The Innovation Civilization podcast by Empasco features conversations with domain experts on the topics of civilizational progress, technology, history, philosophy, and the first-principles of the ideas that shape our world.
We're joined by Professor Ravi Ramamurti, founder and director of the Center for Emerging Markets at Northeastern University in Boston, who's one of the world's leading experts on innovation in emerging economies. Professor Ramamurti who along with his co-author coined the term ‘reverse innovation' — the phenomenon where innovation flows not from West to East, but from developing countries upward into wealthier markets. In this wide-ranging conversation, he challenges long-held assumptions about who innovates, how innovation spreads, and what lessons emerging markets are teaching the world. We dive into: How reverse innovation has become a mainstream force, from portable ultrasounds to healthcare delivery models. What made India's hospitals 90% cheaper than the U.S. while matching quality. The rise of China as a global innovation leader in EVs, solar, AI, and biotech. How internal competition and STEM education give China an edge. What separates emerging market multinationals from their Western counterparts. Why globalization might retreat in the West but accelerate across the Global South. The role of business model innovation, not just technical R&D, in driving growth. What policymakers in emerging economies should focus on to unlock innovation. This episode is part of the Emerging Market Innovation Series, created in collaboration with Strategic Counsel, and also features Hafidzi Razali, founder and CEO of Strategic Counsel. Key Takeaways from the Episode: 1. Innovation Is Reversing Direction: Emerging markets are no longer just catching up—they're now originating impactful innovations that reshape global industries. 2. Business Model Innovation Matters: From mobile payments to frugal healthcare, the biggest breakthroughs often come not from new tech, but from rethinking cost and access at scale. 3. China Is Now a Global Innovation Engine: Whether it's batteries, solar, AI, or pharmaceuticals, China is leading with original ideas—not just copycat models. 4. Internal Competition Fuels Innovation: China's provinces, companies, and universities are in constant competition, making it one of the most dynamic innovation ecosystems in the world. 5. Emerging Market MNCs Start Differently: Unlike Western firms built on tech superiority, EMNCs often scale through local problem-solving, cost innovation, and process excellence. 6. Don't Underestimate South-South Trade: As Western markets close, emerging markets may open up to one another, forming a new kind of globalization led from the Global South. 7. Innovation Needs State Support — and Deregulation: Countries need smart deregulation, investment in human capital, and openness to global ideas to create fertile ground for local innovation. 8. The AI Era Will Shake Up Everything: Professor Ramamurti shares early thoughts on how AI could redefine software economies like India's and change the geography of work. (00:00) - Intro (01:39) - What is Reverse Innovation? (02:55) - What sparked Europe's rise in the 19th century—and is the West now in decline? (09:35) - Examples of Reverse Innovation (14:10) - What are some original innovations from emerging economies that led global trends? (17:01) - Why are business model innovations just as critical as technical breakthroughs? (18:15) - Is China still reliant on Western education for innovation, or has it built its own R&D ecosystem? (20:17) - Do emerging economies need to copy before they can truly innovate? (22:49) - Is local competition between Chinese municipalities driving the country's innovation boom? (25:53) - Is China's tech dominance threatening local industries in Southeast Asia? (28:01) - What makes emerging market multinationals (EMNCs) different—and potentially better—than Western MNCs? (30:31) - As labor costs rise, how can China and emerging economies stay competitive in manufacturing? (32:26) - Can Latin America rise to global tech prominence like China—and what stands in its way? (34:06) - Are Latin American governments investing in local innovation like East Asian state-owned giants do? (35:41) - What should emerging market policymakers do to spark innovation and global competitiveness? (37:38) - How should emerging markets innovate in a world moving away from globalization and free trade? (40:37) - Is globalization making rich countries lose their edge while manufacturing hubs gain design power? (43:38) - What groundbreaking research is coming out of the Center for Emerging Market Studies at Northeastern University? (45:52) - Outro Join us for a powerful and myth-busting discussion with Professor Ravi Ramamurti as we explore the next chapter of global innovation from the perspective of the rising world. Follow our host on Linkedln to know more or subscribe to our emailing list to get new episodes directly into your inbox.
We're joined by George Sivulka, Founder and CEO of Hebbia, for a conversation on how does the future of white collar work look like with multi-agents. Hebbia is backed by some of the most legendary technology investors of our generation including Peter Thiel (early investor: Paypal, Facebook), Marc Andreesen (early investor: Airbnb, Github, Coinbase), Eric Schmidt (ex-CEO Google), Jerry Yang (Co-founder Yahoo). George's background from Stanford's PhD program, combined with his work at the cutting edge of AI meta-learning, has led him to a bold mission: to build Hebbia into a generationally important company that captures the full power of the AI revolution, not through chatbots, but through entirely new interfaces for serious, complex work. We dive into: What does the future of white collar/knowledge work look like What the future UX/UI of Agentic AI might be (beyond chatbots). How Hebbia uses multi-agent orchestration to tackle tasks like investment research, drug discovery, and complex analysis. How Hebbia solves hallucination by "citing first, generating second." Why George believes AI won't eliminate jobs, but will transform how we work—and why humans will always find new ways to create value. The lessons George has learned from investors like Peter Thiel and Eric Schmidt about building great companies. We also discuss deeper trends like the geography of AI data centers, the future of inference scaling laws, and why the real competitive advantage won't be technology alone — but taste, orchestration, and human-AI collaboration. Key Takeaways from the Episode: 1. Chatbots Are Just the Beginning: George explains why chat is a weak UI for serious work—the future will be spreadsheet-like, matrixed, and human/agent collaborative. 2. Multi-Agent Orchestration is Key: Hebbia focuses on orchestrating many AI agents and humans together to handle truly complex, multi-hop tasks across domains. 3. Hallucination-Free AI: Hebbia flips the model—retrieving and citing information first, then generating outputs—to ensure accuracy and trust in critical workstreams. 4. AI Will Augment, Not Replace Humans: Work will shift from purely human to hybrid models, with humans and AI agents collaborating fluidly rather than one replacing the other. 5. Taste and Human Judgment Will Matter More Than Ever: As software creation becomes ubiquitous, taste, creativity, and judgment will be the new moats for great companies. 6. The Importance of Geopolitics in AI Infrastructure: George highlights why where data centers are located — and who controls compute — will be a defining factor for global AI leadership. 7. Building for the Entire Planet, Not Just One Nation: George's vision for Hebbia is a global platform for all humanity, regardless of geopolitical shifts. Timestamps: (00:00) - Intro (01:48) - Why is Hebbia a generationally important company shaping the future of civilization? (04:23) - Is the chatbot interface the wrong path for the future of AI user experiences? (06:45) - What core problem is Hebbia solving that current LLMs and AI tools haven't addressed yet? (09:34) - How does Hebbia tackle AI hallucinations? (13:10) - What will a multi-agent AI future look like for everyday users in the next decade? (15:00) - Will AI replace white-collar jobs first—and what does the future of knowledge work really look like? (19:20) - Is the AI revolution truly different because it introduces general intelligence beyond past technologies? (23:09) - Is the decentralization of knowledge creating a new wave of better scientists outside traditional institutions? (24:11) - Is the rise of no-code and ubiquitous software creation signaling the end of traditional B2B SaaS? (26:54) - How do legendary investors like Eric Schmidt, Peter Thiel, and Jerry Yang influence Hebbia's strategy and vision? (28:54) - What makes Hebbia stand out as multi-agent AI technology rapidly advances? (30:32) - What AI trend are people not paying enough attention to? (32:31) - How are global shifts in trade and politics shaping the future of AI and company building? (34:25) - How are customers measuring real ROI from their AI investments amid today's AI boom? (36:23) - Is the true value of AI hidden in the new possibilities it unlocks, beyond just faster tasks? (37:19) - Outro Join us for this electrifying conversation with George Sivulka, where we explore the frontier of AI-human collaboration, the future of work, and how to build enduring technology companies. Follow our host on Linkedln to know more or subscribe to our emailing list to get new episodes directly into your inbox.
We're joined by Dante Disparte, Chief Strategy Officer and Head of Global Policy at Circle, one of the biggest issuers of stablecoins (USDC) in the world. This year marks an important inflexion point for stablecoins as adoption and key regulation kicks in. We're glad to have some one like Dante who has worked at the intersection of finance, technology, and policy, including his role on the US Digital Currency Governance Consortium and the World Economic Forum. As one of the central figures behind USDC, Circle's fully-reserved dollar-based stablecoin, he breaks down the real-world applications of stablecoins, how they differ from traditional banking rails, and what this means for billions of people globally. We dive into: • How traditional banking rails are fundamentally broken, and why stablecoins collapse messaging and settlement into a single, real-time action. • Why USDC is a safer, 1:1 dollar-backed alternative to traditional banking deposits. • How stablecoins are already transforming economic life in emerging markets. • The global policy implications of programmable digital money. • Why this is not about disrupting traditional finance—but completing its unfinished work. Stablecoins represent a transformative opportunity to rebuild the global financial system in an open, instant, and borderless manner, akin to how the internet revolutionized information sharing. By eliminating intermediaries and leveraging blockchain technology, stablecoins can significantly reduce transaction costs and times, making financial services more accessible and efficient worldwide. This shift has the potential to democratize finance, enabling seamless global commerce and innovation, much like how email and the web democratized communication and information access. Key Takeaways from the Episode: 1. Stablecoins Collapse Messaging and Settlement into One Layer: Unlike traditional systems like SWIFT or PayPal, where a payment is just a message and settlement lags behind, stablecoins like USDC send the actual value along with the message—executing real-time, programmable transactions. 2. The World's Financial Plumbing Is Broken: Slow, expensive, and opaque systems benefit incumbents who profit from delays. Stablecoins offer an open, interoperable alternative—what Dante calls the "Internet of Value." 3. USDC is 1:1 Backed – Not Fractional Reserve: Circle holds 100% of reserves in cash and short-term US Treasuries. Fully transparent, independently audited, and free from commingling, USDC is designed for trust at scale. 4. Emerging Markets Are Leading Adoption: USDC is being adopted as a store of value and medium of exchange in places with volatile local currencies, enabling billions of unbanked and underbanked users to access the global economy. 5. Stablecoins Enable New Forms of Programmable Finance: From streaming payments to tokenized IP ownership, stablecoins unlock composable, automated financial systems. Think of it as building with financial Lego blocks. 6. Interoperability Is Key: Circle's Cross-Chain Transfer Protocol (CCTP) and integration with 18+ blockchains allow USDC to operate natively across ecosystems—much like email works across providers. 7. Stablecoins vs. CBDCs vs. Bitcoin: Dante lays out why stablecoins (especially private-sector ones) offer better trust, scalability, and flexibility than central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) or highly volatile assets like Bitcoin. 8. Global Policy Must Catch Up: Governments should embrace rules-based competition and interoperability, rather than stifling innovation. Stablecoins are not here to replace sovereign currencies—they're here to complete unfinished work in the financial system. Join us for a masterclass in monetary innovation and policy with one of the most visionary voices in fintech. Follow our host on Linkedln to know more or subscribe to our emailing list to get new episodes directly into your inbox. Timestamps: (00:00) - Intro (01:28) - What is Stablecoin? (02:15) - How does decentralized digital money differ from early platforms like PayPal? (03:46) - How does money actually settle using SWIFT and traditional banking systems? (05:47) - Why is the traditional global settlement system a black box—and what makes it so outdated? (11:10) - Why does the world need stablecoins in a modern financial system? (16:56) - Why are stablecoins like USDC gaining massive traction in emerging markets? (20:29) - How do mobile money systems like M-Pesa compare to USDC in emerging markets? (23:32) - Is USDC revolutionizing remittance corridors through partnerships in emerging markets? (27:12) - Will USDC become a part of everyday banking and be usable at points of sale? (35:47) - Does USDC operate on a full-reserve model instead of fractional reserve banking? (38:39) - Is USDC's future too dependent on the U.S. dollar's global reserve currency status? (45:59) - Can central banks like the Bank of England issue digital currencies on open-source USDC rails? (48:59) - What would a strategic Bitcoin reserve mean for U.S. monetary policy and global finance? (51:26) - Is the U.S. strategy to dominate digital finance through both USDC and Bitcoin reserves? (55:36) - What happens to local currencies if global citizens start holding USDC instead? (59:13) - Can USDC inflows help strengthen foreign exchange reserves in emerging markets like Kenya? (62:32) - What does the future of money and daily finance look like by the year 2100? (64:54) - What key regulations are needed now to shape the future of digital finance? (66:23) - Outro
