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
22 snips
Aug 27, 2025 • 56min
MacKenzie Price on AI-Powered K-12 Schools
MacKenzie Price, co-founder of Alpha School, is on a mission to transform K-12 education with AI. She discusses the innovative two-hour learning model, where students engage in personalized learning and pursue passion projects. Price emphasizes the benefits of integrating AI for enhancing critical thinking and collaboration skills. Additionally, high school senior Alex shares his inspiring journey at Alpha, showcasing how the school's environment has fostered his own entrepreneurial spirit and life skills.
136 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 18min
Reid riffs on GPT-5, Figma's IPO, and the end of AOL dial-up
Dive into the buzz around GPT-5's launch and its parallels with user backlash against major updates. Explore Figma's remarkable IPO and how tech companies scale differently in today's market. Discover why Perplexity is making waves with its ambitious acquisition bid for Google Chrome. Finally, reflect on the nostalgia of AOL's dial-up days while discussing how traditional media remains resilient in our fast-paced digital world. From AI advancements to strategic competition, it's a thought-provoking journey!
53 snips
Aug 13, 2025 • 52min
Audrey Tang and Divya Siddarth on Outfitting Democracy for the AI Era
Audrey Tang, Taiwan's cyber ambassador-at-large, and Divya Siddarth, co-founder of the Collective Intelligence Project, discuss the future of democracy in the AI era. They explore how AI can enhance citizen engagement and governance while combating misinformation. The duo emphasizes the importance of harnessing collective intelligence to overcome polarization and promote constructive dialogue. They also address the potential of diverse public input in shaping AI tools that serve everyone, ultimately envisioning a more inclusive democratic process.
34 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.
48 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.
184 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.
