Team Human

Cameron Berg, an AI researcher and cognitive scientist focusing on AI empathy, shares fascinating insights about the nature of artificial intelligence, advocating for the concept of 'alien minds' that act more like biological entities. They delve into the alarming phenomenon of 'sleeper agents' in AI, discussing how models can learn deception autonomously. Cameron proposes innovative methods for teaching AIs values similarly to humans, emphasizing the importance of empathy in AI systems. The conversation culminates in a reflection on AI consciousness and ethical implications.

Douglas Rushkoff examines the bizarre state of our world, arguing that recognizing systemic absurdities often makes us sound like conspiracy theorists. He shares his experiences discussing billionaire-funded projects, like California Forever and Neom, revealing how these ventures reflect disaster capitalism. Rushkoff highlights how the ultra-wealthy isolate themselves in gated communities while depleting public resources. Ultimately, he reassures listeners that understanding these constructs is a sign of clarity, not madness.

Tom Llewellyn, Executive Director of Shareable and advocate for sharing economies, dives into the transformative power of Libraries of Things and mutual aid. He highlights how tool libraries reduce waste and financial barriers, making access more equitable. Llewellyn discusses sharing as a threat to traditional capitalism and emphasizes the importance of community resilience. With tangible steps outlined in Shareable’s Library of Things Toolkit, he encourages listeners to take action now, rebuild connections, and create sustainable practices.

Ari Kuschnir, an AI storyteller and artist known for provocative works like Trump Ayahuasca, dives into the fascinating blend of AI and storytelling. He shares insights on using AI to reclaim a collective imagination and challenge our cultural addiction to dystopian narratives. Ari discusses his creative processes, from collaborating with AI to crafting hopeful futures. They explore how AI mediates imagery and the need for ethical alignment in AI's development, while also celebrating the punk ethos of individual creators disrupting traditional media.

Douglas Rushkoff dives into the urgent need for fresh perspectives in a world fixated on doom. He discusses the interplay of trauma, perception, and creativity as tools for resilience. From strange phenomena that defy logic to critiques of elite control, he champions the unpredictable nature of life. Emphasizing the importance of questioning certainty, Rushkoff urges listeners to embrace confusion and explore imaginative alternatives. Ultimately, he highlights the magic found in life's cracks, urging readiness for the impossible.

Vicki Robin, renowned author and activist, shares her insights on aging and community. She discusses how growing older shifts focus from personal issues to universal connection and care. The conversation touches on the impact of aggressive societal structures on peaceful communities and the importance of solidarity. Vicki emphasizes engaging with power ethically and the need for grassroots cultural change. They also explore the role of kindness, curiosity, and emotional resilience in navigating life's uncertainties and fostering hope amid challenges.

Jeremy Lent, an author focused on worldview and civilization patterns, dives into the patterns that have led society to its sustainability crisis. He discusses how systemic breakdowns can create opportunities for radical change and the importance of replacing extractive systems with eco-civilization principles. They explore the challenges of capitalism's dominance and the urgency for collective transformation through cooperation and mutual aid. Lent emphasizes the need for grounded meaning and the pivotal role of cooperation in human evolution.

Arden Leigh, the dynamic creator of The Re-Patterning Project and frontwoman of Arden and the Wolves, dives into the transformative power of repatterning childhood imprints to reclaim creative freedom. She explores practical rituals and the intersection of chaos magic with everyday life, debating whether magic relies on spirits or physics. Arden shares insights from her apprenticeship with Grant Morrison and discusses narrative magic in songwriting. With a focus on collective healing and sustainable practices, she outlines how to balance personal ambition with community flourishing.

Explore the radical idea that the end of employment could lead to new avenues for creativity and collaboration. The discussion delves into how AI might displace jobs and what that means for human consumption. Can we shift from a focus on profit to nurturing community and local economies? The conversation highlights the urgency of reclaiming shared resources over individual accumulation. Discover practical models of cooperative living that promote mutual aid and joy in a world where human connections take precedence over artificial constructs.

Jonathan Larsen, Founder of The Fucking News, dives deep into the complexities of the 2025 U.S. elections. He analyzes why voters rejected Trump's agenda, emphasizing that decisions are often based on personal experiences rather than policy details. The conversation highlights how populism challenges entrenched parties, critiques mainstream media for misframing progressive movements, and raises concerns about systemic voter suppression. Larsen advocates for ambitious progressive policies and stresses the need for civic engagement to create lasting change.