In this episode, we're joined by Professor Jomo Kwame Sundaram, a Malaysian economist and thought leader who served as the Assistant Secretary-General for Economic Development at the United Nations (UN) and Assistant Director-General at the FAO. We explore how countries in the Global South can chart their own paths to prosperity. What makes a country truly developed? Is it just GDP per capita or something deeper? Professor Jomo challenges conventional economic dogma—unpacking flawed narratives around FDI, inflation, aid, and industrial policy. With sharp historical insight and grounded realism, he examines why only a few countries have truly made the leap from developing to developed, and what it takes for the rest to follow. We dive deep into: • Why South Korea's path to development is so unique—and rarely replicated • The dangers of relying too heavily on foreign direct investment (FDI) • How resource-rich countries like Tanzania and Equatorial Guinea remain poor • The role of good governance—myth vs. reality • Industrial policy and protectionism in the modern age • The myth of the 2% inflation target and the origins of TFP calculations • Why we need whistleblowers in economics to fight mythology Key Takeaways from the Episode: 1. GDP Isn't Everything: Professor Jomo argues that true development is about human capabilities—not just high income. Many mineral-rich countries show that high GDP doesn't guarantee a capable, prosperous society. 2. FDI Is Not a Magic Bullet: Countries like South Korea succeeded by limiting FDI and building domestic capacity. In contrast, over-reliance on foreign capital can lead to wealth extraction without long-term benefits. 3. Governance Indicators Are Circular: Metrics of good governance often reinforce existing biases, labeling developing countries as inherently poor-governed based on narrow criteria. 4. Aid Isn't Always Altruistic: While aid can help, it often serves political purposes and fails to address structural problems. Misguided advice—like telling Tanzania not to tax gold mining—has impoverished nations further. 5. The Power of Industrial Policy: From the U.S. post-Civil War to modern-day China, industrial policy has always driven real growth. The current revival of protectionism may reshape global trade dynamics. 6. The Myth of the 2% Inflation Target: Professor Jomo dismantles the origin story of the widely accepted 2% inflation target, tracing it back to a political slogan in New Zealand rather than any real economic justification. 7. Emerging Markets Must Think Contextually: There's no one-size-fits-all model for development. Local conditions, capabilities, and smart policymaking matter more than mimicking the West. 8. Technology's Role Is Complex: AI and machine learning have vast potential, but without equitable distribution, they may worsen inequality. True progress lies in how benefits are shared. Join us for this unfiltered, eye-opening episode with Professor Jomo, where we challenge dominant development narratives and explore the real ingredients of economic transformation. Follow our host on Linkedln to know more or subscribe to our emailing list to get new episodes directly into your inbox. This conversation is part of the Emerging Market Innovation Series, brought to you in collaboration with Strategic Counsel, where we're also joined by Hafidzi Razali, Founder and CEO of Strategic Counsel. Timestamps: (00:00) – Introduction to Professor Jomo and his global economic leadership (02:00) – What defines a developed country? Why GDP isn't enough (05:50) – The FDI trap: Why foreign capital can hinder national development (12:10) – Lessons from Korea, China, and Singapore (17:45) – Mariana Mazzucato, moonshots, and the entrepreneurial state debate (24:00) – Financialization and the decline of real innovation (30:50) – Industrial policy from Hamilton to Biden: A history of protectionism (36:10) – Extractive vs. inclusive institutions: Debating colonial legacy (43:00) – The French CFA zone and the myth of aid (49:30) – Inflation targeting and monetary policy misconceptions (55:00) – Can AI drive growth—or deepen inequality? (60:00) – Final thoughts on building resilient, people-first economies
In this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Benji Leibowitz, Chief Operating Officer at Molecule and Co-Founder of Pump.Science. Benji is at the forefront of the Decentralized Science (DeSci) movement, which utilizes blockchain technology to democratize research funding and empower scientific communities. Benji Leibowitz has a diverse background in academic research, investment banking, venture capital, and computational biology research and development. At Molecule, he plays a pivotal role in creating a decentralized biotech protocol that connects researchers with funding opportunities through Web3 technologies. Additionally, he leads Pump.Science, a Solana-native DeSci funding platform aimed at gamifying and broadening participation in scientific research. In This Episode, We Explore: • The Challenges in Traditional Science Funding: How centralized funding models limit innovation and how DeSci proposes to address these issues. • The Role of Blockchain in DeSci: Why blockchain is considered the ideal technology for decentralizing scientific research and funding. • Introduction to Molecule and Pump.Science: An overview of these platforms and how they aim to revolutionize the way scientific research is funded and conducted. • Engaging the Broader Community: How platforms like Pump.Science are gamifying research funding to involve a wider audience in scientific discovery. • Advice for Researchers: Encouragement and guidance for scientists interested in exploring decentralized models for their work. Key Takeaways: 1. Decentralization Empowers Researchers: By leveraging blockchain technology, researchers can access funding sources beyond traditional institutions, fostering innovation. 2. Community Engagement is Crucial: Decentralized platforms enable public participation in scientific research, increasing transparency and trust. 3. Blockchain Ensures Transparency: The immutable nature of blockchain records enhances the credibility and reproducibility of scientific findings. 4. Gamification Attracts Participation: Introducing game-like elements to research funding can make science more accessible and engaging to the public. 5. Future of DeSci: Decentralized Science holds the potential to accelerate scientific discoveries by democratizing access to funding and resources. Timestamps: • (00:00) – Introduction to Benji Leibowitz and the concept of Decentralized Science • (05:15) – Challenges in traditional science funding models • (12:30) – How blockchain technology facilitates DeSci • (20:45) – Overview of Molecule's mission and projects • (28:10) – The vision behind Pump.Science and its impact on research funding • (35:50) – Engaging the public through gamification and decentralized platforms • (42:00) – Advice for scientists considering DeSci approaches • (50:20) – The future landscape of decentralized scientific research Join us for this insightful discussion with Benji Leibowitz as we delve into how decentralization and blockchain technology are transforming the scientific research ecosystem. Follow our host on Linkedln to know more or subscribe to our emailing list to get new episodes directly into your inbox.
In this episode, part of our brand new Emerging Market Innovation Series, we sat down with Soumitra Dutta, Dean of the Saïd Business School at the University of Oxford. He's an expert on global innovation and the author of the Global Innovation Index, which is used by governments and institutions worldwide to shape innovation policy. We're also joined by a friend of the pod, Hafidzi Razali who's the Founder and CEO of Strategic Counsel, who's an expert on policy-making in South-east Asia and beyond. Innovation is often seen as the driving force behind economic growth, but how can emerging markets build successful innovation ecosystems? We explore the key ingredients required to foster innovation at a national level. Soumitra Dutta has worked at the intersection of academia, business, and policy, serving as the Dean of leading business schools and advising governments on how to create innovation-driven economies. He shares key insights on how emerging markets can learn from global success stories and adapt them to their own unique environments. We dive deep into: • Defining Innovation: How innovation differs from invention and why successful market adoption is key. • National Innovation Strategies: Why political leadership plays a crucial role in fostering innovation. • The Role of Governments: How government policies, procurement, and infrastructure investments can catalyze innovation. • Emerging Market Leadership: Lessons from countries like Singapore, China, and Finland on transforming national economies. • The Role of Talent: Why attracting, developing, and retaining skilled professionals is critical for sustainable innovation. • Measuring Innovation: A breakdown of the Global Innovation Index and how emerging markets can climb the rankings. • Collaboration vs. Competition: Why innovation thrives in open, knowledge-sharing ecosystems. Key Takeaways from the Episode: 1. Innovation Requires Strong Leadership: Countries that successfully foster innovation have strong political leadership that prioritizes R&D, education, and infrastructure. 2. Government as an Enabler: From providing financial incentives to setting up digital infrastructure, how governments can play a key role in ensuring businesses and entrepreneurs can innovate effectively. 3. Why Emerging Markets Need a Unique Strategy: Instead of mimicking Silicon Valley, emerging markets must leverage their strengths, such as market-driven innovations and regulatory flexibility. 4. The Importance of Talent & Immigration: Nations that attract and retain top talent consistently outperform others in innovation. Policies that make it easier for skilled professionals to relocate can accelerate growth. 5. Learning from China & Singapore: China's strategic long-term investment in innovation and Singapore's structured approach to attracting businesses provide models that other emerging markets can adapt. 6. Infrastructure as a Foundation: A strong innovation ecosystem needs reliable digital and physical infrastructure, including roads, internet connectivity, and financial systems. 7. The Power of KPIs and Measurement: Innovation must be measured effectively—governments should not just aim to climb rankings but use metrics to improve their weakest links. 8. Open Innovation & Collaboration: The best innovation economies prioritize knowledge-sharing and open-source development over isolationist policies. Timestamps: (00:00) – Introduction to Soumitra Dutta and the Emerging Market Innovation Series (02:10) – What is innovation? Breaking down invention vs. market adoption (05:30) – Why and what kind of government policies are critical for innovation success (10:20) – Lessons from Singapore, China, and Finland on scaling innovation (18:45) – How to achieve leadership & cross-ministry collaboration in national innovation (25:10) – How AI and blockchain are reshaping innovation ecosystems at national levels (30:40) – The importance of attracting top talent to drive innovation (36:50) – Measuring innovation: How the Global Innovation Index works (42:30) – The need for systemic change to improve education, healthcare, and digital infrastructure (50:10) – Why collaboration is more important than competition in driving innovation (56:30) – Closing thoughts and final advice for emerging market leaders Join us in this compelling discussion with Soumitra Dutta, where we uncover the building blocks of national innovation ecosystems and how emerging markets can thrive in the new global economy. Follow our host on Linkedln to know more or subscribe to our emailing list to get new episodes directly into your inbox. This episode is part of the Emerging Market Innovation Series, produced in collaboration with Strategic Counsel.
