Austin isn’t just built by founders—it’s shaped by the people who help them be seen.

In this episode of Austin Eras, Adam sits down with John King—venture builder, storyteller, and community leader whose career has been defined by one core idea: giving others a voice.

From his early days helping elevate Austin’s clean tech ecosystem to joining SparkCognition in the early days of AI—and now launching companies through WorldQuant Foundry—John has been at the center of some of the city’s most important growth moments.

But his story goes deeper.

Growing up feeling unheard, John found purpose in amplifying others—whether advocating for students, shaping industry narratives, or helping founders clarify who they are and why they exist.

John continues that work through his role as Chair of the Austin Under 40 Advisory Board, helping guide the next generation of leaders and deepen the event’s impact for the Austin Sunshine Camps and across the city.

In this conversation, we explore:

• The real impact behind Austin Under 40—and why it matters
• What it really means to “give a company a voice”
• The early days of AI in Texas and building an AI unicorn
• Why storytelling is the foundation of every successful startup
• How Austin’s culture of collaboration sets it apart
• How venture studios are building the next generation of companies

And ultimately, a bigger question: What makes Austin work—and how do we protect it as it grows?

This episode is a look at the people behind the progress—and the power of community in shaping a city’s future.

Get in touch with John King

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnmking512/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jmk512/

WorldQuant Foundry

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/worldquantfoundry/
• https://www.worldquantfoundry.com/

Get in touch with Austin Eras

Email: info@austineras.com

Website: https://www.austineras.com/

Call: 512-387-2333

Watch the show on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-bTMj5WY-4LduZI50w8bvQ/?sub_confirmation=1