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Digital Disruption is where industry leaders and experts share insights on leveraging technology to build the organizations of the future.
As intelligent technologies reshape our lives and our livelihoods, we speak with the thinkers, the doers and innovators who will help us predict and harness this disruption. Join us as we explore how to adapt to and harness digital transformation.
Copyright: © Info-Tech Research Group
Is artificial intelligence strengthening democracy or quietly reshaping power in ways we’re not prepared for?
On this episode of Digital Disruption, we’re joined by world-renowned security technologist and author Bruce Schneier.
Bruce is described by the Economist as a "security guru," he is best known as a refreshingly candid and lucid security critic and commentator. He works at the intersection of security, technology, and people. and has been writing about security issues on his blog since 2004 and monthly newsletter since 1998. He is a fellow and lecturer at Harvard’s Kennedy School, a board member of the Electronic Frontier Foundation, and the Chief of Security Architecture at Inrupt, Inc.
Bruce joins Geoff to explore one of the most important questions: Will AI strengthen democracy or quietly undermine it? From government services and public policy to cybersecurity, labor, and the justice system, Bruce breaks down how artificial intelligence acts as a power-magnifying technology, amplifying both the best and worst intentions of those who use it. Drawing from real-world examples in Germany, Brazil, Japan, France, Canada, and the United States, this conversation examines where AI is already reshaping democratic institutions. He also outlines four concrete strategies for steering AI toward democratic outcomes: resisting harmful uses, reforming the AI ecosystem, responsibly deploying AI where it helps, and fixing the underlying societal problems AI tends to amplify.
This conversation also dives into:
◼️How AI can improve government efficiency without replacing human judgment
◼️The risks of AI concentration in the hands of powerful corporations and governments
◼️AI’s impact on work, jobs, and hiring in an era of automation
◼️The role of regulation, reform, and resistance in shaping AI’s future
◼️Whether AI will ultimately democratize power or reinforce inequality
In this video:
00:00 Intro
02:10 AI as a power-magnifying technology
05:00 The four ways AI can help or harm democracy
07:20 Real-World AI use in elections and civic engagement (Germany & Japan)
10:00 AI in courts, justice systems, and public administration (Brazil)
12:30 Journalism, transparency, and AI as an investigative tool
15:00 Human-in-the-loop: Why oversight still matters
18:20 Designing AI that can say “yes” but not “no”
21:00 AI, Work, hiring, and the automation arms race
24:00 Fraud, trust, and remote work in the AI Era
27:00 Does AI democratize power or reinforce it?
30:00 Trustworthy AI vs. “good enough” AI
33:00 When AI is forced on citizens without choice
36:00 Regulation, markets, and the myth of the AI arms race
39:00 What leaders should ask before deploying AI
42:00 Jobs, backlash, and AI-driven inequality
44:00 Lessons from blockchain and past tech hype cycles
48:00 AI, cybersecurity, and the attacker vs. defender balance
52:00 The future of AI skills and careers
55:00 Steering AI toward democracy
Connect with Bruce:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bruce.schneier
Our links:
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=podcast
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
What does the future of AI really look like as we head toward 2026, beyond the hype, headlines, and fear-driven narratives?
On this episode of Digital Disruption, we’re joined by internationally recognized advisor, speaker, and researcher on AI strategy, Walter Pasquarelli.
Walter is one of the world’s leading voices on ethical and strategic AI. He has advised governments, global institutions, and leading technology companies on AI governance, policy, and readiness, and brings a grounded perspective on what it really takes to lead in the age of artificial intelligence.
Walter joins Geoff to unpack what’s actually happening with artificial intelligence and what most media coverage gets wrong. He brings a 360-degree view of AI adoption and how AI is moving out of boardrooms and into everyday life, reshaping how people think, decide, work, and relate to technology.
This conversation dives into:
Why AI adoption is accelerating among consumers not just enterprises
The rise of AI companions, humanoid robots, and everyday AI use
The real risks behind automation anxiety, data privacy, and emotional dependency
What “AI psychosis” is and why it’s a growing concern
Why AI literacy matters more than fear, hype, or blind regulation
How AI is reshaping work, leadership, and global competitiveness
In this video:
00:00 Intro
01:14 AI’s trajectory toward 2026
02:09 AI moves from boardrooms to living rooms
03:16 Humanoid robots: From screens to physical bodies
05:35 Household robots, prestige, and consumer adoption
07:33 Military, drones, and high-stakes AI applications
08:46 Self-driving cars as robotics, not just vehicles
13:49 Automation anxiety and ethical reality
18:30 Shifting authority from humans to algorithms
19:58 Power concentration and data privacy risks
22:49 AI, mental health, and emotional dependency
28:11 Why regulation alone will always lag
33:25 Business leaders’ biggest AI misconceptions
36:49 Data, talent, and capability gaps
42:18 Estonia, strategy, and digital leadership
44:42 Advising governments: What leaders must do
49:49 AI, sector disruption, and the future of work
53:22 Why top performers benefit most from AI
56:14 Judgment, curation, and human excellence
Connect with Walter:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/walter-m-pasquarelli/?originalSubdomain=uk
X: https://x.com/waltpasquarelli
Our links:
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=podcast
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
What if AI becomes the most consequential technology in human history?
On this episode of Digital Disruption, we’re joined by Nina Schick, geopolitical analyst and one of the world’s leading voices on AI.
Nina Schick is a globally recognized expert on AI, geopolitics, and power. She was among the first to forecast the societal impact of AI-generated content and now leads the conversation on Industrial Intelligence, the idea that AI is not just software, but a geopolitical and industrial transformation.
Nina sits down with Geoff to unpack how intelligence itself is becoming a geopolitical weapon. She explains why we are entering the Age of Intelligence, where non-biological intelligence may soon rival or surpass human intelligence, reshaping economics, warfare, democracy, labor, and global power structures
This conversation goes far beyond AI tools and chatbots. We explore:
Why AGI may arrive sooner than expected
How AI infrastructure and scaling laws are reshaping global power
What AI means for warfare, democracy, and national security
How near-zero-cost intelligence will transform work and leadership
In this episode:
00:00 Intro
01:33 The AI scaling laws accelerating toward AGI
03:09 Excitement vs fear: how disruptive will AI really be?
05:16 Deepfakes, information warfare, and early AI misuse
06:58 AI’s true killer app: scientific discovery
08:49 Intelligence as a utility and the speed of global disruption
10:38 Why AI is becoming the biggest political issue of our time
12:12 Concentration of power and the rise of AI monopolies
14:33 Technology, history, and why power always follows innovation
16:18AI infrastructure, hyperscalers, and trillion-dollar CapEx
19:05 AI as hard power and American technological dominance
21:15 NATO, national security, and autonomous warfare
23:55 The end of American hegemony and the rise of hard power politics
27:36 Democracy vs authoritarianism in the AI race
29:48 Why trivial consumer AI is a strategic failure
35:52 What AI deployment really means for businesses
39:13 The myth of AI tools vs intelligence as a capability
41:41 Will AI actually cause mass layoffs?
46:32 Asset ownership in a world of cheap intelligence
50:24 How AI empowers individuals and emerging economies
52:51 The most important skills for the AI age
55:38 Why being human matters more than ever
56:41 Resilience, risk, and the future
Connect with Nina:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ninaschick/
X: https://x.com/NinaDSchick
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=podcast
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
Is the metaverse actually dead or just badly branded?
On this episode of Digital Disruption, we’re joined by Christian Venables, co-founder of Radical Realities.
Christian specializes in immersive technology and AI, staying at the forefront of emerging tools, platforms, and workflows. With a strong foundation in architecture and design, he has transitioned into extended reality (XR), exploring the evolving possibilities of virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and spatial computing. He is the Co-Founder of Radical Realities, a global immersive studio of creative innovators operating entirely virtually. The studio delivers experiences that transcend the physical world, spanning metaverse development, gaming, AR/VR/MR, CGI, VFX, and AI consultancy. Throughout his career, Christian has led and contributed to immersive projects for globally recognized brands including Coachella, Universal, Disney, Cartier, and Hyundai.
Christian sits down with Geoff to break down why the metaverse will be rebranded and not abandoned. The real future isn’t cartoon avatars or fantasy worlds, but spatial computing, AR glasses, and ambient interfaces that blend seamlessly into everyday life. Despite years of hype, backlash, and false hope, the metaverse may finally be entering its most practical and powerful phase. Christian explains why the term itself may disappear, while the underlying technologies XR, spatial computing, AI-driven 3D design, and wearable AR glasses, are already reshaping how we work, learn, design, and collaborate. From Meta Ray-Ban display glasses and neural wristbands to Gravity Sketch, Unreal Engine, and AI-assisted worldbuilding; This conversation explores how immersive computing is moving beyond gimmicks into real-world utility, especially across architecture, engineering, education, and the creative industries.
In this video:
00:00 Intro
03:00 Is the metaverse dead or just misbranded?
06:00 Spatial computing vs virtual worlds
09:00 Why AR glasses matter more than headsets
12:00 Smart glasses: why this wave is different
15:00 Neural wristbands and gesture-based control
18:00 How quickly humans become dependent on tech
21:00 The split between human-made and AI-generated culture
24:00 Augmenting creativity instead of replacing it
27:00 Designing entirely inside VR
30:00 Gravity Sketch: true 3D creation explained
34:00 Why spatial collaboration beats screens
38:00 Real-world use cases: architecture & manufacturing
42:00 Why mouse and keyboard are reaching their limits
47:00 AI + XR: generating worlds in real time
52:00 What needs to happen before immersive tech scales
56:00 Should immersive computing be back on our radar?
Connect with Christian:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christian-venables-74542836/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/csavenables/
X: https://x.com/Csavenables
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=podcast
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
What happens when the people building artificial intelligence quietly believe it might destroy us?
On this episode of Digital Disruption, we’re joined by Gregory Warner, Peabody Award–winning journalist, former NPR correspondent, and host of the hit AI podcast The Last Invention.
Gregory Warner is a versatile journalist and podcaster. He has been recognized with a Peabody Award and other awards from organizations like Edward R. Murrow, New York Festivals, AP, and PRNDI. Warner's career includes serving as an East Africa correspondent, where he covered the region's economic growth and terrorism threats. He has also worked as a senior reporter for American Public Media's Marketplace, focusing on the economics of American health care. His work has been recognized with a Best News Feature award from the Third Coast International Audio Festival.
Gregory sits down with Geoff for an honest conversation about the AI race unfolding today. After years spent interviewing the architects, skeptics, and true believers behind advanced AI systems, Gregory has come away with an unsettling insight: the same people racing to build more powerful models are often the most worried about where this technology is heading. This episode explores whether we’re already living inside the AI risk window, why AI safety may be even harder than nuclear safety, and why Silicon Valley’s “move fast and fix later” mindset may not apply to superintelligence. It also examines the growing philosophical divide between AI doomers and AI accelerationists. This conversation goes far beyond chatbots and job-loss headlines. It asks a deeper question few are willing to confront: are we building something we can’t control and, doing it anyway?
In this video:
00:00 Intro
03:00 AI models that already behave like elite hackers
05:00 Why the AI risk window may already be open
06:30 What AI safety actually means (and why it’s so hard)
12:00 Human-in-the-loop: safety feature or illusion?
15:00 AI as an alien intelligence, not a human one
19:00 The Silicon Valley AI arms race explained
21:00 OpenAI, DeepMind, Anthropic, xAI: who’s racing and why
25:00 The “Compressed Century” and radical AI optimism
27:00 Can AI actually solve humanity’s biggest problems?
33:00 Capital, competition, and the pressure to deploy
37:00 Is AI more dangerous than nuclear weapons?
39:00 The problem with comparing AI to past technologies
43:00 What happens to human agency in an AI-driven world?
45:00 How AI reshapes creativity, journalism, and truth
53:00 The quiet assumptions built into AI systems
55:00 Why optimism and fear both miss the full picture
59:00 What responsibility do users have?
01:01:00 The most important question we’re not asking about AI
Connect with Gregory:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/radiogrego/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/radiogrego/
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=podcastFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
What happens to jobs, money, and meaning when intelligence becomes cheaper than labor and humans are no longer the smartest ones in the room?
On this episode of Digital Disruption, we’re joined by Emad Mostaque, founder of Stability AI and a leading voice in the global AI revolution.
Emad Mostaque is a businessman, mathematician, and former hedge fund manager. He is the co-founder and was CEO of Stability AI, the company behind the popular text-to-image generator Stable Diffusion. With a master’s degree in mathematics and computer science from Oxford, Emad Mostaque has significantly contributed to artificial intelligence. His vision for Stability AI was to “build the foundation to activate humanity’s potential” through open-source generative AI.
Emad sits down with Geoff to explore a future that may arrive far sooner than most people expect. He argues that within the next 1,000 days, artificial intelligence will fundamentally reshape the global economy, upending work, capitalism, enterprise software, and even how we define human value. Drawing from his book The Last Economy, Emad lays out a stark and deeply thought-provoking framework for understanding what comes next when cognitive labor becomes economically irrelevant. This conversation explores the inevitabilities of exponential AI progress, including why intelligence is becoming “too cheap to measure,” how AI agents will replace many jobs done behind a screen, and the coming shift from human-plus-AI teams to AI-only systems. Beyond the economics, Emad also tackles the human question: where meaning comes from in a world where AI outperforms us at most cognitive tasks. He argues that resilience in the AI age will depend less on job titles and more on community, networks, relationships, and how deeply individuals engage with the technology itself.
In this video:
00:00 Intro
04:30 What is “The Last Economy”?
08:45 Intelligence becomes too cheap to measure
13:30 The three possible AI futures
18:00 Are humans becoming the weakest link?
22:15 The rise of economic agents
27:00 Digital doubles and the end of white-collar work
31:45 Enterprises racing toward zero employees
36:30 Why AI is cheaper than human labor (by orders of magnitude)
41:15 Software, SaaS, and the collapse of enterprise moats
46:00 The internet after AI agents
50:15 Who controls the “AI next to you”?
54:30 Open-Source vs Big Tech AI
58:45 The first one-person billion-dollar company
1:03:30 What humans are still for
1:07:00 How to prepare for the AI economy now
Connect with Emad:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emad-mostaque-9840ba274/?originalSubdomain=uk
X: https://x.com/EMostaque
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mostaquee/
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=podcastFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
Is artificial intelligence humanity’s greatest salvation, or the most dangerous force we’ve ever unleashed?
Artificial intelligence is no longer a future concept, it’s a force already reshaping geopolitics, economics, warfare, and the human experience itself. In this year in review episode of Digital Disruption, we bring together the most provocative, conflicting, and urgent ideas from this past year to confront the biggest question of our time: What does AI actually mean for humanity’s future?
Across more than 40 conversations with leading technologists, journalists, researchers, and futurists, one theme dominated every debate, AI. Some guests argue that artificial general intelligence (AGI) and superintelligence could trigger an extinction-level event. Others believe AI may usher in an era of total abundance, solving humanity’s hardest problems. And still others claim today’s AI hype is little more than marketing smoke and mirrors.
This episode puts those worldviews head-to-head.
In this episode:
00:00 The AI singularity is here
05:00 Existential threat or greatest opportunity?
10:00 Why no one agrees on ai’s future
15:00 The race toward AGI and superintelligence
20:00 The control problem nobody has solved
25:00 Intelligence has no morality
30:00 Capitalism, venture capital, and the AI arms race
35:00 Is AI just a marketing illusion?
40:00 Generative AI: Power, limits, and misuse
45:00 Autonomous weapons and modern warfare
50:00 Fear as the driver of dangerous innovation
55:00 Why AI is not like nuclear weapons
1:00:00 The first and second AI dilemmas
1:05:00 Handing decisions over to machines
1:10:00 Collapse, abundance, or course correction?
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=podcastFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
Are companies preparing for an AI-powered future or reacting out of fear of being left behind?
Looking ahead to 2026, Geoff Nielson and Jeremy Roberts sit down for an unfiltered conversation about artificial intelligence, the economy, and the future of work. As AI hype accelerates across markets, boardrooms, and headlines, they ask the hard questions many leaders and workers are quietly worrying about: Are we in an AI bubble? If so, what happens when expectations collide with reality?
This episode explores whether today’s massive investment in AI, GPUs, infrastructure, copilots, and generative tools is laying the foundation for long-term value or repeating the familiar patterns of past tech bubbles like the dot-com boom and the subprime mortgage crisis. Geoff and Jeremy break down why traditional metrics like price-to-earnings ratios matter, why Nvidia and big tech dominate the narrative, and why the real risk may not be collapse but widespread underperformance.
The conversation goes far beyond markets. They dig into the impact of AI on jobs, layoffs, and corporate restructuring, challenging the idea that AI is “taking jobs” versus being used as convenient cover for economic tightening. From IT, HR, and operations to customer-facing roles, they examine how AI could reshape workforce composition, accelerate automation, and create a new and potentially unsettling employment equilibrium. You’ll also hear a candid critique of how organizations are actually using AI today and what is to come next in 2026.
Tech Trends Report 2026: https://www.infotech.com/research/ss/tech-trends-2026?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=research
In this video:
00:00 Just add AI to everything?
03:45 Looking ahead to 2026: Nobody knows what’s coming
07:10 Are we in an AI bubble?
12:30 Comparing AI to the dot-com and 2008 crashes
18:10 Nvidia, GPUs, and the AI Gold Rush
24:20 Why AI infrastructure may be ahead of real-world use cases.
30:40 Markets untethered from reality
36:50 is AI really taking jobs or is something else happening?
43:30 The real employment question for 2026
49:40 Corporate bloat, back-office roles, and automation
56:10 Why most AI projects fail to deliver value
1:02:45 From productivity theater to real ROI
1:09:20 Faster horses vs. Real cars in AI
1:15:40 AI 2.0: Agents, experiments, and what comes next
1:22:10 The real risk ahead: Underperformance, not collapse
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=podcast
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
Are we using AI in a way that actually makes us smarter or are we unknowingly making ourselves less capable, less curious, and easier to automate?
On this episode of Digital Disruption, we are joined by artificial intelligence expert and neuroscientist, Dr. Vivienne Ming.
Over her career, Dr. Vivienne Ming has founded 6 startups, been chief scientist at 2 others, and founded The Human Trust, a philanthropic data trust and “mad science incubator” that explores seemingly intractable problems—from a lone child’s disability to global economic inclusion—for free. She co-founded Dionysus Health, combining AI and epigenetics to invent the first ever biological test for postpartum depression and change the lives of millions of families. She also develops AI tools for learning at home and in school, models of bias in hiring and promotion, and neurotechnologies to treat dementia and TBI. Vivienne was named one of “10 Women to Watch in Tech” by Inc. Magazine and one of the BBC’s 100 Women in 2017. She is featured frequently for her research and inventions in The Financial Times, The Atlantic, Quartz Magazine and the New York Times.
Dr. Vivienne Ming sits down with Geoff to unpack one of the most misunderstood truths about artificial intelligence: AI isn’t here to replace your thinking it’s here to challenge it. And whether you grow or get left behind depends entirely on how you choose to engage with it. Dr. Ming reveals why most organizations and most individuals are using AI in the worst possible way. Instead of creating leverage, they’re creating “work slop,” cognitive dependency, shallow automation, and declining human capability. She explains why the real competitive advantage in the AI age comes from productive friction, creative complementarity, and teams that know how to use AI to explore the ill-posed problems—the ambiguous, uncertain, high-value challenges machines can’t solve on their own. From how to robot-proof your company, to why AI tutors fail when they give answers, to the science of courage, reward systems, and organizational culture, this conversation is one of the most honest explorations of the future of human capability in an AI-saturated world.
In this video:
00:00 Intro
02:30 The real value of hybrid intelligence
05:00 Cognitive automation vs. true complementarity
08:20 Ill-posed problems: where humans still win
12:10 What elite performers really do differently
16:00 The paradox of AI: why more automation creates more work
18:30 How hybrid teams beat prediction markets
20:50 Inequality & imagination disease in AI
23:10 AI tutors & the golden rule: never give the answer
28:00 The nemesis prompt: how to robot-proof yourself
44:20 Courage, ethics & reward structures in organizations
54:00 Using AI without losing the human story
01:06:30 How to robot-proof your company
Connect with Vivienne:
Website: https://socos.org/about-vivienne
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vivienneming/
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=podcastFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
If AI is becoming a “playground” for experimentation, are today’s organizations bold enough to explore it or are they still too afraid to try?
On this episode of Digital Disruption, we are joined by Kenneth Cukier, Deputy Executive Editor at The Economist and bestselling author.
Kenneth Cukier is the Deputy Executive Editor at The Economist. He is the author of several books on technology and society, notably “Framers” on the power of mental models and the limitations of AI, with Viktor Mayer-Schönberger and Francis de Vericourt, as well as “Big Data: A Revolution That Transforms How We Live, Work and Think” with Viktor. It was a NYT bestseller translated into over 20 languages, and sold over two million copies worldwide. It won the National Library of China’s Wenjin Book Award and was a finalist for the FT Business Book of the Year. Kenn also coauthored a follow-on book, “Learning with Big Data: The Future of Education”. He has been a frequent commentator on CBS, CNN, NPR, the BBC and was a member of the World Economic Forum’s global council on data-driven development.
Kenneth has spent decades at the intersection of AI, journalism, business strategy, and global policy. In this conversation, he sits down with Geoff to share candid insights on how AI is reshaping organizations, leadership, economics, and the future of work. He breaks down the real state of AI, what’s hype, what’s real, and what it means for workers, leaders, and companies. Kenneth explains how AI is shifting from automating tasks to expanding the frontier of knowledge, why today’s multi-trillion-dollar AI investment wave is both overhyped and underhyped, and how everything from healthcare to management is poised to transform. This episode explores why most companies should treat AI as a “playground” for experimentation, how The Economist is using generative AI behind the scenes, the human skills needed to stay competitive, and why great leadership now requires enabling curiosity, psychological safety, and responsible innovation. Kenneth also unpacks the growing “AI-lash,” the limits of GDP as a measure of progress, and why the organizations that learn fastest, not the ones that simply know the most, will win the future.
In this episode:
00:00 Intro
05:00 AI Today: Overhyped, underhyped, or both?
10:00 From Big Data to LLMs: How we got here
15:00 The $3 trillion AI wave: What it really signals
20:00 Automation vs. knowledge expansion
25:00 Inside The Economist: How they actually use Generative AI
30:00 Why “more content” isn’t a strategy
35:00 Leadership in the age of AI: Curiosity, judgment, culture
40:00 The skills humans must keep and why they matter more now
45:00 The rise of the “AI-lash” and public skepticism
50:00 GDP, progress, and what we’re measuring wrong
55:00 Why the fastest learners win the future
1:01:00 What can this technology really do?
Connect with Kenneth:
Connect with Kenneth:
Website: http://www.cukier.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenneth-cukier-9ab56335/
X: https://x.com/kncukier
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=podcast
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
What does the future of work really look like when AI, identity, and culture collide?
On this episode of Digital Disruption, we’re joined by Dr. Anne-Marie Imafidon, Chair of the Institute for the Future of Work.
Anne-Marie is a leading voice in the tech world, known for her work as a trustee at the Institute for the Future of Work and as the temporary Arithmetician on Channel 4’s Countdown. A former child prodigy who passed A-level computing at 11 and earned a Master’s in Maths and Computer Science from Oxford by 20, she has since spoken globally for companies including Facebook, Amazon, Google and Mastercard. She hosts the acclaimed Women Tech Charge podcast and is a sought-after presenter who has interviewed figures such as Jack Dorsey and Sir Lewis Hamilton. Anne-Marie has received multiple Honorary Doctorates, serves on several national boards, and continues to champion diversity and innovation in tech. Her latest book, She’s In CTRL, was published in 2022.
Dr. Anne-Marie joins Geoff to break down how AI, big data, quantum, and the wider “Fourth Industrial Revolution” are transforming jobs, workplaces, identity, culture, and society. From redefining long-held beliefs about “jobs for life,” to the cultural fractures emerging between companies, workers, and society, Dr. Anne-Marie goes deep on what’s changing, what still isn’t understood, and what leaders must do right now to avoid being left behind. This conversation dives into why most AI use cases are still limited to fraud detection and customer service, and the hidden cultural blockers preventing real transformation. She emphasizes the danger of hype cycles, and how to stay focused on real value and how to build organizations that can experiment, learn, and make “high-quality mistakes.”
In this episode:
00:00 Intro
00:31 The Future of Work: What’s changing now
02:32 Generational identity, legacy jobs & why work is no longer “for life”
04:36 Work identity crisis & fragmentation of modern careers
07:45 Rethinking digital transformation & the fourth industrial revolution
11:36 Why the institute avoids the AI hype & looks beyond it
13:39 AI Hype vs. reality
17:50 High-quality mistakes
21:06 Tech design failures
23:18 Culture, customers & building organizations that reflect the real world
29:04 Destroying the “Einstein Myth” & rewriting who tech is for
39:37 First-principles thinking
50:34 Norms, unintended consequences & system-level change
55:32 When will the dust settle? ai timelines, disruption & what’s next
57:28 Closing thoughts
Connect with Dr. Ann-Marie:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aimafidon/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/notyouraverageami/
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=podcast
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
When intelligence becomes abundant, what happens to humanity’s purpose?
Andy Mills, the co-founder of The New York Times’ The Daily and creator of The Last Invention, joins us on this episode of Digital Disruption.
Andy is a reporter, editor, podcast producer, and co-founder of Longview. His most recent series, The Last Invention, explores the AI revolution, from Alan Turing’s early ideas to today’s fierce debates between accelerationists, doomers, and those focused on building the technology safely. Before that, he co-created The Daily at The New York Times and produced acclaimed documentary series including Rabbit Hole, Caliphate, and The Witch Trials of J.K. Rowling. A former fundamentalist Christian from Louisiana and Illinois, Andy now champions curiosity, skepticism, and the transformative power of listening to people with different perspectives, values that shape his award-winning journalism across politics, terrorism, culture wars, technology, and science.
Andy sits down with Geoff to break down the real debate shaping the future of AI. From the “doomers” warning of existential risk to the accelerationists racing toward AGI, Andy maps out the three major AI camps influencing policy, economics, and the future of human intelligence. This conversation explores why some researchers fear AGI, why others believe it will save humanity, how job loss and automation could reshape society, and why 2025 is becoming an “AI 101 moment” for the public. Andy also shares what he’s learned after years investigating OpenAI, Anthropic, xAI, and the people behind the AGI race.
If you want clarity on AGI, existential risk, the future of work, and what it all means for humanity, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
In this episode:
00:00 Intro
01:00 The three camps of AI: doom, acceleration, scouts
05:00 Why skeptics aren’t driving the AI debate
07:00 Job loss, productivity & “good” vs. “bad” disruption
09:00 Existential risk & why scientists are sounding alarms
12:00 The origins of doomers and accelerationists
17:00 How AI debates escalated after ChatGPT
22:00 Why 2025 is an AI “101 moment” for the public
24:00 The tech stack wars: OpenAI, Anthropic, xAI
28:00 Why leaders joined the AI race
30:00 The accelerationist mindset
33:00 Contrarians, symbolists & the forgotten history of AI
39:00 Big Tech, branding & why AI CEOs avoid open conflict
42:00 The closed group chats of AI’s elite builders
46:00 Sci-Fi narratives vs. real-world intelligence risks
52:00 The AI bubble & why adoption is unlike any tech before
01:00:00 Are we entering a wright-brothers-to-moon-landing era?
01:10:00 What AGI means for capitalism, work & purpose
01:18:00 Why public debate needs to start now
01:20:00 What happens next
Connect with Andy:
Website: https://www.andymills.work/about
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=podcast
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
Are we chasing the wrong goal with Artificial General Intelligence, and missing the breakthroughs that matter now
On this episode of Digital Disruption, we’re joined by former research director at Google and AI legend, Peter Norvig.
Peter is an American computer scientist and a Distinguished Education Fellow at the Stanford Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence (HAI). He is also a researcher at Google, where he previously served as Director of Research and led the company’s core search algorithms group. Before joining Google, Norvig headed NASA Ames Research Center’s Computational Sciences Division, where he served as NASA’s senior computer scientist and received the NASA Exceptional Achievement Award in 2001.He is best known as the co-author, alongside Stuart J. Russell, of Artificial Intelligence: A Modern Approach — the world’s most widely used textbook in the field of artificial intelligence.
Peter sits down with Geoff to separate facts from fiction about where AI is really headed. He explains why the hype around Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) misses the point, how today’s models are already “general,” and what truly matters most: making AI safer, more reliable, and human-centered. He discusses the rapid evolution of generative models, the risks of misinformation, AI safety, open-source regulation, and the balance between democratizing AI and containing powerful systems. This conversation explores the impact of AI on jobs, education, cybersecurity, and global inequality, and how organizations can adapt, not by chasing hype, but by aligning AI to business and societal goals. If you want to understand where AI actually stands, beyond the headlines, this is the conversation you need to hear.
In this episode:
00:00 Intro
01:00 How AI evolved since Artificial Intelligence: A Modern Approach
03:00 Is AGI already here? Norvig’s take on general intelligence
06:00 The surprising progress in large language models
08:00 Evolution vs. revolution
10:00 Making AI safer and more reliable
12:00 Lessons from social media and unintended consequences
15:00 The real AI risks: misinformation and misuse
18:00 Inside Stanford’s Human-Centered AI Institute
20:00 Regulation, policy, and the role of government
22:00 Why AI may need an Underwriters Laboratory moment
24:00 Will there be one “winner” in the AI race?
26:00 The open-source dilemma: freedom vs. safety
28:00 Can AI improve cybersecurity more than it harms it?
30:00 “Teach Yourself Programming in 10 Years” in the AI age
33:00 The speed paradox: learning vs. automation
36:00 How AI might (finally) change productivity
38:00 Global economics, China, and leapfrog technologies
42:00 The job market: faster disruption and inequality
45:00 The social safety net and future of full-time work
48:00 Winners, losers, and redistributing value in the AI era
50:00 How CEOs should really approach AI strategy
52:00 Why hiring a “PhD in AI” isn’t the answer
54:00 The democratization of AI for small businesses
56:00 The future of IT and enterprise functions
57:00 Advice for staying relevant as a technologist
59:00 A realistic optimism for AI’s future
Connect with Peter:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pnorvig/
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=podcastFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
Is “AI-first” the future of business or just another tech buzzword?
On this episode of Digital Disruption, we’re joined by former Google Chief Decision Scientist and CEO of Kozyr, Cassie Kozyrkov.
Cassie is best known for founding the field of Decision Intelligence and serving as Google’s first Chief Decision Scientist, where she helped lead the company’s AI-first transformation. A sought-after advisor and keynote speaker, Cassie has guided organizations including Gucci, NASA, Meta, Spotify, Salesforce, and GSK on AI strategy. She combines deep technical expertise with theater-trained charisma to make complex concepts engaging and actionable for executive and general audiences alike delighting audiences in over 40 countries across all seven continents, including stages at the UN, WEF, Web Summit, and SXSW.
Cassie sits down with Geoff to unpack the hidden cost of the “AI-first” hype, the dangers of AI infrastructure debt, and why real AI readiness starts with people, not technology. She reveals how leaders can architect their organizations for innovation, build human-in-the-loop systems, and create cultures that embrace experimentation instead of fearing mistakes.
Cassie exposes why 95% of organizations fail to achieve measurable ROI from AI and how leaders can finally bridge the AI value gap. This conversation dives into why AI success isn’t about tools, it’s about leadership, measurement, and mindset.
Most organizations chasing “AI transformation” see no measurable ROI not because the technology fails, but because leaders are still measuring value the old way. Generative AI success is hard to quantify when there isn’t a single “right answer,” yet many businesses keep trying to apply outdated metrics to a completely new paradigm.
In this video:
00:00 Intro
00:44 The Generative AI Value Gap: Why 95% get no ROI
02:20 The paradox of AI productivity
05:38 Why measuring AI value is harder than we think
12:04 Leadership abdication: “Just sprinkle AI on everything”
15:10 AI infrastructure debt explained
20:17 What real AI readiness looks like (beyond tech)
23:42 Humans as part of AI infrastructure
28:00 Why “AI-first” isn’t one-size-fits-all
33:31 Building human judgment into AI systems
36:19 The risks of scaling too fast
41:34 Automation vs augmentation: where leaders go wrong
44:00 The “do the work” approach to AI success
48:35 The recipe for an AI-ready organization
53:40 Guardrails, governance, and security in AI systems
57:00 Thinking probabilistically: a new mindset for leaders
1:03:20 The human side of AI transformation
1:06:45 Leading through uncertainty
Connect with Cassie:
Website: https://www.kozyr.com/about
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kozyrkov/
X: https://x.com/decisionleader
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Kozyrkov
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=podcast
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
Why is adaptability the real superpower for leaders in the digital age?
On this episode of Digital Disruption, we’re joined by Erik Qualman, a digital leadership expert, best-selling author, and motivational speaker.
Erik is a 5x #1 Bestselling Author and Keynote Speaker who has inspired audiences in over 55 countries and reached 50 million people. Voted the #2 Most Likeable Author in the World behind J.K. Rowling, his work Socialnomics has been featured on 60 Minutes, in The Wall Street Journal, and used by organizations from the National Guard to NASA. A professor of Digital Leadership at Northwestern University, Qualman’s research and courses are studied at 500+ universities worldwide. Through his animation studio, he has partnered with brands like Disney, Oreo, Chase, and Cartier. A former MIT and Harvard edX professor and honorary doctorate recipient, Qualman is also the creator of the bestselling board game Kittycorn.
Erik joins Geoff Nielson to break down what it really means to be AI-ready. He reveals why the leaders who know how to leverage AI and adapt fast will replace those who don’t. He explains why AI is overhyped in the short term but underhyped in the long term, and how the most successful leaders of the next decade will blend Flintstones-level human connection with Jetsons-era innovation. Erik explains why adaptability and emotional intelligence (EQ) are the new competitive edge in the age of artificial intelligence. This conversation explores how AI can remove friction, save time, and ironically help us become more human, while also exploring the guardrails needed for responsible tech adoption. Erik also shares lessons from advising some of the world’s top brands including Facebook, Disney, and Sony and explains why the future favors those who fail fast, fail forward, and fail better.
In this video:
00:00 Intro
02:00 The “Flintstones First” approach to digital leadership
04:40 How AI helps us become more human
06:15 Winners, losers, and adaptability in the AI era
08:30 Emotional intelligence and leadership in a tech-driven world
11:00 The need for guardrails in AI and social media
13:00 Teaching AI and digital leadership at Northwestern
15:00 How technology is transforming the classroom
17:45 The 70/30 rule: what changes vs. what never will
19:00 Core advice for leaders and digital innovators
21:30 Avoiding hype: testing new tech like AI and Clubhouse
23:00 Lessons from Montblanc and the origins of “Digital Leadership”
25:00 The Disney+ story: digital transformation done right
27:00 Building a culture of “fail fast, fail forward, fail better”
30:00 Balancing the Flintstones and the Jetsons
Connect with Erik:
Website: https://equalman.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/qualman/
X: https://x.com/equalman
YouTube: @equalman
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=podcast
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
Could AI’s biggest impact be economic, not technological?
On this episode of Digital Disruption, we’re joined by the founder of EZPR and host of Better Offline podcast, Ed Zitron.
Ed is a technology writer, public relations expert, and podcaster known for his critical takes on the tech industry and its biggest players. His work has appeared in leading outlets including The Atlantic, Business Insider, and TechCrunch. He is the author of the popular newsletter Where’s Your Ed At, launched in 2020, where he explores the intersection of technology, business, and culture. Ed also hosts the Better Offline podcast, delving into the realities of the tech industry and the ripple effects of the AI boom. With his candid insights and thoughtful commentary, Ed has become a trusted voice and sought-after speaker within the tech community.
One of the most outspoken critics of the AI boom, Ed Zitron joins Geoff to cut through the noise and talk about the truth behind generative AI. Ed breaks down why he believes AI “doesn’t work,” what’s really driving the trillion-dollar hype, and why big tech, media, and investors may be steering straight into the next Enron moment. This conversation unpacks why large language models fall short, how Microsoft’s AI Copilot has failed to deliver, and how corporate opportunism and investor “vibes” are fueling one of the biggest speculative bubbles in tech history. They also explore the “Enron-like” risks in the AI hardware race, the potential fallout for retail investors and startups, and tackle one of tech’s most misunderstood narratives, the myth of AI-driven job loss, revealing who’s really being replaced.
In this episode:
00:00 Intro
00:36 “AI doesn’t work”
02:05 The limits of LLMs
04:33 Microsoft Copilot and the illusion of productivity
07:05 The AI job myth: Who’s really being replaced?
10:00 CEOs, opportunism, and the false narrative of AI efficiency
12:00 The Salesforce example: Lies, hype, and failure to deliver
14:00 What AI can actually do
18:00 The trust problem
19:45 Media complacency and tech industry collusion
22:00 Microsoft, Nvidia, and false growth
25:00 The Enron parallels
28:30 Why investors are rewarding bad behavior
31:00 Who gets hurt when the AI bubble bursts?
35:00 Unsustainable startups and rising model costs
38:00 The coming collapse of AI infrastructure
40:00 What business leaders should do now to avoid being burned
44:30 The harsh truth about ChatGPT
49:00 What real innovation looks like: Batteries, EVs, AR, and more
54:00 The future of work beyond AI hype
Connect with Ed:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edzitron/
X: https://x.com/edzitron
Instagram: instagram.com/edzitron
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=podcast
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
Is the AI arms race between tech giants and nations pushing us toward a dangerous future?
On this episode of Digital Disruption, we’re joined by the founder of SingularityNET and the pioneering mind behind the term Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), Dr. Ben Goertzel.
Dr. Ben Goertzel is a leading figure in artificial intelligence, robotics, and computational finance. Holding a Ph.D. in Mathematics from Temple University, he has been a pioneer in advancing both the theory and practical applications of AI, particularly in the pursuit of artificial general intelligence (AGI) a term he helped popularize. He currently leads the SingularityNET Foundation, TrueAGI, the OpenCog Foundation, and the AGI Society, and has organized the Artificial General Intelligence Conference for over fifteen years. A co-founder and principal architect of OpenCog, an open-source project to build human-level AI, Dr. Goertzel’s work reflects a singular mission: to develop benevolent AGI that advances humanity’s collective good.
Dr. Goertzel sits down with Geoff to share his insights on the accelerating progress toward AGI, what it truly means, and how it could reshape human life, work, and consciousness. He discusses the role of Big Tech in shaping AI’s direction and how corporate incentives, and commercialization are both driving innovation and limiting true AGI research. From DeepMind and OpenAI to decentralized AI networks, Dr. Goertzel reveals where the real breakthroughs might happen. The conversation also explores the ethics of AI, the dangers of fake democratization and false compassion, and why humanity must shape AI’s evolution with empathy and awareness.
In this episode:
00:00 Intro
00:21 What is Artificial General Intelligence (AGI)?
01:10 The pace of AI progress and the hype cycle
05:44 The path from human-level AGI to superintelligence
09:20 How close are we to AGI?
13:08 Transformer vs. multi-agent systems
14:05 Which AI labs might strike AGI gold? (DeepMind, OpenAI, Anthropic)
17:07 Big Tech’s innovator’s dilemma and why true AGI may come elsewhere
20:20 Predictive coding
22:59 Why Big Tech resists new AI training paradigms
29:16 Imagining life after AGI: optimism, transhumanism, and choice
33:29 Navigating the transition from AGI to ASI
37:55 Decentralized vs. centralized control of AGI
43:20 Who (or what) will be in control
47:19 Risks of power concentration in early AGI development
51:01 Who should own and guide AGI?
53:06 Why we need participatory governance for intelligent systems
54:47 The danger of fake compassion and false democratization
1:00:50 Finding meaning in the age of intelligent machines
1:04:13 How AGI could help humanity focus on inner growth
1:07:20 – Learning how to learn: the last human advantage
Connect with Dr. Goertzel:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bengoertzel/
X: https://x.com/bengoertzel
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=podcast
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
How are AI and automation shaping both the attack and defense sides of cybersecurity?
On this episode of Digital Disruption, we’re joined by the founder and CEO of Have I Been Pwned, Troy Hunt.
Troy Hunt is an Australian security researcher and the founder of the data breach notification service, Have I Been Pwned. With a background in software development specializing in information security, Troy is a regular conference speaker and trainer. He frequently appears in the media, collaborates with government and law enforcement agencies, and has appeared before the U.S. Congress as an expert witness on the impact of data breaches. Troy also serves as a Microsoft Regional Director (an honorary title) and regularly blogs at troyhunt.com from his home on Australia’s Gold Coast.
Troy sits down with Geoff to share eye-opening insights on the evolving threat landscape of 2025 and beyond. Despite the rise of AI and automation, Troy emphasizes that many of today’s most damaging data breaches and ransomware attacks still stem from basic human error and social engineering. He explains how ransomware has shifted from encrypting files to threatening data disclosure, making it harder for organizations to manage risk and justify ransom payments. The conversation also touches on how breach fatigue and apathy have led many individuals and businesses to underestimate cybersecurity risks, even as incidents rise globally. He also highlights how AI tools are being weaponized by both defenders and attackers and argues that cybersecurity isn’t about perfect protection but about finding equilibrium: balancing usability, education, and risk mitigation.
In this episode:
00:00 Intro
01:15 Why human weakness beats AI
02:00 Young hackers and the rise of scattered spider
04:00 From hacktivists to career criminals
05:00 Ransomware’s new tactics
07:30 Should companies pay the ransom?
10:20 Can you ever be fully protected? Defense vs. response
11:20 How to convince boards cybersecurity is worth the money
14:20 Breach fatigue and public apathy
18:00 Reframing what ‘sensitive data’ really means
20:00 Passwords, reuse, and the real risk equation
24:00 Biometrics, face ID & the future of authentication
26:30 Threat Modeling 101
27:30 Barriers to cyber preparedness
29:30 How Have I Been Pwned works
32:00 The Future of Data Breaches
38:00 Microsoft’s Role in the Security Ecosystem
40:30 AI Hype vs. reality in cybersecurity
43:00 When AI helps hackers
52:00 Why transparency still matters after every breach
54:00 Accepting risk, building resilience
Connect with Troy:
Website: https://www.troyhunt.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/troyhunt/
X: https://x.com/troyhunt
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=podcast
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
What does the future of digital experiences look like when AI, accessibility, and entrepreneurship collide?
