Podcasts about quantum bits

Why This Episode MattersYuval has a rare profile in the quantum industry: an M.Sc. in physics from Tel Aviv University, an MBA from Kellogg, two decades as a CEO and CMO in deep tech before quantum, and now the commercial lead at QuEra — the company whose neutral-atom architecture is colocated with NVIDIA H100s inside Japan's ABCI-Q supercomputer and just demonstrated 96 logical qubits from 448 physical atoms in Nature. He also hosts The Superposition Guy's Podcast and has just published Quantum Bits, a comic-book guide to quantum computing.This is a crossover conversation — Sebastian's book A New Quantum Era came out the same week — so the episode reads as two practitioners comparing their explanatory strategies, their reading of the modality race, and their honest forecasts for when a quantum computer becomes genuinely non-simulatable. If you want a candid look at how the commercial side of quantum thinks about hardware timelines, error-correction overhead, and the work of translating physics into procurement, this is the episode.SponsorThis episode is brought to you by Outshift, Cisco's incubation engine. The need for computational power is rapidly increasing in every sector. From drug discovery to material innovation to complex financial modeling, classical systems are reaching their absolute limits. It's time for a paradigm shift. The answer is a scalable quantum network, built on open standards and vendor-agnostic architecture. By uniting distributed quantum devices, you unlock limitless computational power.Learn more about the Cisco Universal Quantum Switch at Outshift.com.Go deeper with the blog post The switch that quantum networking has been waiting for.What We Get IntoWhy Vladan Vuletić's confidence horizon for neutral atoms expanded from 5 years to 10 years in a single 18-month window — and what changedThe honest case for neutral atoms when wall-clock speed is the obvious weakness: parallelism, algorithmic fault tolerance, and a 2:1 physical-to-logical ratio for quantum memoryWhy "time to solution" — not gate speed — is the metric Yuval thinks the industry should be arguing aboutHow Shor's algorithm went from requiring a million qubits to roughly 30,000, and what that compression means for cryptographically relevant timelinesThe craft problem of explaining quantum without saying "zero and one at the same time" — and why both Yuval and Sebastian refused to use itWhat it took to make a quantum comic funny in German (the German is perfect, the joke is not)Sebastian's read on the modality race: neutral atoms short-term, superconducting mid-term, spin and photonics long-term — and Yuval's pushbackWhy Yuval thinks Sebastian's five-year forecast for a non-simulatable machine is pessimisticThe shift inside QuEra from "95% science, 5% everything else" to a company that has to ship serviceable systems and uptimeHow podcasting becomes a business development tool once the microphone is offResources & LinksGuest LinksThe Superposition Guy's Podcast — Yuval's interview show with quantum CEOs and technical leaders across computing, sensing, and communications.Quantum Bits Comics — Yuval's comic-book guide to quantum computing, including custom editions and multilingual versions.QuEra Computing — The neutral-atom quantum computing company where Yuval serves as Chief Commercial Officer.Yuval's published writing — Aggregated Forbes, HPCwire, and Built In bylines on quantum ROI, workforce, and commercialization.Papers & ArticlesQuEra and collaborators on Algorithmic Fault Tolerance (Nature, 2025) — The paper behind the claim that syndrome measurements can happen per algorithmic block rather than per operation.HPCwire coverage of the AFT result — Independent take on the 10–100x runtime overhead reduction.IEEE Spectrum on neutral-atom quantum computing in 2026 — Context for the AIST Gemini deployment and Yuval's time-to-solution argument.2026 Quantum Readiness Report, Part 2 — The survey of 291 stakeholders behind Yuval's "show-me phase" framing of the market.BooksA New Quantum Era by Sebastian Hassinger — Sebastian's outsider's introduction to quantum computing, referenced throughout the conversation.Quantum Bits: A Comic Book Guide to Quantum Computing by Yuval Boger — Yuval's illustrated explainer, with a glossary covering terms from superposition to QLDPC codes.Background Reading MentionedThe Soul of a New Machine by Tracy Kidder — Sebastian's inspiration for the working title of his next book.Key Quotes & InsightsOn the magic of neutral atoms: "We've got this rubidium atoms, we hold them in place using tiny lasers, they're four microns apart, we shoot lasers, and then we take a photograph and see how they're doing. It's science fiction until it isn't."On the modality timeline (Yuval, paraphrasing Vladan Vuletić): Eighteen months ago Vladan was confident about neutral atoms for the next five years. Six months ago, after recent results, that confidence horizon stretched to ten.On what actually matters: "Obviously what matters is time to solution and not clock speed." Yuval's core rebuttal to the standard critique that neutral-atom gates are slow.On the error-correction compression: A recent Harvard result showed the physical-to-logical qubit ratio for quantum memory dropping toward roughly 2:1 — not the thousand-to-one figure that dominates most public discourse.On the takeaway from his book (Yuval): "Quantum is magical, but it's not magic."Related EpisodesEpisode 18 — Neutral atom arrays with Alex Keesling of QuEra Computing — Sebastian's earlier conversation with QuEra's CEO on the foundational technology.

Sebastian Hassinger, host of The New Quantum Era podcast and author of a new book by the same name, is interviewed by Yuval Boger. Sebastian and Yuval have much in common beyond their work in quantum: both are podcasters, neither holds a PhD, and both are authors of new books — Sebastian's The New Quantum Era and Yuval's Quantum Bits, the Comic Book Guide to Quantum Computing. In a conversation more symmetric than the typical episode, they compare notes on the motivation and process of writing these books, the challenge of explaining quantum computing to non-physicists, and debate Hassinger's modality forecast. They also discuss their hypothetical dinner guests from the quantum greats, and much more.Get the books at:www.QuantumBitsComics.com/buywww.TheNewQuantumEra.com

Welcome to Impact Quantum, the podcast where career paths are anything but straight lines and curiosity is the ultimate quantum skill. In today's episode, hosts Frank La Vigne and Candice Gillhoolley are joined by the extraordinary Christopher Bishop—TEDx speaker, futurist, deep tech MC, and host of Qubit Confidential—whose eclectic journey has taken him from performing on stage with rock legends like ZZ Top to driving innovation at IBM, and now delving deep into the world of quantum technologies.Together, they explore the rapidly evolving landscape of quantum careers—the surprising roles you didn't know exist (or will exist soon), how to transition into this transformative field, and why the right mix of adaptability, lifelong learning, and even a solid LinkedIn profile might be the keys to success in the quantum workforce. Christopher draws on his own nonlinear, multi-career trajectory to inspire listeners to embrace reinvention, leverage transferable skills, and dive headfirst into opportunities at the intersection of technology, business, and creativity.So, whether your CV looks like a Jackson Pollock painting or you're just quantum-curious, this episode is packed with practical advice, industry insights, and plenty of wit. Grab your favorite beverage and get ready to ponder a future where the only constant is change—and possibility.Time Stamps00:00 "Exploring Future Quantum Careers"05:05 "Career Journey: From Agencies to Author"09:56 Evolving Careers Through Technology12:29 Essential Roles in Quantum Startups15:39 Quantum Computing Epiphany at AI Conference19:16 "Past Tech vs. Future Innovations"23:52 Quantum Security Innovations Expand27:45 Emerging Quantum Networking Revolution30:20 "Cryptanalysis: Key Distribution Weaknesses"34:27 Lifelong Learning Approach36:08 "Invisible Technology"40:47 Vertical-Specific Business Solutions44:10 Networking and Conversation Strategies48:31 Deep Tech MC: Quantum Tech Speaker49:57 "From Bass to Quantum Bits"

Episode 3: Extropic is building a new kind of computer – not classical bits, nor quantum qubits, but a secret, more complex third thing. They call it a Thermodynamic Computer, and it might be many orders of magnitude more powerful than even the most powerful supercomputers today. Check out their “litepaper” to learn more: https://www.extropic.ai/future.======(00:00) - Intro(00:41) - Guillaume's Background(02:40) - Trevor's Background(04:02) - What is Extropic Building? High-Level Explanation(07:07) - Frustrations with Quantum Computing and Noise(10:08) - Scaling Digital Computers and Thermal Noise Challenges(13:20) - How Digital Computers Run Sampling Algorithms Inefficiently(17:27) - Limitations of Gaussian Distributions in ML(20:12) - Why GPUs are Good at Deep Learning but Not Sampling(23:05) - Extropic's Approach: Harnessing Noise with Thermodynamic Computers(28:37) - Bounding the Noise: Not Too Noisy, Not Too Pristine(31:10) - How Thermodynamic Computers Work: Inputs, Parameters, Outputs(37:14) - No Quantum Coherence in Thermodynamic Computers(41:37) - Gaining Confidence in the Idea Over Time(44:49) - Using Superconductors and Scaling to Silicon(47:53) - Thermodynamic Computing vs Neuromorphic Computing(50:51) - Disrupting Computing and AI from First Principles(52:52) - Early Applications in Low Data, Probabilistic Domains(54:49) - Vast Potential for New Devices and Algorithms in AI's Early Days(57:22) - Building the Next S-Curve to Extend Moore's Law for AI(59:34) - The Meaning and Purpose Behind Extropic's Mission(01:04:54) - Call for Talented Builders to Join Extropic(01:09:34) - Putting Ideas Out There and Creating Value for the Universe(01:11:35) - Conclusion and Wrap-Up======Links:Christian Keil – https://twitter.com/pronounced_kyleGuillaume Verd - https://twitter.com/GillVerdBeff Jezos - https://twitter.com/BasedBeffJezosTrevor McCourt - https://twitter.com/trevormccrt1First Principles:Gaussian Distribution: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Normal_distributionEnergy-Based Models: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Energy-based_modelShannon's Theorem: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Noisy-channel_coding_theorem======Production and marketing by The Deep View (https://thedeepview.co). For inquiries about sponsoring the podcast, email team@firstprinciples.fm======Checkout the video version here → http://tinyurl.com/4fh497n9

