Turning light into millions — Literally

Two Stanford physicists left the lab to fix a broken system: computer chips that waste too much energy and can’t keep up with AI. Their startup, Lightium, is using light (yep, actual light) to make chips faster, cooler, and ready for the next tech wave — from AI to quantum. In this episode, we get into: - Why traditional chips are hitting a ceiling - How they explained photonic tech without losing the room - The inside story of raising €7M as deeptech outsiders - What it really takes to turn hard science into a real business If you like big tech bets, underestimated founders, and startups building the invisible stuff that powers the future — hit play. Chapters: 00:00:00 - Introduction to Lightium and Its Founders 00:02:53 - The Journey into Photonics and Deep Tech 00:05:48 - Transitioning from Academia to Entrepreneurship 00:09:03 - The Birth of Lightium 00:11:46 - Navigating Competition in the Photonics Industry 00:14:52 - Understanding Photonics: Misconceptions and Realities 00:23:57 - The Future of Data and Photonic Solutions 00:24:43 - The Future of Electric Vehicles and Autonomous Driving 00:26:33 - Co-Founders: Balancing Roles and Responsibilities 00:31:02 - Building a Strong Team Culture in Deep Tech 00:37:54 - Navigating Customer and Investor Relationships 00:39:42 - The Future Impact of Lightium on Data Consumption 00:45:56 - Finding Momentum in the Startup Journey