On this episode of Digital Disruption, we’re joined by serial tech entrepreneur, accessibility advocate, and co-founder of Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD), Joe Devon.
As Chair of the GAAD Foundation, Joe strives to disrupt the culture of technology and digital product development by embedding accessibility as a core requirement. Inspired by his 2011 blog post highlighting the need for mainstream accessibility knowledge among developers, GAAD has grown into an annual event observed on the third Thursday of May, promoting digital access and inclusion for over one billion people with disabilities worldwide. He also co-hosts the Accessibility and Gen.AI Podcast, exploring the intersection of accessibility and artificial intelligence.
Joe sits down with Geoff to explore how AI startups are reshaping the digital landscape, from code accessibility to the rise of small business innovation. He shares the story of how one blog post led to a global accessibility movement, why AI-driven tools could either democratize or centralize technology, and how the entrepreneurial spirit will define the next decade. From robotics fused with large language models to AI coding assistants generating billions of lines of code, this conversation dives into the challenges, risks, and opportunities for entrepreneurs and digital leaders navigating this transformation.
In this episode:
00:00 Intro
00:23 The “ChatGPT moment” for robotics
01:23 The mission behind Global Accessibility Awareness Day
02:29 How AI shifts the accessibility conversation
03:08 Why accessibility matters for everyone
06:17 Usability and empathy in digital product design
12:28 How AI can unlock inclusion and personalization
14:45 Aphantasia, hyperphantasia & diverse human abilities
17:34 AI and the future of sign language translation
19:23 How to work with disability communities
23:59 Advice for leaders getting started with inclusive design
25:13 AI coding tools revolutionizing software development
29:27 Can AI accessibility become the new standard?
30:06 How GAAD became a global movement
35:24 Entrepreneurship vs. 9-to-5 in an AI-powered economy
45:07 Lessons from the early internet and RSS’s decline
47:04 The debate on Universal Basic Income (UBI)
50:26 Joe’s father’s influence and the accessibility journey
52:34 From a blog post to real change in banking
57:13 The rise of AI influencers vs. the value of real humans
58:36 Advice for those unsure about entrepreneurship
Connect with Joe:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joedevon/
X: https://x.com/joedevon
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=podcast
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
What happens when AI becomes as good at thinking as humans and what skills remain uniquely ours?
On this episode of Digital Disruption, we’re joined by Mike Bechtel, Chief Futurist at Deloitte.
Mike began his career at Accenture Labs, where his team helped Fortune 500 clients put emerging technologies to profitable use. Twelve years and twelve U.S. patents later, he was named the firm’s first Global Innovation Director, tasked with creating the strategy, processes, and culture to foster company-wide intrapreneurship. At Deloitte, Mike and his team focus on making sense of what’s new and next in technology, with the goal of helping today’s leaders arrive at their preferred futures ahead of schedule. He also serves as an adjunct professor at the University of Notre Dame, where he teaches corporate innovation. In 2013, Mike co-founded and served as Managing Director of Ringleader Ventures, a venture capital firm investing in early-stage startups that had—intentionally or not—built simple solutions to complex corporate challenges.
Mike sits down with Geoff to talk about the future of AI and what it means for our work, creativity, and humanity. He shares an optimistic vision of a world where automation elevates human potential, allowing people to focus on creativity, innovation, and connection. This conversation challenges how we think about AI, AI art, the future of work, and the role of human skills. Mike draws on his experience advising leaders and students to show how we can prepare for a future where AI isn’t just a tool but a partner in thinking. He shares insights on the ethical challenges of outsourcing thought, why intent matters in how organizations use AI, and why AI is less about replacing jobs and more about automating the “muck” so humans can focus on the magic. Mike also challenges us to consider: what happens to writing, philosophy, and ethics when machines can master technical tasks faster than ever?
In this episode:
00:00 Intro
01:00 Why AI isn’t new (but why this moment matters)
04:10 Automation as a Trojan Horse for elevation
05:30 Best practices get automated, next practices get built
09:50 Expertise vs. curiosity: Why human skills win
15:00 From fear to opportunity
17:00 What clients really want in the AI era
19:20 Automating muck to unlock magic
22:00 The revenge of the humanities & synthetic thinking
23:00 Writing = thinking: Why we can’t outsource human thought
36:15 Why people still matter
42:00 Beyond AI: Blockchain, trust & cryptographic futures
47:30 Deepfakes, truth, and the math we can trust
1:05:50 The future of IT
1:08:00 AI Reshaping corporate teams & skills
1:14:40 Guidance for the next generation
1:19:30 Staying ahead of AI
1:21:45 Key takeaways
Connect with Mike:
Website: https://mikebech.tel/bio
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikebechtel/
X: https://x.com/mikebechtel
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=podcast
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
Which strategies separate the AI startups that thrive from those that die?
Today on Digital Disruption, we’re joined by Jeremiah Owyang, a venture capitalist at Blitzscaling Ventures.
Jeremiah, a longtime Silicon Valley native, leads investments in early-stage AI startups at Blitzscaling Ventures. He focuses on startups with the potential for rapid scale and enduring leadership in valuable markets. He also organizes the popular Llama Lounge: The AI Startup Event Series. As a speaker, Jeremiah forecasts how early-stage technology will reshape business and society and advises audiences on how to turn disruption into advantage.
Jeremiah sits down with Geoff to unpack the reality of Silicon Valley’s AI gold rush. With more than 38,000 AI startups competing for attention, thin technical moats, and the looming threat of consolidation, founders face more pressure than ever to stand out. He shares insider insights on why most AI startups are vulnerable to being wiped out by a single update from @OpenAI or Google, which industries and roles are most at risk of automation, and why critical thinking remains one of humanity’s most valuable advantages. The conversation also explores how Gen Alpha, the first AI-native generation, will grow up and work differently than any before, as well as the rise of AI agents and their impact on everyday work.
In this video:
00:00 Intro
01:45 The AI startup explosion
04:30 Why most AI startups will fail without real advantages
07:10 One OpenAI update could destroy your startup overnight
10:25 Thin technical advantages and the search for moats
13:40 What VCs look for in AI startups
17:05 The rise of Lean AI startups
20:15 AI agents and the automation of entry-level jobs
23:50 The skills humans still need
27:10 Gen Alpha: The first AI-native workforce
30:20 AI’s role in corporate strategy and decision-making
34:00 The Risks of over-reliance on AI in business
37:25 From Gold Rush to shakeout
41:10 How CEOs can future-proof their companies in the AI era
45:30 Humanoid robots, agents, and the next wave of disruption
49:15 Winners and losers in the AI economy
Connect with Jeremiah:
Website: https://web-strategist.com/blog/about/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jowyang/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jowyang/
X: https://x.com/jowyang
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
What risks come with AI systems that can lie, cheat, or manipulate?
Today on Digital Disruption, we’re joined by Dr. Ayesha Khanna, CEO of Addo AI.
Dr. Khanna is a globally recognized AI expert, entrepreneur, and CEO of Addo, helping businesses leverage AI for growth. With 20+ years in digital transformation, she advises Fortune 500 CEOs and serves on global boards, including Johnson Controls, NEOM Tonomus, and L’Oréal’s Scientific Advisory Board. A graduate of Harvard, Columbia, and the London School of Economics, she spent a decade on Wall Street advising on information analytics. A thought leader in AI, Dr. Khanna has been recognized as a groundbreaking entrepreneur by Forbes, named to Edelman’s Top 50 AI Creators (2025), and featured in Salesforce’s 16 AI Influencers to Know (2024). Committed to diversity in tech, she founded the charity 21C Girls, which taught thousands of students the basics of AI and coding in Singapore, and currently provides scholarships for mid-career women through her education company Amplify.
Ayesha sits down with Geoff to discuss how artificial intelligence is disrupting industries, reshaping the economy, and redefining the future of jobs. This conversation explores why critical thinking will be the most important skill in an AI-driven workplace, how businesses can use AI to scale innovation instead of getting stuck in “pilot purgatory,” and what risks organizations must prepare for, including bias, data poisoning, cybersecurity threats, and manipulative reasoning models. Ayesha shares insights from her work with governments and Fortune 500 companies on building national AI strategies, creating governance frameworks, and balancing innovation with responsibility. The conversation dives into how AI and jobs intersect, whether automation will replace or augment workers and why companies need to focus on growth, reskilling, and strategic automation rather than layoffs. They also discuss the rise of the Hybrid Age, where humans and AI coexist in every part of life, and what it means for society, relationships, and the global economy.
In this video:
00:00 Intro
00:43 The future of AI and the next 5 years
02:16 The biggest AI risks
05:25 Fake alignment & governance
09:08 Why AI pilots fail
15:30 What successful companies do
23:14 AI and jobs: Automation, reskilling, and why critical thinking matters most
29:39 The Hybrid Age
37:09 AI and society: relationships with AI, human agency, and ethical concerns
46:13 Global AI strategies
54:00 Overhyped narratives and what people get wrong about AI and jobs
56:27 The Skills Gap opportunity
58:31 The importance of risk frameworks, critical thinking, and optimism
Connect with Dr. Khanna
Website: https://www.ayeshakhanna.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayeshakhanna/
X: (21) Dr. Ayesha Khanna (@ayeshakhanna1) / X
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
Can automation and critical thinking coexist in the future of education and work?
Today on Digital Disruption, we’re joined by Bryan Walsh the Senior Editorial Director at Vox.
At Vox, Bryan leads the Future Perfect and climate teams and oversees the podcasts Unexplainable and The Gray Area. He also serves as editor of Vox’s Future Perfect section, which explores the policies, people, and ideas that could shape a better future for everyone. He is the author of End Times: A Brief Guide to the End of the World (2019), a book on existential risks including AI, pandemics, and nuclear war though, as he notes, it’s not all that brief. Before joining Vox, Bryan spent 15 years at Time magazine as a foreign correspondent in Hong Kong and Tokyo, an environment writer, and international editor. He later served as Future Correspondent at Axios. When he’s not editing, Bryan writes Vox’s Good News newsletter and covers topics ranging from population trends and scientific progress to climate change, artificial intelligence, and on occasion children’s television.
Bryan sits down with Geoff to discuss how artificial intelligence is transforming the workplace and what it means for workers, students, and leaders. From the automation of entry-level jobs to the growing importance of human-centered skills, Bryan shares his perspective on the short- and long-term impact of AI on the economy and society. He explains why younger workers may be hit hardest, how education systems must adapt to preserve critical thinking, and why both companies and governments face tough choices in managing disruption. This conversation highlights why adaptability and critical thinking are becoming the most valuable skills and what governments and organizations can do to reduce the social and economic strain of rapid automation.
In this video:
00:00 Intro
01:20 Early adoption of AI: Hype vs. reality
02:16 Automation pressures during economic downturns
03:08 The struggle for new grads entering the workforce
04:37 Is AI wiping out entry-level jobs?
05:40 Why younger workers may be hit hardest
06:28 No clear answers on AI disruption
08:19 The paradox of AI: productivity gains vs. job losses
14:30 Critical thinking, education, and the future of learning
18:00 How AI reshapes global power dynamics
31:57 The workplace of the future: skills that matter most
44:03 Regulation, politics, and the AI economy
48:19 AI, geopolitics, and risks of global instability
57:33 Who bears responsibility for minimizing disruption?
59:01 Rethinking identity beyond work
1:00:22 Journalism in the AI era: threat or amplifier?
Connect with Bryan:
Website: https://www.vox.com/authors/bryan-walsh
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-walsh-9881b0/
X: https://x.com/bryanrwalsh
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
Are we heading toward an AI-driven utopia, or just another tech bubble waiting to burst?
Today on Digital Disruption, we’re joined by Dr. Emily Bender and Dr. Alex Hanna.
Dr. Bender is a Professor of Linguistics at the University of Washington where she is also the Faculty Director of the Computational Linguistics Master of Science program and affiliate faculty in the School of Computer Science and Engineering and the Information School. In 2023, she was included in the inaugural Time 100 list of the most influential people in AI. She is frequently consulted by policymakers, from municipal officials to the federal government to the United Nations, for insight into how to understand so-called AI technologies.
Dr. Hanna is Director of Research at the Distributed AI Research Institute (DAIR) and a Lecturer in the School of Information at the University of California Berkeley. She is an outspoken critic of the tech industry, a proponent of community-based uses of technology, and a highly sought-after speaker and expert who has been featured across the media, including articles in the Washington Post, Financial Times, The Atlantic, and Time.
Dr. Bender and Dr. Hanna sit down with Geoff to discuss the realities of generative AI, big tech power, and the hidden costs of today’s AI boom. Artificial Intelligence is everywhere but how much of the hype is real, and what’s being left out of the conversation? This discussion dives into the social and ethical impacts of AI systems and why popular AI narratives often miss the mark. Dr. Bender and Dr. Hanna share their thoughts on the biggest myths about generative AI and why we need to challenge them and the importance of diversity, labor, and accountability in AI development. They’ll answer questions such as where AI is really heading and how we can imagine better, more equitable futures and what technologists should be focusing on today.
In this video:
0:00 Intro
1:45 Why language matters when we talk about “AI”
4:20 The problem with calling everything “intelligence”
7:15 How AI hype shapes public perception
10:05 Separating science from marketing spin
13:30 The myth of AGI: Why it’s a distraction
16:55 Who benefits from AI hype?
20:20 Real-world harms: Bias, surveillance & labor exploitation
24:10 How data is extracted & who pays the price
28:40 The invisible labor behind AI systems
32:15 Diversity, power, and accountability in AI
36:00 Why focusing on “doom scenarios” misses the point
39:30 AI in business and risks leaders should actually care about
43:05 What policymakers should prioritize now
47:20 The role of regulation in responsible AI
50:10 Building systems that serve people, not profit
53:15 Advice for CIOs and tech leaders
55:20 Gen AI in the workplace
Connect with Dr. Bender and Dr. Hanna
Website: https://thecon.ai/authors/
Dr. Bender LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ebender/
Dr. Hanna LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-hanna-ph-d/
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
What does the future of AI assistants look like and what’s still missing?
Today on Digital Disruption, we’re joined by Adam Cheyer, Co-Founder of Siri.
Adam is an inventor, entrepreneur, engineering executive, and a pioneer in AI and computer human interfaces. He co-founded or was a founding member of five successful startups: Siri (sold to Apple, where he led server-side engineering and AI for Siri), Change.org (the world’s largest petition platform), Viv Labs (acquired by Samsung, where he led product engineering and developer relations for Bixby), Sentient (massively distributed machine learning), and GamePlanner.AI (acquired by Airbnb, where he served as VP of AI Experience). Adam has authored more than 60 publications and 50 patents. He graduated with highest honors from Brandeis University and received the “Outstanding Masters Student” award from UCLA’s School of Engineering.
Adam sits down with Geoff to discuss the evolution of conversational AI, design principles for next-generation technology, and the future of human–machine interaction. They explore the future of AI, augmented reality, and collective intelligence. Adam shares insider stories about building Siri, working with Steve Jobs, and why today’s generative AI tools like ChatGPT are both amazing and frustrating. Adam also shares his predictions for the next big technological leap and how collective intelligence could transform how we solve humanity’s most difficult challenges.
In this video:
0:00 Intro
1:08 Why today’s AI both amazes and frustrates
3:50 The 3 big missing pieces in current AI systems
8:28 What Siri got right and what it missed
11:30 The “10+ Theory”: Paradigm shifts in computing
14:18 Augmented Reality as the next big breakthrough
19:43 Design lessons from building Siri
25:00 Iteration vs. first impressions: How to launch transformational products
30:20 Beginner, intermediate, and expert user experiences in AI
33:40 Will conversational AI become like “Her”?
35:45 AI maturity compared to the early internet
37:34 Magic, technology, and creating “wow” moments
43:55 What’s hype vs. what’s real in AI today
47:01 Where the next magic will happen: AR & collective intelligence
50:51 The role of DARPA, Stanford, and government funding in Siri’s success
54:49 Advice for leaders building the future of digital products
57:13 Balance the hype
Connect with Adam:
Website: http://adam.cheyer.com/site/home?page=about
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamcheyer/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/acheyer
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
Check out other episodes of Digital Disruption: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIImliNP0zfxRA1X67AhPDJmlYWcFfhDT&feature=shared
Are we ready for a future where human and machine intelligence are inseparable?
Today on Digital Disruption, we’re joined by best-selling author and founding partner of digital strategy firm, Future Point of View (FPOV), Scott Klososky .
Scott’s career has been built at the intersection of technology and humanity; he is known for his visionary insights into how emerging technologies shape organizations and society. He has advised leaders across Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, and professional associations, guiding them in integrating technology with strategic human effort. A sought-after speaker and author of four books—including Did God Create the Internet? Scott continues to help executives around the world prepare for the digital future.
Scott sits down with Geoff to discuss the cutting edge of human-technology integration and the emergence of the "organizational mind." What happens when AI no longer supports organizations but becomes a synthetic layer of intelligence within them? He talks about real-world examples of this transformation already taking place, reveals the ethical and existential risks AI poses, and offers practical advice for business and tech leaders navigating this new era. This conversation dives deep into autonomous decision-making to AI regulation and digital governance, and Scott breaks down the real threats of digital reputational damage, AI misuse, and the growing surveillance culture we’re all a part of.
In this episode:
00:00 Intro
00:24 What is an ‘Organizational Mind?’
03:44 How fast is this becoming real?
05:00 Early insights from building an organizational mind
07:02 The human brain analogy: AI mirrors us
08:12 What does it mean for AI to “wake up”?
09:51 AI awakening without consciousness
11:03 Should we be worried about conscious AI?
11:59 Accidents, bad actors, and manipulation
15:42 Can we prevent these AI risks?
18:28 Regulatory control and the role of governments
20:03 Cat and Mouse: Can AI hide from auditors?
23:02 The escalating complexity of AI threats
27:00 Will nations have organizational minds?
29:12 Autonomous collaboration between AI nations
35:36 Bringing AI tools together
36:31 Knowledge, agents, personas & oversight
40:11 Why early adopters will have the edge
41:00 Are we in another AI bubble?
45:01 Scott’s advice for business & tech leaders
47:12 Why use-cases alone aren’t enough
Connect with Scott:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottklososky/
X: https://x.com/sklososky
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
Is this a wake-up call for anyone who believes the dangers of AI are exaggerated?
Today on Digital Disruption, we’re joined by Roman Yampolskiy, a leading writer and thinker on AI safety, and associate professor at the University of Louisville. He was recently featured on podcasts such as PowerfulJRE by Joe Rogan.
Roman is a leading voice in the field of Artificial Intelligence Safety and Security. He is the author of several influential books, including AI: Unexplainable, Unpredictable, Uncontrollable. His research focuses on the critical risks and challenges posed by advanced AI systems. A tenured professor in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at the University of Louisville, he also serves as the founding director of the Cyber Security Lab.
Roman sits down with Geoff to discuss one of the most pressing issues of our time: the existential risks posed by AI and superintelligence. He shares his prediction that AI could lead to the extinction of humanity within the next century. They dive into the complexities of this issue, exploring the potential dangers that could arise from both AI’s malevolent use and its autonomous actions. Roman highlights the difference between AI as a tool and as a sentient agent, explaining how superintelligent AI could outsmart human efforts to control it, leading to catastrophic consequences. The conversation challenges the optimism of many in the tech world and advocates for a more cautious, thoughtful approach to AI development.
In this episode:
00:00 Intro
00:45 Dr. Yampolskiy's prediction: AI extinction risk
02:15 Analyzing the odds of survival
04:00 Malevolent use of AI and superintelligence
06:00 Accidental vs. deliberate AI destruction
08:10 The dangers of uncontrolled AI
10:00 The role of optimism in AI development
12:00 The need for self-interest to slow down AI development
15:00 Narrow AI vs. Superintelligence
18:30 Economic and job displacement due to AI
22:00 Global competition and AI arms race
25:00 AI’s role in war and suffering
30:00 Can we control AI through ethical governance?
35:00 The singularity and human extinction
40:00 Superintelligence: How close are we?
45:00 Consciousness in AI
50:00 The difficulty of programming suffering in AI
55:00 Dr. Yampolskiy’s approach to AI safety
58:00 Thoughts on AI risk
Connect with Roman:
Website: https://www.romanyampolskiy.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/romanyam/
X: https://x.com/romanyam
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
As AI becomes more capable, how should our social systems evolve in response?
Today on Digital Disruption, we’re joined once again by Zack Kass, an AI futurist and former Head of Go-To-Market at OpenAI. As a leading expert in applied AI, he harnesses its capabilities to develop business strategies and applications that enhance human potential.
Zack has been at the forefront of AI and played a key role in early efforts at commercializing AI and large language models, channeling OpenAI’s innovative research into tangible business solutions. Today, Zack is dedicated to guiding businesses, nonprofits, and governments through the fast-changing AI landscape. His expertise has been highlighted in leading publications, including Fortune, Newsweek, Entrepreneur, and Business Insider.
Zack sits down with Geoff to explore the philosophical implications of AI and its impact on everything from nuclear war to society’s struggle with psychopaths and humanity itself. This conversation raises important questions about the evolving role of AI in shaping our world and the ethical considerations that come with it. Zack discusses how AI may empower low-resource bad actors, transform local communities, and influence future generations. The episode touches on a wide range of themes, including the meaning of life, AI’s role in global conflict, its effects on personal well-being, and the societal challenges it presents. This conversation isn’t just about AI, it’s about humanity’s ongoing exploration of fear, freedom, happiness, and the future.
In this episode:
00:00 Intro
00:21 AI's exponential growth and speed of change
02:03 The expanding scientific frontier
03:19 Roger Bannister effect and AI inspiration
04:00 Societal vs. technological thresholds
06:00 The danger of low-resource bad actors
09:00 Psychopaths, crime, and the role of policy
12:00 Freedom vs. security
14:45 The risk of bias and broken justice systems
18:00 The role of AI in decision-making
20:00 Why we tolerate human error but not machine error
20:36 Breaking the fear cycle in a negative attention economy
22:12 Tech-driven optimism
23:55 Finding Happiness
25:32 Community, nature, and meaningful human connection
27:00 The problem with the “more is more” mindset
28:30 Narratives, new media, and information overload
31:09 The Power of local change and good news
33:06 Gen Z, Gen Alpha, and the next wave of innovation
Connect with Zack:
Website: https://zackkass.com/
X: https://x.com/iamthezack
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zackkass/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ @ZackKassAI
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
What role should government, regulation, and society play in the next chapter of Big Tech and AI.
Today on Digital Disruption, we’re joined by Pulitzer Prize–winning investigative reporter, Gary Rivlin.
Gary has been writing about technology since the mid-1990s and the rise of the internet. He is the author of AI Valley and 9 previous books, including Saving Main Street and Katrina: After the Flood. His work has appeared in the New York Times, Newsweek, Fortune, GQ, and Wired, among other publications. He is a two-time Gerald Loeb Award winner and former reporter for the New York Times. He lives in New York with his wife, theater director Daisy Walker, and two sons.
Gary sits down with Geoff to discuss the unchecked power of Big Tech and the evolving role of AI as a political force. From the myth of the benevolent tech founder to the real-world implications of surveillance, misinformation, and election interference, he discusses the dangers of unregulated tech influence on policy and the urgent need for greater transparency, ethical responsibility, and accountability in emerging technologies. This conversation highlights the role of venture capital in fueling today’s tech giants, what history tells us about the future of digital disruption, and whether regulation can truly govern AI and platform power.
In this episode:
00:00 Intro
02:45 The early promise of Silicon Valley
06:30 What changed in tech: From innovation to power
10:55 The role of venture capital in shaping Big Tech
15:40 Tech disruption vs. systemic control
20:15 The shift from public good to private gain
24:50 How Big Tech wields power over democracy
29:30 Can AI be regulated in time?
33:45 Lessons from tech history
38:20 Government’s role in tech oversight
43:05 Gary’s thoughts on tech accountability
47:30 Future risks of an unchecked tech industry
51:10 Hope for the next generation of innovators
55:00 Tech is at the center of politics
58:00 What should change?
1:09:00 Journalists using AI are more powerful
Connect with Gary:
Website: https://garyrivlin.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-rivlin/
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
In a world of rising cyber threats, what keeps the CIA’s former head of cybersecurity up at night?
Today on Digital Disruption, we’re joined by Andy Boyd, former Head of the CIA’s Center for Cyber Intelligence.
Andy was a Senior Intelligence Service officer in the Central Intelligence Agency’s Directorate of Operations (DO). His most recent assignment was Director of the CIA’s Center for Cyber Intelligence (CCI) which is responsible for intelligence collection, analysis, and operations focused on foreign cyber threats to US interests. Andy has experience leading worldwide intelligence operations and has in-depth knowledge of geopolitics, cyber operations, security practices, and risk mitigation.
Andy sits down with Geoff to discuss the future of cybersecurity in a rapidly evolving digital world. With decades of experience in cyber intelligence, Andy explains how global threats are evolving, from traditional espionage to AI-driven cyberattacks and disinformation. He dives into how intelligence agencies like the CIA assess and respond to state-sponsored cyber threats from China and Russia, and why the private sector is now a primary target. Andy breaks down how emerging technologies like generative AI are changing both offensive and defensive cyber strategies, and what this means for governments, businesses, and people. Andy also shares how one of the world’s leading professional services firms is navigating this new landscape, using culture, data, and innovation to stay ahead of cyber risks.
In this episode:
00:00 Intro
02:45 What the CIA's Cyber Intelligence Center actually does
05:30 Leading transformation across a global enterprise
07:20 Evolution of cyber threats from nation-states
08:15 Building trust and transparency with business stakeholders
11:10 The critical role of data in decision-making
13:00 How the CIA detects and responds to cyber attacks
17:05 Creating a culture of innovation and adaptability
17:45 The private sector as a frontline target
20:40 How Aon is approaching talent and upskilling
23:10 Offensive cyber operations: how far should the U.S. go?
27:30 Key leadership lessons and advice for future CIOs
29:50 China's cyber capabilities vs. Russia's tactics
35:25 The role of intelligence in election security
40:50 Why disinformation is more dangerous than hacking
45:30 How AI is transforming cyber espionage
50:10 What keeps Andy Boyd up at night
54:40 The importance of public awareness and resilience
Connect with Andy:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-g-boyd-12194673/
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
What if you could control technology using only your thoughts?
Today on Digital Disruption, we’re joined by an expert in the space of Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs), Tan Le.
Tan is the founder and CEO of EMOTIV, a Silicon Valley-based company pioneering EEG-based BCI technology. Her work centers on non-invasive “brainwear” that enables direct interaction between the human brain and computers. Tan is an advocate for democratizing neurotechnology to empower individuals, researchers, and organizations to drive innovation. In February 2020, she published her first book, The NeuroGeneration: The New Era of Brain Enhancement Revolutionizing the Way We Think, Work and Heal.
Tan sits down with Geoff to talk about how her company is making it possible to connect your brain directly to digital systems, no hype, just science. From decoding mental commands to enhancing human cognition, they dive into the ethical challenges of reading brain data, what it really means to give technology access to your mind, and why non-invasive headsets are reshaping human-computer interaction.
In this episode:
00:00 Intro
03:00 Tan Le’s background
06:00 What is Brain-Computer Interface (BCI)?
09:00 The current state of BCI in 2025
12:00 Non-invasive vs. implantable tech
15:00 How BCIs read brain signals
18:00 Real-world applications: Healthcare and beyond
21:00 Consumer use cases and accessibility
24:00 The role of AI in brain signal interpretation
27:00 Ethics of brain data and consent
30:00 Mental wellness and performance insights
33:00 Government and regulatory perspectives
36:00 EMOTIV’s vision and tech stack
39:00 Human enhancement and neuroplasticity
42:00 Risks and misconceptions around BCI
45:00 Collaborations and research partnerships
48:00 Global adoption trends
51:00 Tan Le’s advice to future innovators
54:00 Predictions for the next 10 years
Connect with Tan:
Website: https://www.emotiv.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanle/
X: https://x.com/TanTTLe
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
What if your data worked for you and not the platforms controlling it?
