Crazy Wisdom

In this episode of the Crazy Wisdom Podcast, host Stewart Alsop interviews Soledad D'Agostino, a tech industry veteran with experience at Google, YouTube, and Microsoft. Throughout the discussion, they dive into her work in global marketing, the evolution of YouTube within Latin America, and her role in launching large livestream events for the platform. They take on topics like the impacts and potential of AI, how AI is revolutionizing the tech industry, and the philosophical questions it brings to the forefront such as the question of AI's sentience and the concept of a soul. Soledad emphasizes the importance of having 'people with healthy values' involved in the development and control of AI, viewing it as vital to the future of humanity. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to the Crazy Wisdom Podcast 00:40 Meet the Guest: Soledad D'Agostino 01:15 Soledad's Journey from Buenos Aires to Google 02:39 Exploring the Evolution of YouTube 03:34 Behind the Scenes of Live Streaming 05:45 The Rise of Twitch and the Future of Live Streaming 08:56 The Impact of AI on the Tech Industry 12:27 The Role of AI in Solving Global Challenges 21:58 The Intersection of AI and Knowledge Management 29:09 The Role of AI in Humanity's Future 29:53 The Impact of AI on Different Industries 30:38 The Inevitability of AI Integration 31:02 The Power of Generative AI 32:07 The Intersection of AI and Knowledge Management 32:44 The Evolution of Search Engines and AI 34:40 The Future of AI in Product Design and Art 35:16 The Philosophical Implications of AI 37:38 The Potential of AI in Problem Solving 37:49 The Ethical Considerations of AI 38:51 The Role of AI in Art and Design 40:21 The Future of AI in Business and Society 45:21 The Spiritual and Philosophical Questions Raised by AI 52:10 The Future of AI in Biology and Environment 55:05 The Need for Ethical Leadership in AI 56:05 Conclusion and Contact Information Key Insights Career Path and Experience: Soledad discussed her journey from starting at Google in 2011 to work on Google Ads, transitioning to YouTube, and eventually spearheading the global marketing for Google Pixel Fold. She emphasized the evolution of her roles, highlighting her experience in marketing and product development across major tech companies. Evolution of YouTube and Live Streaming: Soledad played a crucial role in the development of YouTube in Latin America and then in live streaming globally from New York. She discussed the complexities and excitement of managing large-scale live events like Coachella and Lollapalooza, detailing the integration of brand partnerships and the challenges of live stream production. Impact of AI on Technology and Marketing: She expressed optimism about the potential of AI in revolutionizing various sectors, including marketing and technology. Soledad believes AI has been integral to Google's operations even before it became a forefront technology and sees it as a pivotal tool in addressing major global issues like the climate crisis. Philosophical and Ethical Considerations of AI: The conversation delved into the philosophical aspects of AI, particularly around creativity, art, and the human soul. Soledad pondered whether AI-generated art could possess the same emotional depth as human-created art, differentiating between technical perfection and the expression of a human soul in artistic works. AI in Product Design and Functional Applications: Soledad distinguished between AI applications in artistic creativity and functional design. She supported the use of AI in enhancing technical design, such as safer architectural structures, while expressing reservations about its role in pure artistic creation. AI, Humanity, and Future Challenges: The discussion touched on the broader implications of AI for humanity, drawing parallels with pivotal historical discoveries like nuclear energy. Soledad emphasized the importance of having people with sound values and intentions involved in AI development to ensure its benefits are maximized for humanity. Knowledge Management in Tech Companies: The conversation included a segment on knowledge management within tech companies, with a focus on Google’s approach. Soledad highlighted Google’s Knowledge Hub and other internal resources as key tools for disseminating and managing knowledge within the company. Personal Preferences and Public Presence: Soledad mentioned her limited public presence on social media, preferring professional platforms like LinkedIn for interactions and networking.

This is a new series of Crazy Wisdom where I invited my dad Stewart Alsop II to bring people from his past as a tech journalist and uncover the best stories from the 1980s, 90s and early 2000s about the personal computing revolution and apply them to the AI revolution currently happening. Our first guest Donna Dubinsky talks about her career experiences at Apple, handheld innovator Handspring, her work as the CEO of Palm (of the Palm Pilot handheld mobile device), and current AI work at Numenta. She and Stewart Alsop II both go deep on how the personal computing industry led to the mobile revoltuions and now how we got to where we are today. Dubinsky encourages listeners to stay tuned to developments at NatCast, her current project associated with the CHIPS Act. If you subscribe to chatGPT4, check out this GPT we trained on the conversation Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and the AI Revolution 00:50 The AI Bubble and Lessons from Past Revolutions 01:28 Invitation to Engage with the Podcast 02:04 Introducing the Special Guest: Donna Dubinsky 02:31 Reminiscing about the Past: The Agenda Conference 03:30 The Evolution of Computing Devices 06:14 The Changing Landscape of the Computer Industry 06:58 The Ubiquity of Computing and the Future of the Chips Industry 08:11 The Evolution of Apple and Personal Device Preferences 14:28 The Journey of Numenta and the Future of AI 29:15 The Evolution of Mainframes and the Future of AI on Phones 37:31 The Early Days of the Tech Community 38:30 Transition from Mainframes to Personal Computing 39:04 The Launch of the Palm Pilot 41:30 The Evolution of the Microcomputer Business 42:59 The Role of Government in Advancing Technology 44:46 The Challenges of Manufacturing and Design in the Tech Industry 01:08:05 The Impact of Pricing on Perceived Value 01:09:17 The Highs and Lows of the Palm Pilot Journey 01:12:26 Current Work in AI and the CHIPS Act Key Insights Early Days of Computing and Mainframes: Initially, computing was not a common feature on everyone's desk. Mainframes, the early giants of the computing world, were massive and expensive, accessible only to large corporations and the government. These machines were housed in special rooms and were far from being personal or portable​​​​. Transition to Client-Server Models and Personalization: Computing started evolving with the development of client-server architecture. From the large, centralized mainframes, the industry moved to a model where computing was more distributed. Time-sharing systems allowed multiple users to access mainframe resources, leading to a gradual democratization of computing power. This shift laid the groundwork for the development of personal computers​​. The Era of Desktops and Handheld Devices: The next significant shift was the move to desktops and eventually to handheld devices. This evolution represented a dramatic change in how people interacted with computers, making them more personal and portable. The podcast mentions how devices like the Apple II brought computing into educational settings, revolutionizing how people could use these tools​​​​. The Impact of the Palm Pilot: The Palm Pilot is highlighted as a significant milestone in personal computing. Before the Palm, handheld devices were simply smaller versions of existing technology. The Palm Pilot, however, adopted a different approach. It did not try to replicate all functionalities of a PC. For instance, it did not support printing directly, positioning itself as a window or client to the PC, thus embracing a kind of client-server model. This decision not only made the device more practical and focused but also less expensive to support​​. Evolution of Form Factors: The podcast discusses the evolution of computing devices in terms of form factors. There were three main form factors: desktop (too big to carry), notebook (fit in a briefcase), and handheld (fit in a pocket or purse). Each form factor was defined by how users could physically carry and interact with these devices. It was believed that devices falling between these form factors would not be successful, although this was later proven not entirely accurate with the success of intermediate devices like tablets​​.

