Looking back on a great few days at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 last week, and it was one of the most energizing events I've attended this year.
Between panels, startup demos, and plenty of conversations about where AI is headed, I found some quiet time (and a hammock!) to strategize and reflect on how fast innovation is moving—and how critical it is to protect it.
The Power of Meaningful Networking
One of my favorite parts of the conference was the Braindate Networking experience. The app made it easy to post or join small group discussions on everything from AI patents to the latest advances in healthcare technology and the future of programming (hint: large language models won't be the end!). The one-on-one and small group format led to some really thoughtful conversations with founders and technologists who are pushing boundaries in their fields.
When and What to Patent: A Recurring Question
A recurring theme in many of those discussions: when and what to patent. It's a question I hear often from founders building in emerging spaces, including many AI-enabled innovations like immersive environments, authentication and cryptography, emergency response systems, and maternity care, as well as traditional technologies like clean mineral extraction. The short answer? The earlier you start thinking strategically about your IP, the stronger your long-term position will be.
It was great to connect with so many passionate innovators—and to see how events like TechCrunch continue to bring together the people shaping what's next.