Possible
Reid Hoffman
What if, in the future, everything breaks humanity's way? Possible is an award-winning, weekly podcast that sketches out the brightest version of the future—and what it will take to get there. Hosts Reid Hoffman and Aria Finger explore what’s possible with forward-thinking leaders, deep thinkers, and ambitious builders across many fields, such as technology, art, education and healthcare. These conversations center on the ways technology—and, in particular, AI—is shaping the future. In episodes, AI tools such as OpenAI’s GPT-4 and Inflection’s Pi are at work, offering informational asides, prompting guests, or demoing what they can do. Lastly, between guest episodes, Aria interviews her co-host Reid on his latest takes on what’s possible if we use technology—and our collective effort—effectively.
Episodes
Mentioned books
8 snips
Aug 6, 2025 • 17min
Reid riffs on the energy arms race and AI addressing climate change
The discussion highlights the competitive energy dynamics between the U.S. and China, emphasizing the need for stronger international partnerships. The vital connection between energy infrastructure and AI growth is explored, along with the rising energy costs impacting innovation. Environmental concerns regarding data centers are highlighted, balancing corporate sustainability pledges against local community effects. Lastly, innovative technologies are presented as essential tools in combating climate change, demonstrating their potential for economic growth and community upliftment.
21 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 52min
Tony Marx on the Future of Libraries, AI, and Trust
Tony Marx, President and CEO of the New York Public Library, discusses the vital role libraries play in an age dominated by AI. He emphasizes how libraries can be trusted sources of information, navigating challenges like misinformation and digital divides. Marx also shares insights on the balance between AI's potential benefits and its risks, particularly regarding employment and equity. The conversation highlights the transformative nature of libraries as inclusive community hubs adapting to technological advancements while maintaining their core mission to provide access to knowledge.
36 snips
Jul 23, 2025 • 24min
Reid riffs on AI adoption, sensitive data, and digital twins
Reid discusses the evolving role of AI in achieving product-market fit and the misconceptions founders often hold. He shares intriguing stories from his PayPal days, including high-stakes problem-solving with Peter Thiel. The conversation dives into the complexities of earning consumer trust in tech-driven industries and the societal impacts of AI adoption, especially in parenting and education. Additionally, the potential of digital twins and innovative deepfake applications are explored, showcasing the transformative power of AI in communication.
103 snips
Jul 16, 2025 • 40min
Reid riffs on acquihires, agents, and new startup norms
Explore the racing world of AI with insights on the latest trends in startup acquisitions, where talent is taking precedence over products. Listen in on discussions about reshaping business education around managing agents in this dynamic landscape. Delve into the philosophical impacts of AI on creativity and workplace roles, and discover how it's revolutionizing healthcare, particularly in drug discovery and cancer treatments. The conversation also touches on the shifting tides of cryptocurrency regulation and the necessity for innovative thinking.
71 snips
Jul 9, 2025 • 28min
Reid riffs on cryptocurrency, stablecoins and regulation
Explore the intriguing duality of cryptocurrency, from its potential for economic empowerment to the risks of misuse. The discussion highlights the need for a balanced regulatory framework in light of the upcoming Genius Act. Dive into how stablecoins might stabilize economies and the challenges of tech governance. With a nod to the collective excitement of past crypto surges, the conversation addresses the role of AI in shaping the future of finance. The dialogue emphasizes inclusivity and the importance of fostering innovation while curbing illicit activities.
173 snips
Jul 2, 2025 • 1h 5min
David Autor on AI’s impact on jobs, expertise, and labor markets
David Autor, a Ford Professor of Economics at MIT and co-director of the Work of the Future Task Force, shares insights on AI's transformative role in labor markets. He draws parallels between the China Shock and AI impact, emphasizing how AI can amplify expertise and improve decision-making. Autor discusses the potential of AI to enhance middle-class jobs and ensures upward mobility in the workplace. He advocates for adapting education to prepare for an AI-driven future, highlighting the balance between automation and collaboration.
62 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 26min
Reid riffs on massive AI acquisitions, robotics, and headcount trimming
A deep dive into the whirlwind of AI acquisitions reveals a shift toward talent-focused 'acquihires.' The implications for workforce adjustments are significant as companies adapt to an AI-driven world. The robotics boom is also on the radar, with major investments reshaping industries like logistics and healthcare. The discussion highlights the importance of government investment in fostering innovation while maintaining capitalist incentives. Plus, a nod to Adam Smith reminds us of the enduring principles of capitalism in navigating these changes.
133 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 52min
Hannah Fry on AI, Algorithms, and Human Nature
Hannah Fry, a mathematician and broadcaster from Cambridge University, joins the discussion to unravel the hidden power of numbers in our lives. She emphasizes the importance of understanding math in everyday decisions, from disease diagnoses to dating apps. Hannah highlights how choosing the right 'game' can optimize our choices, advocates for emotional considerations in statistical assessments, and shares updated dating wisdom for the AI era. Plus, there's a playful take on Jane Austen-themed math jokes!
36 snips
Jun 16, 2025 • 19min
Reid riffs on if AI can become conscious
The hosts dive into AI's rapid evolution and ponder its implications for humanity. They reflect on a thought-provoking chat with Yuval Noah Harari, weighing the balance of optimism and caution in AI development. Governance and accountability take center stage as they discuss the need for diverse perspectives in shaping AI's future. Additionally, they explore the philosophical divide between intelligence and consciousness, questioning how intelligent machines might align with human values.
303 snips
Jun 4, 2025 • 52min
Yuval Noah Harari on trust, the dangers of AI, power, and revolutions
This week, Yuval Noah Harari, a historian and philosopher known for his best-sellers like Sapiens and Homo Deus, discusses AI's trustworthiness and its potential impact on humanity. He emphasizes the need for genuine truth-seeking AI and the historical context of technology's evolution. The conversation explores the differences between intelligence and consciousness, urging a focus on compassion as a guiding principle. With caution about AI's dangers, Yuval advocates for global cooperation and mechanisms to support humanity in navigating this transformative era.
