Ep 17. Michael Harries (Robotics, AI, Tech)

What does it take to go from the Australian tech scene to making waves in Silicon Valley? In this week’s episode, we sit down with Michael Harries, an Aussie kicking ass in the world of robotics and deep tech. With a track record of shaping frontier technologies in AI and quantum computing, Michael shares his journey, insights, and hard-won lessons from the global innovation frontlines.We explore the fast-paced evolution of AI, the engineering realities that many startups often overlook, and why deep tech ventures require an entirely different playbook, from funding to talent acquisition to risk mitigation. Michael doesn’t hold back on what it takes to get from the lab bench to boardroom, and how Australian startups can punch above their weight with better commercialisation strategies.Key Takeaways:Deep tech is the backbone of breakthrough innovation.Success in AI and robotics hinges on top-tier talent.Founders need to enhance their communication skills to bridge the gap between science and business.De-risking is non-negotiable for attracting deep tech investment.Traditional VC approaches don’t cut it—deep tech needs bespoke funding strategies.Systems thinking helps founders navigate complexity at scale.Many AI startups underestimate the engineering lift.Australia has global potential—but must get smarter about commercialisation.Accelerators should ditch cookie-cutter models in favour of tailored support.Government support can be a game-changer if used strategically.Epic Execution is the definitive podcast for entrepreneurs, executives, and innovators seeking to build companies, raise capital, and deploy it effectively. Our central themes are team selection and leadership, validating your way to Product Market Fit, and creating genuine customer value and enduring engagement.Hosted by David Kenney, we bring you unfiltered conversations with CEOs who have built extraordinary companies from the ground up. We dive deep, asking the hard-hitting questions that unlock the secrets behind explosive growth, effective team leadership, strategic capital management, and groundbreaking product development. Each episode features actionable insights and strategies designed to maximise your business potential.Check out startwithepic for more.