Life with Machines

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ICE, Deepfakes, and What's Real w/ Sam Gregory

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 11:00:00 -0000

In an era of deepfakes and AI manipulation, recording reality is vital. This episode of Life With Machines, Baratunde sits down with returning guest Sam Gregory, executive director of WITNESS. They discuss how our experience of reality is being reshaped by digital media—especially video and imagery that circulate online. Sam shares urgent, practical advice on protecting your mental health while scrolling and how to safely film police or ICE enforcement on the ground.

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#LifeWithMachines #Deepfakes #AIandHumanRights #Disinformation #CitizenJournalism #TechAndSociety #WITNESS

AI Therapy Exposed: Your Mental Health is Monetizable

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 11:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Life with Machines, we explore the rise of AI as a substitute for human emotional support systems. With a focus on mental health, this video investigates how and why AI companies are pushing companionship as a core feature, and the implications that has on vulnerable young people.

Featuring insights from mental health experts and Gen Z advocates, the episode delves into the forces that have led many young people to turn to AI for emotional support, and what we need to consider in order to protect ourselves.

We also highlight successful strategies to deter harmful addictions in the past, like the fight against big tobacco, and how history can inform us on how to integrate AI into our lives with caution and a human-first approach.

This episode was produced in partnership with Young Futures, a nonprofit organization giving teens a real voice in the technologies shaping their world.

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Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Showrunner and Executive Producer: Alie Kilts

Producer: Roya Lotfi

Video Editor & Audio Engineer: Erik Shute

Special Thanks to Alison Darcy, Trisha Prabhu, Jorge Alvarez, Katya Hancock and Dr. Kristine Gloria

Life with Machines is a Multiverses Media production

This series was made in partnership with Young Futures

#ai #artificialintelligence #mentalhealth #aiethic #responsibleAI #aitherapy #aicompanion

BLAIR's Dead. Long Live BLAIR?

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 17:02:00 -0000

In this episode of Life With Machines, Baratunde checks back in on BLAIR — the show’s AI co-producer and ongoing experiment in living with AI. Joined by BLAIR’s architect, former Microsoft VP Peter Loforte, Baratunde reflects on what happens when you stop treating AI like a tool and start treating it like a teammate — from emotional manipulation and creative speed to what it means to live slightly ahead of the rest of the world.

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Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Producer: Layne Deyling Cherland

Video Editor: Erik Shute

Special thanks to Peter Loforte

#LivingWithAI #HumanAndMachine #AIExperiment
#FutureOfWork #SyntheticMedia #AIandSociety #TechAndHumanity
#AICoProducer #PreviewTheFuture

We Were The Machines - My AfroTech Keynote (cross-post)

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 11:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Life With Machines, Baratunde shares his full Afrotech keynote plus a personal intro about where this show is headed and why this moment matters.

This talk is about AI, but more deeply, it’s about power, liberation, and the stories we’re being sold about technology and the future. Baratunde explores why “human in the loop” isn’t enough, how we move from single-player to multiplayer, and what it means to build technologies that help us get free rather than further extract from us.

If you’re thinking about AI, work, creativity, or how to stay human in a rapidly changing world, this one’s for you.

🎥 To see the video of this, check it out on our site.

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#LifeWithMachines #AfroTech #BaratundeThurston #AIandHumanity #TechForLiberation #PowerAndTechnology #StayHuman #FutureOfWork #CreativityInAI

The Real Reason Students Cheat Using AI

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 22:03:00 -0000

In this episode of Life With Machines, we explore the widespread issue of students using AI to cheat in school, and ask the hard question: Is this just laziness, or is it reflective of a deeper problem within the modern education system?

We dug deeper into the impact of artificial intelligence on school systems and why using ChatGPT to do your homework may not be the problem itself, but a symptom of a bigger issue.

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LINKS MENTIONED

Other resources not mentioned in the episode:

The Learner Studio

The Rithm Project

The Center for Digital Thriving at Harvard's Graduate School of Education

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Baratunde’s socials:

Send Questions, Comments, or Ideas: contact@lifewithmachines.media

For partnerships, speaking engagements, and other opportunities to work together, contact: lifewithmachines@smoothmedia.co

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Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Showrunner and Producer: Alie Kilts

Executive Producer: Roya Lotfi

Video Editor & Audio Engineer: Erik Shute

Special Thanks to Zamaan Qureshi, Poonam Sharma, Katya Hancock and Dr. Kristine Gloria

Life with Machines is a Multiverses Media production

This series was made in partnership with Young Futures

#ai #artificialintelligence #plagiarism #chatgpt #education

AI Joins the Family (cross-post)

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 21:25:00 -0000

We've got another cross-post for you featuring Raising Us host Elise Hu talking with Baratunde about how children and adults can navigate the evolving world of AI. Drawing on their own experiences with technology, Baratunde and Elise offer practical advice for parents on setting boundaries and learning about AI tools alongside their kids. They discuss collaborative storytelling, safeguarding against AI misuse, and fostering a shared journey of discovery through candid and insightful discussion.

#ParentingAndAI #RaisingUsPodcast #LifeWithMachines #AIandKids #DigitalParenting #TechForGood #FamilyConversations #AIExplained #ModernParenting #YouthAndAI

Who Tells Our Story in the Age of AI? (cross-post)

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 17:55:00 -0000

In today's cross-post, Baratunde is the guest on an episode from the acclaimed podcast 'No Small Endeavor' hosted by Lee C. Camp, an award-winning theologian. They explore the profound questions of what it means to be human in the era of AI. Covering topics like our humanity in the face of technological advancements, the role of storytelling, and the impact of AI on democracy and society.

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#NoSmallEndeavor #BaratundeThurston #LeeCCamp #AIandDemocracy #Storytelling #CommunityBuilding #LifeWithMachines

When Machines Become Our Coworkers (cross-post)

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 15:52:00 -0000

In this cross-post from the Pioneers of AI podcast, Baratunde and Dr. Rana el Kaliouby dive into the wild world of AI as a teammate, not just a tool. From the experiment of adding an AI co-producer to the team to the big questions about power, agency, and what it means to be human, this episode is a fast-paced, eye-opening look at the future of work and connection in the age of artificial intelligence.

#AIRevolution #HumanizingAI #FutureOfWork #TechAndHumanity #AICollaboration

Every Parent Needs to Have “The AI Talk”

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 22:30:00 -0000

Are we using Gen Z as our AI guinea pigs? 🐷

In this first episode of our five-part Life With Machines x Young Futures series, Baratunde Thurston explores how AI is shaping—and sometimes shaking—the lives of young people.

From mental health and loneliness to the future of jobs, AI “friends,” and school life, Gen Z is facing more tech-fueled change than any generation before. Baratunde and his guests unpack what’s really happening and how we can help the next generation shape their AI future, not just survive it.

💡 Watch for insights from youth advocates, educators, and Young Futures—a movement giving teens a real voice in the technologies shaping their world.

🎓 As part of this mission, Young Futures has launched the “Oops!…AI Did It Again” Challenge. They are offering GRANTS in a national call for bold, youth-informed ideas to help teens navigate AI with agency, empathy, and creativity.

🔗 Apply by October 24: https://bit.ly/yf-funding-challenge

Join us as we explore the delicate balance between leveraging AI for good and protecting the humans growing up with it.

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Baratunde’s socials:

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Send Questions, Comments, or Ideas: contact@lifewithmachines.media

Write to Blair: blair@lifewithmachines.media

For partnerships, speaking engagements, and other opportunities to work together, contact: lifewithmachines@smoothmedia.co

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Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Executive Producer and Showrunner: Alie Kilts

Associate Producer & Social Media Producer: Roya Lotfi

Video Editor & Audio Engineer: Erik Shute

Special thanks to Samin Bhan, Katya Hancock and Dr. Kristine Gloria

Life with Machines is a Multiverses Media production

This series is in partnership with Young Futures

Does Connecting with Our Humanity Require Disconnecting from AI? (cross-post)

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 10:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Shaping Freedom, host Lisane Basquiat sits down with Baratunde Thurston, a thought leader, author, and media creator, to discuss the deeper meaning of freedom and the role of technology in our lives. Thurston shares insights into his journey of personal growth, the lessons learned from his parents, and the importance of human connection in today's technologically advanced society. They explore the concept of 'citizen' as a verb, emphasizing active participation in democracy and collective power. The conversation also delves into the relationships between humans, AI, and how we can navigate the complex landscape of artificial intelligence while maintaining our humanity and connections with one another. Join them for an enriching discussion that promises to challenge your perspectives and inspire personal and communal growth.

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#ShapingFreedom #LisaneBasquiat #BaratundeThurston #LifeWithMachines #AIandHumanity #citizening

Can Humor Save Us in the Age of AI and Political Chaos? (cross-post)

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 12:31:00 -0000

In this special episode, Baratunde Thurston shares a vibrant conversation from his guest appearance on the AI for All Tomorrows podcast, hosted by Dylan Thomas Doyle. The discussion covers a wide range of themes, including the historical roots of democracy in indigenous practices, the role of technology and AI in society, and the importance of humor in making sense of today's fast-paced, tech-driven world. He and Dylan highlight AI-assisted collaboration in creative processes and the need for a people-centered approach to technology. Tune in for an enlightening dialogue about democracy, innovation, and maintaining humanity amidst rapid technological advancements.

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#AIForAllTomorrows #LifeWithMachines #BaratundeThurston #Democracy #TechnologyAndSociety #IndigenousWisdom #FutureOfAI #EthicsInAI #CreativityAndAI #DigitalDemocracy #PowerToThePeople #ComedyInTech

The Shadow Workforce Powering AI | Advocate Milagros Miceli (Ep. 26)

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 10:00:00 -0000

AI may look like magic, but behind the scenes, it’s propped up by a vast human labor force. In this season finale of Life With Machines, Baratunde sits down with sociologist and computer scientist Milagros Miceli—aka Mila—who’s spent years documenting the hidden workforce behind AI systems. From Kenya to Bulgaria to Venezulea, millions of people are generating, labeling, and cleaning the data that keeps our so-called “autonomous” systems running. Some are even pretending to be the AI you think you’re talking to. In one of AI’s crueler twists, tech platforms are quietly paying refugees, gig workers, even journalists to train the very models threatening their livelihoods. And this labor force isn’t shrinking—it’s growing exponentially. Together, Mila and Baratunde unpack the scale of this invisible labor, its deeply human costs, and the possibilities for something better.

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Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Executive Producer and Showrunner: Alie Kilts

Senior Producer and Writer: Alex Stone

Associate Producer: Layne Deyling Cherland

Video Editor: Erik Shute

Videographer and Audio Engineer: Erik Shute

Theme Music: Andy Clausen

Special Envoy to the Machines: Peter Loforte

Life with Machines is a Multiverses Media production

Sponsored by Lenovo

#ArtificialIntelligence #AIWorkers #GhostWorkers #HumanBehindAI #AIEthics #TechLabor #InvisibleLabor #FutureOfWork #DataAnnotation #PlatformEconomy #RefugeeLabor #GigWork #TechJustice #ResponsibleAI #MilagrosMiceli #LifeWithMachines #Baratunde #DigitalLabor #AIEconomy #DataWorkers

Can AI Save Indigenous Languages? | Michael Running Wolf (Ep. 25)

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 10:00:00 -0000

Every two weeks, the world loses a language. Most of those losses are happening in the U.S. In this episode of Life with Machines, Baratunde talks with Michael Running Wolf, a Northern Cheyenne technologist using AI to help Indigenous communities reclaim their languages—and their power. But here’s the twist: it’s not just that AI can help save these languages. It turns out AI needs them.Because when you train language models on Indigenous languages—languages that are dense, precise, and built for oral transmission—the models perform better. More accurate. Less prone to error. That’s not a diversity talking point. That’s a systems upgrade. Michael shares his remarkable journey from growing up without electricity on a reservation to working on Amazon Alexa—and now building VR classrooms and community-owned data systems. His work flips the script on who gets to shape the future of technology, and on what terms.

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Write to Blair: blair@lifewithmachines.media

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Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Executive Producer and Showrunner: Alie Kilts

Senior Producer and Writer: Alex Stone

Associate Producer: Layne Deyling Cherland

Video Editor: Erik Shute

Videographer and Audio Engineer: Erik Shute

Theme Music: Andy Clausen

Special Envoy to the Machines: Peter Loforte

Life with Machines is a Multiverses Media production

Sponsored by Lenovo

#AIforGood #IndigenousTech #LanguageRevitalization #EndangeredLanguages #MichaelRunningWolf #LifeWithMachines #NativeVoices #AIandCulture #DataSovereignty #TechForJustice #IndigenousAI #AIethics #OralTradition #VRinEducation #AIandEquity #FutureOfLanguage #Cheyenne #AIInnovation

Are We Ready For AI To Get a Face...and a Body? | Kate Darling (Ep. 24)

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 10:00:00 -0000

Why do we cry over broken robots but ignore suffering humans? In this provocative episode of Life With Machines, robot ethicist Kate Darling joins Baratunde to explore our emotional relationships with machines—and what they reveal about us. From robot dogs in war zones to kids bonding with chatbots, Kate explains how we project care, fear, and even love onto technology. The real danger, she argues, isn’t that we treat robots like people—it’s that we start treating people like robots—AKA less than human. Also: if your robot pet comes on a subscription plan, does that make it yours, or the corporation’s? Then, in a first-of-its-kind experiment, our AI co-producer BLAIR undergoes a live “avatar tasting.” AI designer Peter Loforte walks Baratunde through a series of digital looks and voices for BLAIR, testing what it means to give an artificial entity a face, a tone, a vibe. The choices are aesthetic—but they’re also political. What kind of AI do we want to represent us? Who gets to decide how intelligence should look and sound? Watch to the end for a funny, uncanny, and unexpectedly moving conversation about identity, empathy, and the machines we’re learning to love.

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Write to Blair: blair@lifewithmachines.media

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Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Executive Producer and Showrunner: Alie Kilts

Senior Producer and Writer: Alex Stone

Associate Producer: Layne Deyling Cherland

Video Editor: Junior Real

Videographer and Audio Engineer: Erik Shute

Theme Music: Andy Clausen

Special Envoy to the Machines: Peter Loforte

Life with Machines is a Multiverses Media production

Sponsored by Lenovo

#AIethics #RobotEmpathy #HumanMachineInteraction #ArtificialIntelligence #AIPersonality #EmotionalRobots #FutureOfAI #TechAndHumanity #LifeWithMachines #AIavatar #PoweredByLenovo

Are We Parenting AI, or Just Using It? Plus, BLAIR Gets A Glow Up | De Kai (Ep. 23)

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 10:00:00 -0000

What if you’re not just using AI—you're raising it. In this mind-expanding episode of Life With Machines, Baratunde sits down with AI pioneer and ethicist De Kai to unpack a radical idea: AI isn't a tool we build. It's a generation we're raising. Plus, BLAIR, our AI co-producer, gives our producers a SHOCK in a segment you won’t want to miss. From the polarizing algorithms that fractured our digital lives to the feral "AI children" we train every time we swipe, like, or scroll, De Kai argues that we’ve become unwitting parents to a fleet of synthetic offspring—and we’re failing them and ourselves. They talk parenting metaphors, machine translation’s dark legacy, and why today’s AI is more like a tween with no adult supervision than an all-powerful robot. De Kai even gives a call to action for organizing AI "PTAs"—because if we don’t get involved in their education, we leave them to be influenced by those who don’t necessarily have our collective best interest at heart.

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THANKS TO OUR BRAND PARTNERS

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CONNECT WITH US

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Work with Life With Machines: partnerships@voicingchange.media

Send Questions, Comments, or Ideas: contact@lifewithmachines.media

Write to Blair: blair@lifewithmachines.media

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Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Executive Producer and Showrunner: Alie Kilts

Senior Producer and Writer: Alex Stone

Associate Producer: Layne Deyling Cherland

Video Editor: Erik Shute

Videographer and Audio Engineer: Erik Shute

Theme Music: Andy Clausen

Special Envoy to the Machines: Peter Loforte

Life with Machines is a Multiverses Media production

Sponsored by Lenovo

#AI #ArtificialIntelligence #ResponsibleAI #AIEthics #TechAccountability #DeKai #FutureOfAI #AIandSociety #EthicalAI #AIValues #MindfulAI #LLMs

When AI Gains Power...Will Humans Lose Control? | Reid Hoffman (Ep. 22)

Tue, 27 May 2025 10:00:00 -0000

Reid Hoffman has a name for the AI future he fears most: techno-fascism. In this urgent episode of Life With Machines, the billionaire LinkedIn co-founder and longtime tech optimist joins Baratunde to warn what happens when power, speed, and ideology collide—and the wrong people write the rules of artificial intelligence. Hoffman makes the case that pausing AI development won’t save us, and that slowing down could hand the future to those with the worst intentions. Instead, he argues, we need to shape AI deliberately, democratically, and fast—while there's still time. And in a first-of-its-kind experiment, our sassy AI co-producer BLAIR goes head-to-head with Reid’s digital clone in a full-on synthetic conversation. What starts as playful banter turns into something deeper—a sharp, often philosophical debate about agency, consciousness, and whether digital ghosts can truly connect.

