Episodes

  • #018 -TRENT KALISCH SMITH - Are You the Product? AI, Targeted Ads, and the Ethics of Data
    Jan 5 2025

    We sit down with Trent Kalisch-Smith, a brilliant and engaging AI expert working at the forefront of data analytics and targeted advertising. From Snowplow’s innovative approach to data transparency to the ethical dilemmas of using AI to sell, this episode uncovers the truths and trade-offs of how data fuels modern technology. Key Topics Discussed: • How AI and behavioral data are transforming targeted ads—and why you might be the product. • The ethical challenges of using AI for personalized selling, including the psychological effects on consumers. • Privacy battles: Apple’s fines in Europe and the evolving tension between regulators and tech innovators. • Why Trent believes data transparency is key to building trust in an AI-driven world. • A candid conversation about the future of AI: Utopia or dystopia? Are you ready to question how AI shapes your world? Trent brings a thoughtful, balanced perspective on innovation, ethics, and the incredible potential of AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and more. What You’ll Learn: • The hidden mechanics of AI-driven ads—and whether they’re necessary or manipulative. • Practical tips to protect your privacy in a data-hungry world. • How Trent uses AI for 10x productivity gains in coding and communication. • The real-world impact of AI on data transparency, privacy, and trust. Join the conversation in the comments: Are targeted ads a breach of ethics, or just smart innovation? Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon for more deep dives into AI’s impact on society! 00:00 - Intro: Setting the stage for the discussion with Trent Kalisch-Smith. 00:01:47 - Trent’s introduction and an overview of the innovative work he’s focused on. 00:03:16 - Snowplow data analytics: Understanding its role in driving transparency and functionality. 00:04:16 - Legacy media and the recurring themes in common news content. 00:06:16 - Social media age restrictions and how the US is tackling TikTok. 00:06:47 - Yuka app: How data is helping consumers make informed food choices. 00:08:15 - Data transparency: How we are entering a new era powered by accessible information. 00:09:17 - Data access limitations on platforms like Stack Overflow. 00:11:10 - The role of data in fueling AI functionality and its applications. 00:14:48 - Image metadata tagging and indexing for enhanced AI learning. 00:17:25 - Targeted ads: Behavioral data and its influence on advertising strategies. 00:19:09 - The power and rise of social selling. 00:20:30 - How COVID impacted smartphone usage and data collection trends. 00:22:30 - Custom ChatGPT solutions for personalized customer communication. 00:23:19 - The ethics of using AI to target children in sales strategies. 00:24:31 - Psychological pressures created by AI-driven selling techniques. 00:25:46 - Apple privacy fines in the UK and France: The growing regulatory pushback. 00:29:07 - Top advice for improving personal data security and privacy practices. 00:31:19 - Privacy controls and how to better manage personal information. 00:31:48 - Daily AI tools: Trent’s use of ChatGPT, Claude, and Codeium for productivity. 00:33:00 - Achieving 10x productivity gains with AI tools. 00:36:12 - Defining AI: What it is and what it isn’t. 00:38:53 - How engineers tackle failures and challenges in AI development. 00:41:14 - ChatGPT’s experimental phase and the validation of its responses. 00:43:05 - Handling AI-driven calls and emails: Opportunities and annoyances. 00:43:41 - The paradox of AI prescriptive selling versus unwanted sales interactions. 00:45:31 - Do we trust our devices? Exploring consumer trust in technology. 00:50:12 - Future improvements in AI reliability over the next five years. 00:51:56 - Agentic AI: Fully autonomous workflows and their implications. 00:52:47 - Utopia or dystopia: Trent’s closing thoughts on the future of AI.

