The IJK Podcast

Imad Jack Karam

The IJK Podcast features thought-provoking conversations with leading voices in business, technology, science, philosophy, personal growth and human potential. Guests have included renowned figures such as Prof. John Lennox on AI and humanity’s future, Dr. Robert Cialdini on the psychology of influence, Jeff Booth on Bitcoin, Dr. William Lane Craig on God and morality, Jonathan Pageau on the crisis of meaning, Dr. Gil Carvalho on science based nutrition, and Dr. Sharon Dirckx on consciousness and the mind-body problem. Hosted by Imad Jack Karam, the IJK Podcast brings together world-class thinkers, experts, entrepreneurs, academics, and high achievers to explore the big ideas shaping our world — from artificial intelligence and the future of humanity to consciousness, high performance, business growth, science, faith and the search for meaning. What We Cover Business and Technology: Unlock the secrets of successful business strategies, entrepreneurship and the dynamic landscape of the corporate world. Learn from the experiences of seasoned professionals and trailblazers. Also, stay ahead of the curve with our in-depth discussions on the latest technological advancements, innovations and their impact on our rapidly evolving world. Science and Philosophy: Explore profound questions about existence, meaning and the universe through the lens of science and philosophy. We dive into thought-provoking ideas about the nature of reality, the relationship between reason and belief, and the pursuit of knowledge, connecting timeless wisdom with modern discoveries. Personal Development: Discover actionable insights to enhance your mindset, spirituality and overall well-being. Our discussions focus on personal growth strategies, cultivating resilience, and unlocking your full potential to navigate life’s challenges and opportunities with purpose. About IJK IJK (Imad Jack Karam) is a former Googler and senior digital consultant with over 17+ years of experience working with global companies such as Google and Walmart. Imad holds a Master's degree in Computer and Communication Engineering from Université Saint Joseph and a Master of Science in Marketing and Management from HEC Paris. He is currently pursuing a Doctorate in the field of artificial intelligence. Outside of his digital consulting engagements, IJK spends his time developing his podcast and music.

  1. Josh Rasmussen | Why Is There Something Rather Than Nothing? | Ep 32

    6 days ago

    Josh Rasmussen | Why Is There Something Rather Than Nothing? | Ep 32

    In this episode of The IJK Podcast, Imad Jack Karam sits down with Prof. Joshua Rasmussen (Professor of Philosophy at Baylor University) to tackle one of the biggest questions anyone can ask: Why is there something rather than nothing? We explore whether reality points to an ultimate foundation—something necessary and independent—or whether explanation simply bottoms out in a brute fact. Whether you are a philosophy enthusiast or simply wish to learn more about the mystery of existence, expect a clear, friendly, and rigorous conversation covering: -The “something vs. nothing” question (and what counts as an explanation) -The case for a necessary foundation vs. brute fact or infinite regress -Why consciousness may be a key clue to ultimate reality -The strongest objections and where the real debate sits If you enjoy conversations on philosophy, consciousness, science, and the big questions behind our existence, this one’s for you. About Dr. Josh Rasmussen: Josh is professor of Philosophy at Baylor University. His work sits at the intersection of metaphysics, philosophy of mind, and philosophy of religion, with a focus on the biggest foundational questions—like “why anything exists at all”, and what consciousness can tell us about the nature of reality. He is the author of several influential books including "How Reason Can Lead to God", and he is currently developing a new book called "The Consciousness Key". To know more about Josh and his work, check: https://joshualrasmussen.com/ #IJKPodcast #JoshuaRasmussen #Philosophy #Metaphysics #Consciousness #Existence #AI #PhilosophyOfMind #bigquestions

    1hr 5min
  2. Mike Bechtel | Former Deloitte Chief Futurist on Real AI Value vs. Hype | Ep 31

