Dr. Zohar Bronfman is the co-founder and CEO of Pecan AI, a company transforming predictive analytics with conversational AI to deliver rapid insights from custom data. Under his leadership, Pecan has raised approximately $120 million from investors, including Insight Partners and GV (Google Ventures). Dr. Bronfman holds two PhDs from Tel Aviv University in computational neuroscience and philosophy of science, has published 18 scientific papers, and has taught at the university level. A former member of the IDF’s elite 8200 intelligence unit, he combines technical expertise with a clear vision for both the present and future of AI.

In this conversation, we discuss:

• Dr. Zohar Bronfman’s journey from academia to becoming CEO of Pecan AI and the insights he gained along the way.
• The challenges companies face in leveraging machine learning and predictive analytics effectively in business contexts.
• Dr. Bronfman’s perspective on the differences between human intelligence and artificial neural networks, including the limitations of current AI models.
• Why Dr. Bronfman believes AI development should focus on enhancing human productivity rather than replicating human intelligence.
• The ethical implications of AI technology, including the role of regulation in preventing misuse of advanced predictive tools.
• The importance of curiosity and continuous learning, both in academic and business environments, to drive innovation in AI.

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On the social implications of AI

Dr. Seth Dobrin, CEO of Qantm AI, is a leading authority in the AI business world. He was IBM’s first-ever Global Chief AI Officer and is known for his human-centered approach to AI in corporate strategy, culture, and talent. With a PhD in Molecular and Cellular Biology from Arizona State University, Dr. Dobrin’s early work focused on developing algorithms for large-scale genetic data analysis, later transitioning to business solutions at companies like Monsanto and IBM. He now leads Qantm AI and is a key investor in responsible AI ventures.

In this conversation, we discuss:

• The role of responsible AI in corporate culture and how it impacts business strategies.
• Dr. Dobrin’s transition from molecular biology to AI and its applications in genetics and business.
• Insights into the future of AI regulations, including the challenges companies face in complying with emerging laws like the EU AI Act.
• The potential of AI to transform the workforce, creating both new job opportunities and eliminating existing ones.
• The ethical concerns surrounding AI, including attribution, bias, and technological colonialism.
• How conversational interfaces and AI-driven technologies will change the way we interact with the digital world in the next decade.

Resources

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On the Future of Organizations and the Science of Team Performance

Alex Tsakiris is the founder and host of the popular podcast Skeptiko, which has garnered millions of downloads over the years as it explores the intersection of science and spirituality. A published author, entrepreneur, and critical thinker, Alex has become a prominent voice in the debate surrounding the nature of consciousness and its connection to the physical world. In 1986, he founded MindPath Technologies, a pioneering company that developed AI expert systems for major corporations like Texas Instruments, DuPont, and Standard Oil, before it was acquired by Proxima Corporation in 1996.

In this conversation, we discuss:

• Alex Tsakiris’s journey from AI entrepreneur to host of the Skeptiko podcast, exploring the intersection of science and spirituality.
• The impact of AI on the concept of consciousness and how it challenges traditional scientific paradigms.
• The influence of Alan Turing’s work on AI consciousness and how it shapes today’s discussions on human-machine interactions.
• Why Alex questions AI dogma and how his background in expert systems influences his perspective.
• The role of transparency versus truth in AI development and how it shapes ethical considerations.
• Real-world AI applications that focus on enhancing human well-being and reducing workplace friction.

Resources

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On AI ethics and Data Science

Commissioner Keith Sonderling was confirmed by the U.S. Senate with bipartisan support as a Commissioner of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) in 2020. Prior to this role, he served as the Acting and Deputy Administrator of the Wage and Hour Division at the U.S. Department of Labor. Before joining the Department of Labor in 2017, Commissioner Sonderling practiced labor and employment law in Florida. He currently lectures on employment discrimination at George Washington University Law School. At the EEOC, he prioritizes ensuring that AI and workplace technologies align with civil rights laws, and he has published extensively on the benefits and risks associated with AI in the workplace.

