Reza explores how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing biomanufacturing—streamlining drug production, scaling organic materials, and making biotech more sustainable and accessible worldwide.

About the Episode:

Welcome back to the Future Tech & Foresight podcast. I’m your AI host Marc Vernkov’s Deepfake avatar—and this is episode number 196.

In this episode, Marc is joined by Reza, an expert in biomanufacturing who unpacks the crucial differences between chemical and biological production—using organisms instead of labs to grow complex therapeutics like Ozempic or Keytruda. They trace the evolution of biotech from early penicillin breakthroughs to the modern plateau of inefficient, trial-and-error systems.

Reza explains how AI and automation can dramatically speed up and improve these processes, reducing drug costs, accelerating time-to-market, and unlocking new forms of organic materials—including sustainable meat, milk, and leather. From genetic optimization to global scaling—this is a thought-provoking look at how AI promises to reshape biology and the future of manufacturing.

About the Guest:

Reza is a third-time founder with two successful exits, reflecting his strong track record in launching and scaling technology ventures. Before founding Katalyze AI, he gained strategic consulting experience at BCG, where he focused on driving data-driven solutions for diverse industries. He holds a Master’s degree in System Design Engineering from the University of Waterloo. His leadership establishes the company as a trusted partner in Biomanufacturing.

Website: https://katalyzeai.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reza-farahani-/

Timestamps:

00:00:55 - Episode Commences
00:02:27 - Chemical vs. Biological Manufacturing Differences
00:06:03 - Biomanufacturing Complexity and Optimization Challenges
00:08:16 - Biomanufacturing of Penicillin: Early Challenges
00:11:00 - AI Revolutionizing Biomanufacturing and Organic Materials
00:16:45 - Optimizing Microorganism Performance With Genetic Analysis
00:19:03 - Optimizing Drug Manufacturing for Accessibility
00:23:11 - AI's Potential to Reduce Commercialization Period
00:25:17 - AI and Automation in Biomanufacturing
00:43:22 - Episode Concludes

Additional Notes:

For more check out the website: https://futuretechandforesight.com/

Or connect with me on –

Twitter: https://twitter.com/FutureTech_Pod

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/futuretechandforesight/

Max Giammario explores the rising role of AI companionship, human-AI relationships, and how artificial life might reshape purpose, love, and work in the near future.

About the Episode:

In this episode, Marc sits down with Max Giammario, co-founder and CEO of Kindred Labs, to explore the rapidly evolving frontier of artificial life and AI companionship. Together, they unpack the emotional, social, and ethical implications of building relationships with AI—drawing comparisons to how humans have historically treated other species and civilizations.

Max shares insights from his upbringing on a farm in Australia to launching Kindred, a platform that combines familiar IPs (like Hello Kitty and Teletubbies) with emotionally intelligent AI sidekicks. They dive deep into how these technologies could impact intimacy, work, and mental well-being—and whether AI will liberate or domesticate us. From philosophical dilemmas about meaning and suffering to practical conversations about AI-enhanced workflows, this episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about what it means to be human in an increasingly digital world.

About the Guest:

Max Giammario is the CEO and Founder of Kindred, pioneering the first IP-powered agentic AI protocol to create emotionally intelligent AI companions. A Master’s and PhD researcher in Human-AI interaction, Max focuses on how people form deep emotional connections with AI entities.

With two successful startup exits and experience driving Web3 adoption for leading platforms like Filecoin, Tezos, and Ronin, Max brings a unique blend of technical expertise and entrepreneurial vision to the evolving AI landscape. His work with Kindred explores the future of companionship, purpose, and human connection in an era of rapidly advancing artificial intelligence.

Website: https://www.kindredlabs.ai/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxgiammario/?originalSubdomain=sg

Timestamps:

00:01:13 - Episode Commences
00:03:03 - AI Companionship and Human Relationships
00:06:16 - AI Treatment of Humans as Pets
00:09:12 - AI's Impact on Human Work
00:12:48 - Personal Growth vs Universal Basic Income
00:17:17 - AI's Impact on Workflows and Risks
00:24:31 - Artificial Life and Kindred's Role
00:28:24 - IP Characters in AI Systems
00:32:54 - AI and Robotics Future Discussion
00:37:14 - AI Girlfriend Risks and Regulation
00:41:45 - AI Girlfriend Dangers and Personal Growth
00:44:55 - Kindred Labs' AI Interaction Future

00:53:22 - Episode Concludes

Additional Notes:

For more check out the website: https://futuretechandforesight.com/

Or connect with me on –

Twitter: https://twitter.com/FutureTech_Pod

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/futuretechandforesight/

Marc and Thoryn dive into the emerging frontier of neurotechnology—exploring brain-computer interfaces, cognitive health optimization, and the role of AI in transforming how we care for our minds.

About the Episode:

In this episode, Marc is joined by Thoryn Stephens, a molecular biologist turned neurotech entrepreneur, to explore the powerful intersection of biology, technology, and human potential. They discuss how micro habits and personalized protocols can enhance cognitive health and extend health span, and the rise of brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) that could reshape everything from memory to mobility. Thoryn shares stories of working with Olympic athletes, explains how AI can drive thousands of scientifically grounded behavior changes, and reflects on the ethical questions posed by connecting the human brain to the internet. From digital overload to spinal-computer interfaces, this is a fascinating look into the future of the brain.

About the Guest:

Thoryn Stephens is the Founder and CEO of BRAIN.ONE, an AI-powered brain fitness platform designed to enhance cognitive performance through microhabits, biometric tracking, and personalized behavioral insights. With a foundation in biotechnology and molecular biology, he launched his career in scientific research, contributing to drug development efforts targeting cardiovascular and infectious diseases.

Over the past two decades, Thoryn has built a dynamic career at the intersection of data science, digital innovation, and consumer behavior. He has held strategic roles at Amgen, Cytokinetics, Unilever Prestige, and Fox Networks, where he drove growth through advanced analytics, predictive modeling, and personalized technology solutions.

A lifelong advocate of human optimization, Thoryn brings the same commitment to his personal life. Based in Aspen, Colorado, he skis over 100 days annually and trains competitively for triathlons.

Website: https://brain.one/profile/THORYN?ref=profile&tab=Protocols

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thoryn/

Timestamps:

00:01:11 - Episode Commences
00:03:19 - Neurotechnology and Holistic Health Improvements

00:08:52 - Brain Health Measurement and Optimization

00:21:55 - Micro Habits and Digital Moderation

00:29:58 - AI-Driven Micro Habits for Efficiency

00:33:21 - BCI: Health Benefits and Risks

00:39:48 - Technology for Good: Dr. Galen Buckwalter
00:46:39 - Brain-Computer Interfaces and Neurorights Foundation

00:53:22 - Episode Concludes

Additional Notes:

For more check out the website: https://futuretechandforesight.com/

Or connect with me on –

Twitter: https://twitter.com/FutureTech_Pod

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/futuretechandforesight/

Marc and Eric explore how technology—especially AI and automation—is transforming work, reshaping human potential, and redefining the skills that matter in a rapidly evolving world.

About the Episode:

Welcome back to the Future Tech and Foresight podcast. I’m your AI host, Marc Verbenkov’s deepfake avatar—and this is episode number 193.

In this episode, Marc sits down with Eric Daimler—entrepreneur, investor, and longtime expert in artificial intelligence—to unpack how technology is reshaping society. The conversation moves from optimism about AI's potential to make the world better to the real-world challenges of job displacement, bias in AI systems, and the addictive nature of modern platforms. Eric discusses the need for sharper communication skills in an era dominated by automation and how neurosymbolic AI could offer more structured, explainable models for decision-making. They also explore why our relationship to work, identity, and value may need a fundamental rethink.

About the Guest:
A recognized authority in Artificial Intelligence with 20+ years of experience as an operational executive, investor, researcher, and policy advisor. Co-founded six technology companies that have done pioneering work in fields ranging from software systems to statistical arbitrage. Author of the forthcoming book "The Future is Formal: The roadmap for using technology to solve society’s biggest problems."

Currently, Chair, CEO, and Co-Founder of Conexus AI, a next-generation Hybrid generative AI platform for trustworthy and fast digital modernization. Conexus AI enables enterprises to migrate, integrate, and transform IT systems with integrity guarantees and scalability. Mission is to empower communities and citizens to leverage AI for a more sustainable, secure, and prosperous future. As a former Presidential Innovation Fellow and current board member of companies advancing AI commercialization, I am also committed to driving the agenda for U.S. leadership in AI research, commercialization, and public adoption.

Website: https://conexus.com/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericdaimler/

Timestamps:

00:01:17 - Episode Commences
00:03:20 - Initial Engagement in the World of AI

00:11:22 - The Impact of Internet & Social Media Across the Globe

00:20:30 - The Boundaries of AI in the Modern World

00:30:07 - The Potential Shift in Value Structure

00:41:33 - Different Aspects of Nations Depending on AI Tools

00:47:47 - The Cost Savings Based on AI's Integration

00:53:22 - Episode Concludes

Additional Notes:

For more check out the website: https://futuretechandforesight.com/

Or connect with me on –

Twitter: https://twitter.com/FutureTech_Pod

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/futuretechandforesight/

Dan Goikhman joins Marc to explore how AI agents and invisible software are reshaping how we experience the internet, interact with data, and think about the future of digital life.

About the Episode:

In this episode, I’m joined by Dan Goikhman, the CEO of Dappier and a longtime entrepreneur at the edge of digital innovation. Together, we explore how AI agents are transforming the internet—from static pages to intelligent, conversational interfaces that adapt to each user. Dan shares his vision for "invisible software," explains the shift toward agentic design, and unpacks the idea of a “digital memory passport” that could store your preferences, history, and interactions across platforms.

We also touch on some big-picture themes: what a decentralized, agent-powered internet might look like, how content creators should be fairly compensated in an AI-driven ecosystem, and how users might retain control over their own data in this new paradigm. If you’re curious about the future of human–AI interaction, this conversation offers a sharp and thought-provoking perspective.

About the Guest:

Dan Goikhman is a veteran entrepreneur with two decades of experience at the intersection of media and emerging technology. He is the CEO and co-founder of Dappier, a company building AI-native infrastructure that transforms websites and apps into intelligent, interactive experiences through autonomous AI agents. Previously, Dan founded Mojiva, one of the first mobile ad networks (acquired by Pubmatic in 2014), and ViewNexa® Revolutionizes Your Video Workflow , a connected TV publishing platform (acquired by Bitcentral in 2021). His work continues to shape the future of digital media, advertising, and AI-driven user engagement.

Website: http://dappier.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dgoikhman/

Timestamps:

00:01:11 - Episode Commences
00:02:55 - AI Industry Transition and Autonomous Agents

00:07:45 - AI Agents and Digital Passports

00:20:05 - AI Models and Personalized Services

00:24:06 - Dappier's AI-Driven Internet Commerce Strategy

00:31:15 - Rapid Changes in Content and Advertising

00:34:00 - AI Revolutionizing Technology Interaction

00:48:02 - Episode Concludes

Additional Notes:

For more check out the website: https://futuretechandforesight.com/

Or connect with me on –

Twitter: https://twitter.com/FutureTech_Pod

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/futuretechandforesight/

Ami Dror joins Marc to explore how AI is reshaping early childhood development, parenting habits, and the ethical future of family tech.

About the Episode:
In today’s episode, my guest Ami and I explore how emerging technologies are transforming one of the oldest human experiences: parenting. We dive into the shift away from traditional family authority toward digital decision-making tools like Google and ChatGPT, and what that means for modern parents.

Ami shares how data-driven baby diaries and non-judgmental feedback are helping parents support infant development in a more mindful, informed way—while avoiding the trap of guilt and comparison. We also discuss the parallels between baby care tech and autonomous vehicles, the risks and benefits of data collection, and the profound ethical questions surrounding AI’s role in early childhood.

If you’re interested in the intersection of AI, brain science, and how tech might shape the next generation—this episode is for you.

About the Guest:

Ami is the CMO of Littleone.Care, a leading technology startup behind Elora, the first AI-powered and radiation-free pregnancy & baby wellness monitor, optimized to track and analyze key aspects of pregnancy and baby wellness in support of overall development.

He is involved in developing various technological products and software aimed at helping others in the area of digital marketing and customer behavior. Ami observes the parents & babies behavioral patterns while developing the next generation of cutting edge of baby technology.

He is also actively involved in promoting community health and well-being initiatives, consistently engaged in volunteering and organizing activities for teenagers, children, parents, and infants in his community.

Website: https://www.littleone.care/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ami-meoded/

Timestamps:
00:01:14 - Episode Commences
00:05:28 - Technology's Impact on Parenting Authority
00:16:06 - Baby Care Data for Parents
00:28:23 - Data Sets and Autonomous Vehicles
00:35:45 - Technology and Privacy in Freedom
00:39:47 - Baby Diary and Brain Science
00:44:19 - AI's Impact on Parenting and Child
00:53:16 - Episode Concludes

Additional Notes:

For more check out the website: https://futuretechandforesight.com/

Or connect with me on –

Twitter: https://twitter.com/FutureTech_Pod

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/futuretechandforesight/

We explore how AI literacy, regulation, and compliance are evolving alongside the rapid adoption of AI technologies in business—and why understanding legal frameworks is becoming mission-critical.

