ChinaTalk cover image

ChinaTalk

RAND CEO Jason Matheny Gives a Masterclass on Risk and Organizational Design

Nov 9, 2023
Jason Matheny, CEO of RAND and former tech advisor to President Biden, shares insights on designing effective research organizations. He discusses the pivotal lessons from RAND's 1950s heyday and dives into existential risks tied to AI and biosecurity. Matheny articulates the vital interplay between creativity, interdisciplinary collaboration, and innovative decision-making within government. He also explores China's bureaucratic dynamics and how art can enhance our understanding of complex societal issues, all while emphasizing the importance of kindness and mentorship in team dynamics.
01:50:34

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Rand fosters a productive research environment by combining intellectual curiosity with practical relevance.
  • Analyzing institutional design is crucial to create a world-shaping institution like Rand.

Deep dives

Importance of Research as a Source of Practical Ideas

Researchers at Rand have the freedom to explore practical problems relevant to U.S. policymakers while also pursuing basic research. This combination of intellectual curiosity and practical relevance attracts smart and motivated individuals. The emphasis on self-determination and entrepreneurship within Rand further fosters a productive research environment.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode