Listeners dive into the fascinating impact of AI on creativity and personal projects, including pottery with innovative glaze techniques. The transformative effects of AI on software development are discussed, revealing the shift towards intuitive coding practices. The challenges of scaling AI in underserved regions like Africa are highlighted, emphasizing the need for connectivity. Finally, the conversation navigates the evolving role of technologists, advocating for the essential human element in AI-driven art and innovation.

Michele Elam, the William Robertson Coe Professor of Humanities in the English Department at Stanford University and a Race and Technology Affiliate at the Center for Comparative Studies in Race and Ethnicity, joins Behind the Tech to discuss her journey and work. Michele shares her unique path from a humanities background to engaging with technology and AI, influenced by her father's career as an astronautics engineer.  In this episode, Michele and Kevin explore the intersection of humanities and technology, discussing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and the ethical considerations of AI. They delve into Michele's work at the Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence at Stanford, where she represents arts and diversity perspectives. The conversation also touches on the cultural status of arts versus technology, the impact of storytelling in shaping cultural imagination, and the evolving education of engineering students to include social and ethical questions.   Kevin and Michele reflect on the balance between deep expertise and broad curiosity, the role of arts in technology, and the importance of integrating different perspectives to address complex societal issues. They also discuss the significance of tradition and innovation, drawing insights from Kevin's recent trip to Japan where he observed the coexistence of advanced technology and centuries-old crafts.  Michele Elam  Kevin Scott    Behind the Tech with Kevin Scott    Discover and listen to other Microsoft podcasts.    

As 2024 wraps up, the discussion reflects on how AI has enriched creativity across music and art. Notable guests share insights on the collaboration between technology and artistic expression, including the transformative role of generative AI in education. The maker movement on platforms like YouTube fosters hands-on learning, blending creativity with engineering. Challenges in math education are addressed, advocating for contextual learning. Predictions for AI's future highlight exciting innovations and resolutions aimed at enhancing creativity in the tech landscape.

Refik Anadol, an internationally renowned media artist and director, joins Behind the Tech to discuss his journey from a childhood fascination with computers in Istanbul to becoming a pioneer in the aesthetics of data and machine intelligence. In this episode, Refik shares his early inspirations—including his first encounter with a Commodore computer and the impact of science fiction on his imagination—and discusses how his work explores the intersection of art and technology.  Kevin and Refik delve into the challenges and possibilities that ubiquitous computing has imposed on humanity, and how the perception and experience of time and space are radically changing in the digital age. They explore Refik's innovative projects, such as data-driven machine learning algorithms that create abstract, colorful environments and his immersive audio/visual installations that transform entire buildings. They also discuss the significance of AI in art, the concept of 'data painting,' and the future of digital art in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.  Learn more and support these organizations in North Carolina:  John Britt Pottery  akira satake ceramics | GoFundMe  Mudtools  East Fork    Refik Anadol Studio | Refik Anadol Living Art  Kevin Scott    Behind the Tech with Kevin Scott    Discover and listen to other Microsoft podcasts.    

Ben Laude, a concert pianist and music educator, joins Behind the Tech to discuss his journey from a suburban childhood in Austin, Texas to becoming a world-renowned classical pianist and YouTube creator. Ben shares his early inspirations—including his father's dabbling in piano and his own private obsession with classical music that began in high school—and discusses the importance of having a good teacher and the role of the early Internet in fueling his passion for piano.  In this episode, Kevin and Ben explore the impact of AI on art and artists, the significance of classical piano in Ben's life and his efforts to popularize classical piano through educational content. They discuss the challenges and rewards of pursuing a career in music, the magic of bringing encoded scores (musical notations that serve as instructions for how to perform the music) to life, and the importance of community and feedback in achieving success.  Ben Laude | Utah State University  Kevin Scott    Behind the Tech with Kevin Scott    Discover and listen to other Microsoft podcasts.    

Sal Khan, CEO of Khan Academy, shares his journey from MIT to education innovation. Discusses Khanmigo, diverse learning styles, and building confidence in students. Explores AI in education, challenges in teaching math, and transition to AI. Mentions the impact of mentors and AI in education on empowering learners.

Ethan Mollick, Wharton professor, discusses the transformative potential of AI, the evolution of personal computing in the '80s, and the accessibility of technology for non-coders. They also explore entrepreneurial opportunities in tech shifts, regulating emerging technologies, and the future of education with innovative teaching methods like MOOCs.

Venture capitalist Mike Volpi shares insights on his career journey from Cisco to Index Ventures, his investments in AI and open-source companies, and the challenges and evolution of investing in AI. He also discusses his childhood influences in engineering, passion for cars, and the importance of adaptability in the tech industry.

In 2023, after departing his role as CTO of Facebook, Mike Schroepfer launched the climate venture capital investment firm Gigascale Capital with the goal of building climate tech companies. Working alongside co-founders Victoria Beasley and Evaline Tsai, Gigascale’s investments are today driving advancements in clean energy, biotech and computing. In this episode, Kevin and Mike discuss Mike’s early childhood and how he got interested in the study of computer science, career experiences in engineering that shaped him, and what ultimately led to his decision to focus on climate change and philanthropic endeavors through his work at Gigascale and his organization Additional Ventures, respectively.   Mike Schroepfer | Gigascale  Kevin Scott    Behind the Tech with Kevin Scott    Discover and listen to other Microsoft podcasts at news.microsoft.com/podcasts.

Engineer and YouTuber Xyla Foxlin shares her journey in the maker space, discussing challenges faced, overcoming imposter syndrome, and encouraging diversity. From childhood curiosity to balancing passion and obligations, she emphasizes the importance of hands-on learning, community engagement, and embracing hobbies to combat burnout.