Crazy Wisdom

In this episode of Crazy Wisdom, Stewart Alsop chats with Ian Mason, who works on architecture and delivery of AI and ML solutions, including LLMs and retrieval-augmented generation (RAG). They explore topics like the evolution of knowledge graphs, how AI models like BERT and newer foundational models function, and the challenges of integrating deterministic systems with language models. Ian explains his process of creating solutions for clients, particularly using RAG and LLMs to support automated tasks, and discusses the future potential of AI, contrasting the hype with practical use cases. You can find more about Ian on his LinkedIn profile.Check out this GPT we trained on the conversation!Timestamps00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:32 Understanding Knowledge Graphs02:03 Hybrid Systems and AI Models03:39 Philosophical Insights on AI05:01 RAG and Knowledge Graph Integration07:11 Challenges in AI and Knowledge Graphs11:40 Multimodal AI and Future Prospects13:44 Artificial Intelligence vs. Artificial Linear Algebra17:50 Silicon Valley and AI Hype30:44 Defining AGI and Embodied Intelligence32:29 Potential Risks and Mistakes of AI Agents35:04 The Role of Human Oversight in AI38:00 Understanding Vector Databases43:28 Building Solutions with Modern Tools46:52 The Future of Solution Development47:43 Personal Journey into Coding57:25 The Importance of Practical Learning59:44 Conclusion and Contact InformationKey InsightsThe evolution of AI models: Ian Mason discusses how foundational models like BERT have been overtaken by newer, more capable language models, which can perform tasks that once required multiple models. He highlights that while earlier models like BERT still have their uses, foundational models have simplified and expanded AI’s capabilities.The role of knowledge graphs: Knowledge graphs provide structured, deterministic ways of handling data, which can complement language models. Ian explains that while LLMs are great for articulating responses based on large datasets, they lack the ability to handle logical and architectural connections between pieces of information, which knowledge graphs can provide.RAG (Retrieval-Augmented Generation) systems: Ian delves into how RAG systems help refine AI output by feeding language models relevant data from a pre-searched database, reducing hallucinations. By narrowing down the possible answers and focusing the LLM on high-quality data, RAG ensures more accurate and contextually appropriate responses.Limitations of language models: While LLMs can generate plausible-sounding responses, they lack deep architectural understanding and can easily hallucinate or provide inaccurate results without carefully curated input. Ian points out the importance of combining LLMs with structured data systems like knowledge graphs or vector databases to ground the output.Vector databases and embeddings: Ian explains how vector databases, which use embeddings and cosine similarity, are crucial for narrowing down the most relevant data in a RAG system. This modern approach outperforms traditional keyword searches by considering semantic meaning rather than just text similarity.AI’s impact on business solutions: The conversation highlights how AI, particularly through tools like RAG and LLMs, can streamline business processes. For instance, Ian uses AI to automate customer service email drafting, breaking down complex customer queries and retrieving the most relevant answers, significantly improving operational efficiency.The future of AI in business: Ian believes AI’s real-world impact will come from its integration into larger systems rather than revolutionary standalone changes. While there is significant hype around AGI and other speculative technologies, the focus for the near future should be on practical applications like automating business workflows, where AI can create measurable value without over-promising its capabilities.

On this episode of Crazy Wisdom, I, Stewart Alsop, sit down with Ben Ford and Michael Greenberg for a dynamic conversation. Ben is the founder of Mission Control Dev, and Michael is the founder of Third Brain, a company focused on automating business operations. We explore a variety of topics, including the real meaning of "artificial intelligence," how AI is impacting various industries, and whether we truly have AI today. Michael introduces his concept of "Third Brain," a digital layer of operations, while Ben reflects on his military background and how it shapes his current work. Both offer unique perspectives on where technology is headed, especially around the future of knowledge work, digital transformation, and the human element in an increasingly automated world. Check out the links to learn more about Ben's Mission Control Dev and Michael's Third Brain.Check out this GPT we trained on the conversation!Timestamps00:00 Introduction to the Crazy Wisdom Podcast00:15 Meet the Guests: Ben Ford and Michael Greenberg01:04 Exploring Third Brain and Mission Control03:05 Debating Artificial Intelligence05:24 The Role of AI in Business Operations08:54 Challenges in Digital Transformation16:59 Implementing AI and Digital Operations29:12 Exploring Puzzle App: A New Tool for Documentation30:14 The Power of Graphs in Computer Science32:14 Infinite Dimensions and String Theory32:57 AI Systems and Social Media Content33:31 Wardley Mapping and Business Processes35:26 The Future of AI and Job Security35:49 AI Whisperers Meetup and Conference43:35 The Role of Subject Matter Experts in AI44:13 The Impact of AI on Learning and Careers55:09 Challenges in Implementing AI Chatbots57:10 Closing Thoughts and Contact InformationKey InsightsThe distinction between AI and true intelligence: Ben and Michael both agree that current AI, particularly large language models (LLMs), lacks true intelligence. While these systems are highly capable of pattern recognition and can execute specific workflows efficiently, they fall short of human-like intelligence due to their inability to form cognitive loops, embody real-world understanding, or have agency. AI today excels at capacity but not in truly autonomous thinking.Digital transformation is continuous, not a one-time event: The idea that digital transformation has failed was discussed, with Ben and Michael pointing out that the problem lies in the perception that digital transformation has a start and end point. In reality, businesses are constantly transforming, and the process is more about ongoing adaptation than achieving a static, “transformed” state. Success in this realm requires persistent updates and improvements, especially in operational structure.AI as an enabler, not a replacement: Both guests emphasized that AI should be seen as a tool that augments human capability rather than replaces it. AI can significantly enhance the capacity of knowledge workers, enabling them to focus on more creative or strategic tasks by automating routine processes. However, human oversight and strategic input are still essential, especially when it comes to structuring data and providing context for AI systems to function effectively.The future of work involves "AI whisperers": Stewart introduces the idea of "AI whisperers" — people skilled in communicating with and directing AI systems to achieve specific outcomes. This requires a high level of linguistic and operational understanding, suggesting that those who can finesse AI’s capabilities with precision will be in high demand in the future workforce. This shift may see creative, word-focused individuals becoming increasingly critical players in business operations.Structured data is crucial for effective AI deployment: A major challenge in deploying AI for businesses is the lack of well-structured data. Many organizations lack the documentation or system integration needed to effectively implement AI, meaning much of the initial work revolves around organizing data. Without this foundational step, attempts at AI deployment—such as customer service chatbots—are prone to failure, as the AI systems are only as good as the data they're fed.Graphs as the framework for business processes: Ben and Michael both highlight the importance of graphs in modern operations. Graphs, as a way to map out relationships between different elements of a system, are key to understanding and implementing digital operations. This concept allows for the visualization and optimization of workflows, helping businesses better navigate the complexities of modern digital ecosystems.AI is accelerating, and businesses need to keep up: One of the key takeaways from the episode is the rapid pace of AI advancement and its effect on businesses. Companies that fail to incorporate AI tools into their operations risk being left behind. Ben points out that the train has already left the station, and businesses need to quickly adapt by leveraging AI to streamline their processes and maintain competitiveness in an increasingly automated world.

In this episode of Crazy Wisdom, host Stewart Alsop talks with Phil Filippak, a software arcanist and knowledgemancer from Ideaflow. The conversation covers a range of topics, including knowledge management, the discipline behind organizing knowledge, personal systems for note-taking, and the impact of AI on programming and game development. Phil shares his experiences with tools like Obsidian and discusses the balance between creative exploration and over-systematization in managing information. You can follow Phil on Twitter at @Blisstweeting (https://twitter.com/Blisstweeting) for more insights.Check out this GPT we trained on the conversation!Timestamps00:00 Introduction to the Crazy Wisdom Podcast00:49 Phil's Journey and Knowledge Management02:17 The Discipline of Knowledge Management05:49 Personal Struggles and Systematization09:43 AI's Role in Knowledge Management16:16 The Future of AI and Programming21:03 Monasteries and the Future of Coding28:03 Navigating Quests Without Markers28:46 Evolution of Game Engines32:02 Creating Games as a Solo Developer34:42 The Balance Between Art and Commerce in Gaming45:00 Knowledge Management in Large Companies52:03 Final Thoughts and Contact InformationKey InsightsThe Role of Discipline in Knowledge Management: Phil Filippak emphasizes that knowledge management is more than just gathering information—it's about organizing it with discipline. This process involves creating orderly structures, either mentally or through notes, to track progress across different areas of interest. Discipline is crucial for maintaining an interconnected understanding of multiple fields.Over-Systematization Can Be a Trap: While using tools like Obsidian to systematize knowledge can be helpful, Phil warns that too much structure can become burdensome. Over-systematizing can make it harder to add new information and can stifle creativity, leading to a reluctance to engage with the system at all.AI’s Transformative Role in Programming: Phil discusses how AI is changing the landscape of software development, particularly by assisting with tedious tasks like debugging. However, he points out that AI hasn't yet reached a point where it can handle more creative or complex problem-solving without human intervention, leaving room for the enjoyment and intellectual satisfaction that come from manual coding.Creativity in Game Development is Often Stifled by Commercial Pressures: Large gaming companies, driven by shareholder value, tend to avoid risks and stick to formulas that are proven to sell. Phil notes that this limits experimentation, whereas indie game developers and smaller studios—especially in places like Serbia—have more freedom to innovate and take creative risks.Periodic “Resets” in Personal Knowledge Systems: Phil recommends performing occasional resets on personal knowledge systems when they become too complex. This involves stripping away unnecessary rules and simplifying processes to keep the system flexible and sustainable, helping to avoid burnout from excessive structure.The Idea of a Code Monastery: Drawing on the historical role of monasteries as centers of knowledge preservation, Phil introduces the idea of a "code monastery" where programmers could dedicate themselves to maintaining and refining software. This concept highlights the aesthetic and spiritual satisfaction of combining technical expertise with a disciplined, purpose-driven lifestyle.The Future of Programming and AI: Looking ahead, Phil acknowledges that while AI will likely continue to take over more routine programming tasks, there will always be people passionate about coding for its intellectual rewards. He believes that even in an AI-dominated future, the human element of creativity and problem-solving in programming will remain essential.

In this episode of the Crazy Wisdom podcast, host Stewart Alsop welcomes guest Neal Davies, a former computer science professor and nuclear engineering PhD, currently working at the Urbit Foundation. Their conversation covers a range of intriguing topics including the Deseret Alphabet, a phonetic alphabet from the 19th century, Neal’s experiences balancing generalist and specialist roles, and the influence of AI in both his work and the world at large. Neal also shares his insights on syntax, symbols, and the cultural shifts that have shaped modern consciousness. You can connect with Neal on Twitter @Sigilante or find him on Urbit as @Lagravnokvap.Check out this GPT we trained on the conversation!Timestamps00:00 Introduction to the Crazy Wisdom Podcast00:19 Exploring the Deseret Alphabet04:02 Challenges and Rewards of Being a Generalist06:47 Impact of AI on Generalism and Specialization08:24 AI in Code and Image Generation13:43 Salvador Dali's Paranoiac Critical Method17:18 Symbolism in Art and Language20:49 The Spiritual Connection with Language30:05 Greek Influence on Language and Zero32:59 Exploring Number Systems35:10 Rational Numbers and Greek Innovations38:12 The Evolution of Linguistic Systems40:29 Cultural Shifts: 1870s to 1960s45:46 The Impact of the 1960s on Modern Thought49:58 The Role of Illegible Spaces in Innovation56:11 Concluding Thoughts and Future DirectionsKey InsightsDeseret Alphabet as a Cultural and Linguistic Experiment: Neal Davies is deeply fascinated by the 19th-century Deseret Alphabet, a phonetic alphabet created to help immigrants in Utah become literate. Its unique structure and religious origins present a profound example of how language can be intentionally shaped to serve a community, although this project ultimately didn’t gain widespread adoption.Balancing Generalism and Specialization: Neal shares his personal journey of pursuing generalist roles while maintaining expertise in specific fields like computer science and nuclear engineering. He emphasizes the value of broad, diverse knowledge in a world that often rewards specialization. His approach allows for flexibility and creativity in problem-solving, despite the professional challenges generalists may face in a society focused on specialization.AI as a Tool for Productivity, Not Replacement: Neal highlights the utility of AI in his work, particularly in code generation and ideation. He discusses how tools like GitHub’s Copilot act as force multipliers for developers, offering a starting point that saves time without replacing the critical thinking required for final implementation. AI is seen as a support system for creativity, especially in programming and image generation.Syntax and Symbols as Catalysts for Thought: Neal discusses the profound relationship between syntax, symbols, and thought. By exploring different symbol systems, such as mathematical notation or alphabets like Deseret, he argues that they can unlock new ways of thinking. Symbol systems not only shape reasoning but allow people to build layers of understanding and explore more complex ideas.Cultural Experimentation and Enclaves: Reflecting on the importance of high variance in human endeavor, Neal supports creating enclaves of culture and thought outside the mainstream. He argues that monoculture, driven by surveillance and conformity, limits the ability to think freely and explore novel solutions. Platforms like Urbit, which emphasize privacy and decentralized communication, provide a space for communities to experiment and innovate without being surveilled or controlled.The Failure and Legacy of the 1960s Counterculture: Neal suggests that the cultural revolution of the 1960s was an ambitious attempt at societal transformation that ultimately failed. Co-opted by commercialism, politics, and other forces, the movement couldn’t fully realize its vision of reshaping consciousness. However, it planted seeds for future cultural shifts, much like the influence of the Romanticists in the 19th century.The Importance of Illegibility in Innovation: Neal explains that true freedom in innovation comes from creating spaces where ideas and communities can evolve without constant oversight. He draws a parallel to Hemingway’s theory that the unseen parts of a story are as important as the visible ones. Similarly, innovation flourishes when parts of a system or community remain illegible and unobserved, allowing for creativity and growth beyond the constraints of external control.

In this episode of the Crazy Wisdom podcast, Stewart Alsop speaks with Anand Dwivedi, a Senior Data Scientist at ICE, returning for his second appearance. The conversation covers a range of topics including the evolution of machine learning models, the integration of AI into operating systems, and how innovations like Neuralink may reshape our understanding of human-machine interaction. Anand also touches on the role of cultural feedback in shaping human learning, the implications of distributed systems in cybersecurity, and his current project—training a language model on the teachings of his spiritual guru. For more information, listeners can connect with Anand on LinkedIn.Check out this GPT we trained on the conversation!Timestamps00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:25 Exploring GPT-4 and Machine Learning Innovations03:34 Apple's Integration of AI and Privacy Concerns06:07 Digital Footprints and the Evolution of Memory09:42 Neuralink and the Future of Human Augmentation14:20 Cybersecurity and Financial Crimes in the Digital Age20:53 The Role of LLMs and Human Feedback in AI Training29:50 Freezing Upper Layers and Formative Feedback30:32 Neuroplasticity in Sports and Growth32:00 Challenges of Learning New Skills as Adults32:44 Cultural Immersion and Cooking School34:21 Exploring Genetic Engineering and Neuroplasticity38:53 Neuralink and the Future of AI39:58 Physical vs. Digital World41:20 Existential Threats and Climate Risk45:15 Attention Mechanisms in LLMs48:22 Optimizing Positive Social Impact54:54 Training LLMs on Spiritual LecturesKey InsightsEvolution of Machine Learning Models: Anand Dwivedi highlights the advancement in machine learning, especially with GPT-4's ability to process multimodal inputs like text, images, and voice simultaneously. This contrasts with earlier models that handled each modality separately, signifying a shift towards more holistic AI systems that mirror human sensory processing.AI Integration in Operating Systems: The conversation delves into how AI, like Apple Intelligence, is being integrated directly into operating systems, enabling more intuitive interactions such as device management and on-device tasks. This advancement brings AI closer to daily use, ensuring privacy by processing data locally rather than relying on cloud-based systems.Neuralink and Transhumanism: Anand and Stewart discuss Neuralink’s potential to bridge the gap between human and artificial intelligence. Neuralink’s brain-computer interface could allow humans to enhance cognitive abilities and better compete in a future dominated by intelligent machines, raising questions about the ethics and risks of such direct brain-AI integration.Cultural Feedback and Learning: Anand emphasizes the role of cultural feedback in shaping human learning, likening it to how AI models are fine-tuned through feedback loops. He explains that different cultural environments provide varied feedback to individuals, influencing the way they process and adapt to information throughout their lives.Cybersecurity and Distributed Systems: The discussion highlights the dual-edged nature of distributed systems in cybersecurity. While these systems offer increased freedom and decentralization, they can also serve as breeding grounds for financial crimes and other malicious activities, pointing to the need for balanced approaches to internet freedom and security.Generative Biology and AI: A key insight from the episode is the potential of AI models, like those used for language processing, to revolutionize fields such as biology and chemistry. Anand mentions the idea of generative biology, where AI could eventually design new proteins or chemical compounds, leading to breakthroughs in drug discovery and personalized medicine.Positive Social Impact Through Technology: Anand introduces a thought-provoking idea about using AI and data analytics for social good. He suggests that technology can help bridge disparities in education and resources globally, with models being designed to measure and optimize for positive social impacts, rather than just profits or efficiency.

In this episode of Crazy Wisdom, Stewart Alsop interviews Jeno Giordano, an adventurer with a diverse background in fitness, underwater welding, offshore construction, and institutional finance. Jeno shares his incredible journey, beginning with how he faced his fear of drowning by becoming an underwater welder. He recounts the adrenaline-filled moments of working deep in the ocean, from demolition dives to narrowly avoiding life-threatening situations. They also explore his transition to working as a VIP host in Las Vegas and his dive into finance and blockchain. Jeno's path weaves through conquering fear, mastering high-risk environments, and eventually conceptualizing new economic and governance systems. To find more of Jeno’s work, check out his Substack or get in touch with him through LinkedIn.Check out this GPT we trained on the conversation!Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Jeno Giordano00:25 Diving into Underwater Welding01:58 Challenges and Adventures in Underwater Welding05:38 Saturation Diving Explained13:53 Transition from Diving to VIP Hosting20:39 Inventing SwingFit and Moving into Finance23:55 Living in Colorado and a New Mission27:52 Facing the Fear of Being Misunderstood29:33 A Spiritual Connection in Colorado30:31 Challenging the Status Quo with New Ideas37:41 Introducing Earth Economics46:03 The Concept of Earthtocracy50:45 The Reality of a Fragmented World53:37 Final Thoughts and Future PlansKey InsightsConquering Fear Through Action: Jeno Giordano shared how he confronted his fear of drowning by becoming an underwater welder. This decision became a transformative experience, teaching him to face challenges head-on. His story emphasizes how facing primal fears can lead to profound personal growth.The Unseen World of Offshore Construction: Jeno's career in underwater welding exposed the audience to the high-risk, high-reward environment of offshore construction. From welding pipes on oil rigs to handling explosives, he detailed the physical and mental endurance required for such a dangerous job. His experiences highlight the incredible work done in unseen, extreme environments.Importance of Adaptability: Jeno’s transition from a deep-sea diver to a VIP host in Las Vegas illustrates the importance of being adaptable and open to new opportunities. Despite the stark contrast between the roles, Jeno leveraged his unique background to connect with people from around the world, showing how diverse experiences can lead to unexpected opportunities.Insights into Institutional Finance and Blockchain: During his time in institutional finance, Jeno learned how massive sums of money move discreetly through "dark pools" and over-the-counter (OTC) trading. He emphasized that much of the world’s financial system operates behind the scenes, challenging public perceptions about how wealth and liquidity are managed on global markets.The Earth as an Economic Asset: One of the key insights Jeno shared is the idea of viewing the Earth itself as the most valuable asset. In his work on Earth Economics, he advocates for a new way of valuing natural resources and revising how we calculate global wealth by considering the intrinsic value of the planet’s ecosystems.A Vision for a New Governance Model: Jeno’s concept of "Earthtocracy" is a proposed new governance structure designed to address the limitations of current democratic and centralized systems. His model aims to create a more functional and balanced global society by taking the best aspects of various governance systems and applying them in a way that respects both individual and collective needs.Balancing Decentralization and Globalism: Jeno explained the paradox of decentralization in modern society, where, despite fears of centralization, we are fragmented into countless local and global power structures. He argues for a shift in perspective, urging people to view the Earth as a singular colony and create systems that are more interconnected and cooperative on a global scale.

