thinkfuture: technology, philosophy and the future - podcast cover

thinkfuture: technology, philosophy and the future

chris kalaboukisthinkfuture.com
Welcome to thinkfuture, where host Chris Kalaboukis explores the bold ideas shaping tomorrow. From AI-driven creativity and personal growth to leadership in remote work, this podcast delves into the intersection of innovation, technology, and human connection. With visionary guests and thought-provoking conversations, thinkfuture helps listeners unlock new possibilities, challenge the status quo, and create the future they want to see. Tune in for fresh insights, actionable strategies, and unexpected inspiration.

Episodes

853 Deep Fakes, Hollywood Strikes, and Owning Our Digital Presence

The episode delves into the recent Hollywood writers' strike, which stemmed from studios wanting to use AI-generated likenesses of actors without consent or compensation. The host emphasizes the ethical implications of profiting from someone's digital likeness without permission, especially in today's age where it's challenging to differentiate between real and deep fake content. The discussion then shifts to the Senate's "No Fakes Act", aiming to criminalize the cr...

Oct 16, 20237 min

852: Media's Evolution: From Layers to Simplicity - A Dive into Narrative Complexity

Breaking News In AI: ⁠https://aidaily.us⁠Show Site: ⁠https://thinkfuture.com⁠--Chris embarks on a journey highlighting the stark differences between the past and present narratives within media. Using the anime series "FLCL" as a touchstone, he illustrates how stories once rich with depth, intricacies, and multiple intertwining storylines have gradually been flattened to offer more straightforward, and often oversimplified narratives. Drawing parallels from "FLCL" and its sub...

Oct 13, 202312 min

851:AI Conversations & The Inevitable Influx of Ads

Breaking News In AI: ⁠https://aidaily.us⁠Show Site: ⁠https://thinkfuture.com⁠--In this episode, Chris discusses the refreshing nature of ad-free AI interactions, particularly with platforms like Chat GPT. He appreciates having conversations and obtaining information without being subjected to targeted advertising. Chris highlights the value of obtaining knowledge without the burden of being flagged and retargeted with ads, an experience common with traditional online searches. However, he warns ...

Oct 12, 20237 min

850:From Wall Street to Webpreneur: Shushant's Transition into Digital Content Creation

Breaking News In AI: ⁠https://aidaily.us⁠Show Site: ⁠https://thinkfuture.com⁠ -- In this podcast episode, former Goldman Sachs employee turned content creator, Shushant, delves into his transformative journey from the corporate world to establishing his own online ventures. He details his initial strides, from monetizing his audience through consultation and ghostwriting to building a robust Twitter following centered around no-code and AI content. The conversation with Chris touches upon the in...

Oct 11, 202334 min

849: Taxing the Future: Chicago's AI Tax and its Implications

Breaking News In AI: ⁠https://aidaily.us⁠ Show Site: ⁠https://thinkfuture.com⁠ -- The conversation centers around Chicago's decision to tax generative AI. Chris expresses his concerns about how taxing such a nascent and transformative technology might stifle innovation, especially for startups aiming to utilize AI to create products and services beneficial to society. Citing his libertarian perspective, he argues that while it may start with Chicago, other cities might follow suit, ultimatel...

Oct 10, 20236 min

848: AI and Homelessness: A Vision for Solving Humanity's Challenges

Breaking News In AI: ⁠https://aidaily.us⁠Show Site: ⁠https://thinkfuture.com⁠--The topic revolves around the powerful potential of AI in addressing societal issues, particularly homelessness. Drawing on the recent use of AI in Los Angeles County to detect early signs of homelessness, Chris emphasizes how AI, when fed with collective human knowledge and stripped of political biases, might offer transformative solutions. The episode touches on the merits of generative AI over human limitations, ar...

Oct 09, 20237 min

847: Digital Immortality: The Rise of AI-Generated Avatars

In this episode, the concept of using AI to construct a "digital twin" based on the vast content we've created on the internet is explored. Imagine having an electronic replica, an avatar, that captures your essence, your way of speaking, your thoughts, and more. While some may find the idea daunting, it's viewed as a form of immortality. Drawing from an emotional tale from Wired magazine where a man tried recreating his late father through such an avatar, the potentials and pi...

