Differentiated Understanding Podcast Season 1
AI 360: Culture, talent, tech, investment, business, supply chain, geopolitics, we'll cover it all
Hi all, I am incredibly excited to share a project I’ve started recently, which is the podcast Differentiated Understanding, powered by AI Proem.
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What does Differentiated Understanding mean?
In a world where there is no longer a massive barrier to obtaining information, diverse knowledge and perspectives are no longer rare. But what makes an insight or a way of doing things unique is differentiated understanding. Piecing together scattered information, parsing through noise and clout, and then succinctly forming your own understanding of the situation, event, business, or person. That is insight.
The theme of Season 1 is AI 360, where each episode features a guest discussing AI’s development from a different perspective, with a particular focus on China’s AI development.
The guest lineup is truly phenomenal, if I may say so myself. The podcast is available on Substack, YouTube, Spotify, and Apple.
Ep 1. Our very own Substack star on AI Culture in SV vs. China (Sept. 9)
In this conversation, I talk to Jasmine, an independent writer and podcaster, about her journey into writing, her experiences in Silicon Valley, and her reflections on the culture of the tech and AI community in both the US and China. We discuss the evolution of AI, the different approaches and mentality when approaching tech development, the shift in Silicon Valley's relationship with government, and the implications of AI psychosis. Jasmine shares insights on writing for Substack, her recent trip to China, the importance of community, and her unconventional belief in the benefits of AI for writers.
Ep 2. Cameron Johnson, who writes at on trade and supply chain disruption (Sept. 16)
In our second episode, I speak to Cameron Johnson, Senior Partner at Tidal Wave Solutions. Based in Shanghai, he is a seasoned expert on China’s economy and industry with over 25 years of experience in supply chains, manufacturing, and technology. A regular on Bloomberg, he dissects the advantages and disadvantages China has in physical AI and tech talent along the supply chain.
Ep 3. Professor Brian Wong, Assistant Professor at HKU, on China’s tech diplomacy and its role in SEA
In this conversation, Dr. Brian Wong discusses his research at the intersection of moral philosophy, technology, and geopolitics. He emphasizes the importance of understanding AI's impact on employment and the need for academia to adapt to teach AI effectively. Dr. Wong also explores China's tech diplomacy, highlighting its focus on self-sufficiency and global partnerships. He argues that Hong Kong's unique status is crucial for its role in global tech and governance, and he concludes with a reflection on the future of technology and humanity, stressing the importance of human values in the tech race.
Ep 4. Diana Wu David, Director of Future, Service Now, on the future of work
In this conversation, I speak to the Director of Futures at ServiceNow, Diana Wu David explore the transformative impact of AI on the future of work, discussing how organizations can adapt to this change. Diana was ranked number #2 futurist in the world by Global Gurus. She ran her own business for nearly a decade called Future Proof Lab where she worked with C-suite executives and boards to help them create future-focused, resilient organizations. In this episode, we delve into the challenges and opportunities presented by AI, the importance of measuring its effectiveness, and the cultural differences in technology adoption between the US and Asia. Diana emphasizes the need for a shift in organizational structures and the importance of preparing future generations for a rapidly evolving workforce. The discussion also touches on the necessity of fostering critical thinking and creativity in education to equip individuals for the future.
Ep. 5 Rui Ma, founder of TechBuzz China, investing in China’s internet and AI space
In this episode, we talk about China’s evolution from the internet era to the hyper-AI era. For most China tech investors and journalists, she needs no introduction. Rui is the founder of TechBuzz China and has long been a trusted go-to source for in-depth analysis on China’s internet businesses. She began her career in early-stage investing and, in recent years, has also advised AI companies, as well as established an AI school to prepare the next generation.
And more confirmed guests and episodes to come…
Wency Chen, Veteran China Tech and AI Reporter
- of Artificial Inquiry, former senior advisor for diplomacy in Biden’s administration
- , Digital Practice Partner at The Asia Group
Jing Yang, Asia Editor at The Information and former WSJ tech Reporter
Karen Hao, author of Empire of AI, TIMEAI100
- at on China-US tech diffusion and industrial policies
- , a 101 on chips and semiconductors
- on VC investing in AI - China vs. Silicon Valley
Wow this sounds incredible. Really looking forward to this.