Decoder with Nilay Patel

Thomas Dohmke, CEO of GitHub, drives the conversation on the future of AI coding and developer tools. He discusses the emergence of 'vibe coding,' where even non-coders can intuitively craft software. Thomas also addresses GitHub Copilot’s competitive landscape compared to rivals like Cursor. The potential and challenges of AI in software development are explored, including developer skepticism and the evolving roles of engineers. Moreover, he shares insights into GitHub's financial growth post-acquisition and the transformative impact of AI on business models.

Michael Truell, Co-founder and CEO of Anysphere, delves into the surge of AI in coding. He discusses how Cursor AI enhances productivity by automating tasks and democratizing software development for everyone. The concept of 'Vibe Coding' is introduced, making programming more accessible to newcomers. Truell also reflects on the challenges and opportunities AI presents for hiring in tech and the balance between AI assistance and programmer control. This engaging conversation explores the future landscape of coding.

Hayden Field, Senior AI reporter at The Verge, dives into the intense competition for AI talent likening it to NBA trades. He discusses how tech giants like Meta are making extravagant job offers and why some AI researchers are motivated by more than just money now. The conversation reveals the impact of these hiring strategies on job security and industry expectations. Field also explores how companies like Anthropic are fostering a culture that values personal fulfillment, which is reshaping the landscape of AI recruitment.

Richard Robinson, cofounder and CEO of Robin AI, is a former corporate lawyer now driving innovation in legal tech. He discusses the challenges AI faces in the legal realm, particularly addressing issues like hallucinations and ethical concerns. Richard explains how lawyers can effectively utilize AI today and the elements necessary for building trust in AI lawyers. He also highlights Robin AI's role in simplifying complex legal tasks, enhancing compliance, and ensuring human oversight in AI-generated content.

Gaurav Misra, CEO of Captions, dives into the world of deepfake technology, revealing its alarming advancements and potential dangers. He discusses the ethical implications of AI-generated videos and the rising concern over misinformation in political contexts. Misra emphasizes the urgent need for awareness, regulation, and innovative solutions to combat deepfake abuse, while exploring the current limitations of verification methods. With deepfakes becoming increasingly sophisticated, the conversation highlights our precarious balance between innovation and safeguarding authenticity in a digital age.

This is Jon Fortt, CNBC journalist. I’m guest-hosting for a couple more episodes of Decoder this summer while Nilay is out on parental leave. Today, I’m talking with a very special guest: Gil Duran, an old friend, journalist, and author of The Nerd Reich, a newsletter and forthcoming book about the shifting politics of Silicon Valley and the rise of tech authoritarianism. Links:  Is Peter Thiel the Antichrist? NYT didn’t think to ask | The Nerd Reich How tech authoritarianism becomes reality | The Nerd Reich Curtis Yarvin’s Plot Against America | The New Yorker The rise of techno-authoritarianism | The Atlantic JD Vance thinks monarchists have some good ideas | The Verge Startups meeting with Trump officials to push for deregulated ‘Freedom Cities’ | Wired Peter Thiel-linked startup wants to build the “next great city” in Greenland | Inside Hook Bitcoin could replace dollar If US debt grows says Coinbase CEO | CryptoSlate Credits: Decoder is a production of The Verge and part of the Vox Media Podcast Network. Our producers are Kate Cox and Nick Statt. Our editor is Ursa Wright.  The Decoder music is by Breakmaster Cylinder. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aravind Srinivas, CEO of Perplexity and an AI search innovator, discusses the future of web browsing with his new AI web browser, Comet. He believes the browser will be pivotal for AI development, shifting user interactions from mundane tasks to entertainment. The conversation dives into the AI talent wars and how businesses might soon pay hefty prices for singular AI prompts. Srinivas also highlights the integration challenges of AI tools in browsers and the need for user education to maximize their potential, while setting sights on competing with tech giants.

Cassie Kozyrkov, CEO of Kozyr and former chief decision scientist at Google, dives into the fascinating world of decision-making and AI. She discusses how AI can enhance our everyday choices while emphasizing the importance of aligning technology with personal values. Cassie shares insights on overcoming biases in AI systems and the critical need for human oversight. With personal anecdotes, she highlights the intertwining of neuroscience and decision processes, urging a thoughtful approach to leveraging AI for smarter decision-making.

Ellis Hamburger, founder of Meaning and former journalist at The Verge, shares insights on the chaotic landscape of AI startups. He discusses how many founders overlook the bigger picture in their rush to pivot. The conversation digs into the ethics of engagement, criticizing social media algorithms that favor clicks over meaningful interactions. Hamburger highlights the need for authenticity in tech storytelling and stresses the importance of balancing innovation with ethical responsibilities.

Mark Barrocas, CEO of SharkNinja, shares insights on how the company has revolutionized the home appliance industry through innovative problem-solving and agile product development. He discusses their new Ninja Flex Flame grill, highlighting features that cater to modern living. Mark explains how consumer feedback drives their design process and the importance of teamwork and technology in crafting solutions. He also delves into the competitive grilling market and their strategies to maintain relevance in a rapidly evolving landscape.