2025 has officially become the year of AI — and the pace isn’t slowing down.

In this episode of Liftoff, we sit down with Michael Palmer, CEO & Chief Scientist of Taos Research Corporation and author of the new book Agentify: The Art, Science, and Engineering of Successful AI Agents. Michael brings decades of experience spanning Silicon Valley startups, venture capital at Kleiner Perkins, and leadership roles at Yahoo and U.S. Bank, where he led AI, data, and digital transformation.

We dive deep into how AI agents are evolving beyond simple prompts into systems with real agency, autonomy, and initiative — and what that means for startups, enterprises, and solopreneurs alike. Michael explains why vertical focus matters, how companies should rethink org structures in an AI-first world, and why the next billion-dollar company might be built by just one person and a fleet of AI agents.

If you’re a founder, operator, or builder trying to understand what’s next in AI — this conversation is essential listening.

🎧 Tune in to learn:

- Why agents without agency are about to be replaced

- How AI is changing org design, productivity, and hiring- What founders must get right to build durable AI companies

- Why execution, adaptability, and specialization matter more than ever

Connect with Michael Palmer:

- Website: https://taosresearch.ai

- Agentify Book: https://taosresearch.ai/learning/agentify-the-art-science-and-engineering-of-successful-ai-agents

- Substack: https://substack.taosresearch.ai

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaellpalmer

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