This year sees a deep dive into AI's impact on global elections, spotlighting how democracies face the challenge of misinformation. The podcast discusses a shocking case of deepfake use in India and contrasts optimistic policy responses with philosophical debates. Economic dynamics shifts, particularly regarding supply chains and the potential Chinese invasion of Taiwan, intertwine with espionage revelations in tech. Additionally, the rise of electric vehicles highlights fierce competition and strategic collaborations in a changing market landscape.

Ian Curtiss, the designer of the new Riskgaming scenario "Powering Up," discusses China’s rise in the electric vehicle sector alongside Laurence Pevsner, director of programming. They highlight the competitive challenges faced by companies like Northvolt and GM. The duo dives into strategic lessons from gameplay and the vital role of foreign consultants in navigating complex automotive dynamics. They also touch on varying political and business strategies across regions, revealing insights on adapting to industry mistakes and the future of global tech.

Stephen Smith, executive director of the Center for Building and author of a viral NYT op-ed, dives deep into America's soaring elevator costs, revealing they can be four times more expensive than in Europe and Asia. He discusses the tangled web of building codes and zoning laws that inflate prices and hinder urban accessibility. The conversation also touches on the inefficiencies of U.S. construction methods and how adopting international practices could revolutionize the industry. Smith calls for a reevaluation of standards to improve affordability and innovation.

Josh Wolfe, co-founder of Lux Capital, dives deep into historical lessons from Greek mythology to shed light on investment strategies in tech. He discusses how innovations can amplify human potential but often remain untapped due to systemic constraints. Wolfe emphasizes four strategic focuses for unlocking innovation. He also warns about the risks of hubris in the face of AI's energy demands and the potential emergence of decentralized computing. Alongside, he explores the concept of 'fixedware' for maintaining existing tech, highlighting a shift in investment priorities.

Dave Jilk, a tech entrepreneur and author of 'Epoch: A Poetic Psy-Phi Saga,' dives into the fascinating intersection of AI and poetry. He discusses the origins of his book, presenting a unique perspective on artificial general intelligence. The conversation explores the ethical implications of AI, the complexities of raising such entities, and how cultural awareness should guide AGI development. They also share engaging sci-fi recommendations that spark deeper reflections on our future with technology.

Join Laurence Pevsner, Lux’s Riskgaming director of programming with expertise in AI and election security, and Michael Magnani, a multifaceted researcher and columnist. They dive into the ramifications of AI deepfakes on U.S. elections and reveal the pressing global threats often overlooked. The discussion traverses Germany's industrial economy, the trajectory of the Ukraine war, and trade tensions with China. They also highlight the critical issues surrounding food security that demand urgent attention on the world stage.

In this engaging discussion, Brian Schimpf, Co-founder and CEO of Anduril, shares insights into the company's remarkable rise in defense technology. He delves into the shift from traditional to agile manufacturing, emphasizing rapid development of autonomous systems. Brian discusses the challenges of leading a team of 4,000, balancing innovation with scale. He also highlights strategic acquisitions and the evolving landscape of U.S. defense manufacturing amidst geopolitical tensions, positioning Anduril as a key player in modernizing military capabilities.

Henry Oliver, the insightful author of "Second Act," explores the fascinating world of late bloomers and professional success at any age. He discusses how late bloomers, like Margaret Thatcher and Ray Kroc, redefine success by embracing experimentation and seizing opportunities. The conversation tackles societal views on aging, challenges ageism, and envisions a future where diverse career paths flourish. Oliver emphasizes the importance of adaptability and preparation, urging a cultural shift to recognize the potential of mature talent in the workforce.

In this engaging discussion, Mark Mills, a distinguished senior fellow at the Texas Public Policy Foundation, dives into the energy implications of our digital age. He explores the soaring demand for energy from data centers fueled by AI advancements and critiques misplaced focus on AI over traditional computing. Mark argues that the narrative of an energy transition is misleading, emphasizing our ongoing reliance on all energy sources, particularly hydrocarbons. He also highlights the economic impact of data centers and the need for responsible AI governance.

Dominic Falcao, founding director of Deep Science Ventures, shares his vision for a new approach to deep tech. He discusses the concept of combinatorial innovation and how it's reshaping startup culture. Falcao emphasizes the importance of societal outcomes and cross-disciplinary work. The conversation dives into AI's role in enhancing risk assessment for new technologies and the evolving European tech landscape. His insights on the 'immortal technology tree' framework highlight strategies for navigating uncertainties in scientific innovation.