In this episode of the Crazy Wisdom Podcast, Stewart Alsop interviews Nader Khalili, the CEO and Co-founder of BrevDev, a company making it easier to use GPUs for machine learning applications. They delve into the details of BrevDev's work, discussing AI infrastructure, the advantages of fine-tuning over training AI models from scratch, and the evolution of user experience with AI systems. Khalili shares insights about CUDA, a software suite used to leverage GPUs' power, and details how BrevDev simplifies this process. They also compare the work processes and results of remote vs non-remote work teams and share thoughts about future developments in AI. The broad spectrum of AI software applications is touched upon, highlighting the potential benefits for businesses. If you are a subscriber to GPT4 check out this GPT we trained on the episode TImestamps 00:00 Introduction to the Crazy Wisdom Podcast 00:40 Guest Introduction: Nader Khalil, CEO of BrevDev 00:49 Understanding BrevDev and its Role in GPU Usage 01:40 Deep Dive into CUDA and its Importance in AI Applications 02:40 Exploring the Challenges and Opportunities in AI Development 03:37 The Intricacies of Distributed Computing and Programming 05:12 The Role of Abstraction in Engineering and AI 06:46 BrevDev's Approach to Simplifying GPU Configuration 07:50 The Future of Fine Tuning and AI Development 11:05 The Impact of AI on Business and Software Development 22:00 The Role of Notebooks in Machine Learning and AI 24:04 Addressing Infrastructure Problems in Tech 24:21 The Challenges of Accessing GPUs 25:06 The Art of Model Training and Optimization 26:27 The Evolution of GPU Production 28:09 The Role of GPUs in Model Training 32:10 The Impact of AI on Business 33:38 The Vibrant Tech Scene in San Francisco 41:01 The Future of Deep Tech and AI 43:32 Closing Remarks and Contact Information Key Insights Simplifying GPU Use with BrevDev: BrevDev focuses on making GPUs easily accessible and usable for various purposes, especially in AI and machine learning. The platform connects to different data centers, manages hardware requirements, and sets up necessary environments like CUDA and Python versions, essentially abstracting the complexities of configuring GPUs for end-users. Understanding CUDA: CUDA (Compute Unified Device Architecture) is pivotal for AI applications as it allows for more powerful operations on NVIDIA GPUs. Nader explains CUDA as a low-level, highly capable software suite that can be challenging for application developers used to working at higher abstraction levels. Evolution of AI Applications: The conversation touches upon the Cambrian explosion in AI, emphasizing that the current boom isn't just about more noise from existing AI practitioners but a significant expansion, including application developers transitioning to AI development. The key challenge is the abstraction layers and ensuring that application developers can work without needing to understand the lower-level intricacies like CUDA. Business Philosophy and Team Dynamics in Startups: Nader discusses the importance of having a close-knit, collaborative team, especially when dealing with complex and rapidly evolving technologies. He emphasizes the preference for in-person collaboration in the early stages of a startup to facilitate better information flow and decision-making. Fine-tuning vs. Training AI Models: The podcast sheds light on the distinction between training AI models from scratch and fine-tuning existing models. Fine-tuning is presented as a more accessible entry point for businesses looking to leverage AI, focusing on how businesses can use their unique data to enhance pre-trained models for specific applications. Future of GPUs and Computational Infrastructure: Nader talks about the advancements in GPU technology, like the transition from A100s to H100s, and the challenges in accessing and utilizing these resources efficiently. He also hints at the potential shifts in computational infrastructure with new startups innovating in the GPU space. The Role of San Francisco in Tech Innovation: The podcast touches on the cultural and entrepreneurial dynamics of San Francisco, emphasizing how the city attracts and fosters a community of builders and innovators, particularly in the tech and AI sectors. Advent of Distributed Computing and Future Paradigms: There's a philosophical discussion about the future of computing, particularly around distributed, peer-to-peer, network-based software and the impact of machine learning models that can process and compress vast amounts of high-dimensional data.

In this episode of the Crazy Wisdom Podcast, the Stewart Alsop interviews Jonathan Pritchard, a mentalist, sales trainer, and part of Zavant Enterprises. The pair delve into their shared interest in Urbit, a unique peer-to-peer server providing an alternative to the Internet. Jonathan shares his journey from beginning magic as a child and evolving into a corporate consultant and sales trainer using the same principles used in his performances. By applying science, psychology, and the understanding of human thought processes, Jonathan showcases how businesses can improve their practices, performance, and even web presence. He also discusses overcoming personal and technological barriers, understanding business losses and optimizing corporate interaction. Finally, he offers an insightful critique on today’s education, comparing it to the unexplored riches of magic techniques developed over millennia. Check out this GPT we trained on the conversation (if you are already subscribed to GPT4) Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to the Crazy Wisdom Podcast 00:37 Guest Introduction: Jonathan Pritchard 01:18 Exploring the Wackiness of Erbit 01:43 Jonathan's Journey to Discover Erbit 03:27 Understanding the Internet through the Lens of a Mentalist 04:04 The Art of Mentalism and Mind Reading 04:46 The Illusion of Understanding: A Mentalist's Perspective 05:41 The Internet: A Monocrop of Consciousness 09:06 The Future of the Internet: A Decentralized World 10:01 The Challenges and Opportunities of Urbit 11:42 Building a Community on Urbit 27:47 The Intersection of Magic, Business, and Urbit 31:32 The Art of Business and Magic 31:49 Understanding the Human Mind and Magic 32:59 The Universality of Magic Tricks 35:25 The Impact of Magic on Personal Life 35:50 The Power of Perception and Magic 37:39 The Journey from Stage to Corporate World 38:44 The Art of Negotiation and Presentation 39:45 The Magic of Attracting and Retaining Attention 42:13 The Influence of Magic on Branding 46:02 The Intersection of Magic and Business 57:25 The Power of Language and Translation 58:17 The Role of Magic in Sales and Marketing 01:01:55 Closing Remarks and Future Plans Key Insights: Mentalism and Business: Pritchard's background as a mentalist gives him a unique perspective on human psychology and behavior, which he applies in business contexts. He discusses the application of mentalist techniques in sales training, negotiations, and corporate presentations, emphasizing the importance of understanding human psychology and communication. Technology and Urbit: Pritchard shares his fascination with Urbit, a decentralized computing platform. He sees it as aligning with his personal and professional philosophies. He describes Urbit as a high-return investment, both technologically and philosophically, and appreciates its potential for creating a diverse and decentralized digital culture. Corporate Training and Personal Development: Pritchard leverages his skills as a mentalist to train corporate teams in areas like sales, negotiation, and effective communication. His approach in corporate training involves using magic and mentalism principles to engage and teach key business skills. Internet and Digital World Critique: He criticizes the current state of the internet, describing it as a monoculture that limits diversity of thought and experience. Pritchard advocates for a more fragmented, decentralized internet, like Urbit, to encourage more diverse and independent cultural development. Magic and Mentalism in Business: The principles of magic and mentalism, according to Pritchard, can greatly influence business strategies, particularly in areas like marketing, branding, and customer engagement. He emphasizes the importance of creating memorable experiences and connections, much like a good magic show does with its audience. Personal Branding and Marketing: Pritchard discusses the significance of personal branding, using historical figures in magic as examples of successful branding and archetyping. He suggests that the techniques used in magic for audience engagement can be effectively applied in marketing and building a personal brand.

