Future-Focused with Christopher Lind

Christopher Lind
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Future-Focused with Christopher Lind

Join Christopher as he navigates the diverse intersection of business, technology, and the human experience. And, to be clear, the purpose isn’t just to explore technologies but to unravel the profound ways these tech advancements are reshaping our lives, work, and interactions. We dive into the heart of digital transformation, the human side of tech evolution, and the synchronization that drives innovation and business success. Also, be sure to check out my Substack for weekly, digestible reflections on all the latest happenings. https://christopherlind.substack.com

  1. 5 DAYS AGO

    Weekly Update | Rise of Robotheism | AI Physicians | AI Work Adoption | Autonomous Military | AI Combatting Scammers

    Welcome to another Weekly Update as we come into the end of November! Let's get straight into it! Rise of Robotheism - Is AI becoming a new religion? While I don’t anticipate many people will sign up to worship at the altar of OpenAI, there’s a growing trend in tech leaders and people looking for AI to save us. It gained enough popularity it even had a label. AI Physician Replacement - Elon Musk recently went on record saying it won’t be long before AI replaces doctors and lawyers, and some recent findings out of John Hopkins would give some the impression he’s right. However, I think a deeper analysis would argue, not quite. AI Work Transformation - A Microsoft software engineer recently shared how while AI is doing much of his coding, he still has plenty of work to do. It seems some of the concerns about AI replacing workers aren’t holding water, and some research about organizational adoption will further mitigate the risks. Autonomous Military - The US military is confident their multi-billion dollar investment in AI will pay dividends, but what kind of metrics do you use to measure success? And, what ethical considerations are being taken? This is essential as we’re already seeing fully autonomous weapons being field tested. AI Scammer Defense - The elderly are primary targets for international scammers and they ruin the lives of countless people daily. However, I love how one EU telecom company is fighting back with a cleverly named AI “dAIsy.” Show Notes: In this Weekly Update, Christopher explores the convergence of AI, technology, and the human experience. He discusses 'robo-theism' and the belief among certain tech leaders that AI could become a new deity. Christopher responds to Elon Musk’s comments about the potential of AI to replace doctors and lawyers, also highlighting recent research from John Hopkins University. Additionally, he examines the slow adoption of AI by companies due to data and infrastructure challenges. He further digs into the rise of AI in the military, raising ethical concerns about autonomous weapons. Finally, on a lighter note, he shares how a UK telecom company is using an AI bot named DAISY to waste the time of phone scammers. 00:00 - Introduction and Welcome 01:30 - Exploring Robo-Theism and AI as a Deity 18:02 - The Future of AI in Medicine and Law 26:15 - AI in Software Development 37:36 - AI in the Military: Ethical and Philosophical Concerns 48:38 - AI vs. Scammers: A Clever Solution 51:16 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts #robotheism #healthcare #futureofwork #ai #military

    52 min

  2. 15 NOV

    Weekly Update | Kindness Revolution | The AI Whisperverse | AI Parenting | Large Behavior Models (LBM)

    We are smack dab in the middle of November, and what a November it has been. As usual, there has been no shortage of turbulence and upheaval, which always makes it challenging to prioritize. However, a few notable topics made the top of my list. With that, let’s get to it. Kindness Revolution - In the wake of the 2024 election, tension remains high as people wrestle with the uncertainty of what’s ahead. Unfortunately, uncertainty doesn’t typically bring out the best in people, and we see that everywhere we look. Perhaps it’s time for a different kind of revolution as we prepare for 2025. AI Whisperverse - While many headlines point to some overt ways AI will influence human behavior, perhaps that’s not where our biggest concerns should sit. With AI quietly controlling where our attention is focused, it may influence us in ways we don’t even notice. That subtle influence has been given a label, and it’s as eerie as AI’s influence. AI Parenting - New parents may be one of the easiest targets for overpriced gadgets and gizmos as they adjust to caring for their little humans. The AI boom has locked onto that opportunity with a new wave of devices designed to make parenting easier, but is it a helpful trend or distraction from some of life’s most precious moments? Large Behavior Models - If you’ve been trying to keep track of all the AI jargon and were just getting your arms around LLMs, hold onto your hat. LLMs are quickly becoming old hat as LBMs make their way to the main stage. With their improved capabilities in human-like performance, they’re garnering attention in use cases related to interpersonal interaction. Will this be the next wave of AI innovation? Only time will tell. Show Notes: In this Weekly Update, Christopher emphasizes the importance of kindness and understanding in a polarized world. He reflects on personal experiences with vitriol and the value of empathy in difficult conversations. He also discusses the rise of 'Whisperverse' AI, the ethical challenges of AI parenting tools, and the future potential of Large Behavior Models (LBMs) over Large Language Models (LLMs). He highlights the necessity for critical thinking in an age of AI-driven convenience and the implications for future technological innovations. 00:00 - Introduction and Welcome 01:29 - Navigating Post-Election Emotions 11:08 - Encouragement for Authentic Leadership 19:39 - The Rise of AI and the Whisperverse 30:05 - AI Parenting: Convenience vs. Connection 40:28 - The Rise of Large Behavior Models 47:57 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts #AI #Parenting #Kindness #Relationships #TechTrends

