Conversations with Tyler

Brendan Foody, founder and CEO of Mercor, discusses his groundbreaking AI marketplace that hires experts from various fields, including poets earning $150 an hour. He emphasizes the importance of rubrics over raw data for training AI, predicting that knowledge work will shift towards creating reinforcement learning environments. Brendan shares lessons from his early donut venture and explores how dyslexia can foster unique entrepreneurial strengths. He also highlights the challenges of hiring and the need for cultural empathy in a global workforce. Fascinating insights abound!

This year-in-review highlights fascinating single-subject deep dives that captivated listeners. AI's unexpected impact on production processes is discussed, along with Tyler's reflections on notable guests and the lost Magnus Carlsen episode. Tyler shares his quirky hotel selection criteria and his unique emotional profile, noting his absence of uncontrollable laughter. The conversation also touches on the importance of peer-reviewed literature in the AI-risk dialogue and Tyler’s thoughts on 2015 pop culture. Finally, enjoy a dispatch from Muscat, praising its beauty and history!

Alison Gopnik, a psychology and philosophy professor at UC Berkeley, explores how children think like scientists, running experiments to learn about the world. She challenges conventional views on nature versus nurture, suggesting a complex interplay instead. Gopnik discusses the role of AI as a cultural tool rather than true intelligence, and how it can transform education. She also delves into children's consciousness, the effects of social context on development, and the importance of caregiving. Prepare for a mind-expanding discussion on childhood learning!

Gaurav Kapadia, an investor and founder of XN, provides insight into his unique investment philosophy focused on long-term, concentrated bets. He discusses the surprising growth of Queens without new infrastructure and critiques NYC's political identity, while sharing thoughts on underrated boroughs and the quirkiest parts of the city. Gaurav connects his art collecting to sharper investment judgment, highlights influential contemporary artists, and foresees AI's escalating role in both investing and enhancing museum experiences.

Dan Wang, a technology analyst and author of *Breakneck*, dives deep into the striking differences between American and Chinese perspectives. He claims that America is a nation of lawyers while China thrives as a nation of engineers, impacting everything from infrastructure to creative freedoms. They debate the future of American suburbs, China's healthcare shortcomings, and whether a more legalistic approach could strengthen individual freedoms in China. Discover insights on urban life in Beijing versus Shanghai and the nuances of East Asian development.

Cass Sunstein, a leading legal scholar and author, captivates with insights on liberalism's challenges in the age of AI. He discusses the vulnerability of liberalism to illiberal forces and the risks posed by human nature. Sunstein dives into immigration, advocating for humane policies while acknowledging integration concerns. He explores the implications of AI on speech rights and proposes a legal right against manipulation. The conversation surprisingly links Bob Dylan to themes of freedom and self-invention, all while anticipating Sunstein’s next projects on animal rights.

Blake Scholl, Founder and CEO of Boom Supersonic, is revolutionizing commercial aviation with new supersonic aircraft. He advocates for underground airport terminals and efficient boarding solutions to enhance travel speed and comfort. Scholl critiques outdated security protocols and proposes trusted traveler programs. He contrasts Amazon's long-term strategies with Groupon's short-term fixes, and reveals insights into the lessons learned from the Concorde. Additionally, he discusses how LLMs could streamline regulatory paperwork. Expect a vision of faster, smarter air travel!

Donald S. Lopez Jr., a prominent Buddhist studies scholar at the University of Michigan, dives deep into the complexities of Buddhism. He examines the historical Buddha's 32 physical marks and the enigma of his death, pondering the real narrative behind his final meal. Lopez also delves into the theological implications of Buddhism's atheism, the unique features of Zen practice, and the evolution of its teachings in the digital age. He reflects on his journey into Buddhist scholarship and shares thoughts on adapting ancient stories to modern formats.

Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, dives into the rapidly evolving world of AI and its societal impact. He discusses how OpenAI harnesses delegation to boost productivity and the differences in hiring between hardware and AI talent. Altman forecasts that soon, entire divisions will function primarily on AI. He explores the potential of GPT-6 in revolutionizing scientific research and worries about unintentional AI persuasion. With insights on health, culture, and the future landscape of work, his perspectives offer a thought-provoking look at the AI-driven world.

Jonny Steinberg, a notable South African writer and academic, dives into the intricacies of crime and punishment in South Africa. He unpacks the reluctance of police to confront crowds, offering innovative solutions for reform. Steinberg also reveals the complexities of Nelson and Winnie Mandela's marriage, showcasing their limited knowledge of each other despite profound devotion. Additionally, he discusses the lasting legacy of apartheid on mass incarceration, the changing perceptions of the ANC, and the future of South African literature.