Kirsten Korosec, Anthony Ha, and Rebecca Bellan were joined by Build Mode host Isabelle Johannessen to analyze the most significant tech developments of the year. They explored topics ranging from surprisingly large AI funding rounds to the emergence of "physical AI," and shared their predictions for 2026.

The conversation covered a wide array of subjects, including why AI agents fell short of expectations in 2025—though they are likely to deliver in 2026—how Hollywood is preparing to resist AI-generated content, and the reasons behind the severe liquidity crisis facing venture capitalists.

Listen to the full episode for insights on:

Why world models represent the next major advancement in AI and how they differ from large language models.

The decline of "stealth mode" among AI startups and the growth of alternative funding avenues.

Forecasts about regulatory turmoil in AI policy and the implications of Trump's recent executive order for startups.

Bold opinions on potential IPOs: whether OpenAI and Anthropic will go public in 2026. Quick predictions also touched on the eventual public split between Johnny Ive and Sam Altman, the resurgence of basic phones, and the trend of everyone labeling themselves "AI native."

A preview of Build Mode season 2, which will take a closer look at team development, hiring practices, and the search for co-founders.

Subscribe to Equity on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Overcast, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. You can also follow Equity on X and Threads at @EquityPod.