In this episode, we sat down with Daniel Eriksson, former CEO of Transparency International, to explore how corruption operates globally and what can be done to combat it. Corruption is one of the most pervasive challenges facing the world today. But how do we dismantle it, especially when it's deeply entrenched in political systems? Daniel has spearheaded anti-corruption initiatives across more than 100 countries, leading advocacy efforts to challenge corrupt systems, promote transparency, and hold the powerful accountable. From state capture to the misuse of emerging technologies, he sheds light on how corruption evolves and how we can fight back. We dive deep into: Understanding Corruption: Breaking down the types of corruption, from petty bribery to grand corruption and state capture. The Role of Transparency International: How TI's Corruption Perception Index works and its impact on global anti-corruption efforts. Global North's Role in Enabling Corruption: How countries like the UK and Switzerland facilitate money laundering from the Global South. Emerging Technologies in the Fight Against Corruption: The potential of AI and blockchain to detect and prevent corrupt practices. Success Stories: How Ukraine's digital transformation has made it a leading example in anti-corruption during wartime. Key Takeaways from the Episode: 1. Corruption Defined: Daniel Eriksson explains corruption as the abuse of entrusted power for personal gain, highlighting its various forms, from petty corruption to state capture. 2. Transparency as a Cure: Open data, digital public procurement, and accessible financial records are key to minimizing corruption, especially in high-risk sectors like defense and real estate. 3. The Global North's Responsibility: Wealth stolen from the Global South often ends up in the Global North. Daniel calls for stronger regulations to prevent money laundering through real estate, anonymous shell companies, and financial systems. 4. The Power of AI and Blockchain: While blockchain remains underutilized, AI holds promise in analyzing large datasets to uncover hidden corruption, though challenges remain in its adoption. 5. Ukraine's Anti-Corruption Journey: Despite being at war, Ukraine has climbed Transparency International's corruption rankings through citizen-driven efforts, digitalization, and political will. 6. Challenges for Transitioning Countries: For countries like Bangladesh undergoing political transitions, Daniel advises focusing on high-impact sectors like public procurement to build transparency and trust. 7. Fighting State Capture: Addressing corruption at the highest levels requires systemic change, from legal reforms to digital transparency measures. 8. A Call for Global Action: Daniel emphasizes the need for democratic countries to block dirty money inflows and support global anti-corruption initiatives. Join us in this compelling conversation with Daniel Eriksson as we explore the complexities of corruption and the tools we need to fight it. Follow our host (@iwaheedo) for more insights on governance, transparency, and global development. Timestamps: (00:00) - Intro (02:12) - What is Transparency International and how does it fight global corruption? (03:07) - Is rooting out corruption the key to solving challenges in emerging markets? (07:05) - What separates legal lobbying from political power hijacking and corruption? (09:37) - How is the Corruption Perceptions Index constructed and what is it used for? (12:00) - Is there a link between corruption, lack of democracy, and weak institutions? (16:26) - Has global corruption increased, decreased, or remained the same over the past century? (18:05) - What is the cause of state capture corruption? (19:31) - How are emerging technologies reshaping the fight against corruption? (22:30) - Is blockchain transforming anti-corruption efforts with smart contracts and transparency? (29:08) - Can online tendering reduce corruption by increasing transparency? (30:30) - What government data should be open or closed to minimize corruption? (33:02) - Are large language models (LLMs) being used to combat corruption? (39:02) - Is the future of anti-corruption driven by grassroots citizen efforts or top-down government initiatives? (39:52) - What advice would you give to leaders of transition countries fighting corruption? (44:38) - Does systemic anti-corruption reform focus on laws, people, or processes? (47:49) - How can democratic leaders manage opposing forces when tackling systemic corruption? (49:25) - How effective are anti-corruption commissions in fighting systemic corruption? (52:12) - Could a national public dashboard of KPIs and finances revolutionize government transparency? (57:09) - Do global north countries have incentives to stop illicit money inflows from corrupt elites? (59:50) - Outro
We're joined by the US Science Envoy for AI, Dr.Rumman Chowdhury, who's a leading expert in responsible AI. We uncover the ethical, technical, and societal implications of artificial intelligence. As AI rapidly eats up the world, the question is what happens when it doesn't align with human values? How do we navigate the risks of bias, misinformation, and hallucination in AI systems? Dr. Chowdhury has been at the forefront of AI governance, red teaming, and AI risk mitigation. She has worked with global institutions, governments, and tech companies to make AI more accountable, safe, and equitable. From her time at Twitter's (now X) Machine Learning Ethics Transparency and Accountability team to founding Humane Intelligence, she has actively shaped policies that determine how AI interacts with human society. We dive deep into: - AI bias, disinformation, and manipulation: How AI models inherit human biases and what we can do about it. - Hallucinations in AI: Why generative AI models fabricate information and why it's not a bug but a feature. - AI governance and regulation: Why unchecked AI development is dangerous, and the urgent need for independent audits. - The risks of OpenAI, Meta, and big tech dominance: Who is really in control of AI, and how can we ensure fair oversight? - How companies should approach AI ethics: Practical strategies businesses can use to prevent harm while innovating responsibly. Key Takeaways from the Episode: 1. AI as a Tool, Not a Mind: Dr. Rumman Chowdhury debunks the myth that AI is alive or sentient. AI is a tool—just like a hammer—it can be used to build or destroy. The real issue isn't AI itself, but how humans choose to use it. 2. Why AI Hallucinations Are Unavoidable: Unlike traditional machine learning models, generative AI doesn't compute facts; it predicts what words statistically fit together. This means hallucinations—where AI completely fabricates information—are not a flaw, but an inherent feature of how these models work. 3. The Hidden Biases in AI Models: AI models are only as good as their training data, which often reflects human biases. Dr. Chowdhury discusses how AI systems unintentionally amplify biases in hiring, finance, and law enforcement, and what needs to be done to fix it. 4. The Illusion of AI Objectivity: Many assume AI models are neutral, but the truth is that all models are built with human input, which means they carry subjective biases. Dr. Chowdhury warns that the real danger is allowing a handful of tech elites to dictate how AI shapes global narratives. 5. The Need for AI Red Teaming & Auditing: Just like cybersecurity stress tests, AI models need independent stress tests to identify risks before they cause harm. Dr. Chowdhury shares her experience leading global AI red teaming exercises with scientists and governments to assess AI's real-world impact. 6. OpenAI and the Power Problem: Is OpenAI truly aligned with public interest? Dr. Chowdhury critiques how AI giants hold more power than entire nations and explains why AI must be treated as a public utility rather than a corporate monopoly. 7. Why AI Needs More Public Oversight: Most AI governance is self-imposed by the companies that build these models. Dr. Chowdhury calls for third-party, independent AI audits, similar to financial auditing, to ensure transparency and accountability in AI decision-making. 8. The Role of Governments vs. Private AI Firms: With AI development largely controlled by private companies, what role should governments play? Dr. Chowdhury argues that governments must create AI Safety Institutes, set up national regulations, and empower independent researchers to hold AI accountable. Timestamps: (00:00) - Introduction to Dr. Rumman Chowdhury and AI ethics (03:03) - Why AI is just a tool (and how it's being misused) (04:58) - The difference between machine learning, deep learning, and generative AI (07:43) - Why AI hallucinations will never fully go away (11:46) - AI misinformation and the challenge of verifying truth (13:26) - The ethical risks of OpenAI and Meta's control over AI (18:20) - The role of red teaming in stress-testing AI models (30:26) - Should AI be treated as a public utility? (35:43) - Government vs. private AI oversight—who should regulate AI? (37:22) - The case for third-party AI audits (53:51) - The future of AI governance and accountability (61:03) - Closing thoughts and how AI can be a force for good Join us in this deep dive into the world of AI ethics, accountability, and governance with one of the field's top leaders. Follow our host (@iwaheedo) for more insights on technology, civilization, and the future of AI.
We welcome Faisal Ali Rashid, Sr. Director at the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, to learn from Dubai's ambitious drive toward achieving net zero by 2050. Faisal, a leader in energy strategy and sustainability, oversees programs transforming Dubai's approach to energy, water, and waste management, setting a new standard for urban sustainability in the region. We were also joined by our friend on the podcast, Tushar Narula - a sustainability advisor and a climate change expert whose work has spanned different continents, industries, and top institutions like UC Berkeley, MIT, Harvard, & Imperial College London. In this episode, Faisal shares Dubai's comprehensive strategies for renewable energy and demand-side management, revealing key milestones like achieving 25% renewable energy in the total energy mix and aiming for 100% renewable energy by 2050. He explains not only the WHAT but HOW Dubai plans to achieve these in detail. We also discuss the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy's regulatory framework, incentive programs, and innovative public-private partnerships (PPPs) that fund green projects, including the groundbreaking Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park. Faisal highlights the role of community involvement and youth leadership in advancing sustainability, describing how the Advancing Net Zero initiative empowers the next generation to contribute to Dubai's climate goals. All the topics covered in the episode: -Dubai's Renewable Energy Goals: Achievements and future targets toward 100% renewable energy. -Demand-Side Management: Reducing consumption and increasing energy efficiency. -Policy and Financial Incentives: How Dubai fosters sustainable development through strategic regulations and PPPs. -Innovation and Technology: Cutting-edge projects in solar, smart metering, and energy storage. -Community and Youth Engagement: The role of education and volunteerism in driving net-zero progress. Join us as we dive into Dubai's pioneering efforts to build a sustainable, net-zero future with one of its leading energy strategists. Follow our host, Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo), for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets. Timestamps: (00:00) - Intro (02:30) - Faisal's background and Dubai's sustainability journey (03:58) - Demand-side management and green building initiatives (05:47) - Dubai's renewable energy milestones and 2050 goals (09:38) - Policy and incentives driving green transition in the middle east (18:43) - The role of PPPs in funding sustainability projects (24:12) - Dubai's innovation in energy storage and technology (32:33) - Key lessons for global cities on climate action (38:33) - Youth and community involvement in net-zero goals (41:28) - Outro
We're joined by Dr. Denis Noble, Professor Emeritus of Cardiovascular Physiology at the University of Oxford, and the father of 'systems biology'. He is known for his groundbreaking creation of the first mathematical model of the heart's electrical activity in the 1960s which radically transformed our understanding of the heart. Dr. Noble's contributions have revolutionized our understanding of cardiac function and the broader field of biology. His work continues to challenge long-standing biological concepts, including gene-centric views like Neo-Darwinism. In this episode, Dr. Noble discusses his critiques of fundamental biological theories that have shaped science for over 80 years, such as the gene self-replication model and the Weissmann barrier. He advocates for a more holistic, systems-based approach to biology, where genes, cells, and their environments interact in complex networks rather than a one-way deterministic process. We dive deep into Dr. Noble's argument that biology needs to move beyond reductionist views, emphasizing that life is more than just the sum of its genetic code. He explains how AI struggles to replicate even simple biological systems, and how biology's complexity suggests that life's logic lies not in DNA alone but in the entire organism. The conversation covers his thoughts on the flaws of Neo-Darwinism, the influence of environmental factors on evolution, and the future of biology as a field that recognizes the interaction between nature and nurture. We also explore the implications of his work for health and longevity, and how common perspectives on genetics might need rethinking. All the topics we covered in the episode: -The critique of Neo-Darwinism and the future of evolutionary theory. -Systems biology: Understanding life beyond the gene. -The complexity of biology: Why reductionism falls short. -Evolution and inheritance: The role of environment in shaping species. -Health implications of Dr. Noble's work: Longevity, lifestyle, and the limits of genome-based predictions. Join us for a thrilling discussion on the future of biology, evolution, and the practical implications for health and science. Follow our host, Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo), for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets. Timestamps: (00:00) - Intro (03:04) - Why Was The Last 80 Years of Biology Wrong? (08:17) - Where does Logic come from? (13:03) - Is Evolution Truly Random or Driven by Purpose? (22:05) - Is Nurture more important than Nature? (29:06) - Denis Noble calls for a rewrite of all Biology textbooks (32:48) - Is Neo-Darwinism Just a Model? Understanding the Difference Between Evolution and the Creationism Debate (39:22) - Natural Selection vs. Lamarckian Evolution: How Darwin Changed Our Understanding of Survival Traits (46:03) - Reductionism vs. Integrationism in Science: How the 'Third Way' Challenges Neo-Darwinism (49:43) - What Does Epigenetics Mean for the Average Person? How Denis Noble's Paradigm Shift Impacts Everyday Health and Life? (69:29) - Is Western Science Facing a Paradigm Shift? Rethinking How We Determine Truth and Health in Light of Eastern and Western Influences (75:21) - Why Reductionism Dominates Science: The Political and Practical Challenges of Embracing a Systems Biology Approach (82:49) - Can We Trust AI to Behave Ethically? The Need to Connect Philosophy with Technology in AI Development (86:46) - Outro
We welcome Bryan Johnson, multi-millionaire visionary entrepreneur and founder of "Don't Die." Known as the most measured man in human history, Bryan is pushing the boundaries of human longevity by meticulously tracking his body's biomarkers in pursuit of an extended health span, not just lifespan. His 'Blueprint' protocols can be found here. Bryan's journey from revolutionizing digital payments with Braintree Venmo, which he sold to PayPal for $800 million, to dedicating over $100 million of his fortune to extend human life reveals a deep commitment to humanity's future. Through his initiative Blueprint, Bryan is developing an algorithm that takes better care of our bodies than we can do ourselves, aiming for a world where "Don't Die" becomes a societal mantra. In this episode, Bryan discusses his philosophy behind "Don't Die" and how it could reshape politics, economics, ethics, and more. He explores the potential of AI to revolutionize decision-making and extend human capabilities beyond our current limitations. Bryan also put forward the challenges of aligning AI with human longevity and the ethical dilemmas that arise when pursuing extended life spans. The conversation spans topics such as the future of artificial intelligence, the exploration of human consciousness, and the need for societal shifts toward sustainable living. Bryan talks about the potential of technology to transform our understanding of life and offers a visionary perspective on what humanity might look like in the 25th century. We also cover how Bryan's work could redefine what it means to be human, the importance of mastering the basics of health, and the potential for algorithms to outperform human decision-making in every aspect of life. All the topics that we covered in the episode: -Health and Longevity: Bryan's quest to extend life through science and technology. -AI and Human Potential: Artificial intelligence's role in shaping humanity's future. -Societal Transformation: How "Don't Die" could redefine our approach to politics, ethics, and economics. -Consciousness and Technology: Exploring the next frontier of human experience. -Ethical Challenges: The dilemmas of aligning AI with human longevity. Join us for a forward-thinking discussion as we explore the intersection of technology, longevity, and the future of civilization with one of the leading minds in the field. Follow our host, Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo), for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets. Subscribe to our newsletter to get these directly into your inbox. Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode: (00:00) - Intro (02:56) - Bryan's background and the origins of "Don't Die" (04:56) - Limitations of LLMs and their reliance on historical data for generating responses (07:57) - Living with a future-oriented mindset and connecting the dots retrospectively (09:41) - Trust in science through the use of biomarkers and objective data as a source of truth (11:15) - The philosophical motivations behind pursuing rejuvenation science and the desire to live forever despite not fearing death (14:37) - Why might humanity's progress in decision-making and societal improvements not continue at the same rate despite past achievements? (17:51) - Reflecting on the idea that 'Don't die' is the greatest virtue, contrasting it with the ethical teachings of philosophers like Socrates, Confucius, and Plato (19:47) - How does the paradigm shift of 'don't die' impact all actions and social structures and confront the influence of AI-driven recommendation systems on personal behavior? (21:54) - The contrast between inherent human nature, whether inherently good or bad and the internal conflict between different versions of ourselves, like 'evening Brian' and 'morning Brian? (25:36) - Discussing whether the goal of the Blueprint is to achieve a consistently performing self across different times and situations (27:54) - Reflecting on the overemphasis on material goals like financial success and questioning their true impact on long-term happiness (29:40) - The mental orientation needed to optimize for longevity, balancing material gains with a higher purpose and finding the best mindset to subscribe to (31:14) - How Stoicism and similar philosophies suggest that dissociating from base desires leads to personal freedom and an optimized self, including firing 'Evening Brian.' (34:38) - The possibility of developing technology or algorithms to eliminate the 'lower self,' reducing vulnerability to temporary pleasures and their negative biological consequences (36:38) - The development of protocols focused on the mind and consciousness, beyond biological approaches like diet and nutrition (38:13) - Implementation of the 'Blueprint' (41:54) - Comparing the concept of the Blueprint to religious protocols (43:52) - Explaining Zero-based thinking (45:50) - Discussing how generational context and societal stability influence decision-making, contrasting current choices with earlier necessities during foundational periods, like John Adams' era (47:58) - Outro
We welcome Mark Boggett, CEO and co-founder of Seraphim Space, Europe's biggest Space tech fund and the world's first space-focused investment fund Mark's journey from a career in technology investment to pioneering space venture capital reveals the transformative potential of space tech for our civilization. Mark's expertise is rooted in his careful monitoring of SpaceX's revolutionary impact on the market, inspiring him to establish Seraphim Space. With significant investments in over 120 space tech companies, including cutting-edge startups like iSci and Hubble Network, Mark shares invaluable insights into the industry's future. Mark discusses Seraphim's unique approach to investment, focusing on seed and Series A stages, and highlights their accelerator program, which has become the largest space tech accelerator in the world. He elaborates on how Seraphim supports startups, from early-stage university spinouts to scaling established companies, ensuring they are investment-ready and poised for success. The conversation explores the evolution of space tech, the rise of miniaturized satellites, and the potential for space tech to revolutionize various sectors, including defense, climate, and sustainability. Mark sheds light on the economic and strategic importance of space tech, the role of government R&D, and the impact of global geopolitics on the industry. We also cover the ethical considerations and regulatory challenges surrounding space tech, emphasizing the importance of sustainable development and the potential for space tech to create a healthier and more resilient planet. All the topics that we covered in the episode: * Tech Industry Evolution: Mark's journey from tech investment to pioneering space venture capital. * Venture Capital Dynamics: Seraphim's investment philosophy and support for startups. * Space Tech Innovations: Advancements in miniaturized satellites and digital infrastructure. * Market Conditions and Job Impact: The economic and strategic importance of space tech. * Future of Space Applications: The transformative potential of space tech in various sectors. * Regulatory Environment: Challenges and opportunities in space tech regulation. Join us for an enlightening discussion as we explore the future of space technology with one of the industry's leading investors. Follow our host, Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo), for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets. Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode. (00:00) - Intro (01:42) - Mark's background and career journey (03:09) - Seraphim's investment philosophy and framework (04:17) - Investment stages and focus areas (07:35) - Supporting startups post-investment (11:05) - Space tech innovation waves, market dynamics, and investment landscape (14:59) - Large constellations of miniaturized satellites (19:07) - Future potential of space applications (23:27) - Future direction of space tech regulation (27:30) - Innovative business models in the space tech industry (35:15) - LLMs & Space Tech are revolutionizing modern applications & technology (41:42) - Need for Government-funded R&D in space tech. (51:52) - Space tech's role in planetary sustainability (56:29) - Outro
We're joined by Toby Coppel, Founder and General Partner at Mosaic Ventures, who has been investing in the last multiple waves of AI. Toby's extensive career spans iconic firms like Netscape, AOL, & Yahoo, leading up to his current role at Mosaic Ventures, a prominent venture capital firm. He has been instrumental in significant investments, including a billion-dollar investment in Alibaba that yielded an $80 billion return for Yahoo shareholders. Toby provides an insider's perspective on the tech landscape, sharing invaluable lessons from his experiences with industry giants like Jerry Yang, Jack Ma, and Richard Branson. Toby elaborates on Mosaic's investment philosophy, highlighting their focus on Series A and late seed-stage investments. He explains how Mosaic supports startups post-investment, emphasizing their hands-on approach and commitment to founder success. Toby also discusses Mosaic's thematic investment strategy, particularly in the realm of machine learning applications, where they have been active since 2016. The conversation navigates through various waves of AI innovation, from early computer vision applications to the current era of generative AI and large language models. Toby shares his views on the evolving AI landscape, the challenges of training models, and the competitive dynamics of the AI industry. We also explore the potential impact of AI on the job market, the ethical considerations surrounding AI use, and the importance of regulation in fostering innovation while ensuring safety. Toby offers his insights on the future of AI applications, emphasizing the transformative potential of AI in consumer and enterprise contexts. Below is a quick synopsis of all the topics we cover: Tech Industry Evolution: Insights from Toby's career in tech, including significant investments and strategic decisions. Venture Capital Dynamics: Mosaic's unique approach to supporting startups and their focus on Series A investments. AI Innovations: A comprehensive look at the waves of AI advancements and the current state of AI technology. Market Conditions and Job Impact: Analysis of AI's impact on the job market and the ethical considerations involved. Future of AI Applications: Exploration of the potential for AI in consumer and enterprise applications. Regulatory Environment: The role of regulation in the development and deployment of AI technologies. Join us for an enlightening discussion as we explore the intersections of technology, venture capital, and AI with one of the industry's most experienced investors. Follow me, (@iwaheedo), for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets. Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode. (00:00) - Intro (02:50) - Toby's background and career journey (06:19) - Mosaic's investment philosophy and framework (08:17) - Investment stages and focus areas (08:53) - Supporting startups post-investment (09:45) - AI innovation waves and market dynamics (13:00) - Current AI landscape and competitive dynamics (17:15) - AI Investment Landscape and Mosaic's positions (23:30) - Large Language Model (LLM) - based Applications (36:23) - Future potential of AI applications (42:11) - Future direction of copyright protections for training data (45:46) - How Generative AI might reduce the cost of building applications? (49:31) - Impact of Generative AI on traditional job roles (52:48) - Europe's current position on AI (56:26) - Regulation in AI and its implications (61:43) - Outro
We're joined by Ash Arora, a Partner at LocalGlobe leading their Web3 practice, to discuss the intricacies of venture capital, blockchain, AI investments, and market dynamics. LocalGlobe, one of the leading early-stage venture capital firms in Europe, ranked #1 early stage fund in EMEA and #3 globally with highest number of unicorns in portfolio, with companies like SoRare, Copper, Robinhood, Wise, Figma, Twitter and LP in a16z, Sequoia etc. Ash shares insights into what sets LocalGlobe apart in the competitive VC landscape, including their comprehensive 52-parameter framework for evaluating investment opportunities and the unique support structure they offer to startups. Ash takes us through the specifics of their blockchain investments, highlighting significant successes such as Sorare, Copper, and Improbable. She explains the importance of due diligence, the unique value-add LocalGlobe provides post-investment, and their strategic approach to both pre-seed and growth-stage funding. The conversation also explores the current market conditions, comparing them to past tech cycles and discussing the resilience of early-stage investments amidst broader market slowdowns. Ash provides her perspective on the impact of tech layoffs and the dynamics of acquiring talent in a fluctuating market. In a detailed discussion on AI, Ash outlines LocalGlobe's broad investment strategy, covering everything from semiconductors to AI applications. She shares thoughts on the future of AI in the venture capital landscape, emphasizing the irreplaceable human touch in evaluating and supporting founders. Ash's expertise in blockchain is evident as she discusses the state of the market, the potential of DeFi, and the future of blockchain technology. She also touches on the regulatory environment and the importance of innovation-friendly policies. Below is a quick synopsis of all the topics we cover: Venture Capital Dynamics: How LocalGlobe maintains its edge with a unique evaluation framework and extensive founder support. Blockchain Investments: Key insights into successful blockchain investments and the future potential of blockchain technology. Market Conditions and Talent Acquisition: Analysis of current market trends and the impact on talent acquisition in tech. AI Investments: LocalGlobe's strategic approach to AI investments, from foundational models to application layers. Regulatory Environment: The role of regulation in fostering or stifling innovation in blockchain and AI. Join us for a comprehensive discussion as we explore the intersection of venture capital, blockchain, AI, and market trends with one of the industry's leading experts. Follow our host, Waheed Nabeel (@iwaheedo), for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets. Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode. (00:00) - Intro (02:39) - Ash Arora's background and role at LocalGlobe (04:40) - LocalGlobe's unique investment criteria and framework (10:23) - Supporting startups post-investment (13:11) - Investment stages and focus areas (15:24) - Current market conditions and tech layoffs (23:12) - AI investment strategy and market mapping (28:08) - The future of AI and its impact on VC (34:07) - Blockchain market analysis and investment thesis (38:29) - Layer 2 solutions and blockchain infrastructure (46:25) - Meme coins and market dynamics (48:46) - Regulation in blockchain and AI (50:06) - Intersection of AI and blockchain (51:45) - Outro Full Disclaimer: The views, opinions, and thoughts expressed by the guest in this communication are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the hosting entity or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. The hosting entity and its affiliates do not endorse, recommend, or assume any responsibility for any investment decisions made based on the information provided. Always seek the advice of a qualified financial advisor before making any financial decisions.
