FUTUREPROOF.

In this episode, host Jeremy Goldman explores the fascinating intersection of AI, education, and language learning with his guest Steve Toy, the CEO of Memrise - a renowned language learning app. Toy, who has an extensive background in technology, mobile apps, and artificial intelligence, shares his insights on the transformative power AI can have in enhancing how we acquire new languages.He explains how AI enables personalized learning experiences by tailoring content to individual interests, filtering multimedia resources based on one's vocabulary level, and facilitating conversational practice through AI-powered chatbots. These capabilities essentially allow learners to replicate the immersive experience of being in the native country. Toy also highlights AI's role in providing valuable tools like pronunciation feedback and vocabulary games to cement learning.While acknowledging the ethical considerations around ensuring equitable access to AI across different markets to prevent widening socioeconomic gaps, Toy remains optimistic that freemium models can help democratize access to some extent. Beyond the practical applications, he emphasizes the broader cognitive, social, and career benefits of becoming multilingual. Most importantly, Toy believes learning languages fosters cross-cultural understanding - something vitally needed in today's increasingly divisive world. His perspective offers an inspiring vision for AI's potential to transform not just language acquisition but also cross-cultural connections.

In this episode of FUTUREPROOF, we're diving into the fast-paced world of financial technology with Atif Siddiqi, founder and CEO of Branch. The company strives to revolutionize payment methods by offering instant, digital solutions that enhance worker satisfaction and promote financial wellness. Atif discusses how Branch aligns with emerging payment technologies like FedNow and addresses the demand for quicker access to earnings, especially within the gig economy. We explore the challenges of traditional payment systems, Branch's innovative strategies for improving user experience, and the regulatory landscape affecting fintech. Join us for a deep dive into the future of payments and financial health.

In this episode, we dive deep with Alison Taylor, a clinical associate professor at NYU Stern, focusing on the organizational aspects of corporate responsibility and ethics. Drawing on her vast experience and research, Alison's new book "Higher Ground" explores the ethical quandaries businesses confront in today's complex world. We'll unpack how leaders can prioritize ethical commitments amidst diverse challenges, the pitfalls of transparency, the systemic issues beyond the 'bad apples' myth, and the real substance of corporate 'purpose.' Join us as we explore how to navigate business ethics in a rapidly evolving landscape, seeking a path to genuine integrity and accountability.

In this episode, we dive deep with Nick Romeo into the heart of economic myths and the visionary paths toward a just and sustainable economy. Drawing on his extensive reporting, Romeo challenges long-held beliefs, showcasing innovative global efforts that redefine success beyond profit. From purpose trusts like Patagonia to Oslo's climate initiatives, he illuminates a future where economies serve all, not just the few. Join us for a riveting journey into "The Alternative" - where moral action shapes our collective destiny.

In this enlightening episode, we delve into the complexities of human decision-making with Professor Dan Ariely, a leading figure in psychology and behavioral economics at Duke University. Through a series of probing questions, we explore the "Funnel of Misbelief" framework, the impact of stress on misbelief, and the influence of social cohesion on our beliefs. Ariely offers insights into the challenges posed by advanced AI in spreading misinformation, and outlines societal measures for rebuilding trust. We also discuss the pivotal role of education and discourse in enhancing critical thinking and resilience against misinformation, drawing from Ariely's extensive research and personal experiences.

Welcome to today’s episode of FUTUREPROOF. where we dive into the fascinating intersection of technology, food, and health with our esteemed guest, Raina Kumra. Raina is a beacon of innovation and dedication, with a career spanning over two decades in the tech industry, now turned start-up founder and food activist. Her mission? To revolutionize our access to nutrient-dense food and enhance health at a global scale.After witnessing firsthand the transformative power of Ayurvedic practices on her family's health during the pandemic, Raina embarked on a new journey beyond the realms of Big Tech and Big Pharma, into the heart of Big Food. Named one of Fast Company’s Most Creative People in Business, Raina's storied career has seen her making waves from digital advertising with giants like Nike and Coke, to serving as an innovation diplomat at the U.S. Department of State, and co-founding a tech start-up.Today, she brings her wealth of experience, creativity, and passion to Spicewell, aiming to tackle nutrient deficiencies head-on. In this episode, we’ll explore Raina’s unique approach to blending her tech savviness with food activism, the hurdles she’s navigated in the food industry, the impact of celebrity endorsements on Spicewell, and her vision for the future of functional foods. Join us as Raina Kumra shares her insights, experiences, and the lessons learned on her journey to making healthier eating accessible to all.

