Riskgaming

Danny and Laurence reflect on their latest game launch, Gray Matter, and the surprising emergent gameplay it sparked. They discuss players’ negotiation skills and how social dynamics influenced clue publication. The conversation shifts to Southwest Silicon, a game about Arizona's water rights and semiconductor industry, highlighting its intricate policy challenges. Upcoming games are previewed, tackling urban automation, critical minerals, and reimagining development institutions with a focus on technology and institutional design.

Pijus Krūminas, a professor at ISM University of Management and Economics and head of the Wargaming Lab, discusses the fascinating realm of wargaming. He highlights how it offers a more authentic analysis of human behavior than traditional methods. Pijus shares insights into designing political economy simulations, the deep learning achieved through bespoke wargames, and the integration of social sciences in wargaming. He also recommends engaging games for newcomers and explains how wargames can tackle gray zone threats and ambiguous scenarios.

Ian Curtiss, a game designer at Lux Capital, dives into the launch of his new scenario, Southwest Silicon. He discusses the intricate balance between chip fabrication and the water crises in Arizona, highlighting the challenges faced by farmers and industries. The conversation covers the dynamics of agriculture and politics, and the multifaceted perspectives on water rights. Curtiss draws from personal narratives and global influences to reveal how these issues shape our future, making it a fascinating look at environmental and economic sustainability.

Dylan Patel, the founder and CEO of Semianalysis, and Shahin Farshchi, partner at Lux Capital, dive into the fascinating future of AI and compute. They discuss the implications of GPT-5 on AGI and user applications, questioning if efficiency is overshadowing quality. The team explores the rise of super apps and innovative monetization models, reflecting on how they could reshape consumer tech. Additionally, the complexities of the semiconductor landscape are highlighted, especially in light of geopolitical tensions affecting supply chains.

In this discussion, Dan Wang, author of the acclaimed book 'Breakneck', contrasts the engineering marvels of China with the lawyerly culture dominating America. He highlights China’s rapid infrastructure growth, exemplified by projects like the massive Medog Hydropower Station. Dan delves into the U.S. reliance on extensive regulations slowing progress, the elevated status of lawyers, and how America can learn from China’s efficient practices. The conversation touches on sociological insights and the balance needed in urban governance to foster innovation.

Tim Weiner, an acclaimed author and journalist with over three decades of experience covering the CIA, delves into the agency's complex evolution in the 21st century. He discusses the challenges of intelligence gathering, particularly in relation to China and Russia, and reflects on significant historical blunders like the Iraq War. Weiner addresses the balancing act between immediate action and strategic foresight in high-stakes scenarios. He also explores the shifting relationship between the CIA and FBI and contemplates the agency's direction under current political pressures.

Randy Lubin, a designer at Leveraged Play and leader of Foresight Games, sheds light on the art of creating impactful policy simulations. He discusses the intricate balance between tech and culture in game design, sharing insights into developing a new scenario centered on AI and urban issues. Randy emphasizes the importance of understanding players' perspectives amidst complex designs and explores how AI is reshaping the industry. He also highlights strategies for player engagement and the role of community in fostering innovation within game design.

Kyle Harrison, a general partner at Contrary Capital and co-author of the report "Building an American TSMC," discusses the precarious state of U.S. chip manufacturing. He highlights Intel's struggles and the necessity of innovation to reclaim a competitive edge. The conversation delves into the barriers to entry in the semiconductor market, the importance of skilled labor, and the urgent need for America to safeguard its technological capabilities amid rising global tensions.

Eric Slesinger, general partner of 201 Ventures and expert on European defense tech, shares insights on the transformation of defense strategies post-Ukraine invasion. He discusses how EU nations are collaborating on procurement and the future of military technology, emphasizing the shift from traditional assets to drones and AI. Slesinger also addresses the unique challenges faced by defense tech founders and the need for tailored approaches in a competitive landscape. The podcast delves into the evolving dynamics of public trust amid misinformation, reflecting on how these factors impact modern democracy.

In this engaging discussion, Kenneth Stanley, Senior Vice President at Lila Sciences and author of 'Why Greatness Cannot Be Planned,' addresses the pressing concerns surrounding science funding in the U.S. He explores how funding cuts could reshape research institutions and emphasizes the need for new organizational designs that encourage creativity. Stanley dives into the balance of structure and freedom in research, urging a shift towards unconventional funding models to inspire innovation and navigate the future of science.