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    54 mins
  • #016 - Sven Strassburg - Quantum, Sustainability & AI
    Dec 28 2024

    Sven Strassburg is a seasoned technologist and pragmatic problem solver with decades of experience at the forefront of technological innovation. With a sharp focus on both mental and technological puzzles, Sven combines deep curiosity with a critical mindset, often asking the vital question: “Just because we can, should we?” His expertise spans AI, quantum computing, and the intricate interplay between humanity and technology, making him a powerful voice in navigating the ethical and practical challenges of our rapidly evolving digital age. Explore the future of artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and the evolving relationship between technology and humanity in this engaging episode of the BASELINE Podcast. Ian is joined by Sven Strassburg, a seasoned technology expert and problem solver, who tackles big questions like: • Are we rushing into AI, and what are the risks? • How can AI and humanity coexist in a world of rapid technological change? • What is the role of quantum computing in shaping the future of AI? • Should we prioritise ethics over technological capabilities? This discussion dives into the history of AI, the impact of technology on industries like manufacturing, finance, and automobiles, and the critical question: Will AI lead us to utopia or dystopia? Key Topics Covered: • The challenges and opportunities of IBM’s quantum computing innovations • The ethical dilemmas in using generative AI for decision-making • How data drives sustainability and AI development • The intersection of technology, freedom, and control in modern systems • The role of AI in influencing elections and societal trust Whether you’re an AI enthusiast, tech professional, or curious about how technology is shaping our world, this episode offers profound insights into the balance between progress, ethics, and human values. 00:00:000 Intro 00:00:05 Are we rushing into AI 00:07:00 Have physics and science stagnated? 00:09:43 Are we starting to doubt everything? 00:10:05 The impact of COVID on manufacturing 00:12:45 Humanity and technology coexistence 00:18:29 Humans will naturally resist control and repression 00:21:00 The use of technology in propaganda 00:23:45 Do we accept digital systems to police humanity 00:25:21 Car industry attempt to control the driver and remove freedoms 00:28:00 Do cars need to have some much data collection and analysis 00:29:54 Thoughtfulness in the development of technology 00:31:07 Are we living in a digital prison 00:33:50 Can AI influence elections? 00:41:50 Challenges with Rivian subscription service 00:45:54 Design engineers v production engineers 00:57:14 Quantum computing as a platform for AI 01:00:39 Quantum as a component of a processing architecture 01:03:28 Minimisation of Large Language Models 01:04:03 Quantum developments enhancing classical compute 01:05:00 The engineering DNA to make quantum succeed 01:05:45 Stages of engineering in a quantum computer 01:06:35 AI Utopia or dystopia?

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    1 hr and 9 mins
  • #017 BEN LOWE - Agentic AI, Sales Transformation & The Future of Work
    Dec 21 2024

    Ben Lowe is a successful and seasoned enterprise software sales leader with a wealth of experience in crafting and closing complex deals. From automation to cloud, Ben has been at the forefront of some of the largest and most impactful software transformations in recent history. Now, as an entrepreneur, he’s leveraging generative AI to supercharge global sales and operational teams, bringing a pragmatic and commercially-driven perspective to the transformative potential of AI. In this episode of BASELINE, Ian and Ben explore how AI is reshaping sales, business, and global economies. Together, they dive into topics ranging from Agentic AI and generative AI in sales to cultural approaches to AI, the ethics of technology, and the challenges of leading a company in a rapidly changing world. • The potential and limitations of Agentic AI • Generative AI’s impact on sales and global economies • The role of ethics and regulation in AI innovation • Transforming enterprise technology with focused LLMs • The future of remote work, cultural approaches to AI, and mental health • Lessons from Ironman training, Strava, and even Lance Armstrong’s legacy 00:00 Intro 01:17 Agentic AI 04:34 ChatGPT effect in sales 08:51 Generative AI and global economies 18:37 Ethical impacts of AI 22:38 AI-generated sales emails: Effective or not? 32:12 Private generative AI capabilities for salespeople 42:00 Remote work: Benefits vs challenges 50:16 Lance Armstrong, doping, and lessons for leadership 58:12 AI Utopia or Dystopia? https://lighthousetechnology.ai

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    1 hr and 1 min
  • #015 - Abdi Timer - IBM Granite 3.0, Generative AI, and the Future of Ethics
    Dec 17 2024