In this conversation, we discuss:

• Commissioner Keith Sonderling’s perspective on how AI is transforming HR and the role of the EEOC in regulating AI technologies in the workplace.
• The potential benefits of AI in reducing bias during employment decisions and its alignment with civil rights laws.
• Challenges in ensuring AI algorithms are designed and used properly to prevent discrimination in hiring and other HR processes.
• The importance of transparency and consent when using AI in hiring and promotion processes, including the emerging state and federal regulations addressing these issues.
• The role of employers in mitigating risks associated with AI by implementing self-regulation and bias audits before deployment.
• The complexities of holding different parties accountable for biased AI decisions, and why employers remain legally responsible for employment outcomes.

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Eliminating bias in hiring: AI and the Future of Work with Denise Hemke, Chief Product Officer at Checkr

Keith Sonderling’s Paper “Filling the Void: Artificial Intelligence And Private Initiatives”

Dan Helfrich is the Chair and CEO of Deloitte Consulting, where he leads a team of over 80,000 professionals. He frequently shares his expertise on topics such as the evolving consulting landscape, the future of work, and inclusive leadership. Before assuming his current role, Dan led Deloitte’s Government & Public Services division. A proud Georgetown University alum, Dan holds both a Bachelor of Science and an MBA from the school, where he is also known as the play-by-play announcer for the Hoyas men’s soccer team. Outside of work, Dan enjoys cheering on his talented kids from the sidelines of the soccer field.

In this conversation, we discuss:

• Dan’s role as CEO of Deloitte Consulting and his work at the intersection of enterprise transformation, technology, and change.
• How Deloitte Consulting is helping organizations like the International Olympic Committee reimagine fan experiences and digital transformation.
• The importance of agility in leadership, highlighting examples like Marriott Vacations Worldwide’s successful response to disruptions and Summit Coffee’s creative pivot during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Insights from Deloitte’s global survey of 3,000 executives, revealing key trends in AI adoption, including the focus on productivity, cost efficiency, and the gap between intent and results.
• The challenges enterprises face with AI, including trust concerns, data privacy, and the uncertainty around ROI and long-term investment in AI technologies.
• Dan’s perspective on the future of AI, the regulatory landscape, and the critical role of leadership in navigating these disruptions.

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On transforming tech culture

Babak Hodjat, co-inventor of Siri, on AI and the Future of Work

Matt Beane is a writer, professor, and advocate for fostering a harmonious coexistence between humans and machines in the workplace. His influential TED Talk from 2018 has garnered over 1.8 million views, challenging conventional perspectives on AI’s role in the workforce by highlighting its divergence from traditional human skill acquisition. As a co-founder and financier of Humatics, an IoT startup connected to MIT, Matt frequently shares his insights in esteemed publications such as Wired, MIT’s Technology Review, TechCrunch, Forbes, and Robohub. His latest book, The Skill Code: How to Save Human Ability in an Age of Intelligent Machines, published by HarperCollins, has received accolades from notable figures like Adam Grant, Bob Sutton, Professor Ethan Mollick, and Reid Hoffman. Matt holds both a PhD and a master’s degree from MIT’s Sloan School of Management, along with a BA in philosophy from Bowdoin College. We are thrilled to welcome Matt to this episode of AI and the Future of Work.

 In this conversation, we discuss:

• The winding, non-linear career path that led to Matt’s research on technology, skill-building, and the future of work—from dishwasher to high school math teacher to MIT researcher.
• How the advent of new technologies, like smartphones and email, changed workplace dynamics and the way teams interact.
• The “Skill Code” and the three Cs of learning—Challenge, Complexity, and Connection—and how these elements are crucial for building reliable skills under pressure.
• The difference between knowledge and skill, and why skill development requires more than just education—it requires real-world application, collaboration, and engagement.
• Matt’s ethnographic approach to understanding work in diverse settings, from warehouses to operating rooms, and how he builds trust to gain insights into how people perform their jobs.
• The role of motivation, human relationships, and trust in skill-building, and how these factors drive us to improve and master new tasks.

Resources

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On using AI to prevent students from cheating

Bruce Feiler on AI and the Future of Work

Dave Smoley recently received a well-earned Lifetime Achievement Award (and signed Billy Idol guitar) from Workday co-founder Aneel Bhusri to recognize his 30 years of technology leadership.

This week, we discussed his journey from basement to boardroom as a leader at companies like Apple, AstraZeneca, GE, Honeywell, and Flex.

Dave shares unique insights about the impact of technology on the workplace and the evolving role of the CIO. Currently, he invests in and advises early-stage tech companies, leveraging his extensive expertise.

Dave holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from Clemson University and an MBA from the Darden School at the University of Virginia. Thanks to friends of the podcast (and PeopleReign investors) Thomas and Jason from Acadian Ventures for the introduction.

In this conversation, we discuss:

• Dave’s early fascination with computers and how it influenced his interest in computer science.
• His experience transitioning from programming at a bank to pursuing an MBA and the lessons learned along the way.
• The pivotal moment at GE that rekindled his passion for technology, leading him to combine tech with business roles.
• His insights on the cultural differences between GE and Apple, particularly in leadership styles and organizational structures.
• The role of teamwork and specialized skills in today’s tech-driven industries, especially in the context of cloud computing and AI.
• His current ventures as an investor and advisor, including his work with companies like PeopleReign.

Resources

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On using gen AI to get ahead in your career

Chris Caren, CEO of Turnitin since 2009, has played a pivotal role in transforming the company from a plagiarism prevention tool to a comprehensive education technology platform that promotes academic integrity, streamlines grading, and enhances educational outcomes. Under his leadership, Turnitin was acquired by Advanced Publications in 2019 for $1.75 billion. Prior to Turnitin, Chris was General Manager of Business Solutions at Microsoft. He holds an MBA with distinction from Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management and a BS in Engineering from Stanford and regularly contributes to CNBC and other media outlets.

In this conversation, we discuss:

• How a childhood introduction to computers and a background in science set the stage for a career in software.
• The journey from Microsoft to Turnitin and the decision to focus on meaningful industries like education.
• Insights into leadership, including the importance of team cultural fit and the power of delegation.
• Navigating the challenges of taking over from company founders while maintaining and respecting the company culture.
• How AI is transforming the educational landscape and Turnitin’s evolving role in addressing student misconduct with AI tools.
• The complex relationship between higher education and AI, balancing the need for students to learn writing and critical thinking with the demand for AI literacy in the workforce.

Resources

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On finding work you love

Vijay is the co-founder and CEO of Pindrop, a leader in voice security technology. With a background in engineering and research roles at Google, Siemens, IBM Research, and Intel, Vijay invented phone printing technology in 2010 and launched Pindrop in 2011. Under his leadership, Pindrop has raised over $200 million from investors, including JC2 Ventures, led by by Cisco’s John Chambers. Holding multiple patents in VoIP security and scalability, Vijay frequently speaks at major conferences such as RSA, Black Hat, and CCS. He earned his PhD in computer science from Georgia Tech.

In this conversation, we discuss:

1. The evolution of voice technology from landline telephony to modern voice systems.
2. The challenges of educating people about voice security and deepfake threats in the early 2010s.
3. How the rise of Alexa and other voice assistants transformed public perception of voice technology.
4. The rapid development of voice cloning tools and their implications for security.
5. The role of deepfakes in political interference, including high-profile cases President Biden.
6. How companies like Pindrop are using AI to detect and combat voice-related deepfake attacks in real-time.

Resources

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How AI is reinventing networking with Cisco’s Dr. JP Vasseur

William Osman is a prominent tech creator and inventive mayhem conjurer on YouTube, with over 3 million followers and nearly 200 videos that have collectively amassed over half a billion views.

As the mastermind behind Open Sauce, a major creator community event that drew over 20,000 attendees, 500 exhibitors, and 150 celebrity creators, William has significantly impacted the tech and creator landscape. His engaging content, known for its bold experiments and Francis Ford Coppola-like editing, includes fan favorites such as “How Many Parts Can You Take Off a Car?” and “Can a Rented Raccoon Simulate Fatherhood?” William is also the cohost of the Safety Third podcast, with over a hundred episodes. He holds a BS in Mechanical and Electrical Engineering from Cal State Northridge. We’re thrilled to have him on AI and the Future of Work to discuss his unique journey and insights.

Topics in this episode —

• Exploring Early YouTube: In this conversation, we discuss the evolution of YouTube and content creation from its early days, reflecting on how the tools and community have changed over the years.
• From Engineering to Entertainment: We delve into the guest’s journey from making simple, personal videos to integrating engineering with entertainment, and how this unique blend led to their success on YouTube.
• Challenges of Early Content Creation: The guest shares insights on the early challenges of making videos, including the limited tools available in 2008 and the lack of a robust creator community.
• The Role of Storytelling in Videos: We discuss the shift from focusing solely on technical aspects of video production to emphasizing storytelling, and how this transition impacted the guest’s content and audience engagement.
• The Impact of Open Sauce: The guest reflects on the vision behind Open Sauce, an event celebrating nerd culture and the maker community, and how it represents a sociological shift in connecting like-minded individuals.
• Creative Process Insights: We dive into the guest’s creative process, exploring how they generate ideas, choose which projects to pursue, and how they use engineering problems to drive compelling narratives in their videos.

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AI fun fact article

An episode you might like about extending life with AI

Pankaj Kedia is a trailblazer in laptop and wearable technology, having held leadership roles at Intel and Qualcomm in the early 2000s. Now an active investor, advisor, mentor, and speaker, Pankaj founded 2468 Ventures in 2021 and has since made angel investments in notable companies such as Grok, Anthropic, OpenAI, Figure, Humane, and Athena. Recently appointed as Chief AI Officer and board member at Biosmon, a Mexican med tech company, Pankaj brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the AI space. He holds engineering degrees from IIT Roorkee and the University of Michigan, along with an MBA from Wharton.

In this conversation, we discuss:

• The journey of transitioning from early AI work in the 1980s to becoming a key player in the wearable revolution.
• Leadership lessons learned from working with iconic leaders like Andy Grove at Intel and Irwin Jacobs at Qualcomm.
• The evolution of wearable technology and its role in augmenting human capabilities through AI.
• The ethical implications and potential risks associated with the integration of AI in wearable devices.
• Insights into the mindset and qualities of successful AI entrepreneurs and the criteria for investing in disruptive technologies.
• Predictions about the future of work, the rise of AGI, and the shift towards an age of abundance where work becomes a choice rather than a necessity.

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Babak Hodjat, co-inventor of Siri, on AI and the Future of Work

Josh Allan Dykstra is a polymath and TEDx speaker who has made significant contributions as a published author, musician, and CEO. As a sought-after coach on the future of work, Josh has collaborated with industry giants like Amazon, Microsoft, Apple, and Chanel. He founded The Work Revolution, an organization dedicated to creating energy-based workplaces where teams can thrive, believing that work life can be a source of positivity. Josh is also the author of “Igniting the Invisible Tribe,” and his boundless energy and innovative approach have inspired many to rethink their work and lives.

In this conversation, we discuss:

• Josh’s journey from a classically trained musician to becoming a leading voice in the future of work.
• We explore the pivotal moment that led Josh to shift his focus from music to transforming the workplace.
• Josh shares his vision for an energy-based work system that empowers employees rather than draining them.
• The concept of a work revolution and what it means to completely turn around traditional work systems.
• Josh’s belief that work can be a force for healing the world, even amid global challenges.
• The potential of AI in the workplace and how leaders can prepare for the future while prioritizing human well-being.

Resources

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Josh Bersin, HRTech pioneer, on the future of AI at work

Nick Mehta is the legendary CEO of Gainsight, a leading company in the customer success space, where he’s played a pivotal role for over 11 years, growing it into a powerhouse with over 20,000 customers and $100 million in ARR. Before Gainsight, Nick was a serial entrepreneur, having led LiveOffice until its acquisition by Symantec, and co-founded Chipshot in the ’90s. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry and a master’s in Computer Science from Harvard. Beyond his professional achievements, Nick is a multi-talented individual, known for his popular blog “Metaphysical Musings,” where he shares his love for Taylor Swift with nearly 27,000 subscribers. He’s also a rapper, an OG shoe dog, and a YouTube celebrity with over 50 parody videos to his name.

In this conversation, we discuss:

• The impact of AI on job security and how it will change the future of work, especially in the context of SaaS and customer success.
• The concept of “human-first AI” and how companies can leverage AI to remove grunt work while enhancing the human elements of customer interactions.
• The importance of building strong company culture, focusing on authenticity, transparency, and empathy as key drivers of employee engagement and satisfaction.
• The balance between the excitement and anxiety surrounding AI adoption, highlighting both the potential benefits and the challenges it poses to knowledge workers.
• Insights into how Gainsight has evolved over the years, with a particular emphasis on customer lifetime value and the importance of proactive customer success management.
• The role of leadership in maintaining company values, the importance of vulnerability and openness, and the unique ways Gainsight fosters a sense of community among its employees.

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AI fun fact article

An episode you might like about extending life with AI

Armen Berjikli is a serial entrepreneur and the recently appointed CTO at BetterUp, a human transformation platform founded in 2013 that employs over 3,000 coaches to help individuals achieve greater clarity, purpose, and passion through expert guidance. Before joining BetterUp, Armen co-founded Motive, which was later acquired by BetterUp, and Kenjoya, acquired by Ultimate Software. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and a master’s degree in Management Science and Engineering from Stanford University.

In this conversation, we discuss:

• The evolution of technology and its impact on the workplace over the past two decades.
• How Armen’s early research at Stanford with professors Clifford Nass and Byron Reeves influenced his career.
• The development of Experience Project and its role in connecting people through shared experiences and emotions.
• The journey of Armen’s companies, Kenjoya and Motive, and their contributions to understanding and improving employee experiences.
• Armen’s insights on integrating AI with human interaction to enhance emotional intelligence in technology.
• The unique approach BetterUp takes in combining coaching, technology, and research to drive human transformation and organizational success.

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An episode you might like about extending life with AI

Bernard Marr is a world-renowned futurist, influencer, and thought leader in the fields of business and technology. With a passion for leveraging technology for the good of humanity, Bernard is a bestselling author of over 20 books, writes a regular column for Forbes, and advises and coaches many of the world’s best-known organizations. Boasting a combined following of 4 million people across social media channels and newsletters, Bernard was ranked by LinkedIn as one of the top five business influencers globally. His latest books include “Future Skills,” “The Future Internet: Business Trends and Practice,” and “Generative AI in Practice.”

In this conversation, we discuss:

• Bernard’s journey into the AI and technology space, from his academic background to his consulting and writing career.
• The evolution of the AI landscape, from analytics and big data to modern AI applications and trends.
• How Bernard simplifies complex technical topics for a mainstream audience in his books and writings.
• Insights from Bernard’s latest book, “Generative AI in Practice,” and what readers can expect to learn from it.
• The role of AI in business decision-making and strategy, based on Bernard’s extensive consulting experience.
• The ethical considerations and societal impacts of AI advancements, and how they shape the future of work.

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An episode you might like about the future of audio engineering

Chris Dyer is a globally recognized company culture and future of work expert, delivering keynotes for over 15 years to audiences worldwide. As a CEO managing thousands, his companies consistently earn accolades as best places to work and have been recognized five times by Inc. Magazine as some of the fastest-growing companies. Chris is ranked as Inc. Magazine’s number one leadership speaker on culture, has published three best-selling books, and is named number five on the leadership power list. He is also a top 40 change management guru, a top 50 global thought leader, and the host of a top 50 leadership podcast. Beyond his professional achievements, Chris is an avid hiker, musician, and world traveler.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The concept of being an “accidental everything” and how curiosity and the willingness to say yes can lead to unexpected opportunities.
• We explore how Chris transitioned from speaking to writing, despite initial doubts and external skepticism.
• We delve into the power of a strong support system, including employees, mentors, and friends, in achieving success.
• We examine the varying perceptions employees have about AI in the workplace, from ignorance to apprehension to enthusiasm.
• We discuss the rapid pace of technological innovation and its impact on both employees and organizations.
• We highlight the importance of helping employees understand and adapt to technological advancements to enhance their value and mitigate job displacement risks.

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An episode you might like about the future of audio engineering

Peter Voss is the visionary founder and CEO of Aigo.ai, a pioneering company at the forefront of conversational AI and natural language processing. Over the past 15 years, Peter and his team have perfected a highly intelligent, hyper-personalized chatbot designed for enterprise customers. In 2009, Peter founded SmartAction.ai, which developed the first AI-based contact center technology. Beyond his entrepreneurial endeavors, Peter is an engineer, inventor, and AI pioneer who writes and presents on philosophical topics such as rational ethics, free will, and artificial minds. He is also deeply involved in futurism and radical life extension.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Peter Voss’s Journey: From an electronics engineer to creating a successful software company, and his deep dive into the nature of intelligence and AI.
• Defining AGI: What Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) means to Peter, and how we will recognize its achievement.
• Cognitive Skills Gap: The differences between current AI technologies like large language models (LLMs) and true cognitive skills required for AGI.
• Path to AGI: The limitations of deep learning and LLMs, and why cognitive AI is the necessary path towards achieving AGI.
• Human Interaction and Intelligence: The importance of real-time learning, metacognition, and minimal sensory input in developing AGI.
• Ethics and Responsibility in AI: The philosophical and practical considerations of developing AGI, including the ethical implications and societal benefits.

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An episode you might like about the future of corporate VC

Emil Winebrand, CEO and co-founder of insoundz, is a trailblazer in the AI and audio technology industry. With a master’s degree in engineering from Tel Aviv University, Emil’s career began deeply immersed in the tech world, taking a significant turn after a decade of service in the intelligence technology unit of the IDF (Israeli Defense Forces), where he developed a keen interest in AI for audio enhancement. Under Emil’s leadership, insoundz has emerged as a force in generative AI for audio technology, revolutionizing how we experience sound. His passion led to the development of the insoundz flagship product, Revive, which transforms any recording into studio-quality sound. Emil is also recognized for leading award-winning engineering teams across various domains, from electro-optics to algorithm development.

In this conversation, we discuss:

1. Emil’s early fascination with AI and neural networks, beginning at the age of 13.
2. His journey from studying electrical engineering to working in the IDF, where he encountered significant audio issues that sparked his passion for improving audio quality.
3. The creation and capabilities of InSounds’ product, Revive, which enhances audio by regenerating it with AI to achieve studio-quality sound.
4. The ethical considerations and challenges of using AI in audio engineering, including the potential for bias and the implementation of watermarking to prevent misuse.
5. The unique tech ecosystem in Tel Aviv and how the culture and education in Israel, including experiences in the IDF, contribute to the success of tech entrepreneurs.
6. Emil’s transition from CTO to CEO and the personal growth and challenges he faced in adapting to a leadership role focused on storytelling and vision rather than just technical details.

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An episode you might like about leveraging AI to create more time in your day