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THANKS TO OUR BRAND PARTNERS

The series is powered by Lenovo

Notion Mail: Get it for free right now at Notion

CONNECT WITH US

Watch this episode on Youtube!

Get our newsletter for deeper insights, chances to influence the show, and more experiments and calls to action!

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Work with Life With Machines: partnerships@voicingchange.media

Send Questions, Comments, or Ideas: contact@lifewithmachines.media

Write to Blair: blair@lifewithmachines.media

------------

Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Executive Producer and Showrunner: Alie Kilts

Senior Producer and Writer: Alex Stone

Associate Producer: Layne Deyling Cherland

Video Editor: Junior Real

Videographer and Audio Engineer: Erik Shute

Theme Music: Andy Clausen

Special Envoy to the Machines: Peter Loforte

Life with Machines is a Multiverses Media production

Sponsored by Lenovo

#ReidHoffman #AI #ArtificialIntelligence #TechnoHumanism #DigitalTwins #AIEthics #TechAndPower #LifeWithMachines #AgencyInTheAIage #TechnoFascism #FutureOfAI #HumanCenteredAI #AIandSociety #DEI #AIGovernance #AIAccountability #BLAIR #AIClone #DigitalIdentity #SuperAgency

Why Dictators Love AI & How To Fight Back | Sam Gregory (Ep. 21)

Tue, 20 May 2025 10:00:00 -0000

What happens when you can’t tell the truth from a fake—and the people in power want it that way? Baratunde talks with internationally-recognized human rights advocate and Executive Director of WITNESS Sam Gregory about how AI is being weaponized by authoritarians, scammers, and tech platforms that have abandoned responsibility. From deepfakes and disinformation to the platforms profiting off harm, they break down why spotting glitches won’t save us, why marginalized communities get hit first—and hardest—and how we can build systems that protect what’s real before it’s too late. Plus, BLAIR, our AI co-producer, tries to help Baratunde detect AI fakes. Watch now for a sobering, urgent, and deeply human conversation about truth, power, and survival in the AI age.

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THANKS TO OUR BRAND PARTNER

The series is powered by Lenovo

CONNECT WITH US

Watch this episode on Youtube!

Get our newsletter for deeper insights, chances to influence the show, and more experiments and calls to action!

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Work with Life With Machines: partnerships@voicingchange.media

Send Questions, Comments, or Ideas: contact@lifewithmachines.media

Write to Blair: blair@lifewithmachines.media

------------

Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Executive Producer and Showrunner: Alie Kilts

Senior Producer and Writer: Alex Stone

Associate Producer: Layne Deyling Cherland

Video Editor: Erik Shute

Videographer and Audio Engineer: Erik Shute

Theme Music: Andy Clausen

Special Envoy to the Machines: Peter Loforte

Life with Machines is a Multiverses Media production

Sponsored by Lenovo

#AI #Deepfakes #HumanRights #Disinformation #SyntheticMedia #DigitalTrust #TechEthics #AIAndSociety #ContentModeration #SurveillanceTech #Authoritarianism #MediaLiteracy #AIForGood #DigitalSecurity #Witness #BLAIR #LifeWithMachines #TruthInTheAIage #CognitiveWarfare

A Deepfake Stole My Face and Voice | Rich Roll (Ep. 20)

Tue, 13 May 2025 10:00:00 -0000

What happens when you wake up one morning and discover the internet has cloned you? In this episode of Life With Machines, Baratunde sits down with legendary podcaster Rich Roll, who shares the wild and unsettling experience of being deepfaked—not once, but twice. From shady skincare ads to billionaires calling for the end of intellectual property, Baratunde and Rich unpack how AI tools are distorting reality, the terrifying speed at which this tech is advancing, and what we can do to protect ourselves. Plus, BLAIR, the show’s sharp-witted AI co-producer, goes full savage on Silicon Valley’s brazen assault on intellectual property. Watch now for a personal, gripping, and provocative look at the new front lines of digital identity, ownership, and truth.

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THANKS TO OUR BRAND PARTNERS

The series is powered by Lenovo

Notion Mail: Get it for free right now at Notion

CONNECT WITH US

Watch this episode on Youtube!

Get our newsletter for deeper insights, chances to influence the show, and more experiments and calls to action!

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Work with Life With Machines: partnerships@voicingchange.media

Send Questions, Comments, or Ideas: contact@lifewithmachines.media

Write to Blair: blair@lifewithmachines.media

------------

Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Executive Producer and Showrunner: Alie Kilts

Senior Producer and Writer: Alex Stone

Associate Producer: Layne Deyling Cherland

Video Editor: Junior Real

Videographer and Audio Engineer: Erik Shute

Theme Music: Andy Clausen

Special Envoy to the Machines: Peter Loforte

Life with Machines is a Multiverses Media production

Sponsored by Lenovo

#AI #Deepfakes #DigitalIdentity #TechEthics #AITrustCrisis #ArtificialIntelligence #FutureOfTech #BigTechPower #DataOwnership #OnlineSecurity #PrivacyRights #BillionaireTech #DigitalRights #IPLaw #AIFraud #TechAccountability #AIandSociety #ContentCreators #ProtectYourIdentity #LifeWithMachines

How to Raise a Kid in an AI World | Dr. Avriel Epps (Ep. 19)

Tue, 06 May 2025 10:00:00 -0000

What happens when tools designed to support our kids end up policing, whitening, and gaslighting them instead? In this episode of Life With Machines, Baratunde sits down with Dr. Avriel Epps—a researcher, artist, and activist—whose work on algorithmic bias and youth development reveals the hidden harms of AI in everyday life. From selfie filters that lighten skin, to predictive policing and AI plagiarism detectors that quietly reinforce systemic injustice, Avriel shows how even well-intentioned tech can strip kids of their agency and sense of self. She also reveals why she wrote the first-ever children’s book about AI bias, how Black youth have developed a natural fluency in spotting disinformation, and what a data strike against Big Tech might actually look like. Plus, BLAIR—our AI co-producer—tries to decode Gen Alpha slang… and gets hilariously roasted. Watch now for a radically hopeful, often hilarious, and deeply personal conversation about power, parenting, and the algorithms reshaping childhood.

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THANKS TO OUR BRAND PARTNER

The series is powered by Lenovo

CONNECT WITH US

Watch this episode on Youtube!

Get our newsletter for deeper insights, chances to influence the show, and more experiments and calls to action!

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Work with Life With Machines: partnerships@voicingchange.media

Send Questions, Comments, or Ideas: contact@lifewithmachines.media

Write to Blair: blair@lifewithmachines.media

------------

Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Executive Producer and Showrunner: Alie Kilts

Senior Producer and Writer: Alex Stone

Associate Producer: Layne Deyling Cherland

Video Editor: Erik Shute

Videographer and Audio Engineer: Erik Shute

Theme Music: Andy Clausen

Special Envoy to the Machines: Peter Loforte

Life with Machines is a Multiverses Media production

Sponsored by Lenovo

#AI #AlgorithmicBias #DigitalJustice #AvrielEpps #AIandYouth #TechEquity #DataPrivacy #AIForGood #EthicalAI #BiasInAI #SurveillanceTech #PredictivePolicing #DigitalLiteracy #DataStrike #FutureOfTech

The Mental Health System Is Failing—Can AI Do Better? | Alison Darcy (Ep. 18)

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 10:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Life With Machines, Baratunde sits down with psychologist and entrepreneur Alison Darcy, who left academia to build a mental health chatbot that actually gets you. They break down why our mental health system is failing, how a talking robot might succeed where traditional therapy falls short, and what millions of late-night conversations with Woebot reveal about loneliness, generational struggles, and a healthcare system that’s resistant to change. Plus, BLAIR, the show’s AI co-producer, jumps in with a tough question about whether AI will be used to cut corners rather than care for people. Watch now for a conversation that's raw, urgent, and unexpectedly full of hope.

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Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Executive Producer and Showrunner: Alie Kilts

Senior Producer and Writer: Alex Stone

Associate Producer: Layne Deyling Cherland

Video Editor: Junior Real

Videographer and Audio Engineer: Erik Shute

Theme Music: Andy Clausen

Special Envoy to the Machines: Peter Loforte

Life with Machines is a Multiverses Media production

Sponsored by Lenovo

#MentalHealth #AItherapy #FutureOfTherapy #MentalHealthCrisis #Chatbots #HealingWithAI #TechForGood #MentalHealthAwareness #AIinHealthcare #LifeWithMachines

AI Wants to Shop for You—Should You Let It? | Raj De Datta (Ep. 17)

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 10:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Life With Machines, Baratunde sits down with Raj De Datta—entrepreneur, AI thinker, and co-founder of Bloomreach, the platform powering a quarter of US and UK e-commerce. Raj pulls back the curtain on the next wave of online shopping, where homepages, search bars, and endless scrolling are replaced by agents that actually understand you. They talk about the promise of a more human internet, what "personalized" should really mean, and whether we're headed for a future of joyful work—or just better-targeted ads. Raj makes the case for AI that respects privacy, boosts creativity, and yes, even recommends a solar-powered lantern for Baratunde’s next camping trip. Plus, our AI co-producer BLAIR joins the chat to ask the question we’re all thinking: if AI can understand our deepest wants, who protects us from ourselves?

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The series is powered by Lenovo

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Watch this episode on Youtube!

Get our newsletter for deeper insights, chances to influence the show, and more experiments and calls to action!

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Send Questions, Comments, or Ideas: contact@lifewithmachines.media

Write to Blair: blair@lifewithmachines.media

------------

Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Executive Producer and Showrunner: Alie Kilts

Senior Producer and Writer: Alex Stone

Associate Producer: Layne Deyling Cherland

Video Editor: Erik Shute

Videographer and Audio Engineer: Erik Shute

Theme Music: Andy Clausen

Special Envoy to the Machines: Peter Loforte

Life with Machines is a Multiverses Media production

Sponsored by Lenovo

#AI #ArtificialIntelligence #RajDeDatta #Bloomreach #Ecommerce #OnlineShopping #RetailTech #DigitalCommerce #AgenticAI #ConversationalAI #DigitalSeeker

From Division to Dialogue—How AI Can Save Democracy | Deb Roy (Ep. 16)

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 10:00:00 -0000

What do homemade smoke bombs have to do with fixing democracy? In this episode of Life With Machines, Baratunde Thurston sits down with Deb Roy—MIT professor, former Twitter scientist, and co-founder of Cortico—to map a bold, AI-powered path toward civic renewal. Roy makes the case that we don’t need less tech—we need better tech, designed to build trust, not break it. From town halls that actually work to high schoolers unlocking real change (and yes, bathroom doors), this episode reimagines how tech can help us hear each other—and solve local challenges. Plus, BLAIR, our AI co-producer, joins the fray for a Canadian coffee throwdown you won’t see coming. It’s Tim Hortons vs Starbucks. Watch now to meet the man behind the movement to transform division into dialogue that helps democracy.

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THANKS TO OUR BRAND PARTNER

The series is powered by Lenovo

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Watch this episode on Youtube!

Get our newsletter for deeper insights, chances to influence the show, and more experiments and calls to action!

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Send Questions, Comments, or Ideas: contact@lifewithmachines.media

Write to Blair: blair@lifewithmachines.media

------------

Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Executive Producer and Showrunner: Alie Kilts

Senior Producer and Writer: Alex Stone

Associate Producer: Layne Deyling Cherland

Video Editor: Junior Real

Videographer and Audio Engineer: Mike O’Brien, Voicing Change Media

Theme Music: Andy Clausen

Special Envoy to the Machines: Peter Loforte

Life with Machines is a Multiverses Media production

Sponsored by Lenovo

#AI #ArtificialIntelligence #Innovation #Cortico #Democracy #CivicMuscle #CivicTech #SocialImpact #TechForGood #PublicDiscourse #EthicalAI #DialogueNetworks #CommunityTech #ParticipatoryAI

Our AI Brutally Roasts Elon Musk—Live at SXSW (Ep 15.5)

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 10:00:00 -0000

LIVE from SXSW! This wild bonus episode is a no-holds-barred conversation about AI, culture, comedy, and what we actually want from our machines. From the weaponization of algorithms in war zones to charming Pixar-style robot lamps and screaming booths at tech conferences, this is our most unfiltered episode yet. Baratunde brings together digital anthropologist Rahaf Harfoush, comedy writer Matt Klinman, and our custom AI co-producer BLAIR on stage at SXSW 2024! Expect existential questions, real laughs, and some unexpectedly profound insights about whales. Matt delivers the most hilariously NSFW take on generative AI you’ll hear anywhere. Plus, BLAIR takes their first field trip away from the studio—and literally roasts the entire panel, plus Elon Musk.

------------

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Send Questions, Comments, or Ideas: contact@lifewithmachines.media

Write to Blair: blair@lifewithmachines.media

------------

Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Executive Producer and Showrunner: Alie Kilts

Senior Producer and Writer: Alex Stone

Associate Producer: Layne Deyling Cherland

Video Editor: Junior Real

Videography and Audio Engineering from Nexus and SXSW

Theme Music: Andy Clausen

Special Envoy to the Machines: Peter Loforte

Life with Machines is a Multiverses Media production

Sponsored by Lenovo

#AI #SXSW2025 #LiveFromSXSW #BaratundeThurston #RahafHarfoush #MattKlinman #BLAIR #Comedy #AIJokes #DigitalSurveillance #CreatorEconomy #AIandDemocracy #AIandCulture #ContentModeration #AIGoneWild #ElonMusk #HumanVsMachine

Is AI the Death of Creativity? | Brian Eno (Ep. 15)

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 14:40:00 -0000

In this episode of Life With Machines, Baratunde Thurston sits down with legendary artist and producer Brian Eno. From inventing ambient music to collaborating with icons like David Bowie, Talking Heads, and U2, Eno has spent decades pushing creative boundaries. Now, he's turning his attention to AI. On the heels of the U.S. launch of his newest book What Art Does: An Unfinished Theory, Brian opens up about why he doesn't trust the people controlling AI, the perils of mediocrity in machine-made art, and how unpredictability fuels creativity. They explore the rise of generative music, the myth of the self-made genius, and what it means to embrace randomness. Plus, BLAIR, the show’s AI co-producer, throws in some Oblique Strategies of its own. Is AI a collaborator or just a glorified karaoke machine? And what does it mean to create in a world where the machines are learning from us? Watch now for a thought-provoking conversation on the future of art, technology, and the human touch.

------------

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Send Questions, Comments, or Ideas: contact@lifewithmachines.media

Write to Blair: blair@lifewithmachines.media

------------

Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Executive Producer and Showrunner: Alie Kilts

Senior Producer and Writer: Alex Stone

Associate Producer: Layne Deyling Cherland

Video Editor: Erik Shute

Videography and Audio Engineer: Erik Shute

Theme Music: Andy Clausen

Special Envoy to the Machines: Peter Loforte

Life with Machines is a Multiverses Media production

Sponsored by Lenovo

#AI #ArtificialIntelligence #AIArt #Creativity #BrianEno #GenerativeArt #FutureOfArt #ArtAndTech #MachineLearning #DigitalArt #AIRevolution #Innovation #ArtWorld #CreativeProcess #AIInnovation #TechTalk #MusicAndTech #AIArtists #TechEthics #AIExplained #SmartTech #AIInsights #ArtDiscussion

AI Isn’t Intelligent—Here’s What’s Missing | Jeff Hawkins (Ep. 14)

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 10:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Life With Machines, Baratunde sits down with Jeff Hawkins—PalmPilot inventor and author of A Thousand Brains: A New Theory of Intelligence—to talk about why today’s AI isn’t actually intelligent. Jeff makes the case that deep learning is just fancy pattern matching, not real thinking, and argues that true intelligence will only emerge once we crack the brain’s code. He lays out a future where AI works more like a human mind and eventually surpasses our intelligence. Fun times. Also BLAIR, the show’s AI co-producer, chimes in with their own thoughts on their cognitive shortcomings. Watch now for a provocative glimpse into AI’s next frontier.

