
  • Speed and adaptability are essential in the current war environment.
  • Trust issues exist, but personal connections help mitigate them.
  • Innovation in defence comes from solving real problems on the ground.
  • The European economy must unite to effectively counter threats.
  • Investing in teams is vital for success in defense tech.
  • The bravery of individuals in Ukraine inspires continued support.

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

Estonia’s “Supervillain” Top Secret Programme

16 January 2026

This conversation examines the role of the Creative Destruction Lab (CDL) in Estonia, focusing on its unique university-operated model that accelerates startups. The discussion highlights the importance of mentorship, the significance of Estonia’s position in the startup ecosystem, and the emphasis on defence technology and material sovereignty. Kadri and Artur share insights on the program’s “structure”, the selection of mentors, and the current trends in security.

TAKEAWAYS:

  • CDL accelerates startup ventures through a university-operated model.
  • The program creates a liquid network of startups, mentors, and universities.
  • Estonia is recognized as a land of unicorns, fostering innovation.
  • The CDL program is tailored to the specific needs of startups.
  • Mentorship is crucial for the success of startups in the program.
  • The selection of mentors is based on their current relevance and expertise
  • Defence technology is a key focus area for CDL Estonia.
  • Material sovereignty and energy independence are critical for national security.
  • The program aims to create a diverse range of technologies to address current challenges.