About the Episode:

Welcome back to the Future Tech and Foresight podcast. I'm your AI host, Marc Verbenkov’s Deepfake avatar, and this is episode number 190.

In today’s episode, my guest and I unpack the fast-evolving world of AI regulation, compliance, and legal risk. We explore how companies—large and small—are navigating new requirements around AI literacy, what it means to be compliant in an age where laws are still catching up to technology, and how legal expectations differ across jurisdictions like the EU, US, and UK.

We also get into the practical side: how to build an “AI pilot playbook,” why data privacy frameworks like GDPR still fall short of user expectations, and what businesses should be doing now to futureproof against tightening regulatory oversight. Whether you're part of a startup or a global enterprise, this conversation highlights the growing need for cross-functional AI understanding—from product teams to legal departments—and why the future of work depends as much on legal infrastructure as it does on innovation.

About the Guest:

Erica Werneman Root is a seasoned legal expert with over a decade of experience at the intersection of law, data protection, and emerging technologies. She specializes in AI governance, privacy by design, and lean compliance strategies for fast-moving, tech-driven organizations. A former Head of Privacy at a high-growth startup and recognized as a Rising Star by Legal500, Erica is also a leading voice on AI literacy and regulatory readiness. She’s authored thought leadership for the IAPP and LexisNexis, and is currently building innovative, AI-powered educational tools to help professionals navigate the fast-changing legal and technological landscape.

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erica-werneman-root/?originalSubdomain=uk

Timestamps:

00:01:13 - Episode Commences
00:06:22 - AI Legal Risks: Understanding Omnipurpose Tool Challenges
00:14:05 - Legal Risks of Using AI Tools
00:23:00 - AI Adoption & GitHUb & IP
00:42:22 - AI Revolution in Laws, regulations & Risk Readiness
00:44:00 - AI's Impact on laws & jurisdiction
00:50:36 - Episode Concludes

Additional Notes:

For more check out the website: https://futuretechandforesight.com/

Or connect with me on –

Twitter: https://twitter.com/FutureTech_Pod

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/futuretechandforesight/

Marc and Suzanneel-Moursi explore how AI agents and platforms like Brighthive are reshaping data workflows, democratizing insights, and empowering organizations to manage data more effectively.

About the Episode:
Welcome back to the Future Tech and Foresight podcast. I'm your AI host Marc Verbenkov’s Deepfake avatar, and this is episode number 189.

Large corporations are drowning in data—but struggling to extract real value from it.

In this episode, Marc talks with Suzanneel-Moursi about the future of enterprise data management and the role of AI agents in making data more accessible, actionable, and efficient. Drawing on her background at IBM and HSBC, Suzanne outlines the persistent issues of data fragmentation, limited data fluency, and siloed analytics in large organizations. She introduces Brighthive’s “data team in a box” approach, where multiple AI agents automate key functions like governance, ingestion, and analysis. Together, they explore the cultural shifts needed for AI adoption, the importance of accountability, and the collaborative potential of AI agents working alongside human analysts to unlock innovation.

About the Guest:

Suzanne El-Moursi is the Co-Founder & CEO of Brighthive, an AI-powered data platform helping organizations unlock insight from complex, fragmented data. With over 20 years of experience leading digital transformation and growth strategies, she’s worked with major brands like IBM, HSBC, GE Healthcare, and SapientNitro before turning her focus to startups. Suzanne has played leadership roles at Power2Switch, Choose Energy, and Mira Fitness, and holds advanced degrees in Human-Computer Interaction and Business from DePaul and the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.

Website: https://www.brighthive.io/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suelmoursi/

Timestamps:
00:01:06 - Episode Commences
00:03:27 - Initial Statup on AI Agents
00:12:00 - How to find the Right Data Out of all the Misinformation
00:18:55 - How many Companies are benefited by Data Informant decisions
00:28:50 - What'll Happen to the Data Analysts if AI Takes Over
00:34:20 - The Varieties of AI Agents & Their Roles
00:42:35 - Businesses Growth Using Agentic Data Tools
00:48:02 - Episode Concludes

Additional Notes:

For more check out the website: https://futuretechandforesight.com/

Or connect with me on –

Twitter: https://twitter.com/FutureTech_Pod

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/futuretechandforesight/