In this episode of the Crazy Wisdom Podcast, Stewart Alsop interviews Sharon Zhang, co-founder and CTO of Personal.ai. They delve into the challenges and potential of autonomous AI agents, the role of data in machine learning, and the ongoing development of Personal.ai. Sharon shares how the utilization of various programming languages and architectures has shaped the AI system, which was designed to provide personalized experiences for every user while protecting their privacy. They also discuss the future of open-source data, the possibilities of data monetization, and the evolution of AI. Sign up for the model 2 event tomorrow (Jan 10th, 2024) where the Personal.AI team will present the new model they are releasing Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to the Crazy Wisdom Podcast 00:40 Guest Introduction: Sharon Zhang, Co-founder and CTO at Personal.ai 00:54 Discussing the Technical Aspects of Personal.ai 02:16 Exploring the Evolution of Machine Learning 03:27 The Journey of Automating Medical Transcription 06:04 The Challenges of Building Personal AI 12:00 The Importance of Data Sovereignty 21:43 The Technicalities of Building APIs 23:13 Understanding the Types of Data Used for Training Personal AI 28:22 Understanding Language Models and Predictions 28:57 Exploring Cause and Effect in Decision Making 29:27 Linear vs Nonlinear Behavior 30:11 The Theory of Mind and Predictability of Humans 31:40 The Role of AI in Predicting Human Behavior 32:40 Complexities of Predicting Human Behavior 42:13 The Future of AI: Superintelligence and Autonomy 48:11 The Challenge of Building Autonomous Agents 53:55 The Potential of Open Source Data in AI Development 55:21 Closing Remarks and Future Plans Key Themes Development of Personal AI: Sharon Zhang discussed the complexities in building personal.ai, emphasizing the importance of full-stack development with multiple languages like Java, Python, and JavaScript frameworks. The focus was on creating a unique AI experience that is tailored to individual users. Evolution of Machine Learning and AI: The conversation touched upon the history and evolution of AI and machine learning. Zhang reflected on the transition from support vector machines to more advanced techniques like transformers, highlighting the significant advancements in the field. Data Privacy and Decentralization in AI: A significant portion of the discussion revolved around data privacy, user sovereignty, and the decentralization of AI. Zhang emphasized the importance of users being able to control their data and the concept of a decentralized AI that operates on a personal level. Challenges in AI Development: The technical challenges in developing AI systems, such as building scalable and efficient data models, handling diverse data types, and creating dynamic, user-specific AI models were discussed. This included the complex infrastructure required for such an AI system. Future of AI and Autonomy: The podcast delved into the future of AI, specifically the concept of autonomous AI agents. The discussion included the current limitations and the potential evolution where AI could make independent decisions and possibly coexist with humans. Open Source and AI Data: The conversation highlighted the need for more open-source data to further AI development and the potential for a marketplace for data exchange. The challenges of data availability and quality in building effective AI models were also discussed. Impact of AI on Society: There was a philosophical discussion about the role of AI in society and its potential to be the next evolutionary step for humanity. This included thoughts on how AI might reshape our understanding of autonomy and decision-making.

In this episode of the Crazy Wisdom Podcast, Stewart Alsop explores various complex topics such as artificial intelligence (AI), the Christian faith and the potential impacts each one can have on modern society. Matthew Bosch shares his personal journey of converting to Christianity in adulthood, as well as his perspective on the intersection of religion and AI. He points out the potential dangers involved with AI, specifically regarding the human tendency for 'God Complex', and agrees with the host in asserting the necessity of a spiritual or higher power to help people navigate life's complexities. Both the Stewart and Matthew also express concern over how AI can potentially be used to 'hollow out' the human soul. Furthermore, Matthew shares several biblical stories and teachings to illustrate his points, including King Solomon's life and the concept of 'Just Wars'. If you are subscribed to GPT4 you can ask questions of what happened in the episode here Timestamps 00:39 Guest Introduction: Matthew Bosch 01:09 Matthew's Journey to Christianity 03:47 Understanding the Concept of Christianity 05:03 Exploring the Mystery of the Holy Trinity 10:25 The Concept of Salvation in Christianity 13:15 The Intersection of Technology and Christianity 17:51 The Ethical Dilemmas of AI in Business 22:13 Investments and Nonviolence in Christianity 23:02 Just War Theory and Modern Conflicts 23:20 Automatization and Moral Complexity 25:41 C.S. Lewis's Perspective on War and Religion 27:17 Exploring Eastern Philosophies and Reincarnation 30:00 The Role of God and Morality in Modern Society 35:26 The Power of Technology and Its Implications 39:03 Critiques of Organized Religion 41:38 Finding Community and Living Values in Religion 43:03 Closing Thoughts  Key Topics Discussed: Matthew Bosch's Personal Journey: Transition from secular society to Christianity. Reflections on finding faith and its impact on personal and professional life. The Role of Christianity in Modern Society: Discussion on the relevance and application of Christian values in today's secular environment. The challenge of maintaining faith in a technology-driven world. Intersection of AI and Spirituality: Ethical implications of AI in society and its potential to influence human behavior and decision-making. Debate on whether AI advancements are leading humanity towards or away from spiritual values. Understanding the Trinity: A philosophical exploration of the Christian concept of the Trinity and its significance. The Concept of Salvation in Christianity: Insights into the Christian perspective on salvation and its relevance in the contemporary world. Reflections on Biblical Stories and Their Modern-Day Parallels: Parallels drawn between historical biblical events and current global and technological scenarios. Impact of Technology on Human Existence and Morality: Discussion on how technological advancements are reshaping human morality and the potential consequences. The Role of the Church and Religion in Modern Times: Critique of the church's approach to addressing contemporary issues and its evolution over time. Personal views on the role and responsibilities of religious institutions today.

