Generative Now | AI Builders on Creating the Future

Rajarshi Gupta, the Head of Machine Learning at Coinbase, shares his journey from academia to industry, highlighting his development of a pioneering malware detection engine. He discusses how machine learning enhances transaction security and user experiences at Coinbase. The conversation delves into the challenges of evaluating AI deployments and the integration of generative AI for customer support. Gupta also addresses the transition to deterministic language models and the potential for AI innovations within the crypto space, emphasizing the need for robust guardrails in sensitive transactions.

Anu Atluru, a startup founder, physician, and co-runner of Slang, dishes out insights on the future of social utilities and the impact of AI on consumer behavior. She distinguishes social utilities from traditional networks and explores AI's role in enhancing user engagement and creativity. Anu delves into how AI could revolutionize healthcare, boosting efficiency and improving patient interactions. The conversation highlights the need for cultural shifts to integrate AI in medicine and the importance of preserving human creativity in a tech-driven landscape.

In this insightful discussion, Bill Dally, NVIDIA's Chief Scientist and a veteran in AI and computing, reflects on his remarkable journey from early neural networks to revolutionizing GPU technology. He shares keen observations about the rapid rise of generative AI, spotlighting ChatGPT's impact on the industry. Bill delves into the balance between innovation and leadership, as well as the challenges of multimodal AI and autonomous vehicles. He also offers valuable advice for aspiring engineers navigating the evolving tech landscape.

Nir Zicherman, co-founder of Anchor and CEO of Oboe, dives into his entrepreneurial journey, reflecting on the early trials of Anchor before launching Oboe, an AI-powered education platform. He discusses the limitations of traditional learning models, advocating for a hybrid approach to enhance personalized education. Zicherman also shares insights about the evolution of audio content, the challenges of growth marketing today, and the transformative potential of AI in making education accessible for all. A fascinating look at the future of learning!

Semil Shah, a savvy investor, joins Michael Mignano to dissect the AI landscape of 2024. They explore how expectations for AI have evolved, emphasizing the successes and failures of AI consumer devices. Shah shares insights on venture capital trends and the implications of rising tech titans like Jensen Huang. With predictions on IPOs and M&A activities through 2025, they also draw parallels between sports investments and tech strategies—illuminating the intersection of innovation and market dynamics.

Dr. Olga Russakovsky, an Associate Professor at Princeton and a leading voice in AI fairness, discusses the essential skills for the next generation of AI talent. She highlights the intersection of computer vision and generative AI, emphasizing the need for diversity to tackle bias in AI systems. Olga also addresses the challenges of ethical AI development in a profit-driven world. Her nonprofit, AI4ALL, aims to empower underrepresented groups in tech, fostering an inclusive environment for future AI leaders.

Marissa Mayer, former CEO of Yahoo! and a key player in Google’s early days, now leads Sunshine Products, aiming to transform everyday tasks through AI. She discusses the evolution of AI and its ability to learn and reason, emphasizing its impact on business dynamics. Mayer also highlights how her startup seeks to make mundane tasks magical, offering meaningful AI suggestions that enhance personal connections. The future of search and advertising in an AI-driven world is explored, showcasing the potential for AI to revolutionize consumer experiences.

Logan Kilpatrick, Senior Product Manager at Google AI Studio, discusses his journey from OpenAI to leading the Google Gemini API project. He highlights how the innovative atmosphere at Google feels akin to a startup. Logan emphasizes the importance of functionality over technical complexity in AI applications and the opportunities arising from declining model costs. He also explores the significance of specialized AI talent and the implications of Artificial General Intelligence, while considering how AI tools like Gemini can enhance user experience and business efficiency.

M.G. Siegler, a tech writer, investor, and former VC at GV, shares his insights on the evolving European tech scene. He delves into the current venture capital crisis, highlighting CRV Ventures' return of funds. Topics include the critical balance of investing in people versus ideas, the defensibility of startups, and the complex landscape of M&A and IPOs. Siegler also discusses the rise of AI and its implications for future startups, as well as the competitive positions of tech giants like Apple in the race towards artificial general intelligence.

Matthew Hartman, managing partner at Factorial Capital, shares insights on how AI is revolutionizing B2B SaaS. He discusses the emergence of personalized software solutions and the financial challenges of AI-driven services. Hartman also dives into how AI is reshaping the internet's economics, particularly the value of premium content and the importance of attention in digital advertising. Finally, he examines the evolving role of product managers, emphasizing the need for adaptability in this AI-driven landscape.