Oct 06, 20238 min

846: AI: A Beacon of Optimism in a Sea of Skepticism

Chris dives into the positive implications of Artificial Intelligence. Debunking mainstream media's penchant for amplifying the negative aspects of AI, he emphasizes its potential to enhance the human experience. Citing examples like improved hurricane and earthquake prediction models, as well as advancements in detecting extraterrestrial life, Chris challenges listeners to view AI as a transformative tool for good. In a world teetering between technological promise and peril, he encourages ...

Oct 05, 20235 min

845: From Digital Pioneering to Championing Data Privacy

In this episode, seasoned entrepreneur Wes delves deep into his extensive career in tech, starting with the inception of the world's first online encyclopedia in 1981. As he navigates through significant sales to media moguls and his relentless quest to instill accountability online, Wes unveils insights from his book, "Quiet Adjourances." The conversation also sheds light on the downfall of Nortel, attributed to intellectual property theft. A pressing dialogue on the value of pers...

Oct 04, 202346 min

844: Powering the Future: The AI-Energy Nexus and Nuclear Potential

In this episode of the THINKFUTURE podcast, Chris delves deep into the relationship between the energy needs of emerging technologies, particularly AI, and the potential solutions to address those needs. With the escalating energy consumption of AI models, the quest for sustainable power sources becomes ever-critical. Chris passionately discusses the role of nuclear energy in this equation, advocating for its reconsideration despite the negative press it has received over the years. The episode ...

Oct 03, 20237 min

843: AI-Crafted Cuisine: A Leap Too Far?

Chris navigates the fascinating and potentially treacherous waters of AI-generated food and beverages. With a nod to the recently unveiled AI-concocted "Year 3000 Coke," Chris dives into the age-old question – just because we can, does it mean we should? Drawing inspiration from the iconic show "Futurama" and the ever-humorous Bender, Chris introduces listeners to "Bender's Rule" – a tongue-in-cheek principle emphasizing that without taste buds, robots and AIs a...

Oct 02, 20237 min

842: Prompt Engineer: High Skill or High Hype?

Breaking News In AI: https://aidaily.us Show Site: https://thinkfuture.com -- As AI continues to pervade our daily lives, a new profession has emerged on the horizon: the Prompt Engineer. In this episode, Chris delves deep into the world of Prompt Engineering, seeking to demystify its essence. Is it a genuinely high-skilled job carving out a new niche in the tech industry, or merely another fleeting trend, inflated by hype? Drawing from firsthand experiences and industry insights, Chris unravels...

Sep 29, 202310 min

841: Ray Dalio, 3-Day Work Weeks and The Future of Work

Breaking News In AI: https://aidaily.us Show Site: https://thinkfuture.com -- In this reflective episode, Chris delves into the ever-changing landscape of work. Drawing parallels from the teachings of Ray Dalio, Chris muses on the increasing appeal of the 3-day work week and what it symbolizes for the modern worker. As the digital age progresses, AI systems have steadily assumed the burden of inhumane tasks — the repetitive, mundane, or highly complex operations once shouldered by humans. This t...

Sep 28, 20239 min

840: Navigating the AI Revolution: From Websites to AI-Driven Interactions

Show Site: https://thinkfuture.com Breaking News In AI: https://aidaily.us SmythOS: https://smythos.com --- In this enlightening episode, Chris and Alexander De Ridder deep-dive into their respective journeys, stemming from the early days of web technology to the present-day marvels of AI. Kicking off with a reflective look at their individual challenges and successes, they quickly pivot into an engaging discussion on the transformative power of machine learning in sectors like computer vision a...