The Crazy Wisdom Podcast features a wide-ranging conversation with Simone Collins, a serial entrepreneur, investor, and co-host of the Based Camp podcast. Topics explored include the concept of 'based' in the context of the podcast, the crisis of belief in authority, the role of AI in governance and its potential to improve bureaucratic efficiencies. Simone shared her views on the impact of demographic collapse on cities and illustrated the potential future of 'techno-feudalism' where power and money concentrate within isolated, secure communities. The discussion also touched upon the role of cryptocurrencies as an alternative during hyperinflation scenarios, based on experience in countries like Argentina. The episode ends with a brief discussion about the potential ways to evade an 'Argentine future' for the US, predicated on curbing bureaucratic waste. Here is a GPT we trained on this episode if you want to ask it questions (you need to be a subscriber to GPT4 to access) Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to the Crazy Wisdom Podcast 00:40 Guest Introduction: Simone Collins 01:04 Understanding the Term 'Based' in Podcasting 02:19 Navigating Political Conversations in Progressive Cities 02:45 Breaking Free from Restrictive Beliefs 03:28 Hosting Diverse Dinner Parties 04:15 Challenging Progressive Culture 04:31 Personal Journey of Changing Political Beliefs 06:03 The Limitations of Progressive Culture 08:08 Engaging with Controversial Ideas 15:46 The Patchwork Age: A New Era of Diverse Beliefs 16:59 Technofeudalism: The Future of Cities and Infrastructure 23:36 The Impact of Demographic Collapse 26:28 European Influence and Immigration in Southern Brazil 27:02 The Impact of Emigration on Argentina 27:15 The Role of Tourism in Argentine Emigration 27:40 Hyperinflation and its Effects on Infrastructure 27:45 The Future of the U.S. Dollar in a Hyperinflated World 29:09 The Role of Cryptocurrency in Economically Unstable Countries 30:55 The Black Market and the U.S. Dollar in Argentina 32:13 The Rise of Cryptocurrency in Argentina 32:52 The Necessity of Cryptocurrency in Developing Countries 33:08 The Adoption of Cryptocurrency by Non-Tech Savvy Individuals 35:22 The Impact of AI on Bureaucracy 35:44 The Role of AI in Government and Politics 38:52 The Future of the U.S. Government in an AI-Driven World 39:41 The Impact of AI on Corporate Governance 40:30 The Role of AI in Reducing Government Bureaucracy 44:11 The Future of the U.S. Government Amidst Demographic Collapse 44:39 The Role of AI in the Future of Governance 47:04 The Impact of Bureaucracy on the Argentine Economy 47:57 The Future of the U.S. Economy Amidst Rising Debt 49:36 The Role of AI in the Future of the U.S. Economy 50:36 The Future of the U.S. Government Amidst Rising Debt 51:05 The Role of AI in the Future of the U.S. Government 51:38 The Future of the U.S. Government Amidst Rising Debt 51:51 The Future of the U.S. Government Amidst Rising Debt 52:34 Conclusion Key Insights The Concept of 'Based': Simone Collins discussed the term 'based,' highlighting its varied interpretations. Initially understood as someone comfortable with their beliefs, regardless of others' opinions, it has evolved to carry political connotations and baggage. The term now often implies a conservative leaning, especially when contrasted with progressive viewpoints. Cultural and Political Dynamics in New York City and San Francisco: Collins shared her experiences growing up in San Francisco and living in New York City, describing them as progressive environments where there's a prevalent culture of not tolerating differing opinions. She observed that progressive culture often equates being challenged or uncomfortable with personal attacks, impacting open dialogue. Diverse Dinner Parties and Political Dialogues: Collins and her husband host dinner parties in New York City, deliberately inviting a heterodox mix of people, including conservatives, progressives, and others with unconventional views. She noted that criticisms of these gatherings typically come from progressive attendees who feel uncomfortable with conservative perspectives. Personal Political Shifts: Stewart shared his journey of political and ideological transformation, particularly around the time of Donald Trump’s election. This shift was a process of questioning and reassessing his long-held beliefs. Demographic Collapse and its Implications: Collins expressed concerns about demographic collapse, particularly in countries like South Korea and Japan. She discussed how this phenomenon might lead to a decline in smaller cities and towns, with a corresponding rise in mega-cities or gated communities. The Role of AI in Future Societies: The conversation touched on the potential impact of AI on governance and societal structures. Collins speculated about a future of 'techno-feudalism,' where AI-driven communities could emerge, leading to a patchwork of different societal models. Cryptocurrency in Economies Facing Hyperinflation: The host and Collins discussed the practical use of cryptocurrencies in countries like Argentina and Venezuela, where traditional currencies are highly unstable. This situation contrasts with the speculative nature of cryptocurrencies in more stable economies like the U.S. Government Bureaucracy and Potential AI Solutions: Collins suggested that AI could streamline government functions and reduce bureaucracy. However, she acknowledged the challenge of implementing such changes due to entrenched interests and the complexity of government structures. Potential for Change in U.S. Governance: The conversation ended on a note of cautious optimism about the possibility of reforming U.S. governance structures, particularly at the state level, despite recognizing the significant challenges ahead.  

In this episode, Sam Atman, a developer with a background in biochemistry, shares his insights on the discussions around artificial intelligence (AI) safety. Oppen dismisses concerns about AI becoming a rogue actor, attributing such fears to religious neurosis and misunderstanding of the nature of AI. He argues that AI systems, such as Language Models (LLMs) like OpenAI, do not have personal motives or embodiment comparable to human intelligence. He also discusses AI's potential impact on creative fields such as art and music, and stresses the importance of tracing the connection between AI outputs and the training data. Finally, Oppen cautions against lobbying for government regulations on software and artificial intelligence, asserting that it could lead to dystopian outcomes. Show Notes 00:02 Introduction and Guest Background 00:17 Exploring Weird Software and Programming Languages 01:09 Deep Dive into Hoon and Urbit 03:51 The Current State and Future of Urbit 10:26 AI Safetyism and the Regulation of GPUs and Software 18:17 The Nature of Intelligence and Consciousness in AI 25:43 The Misconceptions and Absurdities in AI Safetyism 29:28 Understanding AI Alignment and Training 30:14 AI Misconceptions and the Reality of AI Systems 30:53 Exploring the Concept of Lossy Compression in AI 31:04 The Impact of AI on Internet Accessibility 31:45 Understanding Attention Transformers in AI 32:39 AI and the Controversy of Training Data 39:53 The Evolution of AI: From Simple Calculations to Complex Synthesis 46:15 The Ethical Dilemma of AI in Art and Music 50:48 The Legal Implications of AI in Art and Music 54:09 Final Thoughts on AI: Potential, Misconceptions, and Future Key Insights Hoon's Uniqueness: Hoon, a programming language for the Urbit project, is noted for its unusual and esoteric qualities, resembling runes and creating a steep learning curve which filters for dedicated developers. Urbit's Development and Influence: Urbit, a new internet and permissionless network, is in a critical development phase. Although it has a small user base, it's highly active, with most users also contributing as developers. Urbit's Future Viability: Urbit's success may partly depend on the decline of conventional alternatives. It offers a private, peer-to-peer social media alternative, setting it apart from mainstream platforms. Concerns Over AI Regulation: There is skepticism about the push for government regulation of AI, particularly around the use of GPUs for AI development. This could lead to an administrative oversight over software, potentially stifling innovation. Artificial Intelligence Misconceptions: There's a critique of the belief that AI could develop dangerous autonomy or consciousness. AI, especially language models, are seen as sophisticated tools lacking the embodiment that characterizes human intelligence. Neural Networks and Machine Learning: The conversation touches on the evolution of AI, including the shift from voice-to-text and image classifiers to current large language models, highlighting the continuous advancement in AI capabilities. Generative Art and Copyright Issues: AI-generated art raises questions about copyright and the use of training data. Artists' concerns about AI models replicating their styles without compensation or acknowledgment are highlighted. Sampling Analogy in AI Art: The analogy between music sampling and AI-generated art is made, suggesting that AI art could face similar legal challenges regarding the use of original artists' work in training data. AI's Potential Misuse vs. Its Nature: While AI can be used negatively by bad actors, it's emphasized that AI itself won't become a bad actor, as it lacks agency and consciousness. Sam Atman's Online Presence: Finally, for those interested in following Sam's work, his main platform is Twitter, where he shares his thoughts and developments in his field.

