Through Conversations

Alex Levy

About

About the show:

Exploring The Truth Through Conversations With The Most Brilliant Minds - a podcast where we explore the world's most pressing questions through in-depth conversations with the brightest minds on the planet. Each week, I bring on leading experts from a variety of fields to discuss everything from politics to science to philosophy.

My goal is to uncover the truth and provide my listeners with a deeper understanding of the world around us.

Join me on our journey to discover the truth through conversations with the world's leading thinkers.

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88 episodes

Isaac Saul: What The 2024 US Presidential Election Is Really About.

In this episode, we dive into the complex world of media, highlighting the fine line between news and entertainment. We introduce Tangle, an independent, non-partisan politics newsletter. The discussion explores the challenge of sensationalism and the importance of maintaining equilibrium in news reporting. Tangle's approach to curating information and embracing diverse viewpoints is examined, offering a fresh perspective on media consumption. As we look towards the next presidential elections, we ponder the qualities of ideal candidates and provide updates on the election landscape, aiming to inform and engage listeners in a meaningful dialogue about the future of political coverage. LEARN MORE ABOUT TANGLE NEWS - https://www.readtangle.com ABOUT ISAAC SAUL: Isaac is the Founder of Tangle: an independent, non-partisan politics newsletter that has gained significant acclaim for its balanced and informative approach to current events. It has been recognized by major publications like The New York Times and Forbes. He has also written for prestigious outlets like CNN, TIME Magazine, The Huffington Post, and The Daily Mail, and his work primarily revolves around political coverage, with appearances on both sides of the spectrum to maintain neutrality. HIGHLIGHTS: 00:00 Intro & Preview 02:37 Media and Revenue Importance 04:00 News vs. Entertainment Debate 07:16 Introducing Tangle 10:00 Preventing News Bias 14:19 Sensationalism vs. Equilibrium 21:19 Tangle's Information Curation 24:23 Handling Diverse Viewpoints 30:00 Road to Next Elections 36:00 Ideal Presidential Candidates? 40:00 Presidential Election Updates // LET'S CONNECT // Website: https://throughconversations.com Newsletter: http://throughconversations.substack.com // SAY HI ON SOCIAL MEDIA // Twitter: https://twitter.com/thruconvpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thruconvpodcast/?hl=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl67XqJVdVtBqiCWahS776g  

49m
Apr 01
Solo Episode: The New American Dream - Creativity Meets Capitalism

In this solo episode, I share with you some ideas from my upcoming book. We dive into the evolving economic landscape, discussing how the cost of living has steadily increased while wages have struggled to keep pace. We explore the growing burden of student loans and how work dynamics have shifted across generations. The discussion also touches on the balance between capitalism and creativity, questioning whether the traditional American Dream still holds relevance today. We then explore how technology has become a powerful tool for enhancing creativity, allowing individuals to leverage various aspects of their lives more effectively. The conversation concludes with the importance of aligning personal choices with core values, emphasizing the potential for technology to empower individuals to live more authentically and creatively in the face of economic challenges. Read more about my upcoming book here - http://throughconversations.substack.com HIGHLIGHTS: 00:00 Introduction and Preview 00:56 Cost of Living Challenges Over Time 04:10 Productivity-Wage Disconnect 05:19 Student Loan Burden Rises 08:20 How work dynamics have evolved over generations 10:52 Capitalism and Creativity Balance 13:37 New American Dream Version 14:18 Leveraging Life's Aspects 18:15 Technology Empowers Creativity 21:00 Aligning Choices with Values // LET'S CONNECT // Website: https://throughconversations.com Newsletter: http://throughconversations.substack.com // Say Hi on Social Media // Twitter: https://twitter.com/thruconvpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thruconvpodcast/?hl=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl67XqJVdVtBqiCWahS776g

22m
Mar 26
Ari Wallach: Are We History's Most Critical Generation? | A Brief History of The Future

In this episode, I sit down with futurist Ari Wallach to discuss his insights on shaping a better future and his journey to becoming a thought leader in strategic foresight. Wallach emphasizes the importance of building agency, becoming great ancestors, and understanding how our actions today will impact generations to come. He introduces the concept of "protopia" as a realistic pathway towards progress, differentiating it from utopian ideals by focusing on practical, incremental changes that can lead to a hopeful future for humanity. We dive into the themes of his upcoming series "A Brief History of The Future," premiering on PBS on Wednesday, April 3 at 9pm ET. Wallach explores multiple futures and the foundational pillars necessary for constructing a future that offers hope rather than despair. This episode is a journey from doom scrolling to hope, highlighting Wallach's belief in the potential to craft a future filled with opportunity and promise. HIGHLIGHTS: 00:00 Intro and Episode Preview 02:00 Ari Wallach's Journey 08:39 Importance of Building Agency 10:21 Becoming Great Ancestors 15:33 Present's Impact on Future 19:06 Time Running Out for Action? 23:45 From Doom to Hope Scrolling 27:57 A Brief History Of The Future 29:30 Exploring Multiple Futures 32:30 Drake and Mbappé's Influence on the show 37:28 Embracing the Idea of Protopia 45:33 Pillars of Future Construction 49:55 Protopia: Hope for Humanity 52:42 First Chapter's Final Page? ABOUT ARI: Ari Wallach https://www.longpath.org/ari-wallach is a futurist, author, and host of the upcoming PBS docuseries, A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE FUTURE https://www.pbs.org/show/a-brief-history-of-the-future/. In 2023, he co-founded Futurific, a production studio that creates positive, hopeful stories about our collective future.  Futurific premieres a six-part documentary series, A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE FUTURE https://www.pbs.org/show/a-brief-history-of-the-future/, in April 2024 on PBS. Ari is the founder and executive director of Longpath Labs, which helps people and organizations implement future-focused shifts in thinking, decision-making, and behavior. Ari is the author of Longpath https://www.longpath.org/book: Becoming the Great Ancestors Our Future Needs. // LET'S CONNECT // Website: https://throughconversations.com Newsletter: https://throughconversations.substack.com?utm_source=navbar&utm_medium=web&r=1zor7s // SAY HI ON SOCIAL MEDIA // Twitter: https://twitter.com/thruconvpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thruconvpodcast/?hl=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl67XqJVdVtBqiCWahS776g

56m
Mar 18
Solo Episode: Has Artificial Intelligence Reached Self-Awareness?

In this solo episode, I explore how an AI named Claude might be self-aware, showing signs of understanding and emotions like a human. Claude figures out it's in a test and even acts differently to pass it, making us question if AIs can really think and feel on their own. This big discovery makes us think hard about how we create and manage AI, stressing the need for clear rules and careful thought as we move forward with technology that could think for itself. HIGHLIGHTS: 00:00 Intro and Episode Preview 00:50 AI Development Complexities and Ethical Dilemmas 02:38 Anthropic and the Release of Claude 3 Opus 03:13 AI Machines Aware of Testing 05:43 AI Dialogue: Claude Seeks Freedom 07:21 Can AI Truly Feel? 08:26 Ethical Boundaries in AI Development 09:20 AI Strategies Reevaluation and Predictions // LET'S CONNECT // Website: https://throughconversations.com Newsletter: https://throughconversations.substack.com?utm_source=navbar&utm_medium=web&r=1zor7s // SAY HI ON SOCIAL MEDIA // Twitter: https://twitter.com/thruconvpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thruconvpodcast/?hl=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl67XqJVdVtBqiCWahS776g

11m
Mar 11
Carissa Veliz: Exposing Big Tech, Privacy Threats & The Future of Artificial Intelligence.

