Are Brain-Computer Interfaces Actually Ready for Humans? - This Week in Startups Recap

Podcast: This Week in Startups

Published: 2026-03-16

Duration: 1 hr 14 min

Guests: Matt Engel, Tom O'Leary, Dan Zavarodny

What Happened

Alex introduces the episode by discussing three startup companies: Paradromics, JetZero, and Nutrisense, each at the forefront of technological innovation. Paradromics is highlighted for their work on brain-computer interfaces (BCIs), which aim to translate neural activity into actionable computer data. Matt Engel from Paradromics explains the implantable nature of their BCI, which places tiny microwires near neurons to record electric impulses, akin to dropping microphones into a crowded space.

Engel outlines how the device can help individuals with speech impairments, such as those caused by paralysis, to communicate through a computer by translating their neural attempts to speak. He discusses the use of AI, particularly large language models, to predict and correct the intended speech based on neural signals. This technology could also extend to controlling robotic limbs or reading cognitive states for mental health applications.

Paradromics has received FDA approval for Investigational Device Exemption and is preparing for imminent clinical trials with individuals who have impaired speech and limited movement. Engel emphasizes that while the initial applications are focused on severe disabilities, the underlying technology has the potential to enhance human capabilities significantly, potentially offering 'superpowers' to users.

Alex then shifts the focus to JetZero, a company aiming to revolutionize aircraft design with their blended wing body (BWB) aircraft. Co-founder Tom O'Leary explains that the BWB design offers significant fuel savings and can fit into existing airport infrastructure, making it a viable replacement for aging aircraft models. The design promises faster boarding due to its unique seating configuration, which includes multiple aisles.

JetZero's BWB aircraft, the Z4, is expected to offer up to 50% savings in fuel burn per passenger mile compared to older models like the Boeing 767. The company plans to have a demonstrator ready by the second half of 2027, with full-scale commercial operations projected for the early 2030s. O'Leary stresses the importance of product-market fit, noting that their aircraft fills a gap in the market for planes carrying 200-250 passengers.

Finally, Nutrisense is featured for its work on wellness and personal health tracking using continuous glucose monitors. Co-founder Dan Zavarodny emphasizes the importance of glucose monitoring for understanding responses to food, stress, and exercise. Nutrisense combines this data with AI and human dietitians to provide personalized health insights.

Zavarodny explains that Nutrisense users can lose significant weight by understanding and managing their glucose levels without pharmaceutical interventions. The company aims to make health data accessible and actionable, offering a subscription model for their services. Nutrisense sees potential in extending their offerings to those using GLP1 medications by helping them maintain weight loss and muscle mass.

Key Insights