In this episode, the host, Stewart Alsop, takes a deep dive with Suman Kanuganti, the co-founder and CEO of personal.ai. They discuss the concepts of Personal Language Models (PLM), artificial intelligence, and the UX of AI systems. Suman presents the idea of creating personalized AI for every individual to preserve their memory and enable people to interact with it, thus introducing a new way to retain and access human knowledge. They also touch upon the impacts of AI on the way history will be told and remembered in the future. We built a Custom GPT trained on this episode for you to interact with. Try this prompt with it: What are Suman's thoughts on the evolution of personal AI? Key Insights Introduction to Personal AI: Discussion on the concept of Personal AI, an AI version of oneself that leverages personal data, facts, and opinions to create interactive experiences for others. Origin of Personal AI: Suman Kanuganti shares his inspiration behind Personal AI, motivated by the loss of his mentor, Larry Bok, and the desire to maintain intellectual and emotional connections. Nature of Personal AI: Unlike current Large Language Models (LLMs), Personal AI focuses on individual memory, including context, location, and personal history. It grows over time, assimilating various aspects of an individual's life. Explicit vs. Implicit Memory: Exploration of the concept of explicit memory control in Personal AI, ensuring intellectual integrity, and distinguishing it from implicit inference. Personal AI's User Experience: Discussion on the evolution of the user experience in Personal AI, highlighting how it started before the hype of current LLMs like GPT-3. Integration with LLMs: Insight into how Personal AI integrates with general LLMs to enhance user experience and fill gaps in personal knowledge. Challenges and Solutions in Personal AI Development: Suman Kanuganti discusses overcoming challenges related to UX design, data training, and market adaptation. Future of AI Interaction: Speculation on the future modalities of interacting with AI, including voice, virtual avatars, and potential integration into the metaverse and synthetic biology. Vision and Persistence in Developing Personal AI: Suman Kanuganti reflects on the journey of developing Personal AI, emphasizing the importance of vision and overcoming resistance and challenges in the tech industry. Historical Implications of Personal AI: A closing thought on how Personal AI could change the way history is recorded and told, with individual memory shaping personal narratives.

This podcast features a discussion with Seba Tut, an expert practitioner and facilitator of Aguahara. They explore the concept of Aguahara, a therapeutic experience in water. Seba shares his view on its spiritual, practical, and therapeutic aspects, and how it fosters surrender, intuition, and adaptability. He also discusses the connections between Aguahara and broader cultural and technological trends, integrating perspectives from ancient wisdom, water therapies, and the challenges of modern life. The podcast also covers Seba's plans for sharing Aguahara through a round trip journey across Latin America and potentially further afield. If you want to find out what happened in this episode, we trained this ChatGPT for you 00:04 Introduction and Guest Presentation 00:22 Understanding Aguahara: A Deep Dive 02:46 The Origins and Evolution of Aguahara 06:35 The Role of Water in Aguahara 06:51 The Birth of Aguahara and Its Connection to Water 14:18 Exploring the Practice of Aguahara 27:14 The Healing Power of Aguahara 35:18 The Aquatic Consciousness in Aguahara 36:40 Discussing Life's Struggles and the Aquatic Revolution 38:25 The Power of Empathy and the Impact of the Psychedelic Movement 38:47 The Emergence of Holistic Views and the Power of Communication 39:54 Exploring the Concept of Connected Minds and Astrology 40:30 The Transition from Pisces to Aquarius Era 41:42 The Power of Words and the Impact of AI 43:29 The Potential of AI and the Age of Magic 53:11 Exploring the Concept of Personal AI 57:04 The Influence of Hollywood and the Perception of AI 59:23 The Power of Touch and the Healing Potential of Water 01:03:35 The Future of Aguahara and the Power of Community Key Points Definition of Aguahara: Seba Tut described Aguahara as difficult to define succinctly. It is seen as both a territory and an exploration, an aquatic experience that cannot be fully captured in a simple definition. It invites curiosity and personal experience to truly understand what it is. Origin and Influences: Aguahara is influenced by and considered a descendant of older practices like Watsu (water shiatsu) and Water Dance. These were developed independently in California and Switzerland, respectively. Aguahara also has roots in Jansu, another aquatic therapy developed in an Osho ashram in India. The Role of Water: Water is central to Aguahara, not just as a medium but as an element that influences the practice. The therapy often takes place in warm water, similar to body temperature, but can also be conducted in cooler waters. The water facilitates relaxation and movement. Connection to Other Practices: Aguahara draws from various traditions and practices, including tantric explorations, shiatsu massage, and dance. It is seen as a combination of these elements, adapted to an aquatic environment. Development and Evolution: Aguahara evolved through experimentation and collaboration among practitioners, who brought their learnings and understandings from other therapies and movement practices. Philosophical and Spiritual Aspects: The discussion touched on broader philosophical and spiritual themes, such as the mystery of water and the mind, the concept of surrender, and the interplay of intuition and intention. Practical Aspects of Aguahara Sessions: Sessions typically involve entering the water, surrendering to the experience, and allowing the facilitator to guide movements. The experience can be therapeutic and involves elements of touch, movement, and a deep connection with water. The Cultural and Social Context: The conversation also delved into the broader cultural and social implications of practices like Aguahara, discussing aspects like community, empathy, and the human connection with nature.

Interact with this episode using this bot that Crazy Wisdom trained to be your companion to this episode This in-depth conversation provides invaluable insights into running a tech startup in Argentina. Former Rappi executive, Lucas Assad, discusses the challenges faced by businesses in an unpredictable economy marked by hyperinflation and rapid changes in exchange rates. Using his experiences in managing Rappi and his present venture dealing with imported construction materials, Lucas explains the complexities of Argentina's entrepreneurial ecosystem. One must be street-smart and agile, adept at handling the unpredictable. Equally, there's a resilience brought out in entrepreneurs dealing with these trying conditions. This podcast also takes a detour, analyzing the complexities of the food delivery business, the competition, and unrest in the marketplace, especially in comparison to the USA. 00:02 Introduction and Guest Background 01:11 Discussing Entrepreneurship in Argentina 06:25 Impact of Government Policies on Business 07:51 Exploring Successful Latin American Startups 12:01 Challenges and Opportunities in Argentine Business Environment 19:59 Effects of Currency Devaluation on Business 24:20 Impact of Rappi on Argentine Market 29:33 Unexpected Encounter and Introduction to Rappi 29:58 Expansion of Rappi in Latin America 31:55 Competition in the Food Delivery Market 33:17 Challenges in the Food Delivery Business 33:30 The Importance of Perfect Delivery 34:33 Balancing Supply and Demand in Food Delivery 35:10 The Role of Restaurants in the Delivery Ecosystem 36:08 The Financial Aspects of Food Delivery 44:17 The Impact of the Pandemic on Food Delivery 45:34 The Future of Food Delivery Businesses 50:27 Transition from Tech to Construction Key Discussion Points: Background and Introduction: Lucas Assad, a friend of Nico (previously interviewed), is an entrepreneur with experience in both traditional business and the tech startup world. He transitioned from the pharmaceutical industry to tech startups, playing a significant role in Rappi's expansion in Argentina. Entrepreneurship in Argentina: Discussion on the unique challenges and opportunities in Argentina due to political and economic instability. Examples include hyperinflation and rapidly changing laws. The concept of being "street smart" (DNA in Spanish) in Argentina, highlighting the need for agility and adaptation in business. MercadoLibre and Rappi: Insights into successful Latin American startups like MercadoLibre and Rappi. The impact of these platforms on daily life and the economy. Differences between MercadoLibre's evolution and Rappi's rapid expansion. Challenges of Food Delivery Business: Exploring the operational difficulties of running a food delivery service like Rappi. The importance of balancing supply and demand, and maintaining customer satisfaction. The role of technology in managing logistics and enhancing customer experience. The Pandemic's Impact: How Rappi adapted and grew during the pandemic, particularly in Argentina. A notable surge in orders for products like ice cream and the importance of adapting offerings to consumer demands. Sustainability of VC-Funded Startups: Discussion on whether companies like Rappi represent sustainable business models. The role of venture capital in scaling businesses rapidly and the potential pitfalls of this approach. Lucas's Current Endeavors: Transition from tech startups to a more traditional business model. Lucas is currently involved in importing construction materials, aiming to capitalize on the anticipated construction boom in Argentina. Contact Information: Lucas Assad can be reached via Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn under the name "Lucas Assad". His email address is asadlucas@gmail.com.