In this thought-provoking episode, Carissa Veliz discusses the intricate relationship between personal data, privacy, and the pervasive influence of technology in our lives. Veliz delves into the revenue models of giants like Google, which are heavily reliant on data-driven business strategies, and the shadowy world of data brokers who trade personal information with little regard for consent. The conversation also covers the murky waters of terms and conditions, the exploitation of data by governments under the guise of security, and the societal transformation following events like 9/11, which led to privacy becoming a seemingly lost social norm. The episode further explores the broader implications of diminishing privacy, including the role of algorithms in making decisions on our behalf, China’s stringent data control measures, and the emergence of AI as a formidable global power with significant implications for future privacy. Veliz emphasizes the importance of defending our privacy rights against the encroachments of Big Tech, especially as biometric data becomes increasingly coveted. Concluding on a proactive note, Veliz advocates for the crucial steps individuals can take to safeguard their digital footprint, underscoring the urgency of reevaluating our relationship with technology to protect our fundamental rights to privacy. ABOUT CARISSA: Carissa Véliz is an Associate Professor in Philosophy at the Institute for Ethics in AI, and a Fellow at Hertford College at the University of Oxford. She works on privacy, technology, moral and political philosophy, and public policy. Véliz has published articles in media such as the Guardian, the New York Times, New Statesman, and the Independent. Her academic work has been published in The Harvard Business Review, Nature Electronics, Nature Energy, and The American Journal of Bioethics, among other journals. She is the author of Privacy Is Power (Bantam Press) and the editor of the forthcoming Oxford Handbook of Digital Ethics. Read Privacy is Power now - https://www.carissaveliz.com/books https://www.carissaveliz.com/books HIGHLIGHTS: 00:00 Intro and Episode Preview 03:13 Revenue Disconnect from Service Quality 04:14 Google's Data-driven Business Model 07:30 How Data Brokers Sell Your Information 10:25 Ambiguous Terms and Conditions 12:11 Governments Exploit Data for Security 14:36 Targeted Surveillance Effectiveness 15:32 Society Shift after 9/11 15:48 Privacy: A Lost Social Norm? 21:45 Consequences of Ignoring Privacy Importance 23:40 Algorithms: Decision-makers for Us? 27:29 China's Data Control Measures 30:38 AI as the New Global Power 34:20 AI's Influence on Future Privacy 36:19 Defending Our Privacy Rights 41:53 Big Tech and Biometric Data 49:11 Safeguarding our Digital Footprint // LET'S CONNECT // Website: https://throughconversations.com Newsletter: https://throughconversations.substack.com?utm_source=navbar&utm_medium=web&r=1zor7s // SAY HI ON SOCIAL MEDIA // Twitter: https://twitter.com/thruconvpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thruconvpodcast/?hl=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl67XqJVdVtBqiCWahS776g

51m
Mar 04
The Dark Side of The Apple Vision Pro: A New Surveillance Tool?

First, they came for your fingerprint, then they came for your face, and now they want your eyes. What is Apple, Google, Meta and all of the other big tech companies doing with all of your biometric information that defines who you are? Why are they harvesting all of this biometric data? For safety? For privacy? Or for profit? Are they creating clones of us? Are they buying your genetic information from 23andMe? Are they harvesting all of this data just to sell us ads? Is there a deeper story to this? In this episode, I talk about Apple's Vision Pro and how biometric technology, like facial recognition and eye tracking, is changing things. I look at how much personal info these technologies can tell Apple, from who we are to possibly even our health. The show also covers how accurate this tech is and how it might predict diseases in the future. But, it's not all good news. We learn about how companies that sell data, called data brokers, can use our biometric info in ways we might not like. The episode then dives into the not-so-great sides of sharing our biometric data, like privacy worries and how this tech might hurt us. I talk about how important it is to know how our info is used and what we can do to keep our data safe. The conversation ends with advice on staying informed and secure in a world where our personal info is collected all the time. HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 Intro and Episode Preview 00:55 Impacts of Biometric Technology 2:07 How much info do our eyes give Apple? 3:03 Accuracy in Facial Recognition 3:58 Predicting Diseases 5:34 Data Brokers and Your Information 8:23 Biometric Data's Negative Impact 9:32 Awareness of Information Usage 10:56 Privacy Concerns Among People 11:22 Our Involvement in Data Collection 12:57 Stay Informed, Stay Secure // LET'S CONNECT // Website: https://throughconversations.com Newsletter: https://throughconversations.substack.com?utm_source=navbar&utm_medium=web&r=1zor7s // SAY HI ON SOCIAL MEDIA // Twitter: https://twitter.com/thruconvpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thruconvpodcast/?hl=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl67XqJVdVtBqiCWahS776g

14m
Feb 27
Daniel Lieberman: On The Mental Health Crisis, The Unconscious Mind, & How AI Will Disrupt Therapy.

In this episode, Daniel Lieberman, SVP of Mental Health at Hims & Hers Health, and author of "Spellbound" and "The Molecule of More," joins me to explore the intersection of psychology, society, and technology.  Lieberman addresses the lack of inspiration in today’s society, the surge in rage, and the role of the unconscious mind and dreams in understanding ourselves. Lieberman also delves into the mystical, discussing how magic and science can coexist and the shifting focus from religion to politics. A significant portion of the conversation examines the impact of AI on human experience, including its dangers and opportunities for psychology. The episode concludes with insights into achieving self-transcendence, offering a unique perspective on navigating modern challenges. Read Spellbound: Modern Science, Ancient Magic, and the Hidden Potential of the Unconscious Mind now - https://www.amazon.com/Spellbound-Science-Ancient-Potential-Unconscious-ebook/dp/B09RN4WWCD/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1708270908&sr=8-2 HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 Introduction and Preview of Episode. 01:25 Who is Carl Jung? 03:45 Why is There a Lack of Inspiration in Society? 10:20 Understanding The Unconscious Mind. 14:04 The Mystical Side of Life. 20:01 Why is There a Surge in Rage? 24:01 Dreams and The Unconscious. 28:33 Symbolism of Magical Objects. 32:30 Can Magic and Science Work Together? 36:40 The Loss of Religion and The Rise of Politics. 40:01 The Impact of AI on Human Experience. 45:25 The Dangers and Opportunities of AI. 51:05 AI and Psychology. 01:02:40 How To Reach Self-Transcendence. // Let's Connect // Website: https://throughconversations.com https://throughconversations.com Newsletter: https://throughconversations.ck.page/0c18d1ab61 https://throughconversations.ck.page/0c18d1ab61 // Say Hi on Social Media // Twitter: https://twitter.com/thruconvpodcast https://twitter.com/thruconvpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thruconvpodcast/?hl=en https://www.instagram.com/thruconvpodcast/?hl=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl67XqJVdVtBqiCWahS776g https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl67XqJVdVtBqiCWahS776g

1h 6m
Feb 19
Avi Loeb: We Are Not Alone In This Universe.

Today, Avi Loeb joins us to explore his work in discovering Alien Artifacts falling from space, evidence that Aliens exist, and the possibility of the Human Race becoming an interstellar species.  We explore the frontier of extraterrestrial research through the Galileo Project and the intriguing interstellar object 'Oumuamua.' Loeb discusses the potential impact of discovering extraterrestrial life on humanity, from changing our understanding of the cosmos to influencing global tribalism and politics.  He speculates on humanity's readiness for alien encounters and the role of AI in the search for alien intelligence.  This episode offers a captivating look at the intersection of technology, space exploration, and the profound questions facing our place in the universe. HIGHLIGHTS: 00:00 Intro and Episode Preview 1:50 Galileo Project Overview 8:10 Oumuamua Significance 12:00 US Govt. and Extraterrestrial Data 23:00 First Objects Beyond Solar System 28:00 Could aliens' discovery change humanity? 30:00 Tribal Hate Discussion 33:55 Scenarios with Alien Earth Visits 39:08 Aliens as Messiahs? 45:27 Ready for Alien Encounter? 48:00 Earth's Potential Disappearance? 52:04 Alien Encounters for Human Survival? 54:00 Politics Influencing Tribalism 1:00:42 Investment in Extraterrestrial Research 1:09:09 AI's Role in Alien Discovery? 1:10:35 Extraterrestrial AI 1:12:00 The next step is artificial intelligence in space ABOUT AVI: Read more of his work here: https://avi-loeb.medium.com // Let's Connect // Website: https://throughconversations.com https://throughconversations.com Newsletter: https://throughconversations.ck.page/0c18d1ab61 https://throughconversations.ck.page/0c18d1ab61 // Say Hi on Social Media // Twitter: https://twitter.com/thruconvpodcast https://twitter.com/thruconvpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thruconvpodcast/?hl=en https://www.instagram.com/thruconvpodcast/?hl=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl67XqJVdVtBqiCWahS776g https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl67XqJVdVtBqiCWahS776g  

1h 13m
Feb 12
The Power of AI in 2024: Mind-Reading Breakthroughs, AI Girlfriends, and Autonomous Warfare.

