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The grftf Podcast

Latest episodes

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Feb 21, 2024 • 1h 21min

Ep 10 | Population Changes & What the World Looks Like in the Future — Jennifer Sciubba

Our host Misha da Vinci and Dr. Jennifer Sciubba, a renowned expert in political demography, dissect global demographic changes, including population growth, decline, aging societies and migration. They delve into global population changes, exploring their impact on international power dynamics and technology's role in reshaping relationships and perceptions. Dr. Sciubba provides insight into fertility, mortality, and migration trends and their substantial implications for future investments. The conversation also examines the advent of virtual reality and its potential to both enhance and disrupt human connections. Apart from technological progress, the podcast addresses the challenges of an aging population, emphasizing the importance of fostering resilience through lifelong learning, health investments, and preparation for extended working lives. Companies' role in driving innovations to navigate population aging and the difficulties in communicating complicated demographic data and policy responses also form an important part of this engaging and vital discussion. 00:00 Introduction to Global Demographic Changes 00:29 The Impact of Technology and Population Growth 01:01 Understanding Political Demography with Dr. Jennifer Sciubba 02:15 The Role of Demography in Shaping the Future 03:07 Exploring the Field of Political Demography 04:37 The Truth About Human Population Decline 06:47 The Impact of Demographic Changes on Society 09:45 The Future of Global Population 11:20 The Challenges of Aging and Shrinking Populations 11:26 The Role of Technology in Addressing Labor Shortage 17:17 The Future of Global Culture and Civilization 42:37 The Power Struggle in Global Conversations 43:27 Migration Trends and Their Impact on Global Population 44:05 The Role of Politics in Migration and Demographics 44:37 Japan's Approach to Population Decline and Immigration 45:06 The Human Element in Supply and Demand 45:32 The Impact of Political Decisions on Immigration Policies 46:04 The Future of Populism and Migration 46:46 The Role of Artificial Intelligence and Robots in Addressing Labor Shortage 47:53 The Importance of Engaging Older Workers in the Workforce 48:49 Rethinking the Concept of Aging and Work 54:54 The Impact of Technology on Population Growth and Development 01:03:00 The Challenge of Sex Ratio Imbalance & Male Loneliness 01:09:34 The Role of Technology in Shaping Human Relationships 01:14:30 Preparing for Changes in Population +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Connect with Dr. Jennifer Sciubba: Website: https://www.jennifersciubba.com/ Book: https://www.novelmemphis.com/book/9781324002703 TEDTalk: https://youtu.be/PImDVT8fb-I?si=M-hSXUZ2ROo1g6UA Twitter: https://twitter.com/profsciubba Newsletter: https://jennifersciubba.substack.com/ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Misha da Vinci is a futurologist, tech thinker, and founder of grftf. Connect with Misha Newsletter: https://mishadavinci.substack.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/mishadavinci Website: https://www.mishadavinci.com/
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Feb 14, 2024 • 51min

Ep 9 | The Rise of Smart Cities and How to Get Ready — John Lorinc

Misha chats with Canadian journalist and author, John Lorinc about the evolving concept of smart cities. He highlights how the continual urbanization of the world, with technology being central to this transformation, has led to this concept gaining relevance. His book, 'Dream State: Smart Cities, Technology, and the Pursuit of Urban Utopias', which won the 2022 Writer's Trust Balsillie Prize, explores this technology revolution in cities. The interview covers his journey as a mathematician and journalist and touches upon key topics such as sensors, smart city technology, and surveillance in public spaces. Lorinc discusses examples of smart city mega-projects that are underway in various parts of the globe and shares his perspective on the pros and cons of smart cities. He also emphasizes the need for active public engagement in shaping city landscapes, safeguarding privacy and human rights in an era of technological advancements. Towards the end, he illustrates the positive potential of smart city tech, such as smart grids contributing to green electricity transformations.   00:00 Introduction to Urbanization and Smart Cities 00:32 Meet the Expert: John Lorinc 01:48 The Journey from Math to Urban Affairs 04:18 The Importance of Cities in the 21st Century 07:11 The Role of Technology in Urbanization 09:36 Understanding Smart Cities and Their Impact 16:58 The Role of AI and Machine Learning in Smart Cities 20:15 Privacy and Surveillance Concerns in Smart Cities 24:06 The Impact of Technology on Privacy 24:36 The Role of Legislators and Regulators in Technology 25:15 The Gap Between Technology and Government 25:22 The Inadequacy of Government Understanding of Technology 26:18 The Responsibility of Citizens in a Technological Society 26:30 The Surveillance Mechanism of Technology 27:05 The State of Privacy Legislation in Different Regions 28:23 Examples of Government Engagement with Technology 31:25 The Impact of Surveillance on Individual Privacy 31:50 The Manipulation of Personal Data and Image 32:21 The Erosion of Trust in Urban Spaces 33:18 The Concept of Smart City Mega Projects 37:04 The Future of Smart Cities 42:28 The Importance of Public Engagement in Smart Cities 48:07 The Role of Technology in Energy Systems 49:58 Conclusion: The Balance Between Positive and Negative Impacts of Technology +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Connect with John Lorinc: Twitter: John Lorinc (@JohnLorinc) / X (twitter.com) Books: John Lorinc | Coach House Books (chbooks.com) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Misha da Vinci is a futurologist, tech thinker, and writer. Connect with Misha: Newsletter: https://mishadavinci.substack.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/mishadavinci Website: https://www.mishadavinci.com/
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Feb 7, 2024 • 54min