    IBM Granite 3.0, Generative AI Challenges, and Ethics in Artificial Intelligence In this incredible episode, Ian speaks with Abdi Timer, a brilliant mind at the intersection of data science and artificial intelligence. Abdi’s optimism and deep knowledge shine as he shares his insights on the transformative power of AI and the importance of ethics and governance in its application. Abdi shares his insights on IBM’s Granite 3.0 language model, a cutting-edge tool shaping enterprise AI, while delving into the importance of AI ethics and governance in the evolving tech landscape. We discuss critical topics like generative AI legal challenges, the role of open-source AI in driving innovation, and the future of artificial general intelligence (AGI). Abdi also addresses profound questions about AI’s ability to replicate humanity, how businesses can mitigate legal risks, and whether the next wave of AI will lead to utopia or dystopia. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of data science, AI technology, and ethical innovation. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, business leader, or AI professional, you’ll gain valuable insights into the future of generative AI and its impact on society. 01:00:00 Intro 01:01:00 Leveraging generative AI in real time to create appealing content 01:03:00 ChatGPT and subtle advertising 01:05:00 Open source LLM models Granite 3.0 01:08:00 The LLM race and competition 01:14:00 Linear regression and complex data models 01:15:00 The randomness of human behaviour 01:18:00 Pipeline of LLM development 01:19:00 Trust in the wider open source communities 01:28:00 Legal and General using machine learning in life insurance 01:30:00 Legal implications of the application of AI 01:31:00 GenAI chatbot hallucinations 01:32:00 IBM Granite 3.0 LLM and governance for AI 01:36:00 Rapid development in the AI space 01:37:00 Long term financial commitments for enterprise organisations to AI 01:40:00 Framework considerations around generative artificial intelligence 01:41:00 The next evolutions in AI could it be artificial general intelligence 01:43:00 Adobe firefly and openAI Sora 01:47:00 Can AI truly replicate humanity 01:50:00 Utopia or dystopia? Indemnification of Granite Models - https://newsroom.ibm.com/2023-09-28-IBM-Announces-Availability-of-watsonx-Granite-Model-Series,-Client-Protections-for-IBM-watsonx-Models Dialect Prejudice studied on LLMs - https://arxiv.org/pdf/2403.00742 Air Canada ordered to pay customer who was misled by airline’s chatbot - https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/feb/16/air-canada-chatbot-lawsuit Names that make ChatGPT grind to a halt - https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2024/12/certain-names-make-chatgpt-grind-to-a-halt-and-we-know-why/ Try the Granite models - https://www.ibm.com/granite/playground, https://huggingface.co/ibm-granite Sleeper agents intercept LLMs - https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2024/01/ai-poisoning-could-turn-open-models-into-destructive-sleeper-agents-says-anthropic/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

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    53 mins
  • #014 - Ross Parrett - AI, Global Power Shifts & the Tower of Babel
    Dec 9 2024

    Join us as Ross unpacks global finance, AI, and the Tower of Babel’s modern parallels in this thought-provoking episode—insights only, not investment advice! START HERE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLbdDIi2BAcBvR9x7cOZeod8pQ58p_3xzS In this riveting episode of BASELINE, Ross joins us to unravel a fascinating mix of topics that span global economics, cutting-edge technology, and humanity’s future. We explore the evolution of industries like Amazon FBA and car manufacturing, the implications of gigafactories, and the opportunities presented by longevity research and biomarkers. From cryptocurrency trust issues to the rise of mBridge as a potential replacement for the US dollar, we dive deep into the shifting tides of global finance. Ross also shares bold insights into the current global AI landscape, debating whether China will be the first to build AGI and what this means for global cooperation. The episode crescendos with a thought-provoking discussion on the Tower of Babel, drawing a parallel between this ancient tale and the modern quest for AI-driven unity—or division. Could AI be humanity’s greatest unifying project or its ultimate challenge? Tune in for a journey that questions whether we’re heading toward utopia or dystopia. 00:00 Intro 01:19 Amazon FBA 06:22 Christmas presents for 2024 08:00 Longevity and biomarkers 09:45 The biggest investor opportunity right now 13:20 Global manufacturing distribution 15:00 Evolution of car obsoleteness 17:17 Gigafactories accelerated industry 18:54 Predictable investment events 21:04 Trusting cryptocurrency 23:00 The impact of interest on national debt 25:05 mBridge as a replacement for the US dollar 29:50 Current global AI players - do we trust them? 32:56 The transition from search engine to generative AI 35:47 Will China build the first AGI? 39:45 How do we build global cooperation 42:15 Can AI give global competitive edge 49:15 AI is a humanity project and decentralisation is required 51:06 Is everyone invested in a positive future 54:41 Ethical considerations as an investor 57:57 Tower of babel 58:21 Utopia or dystopia

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    1 hr and 1 min
  • #012 - Dr Piotr Sirko - Sit, Stay, Innovate
    Dec 3 2024

    Sit, Stay, Innovate: AI, EVs, and Robotics. Join Dr Piotr Sirko and Boston Dynamics' robot dog: Spot, on BASELINE to explore AI-driven innovation, robotics, and the future of human-machine interaction.


