AI Unplugged - The Future of Work

In this episode of AI Unplugged: The Future of Work, hosts Warren Valdmanis and Deval Patrick are joined by legendary labor leader Mary Kay Henry, longtime head of SEIU, to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping work across every sector of the economy. Mary Kay shares powerful insights on why the future of work is less about technology itself and more about power, voice, and who gets to shape change. From healthcare and home care to retail and warehousing, the conversation examines how workers can help design AI, protect economic security, and ensure innovation enhances human potential rather than replacing it.

David Siegel, a renowned technologist and entrepreneur, shares insights on how AI can be a powerful tool for solving real-world problems, emphasizing the importance of human agency in leveraging technology. The conversation explores the balance between technological advancement and human involvement, highlighting the need for thoughtful integration of AI into various sectors.

Hosts Warren Valdmanis and Deval Patrick delve into the transformative power of AI with guest Chris Zook, a renowned business strategist. Explore how AI is reshaping industries, enhancing productivity, and redefining leadership. Discover insights on AI's impact on jobs, customer engagement, and the future of work, all while navigating the challenges and opportunities of this technological revolution.

"Technology allows us to fly" - David Autor. In this episode of "AI Unplugged," hosts Warren Valdmanis and Deval Patrick engage in a thought-provoking discussion with David Autor, the Ford Professor of Economics at MIT. They explore the transformative impact of AI on the workforce, emphasizing its dual role as both an automation and collaboration tool. Autor shares insights on how AI can enhance human expertise, the challenges of rapid technological change, and the potential for AI to democratize professional opportunities. The conversation delves into the implications of AI on labor markets, the importance of policy intervention, and the future design principles needed to harness AI's potential for societal benefit.

Hosts Warren Valdmanis and Deval Patrick are joined by Rachel Korberg, Executive Director of the Families and Workers Fund, to discuss the transformative impact of AI on the future of work. The conversation delves into how AI is reshaping job quality, equity, and opportunity, while also addressing the fears and potential downsides associated with automation. Rachel shares insights from a new study with Gallup on job quality and explores strategies for inclusive workforce development, emphasizing the importance of reskilling and preparing for AI-driven changes.

In a captivating conversation, Brian Deese, former senior White House economic advisor and leader in sustainable investing, shares his insights on AI's crucial role in modern industrial policy. He discusses the challenges AI poses to the workforce and emphasizes the need for proactive regulations. Brian advocates for principled investing to drive corporate responsibility while warning about the energy demands of AI technologies. He also encourages young professionals to focus on transferable skills to navigate the evolving job landscape.

In this episode of "AI Unplugged," Warren Valdmanis, Deval Patrick, and Erik Brynjolfsson delve into the transformative impact of AI on the economy and society. They explore the concept of GDPB, discuss the Turing trap, and consider the future of work in an AI-driven world. Join the conversation as they examine how AI can augment human potential and the policies needed to ensure equitable progress

The hosts introduce their mission to explore AI's profound effects on work and society. They discuss the contrasting views of AI as a utopian dream versus a potential nightmare. Emphasizing the need for balance, they address the importance of policies keeping pace with AI advancements. Conversations in boardrooms highlight uncertainty, alongside a call for thoughtful investment strategies that augment rather than replace jobs. Engaging workers is deemed vital for successful AI adoption. They hint at exciting future guests and topics on the horizon.