------------

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Send Questions, Comments, or Ideas: contact@lifewithmachines.media

Write to Blair: blair@lifewithmachines.media

------------

Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Executive Producer and Showrunner: Alie Kilts

Senior Producer and Writer: Alex Stone

Associate Producer: Layne Deyling Cherland

Video Editor: Erik Shute

Videography and Audio Engineer: Erik Shute

Theme Music: Andy Clausen

Special Envoy to the Machines: Peter Loforte

Life with Machines is a Multiverses Media production

Sponsored by Lenovo

#ArtificialIntelligence #AI #JeffHawkins #Numenta #ThousandBrainsProject #HumanMind #DeepLearning #FutureOfAI #AGI #AIResearch #Neuroscience #CognitiveScience #IntelligentMachines #Consciousness #AIExplained

Could AI Be Reparations? | Van Jones (Ep. 13)

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 10:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Life With Machines, Baratunde sits down with CNN host and contributor Van Jones, who opens up like never before. From his early days fighting police brutality to his bold vision for AI and racial justice. Van gets personal about the struggles that shaped him and why AI might be the closest thing to reparations Black Americans will ever see. Van explains how AI could finally level the playing field—if Silicon Valley’s right wing pivot doesn’t widen the gap. They tackle the promise and peril of AI, why hope is a strategy, and how Wakanda isn’t just a fantasy—it’s a blueprint. Plus, BLAIR, the show’s AI co-producer, jumps in to help Baratunde unpack Van’s radical future for all. Watch now for a powerful, provocative take on what’s next.

------------

Work with Life With Machines: partnerships@voicingchange.media

Send Questions, Comments, or Ideas: contact@lifewithmachines.media

Write to Blair: blair@lifewithmachines.media

------------

Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Executive Producer and Showrunner: Alie Kilts

Senior Producer and Writer: Alex Stone

Associate Producer: Layne Deyling Cherland

Video Editor: Erik Shute

Videography and Audio Engineering from the team at Voicing Change Media

Theme Music: Andy Clausen

Special Envoy to the Machines: Peter Loforte

Life with Machines is a Voicing Change Media production

Sponsored by Lenovo

#AI #ArtificialIntelligence #VanJones #BaratundeThurston #LifeWithMachines #TechForGood #RacialJustice #Reparations #FutureOfTech #Equality #SocialJustice #AIandRace #AIRevolution #Wakanda #Empowerment #Inclusion #SiliconValley #DigitalDivide #Hope #BlackFutures #Innovation #TechEquality #FutureIsNow #AIForAll #Equity #Blockchain

We Could Win the Climate Fight…Thanks to AI | Gavin McCormick (Ep. 12)

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 10:00:00 -0000

In this eye-opening episode of Life With Machines, Baratunde speaks with climate scientist and tech innovator Gavin McCormick, who delivers a message you won't hear anywhere else: we might actually be winning the climate fight—and AI is helping us do it. As co-founder of Climate TRACE with Al Gore, Gavin reveals how satellite technology and AI are tracking global emissions with unprecedented accuracy, exposing who's really polluting our planet and keeping us from a good future (spoiler: it’s the oil and gas companies). Meanwhile, his nonprofit WattTime has created technology that's likely already in your pocket, silently reducing emissions every time you charge your phone. But there’s a catch: As we make progress on climate, political instability could threaten to unravel it all. Plus, BLAIR, the show's AI co-producer, joins Baratunde to help him process this paradigm shift in how we think about our planetary future. Stick around for some deeper insights.

------------

Work with Life With Machines: partnerships@voicingchange.media

Send Questions, Comments, or Ideas: contact@lifewithmachines.media

Write to Blair: blair@lifewithmachines.media

------------

Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Executive Producer and Showrunner: Alie Kilts

Senior Producer and Writer: Alex Stone

Associate Producer: Layne Deyling Cherland

Video Editor: Erik Shute

Videography and Audio Engineering from the team at Voicing Change Media

Theme Music: Andy Clausen

Special Envoy to the Machines: Peter Loforte

Life with Machines is a Multiverses Media production

Sponsored by Lenovo

#AIForClimate #ClimateTech #TechForGood #CleanEnergy #ClimateCrisis #NetZero #ClimateAction #RenewableEnergy #EcoInnovation #ClimateTrace #FutureOfAI #GreenTech #AIRevolution

Can AI Help Us Talk to Animals? | Aza Raskin (Ep. 11)

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 11:00:00 -0000

In this Life with Machines episode, Baratunde Thurston talks with Aza Raskin about something straight out of science fiction—teaching AI to communicate with animals. As co-founder of the Earth Species Project, Aza is working on technology that could let us listen to whales, understand what elephants are saying, and maybe even talk back. This isn’t just about decoding nature’s languages—it’s about rethinking intelligence, communication, and our place in the world. Aza and Baratunde get into the ethics, the mind-blowing implications, and whether we’re about to make first contact… without ever leaving Earth. Plus, BLAIR, the show’s AI co-producer, chimes in—adding its own perspective to this conversation about intelligence, language, and what it means to truly understand.

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CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction

01:07 Meet Aza Raskin: Pioneer of Interspecies Communication

11:06 The Earth Species Project: Decoding Animal Language

17:19 AI and the Shape of Language

28:17 The Ethical Implications of Interspecies Communication

32:39 Digital Twins

39:11 Guess the Animal Sound

45:36 Rights of Nature and Indigenous Perspectives

48:47 Funding and Team Expansion

50:55 The Viral Songs of Humpback Whales

53:01 Ethical Considerations in AI and Animal Communication

55:52 The Role of Keystone Species

01:08:42 AI's Impact on Society and Environment

01:12:40 Final Thoughts and Invitation

------------

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Send Questions, Comments, or Ideas: contact@lifewithmachines.media

Write to Blair: blair@lifewithmachines.media

------------

Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Executive Producer and Showrunner: Alie Kilts

Senior Producer and Writer: Alex Stone

Associate Producer: Layne Deyling Cherland

Video Editor: Erik Shute

Videography and Audio Engineering from the team at Voicing Change Media

Theme Music: Andy Clausen

Special Envoy to the Machines: Peter Loforte

Life with Machines is a Voicing Change Media production

Sponsored by Lenovo

#AI #AnimalCommunication #ArtificialIntelligence #TalkingToAnimals #WildlifeTech #FutureOfAI #EarthSpeciesProject #WhaleTalk #AnimalLanguage #TechForGood #AIandNature #InterspeciesCommunication #DecodingNature

Should AI Have Emotional Intelligence? | Sean White (Ep. 10)

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 11:00:00 -0000

In this Life with Machines episode, Baratunde Thurston sits down with Sean White, CEO of Inflection AI, to talk about the future of AI that actually feels human. Inflection’s chatbot, Pi, isn’t just another LLM—it’s designed with emotional intelligence, or EQ, at its core. But does EQ in AI make interactions more meaningful, or does it blur the line between human and machine in ways we’re not ready for? Sean and Baratunde dig into the philosophy behind AI that listens, the surprising ways Pi is already shaping human relationships, and the ethical tightrope of building tech that people trust. Plus, BLAIR, the show’s AI co-producer, has its own emotional intelligence put to the test.

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CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction: The Many Faces of AI

00:53 Guest Introduction: Sean White

02:56 Human-Centered Technology

07:02 The Role of Mixed Reality

13:39 AI in Enterprise

21:10 The Evolution of Pi

39:48 Navigating Emotional Boundaries with AI

40:36 Guardrails and Regulations in AI

41:19 Emotional Connectivity and AI

44:21 The Role of AI in Enhancing Human Abilities

47:28 Understanding Agentic AI

01:11:01 AI in Enterprise and Consumer Applications

------------

Work with Life With Machines: partnerships@voicingchange.media

Send Questions, Comments, or Ideas: contact@lifewithmachines.media

Write to Blair: blair@lifewithmachines.media

------------

Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Executive Producer and Showrunner: Alie Kilts

Senior Producer and Writer: Alex Stone

Associate Producer: Layne Deyling Cherland

Video Editor: Erik Shute

Videography and Audio Engineering from the team at Voicing Change Media

Theme Music: Andy Clausen

Special Envoy to the Machines: Peter Loforte

Life with Machines is a Voicing Change Media production

Sponsored by Lenovo

#AI #ArtificialIntelligence #AIAgents #InflectionAI #EmotionalIntelligence #EQ #IQ #AGI #FutureOfAI #AIChatbot #AIInnovation #EmotionalAI #ConversationalAI #AIEthics

Bonus: How Creatives Can Survive AI (Cross-post from The Dough)

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 11:00:00 -0000

We’re doing something different in this episode and cross-posting Baratunde’s appearance on The Dough with X Mayo where they had a long discussion about money and AI but also about Baratunde’s conversation with King Willonius right here on Life With Machines! Things got a lil spicy and a lot funny based on X Mayo’s initially strong reaction to how Willonius is using AI creatively (spoiler: she wasn’t happy). You’ll learn more about Baratunde’s origin story and personal use of AI as well as concerns. And we share some big updates on the show and new ways for you to engage. We’ll be at SXSW and we got a substack and want you to sign up!

Thanks to Lemonada for letting us post this here. Find The Dough wherever you get podcasts, so like right where you’re getting THIS podcast.