    48 min

  3. 8 NOV

    Weekly Update | Russia Fines Google | AI Compute Deficiency | AI Conflict Resolution | AI Touch | AI Coding | Reimagining Learning

    Happy Friday Everyone! And, what a week it has been. Whether your candidate of choice won or lost, I think we can mutually agree we'd all benefit from a collective sigh, even if for different reasons, and stiff drink as we slide into the weekend. While the election dominated many headlines, there was no shortage of things happening at the intersection of business, technology, and the human experience. With that, let's get into it. Russia Fines Google - When you see a country fining a company for a collective total that exceeds the global GDP, you naturally assume it must be for something egregious. Discovering it's for being mad that a YouTube Channel got blocked leaves you shaking your head. However, there's more to this behavior than meets the eye. AGI or Lack of Compute - There's a lot of what can seem like double talk in the AI space, and this week Sam Altman is in the headlines for it. In one breath he says we will achieve AGI with the current hardware. In another he says progress is slowing due to lack of compute. Which one is it? It can be both, but it does speak to the innovation curve we're on. AI Conflict Resolution - How would you feel if your spouse or partner responded to an argument with a clearly AI-generated response? Well, it's becoming a common activity and not everyone appreciates it. While I see tremendous value in AI helping you think through difficult and emotionally charged situations, the heart of your approach is what determines the outcome. Meta's AI Touch - Meta recently announced they'd cracked the code to give AI the ability to "feel," but what does that really look like and what does it mean? I'd argue it's still a bit early to fully know, but it's incredible to see how technology has deconstructed what was formerly a uniquely human capability into a digital alternative. Rise of AI Coders - Google boasts that 25% of all its new code is written by AI. However, one has to ask, what parameters are they using to define newly written code? Depending on the answer to that question, I'd argue that 25% is either vastly too low or a gross overestimate. Either way, there's no denying AI is and will continue radically changing jobs and the skills people need to thrive. Reimagining Learning Outcomes - I sympathize with the student who's having the book thrown at him for using AI on his research paper, especially since every one of his peers is doing the same thing. However, the legal response is resulting in what I believe is a positive and much-needed action, reimaging learning outcomes. After all, is how students type words on a screen really what we want to measure? Show Notes: In this Weekly Update, Christopher covers the usual range of topics, blending business, technology, and human experience. Key discussions include Russia's exorbitant fine against Google and its implications on credibility and technology rights, predictions about the future of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) and the current limits due to compute power, the use of AI in resolving personal arguments and the associated risks and benefits, Meta's advancements in AI's ability to perceive touch, and the increasing role of AI in coding at Google. Additionally, the episode examines a controversial academic case from Massachusetts involving a student using AI for a research paper, prompting a debate on redefining academic integrity in the age of AI. 00:00 Introduction and Weekly Update Overview 01:40 Russia's Unenforceable Fine Against Google 13:37 Sam Altman's Contradictory Statements on AGI 20:28 AI in Relationships: A Double-Edged Sword 28:49 Meta's Breakthrough in AI Sensory Perception 32:41 AI Impact on Google Coding 42:46 AI in Education: A Controversial Case 53:02 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections #ai #education #meta #google #futureofwork

