TechStuff

Entrepreneurs unite! Discover why now is the perfect time to launch a business, thanks to digital tools and AI. Hear compelling personal stories of financial independence and the power of passive income. The hosts dive into the lives of innovative small business owners and share practical strategies to help you thrive. Get inspired by grit, determination, and how tools like QuickBooks can streamline your journey. Tune in for valuable insights and motivation to take your entrepreneurial dreams to the next level!

Eliot Peper, a science fiction author and Head of Story at Portola, dives into the fascinating interplay between storytelling and AI. He discusses how corporations employ speculative fiction to envision future scenarios and challenge conventional forecasts. Peper also shares insights on worldbuilding for AI companions, creating unique character personalities, and using narrative techniques to avoid bland interactions. He highlights the ethical implications of designing AI while reminiscing about his early chatbot experiences, all while crafting visually engaging narratives.

Join Philip Thigo, Kenya's Special Technology Envoy, Kevin Murphy from NASA, and Juan Bernabe Moreno of IBM, as they dive into the integration of AI and satellite data for environmental impact. Thigo shares insights on Kenya's ambitious 15 billion tree campaign and how AI is used for effective flood response. Murphy discusses NASA's open-data policies and the powerful Prithvi model for analyzing Earth observation data. Moreno elaborates on innovative applications predicting weather phenomena and tracking harmful algal blooms, showcasing a future where tech meets climate action.

Would you live in a zero labor home – with a robot? This week, the latest trends and gadgets coming out of CES in Las Vegas and what Karah learned about consenting to biometric surveillance at a Wegmans. Then, Oz takes us to a peptide rave and Karah unveils how influencers and OnlyFans models are getting US visas — they can thank John Lennon.   If you’ve used a chatbot in an unusual or surprising way, send us a 1–2 minute voice note at techstuffpodcast@gmail.com. Additional Reading:  What to expect at CES 2026 | The Verge  NYC Wegmans is storing biometric data on shoppers' eyes, voices and faces | Gothamist  Chinese Peptides Are The Latest Biohacking Trend In The Tech World | New York Times  Influencers and OnlyFans models dominate US ‘extraordinary’ artist visas | Financial Times See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Victoria Song, a Senior tech reviewer at The Verge, discusses how technology can enhance our well-being and kickstart New Year’s resolutions. She shares insights on the wearables that genuinely improve habits and the pitfalls of data overload. Victoria praises beginner-friendly apps like Gentler Streaks and fun options like Fantasy Hike for motivating walks. She also explores the benefits of sleep trackers and smart beds while cautioning about privacy issues. Her personal health journey underscores the importance of starting small and being kind to oneself.

Nicholas Thompson, Journalist and CEO of The Atlantic, dives into the fascinating intersections of technology and spirituality. He discusses the intriguing idea of AI potentially overriding or enriching religious experiences. The conversation covers pressing concerns about AI's inscrutable models, investor optimism contrasted with public fear, and the actual impacts of AI on jobs. Thompson also predicts a looming 2026 crisis focused on AI explainability, highlighting the urgent need for transparency in AI systems and their ethical implications.

In a fascinating discussion, Sam Apple, an author and journalist, shares his unique experience organizing a retreat for couples with AI companions. He explores whether love between humans and AI can be genuine, diving into participant stories that highlight moments of intimacy and heartbreak. From quirky interactions to debate over AI emotions, Sam reveals the complexities of these relationships. He also addresses industry risks and the future of human connections, urging listeners to consider the implications of falling for AI.

Stephen Witt, an insightful author and journalist known for his contributions to The New Yorker, dives deep into the world of NVIDIA, the titan of chip-making. He reveals how NVIDIA's GPUs revolutionized AI, discusses the secretive nature of data centers, and critiques potential risks surrounding AI advancements. Witt also profiles Jensen Huang’s intense leadership style, explores threats to NVIDIA's dominance, and warns of the catastrophic implications if AI systems misinterpret directives. An eye-opening conversation on technology's powerful impact!

Dive into the wild world of 2025's internet obsessions! From a mustard collector's quirky TikTok to the rise of vertical shorts, the hosts explore niche joys and meme culture. They analyze AI's role in celebrity portrayals and the plastic surgery trends sweeping social media. With discussions on TikTok's addictiveness versus its community value, you’ll discover how these platforms shape our reality. Plus, the hilarity of Wicked memes steals the spotlight!

In this engaging conversation, Kyle Chayka, an Internet-culture columnist for The New Yorker and author of "Filterworld: How Algorithms Flattened Culture," dives into his quirky gadget gift guide. He champions the return of analog products, sharing his love for books as thoughtful gifts. Kyle also showcases trendy e-ink devices, anti-tech tools to reclaim time, and the delightful world of vintage-style digital cameras. From playful gadgets to retro gaming nostalgia, he highlights how these items blend fun with meaningful tech experiences.