In this episode of the Crazy Wisdom Podcast, host Stuart interviews Maranda Dziekonski, a CS executive and CCO. They talk about business, touching on topics like the importance of human aspects in business, the power of having a strong mission, and addressing company crises. Dikonsky also explains how she defines business and shares intriguing insights about the role of philosophy in business. Further, they discuss the state of manufacturing in the U.S. and how AI might affect the world of work. She also provides tips for startups on maturing while maintaining their core ethos. The conversation delves into contrasting the perceptions around the end of San Francisco's reign as a tech hub. 00:02 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:23 Understanding Business: A Deep Dive 01:03 The Importance of People in Business 03:04 Bridging the Gap between Ideals and Reality in Business 07:08 The Role of Philosophy in Business 07:22 The Human Component in Business 08:24 The Challenge of Measuring ROI 09:20 The Value Cycle and Problem Statements 20:26 The Future of Manufacturing 23:29 The Impact of AI on the Tech Industry 26:00 Chat GPT and its Impact 26:30 Critical Thinking in the Age of AI 28:26 Challenges of Dealing with Automated Systems 29:50 The Pendulum Swing in Customer Service 31:39 The Competitive Landscape of Startups 32:39 Life's Challenges and Managing Stress 37:42 The Hippie-Business Connection in Startups 44:48 The Evolution of Tech Hubs: From Michigan to San Francisco 46:54 Is San Francisco Dead? The Future of Tech Hubs   Definition of Business Maranda defines business as a transaction between two entities, which could involve exchanging money for a service or a service for another service. Learnings in Business Emphasizes the importance of people in business. Shares a personal experience from the SVB crisis, highlighting the value of transparency and honesty in leadership. Team members offered to delay their paychecks, illustrating the strength of a committed and inspired workforce. Bridging the Gap Between Ideals and Reality Maranda stresses the need for flexibility and contingency planning in business. Highlights the human component in business planning, accounting for personal desires, and motivations. Importance of Diverse Perspectives Advocates for including multiple perspectives in business processes and decisions. Discusses the culture of debate and openness in her current company, where challenging ideas, even those of higher executives, is encouraged. Philosophy and Business Believes that business and philosophy are interlinked, especially when dealing with human behaviors and decisions. Points out the human-driven nature of ROI (Return on Investment) and its subjective assessment. Handling Intangibles in Business Discusses the challenges and methods of quantifying intangibles, like time savings in processes. Shares experiences from her past roles to illustrate how intangibles can be made tangible through efficiency gains. Manufacturing and AI's Impact on Jobs Reflects on her manufacturing background and the ongoing relevance of manufacturing jobs. Discusses the potential disruptive impact of AI on tech jobs, emphasizing the need for critical thinking skills. Balancing Tangible and Intangible Aspects in Business Highlights the unpredictability in business and life, advocating for adaptability and understanding that not everything can be measured or foreseen. Manufacturing in the U.S. and Global Supply Chain Shares insights on the fragility of the supply chain and the complexities of onshoring manufacturing. Future of Work and Human Skills Ponders over the future role of humans in an increasingly automated world, stressing the importance of skills that are uniquely human, like critical thinking. Conclusion Maranda’s insights reflect a deep understanding of the human element in business and the need for adaptability, diversity, and ethical leadership. She stresses the importance of preserving company ethos during growth and balancing the drive for innovation with operational maturity. Notable Quotes "People matter more than most leaders credit in their business plan." "Flexibility is key in business; expect plans to fail and have backups." "Multiple perspectives are crucial for a well-rounded business approach." "Human behavior plays a significant role in ROI and business decisions." "Efficiency and innovation can make intangible benefits tangible." "Critical thinking will be a safeguard against automation in jobs." "The unpredictability of life and business requires adaptability." "Manufacturing's complexity cannot be overlooked in the push for onshoring." "The future of work may pivot more towards uniquely human skills." "Maintaining company ethos is crucial during growth and scaling."

This Crazy Wisdom Podcast episode features Paul Lambert, CEO of Quilt, a start-up working to revolutionize home heating and cooling systems. Quilt's solution is an all-electric system that replaces traditional fossil fuels, significantly reducing households' contributions to global warming. Lambert shares Quilt's approach to HVAC, emphasizing overall comfort, efficiency, and incorporating modern technologies like machine learning and AI. Quilt has a waitlist in anticipation of their 2024 launch. Time Stamps 00:00 Introduction to the Crazy Wisdom Podcast 00:39 Guest Introduction: Paul Lambert, Founder and CEO of Quilt 00:49 Understanding Quilt: A Revolutionary Heating and Cooling System 02:42 The Efficiency and Benefits of Heat Pumps 07:58 The Quilt Experience: Installation and User Interface 08:35 The Business Aspects and Challenges of Quilt 24:20 The Future of Quilt and Home Energy Systems 30:35 Understanding AI, Machine Learning, and Their Role in Quilt 37:16 Closing Remarks Key Points Quilt aims to introduce a state-of-the-art HVAC system that is not only highly efficient but also contributes to reducing the environmental impact traditionally associated with home temperature regulation. Lambert explains that a heat pump, a core component of Quilt's system, functions much like a refrigerator, transferring heat instead of generating it, leading to remarkable efficiency gains. You can put 100 watts into the machine and, effectively, get 400 watts of heating power into the home. Lambert brings an impressive resume to the table, with experience leading a 120-person team and an investment fund at Google. His transition from Google to Quilt was fueled by a high level of conviction to address climate change.. Quilt's strategy revolves around combining mature core technologies into a seamless system that offers advantages over centralized heating and cooling methods. The company aims to address the inherent inefficiencies in traditional duct systems and provide a more tailored, room-by-room control approach to homeowners. Lambert believes that smart software and AI integration will further drive efficiency and user comfort in Quilt's system, making a substantial difference in energy consumption and sustainability. Conclusion: Lambert envisions Quilt as a platform that not only offers economic benefits to consumers but also contributes positively to the environment. With plans to roll out real home implementations by 2024, Quilt is poised to become a significant player in the home energy market, offering a cleaner, more efficient alternative to traditional heating and cooling methods. Quotes: "We're not just creating energy; we're moving it from one place to another. It's like rotating the energy." "By simply moving the heat that already exists, we can achieve insane levels of efficiency." "Choosing to work on the biggest problem means a commitment to provide a better world for the next generation. In my case, it’s addressing climate change head-on." "In the home, our jobs are to keep you warm and safe. We’re extending this by making sure we also keep you comfortable and do it sustainably."

