
Practical AI
Making artificial intelligence practical, productive & accessible to everyone. Practical AI is a show in which technology professionals, business people, students, enthusiasts, and expert guests engage in lively discussions about Artificial Intelligence and related topics (Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Neural Networks, GANs, MLOps, AIOps, LLMs & more).
The focus is on productive implementations and real-world scenarios that are accessible to everyone. If you want to keep up with the latest advances in AI, while keeping one foot in the real world, then this is the show for you!
Latest episodes

Jul 19, 2019 • 53min
AI code that facilitates good science
Joel Grus, author of 'Data Science from Scratch' and senior research engineer at the Allen Institute for AI, chats about his journey into AI and data science. He shares insights on the importance of coding best practices and how tools like Jupyter Notebooks can enhance collaboration. The conversation also delves into the exciting AI projects at AI2, such as Aristo and Mosaic, and the role of open-source initiatives like AllenNLP in advancing research. Plus, get tips for writing clean, maintainable code in machine learning!

Jul 3, 2019 • 51min
Celebrating episode 50 and the neural net!
The hosts celebrate a milestone while diving into the exciting world of neural networks. They share personal experiences and the evolution of AI, marking key milestones in neural network development. Various perspectives on AI are explored, emphasizing the practical tools like Jupyter Notebooks for data teams. The discussion makes complex concepts accessible, detailing how neural networks learn and adapt. Listeners are encouraged to engage with rich resources for further exploration of AI and machine learning. Join this lively conversation about the future of technology!

Jun 25, 2019 • 55min
Exposing the deception of DeepFakes
Delve into the unsettling world of deepfake technology and its dangerous implications for truth in media. Learn how these manipulated videos can influence public perception and pose risks in political contexts. The discussion highlights the challenges of detecting deepfakes and the need for legislative measures to combat misinformation. Gain insights on safeguarding against these threats while exploring the dual nature of AI technology in both positive and negative applications. It's a vital conversation about a modern menace that everyone should hear.

Jun 17, 2019 • 44min
Model inspection and interpretation at Seldon
Janis Klaise, a data scientist at Seldon, sheds light on the complexities of model interpretation in AI. He discusses the significance of the Alibi open-source project, designed to make sense of intricate models. Key topics include the integration of Alibi into Seldon’s platform for enhanced explainability, the use of innovative techniques like LIME, and the challenges of deploying machine learning models in real-world scenarios. Janis emphasizes the importance of collaboration between engineering and data science to improve AI's accessibility.

Jun 11, 2019 • 52min
GANs, RL, and transfer learning oh my!
Delve into the fascinating world of generative adversarial networks (GANs) and uncover how they create stunning artworks and music. Explore the power of deep reinforcement learning, where machines learn to navigate complex environments through rewards. Discover the magic of transfer learning, enabling AI models to adapt with minimal data in fields like computer vision. The discussion is enriched by ethical considerations and the human touch needed in AI, making this a captivating journey through the realms of creativity and technology.

Jun 4, 2019 • 46min
Visualizing and understanding RNNs
Andreas Madsen, a freelance ML/AI engineer and author at Distill.pub, dives into the captivating world of neural network visualization. He explains the significance of visualizing recurrent neural networks, including LSTMs and GRUs, to enhance understanding and trust in AI models. Andreas shares his transition from web development to AI, discussing freelancing challenges and the need for effective client communication. The conversation also highlights the importance of interactivity in data visualization, making complex concepts more accessible.

May 28, 2019 • 1h 2min
How to get plugged into the AI community
Explore the bustling world of AI conferences, where networking is key to unlocking opportunities. Discover how to choose the right events and engage actively, rather than just attending. Delve into the art of crafting memorable presentations, from selecting a topic to delivering it effectively. Learn tips for newcomers on building connections through volunteering and local meetups while navigating the diverse AI landscape. Whether a seasoned speaker or a curious learner, there are invaluable insights for everyone!

May 21, 2019 • 57min
AI adoption in the enterprise
This discussion features Ben Lorica, Chief Data Scientist for O’Reilly Media, known for his expertise in AI and data science. He dives into the current state of AI adoption in enterprises, examining companies' maturity levels and investment strategies. Lorica highlights the necessity for a supportive culture and successful integration of machine learning technologies. He also explores advancements in reinforcement learning, emphasizing the importance of ethical considerations and transparency in AI deployments.

May 14, 2019 • 1h 2min
When AI meets quantum mechanics
Dr. Shohini Ghose, a renowned quantum physics professor, and graduate student Marcus Edwards, expert in quantum computing, dive into the fascinating interplay between AI and quantum mechanics. They discuss how AI can accelerate quantum research and the revolutionary potential of quantum computing for enhancing machine learning. Insights include the future of quantum programming languages, the importance of quantum emulation, and the necessary bridge between classical and quantum computing. Their conversation reveals how these fields can transform technology as we know it.

May 7, 2019 • 59min
TensorFlow Dev Summit 2019
The discussion kicks off with thrilling announcements from the TensorFlow Dev Summit 2019, including the alpha release of TensorFlow 2.0. The integration of Keras simplifies machine learning development with eager execution. They also highlight the importance of accessible datasets and innovations like TensorFlow Federated and TFX for decentralized data processing. Rapid prototyping tools are showcased to encourage experimentation, while insights into remote work emphasize the need for effective communication and empathy in tech teams.