Ep 8 | AI, Super Reality, & the Cognitive Age —John Nosta

Misha chats with visionary thinker, John Nosta. It’s a fascinating conversation about the future of AI and its impact on humanity. John shares his vision of a 'Super Reality' where AI enables us to see and understand the world in dimensions beyond our human senses. He discusses the future possibilities brought by AI technology, especially Large Language Models (LLMs), and why he believes AI is the 'third window' into humanity, following the telescope and microscope. Nosta, whose career spans the fields of technology, science, medicine, and innovation, urges us to embrace our humanity in this age of rapid technological advancement. This mind-blowing conversation explores the idea that LLMs could usher in a new era of human development, expand our understanding of the world around us, and make us better versions of ourselves. 00:00 Introduction to the Super Reality 00:24 The Craft Podcast Begins 00:44 Introducing John Noster: The Intersection of Technology, Science, Medicine, and Innovation 01:57 The Power of AI: Unleashing the Cognitive Age 03:00 John Noster's Journey: From Medicine to Innovation 04:46 The Convergence of Technology and Humanity 05:21 The Impact of Large Language Models 06:25 A Day in the Life of John Noster 13:23 The Productivity Triad: Speed, Quality, and Engagement 19:44 The Emergence of Super Reality 22:41 The Future of AI: Piercing the Veil of Mythology 25:44 AI: The Third Window into Humanity 27:24 The Transformative Power of Personal Discovery 27:51 The Evolution of Information Access: From Gutenberg to Google 28:21 The Power of Large Language Models in Activating Human Thought 29:12 The Infinite Capacity of the Human Brain 29:47 The Duality of Technological Advancements: Wonder and Fear 31:54 The Misconceptions of AI's Dystopian Reality 32:48 The Necessary Components for Technological Advancements 34:41 The Role of Technology in Solving Societal Problems 35:33 The Impact of Obsolescence on Innovation 36:27 The Importance of Human-Centric AI 37:43 The Influence of Human History on AI Training 42:56 The Power of Embracing Humanity in the Age of AI 47:14 The Influence of Personal Experiences on Career Paths 47:58 The Power of Taking the Shot: Embracing Opportunities 50:16 The Power of Human Genius and Cognitive Capacity 51:14 The Future of AI and Human Interaction 52:55 The Power of Collective Thinking: Super Radiance 53:50 The Importance of Engaging in Conversations and Sharing Ideas   Connect with John Nosta: Website: https://johnnosta.com/ Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/JohnNosta ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Misha da Vinci is a futurologist, tech thinker, and writer. Connect with Misha: Newsletter: https://mishadavinci.substack.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/mishadavinci Website: https://www.mishadavinci.com/  
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Jan 31, 2024 • 1h 8min

Ep 7 | The Future Normal: AI, Innovations, & Trends — Rohit Bhargava

Misha takes an in-depth look at the book 'The Future Normal' with its best-selling author, Rohit Bhargava. They delve into future trends ranging from multiversal identities and immersive entertainment to new collectivism. Rohit elucidates his concept of 'stealth learning' and 'virtual companionship' arguing for the positive impact of technology on our lives. The discussion also covers other thought-provoking topics like 'ambient health', 'green prescriptions', and 'augmented creativity'. Towards the end, they discuss the necessity of embracing and adapting to technological advancements rather than being wary of them. Bonus: Rohit hints about his upcoming book intended to guide readers on 'how to become non-obvious thinkers'.   00:00 Introduction and Host's Thoughts on the Future 00:42 Meet the Guest: Rohit Bhargava 07:35 Rohit's Journey and Career Background 14:51 Rohit's Daily Life and Work Routine 22:50 Discussion on AI and Copyright Issues 25:18 Exploring Rohit's Latest Book: The Future Normal 32:19 The Era of Untrustworthy Online Content 32:40 Emerging Solutions for Authenticating Media 34:04 Stealth Learning: Education through Entertainment 35:27 The Future of Education: Virtual Reality 38:49 Virtual Companionship: Relationships with AI 46:53 Augmented Creativity: AI Enhancing Human Creativity 58:57 New Collectivism: Rethinking Startup Culture 01:00:12 Making Weather: Controlling Climate Change Connect with Rohit Bhargava: Non-Obvious Newsletter: https://rohitbhargava.com/subscribe/ Books: https://rohitbhargava.com/books/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/rohitbhargava Listen, subscribe, and follow on our YouTube channel and wherever you get your podcasts. Let's get ready for the future! +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++Misha da Vinci is a futurologist, tech thinker, and writer. Connect with Misha: Newsletter: https://mishadavinci.substack.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/mishadavinci Website: https://www.mishadavinci.com/
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Jan 24, 2024 • 1h 31min

Ep 6 | AI, Digital Dossiers, & Our Lost Right to Privacy — Daniel Solove

Misha gets an eye-opening education on digital privacy from world-renowned privacy law expert Professor Daniel Solove. Prof. Solove reveals alarming privacy issues in our digital world and how AI exacerbates the problem. He lifts the veil on the 'digital dossier' that exists for every single person and how it is used against our will. He reveals the risks of data harvesting, how AI can deduce sensitive information about us, and its misuse. Solove clarifies common misconceptions and emphasizes the inadequacy of existing privacy laws. He encourages people to initiate changes in privacy laws rather than settling for the existing ones.   00:00 Introduction to Digital Privacy 00:23 The Importance of Privacy in the Digital Age 00:48 Interview with Digital Privacy Expert Daniel Solove 05:46 Understanding the Concept of Privacy 10:48 The Evolution of Privacy in the Internet Era 16:29 The Dangers of Digital Dossiers 23:43 The Impact of Online Shopping on Privacy 28:49 The Role of Law in Protecting Privacy 45:04 Understanding the Different Types of Privacy Harms 48:57 The Inconsistency of Law in Data Breach Cases 49:59 Understanding Autonomy Harms in Data Privacy 51:22 The Struggle of Courts in Recognizing Data Privacy Violations 52:03 The Impact of Data Privacy Violations on Companies 52:23 The Role of Mobile Phones in Data Tracking 53:21 The Deception of Companies in Data Privacy 53:56 The Ineffectiveness of Privacy Notices 54:48 The Problem with Default Settings in Data Privacy 55:58 The Complexity of Consent in Data Privacy 57:20 The Importance of Accountability in Data Privacy 01:10:26 The Role of AI in Data Privacy 01:16:56 The Future of Data Privacy 01:24:51 The Importance of Demanding Accountability in Data Privacy 01:29:00 The Potential Impact of State Laws on Data Privacy 01:29:52 Conclusion: The Essential Role of Data Privacy in the Future   Connect with Daniel Solove: Twitter: https://twitter.com/danielsolove Publications: https://www.danielsolove.com/publications/ Newsletter: https://www.danielsolove.com/news/ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Listen, subscribe, and follow on our YouTube channel and wherever you get your podcasts. Let's get ready for the future!   Misha da Vinci is a futurologist, tech thinker, and writer. Connect with Misha: Newsletter: https://mishadavinci.substack.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/mishadavinci Website: https://www.mishadavinci.com/  
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Jan 17, 2024 • 1h 4min

