Systems and Power

Moses Parente

The future isn't built in headlines. It's built by people. Welcome to Systems & Power where technology, AI, cybersecurity, politics, business, and leadership come together through long-form conversations with the people building the future. Hosted by Moses Parente, each episode features engineers, founders, CEOs, elected officials, cybersecurity leaders, and innovators who share the stories, lessons, and decisions you won't normally hear If you're passionate about technology, curious about leadership, or want to understand how the world really works, you're in the right place. Subscribe for new episodes every Monday Contact : moses.parente251@gmail.com *DISCLAIMERS* On the Systems and Power Podcast we do not endorse, nor are we responsible for the opinions of our guests. We provide a platform to all opinions, under the premise that you will be heard, but also put to the test. Views expressed on this channel do not represent those of my employer.

  1. 1d ago

    The Gaming Industry ISN'T READY for What AI Is Doing - Shesh Gupta | Systems and Power Episode #15

    Shesh Narayan Gupta is an AI Researcher, Data Scientist and the Author of Generative AI for Game Development: Crafting Narrative Worlds with Machines. In this episode of Systems and Power, host Moses Parente sits down with data scientist, AI researcher, and author Shesh Narayan Gupta to explore how generative AI is changing the future of video games. From smarter NPCs and dynamic dialogue to AI-generated narratives and adaptive gameplay, Shesh breaks down how artificial intelligence can make virtual worlds feel more responsive, immersive, and alive. But with that power comes a major challenge: how do developers keep AI creative without losing control? We discuss the importance of deterministic rules, AI guardrails, character consistency, ethical safeguards, and the difficulty of proving that AI safety systems actually work in real-world environments. Shesh also shares insights from his book, Generative AI for Game Development, and explains how lessons from gaming can apply to AI systems far beyond entertainment. In this episode: • How generative AI is transforming game development • The future of intelligent NPCs and dynamic dialogue • AI-generated stories and adaptive gaming experiences • Why deterministic rules still matter • How developers balance creativity with control • AI guardrails, bias, and ethical considerations • Why some AI safeguards can actually make systems worse • What gaming can teach us about building safer AI • The future of AI-driven interactive worlds If you enjoyed the video: • Subscribe for more commentary and Systems & Power episodes • Like the video to support the channel • Leave a comment with your thoughts • Watch the full podcast conversation on the channel 📅 New episodes every Monday at 12 p.m. ET 🎧 Listen and watch: ▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@itsmosesparente 🎙️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/033OlrjypMa5fS2Uqn3zYD 🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/tj/podcast/systems-and-power/id6790180591 📱 Follow me: Instagram: @itsmosesparente TikTok: @itsmosesparente LinkedIn: Moses Parente DISCLAIMERS The Systems & Power Podcast does not endorse or assume responsibility for the opinions expressed by its guests. We provide a platform for different perspectives under the premise that ideas should be heard, questioned, and put to the test. The views expressed on this channel are my own and do not represent those of my employer.

  2. Oct 5

    Why Everyone Is PANICKING About AI, Is AI Doomerism Overblown? - Niel Pal | Systems and Power #14

    Niel Pal returns to the Systems & Power Podcast for a wide-ranging conversation about where artificial intelligence is heading next and whether the fear surrounding AI has gone too far. In this episode, Moses Parente and Niel discuss the rise of AI agents, increasingly capable AI models, and the growing debate around AI Doomerism. They explore how quickly these systems are improving, how new AI features could change everyday work and decision-making, and whether public fear is keeping pace with what the technology can actually do. The conversation also moves into prediction markets and insider trading, the role of information asymmetry in markets, and the rapid rise of GLP-1 medications as a potential response to obesity. Topics include: • AI agents and autonomous systems • New capabilities in modern AI models • Whether AI doomerism is overblown • Public perception of artificial intelligence • Prediction markets and insider trading • Information asymmetry and market ethics • GLP-1 medications and obesity • How technology is reshaping culture and behavior This episode looks at the intersection of technology, markets, health, and society and what happens when innovation moves faster than public understanding. Check out Siddharth Niel Pal: Instagram: @snpal2000 TikTok: @nielpal2 LinkedIn: Siddharth Niel Pal If you enjoyed the video: • Subscribe for more commentary and Systems & Power episodes • Like the video to support the channel • Leave a comment with your thoughts • Watch the full podcast conversation on the channel 📅 New episodes every Monday at 12 p.m. ET 🎧 Listen and watch: ▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@itsmosesparente 🎙️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/033OlrjypMa5fS2Uqn3zYD 🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/tj/podcast/systems-and-power/id6790180591 📱 Follow me: Instagram: @itsmosesparente TikTok: @itsmosesparente LinkedIn: Moses Parente DISCLAIMERS The Systems & Power Podcast does not endorse or assume responsibility for the opinions expressed by its guests. We provide a platform for different perspectives under the premise that ideas should be heard, questioned, and put to the test. The views expressed on this channel are my own and do not represent those of my employer.