    9 May

    Mike Bechtel | Former Deloitte Chief Futurist on Real AI Value vs. Hype | Ep 31

    In this episode of The IJK Podcast, Imad Jack Karam is joined by Mike Bechtel — professor, author, and former Chief Futurist at Deloitte Consulting — for a practical conversation on AI, innovation, leadership, and the future of work. We explore how leaders can think clearly about the future without getting lost in AI hype, where artificial intelligence is already creating real business value, what remains uniquely human in the age of automation, and what professionals can do now to stay relevant in a rapidly changing world. We also discuss why large organizations struggle to innovate, how to separate real signals from noise, and what practical steps leaders can take to prepare their teams and businesses for what’s next. Mike brings a rare mix of strategic insight and real-world experience. In addition to his former role at Deloitte, he teaches corporate innovation at the University of Notre Dame, previously served as Global Innovation Director at Accenture, and co-founded Ringleader Ventures. His work has been featured in outlets including Harvard Business Review, The Wall Street Journal, Reuters, Wired, NPR, and the World Economic Forum. Topics include: -AI hype vs. real value -The future of work -The future of innovation -Leadership in times of uncertainty -Human skills in the age of AI -Practical business strategies for adapting to change -Career advice for young grads in the age of AI Subscribe for more conversations on AI, business, technology, leadership, and big ideas. #MikeBechtel #AI #ArtificialIntelligence #FutureOfWork #Innovation #Leadership #BusinessStrategy #DigitalTransformation #Futurist #ijkpodcast

    1hr 1min
  3. Dr. Gil Carvalho | Nutrition Made Simple: What Science Really Says About Healthy Eating | Ep 29

    18 Apr

    Dr. Gil Carvalho | Nutrition Made Simple: What Science Really Says About Healthy Eating | Ep 29

    Nutrition is one of the most debated and confusing topics today. With countless diets, conflicting advice, and endless headlines, it can be difficult to know what the science actually says about healthy eating. In this episode of The IJK Podcast, Imad Jack Karam sits down with Dr. Gil Carvalho — physician, scientist, and creator of Nutrition Made Simple — to explore how to think about nutrition from an evidence-based perspective. We discuss why nutrition advice often conflicts, what scientific research broadly agrees on about healthy diets, and how people can apply practical principles to improve their health. The conversation also explores common diet myths, nutrition and longevity, cardiovascular health, and how modern dietary guidelines and food pyramids have evolved. Dr. Gil is known for translating complex nutrition research into clear, balanced explanations that help people cut through the noise and make better decisions about their health. If you’re looking for clarity in a field often dominated by trends and strong opinions, this conversation will help you understand how to approach nutrition scientifically. Topics discussed include: -Why nutrition advice often conflicts -The foundations of a healthy diet -Common diet myths and misconceptions -Nutrition and long-term health -Longevity and evidence-based lifestyle choices -How modern nutrition guidelines have evolved If you enjoyed this conversation, subscribe to The IJK Podcast for discussions with leading thinkers in business, science, health, technology, and philosophy.

    59 min
  4. Karl Ulrich | Innovation Tournaments: How Design, Selection and Customer Fit Create Winning Products | Ep 26

    07/12/2025

    Karl Ulrich | Innovation Tournaments: How Design, Selection and Customer Fit Create Winning Products | Ep 26

    How Great Products Are Really Made — with Wharton’s professor Karl Ulrich In this episode of the IJK Podcast, Imad Jack Karam interviews Professor Karl Ulrich, one of the world’s leading thinkers in innovation, product design, and entrepreneurship. Prof. Ulrich is the Vice Dean of Entrepreneurship & Innovation at the Wharton School, and author of two landmark works in the field: Product Design & Development and Innovation Tournaments His work has shaped how founders, innovators, and companies around the world generate ideas, design solutions, and build products that succeed in the real marketplace. He has co-founded multiple companies, holds numerous patents, and led the creation of Tangen Hall, the largest facility on the planet dedicated to student entrepreneurship. In this episode, we explore the real science behind innovation — why it’s not only about creativity but also about disciplined selection, structured tests and deep understanding of user needs. Topics we covered: -Why innovation is more discipline than just creativity -How Innovation Tournaments help find high-potential business ideas -Quantity vs. quality: why more ideas lead to better outcomes -Why design, engineering, and business must work together -How to move beyond “empathy theater” in design thinking -Tools to engineer product–market fit -The power of early, low-cost prototyping -How innovators make decisions under uncertainty -Building sustainable products -Whether AI will enhance or dilute the innovation process About Prof. Karl Ulrich Professor Karl Ulrich is Vice Dean of Entrepreneurship & Innovation at Wharton and Professor of Operations, Information and Decisions. He is widely recognized for his contributions to product design, innovation management, entrepreneurship, and commercialization, and his work has influenced how thousands of innovators build products that truly win. Follow his work here: https://ktulrich.com/ If you enjoyed this episode Please like, subscribe, and share The IJK Podcast — it helps us bring more world-class thinkers to the podcast.

