Founding an AI Startup as a UC Berkeley Student: Ryusei Best, Reach Best CEO

The Magnus Effect Podcast • July 10, 2025

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Guest Role Confidence Extraction Method Actions
Founding an AI Startup Guest 85% RULES Login to Follow

Description

Welcome back to the Magnus Effect! In this episode, we talk to Ryusei Hayashi, an international student at UC Berkeley and founder of @reachbest-ai , a platform using AI to help with college admissions. Ryusei shares his story of starting a business at 17, his mixed cultural background, and how his family inspired him. We dive into his challenges as a young entrepreneur and the lessons he's learned. Whether you're in college or thinking about launching a startup, this episode is full of wisdom and inspiration. Tune in to hear Ryusei's insights on innovation, family, and finding your own path. Don't miss out!00:00 Introduction to the Magnus Effect Podcast01:15 Meet Ryusei Best Hayashi: Young Entrepreneur01:32 The Best Dynasty: Family Legacy and Values06:15 Cultural Identity and Multicultural Background10:29 Striving for Excellence: Academics and Extracurriculars18:34 Navigating College Admissions During COVID-1923:29 The Birth of ReachBest: From Personal Tool to Startup26:45 Turning ReachBest into a Business32:27 Discovering Berkeley's Unique Culture33:13 The Evolution of ReachBest35:07 Entering Berkeley Skydeck36:13 Challenges and Growth in Year Three37:48 Focusing on the U.S. Market38:51 The Importance of Autonomous Platforms42:11 Innovative Hiring Practices54:42 Rapid Fire Questions01:05:51 Final Thoughts and Advice for Future Generations

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