  3. Sep 28

    THE BRUTAL REALITY About America’s Economic Future and Debt - Mathew Bradbury | Systems & Power #13

    Dr. Mathew Bradbury is an economist and lecturer at Queens College, CUNY, whose work focuses on macroeconomics, monetary economics, political economy, and sovereign debt risk and sustainability. He earned both his B.S. in Economics and Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Utah. In this episode of the Systems & Power Podcast, Moses sits down with Dr. Bradbury to break down some of the biggest economic questions facing the United States today — from the national debt and government deficits to inflation, interest rates, monetary policy, and the long-term sustainability of the U.S. economy. We discuss what the national debt actually means, when government borrowing becomes a real problem, how the Federal Reserve influences the economy, and why economic issues that sound simple in political debates are often much more complicated in practice. Whether you're interested in economics, public policy, finance, or simply want a better understanding of how the U.S. economy works, this conversation offers a practical look at the forces shaping our financial system. Be sure to check out the following: Penn-Wharton budget model projections: https://budgetmodel.wharton.upenn.edu/ CBO Debt reduction strategies: https://www.cbo.gov/publication/60557 If you enjoyed the video: • Subscribe for more commentary and Systems & Power episodes • Like the video to support the channel • Leave a comment with your thoughts • Watch the full podcast conversation on the channel 📅 New episodes every Monday at 12 p.m. ET 🎧 Listen and watch: ▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@itsmosesparente 🎙️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/033OlrjypMa5fS2Uqn3zYD 🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/tj/podcast/systems-and-power/id6790180591 📱 Follow me: Instagram: @itsmosesparente TikTok: @itsmosesparente LinkedIn: Moses Parente DISCLAIMERS The Systems & Power Podcast does not endorse or assume responsibility for the opinions expressed by its guests. We provide a platform for different perspectives under the premise that ideas should be heard, questioned, and put to the test. The views expressed on this channel are my own and do not represent those of my employer.

  4. Sep 21

    Your Degree DOESN’T Matter, The Networking Game Nobody Teaches - Asli Erem | Systems & Power #12

    In this episode of the Systems & Power Podcast, host Moses Parente speaks with Asli Erem about her unconventional journey from studying anthropology to becoming a competitive powerlifter and eventually breaking into New York City’s startup scene. They discuss the sense of community within powerlifting, the barriers CUNY students often face when trying to access startup opportunities, and how COVID-19 affected social skills, networking, and professional development. Asli also shares her perspective on the job market for recent graduates and why networking, communication, and marketing skills can be just as important as technical ability. The conversation also explores content creation, digital marketing, and Asli’s background in anthropology and archaeology. She reflects on the importance of storytelling in travel content, the way social media can distort perceptions of reality, and current trends in fitness and health. Asli also talks about the value of stepping outside your comfort zone, building relationships, and using diverse experiences as a source of personal and professional growth. The episode closes with a look at her future ambitions and how technology may continue to shape the fields of anthropology, media, and entrepreneurship. If you enjoyed the video: • Subscribe for more commentary and Systems & Power episodes • Like the video to support the channel • Leave a comment with your thoughts • Watch the full podcast conversation on the channel 📅 New episodes every Monday at 12 p.m. ET 🎧 Listen and watch: ▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@itsmosesparente 🎙️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/033OlrjypMa5fS2Uqn3zYD 🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/tj/podcast/systems-and-power/id6790180591 📱 Follow me: Instagram: @itsmosesparente TikTok: @itsmosesparente LinkedIn: Moses Parente DISCLAIMERS The Systems & Power Podcast does not endorse or assume responsibility for the opinions expressed by its guests. We provide a platform for different perspectives under the premise that ideas should be heard, questioned, and put to the test. The views expressed on this channel are my own and do not represent those of my employer.

