Riskgaming

Ian Curtis, the designer behind the scenario 'Powering Up,' has a wealth of experience living in China and crafting geopolitical tabletop games. He discusses China’s rapidly evolving electric vehicle market, spotlighting innovative players like BYD and the complexities foreign businesses navigate. Curtis also explores contrasting financial models between private firms and government strategies. The conversation highlights the skills necessary for operating within China's unique political economy, emphasizing the importance of immersive learning in today’s dynamic landscape.

Lev Grossman, acclaimed novelist behind The Magicians trilogy and The Bright Sword, joins the host for an engaging conversation about world-building and mythology. They dive into the complexities of the Arthurian legends and the interplay between magic, religion, and modern narratives. Grossman shares insights on the importance of historical context and authentic storytelling. They also discuss his upcoming space opera and how it aims to transcend traditional fantasy tropes, creating a rich, multi-layered universe.

Randal Phillips, a former chief CIA representative in China with nearly three decades of intelligence experience, discusses the alarming shift in China’s open engagement to a more insular stance. He highlights the implications of restricted information flow on American understanding of China. Phillips talks about the complexities of U.S.-China relations, particularly regarding fentanyl crises and transnational crime. He warns of growing challenges in business and intelligence operations and examines China’s expanding influence in global finance amid geopolitical tensions.

In a captivating discussion, Alex Miller, a software developer and artist known for the generative art project Spacefiller, delves into the mesmerizing intersection of algorithmic art and biology. He explores how coding can be a playful and creative pursuit, breaking down the contrasts between computation as art versus software engineering. The conversation also covers the unique enchantments of graph paper, the nostalgic influence of HyperCard, and the surprising aesthetics of generative art, revealing how these elements shape our perception of creativity.

Dmitri Alperovitch, co-founder of CrowdStrike and author of "World on the Brink," brings an optimistic outlook on America's future amidst China's rise. He argues that America possesses the essential qualities for continued success, suggesting that the media often overstates negative trends. The discussion covers necessary reforms in the Defense Department, the role of software in modern warfare, and the lessons from Ukraine's conflict. Alperovitch emphasizes the importance of innovation and strong alliances in navigating U.S.-China dynamics.

J. Doyne Farmer, a physicist and complexity scientist, dives into the intriguing world of complexity economics. He discusses how traditional and complexity economics differ, emphasizing emergent behaviors and simulation methods. Remarkably, Doyne shares a story about building a wearable computer in the 70s to predict roulette outcomes, bridging the gap between gambling and finance. The conversation also touches on predicting economic shocks, generational shifts in economic thought, and the vital role of interdisciplinary collaboration in understanding complex systems.

Tarin Ziyaee, a technologist and founder with experience at Meta and Apple, dives into the captivating realm of artificial life. He discusses its unique relationship with traditional AI and the importance of tool use in evolution, from bacteria to humans. Tarin explores how evolutionary concepts can enhance robotics, advocating for a shift towards embodied intelligence. The conversation highlights the need for interdisciplinary collaboration in developing intelligent agents and the exciting future of deep tech innovation.

Michael Magnani, a columnist specializing in sports betting and geopolitics, dives into the societal impacts of legalized sports betting in America, discussing its cultural ramifications and the need for regulation. He also reveals how open-source intelligence is revolutionizing modern warfare, particularly through satellite imagery. The conversation shifts to Japan's recent election, exploring the implications for U.S.-Japan relations amid rising geopolitical tensions and evolving alliances in the Asia-Pacific.

Josh Wolfe, co-founder of Lux Capital and a visionary in venture capital, dives into the fierce competition within American science and the global race for tech supremacy. He explores the balance between individual recognition in research and the essential collaborative spirit behind scientific breakthroughs. Wolfe discusses the transformative power of AI in both science and investment, the importance of cultural dynamics within labs, and the risks involved in funding AI startups. The conversation ultimately highlights fostering a culture of inquiry to inspire future innovations.

Join Omar Rizwan, a programmer dedicated to developing physical interfaces for communal computing, as he dives into the world of Folk Computer. He shares his journey from online programming communities to in-person networking, highlighting how personal connections can transform learning. The discussion unpacks the evolution of user interfaces, the significance of creativity in coding with AI, and the challenges of fostering a vibrant community around shared computing experiences. It's a fascinating mix of tech innovation and personal storytelling!