    50 min
  5. Anthony Assi | The AI Revolution: How It's Transforming Jobs, Society & Human Potential | Ep 25

    01/12/2025

    Anthony Assi | The AI Revolution: How It's Transforming Jobs, Society & Human Potential | Ep 25

    How will the AI revolution reshape work, jobs, education and society? In this episode of The IJK Podcast, Imad-Jack Karam sits down once again with Anthony Assi, a seasoned technology leader with over 20 years of experience designing and architecting large-scale HPC/AI infrastructures, data centers, and cloud platforms. Anthony has worked with tech giants such as Google and Dell, and currently plays a key role at Oracle, helping shape next-generation AI and cloud systems. Together, we explore one of the most urgent questions of our time: How will the AI revolution transform careers, society and human potential? From the disruption of white-collar roles to the future of coding, from the skills young graduates need to the ethical lines we must not cross, this conversation dives deep into the opportunities — and challenges — that intelligent machines bring to our world. Topics Covered What makes the current AI revolution different from previous tech shiftsHow AI compares to the early days of the internetWhich jobs are at risk — and which will grow because of AIThe future of computer science degrees and whether coding is still “safe”How universities must adapt to stay relevantAI’s impact on inequality, society, and global opportunityThe human skills that will matter most in an AI-driven worldHow we can collaborate with AI instead of competing against itAnthony’s advice to today’s graduates entering the workforce Why This Episode Matters AI isn’t just another technology. It’s a force reshaping industries, rewiring education, and redefining the value of human creativity and judgment. If you’re a student, professional, or leader trying to understand how to thrive in this new era — this episode is for you. Watch, learn, and join the conversation about the future of human potential in the age of AI.

    1hr 4min

About

The IJK Podcast features thought-provoking conversations with leading voices in business, technology, science, philosophy, personal growth and human potential. Guests have included renowned figures such as Prof. John Lennox on AI and humanity’s future, Dr. Robert Cialdini on the psychology of influence, Jeff Booth on Bitcoin, Dr. William Lane Craig on God and morality, Jonathan Pageau on the crisis of meaning, Dr. Gil Carvalho on science based nutrition, and Dr. Sharon Dirckx on consciousness and the mind-body problem. Hosted by Imad Jack Karam, the IJK Podcast brings together world-class thinkers, experts, entrepreneurs, academics, and high achievers to explore the big ideas shaping our world — from artificial intelligence and the future of humanity to consciousness, high performance, business growth, science, faith and the search for meaning. What We Cover Business and Technology: Unlock the secrets of successful business strategies, entrepreneurship and the dynamic landscape of the corporate world. Learn from the experiences of seasoned professionals and trailblazers. Also, stay ahead of the curve with our in-depth discussions on the latest technological advancements, innovations and their impact on our rapidly evolving world. Science and Philosophy: Explore profound questions about existence, meaning and the universe through the lens of science and philosophy. We dive into thought-provoking ideas about the nature of reality, the relationship between reason and belief, and the pursuit of knowledge, connecting timeless wisdom with modern discoveries. Personal Development: Discover actionable insights to enhance your mindset, spirituality and overall well-being. Our discussions focus on personal growth strategies, cultivating resilience, and unlocking your full potential to navigate life’s challenges and opportunities with purpose. About IJK IJK (Imad Jack Karam) is a former Googler and senior digital consultant with over 17+ years of experience working with global companies such as Google and Walmart. Imad holds a Master's degree in Computer and Communication Engineering from Université Saint Joseph and a Master of Science in Marketing and Management from HEC Paris. He is currently pursuing a Doctorate in the field of artificial intelligence. Outside of his digital consulting engagements, IJK spends his time developing his podcast and music.