We're thrilled to host Kence Anderson, a trailblazer at the forefront of autonomous AI in the industrial sector. Kence brings a wealth of experience from his tenure as the director of autonomous AI adoption at Microsoft to his current role as CEO of Composabl, where he's redefining the landscape of intelligent automation with a platform designed to democratize the creation of autonomous agents. With a remarkable track record of designing over 150 autonomous decision-making AI systems for large enterprises, Kence has mastered the art of bridging the gap between cutting-edge AI technology and practical industrial application.In this episode, Kence will unpack the essentials of effective collaboration between AI technologists and industrial stakeholders, share the ambitions behind his 'Introduction to Industrial AI' course, and provide a firsthand look at how autonomous AI can revolutionize industries by optimizing processes in real-time. We'll delve into the synergy of AI for Perception and Action in enhancing automation, tackle the challenges of deploying AI-powered systems, and explore the transformative potential of machine teaching. Plus, Kence will highlight the game-changing advantages of Composabl's no-code platform, making the power of AI accessible to all, regardless of their technical background.Join us as we navigate the future of industrial automation with Kence Anderson, discovering how today's AI innovations are paving the way for a smarter, more efficient world.

Today, we dive into a conversation with award-winning science writer Eve Herold, discussing her latest book, "ROBOTS AND THE PEOPLE WHO LOVE THEM: Holding on to Our Humanity in an Age of Social Robots." This book, hailed by Publishers Weekly as a captivating and clear-eyed analysis of androids’ shortcomings, explores the transformative role of socially interactive robots in every aspect of modern life, from friendship and work to love and warfare.In today’s episode, we unravel the complex web of human-robot interactions. Eve sheds light on her inspiration behind the book and shares surprising discoveries about our evolving relationship with robots. We delve into the ethical implications of robots capable of reading and reacting to human emotions, the potential of AI and robotics in therapeutic settings, and the future of work and employment in a world increasingly reliant on automation.Join us as we navigate these uncharted waters, examining how robots might change human culture and address issues of loneliness, and even ponder the possibility of robots developing psychopathic personalities. Prepare to be challenged and inspired as we discuss whether our future cohabitants will enhance or endanger our humanity. 

Welcome to this episode of FUTUREPROOF, where we delve into the intricate world of AI and data quality with Curtis G. Northcutt, the visionary CEO and Co-Founder of Cleanlab. With a prestigious background, including a PhD in Computer Science from MIT and impactful roles at Google, Meta, and Oculus, Curtis is at the forefront of AI innovation. Today, he'll share insights from his journey, discussing the critical issue of data hallucinations in AI and their profound industry implications. We'll explore the challenges of ensuring data accuracy, particularly in large language models, and the ripple effects on sectors like healthcare, finance, and legal. Curtis will also shed light on the roles of regulatory bodies, collaborative industry efforts, and the ethical landscape of AI deployment in sensitive areas. Finally, we'll look ahead to how AI and machine learning technologies are evolving to tackle data quality and hallucinations. Prepare to be enlightened by the expertise of a leader who is defining the future of AI. Let's dive in!

Welcome to another FUTUREPROOF, the podcast where we dive into how to succeed in the world of tomorrow. Today, we're thrilled to have Kate Bravery, a trailblazing organizational psychologist and one of the co-authors of the enlightening new book, "WORK DIFFERENT: 10 Truths for Winning in the People Age." Kate brings her global experience from China to the UK and her expertise from Mercer, the leading people strategies firm, to discuss sustainable people management in the post-pandemic era. In this book, they delve into transforming employees into contributors, cultivating empathy-driven cultures, and leveraging AI for workplace equity. Drawing on her collaboration with the World Economic Forum and her insight into workforce trends, Kate shares valuable lessons on navigating staffing and management challenges in these transformative times. Stay tuned as we explore the future of work with Kate Bravery, where every insight promises a step towards a more resilient and fulfilling workplace—let’s jump right in.