  5. Sep 14

    The Dark Side of Startup Culture, Hacker Houses and VC - Louis Cubero | Systems and Power #11

    In this episode of the Systems and Power Podcast, host Moses Parente sits down with Louis Cubero to discuss his journey through social media, freelancing for startups, and navigating the fast-moving world of tech and entrepreneurship. Louis shares what he learned from living and working in hacker houses, building relationships in startup communities, and trying to stand out in an increasingly crowded online landscape. They also explore the importance of genuine networking, the challenges of building a personal brand, and why founders should be careful about treating venture capital as the default path to success. Louis offers a candid look at the realities of startup culture, community building, and finding your place in an ecosystem where attention, credibility, and connections can matter just as much as the product itself. If you enjoyed the video: • Subscribe for more commentary and Systems & Power episodes • Like the video to support the channel • Leave a comment with your thoughts on AI agents • Watch the full podcast conversation on the channel 📅 New episodes every Monday at 12 p.m. ET 🎧 Listen and watch: ▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@itsmosesparente 🎙️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/033OlrjypMa5fS2Uqn3zYD 🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/tj/podcast/systems-and-power/id6790180591 📱 Follow me: Instagram: @itsmosesparente TikTok: @itsmosesparente LinkedIn: Moses Parente DISCLAIMERS The Systems & Power Podcast does not endorse or assume responsibility for the opinions expressed by its guests. We provide a platform for different perspectives under the premise that ideas should be heard, questioned, and put to the test. The views expressed on this channel are my own and do not represent those of my employer.

  6. Sep 7

    AI Agents Are Moving Into the Real World - Bo Brainerd, Ophelia | Systems and Power #10

    In this episode of the Systems & Power Podcast, host Moses Parente sits down with Bo Brainerd, CEO and founder of Ophelia, to discuss startups, AI agents, infrastructure, and the future of software. Bo shares her journey from politics into the tech industry, explaining how grassroots political organizing and startup building have more in common than you might think. She breaks down the idea behind Ophelia, a technology layer designed to connect consumer software and AI agents with real-world services and capabilities. The conversation explores the challenges of building infrastructure for a new category of software, the importance of open-source tools, and how startups can integrate AI agents into their products without rebuilding everything from scratch. Bo also discusses New York City's growing startup ecosystem, how AI could reshape jobs and enterprise companies, and her long-term vision for giving software the ability to take meaningful action in the real world. Topics include: • Building Ophelia from the ground up • AI agents and the future of startups • Connecting software to real-world services • Open-source infrastructure and developer tools • Politics, grassroots organizing, and entrepreneurship • New York City's startup ecosystem • How AI could change jobs and the workforce • The future of enterprise software • Building infrastructure for an AI-native economy If you enjoyed the conversation: • Subscribe for more Systems & Power episodes • Like the video to support the channel • Comment with your thoughts on AI agents and the future of work • Check out more full podcast conversations on the channel 📅 New episodes every Monday at 12 p.m. ET 🎧 Listen & Watch ▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@itsmosesparente 🎙️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/033OlrjypMa5fS2Uqn3zYD 🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/tj/podcast/systems-and-power/id6790180591 📱 Follow Moses Parente Instagram: @itsmosesparente TikTok: @itsmosesparente LinkedIn: Moses Parente DISCLAIMERS The Systems & Power Podcast does not endorse or assume responsibility for the opinions expressed by its guests. We provide a platform for different perspectives under the premise that ideas should be heard, questioned, and put to the test. The views expressed on this channel are my own and do not represent those of my employer.