Intro Allison Durham Focus: Exploring AI, Software Development, and the Human Mind What is the Human Mind? Allison doesn't make a distinction between the brain and the mind. She sees the mind as a dynamic range of cognitive experiences that include thoughts, perception, and self-awareness. The mind exists alongside the human experience and is fully integrated with bodily sensations. On Consciousness Allison discusses the topic of consciousness, noting that awareness can vary in its intensity. She mentions an intriguing question: Can awareness exist without the brain? She recalls an interesting conversation with a friend who asked her about consciousness and awareness. The Experience of Dreams Allison describes a dream she had that was "rooted in Earth," contrasting it with another dream featuring a monstrous, otherworldly creature. She emphasizes her ability to fully visualize experiences in her dreams, even though she struggles with visualization in her waking life. Aphantasia and Visualization Allison brings up the concept of Aphantasia, where people have difficulty visualizing images. She explores the idea that visualization might be trainable, mentioning techniques such as the "candle technique" to improve skill. She notes that while most people can recall memories with images, these people also often have underdeveloped other sensory recall like smell and hearing. Software Development and AI Allison talks about Rust, a systems-level programming language she enjoys using. She delves into the concept of Site Reliability Engineering (SRE), explaining it stems from Google's earlier operations methods. She praises GitLab for packaging all the tools needed for DevOps, making it more accessible. She explores the concept of MLOps, which focuses on getting machine learning models into production. She finds the speed of open-source AI development both exciting and challenging, noting that problems can't be fully solved before new ones appear. Personal Psychology Framework Allison discusses her psychological framework, leaning heavily on mindfulness-based tactics. She believes in being fully aware of one's thoughts and emotional state, and she finds this awareness essential for taking proper action in life. Final Thoughts She mentions her website, AdjectiveAllison.com, and her social media handle, AdjectiveAllison on X. Time Stamps: 2:30 - Discussing the nature of the mind and its relationship to the brain and awareness 5:00 - Allison explains her experience with aphantasia 7:30 - Stuart talks about training himself to visualize through meditation 9:00 - Whether imagination and visualization can be trained as skills 11:00 - Allison's perspective on not training her own visualization abilities right now 12:00 - Allison's interest in learning Rust programming language 14:00 - Using ChatGPT to assist with engineering problems as a "rubber duck debugger" 16:00 - Explanation of DevOps, APIs, serverless solutions like Repl.it 19:00 - How AI may or may not change API and engineering architectures 21:00 - Automation as connecting APIs; engineers building instead of using no-code 23:00 - AI unlikely to change API interface itself, complexity happens behind it 24:00 - Allison's favorite psychological framework is mindfulness 25:30 - Aligning with specific frameworks depending on the problem  

Introduction: John Lee is an early-stage investor focusing on deep tech, enterprise software, cybersecurity, AI/ML, and automation. What is Deep Tech? Deep tech companies are similar to biotech companies in terms of capital structure. Unlike traditional tech startups, they have a longer incubation period to accrue value. Capital Allocation and Business Models Scarcity of capital drives better business models. Interesting hybrid models exist that are designed to develop revenue in the near term. Examples from the Portfolio Rare Base: Focuses on finding cures for rare diseases by characterizing cells and testing drugs on them. Sells IP assets as a novel business idea. Count: Aims to make accounting firms more efficient by acquiring existing firms and implementing AI techniques. Innovation in Deep Tech Despite a renaissance in funding, deep tech has not yet penetrated the lives of ordinary consumers. The scarcity of capital is forcing companies to be more creative in their go-to-market strategies. Notable Geographical Clusters San Francisco and Boston are significant clusters for deep tech companies. Artificial Intelligence and Large Language Models (LLMs) LLMs are seen as collections of human intelligence trained on internet content. Emergent properties arise from the crosstalk across different nodes in LLMs. Future of LLMs Doubts exist about the ability of current models to scale. OpenAI aims to develop models with 100 trillion parameters, although the feasibility of this is debated. The Intersection of Science and Deep Tech Science is transitioning from an "artisanal" practice to an engineering discipline. Application Areas Reproductive Innovations: Research is being conducted on how to effectively assist couples in having children later in life. Energy: A debate exists over the effectiveness of fusion vs fission in energy production. Business Model Concerns Long regulatory approval times are a challenge. Jazz Venture Partners focuses on the convergence of deep tech and science, aiming for creative translation.

What is Cerebrium? Michael Louis, the episode's guest, introduces Cerebrium as a platform that deals with abstractions on two levels, specifically focusing on GPUs and scaling for machine learning applications. The Importance of GPUs in LLMs Why are GPUs essential for large language models (LLMs)? GPUs have the capability to handle tens of gigabytes of data, which makes them superior to CPUs for LLM tasks. The cost challenge: Running GPUs 24/7 is not feasible due to their high costs. Serverless computing is becoming crucial for making GPU usage affordable. Financial Considerations Generating a million API requests could cost tens of thousands of dollars, highlighting the importance of cost-efficient solutions. Enterprise-level solutions could cost a couple of million dollars annually. Use Cases and Limitations Instacart uses specific and fine-tuned models for its operations. When customer support bots answer queries, each question processed by a 100-billion parameter model can cost approximately ten cents. One of the challenges is latency; the time delay is often too high for practical applications. The Role of Specialized Chips Companies like AWS are developing specialized chips for specific use cases to combat latency and other issues. GPT-4 and similar models are opening doors for generative AI and traditional machine learning applications. The Future: AGI vs. Autonomous Agents Autonomous agents and Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) differ in their approximations and semantic understanding. AGI is considered the terminal reference for fully self-aware AI, while autonomous agents operate based on defined workflows. Impact of AI and Ethical Considerations Michael Louis aims to make machine learning more accessible for medium-sized enterprises. There is a significant challenge in regulating technology that we do not yet fully understand, like cryptocurrency. Global Perspectives and Social Impact Louis discusses the high unemployment rate in South Africa and the importance of understanding the privilege of a job. He emphasizes the role of power in making a social impact. Building B2B Relationships In-person relationships are essential for B2B success. Louis stresses the need for penetrating network circles for business advantage. Personal Journey and the Importance of Adaptability From his early days in South Africa studying computer science to becoming an entrepreneur, Louis talks about his life journey. He shares the experience of selling a startup to Walmart and what led him to his current venture. Robotics and AI Louis believes that context awareness for robotics is the future, citing examples from Boston Dynamics and others. He discusses the ethical implications of robots in everyday life and their potential in various fields like space travel and mining.

Prasad Kawthekar is the CEO of Dashworks.ai The Evolution of Enterprise Software: Three waves of enterprise software: On-premise enterprise software. Software deployed top-down on the internet. The third wave we currently live in: SaaS consumers. Challenges are becoming increasingly pronounced. Comparing Web Search with Internal Searches: Web search benefits from standardized languages and platforms, such as HTML. Internal company applications deal with varied data sources and lack user data for training. The Role of AI in Knowledge Management: AIs excel at parsing unstructured data. Legacy products relied on custom parsers and integrations, making maintenance challenging. Modern AIs, such as LLMs, offer real-time, generalizable solutions. LLMs negate the need for data indexing and simplify integrations. Challenges in Data Analytics: Many teams aspire to be data-driven. Navigating data warehouses can be intricate. Ensuring accurate, relevant data is paramount. AI's Potential and Limitations: AIs can pinpoint unstructured data, like Zoom transcripts and Slack messages, but human interpretation is crucial. Current AI technology has boundaries in terms of memorization, accuracy, and relevance. The future vision: intuitive AI tools that everyone can use, even without technical expertise. The Evolution of Software Development with AI: Coding is moving towards more abstraction, making it as simple as conversing with a person. Programmers are becoming more productive. A potential surge in the number of people who can create custom tools using AI. Economic and Technical Implications of AI: Speculating on the future economy and the role of AI. Infrastructure challenges, including storage, database, and compute layers. The promising direction of infrastructure provisioning using AI. Future Directions for Dashworks: Emphasizing data warehousing and analytics. The significance of manipulating APIs and building reliable systems. Ambitions for the upcoming six months, such as enhancing API call functionalities.

