Podcast
The Outside Context
Hosted by Jannah Patchay & Elise Soucie Watts · EN
"An Outside Context Problem was the sort of thing most civilizations encountered just once, and which they tended to encounter rather in the same way a sentence encountered a full stop." — Iain M. Banks, Excession. This podcast discusses challenges that fall into the outside context with the innovators and visionaries who are the forefront of technological change. It considers the big picture of technology, and why this matters for the future of human civilisation.
10episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
The Long Equation: Tech, Trust & Solving for Financial Inclusion
Apr 2900:47:13Tap to summarizeIn Episode 16 of The Outside Context, Kenneth Kou, Head of Venture Lab at Mercy Corps Ventures shares his journey from mathematics to impact investing, exploring how financial inclusion, blockchain technology, and innovative solutions can build a more inclusive and resilient global economy. Jannah Patchay and Elise Soucie Watts ask Ken all about the challenges of financial exclusion, the potential of crypto for good, and the future of societal development.Key TakeawaysKen Kou's impact journey from mathematics to social financeThe role of crypto and blockchain in financial inclusionChallenges and opportunities in emerging markets' financial systemsChapters01:07 - Ken Kou's Impact-Oriented Career Path02:02 - The Thread of Financial Inclusion03:38 - Mercy Corps Ventures and Humanitarian Investment05:11 - Venture Capital in Humanitarian and Emerging Markets08:14 - Persisting Challenges of Financial Exclusion10:00 - Technical vs Policy Failures in Financial Inclusion12:10 - Economic Barriers to Private Sector Investment15:13 - Crypto's Role in Financial Inclusion and Policy16:51 - Stablecoins and Cross-Border Transfers19:25 - Cryptocurrency's Potential in Humanitarian Aid and Trade Finance21:54 - Crypto for Good Fund and Pilot Programs23:42 - Learnings from Crypto Pilot Projects28:13 - Trust and Adoption Challenges in Financial Tech29:30 - Crypto and Climate Resilience Applications31:25 - Societal Development and Education in Tech Adoption33:14 - Long-term Impact of Technology on Humanity35:27 - The Vision of an Inclusive Society36:37 - Future of Open Borders and Global Mobility ResourcesMercy Corps VenturesConnect with Us:Follow The Outside Context on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcastsFollow Elise Soucie Watts and Jannah Patchay for more insights into the future of technology, civilisation & digital financeMessage us and tell us what you think of this episode, or share your ideas for future episodes - we’d love to hear from you! Sponsored by Unblocked & Markets Evolution© 2024 The Outside Context. All rights reserved.
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The Sixth Domain: Tech, Power, and the New Geopolitics
Apr 800:50:31Tap to summarizeIn episode 15 of The Outside Context, co-hosts Jannah Patchay and Elise Soucie Watts welcome Melanie Garson, an Associate Professor in International Security & Conflict Resolution at UCL as well as the Founder of GeopolitIQ, to discuss the intersection of technology and geopolitics. They explore the evolving landscape of tech geopolitics, the challenges of digital sovereignty, and the implications of cyber resilience in modern defence. The conversation dives into the future of warfare, the role of tech companies as geopolitical actors, and the importance of fostering resilience in individuals as we navigate an uncertain technological future.Key TakeawaysTech and geopolitics are increasingly intertwined, with technology shaping global power dynamics.Digital sovereignty poses significant challenges in a globalised world.Cybersecurity requires collaboration and information sharing among nations.The rise of AI and autonomous systems is transforming the defence landscape.Countries must prioritise their digital infrastructure to ensure national security.Tech companies are gaining power and influence in international relations.The future of warfare includes information warfare and cyber-attacks.Building resilience in individuals is crucial for navigating technological advancements.Optimism exists for the future IF we manage technology responsibly. Chapters00:00 - Welcoming Melanie Garson04:01 -Understanding Tech Geopolitics10:46 - Digital Sovereignty and its Challenges17:41 - The Evolving Cyber Landscape22:30 - The Future of Warfare - and Information Warfare28:45 - Tech Powers and Geopolitical Dynamics35.12 - Optimism for the Future of TechnologyConnect with Us:Follow The Outside Context on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcastsFollow Elise Soucie Watts and Jannah Patchay for more insights into the future of technology, civilisation & digital financeMessage us and tell us what you think of this episode, or share your ideas for future episodes - we’d love to hear from you! Sponsored by Unblocked & Markets Evolution© 2024 The Outside Context. All rights reserved.