  7. Aug 31

    Why Gen Z has Lost Faith in Politics, School and Jobs - Brandon Castro | Systems and Power #9

    In this episode of the Systems in Power Podcast, host Moses interviews Brandon Castro, the Republican candidate for New York's 30th Assembly District. They discuss the dynamics of the recent primary election, the challenges of running against an established political family, and Castro's unique position as an outsider. The conversation delves into Castro's campaign platform, which emphasizes infrastructure improvements, housing solutions, and the role of AI in education. Here Castro shares his vision for a more inclusive political landscape and the importance of engaging with the community on various issues. In this conversation, Moses and Brandon discuss the challenges faced by Gen Z in the job market, the need for educational reform to better align with current job demands, and the rise of anti-establishment movements like the DSA. They also explore the influence of corporate money in politics and the importance of authentic leadership that prioritizes community needs over party lines. If you enjoyed the video: • Subscribe for more commentary and Systems & Power episodes • Like the video to support the channel • Leave a comment with your thoughts on AI agents • Watch the full podcast conversation on the channel 📅 New episodes every Monday at 12 p.m. ET 🎧 Listen and watch: ▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@itsmosesparente 🎙️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/033OlrjypMa5fS2Uqn3zYD 🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/tj/podcast/systems-and-power/id6790180591 📱 Follow me: Instagram: @itsmosesparente TikTok: @itsmosesparente LinkedIn: Moses Parente DISCLAIMERS The Systems & Power Podcast does not endorse or assume responsibility for the opinions expressed by its guests. We provide a platform for different perspectives under the premise that ideas should be heard, questioned, and put to the test. The views expressed on this channel are my own and do not represent those of my employer.

  8. Aug 25

    Is AOC the Future of the Democratic Party? - Joe Silverstein | Systems & Power #8

    In this episode of the Systems & Power Podcast, Moses Parente sits down with recent law school graduate and political commentator Joe Silverstein. They discuss Joe’s journey from combat sports into politics and media, the changing Democratic Party, AOC and the DSA’s growing influence, and how affordability is reshaping politics in New York City. The conversation also explores social media’s influence on campaigns, immigration and sanctuary-city policies, political hypocrisy, ideological pressure in academia, and the importance of engaging in local politics—even when people strongly disagree. If you enjoyed the video: • Subscribe for more commentary and Systems & Power episodes • Like the video to help support the channel • Leave a comment and let me know what you want me to talk about next • Check out the Systems and Power podcast interviews on the channel Follow me: Instagram:   / itsmosesparente   Linkedin:    / m0ses-par.  . 📅 New episodes weekly on Monday 12 pm EST 🎧 Listen & Watch: ▶️ YouTube: /@itsmosesparente 🎙️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/033OlrjypMa5fS2Uqn3zYD?si=99f7e0232c874801  🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/tj/podcast/systems-and-power/id6790180591 📱 Follow on Social Media 🔥 Instagram: /itsmosesparente 🔥 TikTok: /itsmosesparente DISCLAIMERS  On the Systems and Power Podcast we do not endorse, nor are we responsible for the opinions of our guests.  We provide a platform to all opinions, under the premise that you will be heard, but also put to the test. Views expressed on this channel do not represent those of my employer.

About

The future isn't built in headlines. It's built by people. Welcome to Systems & Power where technology, AI, cybersecurity, politics, business, and leadership come together through long-form conversations with the people building the future. Hosted by Moses Parente, each episode features engineers, founders, CEOs, elected officials, cybersecurity leaders, and innovators who share the stories, lessons, and decisions you won't normally hear If you're passionate about technology, curious about leadership, or want to understand how the world really works, you're in the right place. Subscribe for new episodes every Monday Contact : moses.parente251@gmail.com *DISCLAIMERS* On the Systems and Power Podcast we do not endorse, nor are we responsible for the opinions of our guests. We provide a platform to all opinions, under the premise that you will be heard, but also put to the test. Views expressed on this channel do not represent those of my employer.