We're joined by tech billionaire and investor Christian Angermayer to discuss the 'Next Human Agenda,' i.e., the technological bets he's taking and how they will shape the future of humanity (in terms of computing, health, society, and governments). Over the past 20 years, Christian has been involved in directly building a lot of unicorns and decacorns and has been involved in more than 50 IPOs or exits in the public stock market. Christian is an active thought leader himself, and is affiliated with the World Economic Forum as a Young Global Leader. He's a partner of the Munich security conference and advisor to President Paul Kagame of Rwanda, and also a founding member of President Macron's scale-up Europe initiative. Christian's family office, Apeiron Investment Group, has more than 3 billion US dollars of assets under management and invests across life sciences, fintech, crypto, future tech, experience, hospitality, and happiness. He runs the Angermayer policy initiative and innovation forum, which convenes international heads of State, investors, politicians, and scientists to come together to discuss global priorities. Christian is also passionate about mental health and runs the Aurora Institute, which is the first nonprofit incubator of its kind focused on funding the world's leading individuals and NGOs related to solving the global mental health crisis. We cover a wide array of topics: -The Rise of AI and the Future of Society: What will society look like with full AI/AGI adoption, and how can we prepare for it? -Revolutionizing Biotech and Psychedelics: Gain insights into the ground-breaking developments in biotech and psychedelics, exploring their potential to revolutionize healthcare and mental health treatment. -The Middle Eastern Innovation Landscape: Christian shares insights into the burgeoning tech scene in the Middle East, particularly in countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia, where governments are fostering environments conducive to technological advancement and biotech innovation. -Geopolitical Realities and Multipolarity: Reflecting on the evolving geopolitical landscape, Christian discusses the strategic maneuvers of emerging powers like China and Russia, as well as the savvy diplomacy of smaller nations seeking to navigate the complexities of a multipolar world. -Brexit and the Future of Europe: Offering astute observations on Brexit and its implications for the UK and Europe, Christian explores the missed opportunities and potential pitfalls in Britain's departure from the European Union while also reflecting on the broader trajectory of the European project. -Harnessing Innovation for Global Challenges: Christian emphasizes the transformative potential of technological innovation in addressing pressing global challenges, from climate change to economic development, underscoring the importance of agile governance and strategic investment in fostering sustainable solutions. Join us for an illuminating discussion as we explore the dynamics of technological disruption, geopolitical strategy, and the imperative of innovation in shaping the future of our interconnected world. Follow our host, Waheed Nabeel (@iwaheedo), for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets. Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode. (00:00) - Intro (03:20) - What's the vision Christian has of the world 100 years from now? (11:06) - Does the unprecedented speed of technological advancement today, exemplified by OpenAI's rapid user growth, amplify the risk of social dislocation during these transitions, given historical trends of slower adoption? (14:08) - Can AI be perceived as both a catalyst for economic growth and a potential threat to traditional employment, considering its capacity to exponentially increase productivity and revenue, thereby prompting a discussion on the balance between efficiency and human labor? (17:50) - What actionable steps are recommended for individuals who may not be deeply engaged in tech discussions to prepare for the impact of AI and automation on their professions over the next decade, and what role should governments play in facilitating this transition? (22:39) - Use of Psychedelics for mental health problems (39:31) - What is the 'Next Human Agenda'? (47:47) - What breakthroughs can we expect in longevity research funding, and can we foresee substantial increases in human lifespan in the near future? (52:25) - How does the concept of biological age influence Christian's research, especially in relation to the lifestyles of centenarians in blue zones, and what implications does this have for longevity strategies? (56:51) - In the face of rapid technological disruption, what role do governments in the 21st century play? (60:22) - How can we address the short-term focus of politicians, especially in democracies, to ensure effective long-term planning for the future? (64:24) - How can we manage increasing debt in Western countries amidst the challenge of implementing unpopular but crucial policies for long-term fiscal stability? (67:27) - Less government intervention, like libertarians versus more regulation, as seen in Europe's approach to innovation? (69:00) - Do you think pharmaceutical innovation has been slowed by regulation compared to the faster progress seen in less regulated fields like computer science? (74:13) - Are there any government models you've encountered that effectively balance stability with the disruptive nature of technology, ensuring stable infrastructure alongside technological progress? (77:26) - Do you support the idea of city-states as a governance model reminiscent of the early United States, where states held significant governance roles, and do you see the potential for a revival of this approach? (81:12) - How can governments adopt lean methodologies for faster decision-making? (83:05) - Is there a burgeoning innovation hub in the Middle East, separate from Europe and the US, particularly considering your operations in emerging market countries like the UAE and Rwanda? (85:18) - Does Christian see a move towards a multipolar world, with rising powers like China and Russia challenging US dominance, and how do you view the strategic actions of smaller nations navigating this shift? (87:10) - What are Christian's thoughts on the trajectory of the European project, especially with the UK's exit from the EU and the challenges it poses, such as demographic aging and its impact on the tech landscape? (90:28) - What fuels Christian's optimism amidst the prevailing dystopian views, leading you to believe that technology and innovation will be our salvation rather than our downfall?
We welcomed the author of the new book "The Levelling", Mike O'Sullivan, who's spent 20 years thinking and writing on macro economy and politics. He also served as the Chief Investment Officer at Credit Suisse and is the CEO of Harvest Innovation Advisory. We cover the end of globalisation, the future of democracy, economics, finance, geopolitics, and nation-building in the post-globalisation era. In the episode, we cover a range of topics: -Assessment of Globalisation: Critical examination of the concept of globalisation, probing its evolution, successes, and shortcomings, particularly in light of mounting debt, economic dependencies, and democratic deficits. -Geopolitical Realities: The shifting dynamics of global power & democracy, from the dominance of the West to the rise of multipolarity -Rethinking Economic Paradigms: Importance of R&D, education, and a conducive regulatory environment for fostering organic economic growth and escaping debt trap -Challenges of Development: Role of international institutions such as the IMF, leadership credibility, and effectiveness in managing financial crises (examples from Greece & Argentina) -Navigating Technological Complexity: The profound impact of technology on every aspect of society, from AI and blockchain to the fragmentation of media and its implications for democracy and social cohesion. Join us for this action-packed episode as we explore the growing backlash against globalisation and the future of global relations and economic growth potential. Follow our host Waheed Nabeel (@iwaheedo), for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets. Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode. (00:00) - Intro (02:13) - Mike's background (03:38) - How globalisation led to increased economic integration? (06:54) - Why is the end of globalisation such a big issue? (09:56) - What are the biggest challenges of the next 30 years? (12:11) - Why is democracy under threat? (14:02) - How can we revive democracies? (17:18) - How can the effectiveness of governance in delivering tangible improvements to quality of life be assessed, particularly in contexts where traditional democratic norms may not be strictly followed, such as in Singapore or Rwanda? (20:20) - Where did The UK went wrong? (23:49) - How does Japan's economic performance challenge traditional notions of debt sustainability, especially in comparison to countries like the US and UK, and what implications does this have for the application of modern monetary theory (MMT) on a global scale? (25:52) - Why are we obsessed with debt? (28:31) - How do countries achieve organic economic growth? (32:14) - What is the well-being economy? (35:01) - How will this evolving digital landscape shape our societal values and political affiliations on a global scale? (40:38) - How should nations think about development and economic growth? (43:37) - Outro
In season 2, we kick-off with America's foremost foreign policy scholar, Dr. Joseph Nye, the former Assistant Secretary of Defense and former Dean of Harvard Kennedy School of Government, to talk about how the American Century has shaped our civilization and what lies ahead in the road. Dr. Nye shares his profound insights on: - His personal reflections from his latest released book - The essence and impact of soft power, hard power and 'smart' power in shaping international relations, drawing from his extensive experience and academic work - Analyzing the concept of the "American Century," its historical context, and its relevance in today's shifting global order - Discussing the strategic challenges and opportunities presented by nuclear non-proliferation, with a focus on his contributions during the Carter administration - Providing a forward-looking perspective on the rise of Asia, particularly China and India, and the implications for global economic and political dynamics - Navigating through the complexities of U.S. foreign policy, from its triumphs to its missteps, and envisioning the path forward in an increasingly multipolar world - His thoughts on contemporary wars: from Israel-Palestine to Ukraine-Russia Accompanying Dr. Nye, we're privileged to have our very dear friend of the pod, Jon Cayzer who's a UK civil servant, adding depth to the conversation with his expertise and experience in public services and policy advising. Join us as Dr. Joseph Nye artfully connects past influences with present challenges, offering a roadmap for understanding and navigating the future of international relations. Follow our host Waheed Nabeel (@iwaheedo), for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets. Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode. (00:00) - Introduction to Joseph Nye and his seminal contributions (02:13) - Nye's background and defining moments in global politics (07:04) - The American Century revisited: implications for global leadership (12:50) - The evolution and significance of soft power in the modern era (14:47) - Is the U.S.'s current foreign policy, particularly its support for Israel's actions in Gaza, leading to a decrease in its soft power, similar to the impact of the Iraq War? (16:46) - Is the current perceived political polarization in the U.S. truly unprecedented, or is it a return to historical levels of division experienced in past eras like the FDR presidency? (18:36) - Can the U.S. and China avoid the Thucydides Trap and prevent military conflict? (23:56) - Should Ukraine join NATO? (25:14) - Is China, despite its hard power, struggling to amplify its soft power on the global stage? (28:05) - How can a small country effectively increase its soft power—is it through cultural promotion like the British Council and Confucius Institute, or are there other strategies? (29:46) - In light of populism and Brexit, how can the UK rejuvenate its smart power and reestablish its international standing post-EU? (32:16) - How do advancements in technology and AI affect a country's balance of soft and hard power? (33:36) - Does the fragmentation of media through technologies like social media endanger the consensus-building essential to democracy in the 21st century? (35:32) - How can America, known for its innovation, adapt its foundational principles and values for future generations to bridge to the next century, moving beyond the notion of American exceptionalism? (37:35) - Discussing the shift in American values from 1998 to 2023, how has the perception of patriotism and other core values evolved over time? (27:20) - Analyzing Asia's rise and its global ramifications (33:35) - The interplay of technology, AI, and international relations (36:50) - Envisioning the future of diplomacy and international cooperation (39:07) - Outro
On this African development-focused episode, we're joined by Dr. Pádraig Carmody, a distinguished professor at Trinity College, University of Dublin, and the author of the book "The New Scramble for Africa." Professor Carmody guides us through a thought-provoking discussion: -Unpacking the historical context of African scrambles and their enduring impact on the continent -Defining what a scramble is and how it shaped the socio-economic landscape of Africa -Examining the parallels between historical scrambles and the contemporary challenges affecting Africa today -Insightful analysis of the new scramble (e.g. with China) and its implications for the region's economic trajectory -Exploring the potential future of African development and the key factors that will shape it We were also joined by, Jon Cayzer, who is a British civil servant and has worked in Africa for several decades. Follow our host Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo), for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets. You can follow us on our socials for the latest updates of the Innovation Civilization Podcast Instagram: https://tinyurl.com/mw75d5v3 LinkedIn: https://tinyurl.com/m7rr7sms Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@innovationcivilizationpodcast We're open to collaboration and want to hear your thoughts Website: https://www.empasco.com Email: info@empasco.com Pod Host: waheed@empasco.com Pod Manager: mahir@empasco.com Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode. (00:00) - Intro (01:35) - What drove Professor Carmody into writing a book on the scramble for Africa? (04:43) - In delving into the first scramble for Africa and the influential Berlin Conference, what were the key motivations driving European powers? (10:58) - Is the scramble for Africa solely driven by asset stripping for the benefit of the global economy in what we now term the global north, or are their elements of a transformative vision aiming to uplift and shape the continent in a different way? (19:09) - Did the historical division of Africa during the scramble leave lasting consequences on the persistence of poverty and the trajectory of economic development in the region? (25:13) - How did the historical dynamics affect the current state of institutions in Africa? (27:55) - How does Professor Carmody envision African states overcoming the challenges of comparative advantage and distance to become potent catalysts for innovation? (32:57) - How does Rwanda's success, characterized by policy certainty, stand out as a potential model for other Sub-Saharan African countries grappling with similar issues? (40:59) - How are technological advancements impacting job markets across the continent, and what strategies can African nations adopt to navigate the potential challenges posed by the rapid integration of AI technologies? (43:42) - What are China's vision for Africa and the strategies they are employing to realize this vision, providing insight into their approach and objectives in the region? (50:55) - The role of industrial policy in fostering economic diversification and specialization and lessons African nations could glean from these examples in shaping their economic strategies. (52:16) - Is there a unique role that Africa can play in reimagining the global economy, offering solutions that transcend the limitations of the previous neoliberal frameworks? (58:46) - Outro