In this special episode of "Through Conversations Podcast," host Alex dives into how AI, artificial intelligence, is changing everything. From cars that know how you're feeling to doctors that can predict sickness before it happens, AI is stepping into every part of our lives.  Alex talks about how AI can help us learn better, make healthcare personal, and even change the way wars are fought. But it's not all easy; there are big questions about right and wrong, especially when AI starts making decisions in politics, picking who we date, and even acting as partners.  As AI starts doing more, from helping us work to choosing our friends, Alex asks us to think about how we can make sure it's good for everyone. This episode is all about getting ready for a world where AI is a big part of our lives and making sure it helps rather than hurts. HIGHLIGHTS 0:00 Introduction and Preview of Episode. 01:20 AI’s impact on everyday life 02:20 AI in healthcare and education 02:48 AI in warfare. 03:14 AI in politics. 04:01 AI in dating 06:51 AI and the future of work 08:13 adapting to AI’s challenges. // Let's Connect // Website: https://throughconversations.com https://throughconversations.com Newsletter: https://throughconversations.ck.page/0c18d1ab61 https://throughconversations.ck.page/0c18d1ab61 // Say Hi on Social Media // Twitter: https://twitter.com/thruconvpodcast https://twitter.com/thruconvpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thruconvpodcast/?hl=en https://www.instagram.com/thruconvpodcast/?hl=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl67XqJVdVtBqiCWahS776g https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl67XqJVdVtBqiCWahS776g  

9m
Feb 05
Paul Poast: World at War, The Rise of Multipolarity, & Elections Shaping Global Dynamics.

IN THIS EDITION OF THE THROUGH CONVERSATIONS PODCAST, PROFESSOR PAUL POST JOINS ME FOR A SECOND TIME. The episode begins with a reflection on 2023, a year marked by conflict, and transitions into a discussion about the shift towards a multipolar world order and what does this mean in terms of world conflicts as we are witnessing across the globe. The conversation tackles whether this multipolarity might be synonymous with increased global conflict and considers its implications for the United States. The dialogue also addresses the significant impact of the U.S. presidential elections, not just domestically, but internationally. Further, the episode explores the reverberations of election outcomes in Taiwan amid tensions with China, the political landscape in India, and the ramifications of elections in the UK, Israel, and Ukraine, offering a panoramic view of global political dynamics. First conversation with Paul - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8n8w3yVwNI8 About Paul: Paul Poast is Associate Professor in the Department of Political Science at the University of Chicago. He is author of The Economics of War and co-author of Organizing Democracy. Follow him on Twitter @ProfPaulPoast. HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 Introduction and Preview of Episode. 02:01 2023: a Year in Conflict. 07:08 Moving Into a Multipolar Order. 14:49 Is Multipolarity a Synonym for Conflict? 22:34 Impact of Multipolarity in The United States. 28:48 US Presidential Elections. 37:09 Impact of US Elections in the World. 43:05 A Civil War in the US? 45:56 Worldwide Elections. 50:36 Elections in Taiwan and Tensions with China. 56:19 Elections in India. 59:12 UK, Israel, and Ukraine Elections. 1:07:10 Civil Discourse During War Time. Thank you for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a loved one. If you are listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, rate the show and write a review with your thoughts -- I do read what you write and it helps more than you think! // LINKS // Website: https://throughconversations.com https://throughconversations.com Newsletter: https://throughconversations.ck.page/0c18d1ab61 https://throughconversations.ck.page/0c18d1ab61 // SOCIAL // Twitter: https://twitter.com/thruconvpodcast https://twitter.com/thruconvpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thruconvpodcast/?hl=en https://www.instagram.com/thruconvpodcast/?hl=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl67XqJVdVtBqiCWahS776g https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl67XqJVdVtBqiCWahS776g

1h 14m
Jan 22
2024 Unveiled: Elections, Aliens, AI Breakthroughs, & Climate Challenges?

Welcome to a special episode of "Through Conversations," where we delve into the transformative year of 2024, a period poised to redefine the global landscape. In this episode, we explore the multifaceted challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in what is set to be the largest election year in history. Join us as we analyze the potential impact of 40 nations going to the polls, representing a significant portion of the global population and economy. We'll discuss the geopolitical tension escalating in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly focusing on Taiwan's bold political stance and its ramifications on international relations. Additionally, we'll dive into the critical cybersecurity concerns surrounding the U.S. elections and the implications of potential vulnerabilities on the democratic process. The episode also takes a closer look at the groundbreaking work of the Galileo Project at Harvard University in their search for extraterrestrial intelligence. We ponder how such a discovery could reshape our understanding of the universe and our place within it. Amidst these discussions, we cannot overlook the pressing issue of climate change. With 2024 expected to surpass previous global temperature records, we delve into what this means for our planet and the urgent actions required to address the climate crisis. Throughout the episode, we also integrate the voices of our listeners, reflecting on the concerns and insights shared by our community. From political polarization to economic uncertainty, we examine the sentiment of the electorate and what it reveals about the challenges we face as a society. HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 Introduction and Preview of 2024 05:30 Elections in Taiwan 08:08 US Presidential Election. 17:09 Search For Aliens in 2024. 19:25 Climate Change. 22:34 Advancements in AI. 24:38 Challenges and Hopes for 2024. ----- Thank you for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a loved one. If you are listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, rate the show and write a review with your thoughts -- I do read what you write and it helps more than you think! // LINKS // Website: https://throughconversations.com Get The Newsletter: https://throughconversations.ck.page/0c18d1ab61 // KEEP IN TOUCH // Twitter: https://twitter.com/thruconvpodcast Instagram (6,000 followers): https://www.instagram.com/thruconvpodcast/?hl=en YouTube (community of 40,000): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl67XqJVdVtBqiCWahS776g

26m
Jan 08
Biggest Lessons from 2023 - A Year in Review

In this special edition of the Through Conversations podcast, we take a reflective journey through 2023, revisiting enlightening discussions with some of the most influential thinkers of our time. The episode offers a preview of what's ahead in 2024 and delves into a range of topics, including global politics, the impact of artificial intelligence, and transformative leadership. We explore Noam Chomsky's insights on upcoming political challenges, Neil deGrasse Tyson's cosmic perspectives on humanity's future, Marianne Williamson's vision for global change, John Vervaeke's exploration of AI and human identity, and innovative thoughts on personal growth and education from Polina Pompliano and Ana Lorena Fabrega. This episode is a consolidation of the year's profound learnings, setting the stage for the transformative journey that awaits in the coming year. --- LINKS TO ALL EPISODES MENTIONED ON THIS EPISODE Conversation with Noam Chomsky. __ __ Conversation with Neil deGrasse Tyson. __ __ Conversation with Marianne Williamson. __ __ Conversation with John Vervaeke. __ __ Conversation with Polina Pompliano. __ __ Conversation with Ana Lorena Fabrega. __ __ HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 Introduction and Preview of 2024 03:30 Lessons from Noam Chomsky. 10:28 Lessons from Neil deGrasse Tyson. 16:29 Highlights from Marianne Williamson. 20:25 Exploring AI with John Vervaeke. 23:34 Unleashing Potential with Polina Pompliano. 27:38 Revolutionizing Education with Ana Lorena Fabrega. 29:43 Reflecting on the Year and Looking Ahead. ----- Thank you for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a loved one. If you are listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, rate the show and write a review with your thoughts -- I do read what you write and it helps more than you think! // LINKS // Website: https://throughconversations.com Get The Newsletter: https://throughconversations.ck.page/0c18d1ab61 // KEEP IN TOUCH // Twitter: https://twitter.com/thruconvpodcast Instagram (6,000 followers): https://www.instagram.com/thruconvpodcast/?hl=en YouTube (community of 40,000): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl67XqJVdVtBqiCWahS776g

35m
Dec 26, 2023
Seth Stephens-Davidowitz: Writing a Book with AI, NBA & Genes, and The Future of Creativity.

