Future Tech And Foresight

How are emerging technologies like generative AI going to impact marketing and the consumers ads are targeting? About the Episode: One of the interesting things that seems to be coming together with the growing number of podcasts is how numerous new technologies and the emerging sectors they are creating will impact or in some ways force an evolution in long standing industries. Today we’ll focus on how marketing will likely evolve due to flood of technologies this podcast tires to cover like AI, VR/AR and the meterverse, and even more further out ideas like neurotechnologies like elon musks neuralink. My guests today discuss share some pretty interesting insights into how advanced biometrics are and will help to target consumers, how relational AI help companies build connections with their customers, the coming wave of hyper-personalized advertising which we are starting to see today, and of course the ethical issues connected to all of this and what actions we can take today to prepare for tomorrow. About the Guests: Martin Waxman, MCM, APR, writes a popular Digital Marketing Trends newsletter, conducts AI research and leads digital and AI training workshops. He’s a LinkedIn Learning instructor, adjunct professor at the York Schulich School of Business and associate director of the Future of Marketing Institute. Martin also co-founded two agencies, is president of a consultancy and a member of the Institute for Public Relations Digital Media Research Center. He regularly speaks at events across North America and received the Canadian Public Relations Society’s Outstanding Achievement in PR Award in 2020. Dr. David Rice is a Professor of Marketing and Executive Director of the Future of Marketing Institute at the Schulich School of Business at York University in Toronto, Canada. Dr. Rice teaches primarily in the areas of marketing technology and the future of marketing. He has served as a marketing consultant to many Fortune 500 companies, including Microsoft, Intel, Dell Computers, General Mills, Ford Motor Company, and The World Bank. Website: https://futureofmarketinginstitute.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/future-of-marketing-institute Here are three FMI Newsletter articles. These first two articles all contain more depth on the topics we discussed. The third article is on Generative AI and Subliminal Advertising. We didn’t specifically discuss subliminal advertising, but it is a super interesting (somewhat dystopian) topic, and the article examines how Generative AI can be used. Superintelligence and the Risk of Mass Persuasion: https://bitly.ws/3dFT6 Beyond Text: The Future of Generative AI in Marketing: https://bitly.ws/3dFTR Generative AI and Subliminal Advertising: https://bitly.ws/3dFQQ Timecodes: 00:00:52 - Episode Commences 00:04:04 - Guest Introduction 00:06:44 - David's initial interest in the future of marketing. 00:07:44 - Martin's initial interest in the future of marketing. 00:09:56 - Exploring how marketing has changed with the advent of data. 00:12:00 - Reflecting on the evolution of marketing over the past years. 00:16:56 - Discussing how AI will enhance hyper-personalization in marketing. 00:21:20 - Delving into the ethical issues faced by businesses today. 00:24:12 - Analyzing how businesses are leveraging AI for consumer benefits. 00:31:36 - Exploring the transformation of biometrics from phones to augmented reality. 00:36:24 - Examining how AI is enabling corporations to outperform human agencies in day-to-day operations. 00:39:15 - Assessing the impact of EmiWeb's book on the future of marketing. 00:41:51 - Speculating on the possibility of advertisements directly influencing our brains. 00:46:04 - Sharing resources for listeners to connect with the guests and learn more about the future of marketing. 00:48:37 - Episode Concludes

We delve into the fascinating world of insect farming, exploring its significance in addressing food security and nutrition challenges, and how it offers a sustainable alternative to traditional livestock farming. And this week we focus on another insect the black soldier fly as opposed to crickets or other insects. About the Episode: Environmental Sustainability: We discuss the environmental benefits of insect farming, such as reduced water and land usage compared to conventional animal agriculture, and its potential to mitigate waste production. Challenges and Solutions: We explore the hurdles faced in insect farming, including concerns about toxicity and consumer perceptions, and examine innovative solutions to overcome these challenges. Ethical Considerations: We touch upon the ethical implications of insect farming versus traditional livestock farming, shedding light on the humane aspects and potential benefits of transitioning to insect-based protein sources. Future Outlook: Lastly, we look towards the future of insect farming, discussing its growing industry trajectory, technological advancements, and the evolving public acceptance, highlighting its promising role in shaping a more sustainable and resilient food system. About the Guest: Martin Pike serves as the CEO of Viridian Renewable Technology, where he leverages his extensive background in science and engineering to lead the company's innovative efforts in the insect manufacturing industry. Since the industry's inception in Australia, Pike has been instrumental in developing Viridian’s technology and driving the company's mission towards sustainable and carbon-neutral feed solutions. His work is characterized by a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the exploration of insect-based ingredients as a means to revolutionize feed for pets, plants, and animals, underscoring his pivotal role in the industry's growth and the company's success Website: https://www.viridianrenewable.tech/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/viridian-renewable-technology/ Timecodes: 00:01:27 - Episode Commences 00:07:10 - Introducing Our Guest 00:07:44 - Delving into the Fascinating World of Insect Farming 00:11:20 - Exploring the Critical Role of Insect Farming in Food Security 00:13:28 - Unveiling the Protein Percentage for Black Soldier Fly 00:16:35 - Unpacking the Multifaceted Benefits of Insect Farming 00:19:52 - Understanding the Significance of Gut Health 00:23:56 - Addressing the Challenges of Scaling Up Insect Food Production 00:31:52 - Comparing Flavors: How Do Insects Stack Up Against Higher-Quality Sources? 00:37:40 - Implementing Safety Protocols to Prevent Toxin Bioaccumulation and Emerging Diseases 00:45:15 - Harnessing Technology for Sustainable Insect Agriculture 00:48:44 - Examining the Growth Potential of the Insect Farming Industry 00:51:25 - Envisioning the Future: Will Insect Farming Supersede Traditional Animal Husbandry? 00:55:55 - Wrapping Up: Concluding Thoughts on the Future of Insect Farming