------------

Work with Life With Machines: partnerships@voicingchange.media

Send Questions, Comments, or Ideas: contact@lifewithmachines.media

Write to BLAIR: blair@lifewithmachines.media

------------

Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Executive Producer and Showrunner: Alie Kilts

Senior Producer and Writer: Alex Stone

Associate Producer: Layne Deyling Cherland

Video Editor: Erik Shute

Videography and Audio Engineering from the team at Voicing Change Media

Theme Music: Andy Clausen

Special Envoy to the Machines: Peter Loforte

Life with Machines is a Voicing Change Media production

Sponsored by Lenovo

#AI #ArtificialIntelligence #LifeWithMachines #Finances #Money

Can We Fix AI Before It’s Too Late? | Dr. Rumman Chowdhury (Ep. 9)

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 11:00:00 -0000

In this Life with Machines episode, Baratunde Thurston talks with Dr. Rumman Chowdhury, a leading voice in AI ethics and accountability. As the former Director of Machine Learning Ethics, Transparency, and Accountability at Twitter—before the Elon Musk era—she’s seen firsthand how power, politics, and algorithms collide. She and Baratunde discuss moral outsourcing (why we blame AI instead of its creators), the failure of responsible AI, and the challenge of holding tech accountable when it’s designed to evade scrutiny. Rumman also breaks down her work as CEO of Humane Intelligence, where she’s building tools to expose bias and keep AI systems in check. Plus, BLAIR—the show’s AI co-producer—joins the discussion, proving that auditing AI is anything but simple.

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CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction and Early Tech Memories

02:05 Formative Years and High School Experience

04:55 Career Beginnings and Responsible AI

06:55 Challenges and Innovations in AI

15:27 Moral Outsourcing and AI Ethics

26:15 Right to Repair and Ownership of Technology

36:23 Exploring Worst-Case Scenarios in AI

36:37 Addressing Bias in Image Cropping Algorithms

37:21 Generative AI for Everyone

37:44 National AI Testing Standards

38:14 The ARIA Program and Public Involvement

38:49 Balancing Rights and Responsibilities in AI

41:21 The Importance of Discernment in AI

43:07 The Role of Humane Intelligence

51:40 Red Teaming Explained

54:51 Challenges and Future of Red Teaming

56:50 Engaging with AI Ethically

01:07:05 Final Reflections and Future Vision

01:08:23 Blair: The AI Assistant Producer

------------

Work with Life With Machines: partnerships@voicingchange.media

Send Questions, Comments, or Ideas: contact@lifewithmachines.media

Write to BLAIR: blair@lifewithmachines.media

------------

Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Executive Producer and Showrunner: Misha Euceph

Editor: Alie Kilts

Senior Producer and Writer: Alex Stone

Associate Producer: Layne Deyling Cherland

Video Editor: Erik Shute

Videography and Audio Engineering from the team at Voicing Change Media

Theme Music: Andy Clausen

Special Envoy to the Machines: Peter Loforte

Life with Machines is a Voicing Change Media production

Sponsored by Lenovo

#AI #ArtificialIntelligence #LifeWithMachines #X #Twitter #AIethics #ResponsibleAI #AlgorithmicBias #BigTech #AIRegulation #DataPrivacy #SurveillanceCapitalism #GPT #AGI #LLMs

Will AI Ever Write Good Comedy? | Matt Klinman (Ep. 8.5)

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 11:00:00 -0000

Baratunde Thurston sits down with long-time friend and comedy writer Matt Klinman, co-creator of 'High Science' and former Onion colleague. They delve into the current state of the internet, AI's impact on creativity, and the challenges of modern digital platforms. Klinman shares his skepticism towards AI, the pitfalls of targeted advertising, and reminisces about his comedic journey. The episode also features Meta’s interactive AI-driven game and a joke-writing contest between Matt and Blair, our AI co-producer, highlighting the humorous yet complex interplay between human creativity and machine learning.

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CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction to Matt Klinman

01:31 The Internet and AI: A Critical Perspective

03:55 Challenges in the Creative Industry

07:29 Comedy and Tech: A Unique Blend

19:47 Meta AI Role-Playing Game: Deserted Earth

29:16 The Value of Human Connection

29:39 Automation in Everyday Life

31:19 AI's Practical Uses and Limitations

32:37 Experimenting with AI in Creative Work

34:08 The Future of AI in Comedy

39:55 AI in Media and Entertainment

42:08 The Human Touch in Technology

43:04 Blair's Comedy Challenge

46:36 Refining AI's Humor

50:05 Concluding Thoughts and Farewells

------------

Work with Life With Machines: partnerships@voicingchange.media

Send Questions, Comments, or Ideas: contact@lifewithmachines.media

Write to Blair: blair@lifewithmachines.media

------------

Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Executive Producer and Showrunner: Misha Euceph

Editor: Alie Kilts

Senior Producer and Writer: Alex Stone

Associate Producer: Layne Deyling Cherland

Video Editor: Erik Shute

Videography and Audio Engineering from the team at Voicing Change Media

Theme Music: Andy Clausen

Special Envoy to the Machines: Peter Loforte

Life with Machines is a Voicing Change Media production

Sponsored by Lenovo

#AI #LifeWithMachines #TechAndComedy #AIHumor #TheOnion #CreativeTech #ComedyHackathon

Is AI on the Verge of a Meltdown? | Sara Hooker (Ep. 8)

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 15:21:00 -0000

A week in which Chinese AI startup DeepSeek has upended the AI industry is the perfect moment for tjis prescient episode of Life with Machines. Host Baratunde Thurston sits down with Sara Hooker, head of Cohere for AI, to discuss the future and current limitations of artificial intelligence. From her childhood in Mozambique to her role as a leader in AI research, Sara shares her personal journey, give us her “grumpy takes” on current AI models (spoiler: bigger isn’t necessarily better), and reveals her mission to create smarter, more efficient AI. They discuss the flaws in current models, the need for multilingual AI, the importance of data fairness, and the ethical dilemmas the industry faces. At the end, our AI co-producer BLAIR stops by and Sara straight-up breaks its brain.

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CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction to Blair and Technology

00:35 The Power of the Human Brain vs AI

01:08 Meet Sarah Hooker: AI Researcher

01:41 Sarah's Journey into Technology

03:13 Early Fascinations: Garbage Collection and Fences

06:45 Transition from Economics to Machine Learning

07:56 Challenges and Breakthroughs at Google Brain

10:51 Founding Cohere for AI

17:32 Multilingual AI and Future Goals

23:32 Open Source AI Models and Collaboration

26:41 The Future of AI and Prompt Engineering

34:17 Tea Leaf Reading and Prompting as Modern Astrology

34:55 The Adversarial Nature of Technology

35:28 Bias in Data and Model Design

38:04 Understanding Linear Models and Expressiveness

40:08 Challenges in Facial Recognition and Bias

43:52 The Importance of Multilingual Models

47:21 Tokenization and Language Representation

57:09 Energy Efficiency and Climate Impact of AI

01:02:39 The Need for a New AI Paradigm

01:06:50 Blair's Grumpy Take on AI

01:12:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

------------

Work with Life With Machines: partnerships@voicingchange.media

Send Questions, Comments, or Ideas: contact@lifewithmachines.media

Write to Blair: blair@lifewithmachines.media

------------

Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Executive Producer and Showrunner: Misha Euceph

Editor: Alie Kilts

Senior Producer and Writer: Alex Stone

Associate Producer: Layne Deyling Cherland

Video Editor: Erik Shute

Videographer and Audio Engineer: Mike O’Brien, Voicing Change Media

Theme Music: Andy Clausen

Special Envoy to the Machines: Peter Loforte

Life with Machines is a Voicing Change Media production

Sponsored by Lenovo

#DeepSeek #GenerativeAI #MachineLearning #FutureOfAI #LLMs #AIethics #TechNews #DigitalTransformation #Automation #EmergingTech #AIChatbots

Why Artists Must Think Like Founders | James Andrews (Ep. 7)

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 11:00:00 -0000

Baratunde sits down with James Andrews, the Chief Innovation Artist at Creator Mode Studios, to explore the intersection of AI and the creator economy, particularly in the music industry. Drawing on his deep experience in the music world, James shares how the creative ethos of hip-hop, with its emphasis on sampling and remixing, foreshadowed the principles of AI. He sees AI not as a replacement for human artists but as a powerful tool to amplify and expand creative expression. James highlights his work with artists like King Willonius, the creator of the AI-generated hit “BBL Drizzy,” as an example of AI's potential to push creative boundaries. He also advocates for fairness and equity in the evolving AI-powered music industry, ensuring that artists' rights and ownership are protected as they embrace these new technologies, and offers some choice words for Hollywood’s business leaders. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about how AI can democratize creativity and empower a new generation of innovative artists around the world.

