AI, Engineering and the Future of Startups with Max Olson

Host Paul Spain talks with Max Olson, founder of Pretty Fast, building ambitious deep-tech companies and AI-powered manufacturing. Max shares the thinking behind Halter, Vessev, and his latest venture, Pretty Fast, an instant-quote laser-cutting business built with a lean technology stack. Hear how hydrofoils can cut boat energy use by up to 80%, why ferries are a practical starting point for electric vessels, and how AI let Max Olson build software, manufacturing workflows, and a business without hiring a software team. Paul Spain explores the bets and pivots behind it. Thanks to our partners: One NZ, Workday, 2degrees, Spark, PwC New Zealand, SAP and Gorilla Technology.