From the technology used to build pyramids by Ancient Egyptians to blockchain & AI today, there's tremendous continuity in how technologies developed. We're joined by Dr. Christian de Vartavan, a distinguished Egyptologist whose contributions include 10 seminal works in Egyptology and an impressive tally of 40 scientific discoveries. Beyond his expertise in Egyptology, Christian is also recognized as a technologist and an accomplished authority in blockchain and artificial intelligence who regularly advises the UK government on the strategic integration of these emerging technologies. We have also been joined by our Empasco director, Mohammad Syed. (@MohammadSyed159) Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that spans across epochs, connecting the wisdom of ancient civilizations with the forefront of modern technological innovation. In this episode, we delve into: -Christian's journey from the realms of Egyptology to the forefront of blockchain and AI -The parallels and intersections between ancient civilizations and cutting-edge technology -Insights into his ground-breaking scientific discoveries and their implications for the modern world -The role of blockchain and AI in shaping the future of media, society, and beyond -A reflection on his family's legacy of advisory roles in royal, presidential, and governmental spheres, influencing trade, business, economics, and science. Follow our host Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo), for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets. Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode. (00:00) - Intro (03:15) - Christian's background in Egyptology (04:50) - About Christian's technological advisory role for the UK government (06:41) - Technologies in Ancient Egypt (10:20) - Views on the Pyramid making process (13:01) - Controversial perspectives related to the Pyramids (19:06) - Have we forgotten how to build a Pyramid? (21:32) - Are we facing a modern-day puzzle with artificial intelligence, much like the ancient mysteries that confounded civilizations? (30:24) - Do AI and blockchain technologies pose a risk of widening societal disparities? Is there a global divergence in AI approaches among countries? (35:27) - How are we planning to enforce standards in regulating AI? (37:53) - Amidst growing distrust in giants like Google and Facebook and a rise in anti-globalism, how does society navigate diminishing faith in both private and global institutions? (42:06) - Considering the unmet expectations, boom-and-bust cycles, and recent downturn, what is the current assessment of the state and future direction of crypto and blockchain technology? (51:05) - What are the scopes of these technological development related to Christian's proprietary tech at Projectus that focuses on the classification of knowledge and the philosophy of the internet? (54:29) - How does Christian envision the future of statecraft, shaped by the concept of network states on the internet? (60:07) - Outro
In this episode, we sat down with Professor Dr. Salim Ayduz, a distinguished expert in Ottoman science and technology delving into the rich tapestry of technical innovations that helped create the Ottoman Empire's 600+ year tri-continental legacy. In the episode, we cover: -the forgotten pioneers of Ottoman science & technology -the social, political, and economic dynamics that influenced Ottoman innovation -comparative analysis of Ottoman and Western scientific and technological progress -challenges the empire faced in keeping pace with the changing world Tune in to this enlightening episode that reveals the hidden chapters of Ottoman innovation, while also shedding new light on the challenges the empire faced as it navigated the currents of change across the centuries. Follow our host Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo), for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets. Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode. (00:00) - Intro (02:15) - Professor Salim's background (04:10) - Origin of the Ottoman Empire and why there is a lack of information on the Ottoman innovation landscape? (11:44) - What is the Professor's research methodology when it comes to consuming knowledge and researching Ottoman innovation and inventions? (15:35) - Ottoman's contribution to astronomy and astrology (26:35) - Ottoman's contribution to mathematics (31:45) - The inception and mass adoption of gunpowder and cannons in the Ottoman era (36:11) - Notable innovations and inventions during the Ottoman period (43:59) - The socio-political dynamics that influenced the decline of Ottoman contribution to science and technology (50:49) - Challenges the empire faced in keeping pace with the changing world (57:20) - Classical books reading recommendation by Professor on Ottoman innovation (59:00) - Outro
On this episode, we're joined by serial entrepreneur and CEO of Manna Bobby Healy (@realBobbyHealy) who runs one of the Top 5 drone delivery companies in the world. We also welcomed back a friend of the pod Pamir Sevincel, Partner at Blackbird. Join us as we talk about the ins and outs of a fundamental technology that'll terraform the way we live: last-mile drone delivery. In this episode, we cover: -Bobby's entrepreneurial journey and the lessons learned along the way -The genesis of Manna and the vision for drone-powered deliveries -The environmental impact of replacing traditional delivery vehicles with drones - Business models and venture funding landscape: current, future and past. - Advice to founders building hardware-heavy companies -The challenges and opportunities in the emerging drone delivery industry -The future of on-demand delivery and its potential to reshape urban living Follow our host Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo), for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets. Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode. (00:00) - Intro (02:25) - Bobby's journey to leading several successful startups (03:16) - What is Manna Aero? (07:50) - Use case of drone delivery for E-commerce businesses (15:04) - Replacing traditional delivery vehicles with drones? (20:00) - How feasible is drone delivery in rural/suburban areas? (22:21) - Economic impact on suburban drone delivery (26:01) - Challenges in the delivery drone industry (33:12) - What factors make places like Texas particularly appealing for startups and investors in the consumer business sector? What should be the focus of startups in the drone delivery space: profitability or scalability? (40:02) - Can AI-generated models help optimize drone delivery services? (52:56) - Future of on-demand delivery and the impending challenges (65:12) - Competitive Advantage and Unique Value Proposition of Manna (67:48) - Quick Fire Round
We're joined at Empasco by the former Prime Minister of Estonia Taavi Roivas, who ran and built both sets of organizations: leading the highest political office of one of the most technologically advanced EU governments and now also being a technology entrepreneur to a hard tech startup doing mobilities. In the episode, we cover: - the confluence of technology and politics in shaping the future - can you run governments like tech startups? Similarities and differences. - education & what young people should study - the challenges that tech brings to democracies - AI, crypto, de-dollarisation and hot takes on the recent mega-trends with how governments should respond. Follow our host Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo), for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets. Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode. (00:00) - Intro (02:37) - Taavi's academic and political backstory (08:34) - How did Taavi successfully balance youth political engagement and academic pursuits, particularly in technology and science, while maintaining a harmonious environment towards a shared vision? (11:16) - What are the key similarities and differences in running a political organization compared to a technology or private organization? (14:14) - How is Auve Tech transforming the public transport sector? (19:46) - How can we encourage more individuals interested in societal development to engage in politics with a genuine understanding of technology? (25:30) - Should the use of disruptive contemporary tech like AI be heavily regulated? (30:58) - How can governments achieve self-disruption, akin to companies like Amazon, while simultaneously maintaining stability for society? How to navigate the trade-off between embracing change and ensuring stability (38:54) - Thoughts on the notion of the United States being in decline and the emergence of a more multipolar world? How would such shifts impact smaller countries and the field of technology? (41:14) - What should the government's approach be for the use of cryptocurrencies? (44:18) - What is the government's stance on the potentially destabilizing effects of technology, particularly social media and digitization, on democracy, considering concerns about the influence of platforms like Facebook and Twitter in shaping election outcomes? (50:16) - Quick Fire Round (53:40) - Outro
In this episode, we're joined by one of the founding faculties of Stanford's technology ethics course. Professor Rob Reich is the author of the recently published book "System Error: Where Big Tech Went Wrong & How We Can Reboot." In the face of society-altering AI and advancing technologies, we confront pressing ethical and societal challenges. How do we address them effectively without letting technology wreak havoc? In the episode, we discuss: -how technology is reshaping our society -the problem with the efficiency and optimization-only mindset -the ethical and social impact of the digital technologies -the problems with big tech -is democracy fit for purpose in the age of tech Join us as we analyze the critical challenges faced by the digital society and present thought-frameworks for a feasible system reboot. Follow our host Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo), for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets. Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode. (00:00)- Intro (03:31)- Origin story of the book -"System Error: Where Big Tech Went Wrong & How We Can Reboot." (05:17)- Does the specialization of knowledge witnessed in the past 2 centuries contribute more to our advancement or impede it? (09:56)- Is optimization bad for us? (13:23)- Is "stakeholder capitalism" the only way forward (14:26)- Is our current form of democracy optimized sufficiently to guide us towards the right conclusions amidst the rapid acceleration of technological advancements? (19:08)- Is sacrificing short-term prosperity for long-term stability and collective success worthwhile for societies pursuing lasting progress? (20:26)- How can we ensure that our institutions are adept at crafting agile regulations that can effectively address the evolving landscape of technology? (27:01)- How to strike a balance between implementing essential guardrails and the potential risk of losing innovation and economic benefits to jurisdictions with more permissive regulations? (30:32)- What are the limitations and potential drawbacks of relying solely on experts and dismissing the input and perspectives of the general public on important issues? (32:50)- How can we navigate towards a more balanced approach that incorporates stakeholder capitalism? (38:02)- How to assess the ongoing exploration and search for effective governance and cap table structures that successfully balance social impact and economic incentives? (39:00)- What is the problem with Big Tech? (41:25)- Outro
Centuries before the official Renaissance of Europe began as we deem it, there was a part of Europe (i.e. Muslim Spain) which already begun the 'Renaissance' and made the region a powerhouse of innovation and prosperity that would go on to shape the world we live in today. A tale of technical innovations, pluralistic cohabiting of various religions, and translation of ideas that formed our modern universities/libraries today. We uncover a part of history that is often overlooked; our host Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo), delves into the 700-year Muslim rule in Spain - or Al-Andalus as it was called. He is joined by Dr. Elizabeth Drayson, Emeritus Fellow and Senior Lecturer at the University of Cambridge and author of four books on medieval Spanish history who takes us on a journey through the incredible scientific, cultural, economic, and diplomatic innovations that emerged during this time. In the episode we cover, -the rise of Muslim rule in Spain -the development of science (astronomy, mathematics, agriculture, & medicine, etc.) in Muslim Spain that laid the foundations for all modern innovation and inventions - Jewish-Muslim-Christian cohabitation and relations in Muslim Spain. - The 'Golden Age for the Jews' and the tale of Jewish Viziers (Prime ministers) of Islamic emirates - The Arabic-to-Latin translation movement - Lessons from 'Convivencia' for the contemporary world Join us as we uncover the hidden gems of history and showcase the incredible innovations that have shaped our world today. Follow our host Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo), for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets. Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode. (00:00) - Intro (03:15) - The emergence of Islamic Spain or Al-Andalus (06:07) - The historical significance of the region (07:49) - Exchange of Knowledge: Golden age of Jews under Muslims (16:28) - The contribution of Islamic Spain to modern technologies in the fields of scientific development, innovation, politics, & Governance (25:27) - Knowledge transfer: Importance of the Translation Movement (34:01) - What were some of the shortcomings or failures of Islamic rule in Spain, and how did they impact its legacy and relevance in modern times? (38:31) - How can we apply the lessons of historical collaboration and coexistence between different peoples and faiths to address contemporary conflicts and tensions in the world? (40:58) - Outro