Sep 27, 20231 hr 1 min

839: Uncharted Tomorrows: Why the Past Can't Foretell the Future

Breaking News In AI: https://aidaily.us Show Site: https://thinkfuture.com -- While history often rhymes, it doesn't always repeat. As we stand at the precipice of a rapidly changing world, driven by technological advancements and shifting societal norms, it's tempting to look to the past as a guide. However, the uniqueness of each moment suggests that our yesterdays might not always be the best predictors of our tomorrows. In this episode, we delve deep into the dynamics of change, the ...

Sep 26, 20239 min

838: From Clippy to Copilot: Microsoft's Redemption Quest

Breaking News In AI: https://aidaily.us Show Site: https://thinkfuture.com -- Microsoft's journey in the world of AI-assisted tools has been a roller-coaster of innovation and audience reception. Who could forget Clippy, the once-reviled paperclip assistant of the '90s? Now, with the advent of Copilot, Microsoft aims to revolutionize how developers work. But the question remains: will this be a game-changing solution or just another attempt that misses the mark? Dive with us into the evo...

Sep 25, 20239 min

837 EXTRA Echoes in the Algorithm: Strategies to Amplify Your Voice on Social Media

Navigating the vast landscape of social media can often feel like shouting into the void. But what does it truly take to be heard amidst the cacophony of voices? This episode delves deep into effective strategies for standing out, understanding platform algorithms, and genuinely connecting with your audience. Learn about crafting resonant messages, timing posts for maximum reach, leveraging collaborations, and more. Join us as we decode the intricacies of gaining visibility and making impactful ...

Sep 22, 202310 min

836 EXTRA Performing for Pixels: The AI Gatekeeping of Human Expression

In a world increasingly moderated by artificial intelligence, humans find themselves tailoring their messages to ensure they pass through AI filters. This episode delves into the subtle dance between human expression and the AI algorithms that gatekeep our digital platforms. What does it mean for authentic communication when we constantly have to 'perform' for the AI? And how does this influence public discourse, individual voices, and the shaping of our digital narratives? Join us as we...

Sep 21, 202310 min

835 Pivots and Persistence: Jas's Journey from Architecture to AI

Join us as young entrepreneur Jas chronicles his fascinating journey. Starting with selling Instagram theme pages at 14, Jas took an unconventional path, convincing his immigrant mother to support his architectural studies only to later pivot into ecommerce and social media. Despite facing setbacks, like a failed SEO agency, he harnessed the power of AI tools like Chat GPT to streamline his work and the strategic use of social media, notably Twitter and Instagram, to amplify his voice in the bus...

Sep 20, 202334 min

834 EXTRA The Delicate Balance of Distinction: Navigating the 'Just Right' in Positioning

In this episode, we delve into the intricate art of positioning. While being different can set you apart in a saturated market, leaning too far into that distinctiveness can alienate or confuse potential customers. Join us as we explore the historical examples and modern-day case studies that illuminate the golden mean of positioning. Learn how successful brands have struck the right balance, ensuring they're memorable without being misunderstood.

Sep 19, 20239 min

833 EXTRA From Conflict to Unity: Envisioning a Harmonious Human Future

Throughout history, humanity has often been mired in conflicts driven by ideological, cultural, or resource differences. Yet, as the world becomes more interconnected, there's a growing realization of our shared destiny. In this episode, we dive deep into the historical roots of human discord and discuss the potential pathways to a future where all humans can thrive. Join us as we envision a world celebrating diversity while working towards collective prosperity and well-being.

Sep 18, 20239 min

832 EXTRA Robot Chefs, AI Recipes, and The Illusion of Aspirational Success

https://thinkfuture.com | https://amzn.to/3KAfs35 | Join Chris on "ThinkFuture" as we take a skeptical dive into the buzzing world of AI-driven culinary tech. Sure, robot chefs and algorithmically crafted recipes are all the rage, but can machines truly understand the nuances of taste and smell like a human can? It's easy to be dazzled by the promise of tech-driven delicacies, but many argue it's merely a facade. In much the same way, so-called "success blueprints" an...