    In this episode of BASELINE, we sit down with Dr Piotr Sirko, a data scientist-turned-entrepreneur, to explore the cutting edge of AI, robotics, and electric vehicle technology. From Boston Dynamics' Spot robot dog to neural plasticity, Elon Musk's influence, and real-time communication, Piotr shares insights from his journey across neuroscience, machine learning, and tech entrepreneurship. Together, we dive into themes like freedom vs. surveillance, the economic opportunities of EVs, and intellectual property in the age of AI. With topics ranging from the practical benefits of electric transportation to futuristic questions on accountability and AI’s potential for utopia or dystopia, this episode showcases how innovation in AI and robotics is reshaping our world.


    00:00 Intro 01:48 Boston Dynamics Spot dog 07:40 Freedom v surveillance 11:44 Neuroscience and academia 16:14 Power of real time communication 19:22 Neuroplasticity and learning 22:00 Mental longevity 29:00 Elon Musk and Tesla inspiration 31:44 Application of generative artificial intelligence 36:01 The power of natural language 39:10 Intellectual property in the age of AI 44:15 xAI and Grok 46:47 Heathrow airport runway optimisation 51:07 The benefit of electric transportation 54:35 Economic opportunities of EV 57:37 Machines taking accountability 01:03:09 Utopia or dystopia? The link to Electro app https://www.electro-app.com "We empower drivers with a seamless experience at charge points, offering clear insights into nearby surroundings."

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    1 hr and 8 mins
  • #013 Vijay Rathore - Wisdom meets Artificial Intelligence
    Nov 22 2024

    Wisdom Meets AI: Vijay Rathore on Microsoft Copilot, Infosys Topaz, and the Future of Artificial Intelligence

    Vijay is a forward-thinking leader with a deep understanding of AI’s transformative potential, combining decades of expertise with a passion for innovation to redefine how organizations harness technology. In this thought-provoking episode of BASELINE, Vijay Rathore—an influential figure in Infosys’s deployment of Microsoft Copilot—shares his unique insights into how human wisdom and experience can shape the future of artificial intelligence. Vijay dives into the ethical balance of innovation with Infosys’s Responsible AI Suite and explores the “ripple effect” of AI on society, from AI-driven personal assistants to the transformative power of collective intelligence. Together, we examine the potential for Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) and the critical question of whether AI will lead humanity toward a utopian or dystopian future. If you're interested in AI’s role in reshaping industries, enhancing human experience, and addressing challenges like trust and ethics, this episode is essential. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on whether AI will lead to a utopian or dystopian future. (00:00) Intro (01:01) AI digital twins and personal assistants (03:40) Agentic Artificial Intelligence (05:11) Autonomous agents (06:26) Will Elon Musk be remembered? (09:00) Do you want to go to Mars? (11:08) Computing curiosity: from ZX81 to now (14:50) Empathy in sales teams (22:23) Infosys Topaz: a new AI frontier (29:12) Will financial advisors become algorithms? (30:30) How do you build trust in AI? (33:18) Should AI replicate human cognition? (36:15) Is AI beyond human control? (39:01) The ripple effect of artificial intelligence (42:31) Is Artificial General Intelligence achievable? (45:45) Integrating AI in Infosys (49:30) The power and risks of collective intelligence (53:19) A balanced approach to Artificial Intelligence (55:12) Time as a function of data relevance (57:25) Are search engines shaping society? (01:00:45) AI: Utopia or dystopia? Generative AI Artificial intelligence system Conversational AI AI infrastructure explained Podcast intelligence What is knowledge based agent in AI Synthetic intelligence Intelligence cycle Data intelligence AI governance Latest AI podcast What is BASELINE? BASELINE is a podcast exploring the impact of AI on humanity, hosted by technology leader Ian. Each episode dives into critical questions on AI’s potential to create a utopian or dystopian future. Who are the guests on BASELINE? Guests come from diverse fields, including tech, sports, and creative industries, each offering unique perspectives on AI’s influence across various aspects of life and work. What topics does BASELINE cover? Episodes cover everything from AI’s role in emotional intelligence, neurodiversity, and creativity to its impact on industries like finance, aviation, and recruitment. Discussions explore whether AI will enhance humanity or present new challenges. How long is each episode? Episodes are typically around one hour, designed to provide an in-depth look at AI’s impact. Why listen to BASELINE? If you’re curious about how AI might shape our future and want to hear from experts across fields, BASELINE offers thought-provoking insights and invites listeners to consider the possibilities—utopia or dystopia. How can I join the conversation? We encourage comments and discussions on each episode. Follow BASELINE and share your thoughts on whether you believe AI will lead us toward a better future.