How to build a digital-native nation? How to use digital-native design to solve voter fraud and corruption? For an action-packed episode with an actual builder of digital governments, our host Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo) takes the seat with one of the world's most influential people in the field of digital governance, Siim Sikkut. (@sikkut) The man who led Estonia's groundbreaking E-residency program and also played a builder role as the Estonian government's former Chief Information Officer (CIO). Siim is also the author of the book ‘Digital Government Excellence: Lessons from Effective Digital Leaders” and helps policymakers and technologists around the globe in building future-ready digital societies. On the episode we cover: -the fundamentals of building a digital nation -E-residency, virtual identity programs for non-residents -Estonian government's technological and legal approach to transforming the country into one of the most advanced digital nations in the world -strategies and policies needed to launch and steer development initiatives and regulations -how to use digital design solutions in overcoming issues such as voter fraud, tax fraud, corruption and enabling agile policymaking in government -how to collaborate with relevant stakeholders on policies concerning technology and digital adoption -how to use the best practices of scalable startups in innovating solutions for citizens Follow our host Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo) for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets. Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode. (00:00) - Intro (04:05) - Siim's background in digital government (06:44) - What is the reason for the Tiger Leap Initiative originating in Estonia? (08:14) - What is unique about the Estonian government's digital Program? (13:49) - How was the issue of building citizens' trust addressed in Estonia governments' digital program initiatives? (15:45) - What approaches were taken to address the problem of voter fraud? (25:25) - What steps were taken to communicate to government stakeholders and ministers that the process was iterative and there was a risk of failure, and how were they convinced of the importance of taking such risks in pursuing e-government progress? (28:00) - Revenue model of the E-Residency program of Estonia (33:13) - In what ways were digital solutions leveraged to combat corruption and enhance transparency? (36:32) - What are the best practices for smaller countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America that are interested in adopting a more digital government approach similar to the Estonian model? (43:25) - what approach do you think is more effective for politicians in terms of giving remits and prescriptions to civil servants for technology initiatives? (45:48) - What lessons can be learned from the failures of digital governments, and what traps do government officials commonly encounter on their digital journeys? (48:21) - Quick Fire Round (50:10) - Outro
Why are some nations rich whilst others are poor? Why is Mexico much poorer than the United States? Why is Latin America so fundamentally different from North America? How is it possible that an average American is 40 times richer than an average Sierra Leonean? Is it climate, geography, culture, or could it be the ignorance of domestic leaders? Our ICP host Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo) sits down for an exhilarating episode probing the fundamental reasons why nations develop differently with none other than the world-renowned British economist and New-York Times best-selling author of the book "Why Nations Fail: The Origins of Power, Prosperity & Poverty" - James Robinson. In the episode, we cover: -the basics of institution building -the key differences between inclusive & extractive economic/political institutions and their impact on economies -what spurred development in some parts of the world and why others lagged behind -historical context behind what led to the rise and fall of nations -how to develop sustainable political and economic systems for successful nation building Follow our host Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo),, for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets. Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode. (00:00) - Introduction (05:54) - James's background and what motivated him to study about institutions, economics & nations? (11:09) - Significance of democracy for nation building (13:22) - Definition and importance of political/economic institutions (14:07) - Characteristics of inclusive and extractive institutions (16:51) - How can political centralization drive economic growth? (19:41) - Are inclusive institutions more democratic? (21:02) - Does democracy ensure economic development? (23:12) - Was the Industrial Revolution the biggest source of inequality in the world? (28:08) - Examples of nations with extractive forms of institutions (30:47) - Impact of European Colonialism on poor countries (35:57) - What sort of political/economic system drove China's economic growth? (40:36) - Is China's growth sustainable given the current authoritarian regime/institution policies? (42:56) - How do geography and culture impact economic development? (48:17) - What do virtuous and vicious circles mean in light of developing political/economic institutions? (58:05) - Outro
Founded by the infamous Genghis Khan in 1206, the Mongol Empire created the 2nd largest kingdom in the history of the planet. What's less well known is that Mongol rule ushered in a plethora of technological innovation and development that shaped the formative years in trade & science infrastructure of a land mass spanning all the way to the East from Korea, through China, Central Asia, Russia, Persia and to even Eastern Europe parts like Crimea and modern day Ukraine. In an attempt to excavate and summarise the lasting impact the Mongol innovation, technology and governance had on the world, Empasco Partner Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo) sits with historian and Financial Times best-selling author, Marie Favereau. Marie is an Associate Professor of History at Paris Nanterre University. She has been a member of the French Institute of Oriental Archaeology in Cairo, a visiting scholar at the Institute for Advanced Study, and a research associate at the University of Oxford for the major project Nomadic Empires. Her books include The Horde: How the Mongols Changed the World (https://www.amazon.com/Horde-How-Mongols-Changed-World/dp/0674244214) and the Mamluk Sultanate (published in French) and the graphic novel Genghis Khan. In the episode we cover: -the reason for the rise of the Mongol Empire in the 13th & 14th CE. -long-term innovation view that the Mongols took in terms of funding projects -the strategies they took to set up the agricultural production and taxation systems throughout the kingdom -how they built and sustained the system for continuous innovation processes in areas such as astronomy, agriculture, maths, medicine, trade, botany, etc. -Early forms of democracy in the Mongol empires - The reasons for the downfall of the Mongol empire Follow our host Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo) for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets. Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode. (00:00) - Intro (06:10) - Marie's background & inspiration for writing a book on Mongol innovation and tech history (08:05) - Who were the Mongols? (11:08) - What is the "Horde"? (13:33) - Were the Mongols just people who ravaged and conquered land through coercion and fear-mongering? (20:10) - What Military technology did the Mongols use? (27:38) - Mongol innovation,tech,governanace history (39:36) - Mongol economics (42:39) - Mongol system of wealth distribution (43:28) - How did the Mongols manage the Silk Road? (45:52) - About the creation of the largest integrated market in Pre-modern history (47:43) - How did the Mongols set up the infrastructure and economy of the cities within the empire? (52:40) - What was the Mongols' foreign policy to attract new trade and develop connections? (59:23) - The Mongol land law (61:25) - How did taxation help with the agricultural production? (62:30) - What led to the downfall of the Mongol Empire? (65:26) - Mongol Governance We used the world's most advanced AI 'DALL·E 2' by @OpenAI to generate the episode cover art. Special thanks to Pamir Sevincel (@PamirSevincel) We made this episode a special listening experience btw. Mongolian throat singing & classical instruments used: Yoochin- hammered dulcimer of varying strings struck using two bamboo hammers Khuuchir- two- or four-stringed instrument with a small sound box
The defining periods in world history have always come about as a result of successful change management and revolutionary leadership. Reflecting on the last 2 decades of rapid flux coupled with the ongoing global unrest in trade, politics, and commerce arising from a looming global recession, the Ukraine-Russia War and the after-effects of COVID19 calls for a timely occasion on navigating through the factors leading to successful change management and leadership. For an educative and thrilling episode on understanding the golden principles of change management and how public and private organizations can thrive in an era of rapid flux, we bring you the most revered and one of Time Magazine's top 25 most influential authors ever on business and management - Professor John P. Kotter.(@JohnPKotter) He is the best-selling author, The Konosuke Matshishita Professor of Leadership, Emeritus at the Harvard Business School, award-winning business and management thought leader and founder of one of the leading management consulting firms, Kotter International - a leadership management organization for the Global 5000 company leaders. He is the author of 22 books, 12 of them bestsellers - on business, management, leadership, strategy execution, and transformation and his work has been published in over 150+ foreign languages. In the episode, we cover: -how Professor Kotter's 8-step change framework and 8 accelators can be applied in today's management processes -how private and public organizations can implement and manage change -the key distinctions between management and leadership -functions of organizational lifecycles and dual operating system -how big corporations can incorporate the startup mentality -whether leadership training is necessary Follow our host Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo) for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets. Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode. (00:00) - Intro (06:26) - Professor John P. Kotter's background (10:25) - How should modern firm's react to the level of rapid change? (12:44) - Is the 8-step change model still relevant today? (15:34) - Is the 8 accelerators similar to the 8-step change framework? What are the accelators needed for? (16:44) - How to implement and manage change amidst the ever changing nature of work? (19:47) - Management vs leadership (29:59) - How are hierarchies and networks connected to the organizational life cycle? (35:52) - Use case example of dual operating system (39:19) - How to incorporate a startup mentality in large organizations? (43:51) - How does change management differ for public vs private organizations? (46:43) - Rapid-fire round: Getting to know more about the guest (49:47) - About Professor Kotter's most recent book - "Change" (52:43) - Can we train people to become better leaders? (54:20) - Outro
China boasts the largest fintech ecosystem in the world having a penetration rate of 87% and a total transaction volume of $51.8 trillion via mobile payments only (three times the country's GDP). The country is setting strong examples for the rest of the world to follow as it continues to develop cashless innovation systems positing road maps and processes for a shared digital currency future. The largely cashless economy is fundamentally changing the very nature of money as it emerges as the world's financial technology leader. How are they doing that? For an exclusive episode unpacking the FinTech infrastructure of China and its growing dominance in the world of tech-driven financial services, we sat down with one of the leading experts in FinTech and Innovations, Rich Turrin.(@richardturrin) Rich is the author of the best-selling books Cashless: China's Digital Currency Revolution (https://www.amazon.com/Cashless-Chinas-Digital-Currency-Revolution/dp/1949642720) and Innovation Lab Excellence. (https://www.amazon.com/Innovation-Lab-Excellence-Digital-Transformation-ebook/dp/B07PMF4YFL) He is an award-winning fintech innovation expert previously heading fintech teams at IBM, following a twenty-year career heading trading teams at global investment banks where he spent a large part of his career in Shanghai witnessing China's cashless revolution upfront. In the episode we deep-dive into: -the design and innovation processes that set up the Chinese FinTech infrastructure -the core reasons behind the massive adaptation of cashless payment systems in China -how the country incentivized its private tech firms to develop and encourage large scale FinTech solutions by provisioning banking licenses for them - comparison of NFC payment systems (Square, ApplePay, etc) vs Chinese payment rails (like Alipay) - QR codes as a tool for widespread fintech adoption in China -how China's central bank digital currency (CBDC) can transform and replace standard payment systems like SWIFT -how CBDC differs from ETH/BTC -how and why the west is falling behind when it comes to fintech -the rise of CBDCs and policy implications for the Emerging Market countries Follow our host Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo) for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets. Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode. (00:00) - Intro (03:22) - Rich's journey to writing "Cashless: China's Digital Currency Revolution (05:17) - Key differences between the Chinese society and the American society (07:51) - Why has the West fallen behind in terms of major fintech adaption vs China? (11:17) - What is the reason behind the rapid FinTech adoption in China? What makes the Chinese FinTech so special? (15:56) - What is Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC)? Why should we care about it? (21:28) - Emergence of the early cashless payment systems (QR codes, NFC, etc.) (27:36) - Advantages of having CBDCs compared to the contemporary FinTech payment solutions (Ali Pay, WeChat pay, Apple pay, etc.) (34:48) - Crypto maximalist viewpoint vs CBDC (36:00) - Disadvantages to having CBDC (38:58) - How would CBDCs change/replace the current money transfer system platform such as SWIFT? (50:36) - Impacts on western policies (53:24) - When will CBDCs get launched? What stage is it in right now? (56:03) - How is China breaking the tech industry? (59:42) - How should policymakers in Emerging/Frontier markets think about CBDCs? Music used in this episode: Reverie Millenary | by PoKeR、李大白k (A tune inspired by one of the most famed female figures of ancient China, Empress Wu Zetian. it tells the story of an educated young lady employed in the palace for her academic talents. Through a variety of circumstances and political struggles, she eventually found her way up to the top as the Emperor of Tang Dynasty China, where her talents ushered the ancient kingdom into a golden era of economic momentum.)
60 gigatons of Carbon Dioxide (Co2) is discharged into the atmosphere every year. Co2 levels are now higher than they have been in at least 800,000 years making climate change the number 1 threat faced by mankind. What tech to invest in in order to 'unf*** the planet'? For a momentous & thrilling episode on understanding the successful approach of high-risk tech investing in combatting the climate change crises, our host at Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo) sat down with Danijel Visevic (@visevic) - the Founding General Partner of World Fund, Europe's biggest climate tech VC fund. We cover : - the fundamentals & purpose of climate tech investing - the mechanics of a climate tech fund - how to manage LP expectations - Key technologies to invest in to undo the effects of climate change - Climate change policy prescriptions for government Follow our host Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo) for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets. Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode. (00:00) - Intro (03:05) - Danijel's journey to becoming a leading climate tech investor (05:34) - World Fund's investment thesis for decarbonizing the planet (07:44) - Distinction between climate tech and clean tech (09:39) - Climate tech investing fund mechanics (12:24) - What are the upsides or downsides to being a dedicated fund vs private VCs like Sequoia & SoftBank (14:31) - The purpose of investing in climate tech (16:47) - Managing Limited Partner's (LP) expectations - How to prioritize between short-term profit maximization vs sustainability? (23:28) - Technologies that can help minimize the impact of climate change (25:07) - What makes Europe the most suitable place for climate tech investing? (28:11) - The different stages of fundraising for a climate tech startup (29:50) - How is World Fund developing the climate tech ecosystem in Europe? (31:13) - Next-generation climate tech innovations to look forward to (35:25) - What immediate policies can government undertake in mitigating the effect of climate change crises (40:07) - Outro
Given how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is eating our civilization, it's essential to sketch out its first principles and ethical dimensions. We are joined by one of the world's leading AI/ML experts in former founder and co-lead at Google's AI ethical division, and the founder of Ethical AI LLC Margaret Mitchell (@mmitchell_ai) who speaks to our Empasco Co-Founder Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo) on the fundamentals of artificial intelligence ethics and global value structures. Margaret has published more than 50 blockbuster papers on vision-language and grounded language generation concentrating on the evolution of AI towards achieving positive goals. She is vastly famous for her work on the instinctive elimination of undesired biases concerning demographic groups from machine learning models. And her work is utilized by some of the biggest companies in the world. Margaret was also the founding member of Microsoft's ethical AI group. In this episode, we talk about: - what is exactly AI? - what's machine learning vs deep learning? -the first principles of Ethical AI -various types of bias and the existence of a 'good' and 'bad' bias as key components to building an AI model -how governments and policymakers can evaluate ethical AI models -development of AI in the western world vs the Emerging markets -the possible utopian, dystopian and realistic predictions of a society fully adopting AI Follow our host Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo) for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets. Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode. (00:00) - Intro (06:03) - Margaret's background on Artificial Intelligence (AI) (07:55) - Definition of Artificial Intelligence (09:36) - Difference between Machine Learning & Deep Learning (11:56) - Ethics in AI (Definition & Practices) (13:43) - The role of the human layer in Ethical AI (15:11) - Categories & Examples of biases that occur in AI (22:29) - Normative vs Descriptive approach for selecting biases in machine learning models (25:22) - Recent developments in the field of AI (26:50) - Effective practices of ethical AI in big tech companies (29:33) - Steps Governments & Policymakers can take to build and regulate AI models (32:08) - How should tech startups in Emerging Markets develop models in the field of AI ethics? (35:07) - Future of AI: Utopian vs Dystopian vision (37:41) - Margaret's recent venture on open source AI (40:36) - Outro
One of the world's foremost development economists Professor Sir Paul Collier from Oxford University, Blavatnik School of Government joins our host Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo) for this breathtaking episode on poverty alleviation and turnarounds. Sir Paul has previously written 4 books on the topic of poverty alleviation, governance and sustainable growth including one of the most famous books in the development literature called 'The Bottom Billion: Why the Poorest Countries are Failing and What Can Be Done About It'. Prior to this Sir Paul also held the position as the Director of Research at the World Bank. In this episode we talk about: -definitions, types and causes of poverty. -properties of fragile states and the 'bottom billion' people in the world -how states can manufacture turnarounds including learnings from examples of growing middle-income countries such as Bangladesh, India, Singapore etc. -where Western institutions working in the development sector get it wrong and how to ameliorate those errors. -how to achieve good leadership and governance at a state-level. Follow our host Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo) for more updates on tech, civilizational growth and progress studies. Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode. (00:00) - Intro (06:23) - Humble roots and what made Sir Paul interested in the topics of development economics and governance? (08:25) - What is poverty? Does poverty always have to relate with a financial benchmark? What are the types and causes of poverty? (10:37) - Who are the "Bottom Billion"? (12:11) - what are the structural traps to poverty that Bottom Billion countries have? (22:13) - How do the Western institutions allocate capital for the development sector? (26:43) - What role do the World Bank and other financial institutions play to bolster infrastructure building? (30:26) - How can states manufacture turnarounds? (38:16) - How do countries like Bangladesh and other developing states continue to grow (autopilot development) despite high number of corruption and poverty? (42:13) - Are we on the right trajectory in terms of alleviating poverty? What roles do the government and state leaders have to establish strong societies? (46:16) - Outro
We're joined by the Dean of Social Sciences at New York University and Professor of Political Science David Stasavage (@stasavage) who wrote the recent book (The Decline and Rise of Democracy). We talk about: - the first principles and definitions of what we exactly mean by 'democracy' - a compressed summary of the origins, and pre-17th century non-European early forms of democracy in the Islamic world, China, Africa. - democracy, institution-building, and state development in early Rashidun Caliphates, Umayyads and Chinese empires. - Does adopting democracy automatically lead to more economic development and innovation? - The reasons for the development of late democracy in Europe. - The reasons for development of the democratic model in the United States. - Technology and the future of democracy in the world. Follow our host Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo) for more updates on tech and civilization. Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode. (00:00) - Episode intro and key moments (04:55) - Why David wrote a book on the history of Democracy across different regions? (05:52) - Definitions and first principles of Democracy. (07:10) - Is democracy a consensus-based system? (07:45) - First principles of early vs modern democracy (08:58) - Examples of early democracy across the world (09:32) - Compressed summary of the origins of democracy till today (11:20) - The role of democracy between 7th and 13th CE Islamic world (14:08) - How decentralised system of governance made democracy possible? (15:15) - Democratic process of the early Rashidun caliphates (16:30) - Standardization and unification of democratic policies (17:11) - How is China's political development different from the rest of Europe and the Islamic world (21:41) - How is democracy tied to the idea of economic development? (24:30) - The role of democracy when it comes to technological innovations (25:48) - Emergence of democracy in Europe (28:09) - Why were Aristotle's democratic discussions more popular in Europe than in the rest of the world (29:31) - Impact of Aristotle's democratic theory on early Europe (30:23) - Does democracy help reduce inequality? (35:50) - What is bureaucracy? (37:49) - Mixtures model of democracy (39:25) - Are there hierarchies in a modern democracy? (41:54) - Does democracy change forms? (45:04) - Is autocracy deeply rooted in the culture of political and state development? (47:14) - Development of the democratic model in the US and the future of democracy (49:48) - Outro
On the 52nd anniversary of the Apollo moon landings, we welcomed New-York Times Best Selling Author Charles Fishman (@cfishman), who wrote the book 'One Giant Leap: The Impossible Mission that flew us to the moon' (https://www.amazon.com/One-Giant-Leap-Untold-Story/dp/1501106295/). Follow our host Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo) for more updates on tech and civilization. We talk about: - the factors that led to the success of one of the largest government-funded deep-science technology projects. - spinoff technologies and effects of Apollo on hardware and software we do today - communist management style vs democratic leadership - privatisation of space economy, decreasing costs, similarities to internet economy and opportunity for emerging market countries. - climate change, poverty vs space investment priorities? Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode. (00:00) - Intro (09:08) - Key factors that made a major technology project like Apollo successful (17:25) Evolution of Soviet centralized vs American decentralized management systems (23:12) - Apollos systemic impact on software (28:35) - Apollo as a global trust-building exercise for software (29:02) - Some of the defining spinoff technologies from Apollo (37:52) - How the context of 50s and 60s defined America and the Apollo mission (43:03) - Is space travel affordable? (44:39) - Investing in space technologies vs investing in climate change and poverty (47:06) - How does space science reinforce climate science? (48:00) - Is there a new space race on the horizon? (53:29) - Opportunities for developing nations in the space domain (58:02) - Space applications within the local context (64:24) - Outro
CEO at Mattereum, Vinay Gupta (@leashless), the man who lead the launch of the world's second-biggest cryptocurrency Ethereum at its outset, joins us for a very special third episode on the Innovation Civilization Podcast. We cover the history of money starting from ancient humans to today, the fundamental tech and thesis of crypto along with what emerging market policymakers & citizens can do to leverage this foundational technology. We are also joined by Empasco Partner Artur Safaryan (@asafaryann) and Co-founder Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo). Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode. (00:00) - Introduction (02:36) - Vinay's story on being one of the early adopters of cryptocurrencies (03:57) - What is a smart contract? (04:50) - Origins and use of money (09:42) - Characteristics of money (11:32) - Digitization of money (14:10) - Problems with paper money (16:27) - Who is/are Satoshi Nakamoto? (19:18) - What is cryptocurrency? (22:32) - Is cryptocurrency considered as money? (28:06) - Where are we on the timeline with respect to the radical changes brought about by cryptocurrencies? (30:46) - What are the missing components for the large-scale adoption of cryptocurrencies? (38:10) - Is crypto here to make you rich? (39:11) - Benefits of cyptocurrency (44:13) - What enabled the rise of cryptocurrencies? (47:04) - How can governments in emerging markets leverage cryptocurrency for policymaking and state development? (58:56 ) - How blockchain is currently used in the charity space? (61:55) - What should individuals in developing nations do to get into the crypto space? (68:52) - Future of blockchain technology (71:42) - Outro
In our second episode, our Co-Founder Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo) is joined by British historian and author Dr. Anton Howes (@antonhowes) where we uncover the roots of innovation in the modern world, including how to create innovation ecosystems with a focus on 16th-19th century Britain as a case-study. Dr. Anton is the Head of Innovation Research at The Entrepreneurs Network and released his latest book 'Arts and Minds: How the Royal Society of Arts Changed a Nation'. He's also a former Lecturer in Economic History at King's College London. OUTLINE: Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp to jump to that time. (00:00) - Introduction to Episode (01:55) - First-principles: Defining Innovation vs Invention (07:08) - Industrial Revolution: Why this epoch of time is so crucial in innovation history? (12:43) - Specific technologies - Idea of different Industrial Revolutions (15:22) - Innovation in other regions (16:47) - Key factors that led to an accelerated period of innovation and invention in 16th-century Britain (22:41) - Scientific Revolution and effects of the Baconian Program on Early Britain during the 1500s and 1600s (32:44) - Reasons and origins of why the idea of 'improvement mentality' came about (41:33) - Is Necessity the mother of all inventions? (48:20) - Effect of British Colonialism in accelerating innovation (59:03) - Is there a decline in Innovation in Britain vs the American acceleration in the 20th century? (1:06:09) - Lessons for Emerging Markets when it comes to creating Innovation Ecosystems (1:14:28) - Ending
In this first episode, our host Waheedur Rahman (@iwaheedo) is joined by Pamir Sevincel (@pamirsevincel) from Up Partners. The first part of the episode covers the history, formulation, and ontological dimensions of ancient cities. The second part covers the latest developments in the urban air mobility space, solutionizing key 21st-century urban transportation problems, venture models for this foundational eVTOL technology, and the near-term future of cities in the skies.
A brief prologue to explain the baseline thesis behind the series of episodes that are to follow.
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