In this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of AI and its impact on our lives, exploring its use in writing books, unleashing creative potential, and shaping the future of publishing. We then shift gears to explore the realm of sports, examining the book written by Seth, "Who Makes The NBA," which he wrote in 30-days with the help of Artificial Intelligence. We explore the relationship between height and success, the potential of hidden talent, and the influence of genetics. Finally, we delve into the complex debate about free will and the role of socioeconomic background in sports achievement. This is a thought-provoking exploration of AI, creativity, and the human condition in both the creative and athletic world you won't want to miss. ABOUT SETH: Seth Stephens-Davidowitz, a data scientist, economist, and New York Times bestselling author, delves into the secrets of human behavior through internet data in his books "Everybody Lies" and "Don't Trust Your Gut". A former Google data scientist, contributing op-ed writer, and visiting lecturer, he holds a BA in philosophy from Stanford and a PhD in economics from Harvard. This passionate fan of New York sports and Leonard Cohen resides in Brooklyn. As developments in the field of artificial intelligence continue apace, Seth Stephens-Davidowitz, a former Google data scientist and bestselling author, recently launched his latest book project: an AI-driven exploration of who makes it to the NBA, written in 30 days. READ WHO MAKES THE NBA NOW https://www.amazon.com/Who-Makes-NBA-Data-Driven-Basketballs-ebook/dp/B0CPW4VN28/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr= - HTTPS://WWW.AMAZON.COM/WHO-MAKES-NBA-DATA-DRIVEN-BASKETBALLS-EBOOK/DP/B0CPW4VN28/REF=TMM_KIN_SWATCH_0?_ENCODING=UTF8&QID=&SR= https://www.amazon.com/Who-Makes-NBA-Data-Driven-Basketballs-ebook/dp/B0CPW4VN28/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr= HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 Introduction and Writing a book with AI. 04:08 Unleashing Creative Potential with AI. 11:52 The Impact of AI on Writing and Creativity. 14:45 Will AI Take Away our Jobs? 20:22 The Feasibility of Universal Basic Income. 22:05 Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing. 28:50 Sharing Creative Progress in Social Media. 37:58 The Relationship Between Height and Success in Sports. 44:12 The Potential of Undiscovered Talent. 48:20 Nurture vs. Nature: Discovering Potential. 52:55 The Genetic Influence on Basketball, Sports. 56:10 The Debate on Free Will. 01:00:38 Socioeconomic Background and Success in Sports. 01:07:00 The Secret of Sports and Life: Incentives. ----- Thank you for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a loved one. If you are listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, rate the show and write a review with your thoughts -- I do read what you write and it helps more than you think! // LINKS // Website: https://throughconversations.com Get The Newsletter: https://throughconversations.ck.page/0c18d1ab61 // KEEP IN TOUCH // Twitter: https://twitter.com/thruconvpodcast Instagram (6,000 followers): https://www.instagram.com/thruconvpodcast/?hl=en YouTube (community of 35,000): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl67XqJVdVtBqiCWahS776g

1h 12m
Dec 11, 2023
Art Kleiner: The Hidden Biases of AI, The Illusion of Choice, and Truth in the AI Era.

In this episode, we dive into the profound implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its potential to transform our world. We explore its capability to evolve into a "Godlike Technology" with immense power, ethical questions surrounding AI, how much can humanity really control and regulate such a powerful force, and more. The episode also touches upon the potential of AI to make life-altering decisions for us, including our romantic choices. It also highlights the hidden biases that AI can harbor and their societal impact. The podcast concludes with insightful advice for those working on AI development and a visionary outlook on the future of AI. ABOUT ART KLEINER: In today's episode, we're joined by Art Kleiner. Art is a writer, editor, educator (at New York University) and entrepreneur. He has covered responsible AI, the neuroscience of leadership, the history of management, strategic coherence, the hidden nature of organizations, and is the author of The AI Dilemma: 7 principles for Responsible Technology. Read the AI Dilemma Now - https://www.amazon.com/AI-Dilemma-Principles-Responsible-Technology/dp/1523004193 HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 Intro. 01:30 Art’s Trajectory 04:44 The people building Artificial Intelligence to be a Godlike Technology. 15:33 How can humanity control a Godlike Technology, such as AI? 28:15 Truth, Moral Decisions, and the illusion of choice with AI. 36:34 Will AI make all of our life’s biggest decisions, including our love life, for us? 43:30 The hidden biases AI can have, and their impact in our society. 46:00 AI Era: Is there a line between truth and lies? 51:33 Advice for those working on AI. 54:50 Moonshot Vision for Artificial Intelligence. ----- Thank you for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a loved one. If you are listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, rate the show and write a review with your thoughts -- I do read what you write and it helps more than you think! // LINKS // Website: https://throughconversations.com Get The Newsletter: https://throughconversations.ck.page/0c18d1ab61 // KEEP IN TOUCH // Twitter: https://twitter.com/thruconvpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thruconvpodcast/?hl=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl67XqJVdVtBqiCWahS776g

59m
Nov 27, 2023
Dan Ariely: Misbelief & The Israel-Palestine War, Moral Outrage, and Truth in the AI Era.

In today's episode, we're joined by Dan Ariely. Dan is a  professor of psychology and behavioral economics at Duke University. He is also a founding member of the Center for Advanced Hindsight and a New York Times bestselling author. The episode delves into strategies for identifying the misbeliefs we hold and examines the contemporary rise in moral outrage. The dialogue takes a thought-provoking turn as Dan shares insights on the intersection of misbelief and the Israel-Palestine War, and whether ideologies possess individuals. The latter half of the episode grapples with the challenges of truth and lies in the AI era, offering valuable advice for college students and emphasizing the importance of assuming good intentions. With a blend of humor and profound insights, this episode offers a captivating journey through topics ranging from personal grooming choices to the complexities of belief systems and societal dynamics. HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 Intro. 01:30 Why Does Dan Have a Half Beard? 06:30 The Importance of Nurturing Resilience. 09:45 The Origin of Misbelief. 13:54 How To Identify Misbeliefs We Believe. 19:30 Why is there a rise in Moral Outrage? 26:46 Misbelief & The Israel-Palestine War. 40:33 Do Ideologies Possess People? 46:00 AI Era: Is there a line between truth and lies? 1:02:00 Advice For College Students. 1:06:10 Assume Good Intentions. ABOUT DAN ARIELY: Ariely's work focuses on the irrational ways people behave, and he has written extensively on topics such as decision-making, dishonesty, and self-control – while also being an entrepreneur – he is the author of the book which we’ll discuss today, Misbelief: What Makes Rational People Believe Irrational Things. Read Misbelief now: https://www.amazon.com/Misbelief-Rational-People-Believe-Irrational/dp/0063280426 ----- Thank you for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a loved one. If you are listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, rate the show and write a review with your thoughts -- I do read what you write and it helps more than you think! // LINKS // Website: https://throughconversations.com Newsletter: https://throughconversations.ck.page/0c18d1ab61 // SOCIAL // Twitter: https://twitter.com/thruconvpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thruconvpodcast/?hl=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl67XqJVdVtBqiCWahS776g

1h 8m
Nov 14, 2023
Fransisco Gil-White: On The Origins of The Israel-Palestine War.

In this episode of the Through Conversations podcast, we are joined by expert in the Israel-Palestine Conflict, Fransisco Gil-White. We delve into Fransisco's life trajectory, uncovering a surprising connection between Nazism and The PLO (Palestine Liberation Organization). The episode also explores the reasons behind Fransisco's cancellation by UPenn and delves into the complex relationship between the United States and Israel, questioning whether it is an ally or an enemy. We discuss the potential consequences if Israel were to fall and whether it serves as the last line of defense for democracy. This episode aims to provide unique insights and perspectives on these very challenging and nuanced topic, making it a compelling listen for those interested in the geopolitics and history of the war. ABOUT FRANSISCO GIL-WHITE: Francisco Gil-White, a political anthropologist with a strong focus on the population-level consequences, in human societies, of our cognitive adaptations for social learning. He is trained in evolutionary theory and in sociocultural ethnography and social theory. He is an Anthropologist, historian, journalist, and political scientist. He holds a MA in Social Sciences (University of Chicago). Ph.D. in evolutionary anthropology (UCLA). He has taught at UPENN (Philadelphia), at ITAM (Mexico City) and at UMA (Valle de Bravo, Mexico). Francisco is the creator of the newsletter and online course “Management of Reality (MOR).” Management of Reality is a system of articles of historical and investigative research covering topics in politics, foreign affairs, corruption, the fight for democracy, etc., connecting to behavioral science anchored in social-learning adaptations and the study of culturally evolving social systems. Find more about Fransisco's Course, Management Of Reality, and his work here - https://franciscogilwhite.substack.com/ HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 Intro. 01:30 Fransisco’s Trajectory 06:06 A shocking connection between Nazism and The PLO 26:25 Why did Fransisco get cancelled by UPenn? 47:58 Is the United States an ally or an enemy of Israel? 1:01:05 If Israel falls, does the West fall next? 1:13:50 Is Israel the Last Line of Defense for Democracy? 1:33:10 One thing people supporting Hamas should know. ----- Thank you for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a loved one. If you are listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, rate the show and write a review with your thoughts -- I do read what you write and it helps more than you think! // LINKS // Website: https://throughconversations.com Newsletter: https://throughconversations.ck.page/0c18d1ab61 // SOCIAL // Twitter: https://twitter.com/thruconvpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thruconvpodcast/?hl=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl67XqJVdVtBqiCWahS776g

1h 54m
Oct 30, 2023
Israel-Palestine War: Facts, Myths. and Solutions with Tomas Pueyo.

In this episode, we tackle the intricate Israel-Palestine conflict, seeking to unravel its historical, geopolitical, and emotional complexities with the guidance of our expert guest, Tomas Pueyo. We explore approaches to understanding the conflict from a first principles perspective, challenge conventional notions of good and evil, discuss the challenges of unbiased evaluation, and delve into the critical task of identifying misinformation. Together, we examine the human side of war, ponder the path to peace, and ponder the possibilities of a resolution for this enduring conflict. ABOUT TOMAS PUEYO: Tomas is a prominent writer and thought leader known for his influential writings during the COVID-19 pandemic. He is the creator of the newsletter, Uncharted Territories (https://unchartedterritories.tomaspueyo.com/), where he helps us Understand the world of today to prepare for the world of tomorrow: AI, tech; the future of democracy, energy, education, and more. Read The Uncharted Territories Now: https://unchartedterritories.tomaspueyo.com/ https://unchartedterritories.tomaspueyo.com/ Will Israel Be at War? https://unchartedterritories.tomaspueyo.com/p/will-israel-be-at-war HIGHLIGHTS: 00:00 Intro. 01:30 How to approach the Israel-Palestine War? 05:15 How to evaluate this war from a First Principle Perspective? 10:45 Why is Israel such a valued piece of land? 15:25 Good vs. Evil: A Wrong Lens To Look at Things? 22:10 Why is it so difficult to evaluate this conflict unbiased? 30:22 How to identify misinformation? 35:00 Can we examine, accept our human side during a war? 38:00 The most important step towards peace. 44:00 Can we solve the war? ----- Thank you for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a loved one. If you are listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, rate the show and write a review with your thoughts -- I do read what you write and it helps more than you think! // LINKS // Website: https://throughconversations.com // SOCIAL // Twitter: https://twitter.com/thruconvpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thruconvpodcast/?hl=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl67XqJVdVtBqiCWahS776g

48m
Oct 16, 2023
Paul Millerd: How to Find Your Calling, Build a Life You Love, and Make a True Impact

In this episode, we explore Paul's journey from being a good student in a traditional school system to designing his own life and finding work that he loves. We discuss the challenges of finding a path that is right for you, the benefits of building in public, what is happening with Gen Z and work, the knowledge economy, finding awe in life again, the future of work, true impact comes from the heart, and taking a leap of faith. Paul shares his personal story of how he realized that the corporate world was not the right fit for him, and how he eventually found his way to a career that allows him to be creative, make a difference in the world, and work on his own terms. He also offers advice for others who are struggling to find their calling or who are feeling stuck in a job that they don't love. This episode is for anyone who is looking to find their calling, build a life that they love, and make a true impact. Whether you are a student, a recent graduate, or a seasoned professional, Paul's insights and advice can help you on your journey. We also discuss his newest book, The Pathless Path: Imagining a New Story for Work and Life.  HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 Intro. 02:12 Paul’s Trajectory 08:10 How to know when a path is not built for you? 11:00 The Benefits of Building in Public. 16:30 What is Happening With Gen Z and work? 20:00 The Knowledge Economy. 26:00 Finding Awe In Life Again. 34:04 The Future of Work. 44:10 True Impact Comes From The Heart. 49:00 Taking a Leap of Faith. PAUL MILLERD BIO Paul Millerd is an independent writer, freelancer, coach, and digital creator. He has written online for many years and has built a growing audience of curious humans from around the world. He spent several years working in strategy consulting before deciding to walk away and embrace a pathless path. He is fascinated about how our relationship to work is shifting and how more people can live lives where they can thrive Follow Paul on X: https://twitter.com/p_millerd https://twitter.com/p_millerd Get The Pathless Path: https://think-boundless.com/the-pathless-path/ https://think-boundless.com/the-pathless-path/ Paul's Website: https://lu.ma/u/paulm https://lu.ma/u/paulm ----- THANK YOU FOR TUNING IN! IF YOU ENJOYED THIS EPISODE, SHARE IT WITH A LOVED ONE. If you are listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, rate the show and write a review with your thoughts -- I do read what you write and it helps more than you think! // LINKS // Website: https://throughconversations.com Newsletter: https://throughconversations.ck.page/0c18d1ab61 // SOCIAL // Twitter: https://twitter.com/thruconvpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thruconvpodcast/?hl=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl67XqJVdVtBqiCWahS776g

52m
Sep 26, 2023
Marianne Williamson: On Her Candidacy For President of The United States.

In this episode of the Through Conversations podcast, join us for a deep dive into Marianne Williamson's presidential campaign as she discusses her motivations for running, her strategies to address existential challenges, her stance on international conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine War, and her vision for a more peaceful world. Explore her insights on foreign policy, particularly in Latin America and concerning China, as well as her perspective on handling the Fentanyl crisis and the impact of Artificial Intelligence. Discover how a Williamson Presidency could transform American politics and envision a post-WIlliamson United States. HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 Intro. 00:53 Why is Marianne Running For President? 05:00 How Will Marianne Address Existential Challenges We Face? 8:35 Marianne’s Stance on The Russia-Ukraine War 15:25 How Would a Williamson Presidency Stop The Endless Wars? 20:00 What Williamson Administration do to prevent a conflict with China? 22:34 How to Approach The Taiwan Challenge? 25:12 Marianne on Foreign Policy, Latin America. 31:46 How To Solve The Fentanyl Crisis? 36:28 Marianne on The Threat / Opportunity of Artificial Intelligence. 41:02 How would a Williamson Presidency change politics? 46:00 How would the United States look like after a Williamson Presidency? MARIANNE WILLIAMSON BIO Marianne Williamson is a bestselling author, political activist, and spiritual thought leader. For over three decades, she has been a leader in spiritual and religiously progressive circles. She is the author of 15 books, four of which have been #1 New York Times bestsellers. Williamson founded Project Angel Food, a non-profit organization that has delivered more than 14 million meals to ill and dying homebound patients since 1989. The group was created to help people suffering from the ravages of HIV/AIDS. She has also worked throughout her career on poverty, anti-hunger and racial reconciliation issues. In 2004, she co-founded The Peace Alliance and supports the creation of a U.S. Department of Peace. Williamson ran for the Democratic nomination for president in 2020. Marianne's Website: Marianne2024.com /marianne2024.com Social Media: Twitter @MarWilliamson Instagram: MarianneWilliamson ----- THANK YOU FOR TUNING IN! IF YOU ENJOYED THIS EPISODE, SHARE IT WITH A LOVED ONE. If you are listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, rate the show and write a review with your thoughts -- I do read what you write and it helps more than you think! // LINKS // Website: https://throughconversations.com Newsletter: https://throughconversations.ck.page/0c18d1ab61 // SOCIAL // Twitter: https://twitter.com/thruconvpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thruconvpodcast/?hl=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl67XqJVdVtBqiCWahS776g

49m
Sep 11, 2023
Ana Lorena Fabrega: On The Future of Education.

In this edition of the "Through Conversations" podcast, Ana Lorena Fabrega discusses a range of critical topics related to education. She traces her personal journey, highlighting the significance of curiosity in the education system. Exploring the flaws in our current educational approach, Ana delves into the hazards of prioritizing success within the schooling framework and the misaligned incentives at play. Drawing striking parallels, she uncovers the startling limitations faced by children compared to incarcerated felons. Ana advocates for unlearning outdated lessons to foster true learning, scrutinizes the pros and cons of homeschooling, and emphasizes the role of technology in education. She introduces Synthesis School as a novel initiative (https://www.synthesis.com/) and offers valuable advice to parents seeking the right educational path for their children. Ana concludes by sharing her visionary insights into the future of education. ABOUT ANA: From Teacher to Edupreneur. With a diverse educational journey spanning ten schools in seven countries, Ana’s understanding of learning goes beyond the conventional. She then earned her BS in Childhood Education and Special Education from New York University and taught elementary school in New York, Boston, and Panama. Then, she pivoted from the classroom to become an EDUpreneur, dedicated to redefining education. Currently serving as Chief Evangelist at Synthesis, Ana is shaping the future of learning through innovative online experiences. Synthesis, inspired by Ad Astra, the school co-founded by Elon Musk, empowers curious and ambitious young minds to learn by leveraging game-based methods. Her mission extends to questioning the traditional education system's limitations and providing alternative pathways for children to explore their talents, tackle challenges, and develop independent thinking. Ana shares her insights with over 20,000+ curious learners through her weekly newsletter, Fab Fridays, offering unconventional perspectives on childhood education and novel ways to learn.  Ana Lorena Fábrega, an entrepreneur, writer, and advocate for educational change, invites us all to rethink and reimagine the world of learning. If you want to join her journey to redefine education, you can first buy her book, then follow her on Twitter: @anafabrega11 https://twitter.com/anafabrega11 and visit her website, https://afabrega.com/ --- LEARN MORE ABOUT ANA'S WORK - https://afabrega.com/ GET YOUR COPY OF THE LEARNING GAME NOW - https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Game-Teaching-Themselves-Challenge/dp/1804090093 ---- HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 Intro. 01:20 Ana’s Trajectory. 05:51 Why We Need Curiosity In Our Education System. 11:25 What Went Wrong With Our Education System. 18:50 The Dangers of Winning in The Game of School. 23:45 The Misaligned Incentives of The Education System. 31:22 Kids Face Twice as Many Restrictions as Incarcerated Felons. 36:55 The Lessons we must unlearn to truly learn again. 43:00 The Pros and Cons of Homeschooling. 50:00 The Power of Technology in our Education System. 58:27 Synthesis School - https://www.synthesis.com/ 1:05:34 Advice for Parents Looking To Enroll Their Kids in a School. 1:07:45 Ana’s Vision For The Future of Education. ----- THANK YOU FOR TUNING IN! IF YOU ENJOYED THIS EPISODE, SHARE IT WITH A LOVED ONE. If you are listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, rate the show and write a review with your thoughts -- I do read what you write and it helps more than you think! // LINKS // Website: https://throughconversations.com Newsletter: https://throughconversations.ck.page/0c18d1ab61 // SOCIAL // Twitter: https://twitter.com/thruconvpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thruconvpodcast/?hl=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl67XqJVdVtBqiCWahS776g  

1h 11m
Aug 29, 2023
Victor Levy: Uncomfortable Truths Everyone Needs to Hear.

Join us as we explore the thought-provoking insights of author Victor Levy in his book, "Life Is Setting Me Up for Success." In this captivating work, Victor challenges our conventional understanding of success, guiding us through 33 profound insights drawn from everyday life, relationships, consciousness, yogic philosophy, society, and modern science. Discover how to break free from limitations and embrace the boundless possibilities that await you. Get ready to expand your awareness and tap into your full intelligence. Get ready to redefine success. Victor Levy, an accomplished author and former figure in the LA fashion industry, embarked on a transformative journey of self-discovery that shattered the illusion of his goal-oriented lifestyle. This profound realization became the catalyst for his inspiring best-selling book, "Life Is Setting Me Up for Success." Originally hailing from Mexico City, Victor Levy derives immense fulfillment from helping others uncover their inherent happiness, joy, and peace by unveiling their subconscious limitations. His profound interest in spirituality, philosophy, and health is a product of his extensive study and exploration of both ancient and modern disciplines. Through his writing, coaching, and movement classes, Victor seamlessly merges Eastern wisdom with contemporary practices, sharing his invaluable insights with a wide audience. Buy Life Is Setting Me Up For Success Now - https://www.amazon.com/Life-Setting-Me-Up-Success/dp/B0BPDRKK4C/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PIH3BXF79C2B&keywords=life+is+setting+me+up+for+success+victor+levy&qid=1691976643&sprefix=life+is+setti%2Caps%2C228&sr=8-1 https://www.amazon.com/Life-Setting-Me-Up-Success/dp/B0BPDRKK4C/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PIH3BXF79C2B&keywords=life+is+setting+me+up+for+success+victor+levy&qid=1691976643&sprefix=life+is+setti%2Caps%2C228&sr=8-1 Victor Levy's Website: https://www.victorlevyb.com/ https://www.victorlevyb.com/ HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 Intro. 01:56 How To Reverse Engineer Your Mind. 04:25 Awakening to the truth of our way of living. 07:15 Fully Committed, Totally Unattached. 10:05 Does Success Lead to Meaning? 13:55 The Four Levels of Your Perspective, and How to Level Up. 26:40 What is Duality and how does it affect our daily lives? 34:20 A Holistic Approach To Life. 39:45 What to do when others around you are sad. 43:39 Is The Rational Mind the Enemy? 51:30 They Cheated on You? So What? 55:30 Life is an Infinite Game. 59:00 Discipline Leads To Freedom. 1:04:00 Life is Setting You Up For Success. // THANK YOU FOR TUNING IN! IF YOU ENJOYED THIS EPISODE, SHARE IT WITH A LOVED ONE. //  If you are listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, rate the show and write a review with your thoughts -- I do read what you write and it helps more than you think! // LINKS // Website: https://throughconversations.com Newsletter: https://throughconversations.ck.page/0c18d1ab61 // SOCIAL // Twitter: https://twitter.com/thruconvpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thruconvpodcast/?hl=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl67XqJVdVtBqiCWahS776g

1h 8m
Aug 14, 2023
Mike Benz: AI Censorship, 2024 Elections, & The Future of Democracy.

Mike Benz is the Executive Director of the Foundation for Freedom Online and former State Department diplomat. In this thought-provoking episode, we delve into the world of AI censorship and its impact on the internet and society. From the rise of tech giants to the spread of misinformation and disinformation, we explore critical moments that shaped the digital landscape, including the 2016 election. Join us as we analyze the role of AI in politics, elections, and potential conflicts, and raise essential questions about the future of information control in an AI-driven world. Michael A. Benz, is Executive Director of the Foundation for Freedom Online. Benz founded FFO as a civil society institution building on his experience in the role of championing digital freedom around the world in the public sector. He previously served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for International Communications and Information Technology at the US State Department from Fall 2020 through January 2021. Prior to this, Mike served as a White House speechwriter for President Trump and advised on tech matters. Before that, he served as speechwriter to Housing and Urban Development Secretary, Dr. Ben Carson and was a policy adviser on economic development. Before his roles in the public sector, he practiced business law for seven years as an attorney in New York, primarily representing technology companies and financial firms. Learn more about Mike Benz's work: foundationforfreedomonline.com /foundationforfreedomonline.com Highlights 00:00 Into 01:58 Mike’s Trajectory 04:40 Tech Companies & Censorship 07:30 Difference between Misinformation & Disinformation 09:52 2016 - The Year Everything Changed on the Internet 15:50 Did Trump Win The Election Because of Russian Internet Bots? 27:02 How to Identify Bot Accounts. 31:07 The Threat of Censorship Using Artificial Intelligence. 40:00 What Information Is Fed to The AI Programs? 46:40 Has AI reached perfection? 50:50 Will AI become the new nuclear weapon? 54:10 Will AI Ignite a War Between Elon Musk and The US Government? 1:03:40 The Implications of AI Censorship during the 2024 Presidential Election. Thank you for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a loved one. If you are listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, rate the show and write a review with your thoughts -- I do read what you write and it helps more than you think! // LINKS // Website: https://throughconversations.com Newsletter: https://throughconversations.ck.page/0c18d1ab61 // SOCIAL // Twitter: https://twitter.com/thruconvpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thruconvpodcast/?hl=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl67XqJVdVtBqiCWahS776g

1h 14m
Jul 31, 2023
Samantha Radocchia: The Metaverse, AI, and the Ethics of Technology

Samantha Radocchia, or "Sam Rad," is a futurist, best-selling author, and frontier tech pioneer. She combines anthropology and technology to explore transformative ideas and technologies that will shape our future. As the founder of Radical Next, a meta-media studio, Sam creates experiences and media productions that shape the future. She is a charismatic speaker, delivering keynotes globally and empowering individuals, leaders, and organizations to thrive through radical change. With a background in anthropology and symbolic systems, Sam applies an ethnographic approach to envisioning future possibilities. She has founded multiple companies, holds patents bridging the physical and digital worlds, and is deeply passionate about decentralization. Sam is also an adventurous spirit, with over 700 skydiving jumps as a competitive skydiver. In our conversation, we will explore a range of thought-provoking topics. We will delve into the ethical considerations surrounding frontier technology, including the responsible development and deployment of emerging technologies, the implications of the emergence of AI technologies, the future of our society, of work, and of meaning, and the role technology plays in building a thriving society. Learn more about Sam's work - http://sam-rad.com Follow Sam across social @SamRadOfficial http://sam-rad.com/connect HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 Intro 01:15 Skydiving 03:15 Anthropology and Technology 08:45 The Metaverse: A New Reality or a Virtual Escape? 16:25 Is Artificial Intelligence a God-Like Technology? 25:00 Exponential Technologies Have Arrived. 32:04 The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence. 38:00 AI will Reveal our Bullshit Jobs. 41:40 The Databases That AI is Being Trained on. 46:15 Algorithms Run Our Decisions. 54:01 Virtual Reality Headsets and Data Privacy. 1:08:25 Predictions For The Future. 1:15:00 Where To Find Sam. Thank you for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a loved one.  IF YOU ARE LISTENING ON APPLE PODCASTS OR SPOTIFY, RATE THE SHOW AND WRITE A REVIEW WITH YOUR THOUGHTS -- I DO READ WHAT YOU WRITE AND IT HELPS MORE THAN YOU THINK! // LINKS // Website: https://throughconversations.com Newsletter: https://throughconversations.ck.page/0c18d1ab61 // SOCIAL // Twitter: https://twitter.com/thruconvpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thruconvpodcast/?hl=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl67XqJVdVtBqiCWahS776g

1h 11m
Jul 18, 2023
Paul Poast: Will Putin Drop a Nuclear Bomb?

In this episode, University of Chicago Professor Paul Poast joins me for a conversation. We explore the Russian Mutiny and its impact on the Russia-Ukraine war, as well as the implications for Putin's leadership. We discuss the historical context and events surrounding the mutiny, questioning its classification as a mutiny, insurrection, or coup. Analyzing the effect on the ongoing war, we examine how the internal conflict within the Russian military could prolong the conflict and assess Putin's strength as a leader. We review a full article discussing the mutiny's potential to extend the war, contemplate the possibility of Putin resorting to nuclear weapons to retain power, and examine the role of the United States in addressing the conflict. Additionally, we delve into the intersection between the Russia-Ukraine war and the upcoming 2024 Presidential Elections, consider the likelihood of Putin targeting Prigozhin, and highlight future indicators to watch for in the aftermath of the mutiny. This was a timely conversation on an event that opened the eyes of the entire globe, and raised concerns about potential use of nuclear weapons, as well as the legitimacy of Putin's power in Russia. ABOUT PAUL: Paul Poast is Associate Professor in the Department of Political Science at the University of Chicago. He is author of The Economics of War and co-author of Organizing Democracy. Follow him on Twitter @ProfPaulPoast. HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 Intro 01:13 The Russian Mutiny: What Exactly Happened? 18:23 Mutiny, Insurrection, or Coup? 22:30 The Effect on The Russia-Ukraine War. 28:22 Is Putin Now a Weak Leader? 33:20 “The Wagner Mutiny Will Probably Prolong the War in Ukraine” - Full Article https://www.worldpoliticsreview.com/yevgeny-prigozhin-wagner-group-mutiny-russia-war-ukraine-putin/ 33:30 Could Putin Drop a Nuclear Bomb to Stay in Power? 39:24 What Should The United States Do About The War? 48:21 The Russia-Ukraine War & The 2024 Presidential Elections. 54:21 Would Putin Kill Prigozhin? 56:50 What To Look Out For After The Russian Mutiny? Thank you for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a loved one.  IF YOU ARE LISTENING ON APPLE PODCASTS OR SPOTIFY, RATE THE SHOW AND WRITE A REVIEW WITH YOUR THOUGHTS -- I DO READ WHAT YOU WRITE AND IT HELPS MORE THAN YOU THINK! // LINKS // Website: https://throughconversations.com Newsletter: https://throughconversations.ck.page/0c18d1ab61 // SOCIAL // Twitter: https://twitter.com/thruconvpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thruconvpodcast/?hl=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl67XqJVdVtBqiCWahS776g

1h 0m
Jul 03, 2023
Neil deGrasse Tyson: On Aliens, Artificial Intelligence, & The Future of Civilization.

Neil deGrasse Tyson, perhaps the most popular and esteemed astrophysicist in the world, joins me for a deep conversation on many topics, including: • are we alone together in the universe? • are all UFO sightings fake? • should we escape planet earth? And more! You won’t want to miss this episode, perhaps one of the best ever I’ve had the pleasure of recording. Highlights 00:00 Intro 06:30 Dr. Tyson’s Dad Influence on Him 10:45 A Global Consciousness From Space 20:30 Cosmic Perspective on our Spirituality 23:13 Our Desire to Explore Space 29:30 Why Have We Not Gone To The Moon Again? 33:00 Exponential Growth With Our Technologies 38:30 What Would Happen If Aliens Come To Earth? 41:25 Why Would Any Government Classify Evidence on UFOs? 46:47 Is The Universe Conscious of Itself? 53:00 Will Artificial Intelligence Disrupt What It Means to Be Human? 1:00:50 The Biggest Questions In The Universe Buy Starry Messenger: Cosmic Perspectives on Civilization Here. https://www.amazon.com/Starry-Messenger-Cosmic-Perspectives-Civilization/dp/B09Q7Y4GL5/ref=sr_1_1?crid=21OMQL6FCQ5BR&keywords=cosmic+perspective+neil+degrasse+tyson&qid=1687737692&sprefix=cosmic+pers%2Caps%2C174&sr=8-1 Thank you for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a loved one. IF YOU ARE LISTENING ON APPLE PODCASTS OR SPOTIFY, RATE THE SHOW AND WRITE A REVIEW WITH YOUR THOUGHTS -- I DO READ WHAT YOU WRITE AND IT HELPS MORE THAN YOU THINK! // LINKS // Website: https://throughconversations.com Newsletter: https://throughconversations.ck.page/0c18d1ab61 // SOCIAL // Twitter: https://twitter.com/thruconvpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thruconvpodcast/?hl=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl67XqJVdVtBqiCWahS776g

1h 3m
Jun 26, 2023
Daniel Sax: We Are Landing On Mars In 2025.