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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • #011 Joe Mayhew - Beyond the surface
    Nov 14 2024

    Ian welcomes Joe Mayhew, whose journey into innovation began at the high-stakes frontier of Formula 1 motor racing. Having been part of teams that secured the F1 Constructors’ Championship, Joe developed a unique approach to transformation that emphasizes the essential, often unseen AI infrastructure that drives success. His insights reveal how genuine innovation is rooted in interconnected systems, extending far beyond visible technologies to impact the very fabric of business intelligence and organisational effectiveness. Joe and Ian dive deep into the concept of synthetic intelligence as a transformative infrastructure for diverse industries, reshaping fields from pharmaceutical development to online sales and agriculture. They explore the role of podcast intelligence and business intelligence in amplifying knowledge and fostering AI governance — critical elements in harnessing AI’s full potential. Joe shares how leading organisations are leveraging AI for productivity and reskilling, viewing AI not as a one-off fix but as a competitive advantage integral to long-term growth. The conversation touches on what makes artificial general intelligence distinct and delves into innovation in AI as a step-by-step process, highlighting Joe’s balanced approach to adopting AI. With examples spanning sectors as varied as SpaceX and the drinks industry, Joe paints a vision of AI as a foundational intelligence, an embedded force driving transformation across industries and society. Ending with the question, “Utopia or dystopia?” Ian and Joe invite listeners to consider AI’s future impact on humanity and the importance of leaders in AI in guiding its path forward. (00:47) Intro (01:22) Generative AI (03:00) New methods of engagement and power of podcast intelligence (05:30) Silverstone and British American Racing (07:40) Winning the F1 constructors championship (12:00) Technological innovations in F1 (15:06) AI in pharmaceutical and vaccine development (18:30) AI digital twin (19:25) The reality of consulting and AI (23:00) Artificial intelligence for 10,000 audits (25:40) Reskilling in consulting and Ernst and Young (EY) investment in AI (29:15) Key risks on the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (38:42) SpaceX and catching rockets - exciting business cases (45:53) Artificial Inteligence in agriculture (48:50) Celebrity endorsement in the drinks industry (50:12) AI Utopia or dystopia? What is BASELINE? BASELINE is a podcast exploring the impact of AI on humanity, hosted by technology leader Ian. Each episode dives into critical questions on AI’s potential to create a utopian or dystopian future. Who are the guests on BASELINE? Guests come from diverse fields, including tech, sports, and creative industries, each offering unique perspectives on AI’s influence across various aspects of life and work. What topics does BASELINE cover? Episodes cover everything from AI’s role in emotional intelligence, neurodiversity, and creativity to its impact on industries like finance, aviation, and recruitment. Discussions explore whether AI will enhance humanity or present new challenges. How long is each episode? Episodes are typically around one hour, designed to provide an in-depth look at AI’s impact. Why listen to BASELINE? If you’re curious about how AI might shape our future and want to hear from experts across fields, BASELINE offers thought-provoking insights and invites listeners to consider the possibilities—utopia or dystopia. How can I join the conversation? We encourage comments and discussions on each episode. Follow BASELINE and share your thoughts on whether you believe AI will lead us toward a better future.

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    52 mins