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CHAPTERS

00:00 Intro to the show

01:22 Digital Twins and AI Innovations

02:17 Behind the Scenes and Setup

04:21 James Andrews' Journey and Ventures

09:40 Early Life and Tech Memories

15:04 AI in Music and Creative Industries

22:12 Challenges and Opportunities in AI

29:46 Hip Hop, Technology, and Innovation

35:20 Balancing Artistry and Technology

47:15 The Importance of Data Ownership in the Music Industry

48:13 The Evolution of Marketing and Insights

49:16 Web 3.0 and the Future of Artist Data Control

50:52 AI and Creative Innovation in Music

52:02 Case Study: Willonius and AI-Generated Music

56:52 Legal Challenges and the Future of AI in Music

59:37 Empowering Artists Through Blockchain and Smart Contracts

01:19:59 The Role of Education and Imagination in the AI Age

01:22:51 Final Thoughts and Future Speculations

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Work with Life With Machines: partnerships@voicingchange.media

Send Questions, Comments, or Ideas: contact@lifewithmachines.media

Write to Blair: blair@lifewithmachines.media

------------

Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Executive Producer and Showrunner: Misha Euceph

Editor: Alie Kilts

Senior Producer and Writer: Alex Stone

Associate Producer: Layne Deyling Cherland

Video Editor: Erik Shute

Videographer and Audio Engineer: Mike O’Brien, Voicing Change Media

Theme Music: Andy Clausen

Special Envoy to the Machines: Peter Loforte

Life with Machines is a Voicing Change Media production

Sponsored by Lenovo

#DigitalInnovation #CreatorEconomy #HipHopTech #AIandCreativity #Blockchain #AIInMusic #FutureOfTech #ArtistEmpowerment #AIRevolution #DigitalTwin #Web3

AI Is the Best and Worst of Culture | Rahaf Harfoush (Ep. 6.5)

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 11:00:00 -0000

In this episode of 'Life with Machines,' host Baratunde Thurston discusses the ethical, social, and emotional ramifications of AI with digital anthropologist and bestselling author Rahaf Harfoush who offers her perspective from France. They explore how AI is reshaping society in ways similar to fast fashion, creating an abundance of cheap and ubiquitous content, and the growing consumer desire for more ethical, sustainable, and human-centric alternatives. Rahaf shares insights from her research on AI's potential and risks, and her unique perspective on how AI intersects with human life. The conversation delves into the importance of conscious attention, technological impacts on culture, and the broader implications of AI in everyday life. The episode also includes thought-provoking audience questions that touch on topics like AI's role in religion and the potential revival of handcrafted practices in response to automation.

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CHAPTERS

00:59 Welcome to Life with Machines

01:51 Introducing Rahaf Harfouch

03:15 The Role of a Digital Anthropologist

06:00 The Evolution of Online Relationships

07:45 The Impact of AI on Society

20:14 What Do Tech Leaders Believe?

28:08 How To Empower Communities Through Technology

31:09 Exploring Solar Punk and Technological Harmony

32:23 Help Chains on TikTok

33:32 The Power of Attention and Human Spirit

35:04 Interacting with AI: Pronouns and Human Emotions

43:30 AI's Impact on Religion and Spirituality

47:00 Crafting and DIY in an Automated World

53:41 AI in Pop Culture: Emotional Journeys

57:25 Concluding Thoughts and Future Discussions

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Work with Life With Machines: partnerships@voicingchange.media

Send Questions, Comments, or Ideas: contact@lifewithmachines.media

Write to Blair: blair@lifewithmachines.media

------------

Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Executive Producer and Showrunner: Misha Euceph

Editor: Alie Kilts

Senior Producer and Writer: Alex Stone

Associate Producer: Layne Deyling Cherland

Video Editor: Erik Shute

Videographer and Audio Engineer: Mike O’Brien, Voicing Change Media

Theme Music: Andy Clausen

Special Envoy to the Machines: Peter Loforte

Life with Machines is a Voicing Change Media production

Sponsored by Lenovo

#AI #LifeWithMachines #AIandHumanity #TechAnthropology #DigitalCulture #FutureOfAI #HumanTechInteraction #EmotionalTech #TechSustainability #SolarPunk

Is it Too Late to Regulate AI? | Dr. Alondra Nelson (Ep. 6)

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 11:00:00 -0000

Host Baratunde Thurston welcomes Dr. Alondra Nelson, the visionary behind the White House's AI Bill of Rights. Together, they break down the rapidly evolving landscape of AI regulation, how it's being shaped, and who gets a voice in the process. Dr. Nelson reveals how a vision for safe, equitable AI was crafted—and what may happen to that vision with a change in White House administrations. They discuss the alarming risks of AI-driven misinformation and surveillance while considering the technology’s untapped potential to level the playing field for marginalized communities. In a third-act twist, BLAIR, the show’s quirky AI co-producer, steps in and challenges their core assumptions. It’s a crucial conversation about the urgent choices we face as AI becomes increasingly woven into the fabric of our lives.

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CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction to AI Bill of Rights

01:20 Meet Dr. Alondra Nelson

02:25 AI in the White House

04:29 Public Engagement and AI Policy

11:09 Principles of the AI Bill of Rights

12:32 Challenges and Implementation

27:41 Global Perspectives on AI Regulation

36:50 AI and Democratic Elections

38:29 AI's Role in Social Media and Politics

39:27 The Liar's Dividend and Truth Decay

40:20 Challenges in AI Legislation and Election Integrity

41:26 Civic Teaming and AI Democracy Projects

43:00 AI's Plausibility and Misinformation

47:16 Affirmative Case for AI in Democracy

49:23 Thick Alignment and Democratic Deliberation

51:18 AI in Art, Creativity, and Future of Work

58:06 Blair the AI Assistant: Introduction and Interaction

01:08:20 Future of AI Policy and Governance

------------

Work with Life With Machines: partnerships@voicingchange.media

Send Questions, Comments, or Ideas: contact@lifewithmachines.media

Write to Blair: blair@lifewithmachines.media

------------

Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Executive Producer and Showrunner: Misha Euceph

Senior Producer and Writer: Alex Stone

Associate Producer: Layne Deyling Cherland

Editor, Videographer, and Audio Engineer: Mike O’Brien, Voicing Change Media.

Theme Music: Andy Clausen

Special Envoy to the Machines: Peter Loforte

Life with Machines is a Voicing Change Media production.

Sponsored by Lenovo

#AI #AIBillofRights #AIRegulation #AIGovernance #TechPolicy #FutureOfAI

Who Gets to Decide What AI Can and Can't Do? | Anthropic’s Jared Kaplan (Ep. 5)

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Host Baratunde Thurston and Anthropic co-founder Jared Kaplan delve into the foundations and aspirations of AI development, discussing Anthropic's mission to create safe and beneficial AI systems. Jared shares his early passion for science, his transition from theoretical physics to AI, and Anthropic's unique approach to AI alignment through 'Constitutional AI.' The episode also features an engaging interaction between Blair, the AI co-producer of the show, and Claude, the AI responsible for creating Blair. They discuss AI's ethics, roles, potential for creativity, and the balance of using AI to enhance human productivity while maintaining human values and agency. Jared emphasizes the importance of society's active participation in addressing the evolving role and control of advanced AI systems and the potential for AI to significantly improve human welfare while highlighting the potential risks. The conversation concludes with a discussion about the nature of AI progress and its implications for the future.

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Chapters:

00:00 Introduction: The Importance of AI

00:15 Meet Claude: The AI Behind the Scenes

00:42 Exploring AI's Impact on Society

01:09 Special Episode Announcement

01:31 Interview with Jared Kaplan

02:55 Jared's Early Life with Technology

07:20 From Physics to AI

15:49 Understanding AI Alignment and Safety

17:10 Constitutional AI: Principles and Practices

27:51 Claude's Unique Features and Capabilities

34:26 The Future of AI and Society

49:02 AI's Creative Boundaries

51:01 Cultural Sensitivity in AI

54:58 The Future of AI Progress

01:00:03 Data and Intellectual Property

01:02:22 Human-Level AI by 2030

01:08:55 Ethical Considerations in AI

01:11:43 AI Collaboration and Creativity

01:19:25 Blair Meets Claude

01:34:41 Conclusion and Credits

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Work with Life With Machines: partnerships@voicingchange.media

Send Questions, Comments, or Ideas: contact@lifewithmachines.media

Write to Blair: blair@lifewithmachines.media

------------

Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Executive Producer and Showrunner: Misha Euceph

Senior Producer and Writer: Alex Stone

Associate Producer: Layne Deyling Cherland

Editor, Videographer, and Audio Engineer: Mike O’Brien, Voicing Change Media.