Show Notes for the Camilo Acosta Episode on Crazy Wisdom Introduction Camilo Acosta joins us to discuss a broad range of topics surrounding AI, from its application in healthcare to its growing influence in Latin America. He dives deep into how AI technologies are evolving and what that means for businesses and consumers alike. Follow Camilo here Key Takeaways The Astounding Capability of AI in Healthcare AI technologies can predict potential maladies with high accuracy. Notable advancements in healthcare AI are taking place at Mayo Clinic. The Current State of AI Prediction AI technologies have moved beyond generative images and text and now predict what we want to see or read. Future of AI: Action Over Prediction The next step in AI evolution is not just predicting events but acting on those predictions. The Three-Step Process for Decision Making Collect data, apply judgment, and make a decision. Noteworthy AI Companies Up-and-coming companies are making strides in areas like AI robotic surgery. The Role of AI in Latin America Latin America presents a blue ocean opportunity for new AI businesses. Financial Services and AI Banks like BBVA are starting to integrate AI technologies. Communication Through WhatsApp 70% of businesses in Latin America are using WhatsApp for various activities. AI and Automation AI enables more complex workflows than rules-based automation. Emerging Trends and Technologies LLMs, open source contributions, and more are shaping the future of AI. Detailed Discussion Most Interesting AI Developments Medical Field: The ability for AI to predict potential health issues is not just promising but is already showing results. State of AI Predictive Technology Prediction Machines: Current AI technology is capable of generating text and images based on prompts and predicting user behavior. Future of AI Taking Action: The ultimate goal for AI is to not just predict but also to act on those predictions. Healthcare Innovations Mayo Clinic: Mayo Clinic is at the forefront of implementing AI in healthcare, with particular emphasis on diagnostics. Decision-Making in AI Data, Judgment, Decision: A typical decision-making process in AI involves collecting data, applying judgment based on that data, and then making decisions. Latin America's AI Landscape Blue Ocean Opportunity: There's a lack of strong incumbents in the AI space, providing new entrants with less competition. Automation vs. AI Differences: Rules-based automation is not AI; AI involves more complex workflows and decision-making processes. Quotable Moments "The next step in AI evolution is not just predicting events but acting on those predictions." "Latin America presents a blue ocean opportunity for new AI businesses."

In this thought-provoking episode, we delve into a myriad of topics ranging from the complexities of curatorial practice in art to the secular study of religion. Nico Sarian guides us through an intellectual journey that stretches from the art scene in Moscow to the academic corridors of the University of Toronto, touching on astrology, Zen Buddhism, and the nature of suffering along the way. Prepare for a multi-layered discussion that challenges conventional wisdom and explores the intersections of art, religion, and culture. Join the awesome whatsapp community that Nico is helping to build Early Life and Academic Background Nico Sarian began his career journey after completing high school and entering the world of fashion. Intrigued by the art world, he transitioned into academia due to a spiritual crisis. Nico studied art history and philosophy at King's College in London, and this led to work as an art curator in Moscow. Defining a Curator According to Nico, the role of a curator involves managing a triangle between works of art, the public, and the space or architecture. Failing to manage all three elements would reduce a curator to merely a critic. The role of a curator is likened to that of a priest in that they serve as a mediator between these elements. Evolution into Religious Studies Nico later began teaching at a British art college in Moscow, which fueled his interest in theory, aesthetics, and teaching. After discovering the field of religious studies, he started studying it in a secular context at the University of Toronto. Influence of Russian Culture Nico spent considerable time in Russia and was in a relationship with a Russian woman for four to five years. He studied the Russian language to immerse himself fully in the culture, stating that Russia felt like another planet to him. Esoteric Studies Nico discussed various aspects of astrology, Zen Buddhism, and Shintoism. He mentioned Richard Tarnas as a researcher who places astrology in a historical context and contrasts Vedic and Western astrology. The demotion of Pluto to an asteroid sparked a debate about its relevance in modern astrology and contemporary life. The Philosophical Angle Nico is a critic of modernity and holds a deep academic viewpoint. His questioning of our modern belief systems was influenced by philosophers like Bruno Latour, who claimed, “We have never been modern.” Questioning Religion and Spirituality Nico wrestles with the concept of secularism in religious studies. His inability to give a straight answer to whether he believes in God stems from his view that the term 'secular' is an illusion. Life Philosophy Nico argues that suffering is not a problem; rather, it's the inability to deal with suffering that becomes the problem. He spent three years studying Sanskrit and used the term “Duhka” to discuss the concept of suffering. Future Directions Nico mentioned the idea of creating an infinite discussion board that incorporates various perspectives, aiming to foster and create symbolic capital. The episode delved into Nico's multifaceted life journey, from art and fashion to philosophy and religious studies. He provided a comprehensive view of how different disciplines intersect and inform each other, offering a critique of modernity along the way.

Introduction: Guest: Julie Fredrickson, Managing Partner at Chaotic Capital. Chaotic Capital is a seed-stage investment vehicle that focuses on ideas adapting humanity to complexity. Follow her on Twitter Adapting to Complexity: Julie raises the essential question: "What is the primary factor linking humanity to complexity?" As things change, it's vital to learn how to adapt and evolve. It's about more than just the traditional liberal-conservative divide. Understanding Change: Discussion on "Chesterton’s fence" – a principle highlighting the importance of understanding the reasons behind a tradition before discarding it. We often don't have all the information about why certain systems or structures exist. The concept of a "conservative accelerationist" is introduced. What traditions or values do people want to preserve in the face of rapid change? Historical Perspective & Our Understanding: Examples from history highlight our ever-evolving understanding. A millennium ago, the earth was thought to be centered; 500 years ago, it was believed flat. The movie "Men in Black" underscores the fluid nature of human understanding, challenging our conceptions and paradigms. Julie emphasizes the power of human inference – our unique ability to draw conclusions from information. Given our current knowledge, how does this skill evolve, and what questions do we need to ask to better understand our surroundings? Role and Limitations of AI: The conversation delves into whether we've provided enough context to AI systems. A significant concern is AI alignment – to what or whose standards is AI being aligned? Is it the median human, societal norms, or something else? The prospect of AI achieving human-like inference and skepticism is explored. Can AI be trained to question and fact-check itself? The Internet, Open Source, and Corporations: A retrospective on the internet's evolution, from closed corporate internets to open source. The dilemma of whether we'll be using corporate Large Language Models (LLMs) or open-sourced LLMs in the next five years. Culture, Symbols, and Power: Julie's career in fashion, beauty, and luxury offers insights into symbols and semiotics. Language isn't the only medium of communication. Who truly owns culture, and who holds the power? Transhumanism and Medical Ethics: Julie discusses her college days as a medical ethicist researching cloning during 2002-2006. The topic of transhumanism is broached. Julie posits that in many ways, we are already transhuman, referencing technologies like fertility treatments. There's a debate about the risks of corporate interests dominating AI and transhumanist technologies. The future is uncertain, and it's impossible to predict the outcomes fully. Preparing for the Age of Acceleration: Quoting William Gibson, "The future is here, but it's unevenly distributed," Julie ponders the accelerating pace of change. She seeks solace and insights from groups focused on effective accelerationism and those termed "doomer optimists." Julie touches on resource scarcity, arguing that human wants will always exceed available resources. She briefly addresses the topic of prepping and the challenges associated with it. Conclusion: Julie underscores the importance of agency. It's essential to ask who's influencing our decisions and who's potentially programming our behaviors.