    54 min

  4. 1 NOV

    Weekly Update | OpenAI Safety Dismantled | Meta Lawsuit | AI Wrongful Death | Chanel AI Mishap | AI vs. Humans Research

    DescriptionHappy Friday, everyone, and congratulations on making it through another week. What better way to kick off November 2024 than a rundown on the latest happenings at the intersection of business, technology, and human experience? As usual, I picked five of my favorites. With that, let’s get into it. OpenAI Safety Team Disbands, Again - OpenAI is making headlines as their safety team falls apart yet again after losing executive Miles Brundage. While some of the noise around it is likely just noise, his cryptic warning that OpenAI is not ready for what it’s created has some folks rightfully perking up their eyes and ears. Meta Social Media Lawsuits - While big tech companies keep trying to use Section 230 as an immunity shield from the negative impact of social media, a judge has determined lawsuits will be allowed. What exactly that will mean for Meta and other big tech companies is still TBD, but they will see their day in court. Google & Character.AI Sued - It’s tragic whenever someone takes their life. It’s even more tragic when it’s a teenager fueled to take the path by an AI bot. While AI bots are promoted as “for entertainment purposes only,” it’s obvious entertainment isn’t the only outcome. We continue seeing new legal precedents being established, and it’s just the beginning. GenAI Bias Flub with Chanel - I’m not exactly sure what Chanel’s CEO Leena Nair expected when she asked AI to create an image of her executive team or why on earth anyone at Microsoft moved forward with the request during her headquarters visit. However, it demonstrated how far we still have to go in mitigating bias in AI training data and why it’s so important to use AI properly. AI vs. Humans Research - Where is AI better than humans and vice versa? A recent study tried to answer that question. Unfortunately, while the data validates many of the things we already know, it also is ripe for cherry-picking, depending on the story you’re trying to tell. While there were some interesting findings, I won’t be retracting any of my previous statements based on the results. #ai #ethicalAI #Meta #Microsoft #lawsuit

    59 min

  5. 25 OCT

    Weekly Update | AI Cover Letters | Al Pacino Wisdom | Walmart Exec RTO | AI Resurrection | Chipotle AI Recruiting

    I hope you’ve had another fantastic week and are coming into the home stretch before the weekend. What better way to celebrate than to run through some of the latest happenings at the intersection of business, technology, and human experience? With that, let’s get to it. AI Job Seeking Gone Wrong - If you’re going to use AI to help write a cover letter, and I’d strongly encourage you to do so, please at least take the time to proof it for [insert info here] gaps. The rise in failure to do so is causing a lot of noise, but is it an AI problem or a people problem? Lessons from Al Pacino - While I have my concerns about people becoming overdependent on AI, it’s not an issue limited to AI use. Just ask “The Godfather.” Al Pacino has an incredible story about how taking his eye off the ball left him discovering he was bankrupt in his 70s. So, don’t think avoiding AI means you’re secure. Walmart RTO Response - Walmart and 3M are two of the latest big players in the news for their questionable RTO policies, but one Walmart C-suite exec is taking a stand. Rather than relocate to somewhere in Arkansas, Walmart’s CTO opted to leave the company. It’s encouraging when folks at the top are willing to go against the current. Undesired AI Ressurection - I’ve talked on multiple occasions about the risks of looking to AI for the artificial resurrection of lost loved ones through ghostbots, but how would you feel if your lost loved one was resurrected without your knowledge? One father made his feelings pretty clear when he discovered his tragically murdered daughter on Character.ai. Chipotle AI Recruiting - I love a good pun, and if you interview at Chipotle anytime soon, you may get to interact with one literally. That’s right, they’ve created an AI bot “Ava Cado” to help streamline their hiring. Only time will tell how it all plays out. However, based on my initial investigation into their strategy and plan, I’d give it my AI stamp of approval. Show Notes: In this weekly update, Christopher explores the intelligent use of Generative AI (Gen AI) in job applications, emphasizing the importance of providing thoughtful prompts and avoiding lazy mistakes. The discussion extends to the ethical concerns of AI, such as the unauthorized use of a deceased individual's likeness and the need for better governance. He shares Al Pacino's story of financial recovery highlighting resilience and responsibility, and address financial uncertainty, affirming the value of personal effort over material wealth. Additionally, he examines the impact of return-to-office mandates by major companies like Walmart and 3M, offering advice for employees. Highlighting Chipotle's AI-driven recruitment process 'Ava Cado', we showcase how AI can streamline operations while discussing the broader implications for the future of recruitment. Tune in for a blend of practical advice, ethical insights, and predictions on AI's role in business and technology. 00:00 - Introduction and Weekly Update Overview 01:36 - The Viral ChatGPT Cover Letter Controversy 11:37 - Al Pacino's Financial Downfall and Recovery 20:14 - Return to Office Mandates: Walmart and 3M 31:08 - Unwanted AI Resurrection 39:43 - Chipotle's AI Recruiting Strategy 48:46 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts #ai #recruiting #flexibleworking #strategy #ghostbots