Discover how quantum mechanics is reshaping our understanding of time, reestablishing computational capabilities, and ensuring the security of sensitive data transmission.  Guest Monika Schleier-Smith is a physicist who says that quantum principles, like entanglement, can make atoms do funny things, such as allowing two atoms to share secrets across great distances. While entanglement opens tantalizing possibilities like quantum computing, there's still much we don't know about quantum mechanics. She now uses lasers to “cool” atoms to near motionlessness as a starting point for controlling and proving entanglement, as she tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering's The Future of Everything podcast.Chapter Timestamps:(00:00:00) Opening Remarks Monika Schleier Smith, a distinguished professor of physics at Stanford University, kickstarts the episode by introducing the enthralling world of quantum mechanics.Russ Altman introduces the episode and welcomes Monika Schleier Smith to discuss quantum mechanics and entanglement. And he encourages listeners to engage with the podcast by rating and reviewing it.(00:02:50) Quantum Mechanics FundamentalsMonika provides insights into the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics, including the concept of quantum uncertainty.(00:04:22) Embracing Entanglement The episode delves into the concept of entanglement, highlighting its non-local properties and the intriguing correlations between particles.(00:06:55) Initiating Quantum Entanglement Monika explains the initial interactions required to establish quantum entanglement between particles. Explore the challenges in preserving entanglement and the impact of quantum measurement.(00:10:12) Laser-Cooled Atoms in Research Monika Schleier Smith sheds light on her lab's laser-cooled atoms research and their vital role in entanglement studies.(00:11:39) The Doppler Effect and Slowing AtomsMonika explains the Doppler effect and its role in slowing down atoms using laser beams. Russ Altman connects the Doppler effect to everyday experiences, like the sound of approaching vehicles.(00:13:04) Tracking and Holding AtomsMonika describes the next steps in their experiments, involving tracking and holding well-controlled atoms in a vacuum. Russ Altman mentions the challenges of maintaining atoms at low temperatures and in isolation.(00:14:49) Getting Atoms to TalkMonika explores the need for entanglement and how it involves making atoms interact. Different approaches, including using Rydberg states and optical resonators, are mentioned.(00:16:17) Leveraging Light as a MessengerMonika introduces the concept of using light to convey information between atoms. The discussion includes optical resonators and controlling interactions on different length scales. Russ Altman jokingly mentions the potential size of the lab.(00:16:32) Preserving EntanglementMonika highlights the challenge of preserving entanglement and preventing information leakage to the outside world. The importance of maintaining secrecy for entangled states is emphasized.(00:17:34) Proving EntanglementMonika explains the need for proving entanglement, distinguishing it from classical correlations. She mentions John Bell's contributions to the theory of proving entanglement. Russ Altman seeks clarification on classical correlations.(00:20:13) Measuring Incompatible ObservablesMonika outlines the measurement of incompatible observables as a way to prove entanglement. The discussion touches on the concept of spin for atom measurements.(00:22:19) Quantum Computing Potential The conversation shifts to quantum computing, where Monika discusses how quantum bits (qubits) can provide computational advantages over classical bits, paving the way for solving complex problems like drug discovery and material science.(00:28:15) Quantum Communication Secrets Monika sheds light on quantum communication's ability to secure data transmission by leveraging the principles of entanglement and quantum error correction. (00:32:39) Conclusion & closing Russ and Monika wrap up their enlightening conversation, emphasizing the ongoing pursuit of quantum knowledge and technology.

Un virus mutante ha marcado el fin del progreso moderno. Lo cuántico gobierna ahora, pero las prácticas tecnocientíficas han dejado a las masas sin preparación, atascadas en formas binarias. Cuerpos y paisajes son indistinguibles: partículas que caminan en relaciones siempre cambiantes entre la materia orgánica y los cálculos. En este mundo, se envían cápsulas de experiencia cuántica hacia y desde el futuro. Con la idea de que la única manera de resolver los problemas del mundo es tomando pastillas, cada cápsula es una pastilla-señal que emerge como un fragmento en un mapa difractivo de diferencia cuántica. Se trata de una mezcla de sueños y lógica para ir más allá del progreso pero sin olvidar cómo nos ha dejado desprevenidos ante paisajes inimaginables e (im)posibles. Con la ficción de este mundo escrito abstracto, enviamos a una convocatoria de "After Progress". Nos encontramos finalmente en un gesto cuántico: quedamos y no quedamos a la vez. Volviendo a ese material que nos fascina decidimos hacer un episodio. ¿Es una pastilla o es un copy paste? Una pregunta habitual que transmite este paisaje extraño hacia y desde el futuro.

What is quantum mechanics? What can quantum computers do that classical computers can’t? Has Google achieved quantum supremacy? Robert J. Marks discusses the weird world of quantum mechanics with Dr. Enrique Blair. Show Notes 00:54 | Introducing Dr. Enrique Blair, a professor of electrical and computer engineering at Baylor University 03:08 | The history of quantum mechanics 13:16 | Quantum… Source

What is quantum mechanics? What can quantum computers do that classical computers can’t? Has Google achieved quantum supremacy? Robert J. Marks discusses the weird world of quantum mechanics with Dr. Enrique Blair. Show Notes 00:54 | Introducing Dr. Enrique Blair, a professor of electrical and computer engineering at Baylor University 03:08 | The history of quantum mechanics 13:16 | Quantum… Source

Google has claimed quantum supremacy. What does that mean? What is the future of quantum computing? Robert J. Marks discusses quantum communication, supremacy, and computing with Dr. Enrique Blair. Show Notes 00:49 | Introducing Dr. Enrique Blair, a professor of electrical and computer engineering at Baylor University 01:14 | Problems with quantum computing 01:54 | What is quantum supremacy? 03:06… Source

Google has claimed quantum supremacy. What does that mean? What is the future of quantum computing? Robert J. Marks discusses quantum communication, supremacy, and computing with Dr. Enrique Blair. Show Notes 00:49 | Introducing Dr. Enrique Blair, a professor of electrical and computer engineering at Baylor University 01:14 | Problems with quantum computing 01:54 | What is quantum supremacy? 03:06 Read More › Source

On the road to quantum computing, you’ll become entangled with the wildest entities. Will we ever make it to a land where quantum computing is available for everyone? Robert J. Marks continues his odyssey through the quantum world with electrical and computer engineer Dr. Enrique Blair. Show Notes 00:33 | Introducing Dr. Enrique Blair, a professor of electrical and computer Read More › Source

On the road to quantum computing, you’ll become entangled with the wildest entities. Will we ever make it to a land where quantum computing is available for everyone? Robert J. Marks continues his odyssey through the quantum world with electrical and computer engineer Dr. Enrique Blair. Show Notes 00:33 | Introducing Dr. Enrique Blair, a professor of electrical and computer… Source

What does a quantum computer look like? What does the future of cyber security hold? We sit down with Lee Barford to discuss. Hosted by Daniel Bogdanoff and Mike Hoffman, EEs Talk Tech is a twice-monthly engineering podcast discussing tech trends and industry news from an electrical engineer's perspective

You may have heard the word “quantum” bandied around a lot. But what does it mean? In this animation we take a look at how the photon – the quantum particle of light – is being harnessed to help create new technologies like quantum computers. To do this researchers need to be able to create and use photons, bits of light, one at a time - it's no mean feat. Find out some of the different ways they can do this and how it might change our world.

Members of the Rudolf Peierls Centre for Theoretical Physics hosted the 7th morning of Theoretical Physics covering the idea of quantum computation and the strange behaviour of certain types of fundamental particle.

Members of the Rudolf Peierls Centre for Theoretical Physics hosted the 7th morning of Theoretical Physics covering the idea of quantum computation and the strange behaviour of certain types of fundamental particle.

In this thesis the decoherence properties, gate performance, control of solid-state quantum bits (qubits), and novel design proposals for solid-state qubits analogous to quantum optics are investigated. The qubits are realized as superconducting nanocircuits or quantum dot systems. The thesis elucidates both very appealing basic questions, like the generation and detection of deeply nonclassical states of the electromagnetic field, i.e., single photon Fock states, in the solid-state, but also presents a broad range of different strategies to improve the scalability and decoherence properties of solid-state qubit setups.