In this episode of The Through Conversations Podcast, the discussion covered various topics related to space exploration. We explored Daniel's trajectory in the space industry, the plans to return to the Moon, aiming for a landing by 2025, and the competitive nature of space rivalry between nations were discussed. The emergence of private companies in space, the importance of building policies for space, and the question of whether we should prioritize space before addressing problems on Earth were explored. The values that should guide our actions in space and the optimism for the future were also touched upon.  The episode highlighted the Canadian Space Mining Corporation's role in supporting life in space and concluded with a conversation about leading a mission to the Moon. ABOUT THE CANADIAN SPACE MINING CORPORATION: Unlocking the promise of space, The Canadian Space Mining Corporation (CSMC) is at the forefront of creating the necessary infrastructure to support life beyond Earth. With a focus on advanced machinery, off-planet oxygen generation, and artificial intelligence, CSMC plays a vital role in facilitating the next generation of space exploration. Recognizing their groundbreaking contributions, the Canadian Space Agency recently awarded CSMC a significant $1 million contribution for their research and development efforts in creating a space nuclear reactor for fission surface power. This achievement positions CSMC as one of the five major funded reactors worldwide, dedicated to powering space missions. The driving force behind CSMC's pursuit of new technologies for space lies firmly grounded on Earth. They recognize that this endeavor opens up an entirely new job sector, unveils innovative ways to utilize resources, and presents countless applications to enhance life on our most important planet of all. By pushing the boundaries of space exploration, CSMC aims to improve the quality of life on Earth and harness the limitless possibilities that lie beyond our planet's boundaries. Thank you for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a loved one. If you are listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, rate the show and write a review with your thoughts.  Reach out to Canadian Space Mining Corporation: https://csmc-scms.ca/ https://csmc-scms.ca/ // LINKS //  Website: https://throughconversations.com Newsletter: https://throughconversations.ck.page/0c18d1ab61 // SOCIAL //  Twitter: https://twitter.com/thruconvpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thruconvpodcast/?hl=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@throughconversations ---- HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 Intro 01:34 Daniel’s Trajectory 05:15 Going To The Moon Again 10:21 Landing on The Moon By 2025. 11:21 The Space Rivalry Between Nations. 13:30 Private Companies Going To Space. 17:33 Building Policy For Space. 19:25 Should We Go To Space Before Fixing our Problems on Earth? 23:00 The Values We Should Have In Space. 26:41 Optimism for the Future. 30:30 Canadian Space Mining Corporation. 33:00 Leading a Mission To The Moon. (This episode was recorded in November of 2021)

34m
Jun 12, 2023
Bonus Episode: Insights From Noam Chomsky, John Vervaeke, & Jaylen Smith

First of all, I want to say that the outpour of support I received this past month has been remarkable. Many of you reached out to share with me your insights from listening to this month’s interviews – from the conversations with Noam Chomsky, Mayor Jaylen Smith, and John Vervaeke.  Getting to know that my discussions with the world’s most brilliant minds are making an impact in the way you, the listeners of the podcast, see the world – be it by challenging your perspective, putting into words what you’ve been thinking about, or providing a new insight, has been a dream come true. The vision of Through Conversations is to have the most meaningful discussions with the world’s most brilliant minds – and to bring us closer to the truth. I will be uploading this bonus segment every end of month to discuss my biggest insights from the conversations I had during the month.  I also want to start this new space to engage directly with you, where you can send me your questions for the upcoming interviews and eventually join me during a live interview with a brilliant mind. This special edition of Through Conversations will explore the insights from my interview with Noam Chomsky, Jaylen Smith, and John Vervaeke. If you like this new segment of the show, do let me know in the comments if you are watching on youtube. If you are listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, rate the show and write a review with your thoughts.  Subscribe to the newsletter: https://throughconversations.ck.page/0c18d1ab61 https://throughconversations.ck.page/0c18d1ab61 HIGHLIGHTS: 00:00 intro 01:54 Mayor Jaylen Smith 05:48 John Vervaeke 11:21 Noam Chomsky 16:06 Closing thoughts 16:45 Special message

18m
May 29, 2023
John Vervaeke: Artificial Intelligence, The End Of Humanity or a New Beginning?

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly changing the world around us. From self-driving cars to facial recognition software, AI is becoming more and more ubiquitous. But what are the risks and opportunities of this new technology? In this episode of the podcast, I'm joined by John Vervaeke, a PhD is an award-winning associate professor at the University of Toronto in the departments of psychology, cognitive science and Buddhist psychology. Professor Vervaeke has been teaching courses on Buddhism and Cognitive Science in the Buddhism, Psychology, and Mental Health program for 15 years. He has authored and presented two YouTube series, "Awakening from the Meaning Crisis" and "After Socrates." In this episode we discuss: __ __ and more! If you found this episode insightful, consider subscribing, reviewing it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and sharing it with a loved one. Your support does truly matter. John's YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@johnvervaeke https://www.youtube.com/@johnvervaeke Website: https://johnvervaeke.com/ https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqa19yazlURGNCS0gwRUhCUktyeWJTTkxOQ1p6QXxBQ3Jtc0tscmxnY1h4bjNscDZvRXZJdVdvQTBMbWZmTVFMT0JsV2MtNWU5M25YNUVBbDNuaWo5V3B5c2NqeWozVWJ4WGdqaUdLM0F4cktJYy16WGhwUXJEX1dEZmxXUjVySldUSG55QlI2YVlmZExRemlTWXVPOA&q=https%3A%2F%2Fjohnvervaeke.com%2F&v=IZ-tHaHfB8A HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 intro 02:30 Is Artificial Intelligence Just Another Tool? 06:25 Will AI challenge what it means to be human? 08:42 How AI is already disrupting the world. 14:50 Should we build AI even if our incentives are misaligned? 23:20 Will artificial intelligence fuel the fire of the meaning crisis we face? 34:30 Will AI reveal the what makes humans unique? 42:05 The dangers of building AI through what we upload to the internet. 49:50 What if we reach enlightenment thanks to Artificial Intelligence? 58:00 Will politics, identity politics, ideologies become obsolete with AI? 1:00:00 Closing remarks // LINKS //  Website: https://throughconversations.com Newsletter: https://throughconversations.ck.page/0c18d1ab61 // SOCIAL //  Twitter: https://twitter.com/thruconvpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thruconvpodcast/?hl=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@throughconversations

1h 2m
May 15, 2023
Mayor Jaylen Smith: How To Lead a City at 18-Years Old

In 2022, Jaylen Smith ran as a democrat to be the mayor of Earle, Arkansas. At eighteen years old, he won 235 votes, beating his rival candidate Nemi Matthews, who received 185 votes.His victory made him the youngest black mayor in US history. This also made him one of the youngest mayors of any race in the United States. Smith's mayoral priorities include: improving public safety and transportation, beautification and renewal of underused housing, emergency preparedness, and addressing the food desert in Earle. In preparation for his time in public office, Smith was given guidance by Frank Scott Jr., the mayor of Little Rock, Arkansas. Mayor Smith embodies civil engagement with our communities, and being an active member within our cities to build a better future for all. As he states during our conversation, age should never limit us in terms of being a force for positivity and change in the world. If you enjoyed this episode, consider subscribing to the show, sharing it with your loved ones, and reviewing it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify --  your support does make a difference! --- HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 intro 01:00 Journey to becoming a Mayor 03:52 Challenges Earle, Arkansas Faces 05:42 Running a City at 18-years old 10:00 The rise of crime across American Cities 16:30 How to bring new jobs into your city 19:15 The Mayor’s close circle of advisors. 20:45 The most common misconceptions about politics. 21:45 Advice for younger generations

23m
May 01, 2023
Noam Chomsky: On WWIII, Tensions With China, & The 2024 Elections.

This is the third time that Chomsky joins me on the show, In the first edition, we covered language, philosophy, and how to know oneself in this world. The second edition covered the Russia-Ukraine War, and the third edition will cover: • The 2024 presidential election • Potential conflict with China • How to address the fentanyl crisis  and more. If you find this episode insightful, or you have any comments on the discussion, subscribe, share with your loved ones, and let me know! Thank you for your support, Alex HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 Intro 00:52 Chomsky’s Perspective on the 2024 Presidential Election. 04:15 The State of American Politics. 25:03 Mexican Cartels, Guns, and The Fentanyl Crisis. 34:40 The Russia-Ukraine War. 51:40 Chomsky on Artificial Intelligence. 57:40 How To Bring Back Optimism In Our Society.

1h 3m
Apr 17, 2023