This episode explores the transformative role of XR/VR in enhancing learning and development, through innovative technology applications and insights into future trends in training simulations. About the Episode: In this insightful episode, we delve into the evolution and impact of Extended Reality (XR) and Virtual Reality (VR) on the Learning & Development (L&D) and Educational Technology (EdTech) sectors over the past five years. We explore how XR technology has transformed traditional learning methods through innovative applications, and the integration of eye tracking and biometrics in training simulations to address learning challenges. The discussion also covers the significance of After Action Review for enhancing training outcomes and the role of 3D insights in understanding user behavior in virtual environments. Looking towards the future, we discuss anticipated trends in training simulations and the importance of actionable insights from immersive 3D environments in developing more effective training tools. About the Guest: Tony Bevilacqua is the Founder and CEO of Cognitive3D, a spatial analytics platform that gathers data from virtual and augmented reality experiences in new ways, and turns them into actionable insights. Specifically, Cognitive3D helps companies measure human behavior within 3D simulations. Prior to founding Cognitive3D, Tony co-founded and exited another startup that focused on revenue optimization and data analytics for enterprise customers. Website: https://cognitive3d.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tbevilacqua/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Cognitive3D Timecodes: 00:00:58 - Episode Commences 00:03:12 - Introduction to the Episode 00:06:36 - Welcoming the Guest 00:07:09 - Exploring Initial Fascination with VR 00:09:22 - Tracing the Evolution of Virtual Reality 00:12:10 - Sharing Insights into the Future 00:14:30 - Comparing Vision Pro with Meta Quest 00:16:36 - Exploring VR's Educational Potential beyond Gaming 00:19:52 - Highlighting Educational Applications 00:24:28 - Assessing VR's Utility Relative to Reality 00:27:00 - Integrating VR into Daily Life 00:33:40 - Delving into VR Headset Technology 00:35:17 - Showcasing Business Benefits 00:38:44 - Exploring VR's Potential for Training 00:42:52 - Speculating on VR's Expansion into Other Sectors 00:47:18 - Reflecting on Personal Perspectives on VR 00:49:54 - Examining Immersive Aspects of VR 00:52:46 - Gaining Insights into 3D Environments and Virtual Behavior 00:54:40 - Episode Concludes

This episode explores the transformative role of XR/VR in enhancing learning and development, through innovative technology applications and insights into future trends in training simulations. About the Episode: In this insightful episode, we delve into the evolution and impact of Extended Reality (XR) and Virtual Reality (VR) on the Learning & Development (L&D) and Educational Technology (EdTech) sectors over the past five years. We explore how XR technology has transformed traditional learning methods through innovative applications, and the integration of eye tracking and biometrics in training simulations to address learning challenges. The discussion also covers the significance of After Action Review for enhancing training outcomes and the role of 3D insights in understanding user behavior in virtual environments. Looking towards the future, we discuss anticipated trends in training simulations and the importance of actionable insights from immersive 3D environments in developing more effective training tools. About the Guest: Tony Bevilacqua is the Founder and CEO of Cognitive3D, a spatial analytics platform that gathers data from virtual and augmented reality experiences in new ways, and turns them into actionable insights. Specifically, Cognitive3D helps companies measure human behavior within 3D simulations. Prior to founding Cognitive3D, Tony co-founded and exited another startup that focused on revenue optimization and data analytics for enterprise customers. Website: https://cognitive3d.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tbevilacqua/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Cognitive3D Timecodes: 00:00:58 - Episode Commences 00:03:12 - Introduction to the Episode 00:06:36 - Welcoming the Guest 00:07:09 - Exploring Initial Fascination with VR 00:09:22 - Tracing the Evolution of Virtual Reality 00:12:10 - Sharing Insights into the Future 00:14:30 - Comparing Vision Pro with Meta Quest 00:16:36 - Exploring VR's Educational Potential beyond Gaming 00:19:52 - Highlighting Educational Applications 00:24:28 - Assessing VR's Utility Relative to Reality 00:27:00 - Integrating VR into Daily Life 00:33:40 - Delving into VR Headset Technology 00:35:17 - Showcasing Business Benefits 00:38:44 - Exploring VR's Potential for Training 00:42:52 - Speculating on VR's Expansion into Other Sectors 00:47:18 - Reflecting on Personal Perspectives on VR 00:49:54 - Examining Immersive Aspects of VR 00:52:46 - Gaining Insights into 3D Environments and Virtual Behavior 00:54:40 - Episode Concludes

In this episode, we delve into the world of cricket farming in Australia, discussing its sustainability, nutritional benefits, and the future of insects as a mainstream food source. About the Episode: Welcome to today's episode, where we explore the fascinating world of cricket farming with a pioneering cricket farmer from Australia. As the planet searches for sustainable food sources, cricket farming emerges as a revolutionary solution, offering a high-protein, environmentally friendly alternative to traditional livestock. From pet food to the potential of cricket-based dishes gracing our dinner tables, we'll dive into how this innovative approach to agriculture could transform our food system. Join us as we discuss the ins and outs of cricket cultivation, its nutritional benefits, and the journey of introducing this novel food source into mainstream markets. About the Guest: In this episode, we're joined by Zach Shubert, a dynamic individual whose journey encompasses the realms of nutrition, exercise science, and competitive sports, alongside a deep connection to agriculture. With a degree in nutrition and exercise science, Zach is not only academically grounded in the principles that underpin peak physical performance but also practically applies this knowledge on the global stage. Currently ranked 13th in the world for beach volleyball, he has his sights firmly set on the Olympic Games, embodying the spirit of dedication and excellence. Beyond the courts, Zach has a rich history in agriculture, with experiences in dry land farming and managing an orange orchard, bringing a unique perspective on wellness, sustainability, and the athlete's connection to the earth. Join us as we dive into Zach's multifaceted life, exploring how his diverse background shapes his approach to competition, health, and the environment Website: https://schubugs.com.au/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachery-schubert-4117b7111/ Website resources: https://schubugs.com.au/cricket-farming-policy-1 Timecodes: 00:01:38 - Introduction 00:05:50 - Initial Interest on Cricket Firming/Insect Cultivation 00:09:10 - Why choose Cricket out of all the other Insects? 00:13:04 - Why is a large-scale operation needed for human consumption of insects? 00:18:32 - How many resources does it cost for cricket farming compared to other animals or insects farming? 00:25:55 - Cricket protein compared to other types of proteins? 00:34:54 - Are there any health impacts with cricket powder? 00:37:00 - Is the hype for insects as a food source diminishing? 00:38:30 - Are there any negative aspects of cricket farming? 00:41:46 - What changes for the industry are needed? 00:47:44 - Are there any problems that are slowing the scaling up of cricket farming? 00:50:52 - How helpful A.I. is in terms of insect farming? 00:54:14 - How can people connect 00:54:50 - Conclusion

Explore the edge of computing's future as we unravel the potential of quantum computing to revolutionize industries, overcome today's technological limitations, and unlock solutions to the world's most complex problems. About The Episode: In this episode, we delve into the revolutionary field of quantum computing, a technology poised to solve complex problems beyond the capabilities of current computing methods. We explore the current limitations of quantum computers, including precision issues and high costs, which restrict their accessibility and reliability. Furthermore, we examine how semiconductor technology could offer solutions to these challenges, potentially making quantum computing more scalable and affordable. Join us as we discuss the future applications of quantum computing, from developing new medications and materials to improving weather forecasting, and consider the impact this could have on various industries and our everyday lives. About The Guest: Himadri Majumdar is the co-founder and CEO of SemiQon. Himadri has over two decades of innovation and innovation management experience. Prior to co-founding SemiQon he was the Program Manager for Quantum Technologies at VTT. In that role he led European and Finnish strategic initiatives in quantum technologies. Himadri was also a founding member of the Finnish Quantum technologies ecosystem, InstituteQ, and led the business arm of the ecosystem, BusinessQ. At SemiQon his ambition is to lead the company to build the most scalable, affordable and sustainable quantum processors for quantum computing. He foresees quantum computing, and quantum technology in general, becoming a Finnish and global success story through cooperation and strategic partnerships. Himadri is also trained as an experimental physicist with a Ph.D in applied physics. Website: https://www.semiqon.tech/team LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/himadrimajumdar/ Company intro: SemiQon builds silicon-based quantum processors for quantum computers in the million-qubit era. SemiQon’s mission is to fulfil the promise of quantum computing by delivering scalability through powerful, resilient, and cost-effective quantum processors. SemiQon’s technology builds upon decades of development and know-how from the semiconductor industry, making its silicon processors commercially competitive and well-suited for mass-manufacturing. SemiQon’s quantum processors will make future quantum computers scalable, sustainable and affordable. Founded in 2023 by Himadri Majumdar, Janne Lehtinen, Mika Prunnila, and Markku Kainlauri, SemiQon’s core team brings together over six decades of research expertise in quantum and microelectronics and a strong knowledge of the European and global quantum industry. SemiQon operates out of MICRONOVA pilot line manufacturing facility and its own measurement and testing facilities in MIKES metrology centre, both in Espoo Finland. TimeCodes: 00:04:01 - Guest Introduction 00:05:39 - Initial interest in Quantum Computing? 00:08:15 - How Finland compares to European quantum technology? 00:10:57 - Birds Eye view of Quantum Computing 00:15:09 - What're the unforeseen or foreseen benefits of Quantum Computing? 00:19:25 - Is there any interplay between AI and Quantum Computing? 00:22:15 - What are the challenges in the Future for Quantum Computing? 00:26:59 - How Quantum Computing can be used? 00:28:21 - Availability of Quantum Computing 00:39:09 - Advantages of Quantum Computing compared to Traditional Computing 00:40:45 - Semi Conductor VS Super Conductor 00:44:45 - What is a Cubit? 00:47:51 - The Geopolitical Consequences on Quantum Computing 00:54:51 - Where people can learn Quantum Computing?

In today's episode, we're exploring the fringes of neurotechnology, delving into groundbreaking developments like mind-controlled devices, AI that can visualize our thoughts, and the speculative world of transmitting information directly into the brain. We'll discuss everything from mind-reading helmets and DARPA's Avatar project to the futuristic 2045 project, all while contemplating the potential impact and ethical implications of these advancements. Join us as we venture into a world where thought transmission could revolutionize communication, entertainment, and advertising, marking a new era in the evolution of media. Timecodes: 00:00:32 - Episode Starts 00:01:28 - What's this Episode About 00:03:00 - What's Neurotech 00:05:40 - Looking through minds using Ai 00:08:40 - Specs of Kernels Head Gears 00:12:12 - About DARPA's Avatar Project 00:12:50 - Soldiers Mind Control Military Hardware 00:14:26 - 2045 Avatar Project 00:16:18 - Information sending into the Brain 00:18:44 - Brain to Brain Communication 00:19:26 - About Autonomous Vehicle 00:21:10 - Evolution of idea sharing 00:24:16 - Point of this Episode 00:24:46 - Next step of this Technology 00:26:14 - The End Sources: [Link: https://www.reddit.com/r/interestingasfuck/comments/13sgeq0/girl_completes_elden_ring_using_mind_control/?rdt=35871] AI Drawing from Thoughts: AI technology begins to visualize and draw images based on what people picture in their minds. [Link: https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/tech-news/brain-waves-ai-can-sketch-picturing-rcna76096] Kernel's Mind-Reading Helmet: A $50,000 helmet capable of reading users' thoughts. [Link: https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/a-50-000-helmet-can-read-users-mind-and-its-ready-2466083] Neuralink's Human Trials: Recently conducted first human trial of Neuralink's brain-computer interface technology. Futuristic Neurotech Concepts: DARPA's Avatar Project: Aimed at creating robot soldiers controlled by human minds. Originated in 2012 with no recent updates. [https://www.extremetech.com/defense/118773-darpa-reveals-avatar-program-robot-soldiers-incoming] 2045 Avatar Project: A project led by Russian billionaire Dmitry Itskov, focusing on transferring minds into robots or holograms. [Link: http://2045.com/] Brain-to-Brain Communication: Social Network of Brains:https://www.technologyreview.com/2018/09/29/139965/the-first-social-network-of-brains-lets-three-people-transmit-thoughts-to-each-others-heads/

Today, we're delving into a topic that's increasingly relevant in our rapidly evolving digital landscape: the democratization of AI-generated video technology. While this technology holds immense potential for creativity and innovation in various sectors, it also brings forth complex implications that extend far beyond the realms of media and entertainment and will soon start to impact education, politics, and many other aspects of our society… Timecodes: 00:00:32 - Episode Starts 00:00:46 - Introduction 00:02:12 - About Google's Lumiere 00:04:14 - Lumiere's Abilities 00:06:22 - Examples of what Lumiere can do 00:08:16 - More to see in Lumiere 00:09:10 - Google Lumiere's Societal Impact 00:09:54 - GPT's Impact on other A.I. 00:12:06 - Content Creation Creating new Horizons 00:13:26 - Rise of Independent Content Creators 00:14:42 - The 2nd Machine Age 00:16:02 - Creation of new Ethical Issues 00:17:58 - Synthesia's Avatar Product 00:20:16 - Erosion of Trust In today's Images and Videos 00:22:26 - The End Sources: Google’ Lumiere: https://lumiere-video.github.io/ Lumiere Paper: https://arxiv.org/abs/2401.12945 Evolution of AI video generation over 1 year. 1. AI beer commercial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Geja6NCjgWY&ab_channel=ScottChristianSava 2. The Frost - AI generated short film: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QW-NFkVDfdA&ab_channel=NathanSebhastian 3. Google’s lumiere: https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=1&v=wxLr02Dz2Sc&embeds_referring_euri=https%3A%2F%2Flumiere-video.github.io%2F&source_ve_path=MzY4NDIsMjg2NjY&feature=emb_logo&ab_channel=InbarMosseri