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The New Invisible Hand: Machine Learning, Human Earning
Nov 2000:34:02Tap to summarizeIn Episode 14 of The Outside Context Elliot Hentov, chief macro policy strategist at State Street Investment Management, discusses the intersection of AI and macroeconomics. He explores the current state of AI's impact on productivity, investment trends, and the implications for inflation and economic growth. The conversation also shifts into the geopolitical competition surrounding AI dominance, particularly between the US and China, and concludes with reflections on future challenges and opportunities presented by AI. Key Takeaways:The impact of AI on productivity is still being assessed.Investment in AI has surged significantly in recent years.AI has the potential to be deflationary by lowering costs.The geopolitical race for AI dominance is ongoing and complex.Countries that innovate in AI will likely benefit economically.The labour market is experiencing mixed effects from AI adoption.Increased longevity due to AI advancements poses challenges for society.The future of AI investment may lead to both successes and failures.Chapters:00:00 - Introduction to AI and Macro Economics03:11 - The Current State of AI and Productivity05:44 - Sectoral Impacts of AI on Employment08:51 - Investment Trends in AI12:04 - Macroeconomic Implications of AI Investment14:53 - Geopolitical Competition in AI17:52 - Future Challenges and Opportunities with AIConnect with Us:Follow The Outside Context on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcastsFollow Elise Soucie Watts and Jannah Patchay for more insights into the future of technology, civilisation & digital financeMessage us and tell us what you think of this episode, or share your ideas for future episodes - we’d love to hear from you! Sponsored by Unblocked & Markets Evolution© 2024 The Outside Context. All rights reserved.
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Back to the Future: Notes on an Alien Earth
Oct 3000:48:27Tap to summarizeIn episode 13 of The Outside Context, Elise and Jannah reflect on their year of podcasting, discussing their experiences and the themes explored in previous episodes. They discuss the TV series 'Alien: Earth', examining it as a social commentary on technology, power and societal structures. The conversation then shifts to the implications of technological advancements, the ethical considerations surrounding them and the potential for inequality. They conclude by identifying AI as a significant ‘outside context’ problem facing civilisation today, while emphasising the importance of critical engagement with technology and its impact on society.Key Takeaways:In this episode the podcast celebrates a year of exploration and learning about new technologies and civilisation! Jannah & Elise also explore how:'Alien Earth' serves as a lens to discuss societal issues.Technology can empower but also control individuals.The commodification of life raises ethical concerns. Education must adapt to prepare future generations for tech-driven jobs.Misinformation is a significant challenge in today's society.AI poses both opportunities and risks for the future.Sustainability and social equity must align with technological progress.Critical thinking is essential in an information-rich world; and Engagement with diverse perspectives enriches the conversation.Chapters:00:00 - Welcome Back and Reflections on the Past Year01:42 - Exploring 'Alien: Earth' and its key themes12:19 - Technology, Power, and Control18:28 - Who Benefits from Technological Advancements?27:18 - Future Visions and Ethical Considerations43:54 - Identifying the Biggest Outside Context ProblemConnect with Us:Follow The Outside Context on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcastsFollow Elise Soucie Watts and Jannah Patchay for more insights into the future of technology, civilisation & digital financeMessage us and tell us what you think of this episode, or share your ideas for future episodes - we’d love to hear from you!Message us and tell us what you think of this episode, or share your ideas for future episodes - we’d love to hear from you! Sponsored by Unblocked & Markets Evolution© 2024 The Outside Context. All rights reserved.
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Teaching the Machine: Conscience and Truth in the Age of AI
Aug 2700:43:44Tap to summarizeIn episode 12 of The Outside Context, Haviva Kohl, Senior Program Manager at a Big Tech firm, shares her unique journey from being a sixth-grade teacher to working in tech, through to discussing the implications of AI, disinformation, and the defence of democracy. She emphasises the rapid pace of AI development and its potential impact on jobs and society, while also addressing the challenges of misinformation and the erosion of trust in institutions. The discussion explores the role of big tech in safeguarding democracy and the need for critical thinking and resilience in navigating the information landscape. Ultimately, Haviva expresses cautious optimism for the future, highlighting the importance of education and community engagement in fostering a more informed society. Key takeaways:Haviva's journey reflects a commitment to empowering individuals and communities.The pace of AI development is unprecedented and poses unique challenges.Disinformation threatens the core of Western civilization and trust in institutions. Democracies face structural disadvantages in combating disinformation compared to authoritarian regimes. Big tech firms have a role in safeguarding democracy but require careful regulation.Critical thinking is essential in navigating misinformation and disinformation.Education systems are struggling to keep up with technological advancements.There is hope for the future through the resilience of younger generations.Humans have the capacity to adapt and overcome challenges posed by technology.Building frameworks of trust around information is crucial for society.Connect with Us:Follow The Outside Context on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcastsFollow Elise Soucie Watts and Jannah Patchay for more insights into the future of technology, civilisation & digital financeMessage us and tell us what you think of this episode, or share your ideas for future episodes - we’d love to hear from you! Sponsored by Unblocked & Markets Evolution© 2024 The Outside Context. All rights reserved.
