EP 231 Disrupting the Supply Chain with J.P. Keating

The Silicon Valley Podcast

Episode Summary:

In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with J.P. Keating, a prominent figure in the supply chain and mobility sectors. J.P. shares his extensive career history and provides deep insights into the rapidly evolving world of supply chain technology, mobility startups, and the complexities of navigating these industries. From discussing the sexiness of supply chain tech to addressing the critical challenges and sustainability considerations, J.P. offers a comprehensive look at the present and future of these dynamic fields.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Career Background:
   • P. Keating gives an overview of his career journey and experiences that have shaped his expertise in supply chain and mobility sectors.
2. Supply Chain Technology:
   • Why supply chain tech is one of the most exciting fields in technology today.
   • The impact of recent advancements and why people should be excited about this sector.
3. Evolving Mobility:
   • Navigating the complexity of mobility startups amidst advancements in autonomous vehicles, electric vehicles, and other technologies.
4. Regulations and Policies:
   • The importance of understanding regulations and policies when building or investing in companies within the supply chain and mobility spaces.
5. Challenges in the Sector:
   • Unique challenges faced by startups and investors in supply chain and mobility compared to other sectors.
6. Technology Evolution:
   • How technologies like human-less electric cargo planes evolve compared to software MVPs and iterative testing.
7. Resilience to Disruptions:
   • Assessing the resilience of supply chain startups to disruptions caused by global events like the COVID-19 pandemic.
8. Sustainability Initiatives:
   • Evaluating the sustainability practices of companies in the supply chain and mobility industries.
9. Economic Impact:
   • The importance of supply chain and mobility to the overall economics of cities and countries.
   • How the adoption of new technologies can impact GDP.
10. Global Interest:
    • Identifying the regions and stakeholders most interested in supply chain and mobility technologies.
11. Philosophy on Success:
    • P. shares his philosophy on "stacking bills without anyone knowing who you are" and its implications for business success.
12. Exit Strategies:
    • Discussing the preferred exit strategies for companies in the supply chain and mobility sectors.
    • IPO vs. earlier round exits.
13. Value to Founders:
    • Why founders should be excited to have J.P. and his team on their cap table.
14. Success Stories:
    • P. shares a compelling story of a company he worked with or one in the supply chain and mobility space.
15. Connect with J.P.:
    • How listeners can learn more about J.P. Keating and his current projects.

Listener Takeaways:

• Gain insights into the cutting-edge developments in supply chain and mobility technologies.
• Understand the challenges and opportunities in navigating these rapidly changing industries.
• Learn about the importance of sustainability and regulatory knowledge in building successful startups.
• Discover the economic impact and global interest in supply chain and mobility advancements.
• Hear real-world success stories and practical advice from an industry expert.

Resources:

• P. Keating's LinkedIn