Today on Digital Disruption, we’re joined by John Bruce, CEO and Co-Founder of Inrupt.
With a background as both a founder and an executive at global tech firms, John Bruce is uniquely qualified to help engineer the next phase of the web alongside his co-founder Sir Tim Berners-Lee. He brings to bear decades of successful business leadership and experience creating new markets around innovative software. Prior to partnering with Tim, he was the co-founder and CEO of Resilient, now an IBM company, that developed a new approach to cybersecurity. Through Resilient and four other successful startups, John has experienced first-hand the strategic challenges that the current structure of the web causes for users, developers, and organizations around the world.
John Bruce sits down with Geoff Nielson to talk about a future where individuals and not platforms own their data. John shares how AI, consent-driven data sharing, and a decentralized digital wallet called, Charlie could fundamentally reshape how we interact with technology, institutions, and each other. He explains why we must reclaim personal data from tech giants and what “agentic wallets” are and how they work.
In this video:
0:00 Intro
1:25 Rebuilding the Web
3:30 From Tim Berners-Lee to today
5:10 Data ownership vs. data surveillance
7:00 Moving from platforms to people
9:15 What Is an Agentic AI wallet?
11:00 Why consent must be baked into AI and data flows
13:45 Use cases in healthcare, government & enterprise
16:10 “Decentralized” doesn’t mean disorganized
18:30 What leaders get wrong about data control
20:45 Enterprise integration
23:00 The ROI of giving users control of their own data
25:30 Why this moment feels like the early days of the web
27:00 What’s next for Inrupt, Solid, and the Internet itself
29:00 How We rebuild digital trust
31:00 Inrupt's vision beyond 2030
34:00 Partnering with institutions to scale Solid
37:00 Global digital identity and governance challenges
40:00 Building public trust in data ecosystems
43:00 A non-linear view of it all
Connect with John:
Website: https://www.inrupt.com/about
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnwbruce/
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
Is your business ready for a world where AI agents act, adapt, and make decisions for you?
Today on Digital Disruption, we’re joined by Global Chief AI Engineer at PwC, Scott Likens.
Scott Likens serves as the Chief AI Engineer at PwC, overseeing both the Global and U.S. teams. He leads the AI Engineering and Emerging Technology R&D groups, driving the firm’s strategy across AI, blockchain, VR, quantum computing, and other disruptive technologies. With over 30 years of experience in emerging tech, Scott has helped clients across industries transform their customer experience, digital strategy, and operations. He began his career in software engineering during the early days of the internet, working with major multinationals to apply a localized lens to global digital and innovation trends. Scott’s diverse technical background spans advanced analytics, digital architecture, AI engineering, and innovation. During his time at PwC, he has lived and worked in both China and the U.S., serving as a global technology leader and advisor to key clients. He is a regular speaker at international conferences on emerging technologies, including AI and generative AI, blockchain and crypto, IoT, quantum computing, and advanced robotics.
Scott Likens sits down with Geoff Nielson for a look into what’s actually happening across the front lines of AI and innovation. Scott shares insights from the edge of tech, from AI agents and embodied intelligence to quantum computing and synthetic identities. He explains why most enterprise AI efforts fail to scale, how to think in innovation “horizons,” and what separates real value from hype. He touches on many topics including, how holographic AI and digital twins are already reshaping communication and the skills, and structures shaping the IT organization of the future.
In this video:
0:00 Intro
1:55 GenAI hype vs. real Value in the enterprise
4:20 Embodied AI and the rise of holographic humans
6:00 Multilingual synthetic avatars
7:30 Deepfakes, trust & the role of blockchain in authentication
9:00 Responsible AI
12:15 Innovation is moving faster than trust
14:00 Speed or scale?
16:00 Defining true innovation vs. incremental tech
18:00 A Framework for emerging tech
20:30 From quantum to satellites: What’s next
23:00 Digital Twins, IoT, and Bipedal Robotics
25:30 AI at the edge
28:45 AI agents in action
30:20 Legacy system modernization without rewriting code
34:00 Enterprise use cases
36:30 What business leaders get wrong about tech
39:00 Moving from pilot projects to organization-wide impact
42:30 Balancing speed, risk & innovation in enterprise ai
44:00 How PwC enables innovation without losing control
47:00 Why “waiting” is not an ai strategy
48:15 The most important investment is your workforce
50:00 Upskilling, hiring, and culture shift at scale
52:00 Quantum, cryptography & the real threat timeline
54:30 What’s next for leaders and innovators
Connect with Scott:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottlikens/
X: https://x.com/ScottLikens
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
Is the Metaverse dead? Why is #OpenAI building jewelry? What happens when AI becomes more emotionally present than people?
Today on Digital Disruption, we’re joined by CEO of Future Dynamics and author, Cathy Hackl.
Cathy is a globally recognized tech and gaming executive, futurist, and keynote speaker specializing in spatial computing, AI, virtual worlds, and gaming platform strategy. She is the co-CEO of Future Dynamics, a spatial computing and AI solutions firm, and a top LinkedIn tech voice. Known as the “Godmother of the Metaverse,” she created the Tech Intimacy Scale and is currently researching the intersection of AI, love, and relationships. Cathy has held leadership roles at Amazon Web Services, Magic Leap, and HTC VIVE, and has guided major brands like Nike, Walmart, Ralph Lauren, Louis Vuitton, and Clinique through their emerging tech and gaming strategies. She has spoken at events hosted by Harvard Business School, MIT, CES, SXSW, and the World Economic Forum. Named one of Ad Age’s Leading Women of 2023 and featured on Forbes Latam’s cover for its 100 Most Powerful Women issue, Hackl is also listed among Vogue Business's 100 Innovators. She hosts Adweek’s TechMagic podcast and contributes to Vogue Singapore. In 2022, she made history as the first human to ring the NASDAQ opening bell both physically and in avatar form on live TV.
Cathy Hackl sits down with Geoff Nielson for an honest conversation about where technology is headed and what’s really happening with spatial computing, AI hardware, and the future of human connection. Cathy unpacks the evolution of the metaverse and why she believes we’re moving toward something bigger: the spatial web. She shares her first-hand experience with Google Beam, a revolutionary 3D communication technology that doesn’t require a headset. This episode dives into OpenAI’s push into hardware, why it’s a data play, and what that means for your privacy. Emotional technologies like Apple Vision Pro and what they mean for memory, grief, and connection, and the future of dating and relationships in a world filled with AI agents and romantic chatbots.
In this episode:
0:00 Intro
1:00 Is the Metaverse dead or just renamed?
3:00 Google Beam: 3D communication without a headset
5:00 The Apple moment: reaching for a virtual object
7:00 Dating, job interviews & presence in 3D
9:00 Will this replace video calls?
11:00 Apple vision pro
13:00 Memory preservation & future family photos
15:00 OpenAI’s hardware push
17:00 AI Agents and who controls your data
20:00 From ChatGPT to therapy bots
22:00 Emotional manipulation, mental health & ai advice
24:00 Who owns the virtual air around you?
27:00 Virtual real estate, annotations & air rights
30:00 The battle for our senses
35:00 Tech that arrived too early
37:00 Why dating in 2D doesn’t work in a 3D world
39:00 Spatial computing in creative industries
41:00 Where tech meets intimacy, memory & legacy
44:00 The real use case: Human connection
47:00 The future of emotional presence and what’s at stake
49:00 Getting It Right Matters
Connect with Cathy:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathyhackl/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cathyhackl/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HacklCathy
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
Can generative AI help us close the gap between expertise and access?
This week on a special episode of Digital Disruption, we're joined by New York Times best-selling author Malcolm Gladwell, recorded live in Las Vegas at Info-Tech Research Group's LIVE tech conference.
Malcolm Gladwell is the author of eight New York Times bestsellers, including his latest, Revenge of the Tipping Point. Named one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People and one of Foreign Policy’s Top Global Thinkers, he is renowned for his unique perspective on the forces shaping human behavior and society. An extraordinary speaker, Gladwell combines eloquence, warmth, and humor to both entertain and challenge audiences. Through masterful storytelling, he unpacks complex and often misunderstood ideas, from decision-making in Blink and the roots of success in Outliers, to our underestimation of adversity in David and Goliath, and the missteps we make when interacting with strangers in Talking to Strangers.
Malcolm Gladwell sits with Geoff Nielson for an engaging conversation on the future of AI, the power of storytelling, and the evolving forces that shape society. From AI’s role in closing the expertise gap to how unexpected narratives drive lasting cultural change, Gladwell offers his signature perspective: thoughtful, contrarian, and always surprising. He talks about why the most transformative uses of AI may be the simplest, how generative tools can elevate human capability, and why culture never changes in ways we expect. Malcolm provides insight into how the media, brands and politics are changing and what that could mean for leadership, while touching on the surprising truth about misinformation, expertise, and AI as a corrective tool.
In this episode:
0:00 Intro
0:24 AI's biggest promise? Strengthening weak links
1:33 AI in developing vs developed countries
2:12 Should AI replace or empower teachers?
3:13 Closing the expertise gap with AI
4:18 AI as a safe place to learn without embarrassment
5:08 The human side of AI
5:32 AI in surprising places
6:15 Malcolm’s personal use of AI
7:57 Where Malcolm finds ideas and why AI can’t replicate them
9:52 Why creativity can’t be automated
12:42 Will AI ever replace storytellers and thinkers?
14:24 Paul Simon’s genius explained
17:27 What makes a great story? Tesla example
22:26 Are people the new brand? Apple vs Chevy
25:13 The power of "overstories" in shaping behavior
26:57 We live in multiple narratives at once
29:26 Can organizational culture be changed?
30:37 How cultural narratives evolve
31:37 Politics, power, and social media’s new role
35:07 We’re still figuring out what tech is for
38:10 Why AI disruption might not be as bad as we fear
39:34 Is Malcolm an optimist or just realistic?
41:22 Can AI restore trust in expertise?
43:43 The power of narrative over facts
44:15 Poking the bear
Connect with Malcolm:
Website: https://www.gladwellbooks.com/
X: https://x.com/Gladwell
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/malcolmgladwell/
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
Can your organization survive its own hesitation to take bold bets?
Today on Digital Disruption, we’re joined by former Amazon exec and bestselling author, John Rossman.
John is an author, business advisor, and keynote speaker. He was an early Amazon executive who played a key role in launching the Amazon marketplace business in 2002. He has served as the senior technology advisor at the Gates Foundation and senior innovation advisor at T-Mobile. His books include “The Amazon Way” and “Think Like Amazon.” His new book, Big Bet Leadership: Your Transformation Playbook for Winning in the Hyper-Digital Era, is an actionable guide for leaders who want to succeed in complex transformations.
John sits down with Geoff to unpack why most change initiatives fall short, and what leaders can do to shift the odds in their favor. Looking back on his experience launching Amazon Marketplace and advising top organizations, he shares strategies for scaling effectively, leading through change, and building resilience in today’s digital environment. John explains why traditional transformation efforts often fail, the issues leaders come across, and how to adopt a system of risk-smart decision-making and drive meaningful change. Get ready to challenge assumptions, cut through the hype, and transform the way you lead.
In this episode:
00:00 Intro
01:07 Solving hard problems with an integrated mindset
03:07 Why most companies struggle with change
04:21 The 3 megatrends disrupting business
06:32 Why Back-office productivity must change
07:22 Why Past winners are at risk of losing
09:36 Why big bets often fail
13:30 The three habits of big bet leaders
16:42 Why innovation labs often fail
21:39 Why leaders must design decision points intentionally
25:03 The power of a clear “Big Bet Vector”
31:27 What extreme accountability really means
36:08 Should we abandon silos?
40:25 Advice for how CIOs can unlock progress despite technical debt
46:08 How CIOs can win
51:55 Why Change can’t just be an operator’s job
53:01 The Big Bet Playbook explained
56:27 Active skepticism
Website: https://johnrossman.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-rossman/
X: https://x.com/johnerossman
Connect with John:
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
What if the biggest threat to progress isn’t technology?
Today on Digital Disruption, we’re joined by Tom Goodwin, Co-Founder of All We Have Is Now.
Tom Goodwin is a four-time LinkedIn “#1 Voice in Marketing.” He is also the Co-Founder of, All We Have Is Now, a digital transformation consultancy helping businesses harness emerging technologies. A sought-after speaker, writer, and advisor, Tom also hosts The Edge, a tech-focused TV series, and My Wildest Prediction, a podcast with Euronews. In 2021 Tom published the second edition of his book “Digital Darwinism” with Kogan Page, in 2023 Tom launched a comprehensive online Digital Transformation course, and has now spoken in over 100 cities in 50 countries around the world.
Tom sits down with Geoff to share his perspective on the evolving digital landscape and how to cut through the noise especially around AI, digital transformation, and innovation — to focus on what truly matters for organizations today. He argues that in a time of rapid technological change, the smartest move may be to slow down, ignore the hype, and prioritize people, processes, and a long-term strategic vision. Tom urges leaders to think critically, stay grounded in fundamentals, and embrace thoughtful, human-centered progress over flashy solutions.
In this video:
00:00 Intro
01:11 Why tech hype needs a reality check
02:06 What actually matters in 2025
03:04 Business first, not tech first
04:11 Why not every company needs to chase every trend
05:16 The problem with constant agility
07:13 Why disruption isn’t always real
10:18 Are we avoiding hard truths about our business models?
12:12 Who wins: legacy companies or startups?
15:28 Will AI-native companies dominate?
17:09 Why real change still takes time
19:07 Hype vs. reality in AI adoption
22:47 Technology adoption is slower than you think
24:02 Advice to leaders on using AI strategically
26:44 Why short-term thinking is overrated
29:05 Planning for what really matters
31:00 A better approach to technology prioritization
33:18 Why digital transformation usually fails
34:49 The Heathrow metaphor: patchwork vs. reinvention
39:06 The promise of AI for real reinvention
42:20 Are IT leaders being left behind?
44:00 Why the CTO must be more strategic
47:03 What it takes to lead digital transformation
48:22 Why we need more ambitious use of existing tech
50:01 Tom’s book: Digital Darwinism
51:40 What happens when AI becomes invisible tech
53:13 We need clearer conversations around AI
Connect with Tom:
Website: https://www.tomgoodwin.co/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomfgoodwin/
X: https://x.com/tomfgoodwin
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
Is AI coming for your job, or just the parts that you hate doing?
Today on Digital Disruption, we’re joined by Rory Richardson, Director of Go-To-Market for Generative AI at Amazon Web Services (AWS).
With over a decade of experience at AWS, she has been instrumental in launching and scaling breakthrough technologies, including non-relational databases and serverless computing. Rory has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of cloud development through her strategic leadership in go-to-market initiatives, empowering developers to expand the boundaries of what’s possible in the cloud. Driven by a passion for innovation, her current focus is on harnessing the potential of generative AI to transform developer tools, enabling more efficient, creative, and human-centered development processes.
Rory sits down with Geoff to explain how generative AI can supercharge the developer experience, helping teams write better code, faster, and with fewer headaches. She shares her perspective that AI isn’t about replacing people, but about helping us do less of what we dislike, and why embracing AI now is one of the smartest moves leaders can make.
Rory shares real-world examples from AWS, insights from developer culture, and a human-centered view on the rapidly changing AI landscape.
In this episode:
00:00 Intro
01:04 Recap of Info-Tech LIVE 2024 in Las Vegas
01:35 What’s new in AI & developer tools
02:53 The rise of AI-powered command line tools
03:32 Why Amazon is paying people to play
06:44 “Vibe Coding”
08:10 Differential equations & development tools
12:00 Risks of rapid AI adoption
13:32 What does coding look like in 2028?
16:20 Creativity, context-switching & grit
18:07 How play drives innovation
19:34 Teaching AI in schools
23:10 Is age the biggest barrier to AI adoption?
28:20 What should junior Devs expect?
30:38 Better AI boundaries
35:01 Will AI replace Developers?
37:25 Accelerating innovation, not replacing humans
42:24 Why AI works best on repetitive tasks
44:11 Let AI do the dishes, not the art
46:04 From Paris, Texas to Amazon Web Services
48:19 Everything is learnable
49:09 The grit factor
Connect with Rory:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roryr/
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
Is the real threat of AI the technology or the humans behind it?
Today on Digital Disruption, we’re joined by Mo Gawdat, former Chief Business Officer of Google X.
Mo is the host of the popular podcast Slo Mo: A Podcast with Mo Gawdat, and the author of several international bestsellers, including Solve for Happy, Scary Smart, That Little Voice in Your Head, and Unstressable. He is also the founder of One Billion Happy and currently serves as Chief AI Officer at Flight Story. With a 30-year career in tech, Mo has since shifted his focus to the pursuit of happiness and human well-being. He has extensively researched the science of happiness and engaged in conversations with some of the world’s leading thinkers. More recently, his work has centered on the urgent ethical and societal challenges posed by rapid advancements in artificial intelligence.
Mo sits down with Geoff for an unfiltered conversation on the future of humanity in the age of artificial intelligence. Mo explains that we’re living in the early stages of a technology-fueled dystopia, one that is driven not by AI itself, but by humans who shape it by greed, power, and unchecked capitalism. But he also shares a vision for a future of unprecedented abundance, one where AI could solve global challenges, from climate change to poverty, but only if we as humans embrace ethical design and mutual cooperation.
In this episode:
00:00 Intro
01:20 AI, geopolitics, and capitalism
03:05 Is the problem human nature or systems?
06:22 The coming age of abundant intelligence
08:13 AI’s dark side
13:15 Fear-driven ai development
17:10 Handing power to ai
19:14 Why superintelligent ai could save us
21:12 Can we avoid an ai Hiroshima moment?
25:30 Mutual prosperity or destruction
29:11 The age of machine supremacy
31:00 How to influence AI for good
33:12 AI reflects humanity
36:06 What AI is learning from us right now
40:06 Who thrives in the AI era
44:04 The rise of mind manipulation
47:02 How to stay critical in a world of deepfakes
49:12 Use AI to expand your thinking, not replace it
51:21 The leadership skills of the future
54:42 Collaborating with AI as team members
57:20 Will AI want to connect with us?
01:01:06 Could AI become conscious?
01:04:48 AI emotions and the next evolution of intelligence
01:06:32 The role of humans
Connect with Mo:
Website: https://www.mogawdat.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mogawdat/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/mogawdatofficial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mo_gawdat/
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mogawdat
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
Creativity is the key to staying competitive, so why do so many organizations struggle to innovate?
Today on Digital Disruption, we’re joined by Duncan Wardle, former Head of Innovation and Creativity at Disney.
Duncan and his team helped Imagineering, Lucasfilm, Marvel, Pixar, and Disney Parks to innovate, creating magical new storylines and experiences. Now a global keynote speaker and innovation advisor, he shares his unique Design Thinking approach to help organizations spark creativity, unlock fresh thinking, and embed innovation into their culture. A TED speaker and contributor to Fast Company, Forbes, and Harvard Business Review, Duncan also teaches innovation Master Classes at Yale, Harvard, and the University of Edinburgh.
Duncan sits down with Geoff to explore how businesses can break down the barriers to innovation by tapping into their most powerful resource: human imagination. Duncan gives a look into the magic of Disney’s approach to creativity and explains how companies can design cultures that foster curiosity, risk-taking, and collaboration. From solving complex problems with simple questions to creating space for disruptive thinking, Duncan shares practical, transformative advice for leaders ready to think boldly and challenge the current workplace roles.
In this episode:
0:00 Intro
2:00 Time at Disney
5:40 Creativity is now the most in-demand skill
8:15 Barriers to innovation
11:30 Tools for creative thinking
14:45 Reframing problems as innovation
18:10 The power of naïve experts
21:00 Innovation at Disney
25:50 Tips for embedding in any organization
29:00 How leaders can foster innovation
32:00 Tools to think differently
33:21 Overhyped tools
34:01 What’s different about Gen Z
36:03 Duncan’s mission to unlock creativity
39:03 Changing culture
Connect with Duncan:
Website: https://duncanwardle.com/
Twitter: https://x.com/duncanjwardle
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/duncanjwardle
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/duncanwardle/
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
With all the AI hype, is there still a place for humans in organizations?
Today on Digital Disruption, we’re joined by Jonathan Brill, the world’s top-ranked futurist by Forbes, advisor to Amazon, HP, Samsung, and an author.
Jonathan helps executives and audiences spot, prioritize, and act on the forces shaping the next five years — from AI to geopolitical disruption. As the former Global Futurist at HP and a board member of one of the world’s largest private intelligence agencies, he brings unique insights from decades of work in innovation, strategy, and emerging tech. His invention firms have developed over 325 products, generating more than $27 billion in revenue for clients like HP, Samsung, and Verizon. Jonathan is the author of Rogue Waves, praised by The Economist and Adam Grant, offering a practical framework for thriving through disruption. He shares his insights globally on stages like TED, at institutions like Harvard and CERN, and with media outlets including ABC, CNBC, and HBR.
Jonathan sits down with Geoff Nielson to explore what leaders need to do to survive and thrive through the next decade of accelerating technological disruption. They discuss why the traditional organizational model introduced in the railroad era is no longer equipped to handle the complexity of AI-powered transformation. Jonathan speaks on the concept of the "octopus organization," where intelligence, decision-making, and adaptability are distributed rather than centralized. He breaks down AI’s biggest shift not just in task automation, but in decision-making and organizational design and emphasizes the importance of psychological safety in successful AI adoption.
In this episode
0:00 Intro
1:14 Enterprise AI
2:47 Code and complexity
6:07 From Railroad Model to Octopus Organization
9:35 AI isn’t just automating work
12:03 Why CIOs must lead cultural change
18:28 Human intuition is still important
20:16 Four leadership traits for the AI era
25:32 Executional vs. strategic thinking in IT
29:39 The real value of coding in the future
35:16 AI’s superpowers
38:57 Human vs. machine
41:21 Specialists vs. generalists in an AI world
47:02 Optimism despite disruption
49:48 Governments will shape the pace of change
53:04 What’s the hype and what’s real?
58:19 Tech adoption is inevitable
Connect with Jonathan:
Website: https://www.jonathanbrill.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanbrill1/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@brill_jonathan
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
If you're not ready for the speed of change — you're already behind.
Today on Digital Disruption, we’re joined by Steve Brown, a leading voice in the field of artificial intelligence and a former executive at Google DeepMind and Intel.
Steve has delivered hundreds of engaging keynotes and AI innovation workshops across five continents. With over 25 years of experience in AI and emerging technologies, Steve helps organizations build winning strategies that drive innovation, boost productivity, and fuel growth. He has advised leading brands including Nike, JP Morgan, Samsung, Comcast, Audi, Bank of America, PepsiCo, and Disney. Steve is the co-founder of The Provenance Chain Network, a BCG Luminary, and an advisor to multiple AI startups. He has been featured on CNN, BBC, Bloomberg, Forbes, and The Wall Street Journal. His book, The Innovation Ultimatum, explores how six strategic technologies will reshape every business in the 2020s. He holds bachelor's and master's degrees in Micro-Electronic Systems Engineering from Manchester University and lives in Portland, Oregon.
Steve sits down with Geoff Nielson to explore how AI, robotics, and automation are reshaping business, education, and the future of work. Steve reflects on the six emerging technologies he forecasted in The Innovation Ultimatum, where he got it right, and what surprised him — from the power of process orchestration and the quiet rise of blockchain, to the next potential “ChatGPT moment.” Steve also shares a preview of his upcoming book, The AI Ultimatum, and what business leaders need to know now to stay relevant and human in an AI-powered economy.
In this episode:
0:00 Intro
0:42 Revisiting 2019's predictions
2:04 The Rise of process orchestration
3:11 Process orchestration
5:12 AI and sales enablement
6:33 Blockchain’s future
11:14 The mixed reality opportunity
13:49 What’s the next “ChatGPT moment”?
15:12 Robotics, Quantum & what's next
18:40 The real AI transformation opportunity
20:10 Top 3 areas where AI is impacting businesses
21:37 AI-enabled employee experiences
22:54 From lockdown to enablement
24:36 Getting started with AI transformation
28:01 Unexpected use cases
31:29 The education disruption is coming
36:20 Learn to get the most out of AI
37:48 How to become robot-proof
40:39 What gives life meaning
43:20 Creativity in the age of AI
45:42 The rise of one-person enterprise
49:19 Do we need AGI
50:50 Hype vs. reality
52:10 The AI Ultimatum
53:36 Speed of change
Connect with Steve:
Website: https://www.stevebrown.ai/about
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/futuresteve/
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
What does it really take to build a product-driven organization in the age of AI, and are organizations ready for what's coming next?
Today on Digital Disruption, we’re joined by Marty Cagan, product thought leader and founder of the Silicon Valley Product Group.
Before founding the Silicon Valley Product Group (SVPG) to focus on helping others build successful products through writing, speaking, advising, and coaching, Marty Cagan served as a product executive at some of the world’s most successful technology companies, including HP Labs, Netscape Communications, and eBay. Through his work with SVPG, Marty is a sought-after speaker at major conferences and leading companies around the world. He is also the author of three influential books: Inspired: How to Create Tech Products Customers Love, Empowered: Ordinary People, Extraordinary Products, and Transformed: Moving to the Product Operating Model.
Marty sits down with Geoff Nielson to discuss how generative AI is reshaping product management and why organizations need to rethink how they build and lead product teams. He outlines three key models of product management and explains how AI is disrupting each one differently. This conversation dives deep into modern product thinking, as Marty highlights what sets companies like Amazon, Apple, Tesla, and Netflix apart — emphasizing the importance of visionary leadership and product-centric thinking. Marty also gives a look into his latest book Transformed, which explains how even the most traditional organizations can adopt modern product practices.
In this episode:
00:00 Intro
00:30 How generative ai is shifting product roles
01:20 The 3 models of product management explained
03:00 Why product owner roles are most at risk
05:00 Upskilling in the world of AI
06:25 What execution roles must to learn
07:30 The Feature Team Model and its vulnerabilities
09:00 Top product companies getting it right
10:40 What great product leadership looks like
13:00 Bill Campbell’s coaching culture
15:10 Empowered engineers
17:00 The Steve Jobs myth
20:00 Product discovery at Apple explained
21:30 Executive resistance
23:00 Real-world case studies
25:35 The importance of pilot teams
29:00 From surviving to thriving with gen ai
30:30 The 3 Meta questions
33:00 Why transformation takes time
36:00 How to use pilot teams
39:00 The anti-patterns
42:30 Why coaching works better than consulting
45:00 Emerging tech
47:00 Crypto vs. Gen AI
48:00 Enterprise products work
51:00 Can the product model work in government?
Connect with Marty:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cagan/
Website: SVPG: Learn the Product Operating Model : Silicon Valley Product Group
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
Today on Digital Disruption, we’re joined by Ian Beacraft, Chief Futurist and Founder of Signal and Cipher.
He is one of the leading voices in AI and the future of work. As Chief Futurist and Founder of Signal and Cipher, Ian helps organizations become AI-ready through strategic workforce transformation, training, and innovation. Ian has advised top global brands including Samsung, Google, Microsoft, and Nike. A former agency executive, he now pioneers immersive presentations that bring AI and extended reality to life. Ian is also the co-owner of a production studio designing virtual worlds and the first person ever to host a news segment as a synthetic human, streaming to over 100 million devices around the world. A classically trained musician and passionate educator, he champions the responsible, creative use of emerging technologies—and remains an optimist about the future of humanity in a tech-driven world.
Ian sits down with Geoff Nielson to unpack the real impact of artificial intelligence on the workplace. They discuss why outdated leadership mindsets are more harmful than AI itself, how organizations must evolve beyond rigid roles and job descriptions, and why the future of work is less about replacing people and more about reshaping how we define value, productivity, and collaboration. Ian explains that it’s not about eliminating jobs, but about eliminating the artificial boundaries that confine people to specific roles within an organization.
In this episode:
0:00 Intro
0:45 The real threat is not AI, but outdated leadership
2:15 The era of unending exponential growth
4:30 AI is changing the definition of work
8:15 Where leaders should begin with AI
12:35 Using AI tools to align leadership team
15:30 What AI really needs to succeed
17:00 The loss of job descriptions
19:02 The shift in career thinking
21:50 Who’s at more risk – junior roles or long-time workers?
25:30 The future of work in practice
31:00 Digital Twins in the workplace
36:00 Build AI ready teams
41:00 Rethinking education
46:01 What role does Signal and Cipher play to help accelerate traditional enterprises
52:35 What’s next
58:00 Tracking innovation and adaptability
1:04:00 Building a future-ready organization
Connect with Ian:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianbeacraft/
X: https://x.com/Ianbcraft
Website: https://signalandcipher.com/
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
What if everything you thought you knew about AI was wrong?
Today on Digital Disruption, we’re joined by Dr. Michael Littman, Division Director for Information and Intelligent Systems at the National Science Foundation.
The Information and Intelligent Systems division is home to the programs and program officers that support researchers in artificial intelligence, human-centered computing, data management, and assistive technologies, as well as those exploring the impact of intelligent information systems on society. He is also University Professor of Computer Science at Brown University, where he studies machine learning and decision-making under uncertainty. He has earned multiple university-level awards for teaching and his research has been recognized with three best-paper awards and three influential paper awards. Littman is a Fellow of the Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence and the Association for Computing Machinery. Summer of 2025, he will become Brown University's inaugural Associate Provost for Artificial Intelligence.
Dr. Michael Littman sits down with Geoff Nielson to explore the misconceptions about AI, its real-world applications, and what the future holds. Dr. Littman challenges common fears about AI replacing humans, emphasizing the importance of human-AI collaboration rather than competition. He talks about ethical considerations, the evolution of AI decision-making, and the balance between automation and human oversight. They unpack what is next in the world of artificial intelligence and why understanding the technology's limitations is just as important as embracing its potential.
In this episode:
0:00 Intro
0:50 How AI technology has evolved
3:24 Is the public ready for AI
6:30 Sci-fi view of AI
7:46 The underlying fear
12:40 Society is adaptive
16:00 This current round of AI gives us new tools
20:15 New era of computer science
23:16 AI is creating new roles
27:25 The different kinds of education
32:40 Dissemination mechanism
34:36 How AI works as an organization
36:45 Importance of AI education
38:28 How the National Science Foundation supports AI research
43:23 What about AGI
48:27 Future predictions
52:34 The goal is to help organizations make the best use of this moment
54:00 AI in the 80s to now
Connect with Dr. Michael Littman:
Website: https://www.littmania.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-littman-b26351/
X: https://x.com/mlittmancs
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
The future of work is changing, and organizations will need to rethink what an “office” truly means.
Today on Digital Disruption, we’re joined by Daniel Pink, New York Times best-selling author and workplace expert.
Daniel Pink is the author of five New York Times bestsellers, including his latest, The Power of Regret: How Looking Backward Moves Us Forward. His other books include the New York Times bestsellers When and A Whole New Mind — as well as the #1 New York Times bestsellers Drive and To Sell is Human. Dan’s books have won multiple awards, have been translated into 46 languages, and have sold millions of copies around the world.
Daniel sat down with Geoff at Info-Tech LIVE 2024 in Las Vegas for an insightful conversation about the future of work — what’s next, what to expect, and where it’s all headed. Daniel shares his perspectives on the evolving world of work and the challenges leaders face in navigating uncertainty. He talks about the importance of experimenting with new approaches and discovering meaningful work. Dan challenges the notion that anyone has all the answers about the future of work and instead encourages leaders to try, learn, and adapt.
Interested in attending Info-Tech LIVE this year? We’re back in Vegas this June 10 - 12, and tickets are still available! Check the link to learn more. https://www.infotech.com/events/las-vegas-live-june-10-12-2025
In this episode:
0:00 Intro
0:25 Info-Tech LIVE 2025
1:51 Time of uncertainty
2:20: Fundamental questions about work and the ‘office’
5:32: The importance of making progress
5:52: Uncomfortable behaviors as leaders
7:45 Burnout
10:50 Entering a world of permanent hybrid
14:41: The power of regret
17:20 What is the new normal?
21:53 How are technological advancements shaping society
24:40 Things will get better
Connect with Daniel:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielpink/
Website: https://www.danpink.com/
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
Will AI be able to reconstruct lost memories?
Today on Digital Disruption, we’re joined by Pau Aleikum Garcia, media designer and founder of Domestic Data Streamers.
Pau is a media designer and the founder of Domestic Data Streamers, a Barcelona-based studio that has been creating immersive “info-experiences” and generative AI projects since 2013. His work spans over 45 countries, collaborating with institutions like the United Nations, Barcelona City Hall, and Citizen Lab. Pau is the chair of the Master in Data in Design program at ELISAVA University and is a guest lecturer at institutions including the School of Visual Arts (NY), the Hong Kong Design Institute, the Royal College of Art (London), and the Barcelona School of Economics. In 2021, he founded HeyHuman!, an artist residency program that merges music, journalism, and data to drive artistic research and social justice.
Pau sits down with Geoff to talk about how his organization is unlocking some of the most human experiences through synthetic memories. This initiative uses generative AI to recreate lost visual memories, particularly for refugees, migrants, and those affected by war or displacement.
They explain how AI is not just shaping the future but also helping to reclaim the past, as well as the conversation that led to the creation of this technology. They also discuss ethical considerations of working with vulnerable communities. The project is also being explored in dementia care, where AI-generated memories are being tested as a tool for reminiscence therapy.
In this episode:
0:00 Intro
0:52 What are synthetic memories?
2:18 The making of Domestic Data Steamers
3:39 Why images and physical spaces matter for cultural identity
5:00 Dystopian, futuristic idea
8:33 Working with migrant communities
9:47 Where this technology is being deployed
12:11 Low-cost and accessible technology
13:50 The importance of emotional connections
15:08 The images are artificially generated representations of memory vectors
17:30 Working with memories
21:40 Commercial interest
22:43 AI is never neutral
23:55 Skeptic reader
30:09 Understanding the data
34:14 The cost of corruption
36:37 How to stay informed
40:41 The future of AI is bright
44:20 Domestic Data Streamers and the many projects
48:30 Accomplishments and the future
Connect with Pau:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pauerrr/
Twitter: https://x.com/pau_aleikum
Website: https://www.domesticstreamers.com/
Visit our website: https://www.infotech.com/Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
A new era of intelligent technology is here.
Today on Digital Disruption, we’re joined by Ramin Hasani, co-founder and CEO of Liquid AI and a machine learning Scientist.
Ramin Hasani is the co-founder and CEO of Liquid AI and a machine learning scientist at MIT’s Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Lab (CSAIL). Previously, he was a Principal AI & ML Scientist at Vanguard and a Research Affiliate at MIT. His work focuses on robust deep learning and decision-making in complex dynamical systems. He earned his Ph.D. in Computer Science from Vienna University of Technology, with his research on Liquid Neural Networks receiving global recognition with numerous nominations and awards such as TÜV Austria Dissertation Award nomination in 2020, and HPC Innovation Excellence Award in 2022. Ramin is also a frequent TEDx speaker.
Ramin sits down with Geoff to share his new and unique approach to AI, inspired by biological and physical systems that could redefine how businesses use machine learning.
Ramin shares insights from biology, specifically the neural structures of simple organisms that have led to the development of Liquid Neural Networks (LNNs). Unlike traditional neural networks, LNNs use differential equations to model dynamic decision-making processes, making them more adaptable for real-world applications. They discuss the advantages of these approaches and the scaling of these models. They also talk about the future of AI and how it may not just be about bigger models but smarter, biologically inspired intelligence capable of transforming how we interact with technology today and into the future.
In this episode:
0:00 Intro
0:38 The story of Liquid AI technology
6:13 Transparent worm vs. traditional neural networks
14:15 Liquid AI’s mission to build powerful AI systems
18:12 Liquid AI will help you to develop the best kind ofmodels
20:03 Compelling use cases
22:12 Agentic behavior
26:30 The most surprising use cases
29:35 This is a better learning system
32:01 Efficiency of liquid foundation models as opposed toGPT
35:33 Is this tech ready for the market?
38:30 The ‘white box’ philosophy and how it works with this model
43:07 Where do you see this technology in 3 to 5 years?
44:40 Trusted and understandable technology
46:00 The new platform for AI that replaces it all
48:40 Is there a quantum play here?
51:05 Passion turned to reality
54:20 Cracked the equation
55:40 The future of intelligence
Connect with Ramin:
Website: https://www.raminhasani.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raminhasani/
Visit our website: Information Technology Research & IT Advisory Company | Info-Tech Research Group
Follow us on YouTube: Info-Tech Research Group - YouTube
Is adopting AI more about behavior than technology?
Today on Digital Disruption, we’re joined by Conor Grennan, Chief AI Architect at NYU Stern School of Business and a best-selling author.
At NYU Stern School of Business, Conor builds generative AI fluency across the institution. He is also CEO and Founder of AI Mindset, an AI consulting company that trains professionals, leaders and organizations on a new and effective framework for generative AI. Conor has worked with teams across industry, including OpenAI, McKinsey, NASA, Google, Amazon, and many more.
Conor sits down with Geoff to share his unconventional takes on successful change management in AI adoption. They discuss why integrating AI isn’t just about implementing new tools, it’s about changing behaviors, training senior leadership, adapting talent strategies, and redefining productivity.
He explains that AI adoption rates are low because AI itself doesn’t teach new skills but rather requires a change in behavior. Simply instructing employees to use AI isn’t enough; organizations need to recognize and address the psychological resistance to change.
In this episode:
0:00 Intro
0:21 The importance of AI adoption and change management
0:38 AI is not like normal technology
1:55 AI doesn’t require you to learn anything
3:05 Use cases don’t really work
5:22 Organizational use of AI for managers and leaders
7:12 Train senior leaders first
9:33 Do we need to separate the AI from the person?
10:03 Laws and limitations
12:33 Helping organizations understand AI
14:44 Who is going to win
17:49 Use AI as a tool to attract the best talent
19:42 The framework and how it works
23:40 The story of AI use cases
26:18 Is everyone struggling to adopt AI?
28:42 Are we playing catchup with technology forever?
30:55 How to drive AI adoption and understanding
34:33 The age of AI agents
37:13 The potential and possibilities
40:11 Two types of bubbles
43:58 The autonomous enterprise
47:03 Prompt engineering
Connect with Conor:
Website: https://www.ai-mindset.ai/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/conorgrennan_official/
X: https://x.com/conorgrennan
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/conorgrennan/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCS9HfvYleu3t8MDqsZr8lLA
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@conorgrennan_official
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
Are we on the verge of the most profound industrial revolution in human history?
Today on Digital Disruption, we’re joined by Zack Kass, an AI futurist and former Head of Go-To-Market at OpenAI. As a leading expert in applied AI, he harnesses its capabilities to develop business strategies and applications that enhance human potential.
Zack has been at the forefront of AI and played a key role in early efforts at commercializing AI and large language models, channeling OpenAI’s innovative research into tangible business solutions. Today, Zack is dedicated to guiding businesses, nonprofits, and governments through the fast-changing AI landscape. His expertise has been highlighted in leading publications, including Fortune, Newsweek, Entrepreneur, and Business Insider.
Zack sits down with Geoff Nielson to give the inside scoop on the future of AI and the broader impact of digital disruption. They discuss the future of work, how organizations need to respond to survive, and the human skills that will become increasingly valued. Zack describes this transformation as the next Renaissance.
In this episode:
0:00 Intro
0:44 The next Renaissance
1:47 First major expansion of human potential
2:58 The way we understand the universe is changing
4:31 Supercharging the experts
6:12 We will see the biggest changes in the next 50 to 100 years
7:42 Human social structure is potentially disruptive
10:03: Conflict
12:04 Facing the new normal
14:12: Future conflict between people and the state
15:15 The future of work is changing
23:06 Who are the new competitors?
25:35 AI on your device
27:18 Where the economy is going
28:56 The rise of passion projects
29:30 Disruption in the workforce
32:33 The Fortune 1000 heading towards dramatic change
35:36 T big negative space of AI
37:09 What AI is going to solve for and what it will not
40:30 Creating a humanistic place
44:11 Telling the story matters
48:46 The challenge
51:11 Technological hegemony and corporate greed
52:06 Building the future
Connect with Zack:
Website: https://zackkass.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zackkass
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ZackKassAI
Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfoTechRG
Which emerging technologies are most likely to collide – and what does this mean for the future?
Today on Digital Disruption, we are joined by Creative Technologist Taryn Southern, a pioneering storyteller known for her work at the intersection of emerging technology, creativity, and human potential.
Taryn’s journey with AI began in 2017 with a groundbreaking creative experiment—to compose an entire music album using artificial intelligence. The result, I AM AI, became one of the first AI-assisted pop albums and reached the Top 100 on the U.S. Radio Charts in 2018.
Taryn sits down with Geoff Nielson to reveal the overlooked, hair-raising technologies shaping our future—and why she’s optimistic about AI as a force for good.
What we talk about:
0:00 Intro
1:48 Hair-raising moments
3:08 Predictions
4:43 AI taking over creative tasks
9:09 Is using an AI tool more challenging than just doing it yourself?
11:35 Any one person can be a merchant
13:50 These organizations need to be on their toes
15:08 What role do major tech companies play
17:24 The algorithms
19:00 Trusting the tech companies
19:48 Where is this going
24:28 Impact on individual and collective well-being
26:06 What is the state of Neurotechnology
30:54 Brain computer interface and mass adoption
32:00 The scope of creativity is unlimited with BCI
33:32 Hair-raising moments
35:13 Will we lose a lot of human connection with AI?
36: 44 Your perfect reality
38:35 A better path to success
39:36 AI therapists?
Connect with Taryn:
Website: https://tarynsouthern.com/Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/tarynsouthern/
X: https://x.com/TarynSouthern
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tarynsouthern
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TarynSouthern
Follow us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/oKIgSAFcAkI
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