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Power, Protocols & Post-Scarcity: Where Venture Capital Goes Next
Aug 700:38:02Tap to summarizeIn episode 11 of The Outside Context, Rob Hadick, General Partner at Dragonfly, shares his journey from Wall Street to venture capital, discussing the evolving landscape of investment, particularly in the realms of blockchain and decentralised finance. He highlights the differences between traditional finance and the emerging tech-driven paradigms, emphasising the importance of networks and the changing role of VCs in a tighter funding environment. The discussion also shifts into geopolitical implications, the future of decentralisation, and the potential shifts in the global economic order, ultimately pondering the long-term future of venture capital in a rapidly changing world.Key TakeawaysRob Hadick transitioned from Wall Street to venture capital, focusing on tech's disruption of finance.The investment landscape is shifting towards AI, blockchain, and biotech as key areas for growth.Venture capital is seeing a hollowing out of the middle, with mega funds dominating the market. Decentralisation is becoming less of a priority for VCs, who are focusing on business viability.The future of VC may involve broader asset management strategies beyond traditional investments.Geopolitical tensions are influencing investment strategies and capital flows globally.The rise of digital currencies and stablecoins is reshaping the financial landscape.Investors are increasingly able to bootstrap companies without significant capital.The future economic order may see a consolidation of currencies and a shift in global power dynamics.Long-term, capital formation will remain essential, even in a post-scarcity world.Connect with Us:Follow The Outside Context on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcastsConnect with Rob Hadick on X @HadickMFollow Elise Soucie Watts and Jannah Patchay for more insights into the future of technology, civilisation & digital financeMessage us and tell us what you think of this episode, or share your ideas for future episodes - we’d love to hear from you! Sponsored by Unblocked & Markets Evolution© 2024 The Outside Context. All rights reserved.
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The Self, Sovereign: Reclaiming Control and the Future of Digital Identity
Jul 900:45:13Tap to summarizeIn episode 10 of The Outside Context, Seema Khinda Johnson, Co-Founder and COO of Nuggets, shares her journey in the tech industry and discusses the critical importance of digital identity in today's world. She emphasises the need for self-sovereign identity, the business case for digital identity solutions, and the challenges of inclusivity in identity verification and why "data is the new oil". Seema also addresses the potential pitfalls in the digital identity space and the urgency of establishing a robust identity framework to combat the growing authenticity crisis exacerbated by AI.Key takeawaysDigital identity is crucial for preventing data breaches.Self-sovereign identity gives individuals control over their data.Businesses need a compelling case to adopt digital identity solutions.The convenience of digital identity is essential for user adoption.Inclusivity in identity verification is a significant challenge.AI is changing the landscape of identity verification.Interoperability between identity standards is necessary.The technology for inclusive identity verification exists.Digital identity is critical infrastructure for the future.Connect with Us:Follow The Outside Context on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcastsConnect with Seema Khinda Johnson on LinkedInFollow Elise Soucie Watts and Jannah Patchay for more insights into the future of technology and financeJoin the Conversation: What excites or concerns you most about the future of digital identity and the importance of individual control over your data? Drop us a message on social media or leave a comment!Thanks for listening to Outside Context! If you enjoyed the episode, please rate, review, and subscribe!Message us and tell us what you think of this episode, or share your ideas for future episodes - we’d love to hear from you! Sponsored by Unblocked & Markets Evolution© 2024 The Outside Context. All rights reserved.
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Nailing It: Resetting the System for Women in Tech
Jun 4, 202500:35:15Tap to summarizeIn episode 9 of The Outside Context, Leah Winberg aka Winny, Founder of Chipped Social, shares her unique journey from a childhood passion for fashion to the tech world, culminating in the creation of Chipped, a revolutionary product that integrates NFC technology into fashion. The discussion explores the intersections of art, technology, and finance, emphasising the importance of diversity in tech and the role of women in shaping the future. Winny also addresses the challenges of sustainability in fashion and the potential for technology to influence society positively. The episode concludes with insights into the future of Chipped and the broader implications of technology in our lives.Key TakeawaysWinny's journey from fashion to tech began at a young age.Chipped started as a personal project before gaining traction.The intersection of art, tech, and finance is crucial for innovation.Diversity in tech is essential for creating inclusive products.Women control a significant portion of consumer spending.Embracing femininity in tech can lead to better products.Privacy should be prioritized in technology development.Sustainability in fashion is a pressing concern.Technology can empower individuals and communities.The future of fashion may shift towards more sustainable practices.Sound Bites"I want to build these things myself.""We need to get the girlies on chain.""Women control 85% of consumer spending.""I want to be leading this conversation."Chapters00:00 From Fashion to Tech: Winny's Journey02:51 The Birth of Chipped: Innovation in Fashion Tech06:02 Bridging Art, Tech, and Finance09:07 Empowering Women in Tech: The Importance of Diversity11:50 The Future of Technology and Its Impact on Society17:05 Fashion's Role in a Sustainable Future19:57 Final Thoughts and Future of ChippedMessage us and tell us what you think of this episode, or share your ideas for future episodes - we’d love to hear from you! Sponsored by Unblocked & Markets Evolution© 2024 The Outside Context. All rights reserved.
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Change, Capitalism & Cracks in the System: The Shift to Citizen Agency
May 2, 202500:34:42Tap to summarizeIn episode 8 of The Outside Context, Carne Ross discusses his journey from being a British diplomat to advocating for self-governance and participatory democracy. He highlights the current challenges facing democracy, including economic inequality and the influence of wealth on political systems. Ross emphasises the importance of technology in enabling democratic participation while also warning of its potential for surveillance and control. He explores the future of governance, suggesting that change must come from the bottom up, and imagines alternative societal models that prioritise human connection and agency.Key TakeawaysCarne Ross' transition from a belief in state governance to anarchism.The significant challenges facing democracy, including declining public confidence.How economic inequality contributes to the disenfranchisement of citizens.How real agency in democracy requires more than just voting every few years.Why change must come from grassroots movements and individual actions.Why technology can empower participatory democracy but also poses risks of surveillance.The challenge of wealth concentration leading to disproportionate political influence.How the current political system often only offers an illusion of choice.Historical examples show that self-governance is possible and has existed before.Why future societies may need to prioritise human connection over consumerism.Notable Quotes"Nothing about us without us.""Democracy is in great trouble.""People are denied economic agency.""Change comes from the bottom up.""Money is power.""Capitalism is a very clever system."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Carne Ross and His Journey02:29 The State of Democracy and Its Challenges06:56 The Role of Technology in Democracy10:55 The Influence of Wealth and Power16:43 The Future of Governance and Political Change21:34 Imagining Future Societies and Governance ModelsConnect with Us:Follow The Outside Context on SpotifyFollow Elise Soucie Watts and Jannah Patchay for more insights into the future of technology and financeJoin the Conversation: What do you think the future of governance and consumerism will look like? Drop us a message on social media or leave a comment!Thanks for listening to Outside Context! If you enjoyed the episode, please rate, review, and subscribe!Message us and tell us what you think of this episode, or share your ideas for future episodes - we’d love to hear from you! Sponsored by Unblocked & Markets Evolution© 2024 The Outside Context. All rights reserved.
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Code & Connectivity: Creating the Future Infrastructure for Smart Cities
Apr 9, 202500:41:18Tap to summarizeIn episode 7 of The Outside Context, co-hosts Elise Soucie Watts and Jannah Patchay sit down with Richard Baker, a technologist and futurist with a background in telecommunications and financial services. Richard shares his journey from engineering to finance and discusses the rapid evolution of technology and its impact on society. Together, they explore smart cities, digital identity, the future of data ownership and the integration of a native money system into the internet.Key TakeawaysRichard’s career journey from telecommunications to financeThe rapid adoption of new technologies and the implications for societySmart cities: What they are and how they’re evolvingThe role of AI, sensors, and data networks in modern urban environmentsChallenges around data privacy, identity and trust in the digital ageThe potential of self-sovereign identity and Web3 technologiesThe intersection of digital sustainable finance and smart infrastructureThe future of money and how the internet will integrate financial systemsA look ahead: What Richard hopes to see in his lifetime (and beyond!)Notable Quotes:"We are already living in smart cities; the infrastructure is here, we just don’t always see it.""We have an unbelievable nexus moment happening with the convergence of AI, financial technology, and trust-based systems.""A truly embedded money system into the internet will change everything—it will create new economic models and job opportunities.""We need to think differently about data ownership; our identities should belong to us, not corporations."Connect with Us:Follow The Outside Context on SpotifyConnect with Richard Baker on LinkedInFollow Elise Soucie Watts and Jannah Patchay for more insights into the future of technology and financeJoin the Conversation: What excites or concerns you most about the future of smart cities and digital identity? Drop us a message on social media or leave a comment!Thanks for listening to Outside Context! If you enjoyed the episode, please rate, review, and subscribe!Message us and tell us what you think of this episode, or share your ideas for future episodes - we’d love to hear from you! Sponsored by Unblocked & Markets Evolution© 2024 The Outside Context. All rights reserved.
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