I worked at Joe & The Juice before founding Synthesia, a $4 billion AI unicorn. Here's how I structure my day.

Victor Riparbelli, the driving force behind Synthesia and its remarkable ascent to a $4 billion valuation, shares the intricacies of his daily life. The CEO, who founded the AI video platform in 2017, typically wakes up around 8 a.m., though he wishes he could be one of those early risers. His morning routine is straightforward: a quick shower, no breakfast, and a determined effort to avoid checking his phone before heading to the office. Riparbelli's workday begins around 9:30 a.m., where he prioritizes deep work and creativity before lunch. He aims to keep his mornings free from meetings, allowing him to dive into product development and internal communications, primarily via Slack. Despite the growing demands of his role, he remains closely involved in various aspects of the company, particularly product strategy. Lunch is often a quick affair, typically a sandwich or salad, consumed at his desk while managing his schedule full of international meetings, especially when he's in London. His responsibilities are shared with co-founder Steffen Tjerrild, who oversees operations, while Riparbelli focuses on product, technology, and marketing. Evenings see him leaving the office around 7 or 8 p.m., often hitting the gym before settling down for a light dinner. He favors ordering in but occasionally cooks simple meals. Riparbelli emphasizes the importance of a healthy diet for maintaining his energy levels, particularly as he struggles with sleep. To wind down, he indulges in reading and music creation, steering clear of television in favor of thought-provoking sci-fi films and literature that have shaped his thinking. As a self-described poor sleeper, he uses podcasts and YouTube videos as a sleep aid, opting for subjects that intrigue him but don’t demand his full attention. This unique blend of productivity and personal interests illustrates how Riparbelli manages to lead a cutting-edge company while nurturing his creativity and wellness.