2117 - How the Internet's Bandwidth Revolution is Shaping the Future of AI with Dan Caruso

Thriving as an Independent Consultant: Insights from Liz Sibley In a recent podcast episode, host Josh engages in a compelling conversation with Dan Caruso, Managing Director of Caruso Ventures and author of "Bandwidth: The Untold Story of Ambition, Deception, and the Innovation that Shaped the Internet Age and Dotcom Boom." This episode offers a wealth of insights into the tech industry's evolution, the internet's transformative impact, and emerging investment opportunities in quantum computing and space tech. Let's delve into the key themes and actionable advice from this engaging discussion. Dan Caruso, a pivotal figure in the tech industry, shares his journey through the internet's rise and the subsequent bandwidth boom and bust. Initially underestimated, the internet quickly revolutionized human interaction and commerce, leading to a surge in bandwidth demand and a frenzy of investment in the late 1990s and early 2000s. However, the subsequent crash exposed unethical behaviors, resulting in significant financial losses. Dan emphasizes the importance of ethical business practices, sustainable growth, and learning from failures to guide future entrepreneurs in navigating the tech landscape. The conversation also explores current technology trends, particularly the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing. Dan highlights the ongoing need for robust bandwidth infrastructure to support AI's data processing demands and predicts quantum computing's potential to revolutionize industries. He shares his investment strategies through Caruso Ventures, focusing on deep tech sectors like quantum and space technology. As the discussion concludes, Dan offers bold predictions for 2025 and underscores the role of entrepreneurship in driving positive change, encouraging listeners to embrace innovation and learn from the past.About John Caruso: As founder and CEO of Zayo Group, Caruso led the company to an $8.5 billion exit, delivering exceptional returns for investors. His career highlights include co-founding executive roles at Level 3 Communications and leadership positions at Metropolitan Fiber Systems (MFS), both achieving multi-billion-dollar enterprise values. Caruso also spearheaded the 2004 take-private of ICG Communications, achieving a remarkable 25x return. In 2020, he founded Caruso Ventures, a prominent investment firm focusing on quantum technology and space tech. A three-time “Decacorn” entrepreneur, his expertise is shared with aspiring innovators through numerous organizations, including Endeavor Global, Colorado Thrives, Elevate Quantum, and the University of Chicago’s Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation. Caruso holds an MBA from the University of Chicago and a BS in mechanical engineering from the University of Illinois. His numerous accolades include the Chicago Booth Distinguished Alumni Award for Entrepreneurship, the Colorado Technology Association’s Bob Newman Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Colorado Governor’s Corporate Citizenship Medal. Caruso has also inspired future generations as a commencement speaker for both the University of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering and the University of Colorado Boulder MBA program.About Caruso Ventures: Caruso Ventures invests in tech-enabled companies led by highly effective CEOs. We use our deep scale up experience to help the next generation of tech leaders achieve their visions. Caruso Ventures sets up Special Purpose Vehicles (“SPV”) for our investments, which allows for additional investors to participate in select investments. Our typical initial investment is $500k to $1 million at the early revenue ramp stage, with the propensity to follow on. We are industry agnostic and we will lead or follow. Our investment focus is almost exclusively Colorado. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: <a...