

"The Cognitive Revolution" | AI Builders, Researchers, and Live Player Analysis
Erik Torenberg, Nathan Labenz
A biweekly podcast where hosts Nathan Labenz and Erik Torenberg interview the builders on the edge of AI and explore the dramatic shift it will unlock in the coming years.The Cognitive Revolution is part of the Turpentine podcast network. To learn more: turpentine.co
Episodes
Mentioned books

70 snips
Jul 9, 2024 • 1h 16min
Delving into The Prompt Report, with Sander Schulhoff of LearnPrompting.org
Sander Schulhoff, creator of LearnPrompting.org and author of the Prompt Report, dives deep into innovative prompting techniques for AI. He discusses best practices and the challenges faced in ensuring effective prompts. The conversation highlights new developments in generative AI courses and automated systems, along with insights into advanced methods like few-shot prompting. Schulhoff also addresses misconceptions in prompt optimization and the critical role of training methodologies, revealing how these elements shape the future of AI performance and collaboration.

45 snips
Jul 6, 2024 • 1h 12min
Building an Intelligent Business OS, with Runway CEO Siqi Chen
Siqi Chen, CEO of Runway, is reshaping business finance with AI. He discusses creating an intelligent operating system that simplifies financial scenarios for both finance and non-finance professionals. Siqi explores how AI enhances decision-making and democratizes financial knowledge, while sharing insights on the integration of advanced language models. He also addresses the importance of infrastructure in maximizing AI potential and the challenges of applying AI in real-world contexts, emphasizing the importance of human creativity as tech evolves.

38 snips
Jul 4, 2024 • 1h 42min
The State Space Model Revolution, with Albert Gu
Albert Gu, an assistant professor at CMU and co-founder of Cartesia AI, delves into the innovative Mamba architecture and the state space model revolution. He highlights the groundbreaking shift toward biologically inspired memory models, contrasting traditional approaches with new methods that enhance information processing. The conversation also touches on the advancements from Mamba 1 to Mamba 2, optimizing performance through improved state management and model efficiency. Gu's insights paint a thrilling picture of AI's future, emphasizing curiosity and breakthroughs in research.

38 snips
Jun 28, 2024 • 1h 48min
AI Safety Regulations: Prudent or Paranoid? with a16z's Martin Casado
Join Martin Casado, General Partner at Andreessen Horowitz, as he navigates the complex landscape of AI and its future. He discusses the intricate challenges of regulating AI amidst rapid advancements, the balance between innovation and safety, and the ethical implications of AI technologies. Casado also explores the evolution of AI, highlighting the dichotomy between generative AI systems and human cognition. Dive into the tensions between corporate autonomy and regulatory demands, and gain insights into the practical outcomes of informed AI policies.

17 snips
Jun 26, 2024 • 1h 54min
Fluid Intelligence: Simulating Solutions with Tim Duignan
Tim Duignan, an applied mathematician at the University of Queensland, dives into the fascinating world of AI and computational chemistry. He discusses groundbreaking AI techniques for simulating electrolyte solutions, enhancing our understanding of critical applications like battery technology. Duignan also delves into the complexities of molecular dynamics, wave function collapse, and the synergy between quantum mechanics and AI. His insights reveal how incorporating equivariance in neural networks could revolutionize molecular simulations and propel future scientific innovations.

20 snips
Jun 22, 2024 • 1h 37min
The AI Doctor Can See You Now, with Vivek Natarajan and Khaled Saab from Google
Join Google researchers Khaled Saab and Vivek Natarajan as they dive into the transformative potential of AI in healthcare. Khaled, a leading expert in AI applications, discusses how AI doctors could enhance global access to quality medical advice. They explore breakthroughs in large language models, improved diagnostics, and the revolutionary impact of AI systems like MedGemini. The conversation also touches on the importance of trust in AI technologies and ethical considerations for the future of medicine.

Jun 19, 2024 • 1h 45min
The Case for Cautious AI Optimism, from the Consistently Candid podcast
This discussion dives into the optimistic potential of AI while addressing safety concerns. It explores the evolution of AI technologies and the importance of practical accessibility for newcomers. Highlighting advancements like GPT-5, the talk emphasizes hands-on experience and understanding of AI applications, especially in healthcare. The conversation balances caution with optimism, stressing the need for ethical oversight, collaboration among developers, and effective safeguards against misuse. A hopeful yet responsible approach to navigating AI's rapid progress is central to the dialogue.

9 snips
Jun 15, 2024 • 1h 25min
Building Brave: Private Search, One AI Layer at a Time with Josep M. Pujol
Join Josep M. Pujol, Chief of Search at Brave, as he unpacks the intricate balance between user privacy and search technology. Discover how Brave manages over a million searches per hour while safeguarding data through ethical practices. Pujol discusses the innovative methods of web crawling and the importance of human evaluation in AI systems. Learn about the Brave Search API's potential as a user-centric alternative to mainstream engines and the exciting advancements in integrating AI for enhanced search results.

8 snips
Jun 13, 2024 • 52min
Investing in AI for Hard Tech, with Eric Vishria of Benchmark and Sergiy Nesterenko of Quilter
Join venture capital expert Eric Vishria from Benchmark and Sergiy Nesterenko, CEO of Quilter, as they dive into the future of AI in hardware design. They share insights on the unique challenges of AI investments and the importance of solving long-term problems in the tech industry. Discover how reinforcement learning can revolutionize circuit board design and the complexities of achieving sustained success in tech startups. With their backgrounds in AI and aerospace, they discuss the innovative methods that are shaping the future of technology.

61 snips
Jun 8, 2024 • 1h 23min
Feeling the AGI with Flo Crivello
A riveting discussion unfolds around the imminent arrival of artificial general intelligence (AGI) and the risks of a US-China AI arms race. The conversation delves into the transformative impact of AI coding assistants on programming accessibility and the dual nature of AGI as a powerful tool and potential threat. The guests explore the geopolitical tensions among tech giants and the urgent need for collaboration and regulation in AI development. With a focus on ethical dilemmas and safety measures, this dialogue captures the essence of navigating the evolving landscape of AI technology.


