
Before AGI
Artificial General Intelligence — the type of AI that reaches or even surpasses human capabilities — is an exciting topic. But what is not explored as much is an equally important question: what happens before AGI is here? That is, what should we be doing to prepare?
In Before AGI, I hope to have honest conversations about what are the goals, what are the problems, and what lies ahead as we develop AI.
Latest episodes

Aug 23, 2024 • 1h 4min
Sendhil Mullainathan: AI and Algorithmic Bias
Sendhil Mullainathan, a respected economist and professor, tackles the complexities of AI and algorithmic bias. He highlights how AI can transform decision-making in healthcare while warning of potential pitfalls linked to biased algorithms. The discussion also explores the cognitive burdens of poverty and how they shape irrational choices. Mullainathan shares insights from his journey bridging computer science and behavioral economics, advocating for responsible AI development that prioritizes fairness and equity.

Aug 16, 2024 • 1h 28min
Luis Videgaray: AI Policy Around the World
Luis Videgaray, a professor at MIT and director of the MIT AI Policy for the World Project, discusses the intricate challenges of AI governance worldwide. He shares insights from his government experience in finance and foreign affairs, exploring the evolution of AI policy and how different countries are adapting. Videgaray emphasizes the importance of international collaboration to address safety concerns and contemplates the geopolitical dynamics between AI 'makers' and 'takers.' He also highlights the need for developing nations to gain control over AI technology.

Aug 9, 2024 • 1h 16min
Anna Makanju: AI and Government
Anna Makanju, VP of Global Affairs at OpenAI, brings her expertise from national security and foreign policy to discuss the vital role governments play in AI deployment. She highlights the need for ethical AI practices and the importance of citizen engagement in this dialogue. Anna shares insights from her global tour alongside Sam Altman, addressing how AI intersects with geopolitics, regulatory challenges, and military applications. She emphasizes the urgency of international cooperation in establishing safety norms and navigating the evolving landscape of AI.

34 snips
Aug 2, 2024 • 1h 41min
Reid Hoffman: AI and Human Collaboration
Reid Hoffman, co-founder of Inflection AI and LinkedIn, discusses the fascinating intersection of AI and human collaboration. He shares insights from his experience at OpenAI and the ethical frameworks guiding AI development. Hoffman explores the innovative use of AI digital twins and the transformative potential of technology in education and creativity. He addresses the complexities of AI companions, emphasizing the need for compassion in design. The conversation also touches on global collaboration dynamics and the importance of ethical governance in shaping the future of AI.

Jul 26, 2024 • 1h 16min
Sal Khan: AI in Education
Sal Khan, founder of Khan Academy, discusses the potential of AI in education, personalized learning, and the impact on human relationships. He explores the economics of education, standardized testing, and the future societal impacts of AI. The podcast highlights the role of AI in transforming learning experiences and the challenges and opportunities it presents in education.

15 snips
Jul 12, 2024 • 1h 19min
Erik Brynjolfsson: Economics and AI
Erik Brynjolfsson, Stanford Professor, discusses AI's potential to enhance productivity without replacing jobs. Topics include AI's impact on labor productivity, GPTs, self-driving cars, negative impacts, historical context, job markets, optimism, and strategies for a positive AI future.
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