Erik Torenberg

Erik Torenberg is an investor and media founder whose AI work includes a podcast about AI builders and the field’s effects. He earned a BS in economics at the University of Michigan and joined Product Hunt as its first employee. His founder dinners expanded around the world, and he founded On Deck. In 2023, he co-hosted The Cognitive Revolution, a weekly AI podcast, and launched Turpentine, a podcast and newsletter network about technology, business and culture. In April 2025, Andreessen Horowitz announced plans to acquire Turpentine and named him a general partner; as of October 2026, he focuses on investing and marketing at the firm.

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Timeline

By 2015

Product Hunt’s first hire

At the University of Michigan, he earns a BS in economics. After shutting down Rapt.fm, he joins Product Hunt as its first employee; by March 2015, he is the company’s first hire.
December 2019

Founding On Deck

His founder dinners expand around the world, and he founds On Deck. In December 2019, On Deck finishes its second Founder Fellowship.
February 2023

The Cognitive Revolution

In February 2023, he introduces The Cognitive Revolution with Nathan Labenz as a weekly AI podcast. They interview builders at AI’s edge and explore the changes the technology may bring.
June 2023

Launching Turpentine

In June 2023, he launches Turpentine, a network of podcasts and newsletters about tech, business and culture from industry insiders and experts.
January 2024

Venture partner at Village Global

In January 2024, he transitions to a venture-partner role at Village Global after co-founding the firm.
As of October 2026

General partner at a16z

In April 2025, a16z announces plans to acquire Turpentine and names him a general partner. As of October 2026, he focuses on investing and marketing at Andreessen Horowitz.