Artificial intelligence can now do a lot of things. But if you’re worried about it taking your place as a communicator, Russ Altman says you need to question why you’re communicating in the first place.

Altman is a professor of bioengineering, a senior fellow at the Stanford Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence, and host of Stanford Engineering’s podcast, The Future of Everything. According to him, advancing technology isn’t a threat to human creativity and connection, but a tool we can use to raise our own standards for communication.

“If you're worried that a ChatGPT-type tool can replace you, you need to [ask]: Why am I communicating? What am I trying to say? Do I have a message?” he says. “If those things are true, it shouldn't be a problem. It should actually amplify and improve your message.”

In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Altman and host Matt Abrahams explore how effective communication can help us envision, articulate, and navigate towards our desired future, in our relationships, in our work, and in society.

Episode Reference Links:

• Stanford Profile: Russ B. Altman
• The Future of Everything Podcast | Stanford University School of Engineering 
• Ep.109 Simplify! How to Communicate Complex Ideas Simply and Effectively Website / YouTube 
• Ep. 3 When Knowing Too Much Can Hurt Your Communication: How to Make Complex Ideas Accessible Website / YouTube

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• Matt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn

Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Host Matt Abrahams introduces guest Russ Altman, professor of bioengineering at Stanford University and host of The Future of Everything podcast.

(00:01:00) The Future of Communication and AI

How AI can challenge and improve communication by bringing hidden biases to light.

(00:03:06) Practical Uses of AI in Communication

Using AI to improve clarity and focus in professional communications.

(00:04:08) Writing Effective Proposals and Grants

Crafting effective proposals by aligning with audience needs and clearly defining objectives.

(00:06:07) Simplifying Complex Information

Making complex information understandable without oversimplification.

(00:08:31) Preparation in Communication

How preparing for tough questions can improve clarity and engagement in presentations.

(00:10:13) The Art of Asking Questions

Crafting and following up with thoughtful questions to foster deeper conversations.

(00:13:13) Building Effective and Diverse Teams

Building effective teams through diversity, clear roles, and strong relationships.

(00:15:12) Balancing Rigor and Support 

The balance between challenging team members and maintaining a supportive environment.

(00:17:13) Lessons from ‘The Future of Everything’

The importance of passion in pursuing meaningful work and communicating complex ideas.

(00:18:09) The Final Three Questions

Russ shares what he’s excited about for the future, a communicator he admires, and the first three ingredients for successful communication.

(00:21:30) Conclusion