Duckbill

Meghan Verena Joyce and Jessica Zucker, Ph.D. sat down last week to talk her new book Normalize It, and dive deep into what it means to ask for help when we need it most. Because, we all need, and deserve, help. Stay tuned for more of this conversation, and order Jessica's book through the link in the comments.

I’ve posted on LinkedIn before about what an AI agent really is. But maybe the better question is: what makes a truly great personal assistant? Is it deep knowledge of your calendar and preferences? Attention to detail? The ability to anticipate your needs? Yes…and something more. Because a great assistant doesn’t just remember — they help you offload with confidence by making you feel seen and understood. It’s the copilot who books that long-overdue trip and gets the cultural details right — not just the logistics. It’s the fellow parent who’s been there, telling you (while researching schools) that you’re not alone for wondering if you’re doing it right. It’s that mix of personalization and empathy that cuts through the overwhelm, not just to be efficient, but to make life feel easier. That’s where AI is going — and I’m excited to help shape a future where tech meets human magic to redefine what support really looks like.

I have learned SO much since I founded Duckbill just a couple years ago. This is #WhatIWishIKnew when I got started. Any other builders out there relate? Let me know in the comments!

Another benefit of human-centric product building (esp in consumer AI!) - your customers become deeply invested in getting the product right. Solving real humans' real problems pays dividends on many levels. Curious for what y'all think! (On this note - huge thanks to all of our amazing Duckbill members and copilots who give us invaluable feedback and encouragement every day. Our best ideas come from you!!)

Duckbill, OneRail, and Harbor have secured significant funding — including the increasingly rare Series C funding — to grow and operate their respective startups . Their founders shared strategies for attracting investors to guide and inspire other startups aiming to expand: Featuring: Kevin Lavelle | Bill Catania | Meghan Verena Joyce #Startup #Funding

“The strongest thing a founder can do is to build a business that solves a real-world problem and that’s an iconic, sustainable business,” she said. “When you focus on the fundamentals, the rest comes easily because investors will want to invest in a business that’s working.” Meghan Verena Joyce on Duckbill's growth for CO— by U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Read the full piece below ⬇️

"We’re seeing a rise in tasks related to finances, and I am so grateful that we’re able to help with those needs. The overwhelm that drove me to create Duckbill is stronger than ever, and everyone deserves a solution to help them reclaim the time that will be taken by economic uncertainty. Because, we deserve to spend that time, and our one, precious life, on the things that bring us joy." - Meghan Verena Joyce

The future is coming fast, and WE get to choose HOW it works - and WHO it works for. I am constantly thinking about happiness, time, and AI and how they fit together and serve each other - for both our members and our copilots. For me, combining the power of AI with human ingenuity is the key to shaping the future of Duckbill - and American innovation.

Hard to believe it's been a year since my last Duckbill #notsponsored post, but in that time Duckbill has helped me open and operate the original Framework launch location, as well as now open our new Flagship location, while also getting things done at home. They helped me complete well over 100 tasks over the past year. Shout-out Meghan Verena Joyce and the Duckbill team for bringing this product to life. Can't wait to see what else you can help me do this year! To help bring it to life, people's #1 question is: 'What do you use it for?'. Here's 4 recent, very high leverage ones: 1) 'Request pricing for cost segregation study' [biz] -- reach out to accounting firms that offer cost segregation studies, get quotes, answer follow-up questions, ensure quotes get delivered, negotiate lower pricing and schedule walk through appoint. 2) 'Contact AA for baggage fee refund' [personal] -- I accidentally paid twice for baggage fees at a check in kiosk. I had Duckbill call up AA, wait on hold, provide all relevant info and submit the request, and follow-up to ensure it was processed. 3) 'Create digital parking map for Framework' [biz] -- I needed a diagram to show customers 5 different nearby locations for parking. I hand drew a horrible map, which Duckbill turned into the digital and much improved graphical version now found on our website. 4) Research, compare and purchase lobby tv message software' [biz] -- I wanted a software platform to run on my in lobby screens. I had Duckbill research top vendors, compare their features, confirm compatibility with my hardware, purchase an additional dongle required, and ensure delivery. Want to give it a spin? Sign up here (and the Duckbill team tells me no waitlists, this time!): https://lnkd.in/gFxKm3jy.

I’ve been testing Duckbill Virtual EA, and I have to say—it’s been a game-changer! Their service has been an invaluable extension of my personal and professional life, from small but time-consuming tasks to complex, multi-step logistics. Travel Optimization: Whether navigating multi-city flights, strategically using a mix of miles and cash, or maximizing travel programs and status, Duckbill ensured that every trip was booked seamlessly and cost-effectively. Disneyland Planning: Researching hotel ticket options and finding the best experience for the trip—handled. No endless tabs or overwhelming choices, just the best options surfaced efficiently. General Task Management: From admin support to personal research, Duckbill’s team has kept things running smoothly in the background, saving me HOURS and headaches! If you’re juggling a packed schedule, I highly recommend checking them out. The combination of efficiency, expertise, and reliability has been a huge win. To save 50% off your first two months: