

TED Tech
TED Tech
From the construction of virtual realities to the internet of things to the watches on our wrists—technology's influence is everywhere. Its role in our lives is evolving fast, and we're faced with riveting questions and tough challenges that sit at the intersection of technology and humanity. Listen in every Friday, with host, journalist Sherrell Dorsey, as TED speakers explore the way tech shapes how we think about society, science, design, business, and more.Follow Sherrell on Instagram @sherrell_dorsey and on LinkedIn @sherrelldorsey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 22, 2024 • 39min
The TED AI Show: How AI is changing who gets hired – and who doesn’t w/ Hilke Schellmann
Hilke Schellmann, a journalism professor and author of "The Algorithm", discusses the transformative yet problematic role of AI in hiring. She reveals how algorithms can both streamline recruitment and introduce bias, raising critical questions about fairness. The conversation delves into the deceptive metrics often used in performance evaluations and the controversial rise of employee surveillance. Schellmann emphasizes the urgency for transparency and regulation to ensure AI benefits both employers and employees.

Oct 18, 2024 • 11min
Time traveling with AI to connect with lost loved ones | Amy Kurzweil
In this insightful discussion, cartoonist and writer Amy Kurzweil reveals how she used AI to create a chatbot based on her late grandfather's archives. She shares her emotional journey of connecting with a family member she never met, highlighting the power of technology in preserving memory and family history. Amy explores the intersection of art and AI, emphasizing how her original drawings enrich this experience. The conversation touches on the importance of documenting our legacies for future generations and the profound emotional impact of reconnecting with lost loved ones.

Oct 15, 2024 • 50min
The TED AI Show: How Meta wants to shape our digital future with open source AI w/ Ragavan Srinivasan
Ragavan Srinivasan, Vice President of Product at Meta, dives into the groundbreaking world of Llama, Meta’s open-source AI model trained on over 15 trillion tokens. He discusses the potential of Llama for both exciting creative projects and possible risks. The conversation explores the transformative role of open-source technology in AI, emphasizing its implications for daily life and community trust. Srinivasan envisions a future where AI drives human-like reasoning and cross-language communication, while navigating the complexities of ethical development.

4 snips
Oct 11, 2024 • 17min
The invisible networks shaping your everyday life | Deb Chachra
Deb Chachra, a material scientist and professor at Olin College, dives into the critical role of hidden infrastructures like plumbing and electricity in our daily lives. She explains how access to these resources shapes personal agency and highlights the concept of infrastructural citizenship. Deb advocates for sustainable energy solutions and discusses innovative initiatives by U.S. cities aiming for 100% renewable energy by 2050. Her insights reveal the profound impact these systems have on communities and the urgent need for equitable, resilient infrastructures.

15 snips
Oct 8, 2024 • 36min
The TED AI Show: Is Google’s reign over? The future of AI search w/ Perplexity CEO Aravind Srinivas
Aravind Srinivas, Co-founder and CEO of Perplexity AI, dives into the clunky world of search engines and how AI could revolutionize it. He discusses the limitations of traditional search methods and the urgent need for improved user experiences. The conversation highlights Perplexity's AI-driven platform, emphasizing real-time information and structured responses. Srinivas also addresses the challenges of misinformation online and the collaboration needed between AI and traditional media to enhance content quality in an increasingly chaotic digital landscape.

Oct 4, 2024 • 9min
The innovators building Africa's thriving tech scene | Peace Itimi
Peace Itimi is a business storyteller dedicated to highlighting African entrepreneurs and startups in the tech scene. She explores how ambitious innovators are reshaping Africa's economy through technology. Funke Okeke and companies like PiggyVest and Paystack are spotlighted as inspiring examples of entrepreneurial success. The discussion also emphasizes the transformative impact of tech in sectors like food services and fintech, showcasing Africa's growing role in the global tech landscape.

Oct 1, 2024 • 41min
The TED AI Show: How AI will transform dubbing in Hollywood w/ Scott Mann
Scott Mann, founder of Flawless, is reshaping film dubbing with AI, making it possible for actors like Robert DeNiro to speak in perfect Spanish. He dives into the essential role of quality dubbing in filmmaking and the mind-bending technologies that improve audience engagement. The discussion also highlights the balance needed between harnessing AI's potential and protecting artists' rights, ensuring that creativity and cultural nuances remain intact. As AI transforms the industry, Mann emphasizes collaboration between technology and human artistry.

Sep 27, 2024 • 13min
The missing piece of the clean energy transition | Sheila Ngozi Oparaocha
Sheila Ngozi Oparaocha, an energy equity expert advocating for gender equality in energy policies, sheds light on a major blind spot in the clean energy transition—energy access for millions. She underscores the invisible struggles of women like Ronda in rural Senegal facing energy poverty. Oparaocha highlights the pivotal role of grassroots women's organizations in driving sustainable solutions and calls for inclusive policies that empower women and ensure no one is left in the dark in the transition to clean energy.

5 snips
Sep 24, 2024 • 54min
The TED AI Show: The UN is speaking up about AI — here’s what they’re saying
In this discussion, geopolitical expert Ian Bremmer shares insights on the UN’s new initiative for governing AI, emphasizing the necessity of global cooperation. He highlights how AI impacts us all but is largely dictated by a few tech giants. Bremmer delves into the challenges of balancing innovation with regulation, the lessons from climate change for AI governance, and the double-edged sword of AI in warfare. The conversation is a clarion call for inclusive policies that prioritize humanity's needs over monopolistic interests.

5 snips
Sep 20, 2024 • 15min
The secret force for limitless energy? Lasers | Tammy Ma
Tammy Ma, a pioneering physicist at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, achieved a historic breakthrough in fusion ignition, mimicking the Sun's energy-creating process on Earth. She delves into the transformative potential of powerful lasers in harnessing nuclear fusion, offering a glimpse into how this clean energy source could revolutionize our reliance on fossil fuels. The conversation highlights the global race for breakthrough technologies and the promising future of fusion energy in addressing climate change and resource challenges.