Ep 5 | Whoever Owns AI Controls the Future — Amba Kak

Misha chats with Amba Kak, a globally recognized technology policy expert currently working as the executive director at AI Now. They discuss the dominance of big tech companies over AI development and deployment, why it matters, and the possible implications if it continues unchecked. Amba also shares her insights on the trajectory of AI and how it's shaped and controlled by power structures, infrastructure and data. This conversation also explores the need for more public involvement in shaping technology's future, alongside the pursuit of decentralization and democratic control over AI.   00:00 Introduction and Overview of AI 00:35 Guest Introduction and Background 01:56 Journey from India to the UK and the US 02:18 Deep Dive into AI and its Future 02:35 Guest's Experience and Insights on Global Understanding 02:52 Exploring the Unconventional Path to AI 03:43 Understanding the Global Impact of AI 04:54 Guest's Early Career and Aspirations 05:15 The Role of Law and Activism in Tech 08:13 The Journey to Oxford and Beyond 12:39 Working on Net Neutrality in India 18:23 Transition to Mozilla and Advocacy for Privacy Rights 22:16 Joining AI Now Institute and Its Purpose 31:01 The Influence of Big Tech on AI 33:44 The Scarcity of Compute Resources and Its Impact on AI Development 34:21 The Role of Big Tech Firms in AI Research 34:30 The Influence of Microsoft on OpenAI 35:12 The Importance of Data in AI Development 35:39 The Dominance of Large Tech Firms in AI 36:04 The Debate on AI Safety and Acceleration 36:31 The Control of Infrastructure in AI 37:01 The Existential Risk of Concentrated Power in AI 37:56 The Impact of AI Narratives on Tech Companies' Profits 39:03 The Infrastructural Dependencies and Climate Impact of AI 39:44 The Growing Awareness of the Problem of Concentration in AI 40:06 The Role of Competition Regulators in AI 42:12 The Future of AI and Big Tech 54:27 The Business Model Powering AI 55:20 The Vision for AI in the Public Interest 57:02 The Future of AI and Its Impact on Society Connect with Amba Kak: Twitter: https://twitter.com/ambaonadventure LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amba-kak-48569b108/ Learn more about AINow Institute: Twitter: https://twitter.com/ainowinstitute Website/Newsletter: https://ainowinstitute.org/ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Listen, subscribe, and follow on our YouTube channel and wherever you get your podcasts. Let's get ready for the future! Misha da Vinci is a futurologist, tech thinker, and writer. Connect with Misha: Newsletter: https://mishadavinci.substack.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/mishadavinci Website: https://www.mishadavinci.com/    
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Jan 10, 2024 • 1h 3min

Ep 4 | Understanding the Multiverse — Physicist & Author Paul Halpern

Misha joins American physicist and author Paul Halpern on a mind-expanding journey into the multiverse. As a professor of physics at St. Joseph's University in Philadelphia and author of 18 books on subjects like particle physics and the nature of time, Halpern explores compelling topics like general relativity, cosmology, chaos theory, and complexity. They dive into topics like Oppenheimer, Einstein, dark matter, the future of our cosmos, and the concept of multiverse from a scientific, cultural, and psychological approach. Halpern also discusses his own writing process, his career path, and the importance of maintaining an open mind when considering future possibilities. This thought-provoking dialogue is guaranteed to inspire and intrigue anyone fascinated by physics, the nature of our universe, and the potential for other dimensions of existence. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 01:09 Paul Halpern's Writing Process and Journey 01:32 Exploring the Multiverse: A Discussion 01:45 Paul Halpern's Prolific Writing Career 03:51 Paul's Personal Journey to Physics and Writing 08:37 The Role of Quantum Physics in Understanding Reality 23:47 The Concept of Multiverse in Quantum Physics 27:08 The Impact of Quantum Physics on Human Perception 33:13 The Influence of Perception and Environment on Our Choices 33:58 The Power of Travel and Exposure to Different Cultures 35:05 The Role of Quantum Physics in Understanding Reality 36:02 Exploring the Concept of Multiverse 36:44 The Impact of Perception on Reality 37:21 Understanding the Abstract Space of Quantum Physics 37:46 The Infinite Possibilities in Hilbert's Space 39:06 The Power of Positive Thinking and Choice 43:09 The Allure of the Multiverse 47:37 The Mystery of Dark Matter and Dark Energy 56:49 The Possibility of Extraterrestrial Life 57:50 The Future of Human Life on Mars 59:58 The Importance of Open-mindedness and Exploration   Get Paul Halpern's latest book: The Allure of the Multiverse More about Paul: Paul Halpern - Wikipedia Connect with Paul: Paul Halpern (@phalpern) / X (twitter.com) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Listen, subscribe, and follow on our YouTube channel and wherever you get your podcasts. Let's get ready for the future! Misha da Vinci is a futurologist, tech thinker, and writer. Connect with Misha:  Newsletter: The GRFTF Newsletter Twitter: https://twitter.com/mishadavinci Website: https://www.mishadavinci.com/      
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Jan 3, 2024 • 1h 1min

Ep 3 | Controlling Our Toxic Relationship with Big Tech — Tom Kemp

Host Misha da Vinci and Tom Kemp author of Containing Big Tech: How to Protect Our Civil Rights, Economy, and Democracy discuss the influence and impacts of big tech on our lives, touching on privacy concerns, data collection, surveillance, and steps individuals can take to protect their privacy. They discuss the hegemony of big tech companies over data collection in detail and how this unchecked power can lead to potentially harmful impacts on society. Tom shares his personal journey into tech and his experiences in Silicon Valley and as an angel investor. He asserts the urgent need for legislation and consumer education to combat rampant data collection and digital surveillance persisting in today's societies.   00:00 Introduction and Podcast Goals 00:51 Guest Introduction: Tom Kemp 01:58 Tom's Journey to Silicon Valley 02:54 The Importance of Balancing Tech and Humanities 04:33 Tom's Experience as a Founder and Angel Investor 06:21 Understanding the Role of an Angel Investor 09:36 Tom's Current Projects and Daily Life 12:54 The Toxic Relationship with Big Tech 16:14 The Impact of Big Tech Monopolies 25:18 The Need for Regulation and Antitrust Laws 30:34 Historical Perspective on Power Concentration 31:41 The Need for Pro-Innovation Legislation 32:20 The Unfairness of Tech Monopolies 33:33 Understanding Digital Surveillance 34:58 The Dangers of Data Weaponization 36:05 AI's Role in Personalization and Manipulation 42:21 The Importance of Privacy 50:36 The Future of Big Tech 55:28 Practical Steps to Reduce Data Footprint 57:20 Tech Companies' Double Standards 59:50 Closing Remarks   PRIVACY ENHANCING TOOLS: - Privacy Badger - a browser extension that automatically learns to block invisible trackers. https://privacybadger.org/ - How to configure App Tracking Transparency in iOS and iPadOS https://appleinsider.com/articles/21/07/20/how-to-configure-app-tracking-transparency-in-ios-and-ipados - DuckDuckGo — Privacy, simplified. https://duckduckgo.com/ - My Activity Google https://myactivity.google.com/   Tom's book: https://www.amazon.com/Containing-Big-Tech-Protect-Democracy/dp/1639080619 Connect with Tom: https://www.tomkemp.ai/ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++   Listen, subscribe, and follow on our YouTube channel and wherever you get your podcasts. Let's get ready for the future!   Misha da Vinci is a futurologist, tech thinker, and founder of GRFTF.  Connect with Misha: The GRFTF Newsletter (a free life-changing newsletter): https://mishadavinci.substack.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/mishadavinci Website: https://www.mishadavinci.com/
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Dec 27, 2023 • 1h

Ep 2 | Who Will You Be in the Future — Tracey Follows

Misha da Vinci and Tracey Follows explore the trajectory of human identity in the wake of advancing technology. They touch on the rise of technocracy, the intricacies of our digital identities, and the potential collapse of privacy due to surveillance and data mining. Tracey highlights the potential downsides of over-reliance on technology, the risk of losing our autonomy and the fragmentation of our identities. The conversation also covers the clash of authenticity vs. profiling in digital identities, the dilemma of corporate control vs. self-sovereign power in the digital infrastructure, and the need for reframing our conception of identity for our chaotic, complex future world.   Tracey's book: The Future of You  Tracey's podcast: The Future of You Connect with Tracey: https://www.traceyfollows.com/   +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Listen, subscribe, and follow on our YouTube channel and wherever you get your podcasts. Let's get ready for the future! Misha da Vinci is a futurologist, tech thinker, and writer. Connect with Misha:  Newsletter: The GRFTF Newsletter Twitter: https://twitter.com/mishadavinci Website: https://www.mishadavinci.com/  
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6 snips
Dec 21, 2023 • 1h 9min

Ep 1 | Neurotechnology, Brain Transparency, & the Fight for Cognitive Freedom — Nita Farahany

Nita Farahany, a pioneering futurist and leading authority, discusses the loss of mental privacy and the importance of safeguarding cognitive freedom. They explore the power of language, the significance of diverse backgrounds in tech and law, privacy concerns in workplace surveillance, mental privacy and cognitive liberty, preparing children for the future with new technologies, and cultivating introceptive capabilities and cognitive liberty.

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