Uncanny Valley | WIRED

Carter Sherman, a writer and journalist known for her book, *The Second Coming: Sex and the Next Generation's Fight Over Its Future*, joins to dissect why Gen Z is experiencing a sex recession. The discussion reveals how social media shapes self-perception and intimacy, while political events create anxieties surrounding relationships. Sherman highlights the consequences of inadequate sex education and the influence of divisive communities like incels. The conversation also explores Gen Z's evolving views on sexual rights and healthy relationships.

In this engaging discussion, Dhruv Mehrotra, a WIRED analyst who examined the modified footage of Jeffrey Epstein's prison tapes, sheds light on his findings and the implications of video edits surrounding Epstein's death. He delves into the lack of transparency from authorities, the rise of conspiracy theories, and how these affect political debates. Dhruv also tackles the responsibility tech companies have in combating misinformation as he explores the precarious balance between truth and digital age skepticism.

Makena Kelly and Vittoria Elliott, both senior writers at WIRED specializing in technology and politics, delve into the evolving influence of DOGE 2.0 on U.S. government agencies. They discuss the chaotic integration of DOGE staffers into critical roles and the implications for accountability. The conversation highlights DOGE's connection to Elon Musk and challenges faced in modernizing government operations. They also touch on innovative projects like a mega API for inter-agency collaboration and the unique contributions of diverse team members in tech-driven initiatives.

This week, Kate Knibbs, a Senior Writer at Wired focusing on AI's impact, and Paresh Dave, who covers technology’s business implications, join the discussion. They dive into how AI is transforming the film industry, balancing efficiency with concerns over job security. The duo also explores the healthcare sector's urgent need for human expertise amidst rising AI reliance. Additionally, they tackle Mozilla's challenges against tech giants, and deliberate on the exciting collaboration between Jony Ive and OpenAI while considering AI regulation.

Dhruv Mehrotra, a Wired reporter, unveils his investigation into the alarming rise of medical emergencies in ICE detention centers. He discusses shocking findings from 911 calls, revealing the chaos and neglect that detainees face, including pregnancy complications and suicide attempts. Mehrotra sheds light on the systemic failures in healthcare delivery and explores the serious implications of overcrowding and heightened enforcement. The conversation also touches on issues of abuse, accountability, and the intersection of government surveillance with these pressing social challenges.

Delve into the fascinating journey of Sam Altman, from his humble beginnings to becoming a pivotal figure in AI innovation. Explore the drama surrounding his controversial firing and swift reinstatement at OpenAI, fueled by intense employee loyalty. Discover the personal experiences that shaped his leadership style, including his coming out story. The conversation tackles the ethical challenges within AI development and the growing skepticism about trust in tech leaders. It’s a riveting look at power, responsibility, and the future of artificial intelligence.

Vittoria Elliott, a senior writer at Wired, interviews Sahil Lavingia, the founder of Gumroad and a former staffer at Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency. Lavingia shares his chaotic experiences within the VA, exposing a lack of transparency and communication that hampered government efficiency. He discusses challenges faced during tech recruitment and reflects on misaligned expectations in government software initiatives. The conversation shifts to the cultural dynamics of Dogecoin and its implications amidst a turbulent political landscape.

Guest Kate Nibbs, a Senior Writer at Wired, delves into the high-stakes lawsuit filed by Disney and Universal against Midjourney for alleged copyright infringement. They discuss how this case could reshape intellectual property laws in the age of AI. The conversation highlights the complexities of copyright as it relates to generative AI, including the rise of low-quality AI-generated content. Nibbs also humorously discusses the legal ambiguities surrounding AI, emphasizing the need for critical fact-checking in today's digital landscape.

Meta's recent $14.3 billion investment in Scale AI sparks a deep dive into the quest for superintelligence. The hosts explore the differences between artificial general intelligence and superintelligence, revealing the tech race for top talent. They discuss Meta's strategic shift and leadership changes in the AI landscape. Ethically, they touch on the allure of high salaries in tech versus broader workforce realities. The conversation also meanders through quirky anecdotes about chatbots and generative AI, all while reflecting on the absurdity of the world.

Leah Feiger, Senior Politics Editor at Wired, dives into the chaos of misinformation during the Los Angeles protests against immigration policies. She unpacks how AI chatbots like Grok and ChatGPT are parroting false narratives, exacerbating public confusion. The discussion highlights the challenges of verifying information in a saturated digital landscape, stressing the need for heightened media literacy. Additionally, Leah critiques the economic dynamics of social media, questioning the value of virality and its impact on societal discourse.