In today's episode we delve into the concept of Connected AI and the latest innovations in the generative AI space, exploring how these technologies are increasingly weaving into our daily tools and products. About the Episode: In this episode of Future Tech and Foresight, we celebrate the first anniversary of ChatGPT’s launch, reflecting on its remarkable evolution and the booming generative AI industry. We delve into the concept of Connected AI and the latest innovations in the generative AI space, exploring how these technologies are increasingly weaving into our daily tools and products. The discussion centers around the future trajectory of generative AI, including ChatGPT and its competitors, and their potential impacts on various sectors. About the Guest: Steve Marcunik, a serial entrepreneur and co-founder and general manager of Intelligent Relations, joins us to discuss the concept of Connected AI and its future implications. Steve's expertise lies in leveraging AI innovations to aid start-ups and growing tech companies in enhancing their online presence and media coverage. As the chief architect of the Preston AI platform, he coordinates daily operations and strategic initiatives, focusing on driving organizational growth and keeping pace with AI advancements. Timecodes: 00:00:51 - Episode Begins 00:07:50 - Introduction of Guest 00:08:14 - Exploring the Initial Interest in Generative AI 00:12:33 - Any Shocking or Notable Moments in Recent AI Innovations? 00:16:35 - Potential Placement of AI in Future Processes 00:23:58 - Are Companies Prepared for These AI Processes? 00:31:14 - Highlighting Specific AI Projects Worked On 00:37:21 - Perspectives on AI Potentially Replacing Jobs 00:43:38 - Challenges Faced While Implementing AI Tools 00:48:11 - Observations and Trends in AI Evolution 00:55:56 - Discussing the Implications of Self-Learning AI on the Internet 00:57:25 - Additional Contact Information and Invitations for Engagement 00:58:15 - Concluding Remarks

Welcome to our first episode of 2024. The past year was a landmark one for emerging technologies, with developments like ChatGPT capturing global attention and igniting a renewed interest in AI. As we step into 2024, it's time to explore the tech trends that are poised to shape the year ahead. We've combed through numerous reports and articles to bring you the most significant trends impacting our technological landscape, saving you the effort of sifting through them all. But there's more – for those who may have missed the excitement of CES 2024, we're spotlighting several groundbreaking technologies that were on display. These innovations not only align with the trends we've identified but also signal new directions in technology that are likely to gain prominence. It's shaping up to be an electrifying year in tech, and we're excited to guide you through these advancements and discoveries, offering insights into the future of technology and its impact on our lives. Timestamps: 00:00:32 - Episode Starts 00:03:12 - Exponential Tech Growth 00:03:37 - No. 7 - Sustainable Technology 00:04:37 - No. 6 - Metaverse & Special Computing 00:07:20 - No. 5 - Quantum Computing 00:10:00 - No. 4 - Crypto Winter 00:12:38 - No. 3 - Wearables 00:14:46 - No. 2 - Digital Trust 00:19:36 - No. 1 - Artificial Intelligence 00:23:26 - Extras 00:23:42 - Ex (No. 1) - Interpreter Hub 00:24:08 - Ex (No. 2) - Celestron Origin 00:27:29 - Ex (No. 3) - My Own A.I. 00:28:28 - New project undertaking 00:29:29 - Conclusion Sources: -https://www.linkedin.com/posts/amywebb_what-technology-will-matter-most-in-2024-activity-7143237007329095680-qfZj/?trk=public_profile_like_view -https://mailchi.mp/futuretodayinstitute/2023-annual-letter https://www2.deloitte.com/content/dam/insights/articles/us176403_tech-trends-2024/DI_Tech-trends-2024.pdf -https://www.simplilearn.com/top-technology-trends-and-jobs-article -https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/tech-trends-to-watch-in-2024/ -https://ignitetech.com/about/blogs/future-now-exploring-top-tech-trends-2024 -https://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/tech-trends-2024-report-six-trends-of-the-generative-enterprise-revealed-by-info-tech-research-group-888750247.html -https://www.siliconrepublic.com/machines/quantum-computing-trends-2024-sectigo-tim-callan -https://techcrunch.com/2024/01/12/ces-2024-everything-you-need-to-know/ -https://techcrunch.com/2024/01/09/2648953/

As AI continues to advance, a critical but often overlooked aspect comes into play – AI labeling, or human input, which remains a vital cog in the machine of AI development. About the Episode: AI labeling isn't just a technical process; it's a burgeoning industry worth well over $5 billion, with only a fifth of its potential market currently tapped. This leaves an expansive room for growth, innovation, and opportunities. It's a field that's not just fueling the AI revolution but is also a significant contributor to job creation in the tech world itself. In today's episode, I'm excited to have Ahmed Rashad, the CEO of Sapien.io, join us to explore this dynamic realm. We'll delve into how AI is fundamentally altering our world, the critical role of data labeling in AI development, and the challenges and evolution of this essential process. Ahmed will also shed light on the cutting-edge work happening at Sapien.io and share his vision for the future of data labeling, the future of jobs, and AI in general. About the Guest: Ahmed Rashad, a leader in the tech industry, currently leads as the CEO of Sapien. He has an impressive academic background with a degree in Engineering from MIT. Ahmed Rashad's expertise in product management and business growth was honed through key roles at Amazon as Head as a General Manager, and at McKinsey in RTS and M&A. His notable tenure at Scale AI as Head of Growth saw him building and managing data labeling operations, hiring over a million human labelers. Website: https://www.sapien.io/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ahmed-r-23a92014/

The abrupt firing of Sam Altman from the helm of OpenAI, followed by his equally surprising reinstatement, hinted at something that spooked the company's board—a development so significant it rattled the very foundations of this AI industry leader. OpenAI's internal drama didn't just raise eyebrows; it triggered a wave of speculation about what could have scared an organization at the forefront of AI research. This episode will dive into the series of events that led to this tumultuous period in OpenAI's history, and will explore what potentially sparked fear and fascination in equal measure Other sources: Digital Trends - What is Project Q*? The mysterious AI breakthrough, explained DevX - OpenAI Develops Q* for Enhanced Math Problem-Solving Decrypt - What is Q* and Q-Learning? OpenAI Could Have Imploded Over AI Fears NextBigFuture.com - OpenAI Q Star Could Have a Mostly Automated and Scalable Way to Improve MIT Technology Review - Unpacking the hype around OpenAI’s rumored new Q* model Overall Description: What Is Q*? The Leaked AGI BREAKTHROUGH That Almost Killed OpenAI

Today, we're zoning in on a niche yet rapidly evolving segment of AI: chatbots and personalized AI assistants. About the Episode: Joining me in this exploration is Peter Voss, a pioneer in the AI industry. We're unpacking some critical areas today, from the current challenges in call centers to the revolutionary impact of hyper-personalized AI in customer service. We’ll compare the early iterations of chatbots with the advanced capabilities of platforms like Aigo, which Peter has been instrumental in developing. Our conversation goes beyond just the technicalities; we discuss the economic and social implications of blending AI with human interaction in business settings. How do these AI-driven systems stack up against human agents? What unique features does Aigo bring to the table, especially when compared to other popular platforms like ChatGPT? And importantly, where is this technology heading? About the Guest: Peter Voss, is a renowned figure in the world of Artificial Intelligence. A serial entrepreneur, engineer, and inventor, Peter has a rich history in electronics engineering and software development. His journey in AI began with a quest to understand and replicate human intelligence, leading him to coin the term 'Artificial General Intelligence' (AGI). As the Founder, CEO, and Chief Scientist at Aigo.ai, Peter is at the forefront of revolutionizing conversational AI technology. His current mission is to provide hyper-intelligent, hyper-personal assistants to enhance customer experiences and engagement. A visionary in AI, Peter's contributions extend beyond technology into philosophical discussions about rational ethics, free will, and the future of artificial minds. His work at Aigo.ai is not just a technological advancement but a step towards redefining how we interact with AI in our daily lives Website: https://aigo.ai/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vosspeter/ Articles mentioned in the podcast: https://arxiv.org/abs/2308.03598 https://arxiv.org/abs/2309.01622 https://medium.com/intuitionmachine/what-is-agi-99cdb671c88e

Joining me today is Noah Gedrimas, an expert in autonomous technology. We'll be discussing some of the new innovations in the autonomous vehicle space, the innovative Ground Positioning Radar technology by GPR, and the current and future challenges in the field of autonomous driving. About the Episode: Today, we're revisiting a topic that's been a recurring theme on this podcast: the transformative world of autonomous vehicles. Over previous episodes, we've discussed the technological marvels and challenges of self-driving cars and delved into the intricacies of long-haul trucking automation. Now, we're about to go even deeper into this subject, exploring the sensory technology that is pivotal in making autonomous vehicles a reality. In our world, where the importance of autonomous vehicles in shaping the future of transportation cannot be overstated, understanding the nuances of these technologies becomes crucial. Autonomous long-haul trucking, in particular, stands at the forefront of this revolution, promising to reshape the logistics and transportation industry with unprecedented efficiency and safety. About the Guest: As the Vice President of Strategy at GPR, Noah Gedrimas spearheads the commercial strategy and partnerships, with a keen focus on pioneering advancements in autonomous driving. His journey in this field includes significant contributions to the development of Ground Positioning Radar™ (GPR) technology, a groundbreaking innovation for precise vehicle localization. Noah's expertise is not just confined to GPR; his tenure at Continental Automotive saw him deeply involved in the development of autonomous vehicles tailored for various Operational Design Domains. Noah's comprehensive understanding of autonomous technology makes him a valuable voice in discussing the future of self-driving vehicles. GPR Website: https://gpr.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/noah-gedrimas-14307960/ Noah's email: Noah(at)gpr.com

Exploring the complex role of social media in shaping global conflict narratives, this discussion navigates through its polarizing effects and the amplification of emotions, while also highlighting its potential for democratizing information and fostering a more informed community Sources: SpringerLink Study on Social Media and Ukraine-Russia ConflictResearchGate Study on Sentiment Analysis of Twitter DataNieman Journalism Lab ArticlePsychology Today Article on Tribalism in Social MediaPsychology Today Article on Social Media Algorithms and PolarizationThe Phoenix Article on Social Media and Critical Thinking

In this episode, we tackle the intricate balance between technological growth and its potential for misuse in society, examining scenarios from Hamas's low-tech warfare to the unsettling future of tech in the hands of bad actors—a reflection on the duality of human innovation. Over the weekend I had a conversation with a client who was asking about the growth of technology and it’s impact on society and the future, and as these conversations tend to go, it melded into the most recent news cycle with the situation in Israel and Palestine. Specifically we discussed Hamas using low tech rockets and bombs for their terrorist activities only because they don’t have access to more advanced technology. Apparently most of their bombs incorporate household products like baking soda and fertilizer amongst other compounds and the explosions are actually pretty small in comparison to modern bombs. Now, if they had access to it, how much more powerful their attacks would be with more advanced technologies? Our conversation spiraled down this route and into what are some of the kinds of instruments that current and future bad actors may be able to get their hands on. But this isn't just about one geopolitical hotspot. It's a microcosm of a more significant global challenge. Throughout history, technological advancements have always presented both incredible opportunities and daunting challenges. For instance, the Wright brothers might have dreamt of a world interconnected by flight, yet it was commercial airliners, symbols of that very dream, which were repurposed as missiles during the tragic 9/11 hijackings. In a similar vein, while the discovery of various chemicals has led to breakthroughs in medicine and industry, they've also been weaponized, as evidenced by the deadly Sarin gas attacks in the Tokyo subway in 1995. The digital realm is not immune either; as we usher in an era of global connectivity, we also witness its dark side. The 2017 WannaCry ransomware attack, which affected over 200,000 computers across 150 countries, showcases the dangers lurking in our interconnected world. As technology becomes increasingly accessible and powerful, its potential for misuse grows in parallel. As technology advances at an unprecedented rate, its democratization ensures that advanced tools, once exclusive to state actors or big corporations, become cheaper and more accessible, amplifying the potential for misuse by a broader range of bad actors. Today, we'll dive into this concern, exploring some scenarios where exponentially growing tech could exponentially grow threats to civilians and our collective society. There are of course a number of recent and well known examples, many of which have already been talked about on the podcast before. These include: 3d printed guns like the 99% plastic liberator, miniaturized or portable nukes which have been even in mainstream media for several years, cheaply assembled weaponized drones which we’ve even seen play a role in the Ukraine-Russian conflict but have been used to bring attention to the larger autonomous weapon issue with the viral 2017 ‘slaughterbot’ arms-control advocacy video, and of course social media being manipulated for political means as shown through the cambridge analytica scandal. But there are also, depending on the person of course, less well known and perhaps more future oriented emerging technologies that will give non-state bad actors more opportunities for violence. Other sources: https://www.hoover.org/research/technology-converges-non-state-actors-benefit https://www.brookings.edu/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/FP_20211122_ai_nonstate_actors_kreps.pdf https://www.jstor.org/stable/23257139 https://www.brookings.edu/articles/democratizing-harm-artificial-intelligence-in-the-hands-of-non-state-actors/ https://www.visionofhumanity.org/emerging-technologies-and-terrorists/

Exploring the transformative power of AIOps, this episode delves into its pivotal role in streamlining IT operations and shaping the future of IT management About the Episode: As the complexity of IT ecosystems grow, teams are often overwhelmed, leading to longer downtimes, inefficiencies, and, ultimately, frustrated end-users. Enter AIOps - Artificial Intelligence for IT Operations. Born from the need to streamline and enhance IT operations, AIOps has rapidly become the go-to solution for managing today's multifaceted IT environments. From its inception to its modern-day relevance, today we'll dive into the world of AIOps, understanding its challenges, evolution, and future prospects, especially in the wake of breakthroughs like Generative AI. To help us decode this intricate domain, I'm thrilled to have on board an expert in the field, Trent Fitz. About The Guest: Trent Fitz is a veteran with over two decades of leadership in the realms of cloud computing, AI, and cybersecurity. As the Chief Product Officer at Zenoss, Trent oversees both product strategy and global marketing. His extensive career portfolio boasts pivotal roles at trailblazing firms like Nimboxx, SailPoint Technologies, which was acquired by Thoma Bravo, and Trustwave, later secured by SingTel. Beyond these ventures, he has provided invaluable insights in product strategy and business development through his consulting practice. A cornerstone of tech, Trent's foundation is rooted in a computer engineering degree from the University of Oklahoma. Website: https://www.zenoss.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trent-fitz/

In this episode, we explore the intricate world of autonomous trucking, emphasizing how simulations are shaping the development of self-driving technology for long-haul vehicles. We'll delve into the challenges, advancements, and the future outlook of an industry on the cusp of a transportation revolution About the Episode: Everywhere you go, whether it's the local grocery store or a large shopping mall, there's one thing that stands true: the goods you see have most likely been on a truck. The vast network of roads, highways, and truck stops can really be seen as the lifeblood of most modern economies. Trucking doesn't just bring us our favorite products; it creates jobs, fuels businesses, and quite literally, keeps our world turning. As important as this industry is, it does have its fair share of safety concerns due to excessively long hours worked by the typical trucker, changing weather environments, and other issues that we get into today. But, as technology has been rapidly evolved, there's a new chapter on the horizon for this sector: autonomous trucking." Today, we're looking into how the marriage of autonomy and trucking is set to redefine this space. We'll be understanding the intricacies of developing self-driving tech specifically for trucks and see how they differ from their smaller, urban vehicle counterparts. We're going to look at what Level 4 autonomy signifies, the foundational role that simulations play in perfecting these systems, and the broad-scale implications on employment, safety, and the way we envision transportation. To guide us on this journey, I'm thrilled to have an expert who has been at the forefront of these innovations Robert Rossi. About the Guest: Robert is TuSimple’s senior vice president of Autonomous Systems. Robert brings extensive experience in leading AI and autonomous systems, leveraging his engineering and business leadership experience from Microsoft and TomTom. At Microsoft, Robert led a successful international standardization campaign for JPEG-XR (ISO 29919), a high dynamic range image coding technology. He led the core media processing team that delivered image, video, and audio experience for Windows and Xbox. Before joining TuSimple, Robert was SVP of engineering for Autonomous Driving at TomTom. Robert holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical and Electric Engineering from Michigan Technology University. Robert really sheds light on some of the fascinating aspects of autonomous vehicle technology, and for me, clearly lays to rest any doubt as to how this technology might be so much safer than current human drivers. Website: https://www.tusimple.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tusimple/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/TuSimple.Inc Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1rzOfH_gmqojX7-g3df2VA

Explore the fundamentals of quantum computing in this episode. We discuss its potential applications, its current challenges, and the possible impact on our future tech landscape. Join us as we break down this complex topic and look ahead to what the next decade might bring Sources: https://www.ibm.com/topics/quantum-computing https://hbr.org/2021/07/quantum-computing-is-coming-what-can-it-do https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-023-01692-9 https://thequantuminsider.com/2023/06/19/advantages-of-quantum-computing/ https://www.thedigitalspeaker.com/quantum-computing-change-world/

In conversation with Grant Furlane, we delve into the transformative potential of smart cities, discussing current initiatives, technological drivers, and what the future holds for urban living in the digital age. About the Episode: In a world where technology intersects with every facet of our lives, the idea of Smart Cities has been expanding and taking root as quickly as technologies have been emerging. In my discussion with Grant Furlane, a veteran of the transportation industry, we unravel how technology forms the bedrock of smart cities. We explore how these digitally connected frameworks not only streamline urban services but markedly improve the quality of life for residents. Our conversation ventures into the most promising trends in smart city technology, the indispensable technologies that fuel this urban transformation, and the challenges that loom on the horizon. We also shed light on some groundbreaking smart city initiatives that are paving the way for our possible urban future, and touch on some of the possible negative aspects of this fascinating trend. Stay tuned as we delve into the intricate tapestry of smart city technology and its potential to redefine urban living. About the Guest: Grant Furlane is a seasoned professional with over four decades of experience in the transportation, network security, and parking sectors, with a notable emphasis on Smart City initiatives. With a rich history of tech ventures across Asia since 1989 and involvement in over $500 million in technology investments, Furlane has been a trailblazer in developing innovative solutions for tracking and monitoring vehicle movement. His enterprises have pioneered integrated control systems crucial for major airports, hospitals, and parking lot management. Among his accolades are the TIE50 top technology award from Silicon Valley and the Ted Seaburg award. He currently is the CEO of LocoMobi World a smart city technology company specializing in parking, tolling, transit, storage, asset tracking and threat management solutions. And he is co-host of the SmartCity.blog podcast that looks at how buildings, cities and communities are getting smarter, more efficient and more connected. Locomobi World: https://www.locomobiworld.com/ Smart City Podcast: https://www.thesmartcity.blog/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-furlane-19a2b7b/