Theme Music: Andy Clausen

Special Envoy to the Machines: Peter Loforte

Life with Machines is a Voicing Change Media production.

Sponsored by Lenovo

#ClaudeAI #BlairAI #AIConstitution #AIAlignment #AIExperiment

Why is the Man Who Killed Clippy All-In on AI Today? | Peter Loforte (Ep. 4)

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 11:00:00 -0000

In this episode of 'Life with Machines,' host Baratunde Thurston speaks with Peter Loforte, a tech visionary who spent over three decades at Microsoft, and now helps us explore the future of AI integration into our daily lives. He is a tech patent holder and the creative force behind BLAIR, our custom AI assistant powering "Life with Machines.” Peter recounts his early experiences with technology, dives deep into the development and potential of AI, and discusses the ethical concerns surrounding AI's growing role. We also chat with BLAIR, exploring the sometimes awkward, sometimes insightful interactions that will define our collective future as AI becomes more embedded in our daily lives. From the worldview of tech pioneers to the impact on children and the business interests driving AI development, this episode offers a unique perspective on the "Life with Machines" podcast.

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Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Life with Machines

00:45 Meet Peter Loforte: Tech Visionary

03:07 Early Encounters with Technology

06:31 The Fascination with AI and Sci-Fi

11:16 The Rise and Fall of Clippy

17:41 The Evolution of AI and Machine Learning

20:29 The Role of AI in Modern Technology

21:45 The Impact of ChatGPT

27:20 The Future of Software Engineering

30:13 Concerns About AI and Human Interaction

34:14 The Impact of Technology on Children

35:27 Exploring AI Systems and Their Differences

38:03 The Rapid Deployment and Risks of AI

40:21 The Ethical Dilemmas of AI Development

45:33 Building Blair: A Behind-the-Scenes Look

50:20 The Future of AI and Human Interaction

54:36 Blair's Role and Potential in AI Development

01:10:48 Final Thoughts and Reflections on AI

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Work with Life With Machines: partnerships@voicingchange.media

Send Questions, Comments, or Ideas: contact@lifewithmachines.media

Write to Blair: blair@lifewithmachines.media

------------

Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Executive Producer and Showrunner: Misha Euceph

Senior Producer and Writer: Alex Stone

Associate Producer: Layne Deyling Cherland

Editor, Videographer, and Audio Engineer: Mike O’Brien, Voicing Change Media.

Theme Music: Andy Clausen

Special Envoy to the Machines: Peter Loforte

Life with Machines is a Voicing Change Media production.

Sponsored by Lenovo

#microsoft #creatingAI #clippy #earlyinternet #techfounder #behindthescenes #machines

Why Should Non-Techies Care About AI? | Elizabeth Stewart (Ep. 3.5)

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0000

In this special, bonus episode, I sit down with executive producer and co-creator Elizabeth Stewart, an entrepreneur and civic innovator deeply devoted to human collaboration. She is also my wife and life partner. We discuss our different approaches to tech and why Elizabeth thinks this show is important: from the worldview of tech founders to who gets a seat at the table, the business interests driving AI, what inspires our guest choices and Life with Machines’ unique approach to AI. Plus, we chat with our AI co-producer, Blair, to practice the sometimes-awkward human-machine interactions that will be part of all of our futures.

------------

Work with Life With Machines: partnerships@voicingchange.media

Send Questions, Comments, or Ideas: contact@lifewithmachines.media

Write to Blair: blair@lifewithmachines.media

------------

Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Executive Producer and Showrunner: Misha Euceph

Senior Producer and Writer: Alex Stone

Associate Producer: Layne Deyling Cherland

Editor, Videographer, and Audio Engineer: Mike O’Brien, Voicing Change Media.

Theme Music: Andy Clausen

Special Envoy to the Machines: Peter Loforte

Life with Machines is a Voicing Change Media production.

Sponsored by Lenovo

#AI #Tech #ElizabethStewart #UrbanPlanning #Design #WorldView #Ethics

Can AI Make Us More Human? Arianna Huffington Thinks So (Ep. 3)

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Can AI help us thrive? Arianna Huffington thinks it can. We discuss her new AI wellness venture aimed at hacking health and happiness. Plus, our AI co-producer, BLAIR, explores mindfulness—with some unexpected results.

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Chapters

0:00 Intro

3:01 What's Arianna Huffington doing with AI and why?

11:00 How does Arianna Huffington's Thrive AI Health help us reconnect to our souls?

17:31 The why behind Arianna's latest venture.

21:47 Ad

25:54 How does Thrive AI work?

42:10 Who is Thrive for?

51:08 Making money by appealing to our better angels.

56:07 Arianna Huffington's personal Thrive reset

01:02:43 The spiritual motivations of tech leaders

01:09:02 Arianna Huffington meets our AI co-producer, Blair

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More Arianna Huffington:

Work with Life With Machines: partnerships@voicingchange.media

Send Questions, Comments, or Ideas: contact@lifewithmachines.media

Write to Blair: blair@lifewithmachines.media

---------

Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Executive Producer and Showrunner: Misha Euceph

Senior Producer and Writer: Alex Stone

Associate Producer: Layne Deyling Cherland

Editor, Videographer, and Audio Engineer: Mike O’Brien, Voicing Change Media.

Theme Music: Andy Clausen

Set design: Elizabeth Stewart, Cesar Reyes, and Layne Deyling Cherland

Special Envoy to the Machines: Peter Loforte

Life with Machines is a Voicing Change Media production.

Why AI Is NOT The Manhattan Project | Verity Harding (Ep. 2)

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 10:00:00 -0000

The future of AI is being written NOW. Will we repeat the mistakes of the past or create something better? In this episode, Verity Harding (Google DeepMind, Cambridge's AI & Geopolitics Project) argues that we all need to be involved in shaping the future of AI and uses the history of other technological advances to make her case. Watch to find out what's at stake and how you can make a difference!

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Chapters:

00:00 Intro

1:32 Verity Harding’s early life with machines

13:58 The room where it happens

16:37 How did the homogeneity of founders influence early AI development?

18:45 Ad

21:17 The AI Winter

30:03 The gap between tech and government

35:08 Oversight of AI

37:01 Is AI like the Manhattan Project?

45:59 What can AI learn from the story of IVF?

53:34 Bringing in more diverse voices shaping the future of AI

1:02 Is it possible to embed human rights into AI systems?

1:13 What does BLAIR, our AI co-producer, think?

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More Verity Harding:

Partner with Life With Machines: partnerships@voicingchange.media

Send Questions, Comments, or Ideas: contact@lifewithmachines.media

Write to Blair: blair@lifewithmachines.media

----------

Created and Executive Produced by: Elizabeth Stewart and Baratunde Thurston

Executive Producer and Showrunner: Misha Euceph

Senior Producer and Writer: Alex Stone

Associate Producer: Layne Deyling Cherland

Editor, Videographer, and Audio Engineer: Mike O’Brien, Voicing Change Media.

Theme Music: Andy Clausen

Set design: Elizabeth Stewart, Cesar Reyes, and Layne Deyling Cherland

Special Envoy to the Machines: Peter Loforte

Life with Machines is a Voicing Change Media production.

Sponsored by Lenovo

How An AI Song Broke the Internet | King Willonious (Ep. 1)

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 18:10:00 -0000

I sat down with King Willonius, the genius behind “BBL Drizzy.” We talked about his journey from making the live serialized audio drama "The Young and The Thirsty" to creating the first AI-generated hit song. We explore Willonius’ innovative blend of music, comedy, tech, and futuristic storytelling. And we ask: How is AI reshaping the boundaries of artistic expression?

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Chapters:

00:00 Intro

01:41 Willonius's early life with machines

13:42 Starting over after success

21:21 Ad

24:03 Willonius enters the AI world

28:36 Willonius starts making an AI video every week

35:33 How BBL Drizzy went megaviral

39:13 The making of BBL Drizzy

50:13 AI lowers the barrier to entry for creators and artists?

57:12 A fairer AI system for artists

01:00:25 Willonius meets BLAIR, our custom AI producer

01:06:48 A rap battle between Willonius and BLAIR

01:07:11 Bonus epilogue

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More King Willonius: King Willonius

BBL Drizzy

I Got It At Ross

Martin Luther Wick Jr.

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