    51 min

  6. 22 OCT

    The Hard Truth of Humanoid Robotics: Discerning Science Fiction from Reality

    Ever wondered if the futuristic robots we see in movies are just around the corner? Spoiler alert: we're not there yet, but we're making fascinating strides. In this episode, I talk with Jerry Swafford, PhD, a brilliant mind in AI and robotics, to peel back the layers of hype and unveil the real state of humanoid robotics. Jerry brings a wealth of diverse experience, from tinkering with robotic arms for Rolls Royce to pioneering AI-based controllers for humanoid robots. We dig into the heart of the matter, exploring the incredible advancements that have been made, the significant challenges still facing the field, and the ethical considerations we can't ignore. Are we on the brink of an AI revolution, or are we staring down the barrel of an "AI winter"? As you've probably come to expect, you'll find a balanced discussion, clearly separating science fiction from the reality of where we truly stand with humanoid robots. However, I'm confident this episode will challenge your perceptions, ignite your curiosity, and leave you with a clearer understanding of what's possible – and what's not – in the world of AI and robotics. Show Notes: In this episode, Christopher explores the fascinating world of AI and robotics with guest Jerry Swafford, PhD. Jerry shares his journey from Nashville to becoming a specialist in AI and robotics, discussing his research on robotic arms, UAV swarms, and humanoid robots. They explore the complexities of humanoid stability and balance, the advancements in hardware and software, and the potential future of robotics in various sectors. The conversation also touches on the ethical and societal implications of advanced AI and robotics, emphasizing the need for careful development to avoid potential pitfalls. Whether you're an AI enthusiast or a newcomer, this episode offers deep insights into the current state and future possibilities of AI and robotics. 00:00 - Introduction 01:06 - Guest Introduction: Jerry Swafford, PhD 04:44 - Advancements in Drone Technology 15:36 - Challenges in Humanoid Robotics 26:58 - The Rise of Humanoid Robotics 31:53 - Current Limitations and Future Prospects 35:19 - The Role of Large Language Models 38:45 - The Future of AI and Robotics 53:52 - Potential Risks and Ethical Concerns 58:34 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts #ai #robotics #humanoids #techtrends #ethicalai

    1 hr

  7. 18 OCT

    Weekly Update | SpaceX Starship | Tesla's "We, Robot" | Amazon Nuclear Deal | Nudify Bots | AI Human-Level Reasoning

    Happy Friday, everyone, and congratulations on making it through another week. While temperatures may be dropping here in Wisconsin, the intersection of business, tech, and human experience continues heating up. As usual, I've got a rundown on some of the most notable, so let's get rolling. SpaceX Starship - While I always thought the moon landing videos were cool, I never fully understood why people got so excited about them. That is until I watched the SpaceX Starship catch this week. While I continue struggling to understand the end game of space exploration, I couldn’t resist jumping off the couch as the tower perfectly caught that rocket. Tesla's "We, Robot" - Tesla's latest big event had all the elements of an actual Hollywood event, including the immeasurable amount of hot air and empty promises being blown around. Whether you want to talk about the remotely-managed Tesla robots or the impractical CyberCabs, there was no shortage of fluff. However, I'll at least acknowledge that it was a pretty solid SciFi event. Amazon's Gone Nuclear - You know, I was just thinking to myself, “We need mini nuclear power plants everywhere.” Like their same-day delivery, Amazon has delivered with a $500M investment in modular nuclear power to fuel the growing energy demand of AI. Maybe it’s just my growing up on The Simpsons, but I can’t help but wonder if this might not work out so well. Nudity Bot Chaos - There are a handful of AI applications I feel strongly have no redeeming qualities, and undressing or nudifying bots/apps are one of them. The ability to exploit someone without their consent for your satisfaction isn’t okay under any circumstance. Unfortunately, there’s an exponential rise in them, and the damage they’re causing is horrendous. I get people get feisty about “governance,” but there are some things that just shouldn’t be allowed. AI Human-Level Reasoning - Based on some sources, you’d think AI surpassed human capability in early 2023, but according to Meta’s AI Chief Scientist, we’re a long way out. He goes so far as to say the AI modeling we’d need to get there is nothing more than a theory. What I find most interesting about his “solution” is its circular logic. While it is an interesting theory, I don’t see us ever getting there. #ai #amazon #meta #tesla #spacex

    50 min

  8. 11 OCT

    Weekly Update | ChatGPT 'Canvas' | AI Interviews | AI Sentience | RTO Insanity | Meta MovieGen

    Happy Friday Everyone! Congratulations on making it through another week. If you've been following me for a long time, you know what that means! Another rundown of the latest happenings at the intersection of business, technology, and human experience. With that, let's get to it. ChatGPT 'Canvas' - OpenAI hits back at Anthropic's 'Artifacts' with their latest enhancement, 'Canvas,' which is a surprisingly helpful tool once you get the hang of it. While far from perfect, we're starting to see how GenAI is evolving from a one-shot, prompt hero to a surgical, on-demand collaborative partner. AI Interviews - The number of people I've recently talked with who were caught off guard when welcomed to an interview by a notification they'll be talking with an AI Bot is astonishing. While I see the potential, based on their feedback, I'm not convinced we've learned our lesson from the previous messes of AI screening. AI Sentience - I have a pretty diverse list of AI leaders I appreciate, Mo Gawdat being one of them. However, he's taking some heat for his comments about AI having already reached sentience, and I understand the criticism. However, I think rather than debating whether AI is or isn't truly sentient, we should instead focus on how good it is at convincing people it is. RTO Insanity - Can we finally all acknowledge this RTO nonsense is nothing more than a power trip? You first step in solving a problem is acknowledging you have one. A KPMG survey recently showed that nearly 90% of CEOs weren't even afraid to publicly acknowledge they support openly discriminating against people for no reason other than where they do their work. Please, can we stop the madness?! Meta MovieGen - Finally! You won't be limited to forging your family photo memories thanks to Meta. Soon, you can even enhance your video memories with AI. At this point, why bother even going on vacation? Just buy a green screen and record some videos in your house. A little AI magic and "poof," you and your family are world travelers. YouTubers have been doing it for years, but soon, you'll have the power in the palm of your hand. Show Notes: In this Weekly Update, Christopher explores the integration and advancements of AI in various spheres, particularly in workplace technology and human resources. Highlights from this week include the introduction of ChatGPT Canvas, designed for coding and writing, and a discussion on AI's role in interviews and potential biases. Christopher also debates the implications of AI as potentially sentient, drawing skepticism and varied opinions. Additionally, it critiques corporate strategies for returning employees to the office and the backlash from employees, warning about potential long-term implications. Finally, Christopher explores Meta's new MovieGen feature, raising both opportunities for creativity and concerns about digital authenticity. 00:00 - Introduction 01:39 - Exploring ChatGPT Canvas 10:57 - The Future of AI in Job Interviews 22:57 - Mo Gawdat's Controversial Views on AI Sentience 31:39 - The Return to Office Debate 42:13 - Meta's MovieGen: Revolutionizing Video Editing 47:53 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts #ai #genai #remotework #flexibleworking #futureofwork

    48 min
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About

Join Christopher as he navigates the diverse intersection of business, technology, and the human experience. And, to be clear, the purpose isn’t just to explore technologies but to unravel the profound ways these tech advancements are reshaping our lives, work, and interactions. We dive into the heart of digital transformation, the human side of tech evolution, and the synchronization that drives innovation and business success. Also, be sure to check out my Substack for weekly, digestible reflections on all the latest happenings. https://christopherlind.substack.com

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