Riskgaming

Brian Potter, a writer and construction industry expert, dives into the inefficiencies plaguing construction in his illuminating discussion. He reveals why the construction process often feels painfully slow, attributing it to regulatory burdens and unique site challenges. Potter critiques aesthetic uniformity in boosting efficiency and contrasts construction's struggles with other industries' innovations. He also shares insights from his research and offers thoughts on fostering experimentation through policy changes. His passion for improving the sector shines throughout!

In a fascinating discussion, Charles Yang, a former Department of Energy civil servant and founder of the Center for Industrial Strategy, dives into the urgent need for American reindustrialization. He shares insights on bridging the cultural gap between Washington and Silicon Valley, tackling the balance of being a specialist versus a generalist, and building a bipartisan coalition for industrial policy. Yang also highlights the impact of the Knudsen Fellowship on integrating engineers into government and debates the role of experiential tools like Riskgaming in shaping policy.

Explore how Europe's geopolitical tensions drive innovation, as experts discuss the impact of external threats. Delve into the complexities of zoning laws and their role in American opportunity. Discover how modern terrorism exploits technology like drones and crypto. Learn about Russia's gig economy in sabotage and China's digital espionage. The conversation spans agriculture's role in national security and Europe's defense revitalization post-Ukraine. Finally, unpack the urgent need for regulations around AI and the dangers of deepfakes in elections.

Alex Komoroske, founder of Common Tools and co-leader of the Resonant Computing Manifesto, dives into the pressing need for a shift in software design. He explains the concept of resonant computing, emphasizing qualities like privacy and adaptability. The discussion highlights how LLMs may democratize software creation and tackles the pitfalls of current optimization trends that render technology hostile. They also explore innovative concepts like confidential computing, envisioning a future where software thrives on user-centric values and profitability.

Christian Davenport, a journalist and author of 'Rocket Dreams' and 'The Space Barons,' dives into the fierce competition between Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos for space supremacy. He traces his transition from war reporting to covering the cutting-edge commercial space race. Topics include SpaceX's bold challenge against ULA, NASA's increasing reliance on private companies, and the contrasting approaches of Blue Origin and SpaceX. Davenport also explores the future of space economies, the impact of China's space ambitions, and the urgent need for regulatory measures in orbit.

Jacob Ward, a journalist and author known for exploring the intersections of behavior and technology, dives into the complexities of AI safety. He highlights AI's addictive nature and compares its rapid rise to gambling culture. The conversation addresses the ethical dilemmas of scaling technology, especially concerning mental health harms and the need for proper regulations. Ward also emphasizes the importance of cognitive liberty and long-term thinking in tech, warning against prioritizing product enthusiasm over safety.

Uri Bram, a polymathic creator and author known for his book on Bayes' theory and the game Person Do Thing, joins to discuss creativity and community. He shares insights on the balance between perfectionism and delivering projects, the benefits of immersive gaming for social connection, and how to enhance communication through constraints. Uri also details the art of hosting parties and why building community is valuable. Plus, hear about his innovative olfactory gallery events and the surprising friendships formed via Amazon outreach.

Join filmmaker Kirby Ferguson, renowned for his exploration of remix culture, and Ale Matamala Ortiz, co-founder of a generative AI studio for filmmakers. They dive into the economics of the LA film industry, debating whether AI or systemic issues drive its recession. Kirby reflects on remixing in creativity, while Ale discusses how AI democratizes filmmaking, unleashing new voices. They anticipate the merging of films and games into innovative narratives and ponder AI's role as a quirky collaborator that enhances creative workflows.

Halldor Hardarson, a seasoned China specialist and head of EU–China science cooperation, and Ian Curtiss, a scenario consultant and China analyst, dive deep into the shifting landscape of EU-China relations. They reminisce about early optimism in China's transition and the impacts of COVID on researcher mobility. The conversation highlights the evolving EU perspective from openness to a cautious 'de-risking' approach. They also discuss the balance of power between the U.S. and China and share exciting projects, including Halldor's biotech work and Ian's board game initiative.

Kyunghyun Cho, a computer science professor and executive director at Genentech, discusses the future of AI in research and the importance of understanding causation over mere correlations. Shirley Ho, a group leader at the Flatiron Institute, shares insights on polymathic models that integrate physics and data science, enhancing simulations in fields like fluid dynamics. Together, they explore the rethinking of research funding, future scientist education, and how AI may transform narrow specialists into interdisciplinary collaborators.