GeekWire

GeekWire

Delve into the heart of technology, business, and everything that orbits innovation with the GeekWire podcast. Hosted by GeekWire's own team of tech-savvy reporters and editors, this podcast offers an in-depth look at the latest trends, products, and personalities shaping the tech landscape. From exclusive interviews with industry leaders to thoughtful discussions on the future of technology and its impact on our lives, GeekWire podcast is a must-listen for industry insiders and technology enthusiasts alike. Each episode provides a unique blend of critical insights and expert analysis, making complex topics both accessible and engaging. Whether you're a startup entrepreneur, a software developer, or just a tech aficionado, GeekWire connects you to the stories and strategies that matter in today’s fast-evolving technological world. Tune in to get ahead on developments in AI, cybersecurity, mobile technologies, and more, and learn how these sectors are transforming our daily lives.

Episodes

  • Microsoft's misunderstood era: Ben Gilbert of 'Acquired' on the tech giant's most pivotal years

    In this episode of GeekWire, host Todd Bishop and guest Ben Gilbert, co-founder of the 'Acquired' podcast, delve into the lesser-known middle era of Microsoft. They discuss how this period is generally misunderstood despite its critical role in shaping the tech giant's future. The conversation highlights Microsoft's ventures into new technological arenas and its attempts to navigate the rapidly evolving tech landscape. They cover Microsoft’s strategic shifts and missteps, emphasizing how early initiatives in mobile and internet technologies, while not always successful, laid groundwork for future successes. The episode also addresses the impact of Microsoft's legal challenges and how these influenced corporate strategy and innovation.

  • Beyond the CrowdStrike outage: The larger forces at play, and a long-term view on cybersecurity

    In a riveting episode of GeekWire, host Todd Bishop and guest Eric Moore delve into the recent CrowdStrike outage that disrupted global IT systems. The conversation highlights the technical misstep involving a content update from CrowdStrike that led to widespread system failures, notably affecting Windows users worldwide. Moore, a seasoned cybersecurity expert, unpacks the complexities facing modern cybersecurity firms, such as rapid technological advancements and geopolitical tensions. The discussion also explores the necessary evolution of cybersecurity measures in response to these emerging challenges, emphasizing the role of AI in both creating and combating threats. The episode not only provides a detailed analysis of the incident but also considers the future of cybersecurity in a globally connected world.

  • OpenAI wants NYT's notes; AI meets email; Startup vets eye EV charging marketplace

    In this episode of GeekWire, hosts Todd Bishop and John Cook explore significant topics in technology, including a contentious lawsuit between The New York Times and OpenAI, which challenges the boundaries of copyright and data use in AI development. The discussion transitions to the practical applications of AI in managing emails via Google Gemini, enhancing user interaction with data. The episode also highlights a new venture, Juicer Energy, a startup aiming to revolutionize the EV charging market by integrating residential charging stations into a comprehensive network. These discussions are framed within the broader context of AI's evolving role in technology and its potential to reshape industries.

  • The 'golden age' of the smart home, with ecobee CEO Greg Fyke

    In this revealing episode of GeekWire, host Todd Bishop engages with Greg Fyke, CEO of ecobee, delving deep into the evolution and the burgeoning potential of smart home technologies. Fyke shares insights on ecobee's journey from pioneering smart thermostats to integrating comprehensive smart home systems. The discussion illuminates the company's strategic focus on seamless user experiences and sustainability, emphasizing innovations like smart doorbells that integrate with thermostats and enhanced security features. Fyke's commentary extends into the broader impacts of AI and machine learning on home automation, where devices anticipate user needs to optimize comfort and energy use. The episode also touches on ecobee’s adaptation and growth under the umbrella of Generac, highlighting new possibilities in energy management and resilience in the face of climate challenges.

  • ADHD and the tech industry: Understanding the 'operating systems for the brain'

    In this enlightening episode of GeekWire, host Todd Bishop and guest Brett Green, an executive coach specializing in ADHD, delve into the impact of ADHD within the tech sector. They discuss the unique strengths and challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals, particularly those with ADHD, in a professional environment. Brett emphasizes that ADHD should not be viewed negatively; instead, it offers a distinct set of skills that can be highly beneficial in tech innovation. The discussion also covers practical advice for both individuals and organizations on maximizing the potential of neurodivergent employees, highlighting the importance of understanding and accommodating different "operating systems for the brain."

  • AI, VC, and the next big opportunity in tech, with 'Startup Project' host Nataraj Sindam

    In this insightful episode of GeekWire, host Todd Bishop and guest Nataraj Sindam explore the burgeoning intersection of AI and venture capital. Sindam, a senior product manager at Microsoft and venture partner with Incisive VC, discusses the current landscape of AI investments, particularly in the realm of generative AI and foundational model development. The conversation highlights Seattle's unique position in the AI venture space, emphasizing early-stage AI-enabled SaaS companies. Additionally, Sindam provides a nuanced view of the challenges and prospects for startups competing with tech giants in developing foundational AI models, referencing new ventures by former OpenAI personnel and the strategic shifts necessary for startups to carve out a niche in this competitive sector.

  • Cybersecurity in the age of AI, with Steve Schmidt, Amazon's chief security officer

    In a detailed conversation on GeekWire, Steve Schmidt, Amazon’s Chief Security Officer, explores the intricate relationship between cybersecurity and emerging AI technologies. Schmidt emphasizes that cybersecurity is increasingly about understanding human motivations behind attacks, not just technical defenses. The episode delves into how AI is reshaping the approach to security, from automating mundane tasks to enhancing phishing defenses, stressing the importance of maintaining human oversight in security protocols. The discussion also touches on Amazon's internal use of AI, including AI's role in simplifying complex security data for non-technical stakeholders.

  • How this professor teaches AI and thinks about human creativity

    In this engaging episode of GeekWire, host Todd Bishop speaks with Leonard Boussioux, an assistant professor specializing in AI at the University of Washington. Boussioux discusses the integration of AI in creative processes, teaching methodologies, and its potential to address global challenges like healthcare and sustainability. Emphasizing AI's role as a tool rather than a replacement for human creativity, he shares insights from his academic course on Generative AI and its impact on students' problem-solving skills. The episode delves into ethical considerations, the relationship between AI and traditional skills, and the future of AI in enhancing human capabilities.

  • AI, the brain, and the crowd, with CMU prof Niki Kittur

    In this engaging episode of GeekWire, host Todd Bishop dives into a fascinating discussion with CMU Professor Niki Kittur about crowd-augmented cognition. Kittur shares insights from his research at the Human Computer Interaction Institute, focusing on harnessing the combined power of crowds and AI to enhance creative and decision-making processes. The conversation illuminates how AI can complement human intelligence rather than replace it, with practical applications ranging from conservation efforts to creative industries. The episode also touches on Kittur's development of Schema, a tool designed to manage and make sense of overwhelming browser-based information.

  • Microsoft Copilot+ PCs: Has the AI computer revolution finally arrived?

    In this GeekWire episode, host Todd Bishop and guest Stefan Weitz discuss the latest developments surrounding Microsoft's Copilot+ PCs. Weitz, a Microsoft veteran, delves into the enhancements these PCs bring, including increased power and efficiency, and the potential challenges and implications for users and the broader tech industry. The episode focuses on the "recall" feature, which allows extensive screenshot-based memory for users, enhancing productivity but raising privacy and security concerns. The discussion also covers Microsoft's history of innovation, drawing parallels between past projects and the current advancements in AI and hardware integration.

  • Inside the GeekWire Awards: What's next for AI, the economy, and startups

    In this special episode of the GeekWire podcast, Todd Bishop takes listeners inside the GeekWire Awards, an event recognizing the top innovators in Seattle and the Pacific Northwest. Discussions with finalists and winners reveal insights into AI's impact on various industries, the evolving economic landscape, and the strategies that startups are using to navigate these changes. Notable conversations include those with Garav Oberoi, CEO of Lexion, and Linda Leann, CEO of Common Room, who share their experiences and the significant roles AI and strategic planning have played in their success. The episode also covers broader economic trends, the role of AI in workplace efficiency, and the entrepreneurial spirit driving the region's technology sector.

  • The rise of 'Technocapitalism' and its impact on humanity, with economist Loretta Napoleoni

    In this thought-provoking episode of GeekWire, host Todd Bishop engages with economist Loretta Napoleoni to discuss the nuances of technocapitalism. Napoleoni, known for her books on economics and geopolitics, delves into how contemporary technological advances and capitalist dynamics are intertwining to shape societies globally. She highlights the increased pace of change, leading to widespread anxiety, and how technology, while a tool created by humans, has come to dominate every facet of life, often surpassing governmental control and contributing to deep societal inequalities. The conversation also touches on the potential and dangers of AI, the role of governments, and the significant influence of tech titans on global politics and economics.

  • Amazon vs. Trader Joe's; Bill Gates still a force at Microsoft; Inside the Binance founder's sentencing

    In a detailed exploration of corporate strategies and legal drama, this episode of GeekWire unpacks several high-profile stories. It starts with the FTC's case against Amazon, highlighting internal strategies, including their covert operations to emulate Trader Joe’s success. The episode then shifts to Bill Gates' enduring influence at Microsoft, particularly in shaping its AI strategy and partnership with OpenAI despite stepping back from day-to-day operations. The climax centers on the sentencing of Binance founder Changpeng Zhao, contextualizing the legal outcomes within the broader implications for the cryptocurrency world. Each segment is enriched with insights from the hosts and expert interviews, providing a comprehensive understanding of these complex topics.

  • The Everything War': Inside Amazon with author and Wall Street Journal reporter Dana Mattioli

    In this revealing episode of GeekWire, host Todd Bishop engages with Dana Mattioli, a Wall Street Journal reporter, to discuss her book about Amazon's expansive corporate strategies and secretive nature. The episode unpacks the details of Amazon's approach to competition, particularly its use of data and its influence on various markets. Mattioli shares insights from her extensive research, which included interviews with Amazon's senior leadership and board members, conducted without the company's knowledge. Key topics include Amazon's internal practices, such as data access and strategic decisions that allegedly leverage its dominant market position to outmaneuver competitors and influence other businesses.