Aug 17, 202311 min

831 Democratizing Computer Vision with AI with Zach Rattner of Yembo

Zach Rattner, co-founder of YEMBO, discusses how his startup uses AI and computer vision technology to provide services to the property insurance and moving industries. He talks about the challenges of building computer vision algorithms that can accurately assess the contents of someone's home and the importance of real-world data. He shares thoughts on recent advances in generative AI like ChatGPT, and is optimistic about AI's potential to augment human creativity over the next 10 year...

Aug 16, 202337 min

830 EXTRA AI Pets & AI Humans: Help You Be a Better Human to Help Other Humans

https://thinkfuture.com | https://amzn.to/3KAfs35 | In this thought-provoking episode of "ThinkFuture", Chris unravels the intricacies of AI-enhanced companionship. We're on the brink of a transformative era where digital pets don't just play fetch but evolve emotionally with each interaction. AI humans serve more than just conversational purposes — they mirror and magnify our emotions and behaviors. Beyond the marvel of technology, there's a deeper exploration at hand: Can...

Aug 15, 202310 min

829 EXTRA Harnessing AI for Humanity: Steering Clear of Disinformation

In this riveting episode of thinkfuture, Chris delves into the heart of the double-edged sword that is artificial intelligence. While AI boasts unparalleled potential to uplift humanity, pushing the bounds of progress and innovation, it simultaneously presents a dark underbelly—its capacity to disseminate disinformation at scale. As technology races forward, how do we ensure AI becomes a force for enlightenment, not deception? Join us for a compelling exploration of how we can harness the power ...

Aug 10, 202310 min

828 From Physics to AI-Powered Media Buying: A Journey with Alex Makarski

In this enlightening episode of the thinkfuture podcast, Chris sits down with the multifaceted Alex Makarski. Starting as an engineer and physicist, Alex's career took an unexpected turn, leading him to establish his renowned agency, ClickMakers.io, and to become a Google Premium partner. Delve into the intricacies of modern media buying as the duo unpacks the seismic shifts in the industry, from the rise of multi-channel networks to the complex world of machine learning in advertising. How ...

Aug 09, 202329 min

827 EXTRA AI and the Job Landscape: What Comes Next?

Join us in the latest episode of the thinkfuture podcast, where we confront one of the most pressing concerns of our digital age: the impact of AI on employment. Undeniably, jobs primed for digitization are the first in line for automation. But is this a bleak premonition or a gateway to unprecedented opportunities? Dive into a nuanced conversation that bridges the past, present, and future of work. We'll debunk myths, unearth new perspectives, and spotlight the irreplaceable qualities only ...

Aug 08, 202312 min

826 EXTRA Would You Buy from an AI Pitchman?

Chris explores the concept of using AI as salespeople, examining both the potential benefits and drawbacks. Reflecting on his own experiences and insights, Chris delves into the limitations of AI in various professional domains and underscores the importance of human elements such as failure, experience, mentoring, and understanding market demands. The talk offers a thoughtful examination of how far AI can go in replicating human sales tactics and raises pertinent questions about the readiness o...

Aug 03, 202311 min

825 Masterminds and Mentoring - Navigating the Path of Entrepreneurship with Nick Arden

In Episode 825, Chris and Nick Arden delve into the critical world of mentorship, coaching, consulting, and counseling, and the role they play in entrepreneurship. Starting with an exploration of the limitations of AI tools, especially in creative writing, they then shift their focus to the human elements essential for personal and professional growth. They discuss the nuanced differences between mentors, coaches, consultants, and counselors, and the emergence of masterminds as a blend of all th...

Aug 02, 202346 min

824 EXTRA Love in the Time of AI - The Positives and Perils of an AI Romantic Partner

In a world where artificial intelligence permeates every aspect of our lives, what happens when AI enters the intimate sphere of romance? In Episode 824, we explore the intriguing concept of an AI romantic partner, unraveling both the enchanting possibilities and the complex ethical concerns. We discuss the appeal of AI companionship, the technological advancements that make virtual romance possible, and the potential emotional connections that can be forged. At the same time, we delve into the ...

Aug 01, 202310 min
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