Achref Trabelsi, an AI engineer at NeuroFlash from Tunisia, shares insights on the fascinating intersection of ancient history and modern technology. He explores Tunisia's rich past, from Carthage's rise to its cultural evolution through colonial times. The discussion shifts to AI's impact on society, education, and how it shapes our future. Achref reflects on his personal journey in AI and the importance of critical thinking in navigating technological advancements, all while drawing connections to the Arab Spring's legacy.

In this episode of Crazy Wisdom, host Stewart Alsop sits down with Jack, a tech enthusiast and founder of Vaporware, who also goes by Wereness on Twitter. The conversation spans topics such as Sweden’s historical roots in Viking culture, entrepreneurial spirit, and technological innovation. They discuss Jack’s insights into Swedish history, internet culture, and the origins of platforms like The Pirate Bay. The conversation eventually moves into Jack's focus on building the future of decentralized technology with projects like Vaporware and Plunder, alongside exploring concepts like solid-state interpreters. You can follow Jack on Twitter at @Wereness.Check out this GPT we trained on the conversation!Timestamps00:00 Introduction to the Crazy Wisdom Podcast00:03 Guest Introduction: Jack of Vaporware00:17 Learning Journeys and Voice Forms01:07 Swedish History Overview05:24 Sweden's Modernization and World War II08:23 Entrepreneurial Spirit in Northern Europe09:02 Gorbachev and the Soviet Union's Collapse14:36 Sweden's Pandemic Response and Conformity18:33 Host's Language Skills and Travel Aspirations21:13 Argentina's Economic History and Welfare State25:26 The U.S. Welfare State During COVID26:21 Designing Effective Welfare Systems27:40 Skepticism Towards UBI and Automation28:22 Argentina's Political Landscape29:16 Rethinking Political and Social Institutions31:22 Empiricism vs. Rationalism33:08 Challenges of Modern Technology and Information36:19 Reputation Systems and Information Control46:02 Introduction to Vaporware and Plunder47:54 Understanding Solid State Interpreters52:21 Conclusion and Contact InformationKey InsightsSweden's Unique Entrepreneurial History: Jack provides insight into Sweden's historical journey, highlighting how the country, known for its Viking roots and iron industry, has maintained an entrepreneurial spirit. Despite being late to modernize compared to other European nations, Sweden developed a strong engineering and industrial focus, fostering a culture of innovation that paved the way for companies like Spotify.Pirate Bay and Sweden’s Digital Pioneers: The discussion touches on how Sweden’s advanced internet infrastructure and highly connected population led to projects like The Pirate Bay. Jack notes that Sweden's conformity to trends and its neophilic culture contributed to the rise of such platforms, where digital piracy was once a mainstream practice, reflecting a larger cultural shift in media consumption.The Conformity Paradox in Sweden: A key theme in the episode is Sweden's paradoxical approach to conformity, where at a national level, the country made nonconformist decisions, such as its unique COVID-19 strategy. Jack explains this as a deeper form of conformity to long-standing institutional trust, showing that Swedish society's adherence to institutional plans is rooted in a high level of trust in central authority.Decentralized Technology and Vaporware: Jack introduces the concept of Vaporware, a project aimed at building decentralized technologies to provide users with greater control over their data. He explains that Vaporware is a company built on Plunder, an alternative to Urbit, and emphasizes how these technologies aim to solve current issues related to internet privacy, data ownership, and freedom.Solid-State Interpreter for Future-Proof Computing: One of the most technical insights revolves around the solid-state interpreter, which Jack describes as a combination of a virtual machine and a database. It allows for the creation of a computing environment where code and data can be stored and updated indefinitely, ensuring that the programs and data remain functional and accessible long into the future, unlike current software systems.Reputation Systems and Social Trust: Jack challenges traditional reputation systems, advocating for a more nuanced, context-specific method of evaluating trust in online interactions. He suggests that symbols or markers should be used to indicate trustworthiness based on context, rather than relying on simple upvotes or scores, which can be gamed and lead to dystopian outcomes.Global Institutional Collapse and the Need for New Systems: Both Stewart and Jack reflect on the global decline of traditional institutions, with welfare states and centralized governance models failing to meet modern needs. They emphasize the importance of rethinking political and economic systems to adapt to the changing technological landscape, drawing parallels between Sweden's past successes and the broader need for innovative, decentralized solutions globally.

