Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast

From Web Summit Lisbon, Somewhere on Earth explores how Poland is becoming Central Europe's tech hub. Meet the innovators behind AI-powered greenhouses, a nationwide mobile ID app, and a virtual fertility clinic—all transforming everyday life. Poland is rapidly growing as a tech hotspot, with startups raising €180M last year alone. Its skilled workforce, creative mindset, and engineering heritage are driving global expansion.  We hear about how AI is being used to optimize greenhouse growth, reducing water and energy use while boosting yields. Farmers can control everything via an app, making sustainable farming easier than ever.  The m-obywatel (mCitizen) app turns smartphones into digital IDs, streamlining government services for Poles across the globe. Upcoming EU interoperability could let citizens access services across Europe seamlessly.  And a virtual fertility clinic app uses AI and wearables to guide couples through diagnosis and treatment. Secure, personalized, and medically backed, it empowers informed decisions on reproductive health.  The show is presented by Ania Lichtarowicz from Web Summit in Lisbon. Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz  For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/  If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co   Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484    Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World   

From Web Summit's main stage to global expansion, discover how Poland became the undisputed tech heart of Central Europe. We explore the startups securing record funding and breaking into markets from the Middle East to the US. Join us as we uncover the story behind the boom.  

Recorded live at Web Summit Lisbon 2025, this episode of Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast captures the AI led future of work. Carrol Chang, CEO of Andela, Nico de Luis, COO & Co-Founder of Shakers and Petra Sundell, CEO and Founder of Upbeater tackle the big questions: How do we harness AI instead of fearing it? What does "AI fluency" truly mean? And how can leaders build resilient, global teams that are ready to collaborate with AI agents? This is a must-listen for anyone looking to navigate the next wave of technological change.The show is presented by Ania Lichtarowicz.Production Manager: Liz TuohyEditor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/Follow us on the socials:Join our Facebook groupInstagramBlueSky If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.coSend us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484 Find a Story + Make it News = Change the WorldLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Recorded live at Web Summit Lisbon 2025, this episode of Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast captures the AI led future of work. Carrol Chang, CEO of Andela, Nico de Luis, COO & Co-Founder of Shakers and Petra Sundell, CEO and Founder of Upbeater tackle the big questions: How do we harness AI instead of fearing it? What does "AI fluency" truly mean? And how can leaders build resilient, global teams that are ready to collaborate with AI agents? This is a must-listen for anyone looking to navigate the next wave of technological change. The show is presented by Ania Lichtarowicz. Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The future of work is shifting fast. In Episode 110, we explore how teams are evolving in an AI-driven world—becoming more global, more hybrid, and increasingly augmented by intelligent systems.Discover what it really means to build borderless, AI-ready teams, how roles are changing, why “AI fluency” goes far beyond using tools, and what skills will matter most in the months ahead. We also dive into the human side: the emotions, the adaptation, and the mindset needed to thrive in this new landscape.If you're curious about the next era of collaboration and how humans and AI can work together at scale, this episode is for you.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The future of work is shifting fast. In Episode 110, we explore how teams are evolving in an AI-driven world—becoming more global, more hybrid, and increasingly augmented by intelligent systems. Discover what it really means to build borderless, AI-ready teams, how roles are changing, why “AI fluency” goes far beyond using tools, and what skills will matter most in the months ahead. We also dive into the human side: the emotions, the adaptation, and the mindset needed to thrive in this new landscape. If you're curious about the next era of collaboration and how humans and AI can work together at scale, this episode is for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Reporting live from Web Summit Lisbon 2025, where AIdominates every stage, one story stands out amid the tech frenzy: Belarus 2.0.In an exclusive interview with Belarus President-in-exile, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, we learn how thousands ofBelarusian tech founders, forced to flee persecution and imprisonment, are now launching startups across Europe, keeping innovation alive despite being in exile.Separately, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya is working on rebuilding Belarus itself — creating a vision for a free, digital-first, democratic nation, ready to emerge without the influence of Putin or Lukashenko.For the first time ever, Belarus has a stand at Web Summit,symbolizing hope, resilience, and the power of echnology as a tool for both innovation and national renewal.The show is presented by Ania Lichtarowicz.Production Manager: Liz TuohyEditor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/Follow us on the socials:Join our Facebook groupInstagramBlueSky If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484 Find a Story + Make it News = Change the WorldLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Reporting live from Web Summit Lisbon 2025, where AI dominates every stage, one story stands out amid the tech frenzy: Belarus 2.0. In an exclusive interview with Belarus President-in-exile, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, we learn how thousands of Belarusian tech founders, forced to flee persecution and imprisonment, are now launching startups across Europe, keeping innovation alive despite being in exile. Separately, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya is working on rebuilding Belarus itself — creating a vision for a free, digital-first, democratic nation, ready to emerge without the influence of Putin or Lukashenko. For the first time ever, Belarus has a stand at Web Summit, symbolizing hope, resilience, and the power of echnology as a tool for both innovation and national renewal. The show is presented by Ania Lichtarowicz. Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co   Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast heads to Web Summit 2025 — where over 70,000 innovators gather to define what's next in tech.Forget the headlines about private jets and billion-dollar startups. We're looking for the hidden heroes of innovation — founders from the world's remotest corners bringing tech for good ideas to life.From breakthroughs in AI and quantum computing to grassrootsmovements using technology for social impact, discover the real storiespowering the future.

This week, Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast heads to Web Summit 2025 — where over 70,000 innovators gather to define what's next in tech. Forget the headlines about private jets and billion-dollar startups. We're looking for the hidden heroes of innovation — founders from the world's remotest corners bringing tech for good ideas to life. From breakthroughs in AI and quantum computing to grassroots movements using technology for social impact, discover the real stories powering the future.

After last week's AI takeover, Somewhere on Earth returns to real voices and real data. This week, we dive into a groundbreaking new study analysing more than 10 million social media posts, confirming what many suspected — fake news really does spread faster than the truth.Joining Ania is Professor Mohsen Mosleh from the Oxford Internet Institute, who unpacks how political bias, algorithmic design, and social sharing habits shape what we believe online — and what, if anything, wecan do about it.

After last week's AI takeover, Somewhere on Earth returns to real voices and real data. This week, we dive into a groundbreaking new study analysing more than 10 million social media posts, confirming what many suspected — fake news really does spread faster than the truth. Joining Ania is Professor Mohsen Mosleh from the Oxford Internet Institute, who unpacks how political bias, algorithmic design, and social sharing habits shape what we believe online — and what, if anything, we can do about it.

Why is social media designed to reward misinformation? The answer might not be what you think.New research analyzing over 10 million posts reveals a startling paradox that holds true across every major platform, from X and BlueSky to LinkedIn: lower-quality news consistently attracts more engagement than higher-quality content. And the most surprising part? It's not just the algorithms—it's us.This week, we dive into the digital realities fracturing our online world. We explore why user preferences, not just code, are driving us into echo chambers and enabling the spread of misinformation. The implications for our political discourse and society are enormous.Don't just scroll - understand the forces shaping your feed. Listen to get the insights you need.Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast. New episodes every Tuesday.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why is social media designed to reward misinformation? The answer might not be what you think. New research analyzing over 10 million posts reveals a startling paradox that holds true across every major platform, from X and BlueSky to LinkedIn: lower-quality news consistently attracts more engagement than higher-quality content. And the most surprising part? It's not just the algorithms—it's us. This week, we dive into the digital realities fracturing our online world. We explore why user preferences, not just code, are driving us into echo chambers and enabling the spread of misinformation. The implications for our political discourse and society are enormous. Don't just scroll - understand the forces shaping your feed. Listen to get the insights you need. Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast. New episodes every Tuesday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast, we're letting AI take the lead. Using Google Notebook LM, we've built a full episode from some of our favourite past shows - letting algorithms choose what to play and how to tell the story. The result is a bold experiment in AI-generated podcasting, exploring how technology is reshaping work, food, and education around the world.We dive into the fight for gig workers' rights with Gigu, a Brazilian startup that took on Uber to promote fair pay and transparency, and Vos Futura, a platform redefining journalism with positive, solution-driven stories. We also head to Uzbekistan, where AgriTech innovator Grows is using AI tools to empower millions of smallholder farmers and build a more sustainable future. Finally, we explore how artificial intelligence is transforming education, from remote learning and language inclusion to mental health and online safety. Can machines tell meaningful human stories - and should they? The programme is presented by AI generated hosts. Production Manager: Liz TuohyEditor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/Follow us on the socials:Join our Facebook groupInstagramBlueSky If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.coSend us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484 Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast, we're letting AI take the lead. Using Google Notebook LM, we've built a full episode from some of our favourite past shows - letting algorithms choose what to play and how to tell the story. The result is a bold experiment in AI-generated podcasting, exploring how technology is reshaping work, food, and education around the world. We dive into the fight for gig workers' rights with Gigu, a Brazilian startup that took on Uber to promote fair pay and transparency, and Vos Futura, a platform redefining journalism with positive, solution-driven stories. We also head to Uzbekistan, where AgriTech innovator Grows is using AI tools to empower millions of smallholder farmers and build a more sustainable future. Finally, we explore how artificial intelligence is transforming education, from remote learning and language inclusion to mental health and online safety. Can machines tell meaningful human stories - and should they? The programme is presented by AI generated hosts.   Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast - we're handing the mic to AI. For the first time ever, we've created a full episode using Google Notebook LM - built from some of our favourite pastshows. The algorithms are choosing what to play… and even what to say.Will it work? Or will the machines miss the mark? Find out in this special AI-generated edition - dropping Tuesday, October 28th, wherever you get your podcasts.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast - we're handing the mic to AI. For the first time ever, we've created a full episode using Google Notebook LM - built from some of our favourite past shows. The algorithms are choosing what to play… and even what to say. Will it work? Or will the machines miss the mark? Find out in this special AI-generated edition - dropping Tuesday, October 28th, wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From major global businesses to personal accounts, cyberattacks are no longer rare - they're a part of everyday life. On this week's episode of Somewhere on Earth, we explore how individuals and nations are fighting back. Learn practical tips for securing your passwords, discover what “digital housekeeping” really means, and get an inside look at how Ukraine is defending itself whilst training the next generation of cybersecurity experts. Tune in for expert insights that could save you from your next online threat.The programme is presented by Ania Lichtarowicz. More on this week's stories:Professor Oli BuckleyIryna Volnytska Production Manager: Liz TuohyEditor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/Follow us on the socials:Join our Facebook groupInstagramBlueSky If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484 Find a Story + Make it News = Change the WorldLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From major global businesses to personal accounts, cyberattacks are no longer rare - they're a part of everyday life. On this week's episode of Somewhere on Earth, we explore how individuals and nations are fighting back. Learn practical tips for securing your passwords, discover what “digital housekeeping” really means, and get an inside look at how Ukraine is defending itself whilst training the next generation of cybersecurity experts. Tune in for expert insights that could save you from your next online threat. The programme is presented by Ania Lichtarowicz.   More on this week's stories: Professor Oli Buckley Iryna Volnytska   Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co  Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From high-profile cyberattacks on UK businesses to how you can protect yourself online — this week, Somewhere on Earth takes a closer look at cybersecurity.

From high-profile cyberattacks on UK businesses to how you can protect yourself online — this week, Somewhere on Earth takes a closer look at cybersecurity.

In this special edition of Somewhere on Earth, host Gareth Mitchell teams up with Andrew Grill, the “Actionable Futurist” behind the Digitally Curious podcast, for a thought-provoking deep dive into how artificial intelligence is reshaping our lives, work, and creativity. Joined by digital culture pioneer and SOEP Studio Expert Ghislaine Boddington, the trio explore what it really means to live — and stay human — in an AI-driven world. From the boardroom to the everyday, they unpack the shift from AI hype to real-world application, the rise of digital empathy, and how curiosity remains our greatest tool for navigating the future. Tune in for sharp insights, global perspectives, and authentic conversation — because being digitally curious has never mattered more. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ghislaine Boddington. More on this week's stories:Digitally Curious Production Manager: Liz TuohyEditor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials:Join our Facebook groupInstagramBlueSky If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484 Find a Story + Make it News = Change the WorldLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special edition of Somewhere on Earth, host Gareth Mitchell teams up with Andrew Grill, the “Actionable Futurist” behind the Digitally Curious podcast, for a thought-provoking deep dive into how artificial intelligence is reshaping our lives, work, and creativity. Joined by digital culture pioneer and SOEP Studio Expert Ghislaine Boddington, the trio explore what it really means to live — and stay human — in an AI-driven world. From the boardroom to the everyday, they unpack the shift from AI hype to real-world application, the rise of digital empathy, and how curiosity remains our greatest tool for navigating the future. Tune in for sharp insights, global perspectives, and authentic conversation — because being digitally curious has never mattered more.   The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ghislaine Boddington.   More on this week's stories: Digitally Curious Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co   Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Exciting news from Somewhere on Earth and Digitally Curious!We're teaming up with Andrew Grill, the Actionable Futurist behind the Digitally Curious podcast, for a special edition all about AI, society, and the real-world impact of digital change.Andrew brings practical, no-nonsense insight into how to use the future — not just imagine it. Plus, Ghislaine Boddington joins us to share her unique take from the cutting edge.

Exciting news from Somewhere on Earth and Digitally Curious! We're teaming up with Andrew Grill, the Actionable Futurist behind the Digitally Curious podcast, for a special edition all about AI, society, and the real-world impact of digital change. Andrew brings practical, no-nonsense insight into how to use the future — not just imagine it. Plus, Ghislaine Boddington joins us to share her unique take from the cutting edge.

Artificial intelligence isn't just coding our future - it's saving lives right now on Ukraine's frontlines. New research that's being presented at the American College of Surgeons Clinical Congress 2025 in 2025 shows how AI-driven evacuation systems, real-time medical data streaming, and autonomous rescue vehicles are reshaping combat medicine amid more than 390,000 reported injuries since Russia's invasion began. From triage algorithms that choose who gets evacuated first, to AI-designed prosthetics built for precision and recovery, this is tech meeting humanity in the most urgent way possible. Dr. Evgeni Kolesnikov's research shows how AI is redefining what's possible when machine learning meets medicine.

Artificial intelligence isn't just coding our future - it's saving lives right now on Ukraine's frontlines. New research that's being presented at the American College of Surgeons Clinical Congress 2025 in 2025 shows how AI-driven evacuation systems, real-time medical data streaming, and autonomous rescue vehicles are reshaping combat medicine amid more than 390,000 reported injuries since Russia's invasion began. From triage algorithms that choose who gets evacuated first, to AI-designed prosthetics built for precision and recovery, this is tech meeting humanity in the most urgent way possible. Dr. Evgeni Kolesnikov's research shows how AI is redefining what's possible when machine learning meets medicine.

Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast explores how innovation shapes real lives worldwide. In this episode, we uncover how AI is helping Ukrainian medics evacuate and treat wounded soldiers from the frontline - technology in action where every second matters. Plus, Dr. Julia Shaw joins us to discuss her new book Green Crime, and how tech is being used to expose crimes against our planet.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast explores how innovation shapes real lives worldwide. In this episode, we uncover how AI is helping Ukrainian medics evacuate and treat wounded soldiers from the frontline - technology in action where every second matters. Plus, Dr. Julia Shaw joins us to discuss her new book Green Crime, and how tech is being used to expose crimes against our planet. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A Ceasefire for the Digital AgeWhen war moves online, civilians and critical infrastructure become targets in new ways. In this episode, we unpack Access Now's call for a digital ceasefire — a bold demand to protect human rights in cyberspace. What would it mean to declare peace in networks, servers, and code? And how do we hold governments and companies accountable in this invisible but devastating battlefield? Giulio Coppi, senior humanitarian officer author at Access Now and Marwa Fatafta, co-author of the recent report, Digital Ceasefire: The Path to Peace Goes Online are on the show.The Science Behind DeepSeek's SuccessChina's DeepSeek R1 AI model has stunned the tech world — not just for its performance, but for how it was built. With no billion-dollar budgets and no shortcuts, the team leaned on efficiency and innovative training methods that are rewriting the rules of AI research. In this episode, we explore the science behind their success and what it reveals about the future of innovation and global competition in AI.The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ania Lichtarowicz.More on this week's stories:Digital Ceasefire: The path to peace goes onlineThe secrets of DeepSeek AI model revealed in landmark paper Production Manager: Liz TuohyEditor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/Follow us on the socials:Join our Facebook groupInstagramBlueSky If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484 Find a Story + Make it News = Change the WorldLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A Ceasefire for the Digital Age When war moves online, civilians and critical infrastructure become targets in new ways. In this episode, we unpack Access Now's call for a digital ceasefire — a bold demand to protect human rights in cyberspace. What would it mean to declare peace in networks, servers, and code? And how do we hold governments and companies accountable in this invisible but devastating battlefield? Giulio Coppi, senior humanitarian officer author at Access Now and Marwa Fatafta, co-author of the recent report, Digital Ceasefire: The Path to Peace Goes Online are on the show. The Science Behind DeepSeek's Success China's DeepSeek R1 AI model has stunned the tech world — not just for its performance, but for how it was built. With no billion-dollar budgets and no shortcuts, the team leaned on efficiency and innovative training methods that are rewriting the rules of AI research. In this episode, we explore the science behind their success and what it reveals about the future of innovation and global competition in AI. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ania Lichtarowicz. More on this week's stories: Digital Ceasefire: The path to peace goes online The secrets of DeepSeek AI model revealed in landmark paper   Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co   Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Coming up this week on Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast:

Coming up this week on Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast:

Artificial Intelligence isn't coming — it's already here. In Episode 102 of Somewhere on Earth – The Global Tech Podcast, host Ghislaine Boddington explores how AI is transforming the workplace, what it means for Africa's young population, and who's winning the global race for AI supremacy.

Artificial Intelligence isn't coming — it's already here. In Episode 102 of Somewhere on Earth – The Global Tech Podcast, host Ghislaine Boddington explores how AI is transforming the workplace, what it means for Africa's young population, and who's winning the global race for AI supremacy.

In our next episode:

In our next episode:

From underserved African languages to a revolutionary Brailledisplay — the latest Somewhere on Earth podcast covers stories thatmatter.Story 1 – AI and African LanguagesHausa, spoken by 94 million people, is understood by ChatGPT only 10-20% of the time. The issue? Lack of training data. A team behind African Next Voices has recorded 9,000 hours of speech across eighteen African languages, creating datasets to train AI and finally bring these languages online. Dr Ife Adebara CTO of EqualizeAI and Lead Solutions Engineer at Data Science Nigeria shares insights into the challenges, scope, and wider economic potential of this project.Story 2 – Micro-Explosive BrailleMost braille displays only show one line at a time, limiting access to complex content. A team from Cornell, MIT, and Michigan Universities has developed a multiline braille display using micro-explosions of fuel gas in silicone sheets to raise dots safely and rapidly. Tested successfully with users, this innovation could bring tactile reading into classrooms, libraries, and homes, while opening applications in VR, AR, and biomedical research. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ania Lichtarowicz. More on this week's stories:AI models are neglecting African languages — scientists want tochange thatExplosion-powered eversible tactile displays Production Manager: Liz TuohyEditor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribevia this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/Follow us on all the socials:Join our Facebook groupInstagramBlueSky If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.coSend us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484 Find a Story + Make it News = Change the WorldLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From underserved African languages to a revolutionary Braille display — the latest Somewhere on Earth podcast covers stories that matter. Story 1 – AI and African LanguagesHausa, spoken by 94 million people, is understood by ChatGPT only 10-20% of the time. The issue? Lack of training data. A team behind African Next Voices has recorded 9,000 hours of speech across eighteen African languages, creating datasets to train AI and finally bring these languages online. Dr Ife Adebara CTO of EqualizeAI and Lead Solutions Engineer at Data Science Nigeria shares insights into the challenges, scope, and wider economic potential of this project. Story 2 – Micro-Explosive BrailleMost braille displays only show one line at a time, limiting access to complex content. A team from Cornell, MIT, and Michigan Universities has developed a multiline braille display using micro-explosions of fuel gas in silicone sheets to raise dots safely and rapidly. Tested successfully with users, this innovation could bring tactile reading into classrooms, libraries, and homes, while opening applications in VR, AR, and biomedical research.   The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ania Lichtarowicz.   More on this week's stories: AI models are neglecting African languages — scientists want to change that Explosion-powered eversible tactile displays   Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on all the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Internet is unsafe if you're LGBTQ+ in Africa – and Big Tech isn't helpingBeing online should be empowering - but for LGBTQ+ communities across Africa, it's often dangerous. A new survey from digital rights group Access Now reveals how queer people are suffering harassment, threats, and abuse across social platforms. Instead of offering protection, major tech companies are turning a blind eye, leaving millions vulnerable. On this episode, we speak to Jaimee Kokonya, Africa Campaigner at Access Now, about the reality of digital life when simply logging on can put your safety at risk. Your AI browser extension could be spying on youThose handy AI browser assistants might be giving away more than they promise. A team at University College London has revealed that some of these popular extensions are quietly collecting highly sensitive data, including medical information and even social security details. We speak with Dr Anna Maria Mandalari, senior author of the study, about how these tools trade privacy for convenience, which extensions failed the test, and the one that actually passed. If you've installed one of these add-ons, you'll want to hear this before your next click. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ania Lichtarowicz. More on this week's stories: Digital Rights LGBTQ+ Africa Rainbow-burning: how social media companies increase risks for LGBTQ+ people in AfricaAI web browser assistants raise serious privacy concerns Production Manager: Liz TuohyEditor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/Follow us on the socials:Join our Facebook groupInstagramBlueSky If you like Somewhereon Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.coSend us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484 Find a Story + Make it News = Change the WorldLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Internet is unsafe if you're LGBTQ+ in Africa – and Big Tech isn't helping Being online should be empowering - but for LGBTQ+ communities across Africa, it's often dangerous. A new survey from digital rights group Access Now reveals how queer people are suffering harassment, threats, and abuse across social platforms. Instead of offering protection, major tech companies are turning a blind eye, leaving millions vulnerable. On this episode, we speak to Jaimee Kokonya, Africa Campaigner at Access Now, about the reality of digital life when simply logging on can put your safety at risk. Your AI browser extension could be spying on you Those handy AI browser assistants might be giving away more than they promise. A team at University College London has revealed that some of these popular extensions are quietly collecting highly sensitive data, including medical information and even social security details. We speak with Dr Anna Maria Mandalari, senior author of the study, about how these tools trade privacy for convenience, which extensions failed the test, and the one that actually passed. If you've installed one of these add-ons, you'll want to hear this before your next click. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ania Lichtarowicz. More on this week's stories: Digital Rights LGBTQ+ Africa Rainbow-burning: how social media companies increase risks for LGBTQ+ people in Africa AI web browser assistants raise serious privacy concerns Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Somewhere on Earth; The Global TechPodcast…When the Internet turns against you. We hear how LGBTQ+communities across Africa are being targeted with horrific abuse on socialplatforms – while Big Tech looks the other way. We speak to Access Now's Jaimee Kokonya on why being online is an act of bravery.And… is your AI assistant spying on you? Research from University College London shows some popular browser extensions are harvestingyour most sensitive data. Professor Anna Maria Mandalari reveals whichextensions failed the test, which one passed, and how to protect yourself.The tech stories that matter with Gareth Mitchell and Ania Lichtarowicz. Out this Tuesday at 2100BST.Subscribe to “Somewhere on Earth” wherever you get your podcasts.https://open.spotify.com/show/65YZwVfA03MSdZ3198yLdbhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast/id1713408769 Search for the PodExtra edition for even more in-depth analysis.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Somewhere on Earth; The Global Tech Podcast… When the Internet turns against you. We hear how LGBTQ+ communities across Africa are being targeted with horrific abuse on social platforms – while Big Tech looks the other way. We speak to Access Now's Jaimee Kokonya on why being online is an act of bravery. And… is your AI assistant spying on you? Research from University College London shows some popular browser extensions are harvesting your most sensitive data. Professor Anna Maria Mandalari reveals which extensions failed the test, which one passed, and how to protect yourself. The tech stories that matter with Gareth Mitchell and Ania Lichtarowicz. Out this Tuesday at 2100BST. Subscribe to “Somewhere on Earth” wherever you get your podcasts. https://open.spotify.com/show/65YZwVfA03MSdZ3198yLdb https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast/id1713408769   Search for the PodExtra edition for even more in-depth analysis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brazil Declared War on Phone Theft — Should the UK Do the Same?The UK's battle against mobile phone theft is being hindered by a standoff between law enforcement and major handset manufacturers. Police want to use IMEI blocking to quickly disable stolen devices, but Apple and Google disagree on the approach. The deadlock raises questions about privacy, data access, and the most effective way to render stolen phones useless.  While the UK remains stuck in debate, Brazil's major players - from telecoms to government agencies - are working together to tackle phone theft head-on. Sao Paulo-based tech company Qintess has developed a multi-layered system: detecting cloned devices through call pattern analysis, a secure app that lets users remotely lock stolen phones, and a restricted IMEI list that instantly renders devices unusable. The result is a coordinated, nationwide shield against phone crime. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert Ania Lichtarowicz More on this week's stories:Safe Cell Phone AppQintessApple and Google clash with Police over mobile phone theftProduction Manager: Liz TuohyEditor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/Follow us on the socials:Join our Facebook groupInstagramBlueSky If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.coSend us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484 Find a Story + Make it News = Change the WorldLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices