GeekWire

Colette Stallbaumer, co-founder of Microsoft WorkLab and general manager for Microsoft 365 Copilot, shares insights from her book on how the pandemic transformed work dynamics. She discusses the rapid adoption of remote tools that paved the way for AI integration, the importance of maintaining human connection in a tech-driven workplace, and presents innovative concepts like 'agent bosses' and the fluid, Hollywood-style team model. Colette emphasizes the need for humans to evolve alongside AI and reflects on the continuous change shaping our work environments.

Ed Bott, an award-winning journalist with over 30 years of experience covering Microsoft, shares insights on the company's new AI features for Windows. He discusses the implications of 'Hey Copilot' voice commands and the expansive potential of 'Copilot Actions' for local files. Ed raises questions about user willingness to interact vocally with computers and examines security concerns. He analyzes whether Microsoft's push into AI signifies a crucial platform shift and reflects on what the end of Windows 10 support means for users.

Chris Pirillo, a tech enthusiast and founder of the CTRL+ALT+CREATE Live event series, shares insights on the transformative power of AI in creating apps without coding. He emphasizes 'vibe coding', where anyone can turn ideas into reality using AI tools. Chris discusses the latest tools like Gemini Pro, showcases innovative projects, and explores business opportunities for non-developers. Additionally, he shares experiences from his upcoming event aimed at empowering individuals to craft unique creations while highlighting the rapid improvement in AI applications.

T.A. McCann, a Seattle-based serial entrepreneur and managing director at Pioneer Square Labs, dives into the transformative impact of AI on startups. He discusses how AI agents are automating tasks that once required large teams, heralding the rise of the one-person billion-dollar company. McCann also highlights the shift in strategic advantages toward distribution and data, and how AI-generated personas are replacing traditional market research. He predicts a future where agent-to-agent conversations will change negotiations, reshaping the startup landscape.

Shirish Nadkarni, a serial entrepreneur and former Microsoft product leader, discusses the controversial $100K fee for H-1B visas, emphasizing its potential impact on innovation and U.S. tech. He argues that immigrants are vital job creators, citing studies that show H-1Bs enhance wages for native workers. Shirish shares his journey as an immigrant and highlights how the U.S. can maintain its competitive edge in AI by welcoming global talent. He advocates for policy reforms like startup visas and removing country caps on green cards to support entrepreneurial growth.

Jay Richman, Amazon's VP of Product and Technology, shares insights on the revolutionary impact of AI in media and advertising. He discusses his journey from early mobile apps to leading AI tools that simplify ad creation for brands. Richman highlights the capabilities of Amazon’s new agentic AI, designed to personalize content and enhance relevance without overwhelming users. He also touches on lessons learned from his time at Spotify, including how tailored creatives can significantly boost sales.

Mark Briggs, an executive coach and AI strategist from Seattle, shares insights on upgrading your 'personal operating system' with AI. He dives into practical tips for transforming cluttered notes into a streamlined knowledge base and how AI can combat procrastination by acting as a collaborator. The discussion also touches on AI's transformative role in executive coaching and information retrieval using innovative tools like Perplexity. Plus, listeners enjoy a fun game of 'Bot or Not' to differentiate between human and AI interactions.

Joining the discussion is Mike Lewis, a Seattle journalist, radio host, and bar owner, known for his insight into sports and business. They dive into Steve Ballmer's controversial sponsorship deal with the Clippers, raising eyebrows in the NBA. OpenAI's jaw-dropping $1.1 billion acquisition of Statsig illuminates the fierce competition for AI talent. The conversation also delves into the implications of the recent Google antitrust ruling and its potential impact on Microsoft, blending tech and sports in an electrifying way.

Paul Allen, the late co-founder of Microsoft, shares his visionary insights in a candid 2011 interview. He discusses his innovative $3.1 billion philanthropic fund aimed at revolutionizing science and technology. Allen reflects on his partnership with Bill Gates and the impact of his passions from brain science to music. He reveals how science fiction fueled his dreams and led to pioneering projects like Spaceship One. The conversation showcases his dedication to philanthropy, creativity, and community resilience beyond his lifetime.

Jeff Shulman, a marketing professor and civic advocate at the University of Washington's Foster School, dives into Seattle's dynamic landscape amidst the AI boom. He discusses the city’s struggle to nurture superstar startups and the evolving role of AI in marketing education. Shulman also reflects on Seattle's rich tech history in contrast to Silicon Valley and shares passionate insights about the potential revival of the Seattle Supersonics, illustrating the deep connections between sports, identity, and innovation in the region.