Aaron Fried, founder of Dainty Diamond and former entrepreneur, dives into fascinating topics such as the allure of remote work in Buenos Aires and its vibrant culture. He shares insights on the evolution of e-commerce and the complexities of knowledge management in the AI era. Fried discusses the challenges of building personal connections in branding and highlights the role of AI in transforming business dynamics. Additionally, he touches on navigating the post-pandemic supply chain and the importance of community in entrepreneurship.

In this episode of the Crazy Wisdom Podcast, Stewart Alsop welcomes John Hyde, founder of Turf, to discuss the fascinating intersection of decentralized technology and virtual worlds. John shares the origin story of Turf, a virtual world built on Urbit, and delves into his experiences as a developer navigating the unique challenges and opportunities that Urbit presents. The conversation also touches on topics such as the future of decentralized computing, the business potential of Turf, and even John's personal journey with Orthodox Christianity. For those interested in following John's work, you can find updates on Twitter at @turf_on_urbit, or join the Turf group on Urbit. Additionally, John hosts "Turf Time" every Thursday at 1 PM Pacific, where participants can engage in discussions and explore new features in Turf.Check out this GPT we trained on the conversation!Timestamps00:00 Introduction to the Crazy Wisdom Podcast00:37 What is Turf?02:19 John Hyde's Journey into Development03:37 Challenges and Frustrations with Hoon14:08 Orthodox Christianity and Mysticism19:01 Future of Urbit and Turf's Business Potential27:28 Guest Introduction and Initial Discussion27:53 Building a Marketplace in Brazil29:51 Challenges and Successes in Business31:09 User Statistics and Platform Growth33:28 The Philosophy of Social Networks35:12 The Future of Distributed Computing37:17 Generational Perspectives on Technology41:17 The Tech Scene in the Bay Area41:56 Funding and Business Costs47:30 Product Roadmap and Development48:29 Technical Aspects and Tools52:51 Closing Remarks and Contact InformationKey InsightsThe Origins of Turf: Turf is a virtual world built on Urbit, designed by John Hyde, who was inspired by the idea of creating a multiplayer game where users could program their own items. This evolved into Turf, a decentralized platform where users can create, customize, and explore virtual spaces, reflecting the ethos of the Urbit ecosystem.Urbit as a Decentralized Platform: Urbit is not just another computing platform; it represents a complete reimagining of the internet's infrastructure. John explains how Urbit aims to replace the current centralized internet model with a decentralized one, giving users more control over their data and interactions. This decentralized nature is what makes platforms like Turf possible, where users can interact and transact without relying on centralized servers.Challenges in Hoon Programming: John discusses the unique challenges of programming in Hoon, Urbit's native language. While Hoon offers powerful capabilities for building secure and efficient applications, it also presents a steep learning curve, particularly due to its unconventional syntax and limited documentation. Despite these challenges, John sees potential in Hoon for creating robust, decentralized applications.Orthodox Christianity and Modern Technology: John, who was born and raised in the Orthodox Christian faith, touches on the interesting trend of Westerners converting to Orthodox Christianity. He connects this to a broader search for truth and tradition in a fragmented, digital world, seeing parallels between the decentralized, self-sovereign nature of Urbit and the spiritual grounding provided by his faith.Building a Business on Urbit: John is optimistic about Turf's business potential, particularly through the sale of virtual items. He envisions a marketplace within Turf where users can trade items, leveraging the decentralized nature of Urbit to ensure authenticity and ownership. This business model reflects the growing interest in digital ownership and NFTs in virtual environments.The Future of Urbit: John is hopeful but cautious about the future of Urbit. He believes that while the technology has the potential to revolutionize the internet, its success depends on continued innovation, improved usability, and sustained financial support. He also emphasizes the need for more user-friendly applications like Turf to drive adoption.The Cultural Impact of Urbit: The conversation highlights how Urbit is fostering a new kind of online community, where quality interaction and thoughtful engagement are prioritized over mass adoption. John observes that while the Urbit community is still relatively small, it is growing steadily, attracting people who value the platform's decentralized principles and the opportunity to participate in building a new internet paradigm.