Today I’m thrilled to bring Alan Eagle to you to discuss his new book, Learned Excellence, with Eric Potterat. If you don’t know Alan, he’s Eagle is an author and executive communications consultant, helping leaders and companies shape and tell their stories. He spent 16 years at Google, partnering with executives to communicate the company’s story to clients, partners, employees, and the public. He is the co-author of the books How Google Works and Trillion Dollar Coach, and the author, all by himself, of seven letters-to-the-editor published in Sports Illustrated. He has never won the New Yorker Caption Contest.  To give you a little tease of the new book, on shelves now, we discuss why we care so much about what other people think, the 10 techniques we can use to handle stress and achieve the excellence we crave, why balance is so critical to prevent burnout, and more. So without further ado, let’s jump right in!

Welcome to another FUTUREPROOF, the podcast where we dive into how to succeed in the world of tomorrow. And if there’s one thing we learned from 2023, it’s that the intersection of technology and ethics is going to be critical to that world in 2024.In today's episode, we're joined by Dr. Nick Mattei, a distinguished Assistant Professor of Computer Science at Tulane University and an expert in the intersection of AI, Big Data, and ethics. With a background that includes time with the IBM TJ Watson Research Laboratory, Nick brings a unique perspective on how AI and advanced technology are shaping our society. As AI regulation discussions unfold on Capitol Hill, his insights into the ethical implications of these technologies are more relevant than ever. We'll explore the challenges of managing massive data, balancing personalized marketing with ethical standards, and the importance of transparency and consumer trust in the age of AI. Get ready for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Nick Mattei, a visionary in the AI academic community, who is guiding us through the complex yet fascinating world of AI and ethics.

Welcome to another FUTUREPROOF, the podcast where we dive into how to succeed in the world of tomorrow. And frankly, I don’t think any of us can succeed in that world if we don’t get a firm grasp on the topic of sustainability. Today, we're delighted to have Michael Bayr, Head of Communications at Ucon Acrobatics, a trailblazer in sustainable fashion. With a career that started with co-founding Be-Mag, the oldest roller skating magazine, Michael has been at the forefront of design and cultural trends for over two decades. At Ucon Acrobatics, he's pioneering sustainable practices in the production of bags and backpacks, transforming the industry with a commitment to eco-friendly materials and circular economy principles. Join us as we delve into how Ucon Acrobatics is revolutionizing sustainability in fashion, the challenges of sustainable production, and the future of eco-conscious design. Get ready for an insightful conversation with Michael Bayr, a leader reshaping the way we think about fashion and sustainability.

InDrive, a ride-hailing app where passengers name their price and drivers respond, recently launched in Miami. Popular in Latin America and Asia, InDrive is now entering markets like Africa and the U.S., offering no commission to drivers until January 2024 and a minimum $10 fare in Miami. The app, tackling challenges like long wait times, focuses on markets with limited mobility and prioritizes sustainable growth.Today, we're joined by Adam Warner, Operations Strategy Director at InDrive. Adam, who moved from Lyft to InDrive, advocates for fair wages and surge-free fares. He's dedicated to making ride-hailing equitable for everyone.Adam will discuss InDrive's innovative pricing model, its effects on the rideshare market, gig worker protections, and AI's role in the gig economy. We'll also cover the changing regulations affecting drivers and riders worldwide.Join us for a conversation with Adam about revolutionizing gig work, the technology reshaping rideshare, and its worldwide implications. This talk is crucial for those interested in transportation's future.

In today’s episode, we delve deep into the transformative role of digital technologies in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. With the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) highlighting that over two-thirds of these goals can benefit directly from digital advancements, our discussion focuses on the urgency and methods to accelerate solutions for global challenges. It’s important to explore how businesses can harness technologies like AI, advanced materials, and 3D printing not just for growth, but for the betterment of our planet and its inhabitants. Joining us to navigate this complex yet fascinating terrain is Mar-cha Hoek, a distinguished figure in the realm of sustainable business and capital. Marga, a three-time CEO, Chair, and Board Member, has been a global voice for the G20 and is celebrated for her visionary, purpose-driven leadership. Her work has earned her numerous accolades, including being recognized by Thinkers50 for her global management thinking. As the author of influential books like "New Economy Business," and "The Trillion Dollar Shift," and now her latest, "Tech for Good," she has been a trailblazer in marrying technology with sustainability.In our conversation with Marga, we'll address some critical questions. How do we define the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and why is it pivotal in addressing today's societal challenges? What are some examples where AI, like generative AI, has driven positive change? We'll also discuss the potential of advanced materials in the fight against climate change, the integration of 4IR technologies in business for sustainable efficiency, and the role of investors in advocating for 'Tech for Good' practices. Additionally, Marga will share her insights on how new technologies can foster a more diverse and inclusive job market and the intriguing use of 3D printing in coral reef restoration.

Alain Sylvain was a really incredible die guy who is the founder and CEO of Sylvain, a strategy and design company headquartered here in New York City he also played a key role in the number of organizations including his alma mater Vassar College and kindred and networking organization for DEI and E.S.G. professionals and he also serves on New York City's mayor's creative council. He leaves behind three children and his wife after passing away suddenly at age 47 last week and he had so much to say that I really felt this was a good opportunity to share some of it with you. And it's almost wrong of me to say that he had so much to say in the past tense because the reality is he still has quite a lot to say that we can learn from about brand purpose and about how companies don't have to choose between doing good and being profitable. So I wanted to bring one of my past conversations with him from this podcast back to you guys in honor of him. From his family: One way to help honor and build on the community of love that Alain created is to direct donations to Anseye Pou Haiti and the Haitian Education and Leadership Program.

Welcome back to another scintillating FUTUREPROOF conversation! Our guest this week is with Babak Pahlavan, an incredible mind in the world of technology and AI. A product thinker and a seasoned entrepreneur who sold his startup CleverSense to Google in 2011, then spent more than a decade with the company, Babak brings a wealth of experience to his new venture, Ninja Tech, which is looking to revolutionize the AI space. In this interview, Babak shares his insightful perspectives on the evolving roles of AI as co-pilots and autopilots in our lives, tackling both the technical intricacies and the broader impacts on society. His vision for a future where AI enhances human capabilities is not just fascinating—it's a glimpse into a world where technology and empathy intersect. So, buckle up and get ready for a thought-provoking ride into the future, starting right now.

 In a world where GenAI's influence is inescapable, from Hollywood disruptions to the talk of the advertising industry, how is it truly shaping the media business? Today on FUTUREPROOF. we're diving deep with Alex Persky-Stern, CEO of the trailblazing startup Waymark. They're not just talking about GenAI; they're revolutionizing commercial video production with it. After creating a sensational short feature with DALL-E generated images alone, Waymark could be looked at as a beacon of GenAI's potential. But what truly ignited the birth of Waymark? Alex will unpack that story for us. We'll also venture into the often debated realm of copyright infringement in GenAI and explore its future implications. How will GenAI transform creative job roles, and what does it mean for the digital ad spend? Comparing the might of GenAI to the revolutionary power of the internet — Alex shares his insights. As we touch upon the synergy between AI and human creativity, be prepared for an episode brimming with revelations and forward-thinking perspectives. 

Today, we're diving deep into a topic that touches every corner of our digital lives: technology overload. Our special guest, Mat Ellis, CEO of Sixty AI and seasoned entrepreneur, is here to unravel the startling findings of a recent survey, revealing the alarming impact of our constant connectivity. With over 85% feeling overwhelmed by pings and alerts, and a staggering majority lamenting the blurred lines between work and personal time, we're in the midst of a digital crisis. But there's hope. Mat, with his rich background ranging from Frito-Lay to Goldman Sachs, and then diving into the world of startups, is championing a movement to redefine our relationship with technology. As the founder of Cloudability and now leading Sixty AI's mission to 'Take Back Your Time,' he's on the frontline of creating tools that prioritize our mental well-being in a world of ceaseless digital chatter. We'll explore the groundbreaking AI behind Sixty AI, the vision for a balanced digital future, and the urgent call for a digital detox. Prepare for a conversation that's not just about technology, but about reclaiming our time, our sanity, and our human connections.

Have you ever wondered why, in a world where we can speak three times faster than we type, we're still relying on outdated buttons and touchscreens? Today, we're diving deep into the revolutionary world of voice technology with none other than Tobias Dengel, the author of 'The Sound of the Future: The Coming Age of Voice Technology,' on shelves now. As the President of WillowTree, a digital experience developer recently acquired for $1.3 billion, he's shaped digital strategies for global giants like T-Mobile, HBO, and Mastercard. We're about to uncover the potential of voice tech way past early attempts like Siri and Alexa, understand its transformative power across industries, and discover the profound shifts awaiting the financial sector and beyond. Plus, we'll touch on the key challenges, privacy concerns, and the tantalizing future of this groundbreaking technology. Stay tuned for an enlightening conversation, starting right now: