https://simplecast.com TechnologIST Talks Technology revolutionizes the way we live, unlocking greater knowledge, enhancing our capabilities, and creating new opportunities. But insecure, negligent, or exploitative technological advancements are threatening global security and stability as we speak. Welcome to TechnologIST Talks, a new podcast brought to you by the Institute for Security and Technology. We're bringing conversations on these emerging security challenges—and the ideas to tackle them—to the forefront. In this season of TechnologIST Talks, we're focusing on the race to accelerate innovation in technologies of national strategic importance. We’re in an era where government is no longer the sole force driving technology-enabled economic growth; private industry plays an essential role in shaping technology for the future. To secure tomorrow, the public and private sectors must come together to advance technologies that will benefit society and contribute to global stability. We will sit down with entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, and policymakers to learn about the real-world challenges they face in accelerating innovation across biotech, quantum, energy, and other critical technology areas. We’ll get their takes on the policies that help or hinder their progress, and discuss where they see things heading. 2024 Institute for Security and Technology en Thu, 29 May 2025 16:00:00 +0000 Thu, 29 May 2025 16:00:15 +0000 https://technologist-talks.simplecast.com TechnologIST Talks https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/8856500f-90a4-4aea-b3be-8fccf067dc0f/5ef88e5b-b2a0-4e74-9226-3fd80233fec0/3000x3000/technologist-20talks.jpg?aid=rss_feed https://technologist-talks.simplecast.com episodic Technology revolutionizes the way we live, unlocking greater knowledge, enhancing our capabilities, and creating new opportunities. But insecure, negligent, or exploitative technological advancements are threatening global security and stability as we speak. Welcome to TechnologIST Talks, a new podcast brought to you by the Institute for Security and Technology. We're bringing conversations on these emerging security challenges—and the ideas to tackle them—to the forefront. In this season of TechnologIST Talks, we're focusing on the race to accelerate innovation in technologies of national strategic importance. We’re in an era where government is no longer the sole force driving technology-enabled economic growth; private industry plays an essential role in shaping technology for the future. To secure tomorrow, the public and private sectors must come together to advance technologies that will benefit society and contribute to global stability. We will sit down with entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, and policymakers to learn about the real-world challenges they face in accelerating innovation across biotech, quantum, energy, and other critical technology areas. We’ll get their takes on the policies that help or hinder their progress, and discuss where they see things heading. Institute for Security and Technology false https://feeds.simplecast.com/gRDs2f4C Institute for Security and Technology sophia@securityandtechnology.org 8d4e56e9-4c3d-4d91-badf-8a14b7c9eb59 The Coming Age of Agentic AI In this episode of TechnologIST Talks, IST CEO Philip Reiner is joined by Dr. Margaret Mitchell, a computer scientist and researcher focused on machine learning and ethics informed AI development. She currently serves as Chief Ethics Scientist at Hugging Face, where she studies ML data processing, responsible AI development, and AI ethics. In her previous role at Google, she founded and co-led Google's Ethical AI group, which seeks to advance foundational AI ethics research and operationalize AI ethics internally at Google. With Hugging Face, Margaret helps to contribute to IST’s AI Risk Reduction Initiative Working Group work developing technical- and policy-oriented risk mitigation strategies associated with AI foundation models. 

Philip and Margaret sat down to discuss agentic, autonomous, and transparent models – and the pathway to truly secure AI. 

“I think that we can do a lot of really great work with AI by having rigorous data curation that corresponds to specific kinds of use cases, and building models based on that,” Margaret said. 

What’s the current state of AI agents in the marketplace? How autonomous are so-called autonomous models? And once you’ve identified a model’s vulnerabilities, how do you go about protecting against unauthorized actions? Join us for this and more on this episode of TechnologIST Talks. 

Learn more about IST: https://securityandtechnology.org/

]]> Thu, 29 May 2025 16:00:00 +0000 sophia@securityandtechnology.org (Dr. Margaret Mitchell, Philip Reiner) https://technologist-talks.simplecast.com/episodes/the-coming-age-of-agentic-ai-Xahk3fVR In this episode of TechnologIST Talks, IST CEO Philip Reiner is joined by Dr. Margaret Mitchell, a computer scientist and researcher focused on machine learning and ethics informed AI development. She currently serves as Chief Ethics Scientist at Hugging Face, where she studies ML data processing, responsible AI development, and AI ethics. In her previous role at Google, she founded and co-led Google's Ethical AI group, which seeks to advance foundational AI ethics research and operationalize AI ethics internally at Google. With Hugging Face, Margaret helps to contribute to IST’s AI Risk Reduction Initiative Working Group work developing technical- and policy-oriented risk mitigation strategies associated with AI foundation models. 

Philip and Margaret sat down to discuss agentic, autonomous, and transparent models – and the pathway to truly secure AI. 

“I think that we can do a lot of really great work with AI by having rigorous data curation that corresponds to specific kinds of use cases, and building models based on that,” Margaret said. 

What’s the current state of AI agents in the marketplace? How autonomous are so-called autonomous models? And once you’ve identified a model’s vulnerabilities, how do you go about protecting against unauthorized actions? Join us for this and more on this episode of TechnologIST Talks. 

Learn more about IST: https://securityandtechnology.org/

]]> The Coming Age of Agentic AI Dr. Margaret Mitchell, Philip Reiner 00:39:55 “The goal of AGI is to create solutions that humans haven't thought of. But to make an agent safe, we need to be able to anticipate all solutions that the system would think of.” - Dr. Margaret Mitchell IST CEO Philip Reiner sits down with Dr. Margaret Mitchell, Chief Ethics Scientist at Hugging Face. Margaret walks us through her research on machine learning and ethics informed AI development, and what she thinks is next for the industry. “The goal of AGI is to create solutions that humans haven't thought of. But to make an agent safe, we need to be able to anticipate all solutions that the system would think of.” - Dr. Margaret Mitchell IST CEO Philip Reiner sits down with Dr. Margaret Mitchell, Chief Ethics Scientist at Hugging Face. Margaret walks us through her research on machine learning and ethics informed AI development, and what she thinks is next for the industry. technologist talks, ai, machine learning, google, ethics informed ai, ai risk reduction, ist false full 9 1 ca8b5564-7176-44cf-bdbd-ebd0e623cb2b Looking Back and Looking Ahead: Deep Dive on the New Cybersecurity Executive Order On January 16, 2025, the Biden administration released the capstone Executive Order “Strengthening and Promoting Innovation in the Nation’s Cybersecurity.” In this bonus episode of TechnologIST Talks, Chief Strategy Officer Megan Stifel and Chief Trust Officer Steve Kelly are joined by Carole House, Special Advisor for Cybersecurity and Critical Infrastructure Policy at the National Security Council and a member of the office responsible for leading the drafting of the EO. Megan, Steve, and Carole walk through the main components of the order, talking about its implications for federal systems security, quantum, efforts to tackle cybercrime and fraud, and more. 

“Software is such a prevalent root cause of so many of the supply chain attacks that we’re seeing and that have been occurring. It’s the next step of evolution. We are requiring software vendors to provide verifiable attestations of those software practices,” Carole said.

What prompted the drafting and release of this Executive Order? How does the EO address ransomware? And what should government–and industry–take away from its provisions? Join us for this and more on this episode of TechnologIST Talks. 

Learn more about IST: 

https://securityandtechnology.org/

]]> Thu, 16 Jan 2025 17:00:00 +0000 sophia@securityandtechnology.org (Carole House, Steve Kelly, Megan Stifel) https://technologist-talks.simplecast.com/episodes/looking-back-and-looking-ahead-deep-dive-on-the-new-cybersecurity-executive-order-uw8Tm5Tg On January 16, 2025, the Biden administration released the capstone Executive Order “Strengthening and Promoting Innovation in the Nation’s Cybersecurity.” In this bonus episode of TechnologIST Talks, Chief Strategy Officer Megan Stifel and Chief Trust Officer Steve Kelly are joined by Carole House, Special Advisor for Cybersecurity and Critical Infrastructure Policy at the National Security Council and a member of the office responsible for leading the drafting of the EO. Megan, Steve, and Carole walk through the main components of the order, talking about its implications for federal systems security, quantum, efforts to tackle cybercrime and fraud, and more. 

“Software is such a prevalent root cause of so many of the supply chain attacks that we’re seeing and that have been occurring. It’s the next step of evolution. We are requiring software vendors to provide verifiable attestations of those software practices,” Carole said.

What prompted the drafting and release of this Executive Order? How does the EO address ransomware? And what should government–and industry–take away from its provisions? Join us for this and more on this episode of TechnologIST Talks. 

Learn more about IST: 

https://securityandtechnology.org/

]]> Looking Back and Looking Ahead: Deep Dive on the New Cybersecurity Executive Order Carole House, Steve Kelly, Megan Stifel 00:45:49 “This is the capstone project that really takes and leverages all of the lessons learned that have come out of the administration’s long, ongoing efforts.” - Carole House In this bonus episode of TechnologIST Talks, Chief Security Officer Megan Stifel and Chief Trust Officer Steve Kelly are joined by Carole House, Special Advisor for Cybersecurity and Critical Infrastructure Policy at the National Security Council. As a member of the lead office responsible for drafting the Biden administration’s final Executive Order on cybersecurity, Carole breaks down the EO’s goals, how we got here, and her hopes for the next administration. “This is the capstone project that really takes and leverages all of the lessons learned that have come out of the administration’s long, ongoing efforts.” - Carole House In this bonus episode of TechnologIST Talks, Chief Security Officer Megan Stifel and Chief Trust Officer Steve Kelly are joined by Carole House, Special Advisor for Cybersecurity and Critical Infrastructure Policy at the National Security Council. As a member of the lead office responsible for drafting the Biden administration’s final Executive Order on cybersecurity, Carole breaks down the EO’s goals, how we got here, and her hopes for the next administration. false full 8 1 be5c3c42-2dff-4902-aed1-ea11e02d5485 The Offense-Defense Balance In this special episode of TechnologIST Talks centered on the implications of AI in cybersecurity, IST CEO Philip Reiner is joined by Heather Adkins, a 22-year Google veteran and founding member of the Google Security Team. As VP of Security Engineering, she built the global team responsible for maintaining the safety and security of Google’s networks, systems, and applications. Heather is also a member of IST Ransomware Task Force Steering Committee, where she provides support, guidance, and oversight on ongoing RTF lines of effort. Philip and Heather sat down to discuss the implications of AI on the offense-defense balance.

“There are no rules, and no amount of laws and regulations that we put in place are ever going to impact how they use it,” Heather said.

How did Heather get started at Google? What did the threat landscape look like in 2002, and how has it changed over the course of her tenure? Join us for this and more on this episode of TechnologIST Talks. 

Learn more about IST: https://securityandtechnology.org/

 

00:00 Introduction to Technologist Talks

01:10 Meet Heather Adkins: Google Security Veteran

01:55 AI and Cybersecurity: Offense vs Defense

04:06 The Evolution of Cyber Threats

12:10 AI's Role in Cybersecurity Operations

16:38 Challenges and Future of AI in Cybersecurity

38:06 Public-Private Collaboration in AI

40:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


 

]]> Thu, 19 Dec 2024 20:00:00 +0000 sophia@securityandtechnology.org (Heather Adkins, Philip Reiner) https://technologist-talks.simplecast.com/episodes/the-cyber-offense-defense-balance-5ch5LVhG In this special episode of TechnologIST Talks centered on the implications of AI in cybersecurity, IST CEO Philip Reiner is joined by Heather Adkins, a 22-year Google veteran and founding member of the Google Security Team. As VP of Security Engineering, she built the global team responsible for maintaining the safety and security of Google’s networks, systems, and applications. Heather is also a member of IST Ransomware Task Force Steering Committee, where she provides support, guidance, and oversight on ongoing RTF lines of effort. Philip and Heather sat down to discuss the implications of AI on the offense-defense balance.

“There are no rules, and no amount of laws and regulations that we put in place are ever going to impact how they use it,” Heather said.

How did Heather get started at Google? What did the threat landscape look like in 2002, and how has it changed over the course of her tenure? Join us for this and more on this episode of TechnologIST Talks. 

Learn more about IST: https://securityandtechnology.org/

 

00:00 Introduction to Technologist Talks

01:10 Meet Heather Adkins: Google Security Veteran

01:55 AI and Cybersecurity: Offense vs Defense

04:06 The Evolution of Cyber Threats

12:10 AI's Role in Cybersecurity Operations

16:38 Challenges and Future of AI in Cybersecurity

38:06 Public-Private Collaboration in AI

40:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


 

]]> The Offense-Defense Balance Heather Adkins, Philip Reiner 00:40:44 “The way that we are using AI today and conceive of using AI today is very different than the way it's actually going to get deployed. And this is true of every technology we've ever harnessed, whether it was fire or electricity.” - Heather Adkins In a special episode of TechnologIST Talks, CEO Philip Reiner hosts Heather Adkins, a 22-year Google veteran and founding member of the Google Security Team. She shares her take on the current threat landscape, where the U.S. government and the private sector might align, and more. “The way that we are using AI today and conceive of using AI today is very different than the way it's actually going to get deployed. And this is true of every technology we've ever harnessed, whether it was fire or electricity.” - Heather Adkins In a special episode of TechnologIST Talks, CEO Philip Reiner hosts Heather Adkins, a 22-year Google veteran and founding member of the Google Security Team. She shares her take on the current threat landscape, where the U.S. government and the private sector might align, and more. cyber, ai, cybersecurity, software vulnerabilities, google, deepfakes false full 7 1 1a02bd9a-df36-4294-80b9-2941b90c8a7f A Transatlantic Perspective on Quantum Tech In this episode, IST Chief Strategy Officer Megan Stifel sits down with Markus Pflitsch, founder and CEO of Terra Quantum, a leading quantum technology company that offers Quantum as a Service in the areas of quantum algorithms, quantum computing, and quantum security. The two unpack the disruptive nature of quantum, contrast approaches to R&D and commercialization in the U.S. and Europe, and discuss what’s next for the industry. 

“I think it would be fantastic for the quantum tech industry to have that ‘ChatGPT moment,’” Markus said. 

Why is NIST’s standardization of post-quantum cryptography such a big deal? How do Chinese technological approaches to quantum differ from that of Europe and the West? And what does Markus think about the UN’s declaration of 2025 as the Year of Quantum? Join us for this and more on this episode of TechnologIST Talks. 

Learn more about IST: https://securityandtechnology.org/

00:00 Introduction to Technologist Talks

01:06 Meet Markus Pflitsch: CEO of Terra Quantum

01:14 The Journey from Quantum Physics to Finance

01:32 Commercializing Quantum Technology

04:37 Quantum Tech's Impact on Industries

08:26 Challenges and Opportunities in Quantum Tech

11:42 Global Perspectives on Quantum Development

18:33 Quantum Security: PQC vs. QKD

21:46 The Role of Government and Private Sector in Quantum R&D

24:16 Future of Quantum Tech and Global Collaboration

32:58 Closing Thoughts and Future Prospects

]]> Wed, 18 Dec 2024 18:00:00 +0000 sophia@securityandtechnology.org (Markus Pflitsch, Megan Stifel) https://technologist-talks.simplecast.com/episodes/a-transatlantic-perspective-on-quantum-tech-xgpN9ujK In this episode, IST Chief Strategy Officer Megan Stifel sits down with Markus Pflitsch, founder and CEO of Terra Quantum, a leading quantum technology company that offers Quantum as a Service in the areas of quantum algorithms, quantum computing, and quantum security. The two unpack the disruptive nature of quantum, contrast approaches to R&D and commercialization in the U.S. and Europe, and discuss what’s next for the industry. 

“I think it would be fantastic for the quantum tech industry to have that ‘ChatGPT moment,’” Markus said. 

Why is NIST’s standardization of post-quantum cryptography such a big deal? How do Chinese technological approaches to quantum differ from that of Europe and the West? And what does Markus think about the UN’s declaration of 2025 as the Year of Quantum? Join us for this and more on this episode of TechnologIST Talks. 

Learn more about IST: https://securityandtechnology.org/

00:00 Introduction to Technologist Talks

01:06 Meet Markus Pflitsch: CEO of Terra Quantum

01:14 The Journey from Quantum Physics to Finance

01:32 Commercializing Quantum Technology

04:37 Quantum Tech's Impact on Industries

08:26 Challenges and Opportunities in Quantum Tech

11:42 Global Perspectives on Quantum Development

18:33 Quantum Security: PQC vs. QKD

21:46 The Role of Government and Private Sector in Quantum R&D

24:16 Future of Quantum Tech and Global Collaboration

32:58 Closing Thoughts and Future Prospects

]]> A Transatlantic Perspective on Quantum Tech Markus Pflitsch, Megan Stifel 00:34:37 “Five years ago, I wanted to come back to the passion of my life, quantum physics, and use my corporate finance background to actually commercialize it. Because now it has come to a phase where you can actually commercialize quantum tech, quantum computing, we founded Terra Quantum.” - Markus Pflitsch Host Megan Stifel welcomes Markus Pflitsch. Formerly in the financial services sector, Markus transitioned back into the quantum space in 2019. He details his path to becoming CEO and founder of a leading quantum company, his unique take on the quantum ecosystem, and the differences in the funding environments in Europe and the United States. “Five years ago, I wanted to come back to the passion of my life, quantum physics, and use my corporate finance background to actually commercialize it. Because now it has come to a phase where you can actually commercialize quantum tech, quantum computing, we founded Terra Quantum.” - Markus Pflitsch Host Megan Stifel welcomes Markus Pflitsch. Formerly in the financial services sector, Markus transitioned back into the quantum space in 2019. He details his path to becoming CEO and founder of a leading quantum company, his unique take on the quantum ecosystem, and the differences in the funding environments in Europe and the United States. tech investment, venture capital, security, artificial intelligence, terra quantum, quantum, materials science false full 6 1 9600e2c3-3a34-416e-9901-285e1357fc6d The Future is Quantum IST Chief Strategy Officer Megan Stifel welcomes Stefan Leichenauer, Vice President of Engineering and lead scientist at SandboxAQ. SandboxAQ combines quantum computing technology with advanced AI to make technological advances in sectors like medicine, navigation, and the auto and aerospace industries. Stefan breaks down the current state of play in the quantum ecosystem, how the Chinese government is kick-starting development, and what he sees as the possible applications of these technologies. 

“One example is using advanced quantum sensors that can be very sensitive to the magnetic fields,” Stefan said. “Every commercial airplane should have this kind of thing.”

How did SandboxAQ begin? What are the near- and long-term challenges to unlocking the full potential of quantum computing? And what are Stefan’s hopes for the future of quantum science? Join us for this and more on this episode of TechnologIST Talks. 

Learn more about IST: https://securityandtechnology.org/

00:00 Introduction to Technologist Talks

01:11 Meet Stefan Leichenauer: From Academia to Industry

01:49 Quantum Computing: Challenges and Opportunities

06:24 Quantum Sensing and Navigation

13:31 AI and Quantum Computing: A Symbiotic Relationship

17:57 SandboxAQ: Goals and Focus Areas

22:59 Quantum Technology Investment Landscape

27:09 China's Quantum Ambitions

35:02 US Government's Role in Quantum Technology

40:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

]]> Thu, 12 Dec 2024 22:00:00 +0000 sophia@securityandtechnology.org (Megan Stifel, Stefan Leichenauer) https://technologist-talks.simplecast.com/episodes/the-future-is-quantum-pfOsnvha IST Chief Strategy Officer Megan Stifel welcomes Stefan Leichenauer, Vice President of Engineering and lead scientist at SandboxAQ. SandboxAQ combines quantum computing technology with advanced AI to make technological advances in sectors like medicine, navigation, and the auto and aerospace industries. Stefan breaks down the current state of play in the quantum ecosystem, how the Chinese government is kick-starting development, and what he sees as the possible applications of these technologies. 

“One example is using advanced quantum sensors that can be very sensitive to the magnetic fields,” Stefan said. “Every commercial airplane should have this kind of thing.”

How did SandboxAQ begin? What are the near- and long-term challenges to unlocking the full potential of quantum computing? And what are Stefan’s hopes for the future of quantum science? Join us for this and more on this episode of TechnologIST Talks. 

Learn more about IST: https://securityandtechnology.org/

00:00 Introduction to Technologist Talks

01:11 Meet Stefan Leichenauer: From Academia to Industry

01:49 Quantum Computing: Challenges and Opportunities

06:24 Quantum Sensing and Navigation

13:31 AI and Quantum Computing: A Symbiotic Relationship

17:57 SandboxAQ: Goals and Focus Areas

22:59 Quantum Technology Investment Landscape

27:09 China's Quantum Ambitions

35:02 US Government's Role in Quantum Technology

40:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

]]> The Future is Quantum Megan Stifel, Stefan Leichenauer 00:40:47 “Really, if we start at sort of the base level, like fundamental scientific challenges, those were solved a long time ago. There's no fundamental scientific issue that gets in our way.” - Stefan Leichenauer IST CSO Megan Stifel interviews Stefan Leichenauer, a member of the inaugural team at SandboxAQ with experience in both AI and quantum science. Stefan explains his journey from academia to private industry, SandboxAQ’s origins within Alphabet, and where quantum science is going next. “Really, if we start at sort of the base level, like fundamental scientific challenges, those were solved a long time ago. There's no fundamental scientific issue that gets in our way.” - Stefan Leichenauer IST CSO Megan Stifel interviews Stefan Leichenauer, a member of the inaugural team at SandboxAQ with experience in both AI and quantum science. Stefan explains his journey from academia to private industry, SandboxAQ’s origins within Alphabet, and where quantum science is going next. ai, sandboxaq, quantum, china, tech competition false full 5 1 d451935b-cfa7-4370-aba6-57e5afcbfb77 The Cleantech Boom In the fourth episode of TechnologIST Talks, host Steve Kelly sits down with Banyu Carbon co-founder and CEO Dr. Alex Gagnon to explore the emerging field of carbon dioxide removal and its role in decarbonizing the economy. Banyu Carbon uses a process that relies on sunlight and seawater to remove carbon dioxide from water. 

An associate professor at the University of Washington School of Oceanography, Alex takes a deep dive into innovative solutions and the ecosystem required to combat climate change. Drawing lessons from cleantech 1.0, he emphasizes planning for future global competition, highlighting the role of federal initiatives in fostering innovation, and supporting commercialization. 

How can the U.S. prevent repeating the mistakes of cleantech 1.0 in the carbon dioxide removal industry? What steps should universities take to support commercialization while maintaining their commitment to research? And what role should government and private industry play in sustaining demand for cleantech solutions? 

Join us for this and more on this episode of TechnologIST Talks. 

Learn more about IST: https://securityandtechnology.org/

00:00 Introduction to Technologist Talks

01:15 Meet Dr. Alex Gagnon of Banyu Carbon

01:26 Innovative Carbon Removal Techniques

01:45 Challenges and Opportunities in Clean Energy

02:33 The Importance of Retaining Tech Talent

03:58 The Evolution of Cleantech

05:29 Banyu Carbon's Mission and Vision

18:20 The Role of Government and Venture Capital

44:29 Future Outlook for U.S. Clean Energy

47:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

]]> Thu, 5 Dec 2024 17:00:00 +0000 sophia@securityandtechnology.org (Dr. Alex Gagnon, Steve Kelly) https://technologist-talks.simplecast.com/episodes/the-cleantech-boom-h0EYSU4v In the fourth episode of TechnologIST Talks, host Steve Kelly sits down with Banyu Carbon co-founder and CEO Dr. Alex Gagnon to explore the emerging field of carbon dioxide removal and its role in decarbonizing the economy. Banyu Carbon uses a process that relies on sunlight and seawater to remove carbon dioxide from water. 

An associate professor at the University of Washington School of Oceanography, Alex takes a deep dive into innovative solutions and the ecosystem required to combat climate change. Drawing lessons from cleantech 1.0, he emphasizes planning for future global competition, highlighting the role of federal initiatives in fostering innovation, and supporting commercialization. 

How can the U.S. prevent repeating the mistakes of cleantech 1.0 in the carbon dioxide removal industry? What steps should universities take to support commercialization while maintaining their commitment to research? And what role should government and private industry play in sustaining demand for cleantech solutions? 

Join us for this and more on this episode of TechnologIST Talks. 

Learn more about IST: https://securityandtechnology.org/

00:00 Introduction to Technologist Talks

01:15 Meet Dr. Alex Gagnon of Banyu Carbon

01:26 Innovative Carbon Removal Techniques

01:45 Challenges and Opportunities in Clean Energy

02:33 The Importance of Retaining Tech Talent

03:58 The Evolution of Cleantech

05:29 Banyu Carbon's Mission and Vision

18:20 The Role of Government and Venture Capital

44:29 Future Outlook for U.S. Clean Energy

47:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

]]> The Cleantech Boom Dr. Alex Gagnon, Steve Kelly 00:46:33 “The cheapest, most effective, lowest-energy way of doing carbon removal is not putting carbon dioxide in the atmosphere in the first place.” – Dr. Alex Gagnon IST Chief Trust Officer Steve Kelly speaks with Dr. Alex Gagnon, co-founder and CEO of Banyu Carbon and an associate professor at the University of Washington School of Oceanology. They discuss the transformative potential of direct ocean capture in carbon dioxide removal and explore the ecosystem of partnerships needed to scale cleantech solutions. “The cheapest, most effective, lowest-energy way of doing carbon removal is not putting carbon dioxide in the atmosphere in the first place.” – Dr. Alex Gagnon IST Chief Trust Officer Steve Kelly speaks with Dr. Alex Gagnon, co-founder and CEO of Banyu Carbon and an associate professor at the University of Washington School of Oceanology. They discuss the transformative potential of direct ocean capture in carbon dioxide removal and explore the ecosystem of partnerships needed to scale cleantech solutions. false full 4 1 5f7767c5-afd5-45a1-8010-db74d0b1f6a7 Not Just Science for the Sake of Science In this episode of TechnologIST Talks, host Steve Kelly welcomes Dr. Alain Harrus, an expert in helping scientists who are driving innovation in technologies like materials science, engineering, semiconductors, and energy to break through and become global leaders. Alain shares insights from his extensive career, which spans from microelectronics and materials science to his current role as Operating Partner at the Oil and Gas Climate Initiative (OGCI), where he focuses on emissions reduction and climate investment.

The two discuss how Alain got involved in the commercialization of science, tracing it back to his time at Bell Labs. Alain emphasizes the strengths of the United States as a premier environment for entrepreneurs, highlighting the comprehensive ecosystem that includes access to capital, legal and financial support, and a vibrant community. Reflecting on his career, he underscores the importance of turning scientific breakthroughs into practical applications. "Innovation and technology are incredibly valuable once you are able to commercialize it. Otherwise, it's science for the sake of science."

What does the innovation ecosystem look like in China right now? Is the United States talent pipeline sustainable? And what is the U.S. government doing to foster innovation in the energy sector? Join us for this and more on this episode of TechnologIST Talks. 

Learn more about IST: 

https://securityandtechnology.org/

 

00:00 Introduction to Technologist Talks

01:16 Meet Dr. Alain Harrus: From Bell Labs to Climate Initiatives

02:14 The American Innovation Ecosystem

02:51 Venture Capital: US vs China

03:46 Dr. Harrus's Journey: From Science to Investment

12:14 China's Innovation Landscape

20:58 Energy Transition and Climate Investment

30:27 The Role of Government in Fueling Innovation

35:26 Future Trends in US and Chinese Technology Competitiveness

40:57 Conclusion: Bullish on US Innovation

]]> Tue, 3 Dec 2024 17:00:00 +0000 sophia@securityandtechnology.org (Steve Kelly, Dr. Alain Harrus) https://technologist-talks.simplecast.com/episodes/not-just-science-for-the-sake-of-science-9OEeg9D0 In this episode of TechnologIST Talks, host Steve Kelly welcomes Dr. Alain Harrus, an expert in helping scientists who are driving innovation in technologies like materials science, engineering, semiconductors, and energy to break through and become global leaders. Alain shares insights from his extensive career, which spans from microelectronics and materials science to his current role as Operating Partner at the Oil and Gas Climate Initiative (OGCI), where he focuses on emissions reduction and climate investment.

The two discuss how Alain got involved in the commercialization of science, tracing it back to his time at Bell Labs. Alain emphasizes the strengths of the United States as a premier environment for entrepreneurs, highlighting the comprehensive ecosystem that includes access to capital, legal and financial support, and a vibrant community. Reflecting on his career, he underscores the importance of turning scientific breakthroughs into practical applications. "Innovation and technology are incredibly valuable once you are able to commercialize it. Otherwise, it's science for the sake of science."

What does the innovation ecosystem look like in China right now? Is the United States talent pipeline sustainable? And what is the U.S. government doing to foster innovation in the energy sector? Join us for this and more on this episode of TechnologIST Talks. 

Learn more about IST: 

https://securityandtechnology.org/

 

00:00 Introduction to Technologist Talks

01:16 Meet Dr. Alain Harrus: From Bell Labs to Climate Initiatives

02:14 The American Innovation Ecosystem

02:51 Venture Capital: US vs China

03:46 Dr. Harrus's Journey: From Science to Investment

12:14 China's Innovation Landscape

20:58 Energy Transition and Climate Investment

30:27 The Role of Government in Fueling Innovation

35:26 Future Trends in US and Chinese Technology Competitiveness

40:57 Conclusion: Bullish on US Innovation

]]> Not Just Science for the Sake of Science Steve Kelly, Dr. Alain Harrus 00:42:01 “There is something very special about Silicon Valley that has transpired to other places in the United States. It's the knowledge on how to build and nurture small companies. And it's not just a question of access to capital. It's the ecosystem, of course, the people who work at these companies, but also the legal support, the financial support, and then the community.” - Dr. Alain Harrus IST's Steve Kelly sits down with Dr. Alain Harris, a global expert in energy technology and innovation with over 30 years of experience in the field. Alain discusses the unique attributes of the U.S. innovation ecosystem that position our entrepreneurs for success, the role of Silicon Valley and other U.S. hubs, and challenges and opportunities in the Chinese entrepreneurial landscape. “There is something very special about Silicon Valley that has transpired to other places in the United States. It's the knowledge on how to build and nurture small companies. And it's not just a question of access to capital. It's the ecosystem, of course, the people who work at these companies, but also the legal support, the financial support, and then the community.” - Dr. Alain Harrus IST's Steve Kelly sits down with Dr. Alain Harris, a global expert in energy technology and innovation with over 30 years of experience in the field. Alain discusses the unique attributes of the U.S. innovation ecosystem that position our entrepreneurs for success, the role of Silicon Valley and other U.S. hubs, and challenges and opportunities in the Chinese entrepreneurial landscape. false full 3 1 a325b395-719e-48eb-a16a-5cb2edd459ae The Deep Tech Renaissance In the second episode of TechnologIST Talks, host and CEO of the Institute for Security and Technology Philip Reiner sits down with Dr. Manish Kothari, founding managing partner at First Spark Ventures and former president of SRI International. Manish shares his journey from a biotech startup founder to a leading deep tech investor, offering insights into the unique challenges and opportunities within the deep tech ecosystem.

Manish and Philip explore the history–and cyclical nature–of Silicon Valley, the unique funding environment for deep tech startups, and the key factors that Manish looks for in a company specializing in deep tech when thinking about investing. “One of the challenges of deep tech relative to tech is scaling these quickly is challenging, because it costs more money. You're still in the early development phase. We really want to make sure the underlying component technologies are mature.”

How would Manish assess the government interventions that have been made so far to accelerate American competitiveness? How can the United States maintain its competitive edge in the global tech landscape, especially in light of advancements made by countries like China? And how are machine learning and automation playing a central role in the deep tech renaissance? 

Join us for this and more on this episode of TechnologIST Talks. 

Learn more about IST: https://securityandtechnology.org/

00:00 Introduction to Technologist Talks 
01:37 Meet Manish: A Deep Tech Pioneer 
02:57 Understanding Deep Tech 
05:10 Manish's Journey in Deep Tech 
07:44 First Spark: Investing in Deep Tech 
09:12 Challenges and Opportunities in Deep Tech 
18:41 The Role of Government in Deep Tech 
24:55 China's Influence on Deep Tech 
30:09 Future of Deep Tech and Final Thoughts

 

 

 

 

]]> Thu, 14 Nov 2024 17:00:00 +0000 sophia@securityandtechnology.org (Dr. Manish Kothari, Philip Reiner) https://technologist-talks.simplecast.com/episodes/the-deep-tech-renaissance-kVokaIhv In the second episode of TechnologIST Talks, host and CEO of the Institute for Security and Technology Philip Reiner sits down with Dr. Manish Kothari, founding managing partner at First Spark Ventures and former president of SRI International. Manish shares his journey from a biotech startup founder to a leading deep tech investor, offering insights into the unique challenges and opportunities within the deep tech ecosystem.

Manish and Philip explore the history–and cyclical nature–of Silicon Valley, the unique funding environment for deep tech startups, and the key factors that Manish looks for in a company specializing in deep tech when thinking about investing. “One of the challenges of deep tech relative to tech is scaling these quickly is challenging, because it costs more money. You're still in the early development phase. We really want to make sure the underlying component technologies are mature.”

How would Manish assess the government interventions that have been made so far to accelerate American competitiveness? How can the United States maintain its competitive edge in the global tech landscape, especially in light of advancements made by countries like China? And how are machine learning and automation playing a central role in the deep tech renaissance? 

Join us for this and more on this episode of TechnologIST Talks. 

Learn more about IST: https://securityandtechnology.org/

00:00 Introduction to Technologist Talks 
01:37 Meet Manish: A Deep Tech Pioneer 
02:57 Understanding Deep Tech 
05:10 Manish's Journey in Deep Tech 
07:44 First Spark: Investing in Deep Tech 
09:12 Challenges and Opportunities in Deep Tech 
18:41 The Role of Government in Deep Tech 
24:55 China's Influence on Deep Tech 
30:09 Future of Deep Tech and Final Thoughts

 

 

 

 

]]> The Deep Tech Renaissance Dr. Manish Kothari, Philip Reiner 00:37:50 “We cannot expect to do things exactly the same way and catch up. We will not. What we do have right now is a renaissance in a couple of areas like machine learning, in robotics and automation, that are allowing us to maybe leapfrog past the conventional ways of doing things and go to a different level.” - Dr. Manish Kothari In this episode, IST CEO Philip Reiner sits down with founder and deep tech investor Manish Kothari to explore challenges and opportunities in the deep tech ecosystem and how AI and automation are revolutionizing biotech, quantum, and other critical technology areas. “We cannot expect to do things exactly the same way and catch up. We will not. What we do have right now is a renaissance in a couple of areas like machine learning, in robotics and automation, that are allowing us to maybe leapfrog past the conventional ways of doing things and go to a different level.” - Dr. Manish Kothari In this episode, IST CEO Philip Reiner sits down with founder and deep tech investor Manish Kothari to explore challenges and opportunities in the deep tech ecosystem and how AI and automation are revolutionizing biotech, quantum, and other critical technology areas. automation, ai, startup, deep tech, venture capital, biotech false full 2 1 6dabf2f3-6723-4b1b-9257-510f5d35d7b0 Why Venture Capital Is Indispensable for U.S. Industrial Strategy In October 2024, IST released Why Venture Capital is Indispensable for U.S. Industrial Strategy, written by IST senior fellows Michael Brown, Partner at Shield Capital and former Director of the Defense Innovation Unit, and Pavneet Singh, member of the EXIM Bank’s Council on China Competition and advisor to the Department of Defense. 

In the first episode of the TechnologIST Talks series “The Strategic Edge in Techno-Industrial Competition,” the authors join IST Chief Executive Officer Philip Reiner for a conversation on their plan for harnessing the power of venture capital. They paint a picture of the “superpower marathon,” in which the United States is racing China for technology leadership, and discuss what makes VC unique. “We're in a global competition with China, whose aim is to displace us as the technology and economic superpower. So unless we're happy with that outcome, we better be figuring out what we want to do that would counter those aims,” Michael Brown explained.

How should the U.S. government restructure its current industrial policy approach to attract private investment? What is the importance of team, tech, and TAM? And why should we be ‘waxing poetic’ about contracts? 

Join us for this and more on this episode of TechnologIST Talks. 

Read the report: https://securityandtechnology.org/virtual-library/reports/why-venture-capital-is-indispensable-for-u-s-industrial-strategy/

Learn more about IST: https://securityandtechnology.org/

00:00 Introduction to Technologist Talks
00:55 About the Podcast
01:39 Welcoming Guests: Michael Brown and Pavneet Singh
02:04 The U.S.-China Techno-Industrial Competition
03:06 Mike's Journey: From CEO to Venture Capitalist
08:55 Pav's Experience in U.S. Government and Research
17:11 The Role of Venture Capital in National Security
23:43 Government's Role in Technology and Innovation
36:03 Developing a Capital Framework for Deep Tech
42:09 Conclusion and Future Steps

]]> Tue, 12 Nov 2024 17:00:00 +0000 sophia@securityandtechnology.org (Michael Brown, Pavneet Singh, Philip Reiner) https://technologist-talks.simplecast.com/episodes/why-venture-capital-is-indispensable-for-us-industrial-strategy-hh9XanAE In October 2024, IST released Why Venture Capital is Indispensable for U.S. Industrial Strategy, written by IST senior fellows Michael Brown, Partner at Shield Capital and former Director of the Defense Innovation Unit, and Pavneet Singh, member of the EXIM Bank’s Council on China Competition and advisor to the Department of Defense. 

In the first episode of the TechnologIST Talks series “The Strategic Edge in Techno-Industrial Competition,” the authors join IST Chief Executive Officer Philip Reiner for a conversation on their plan for harnessing the power of venture capital. They paint a picture of the “superpower marathon,” in which the United States is racing China for technology leadership, and discuss what makes VC unique. “We're in a global competition with China, whose aim is to displace us as the technology and economic superpower. So unless we're happy with that outcome, we better be figuring out what we want to do that would counter those aims,” Michael Brown explained.

How should the U.S. government restructure its current industrial policy approach to attract private investment? What is the importance of team, tech, and TAM? And why should we be ‘waxing poetic’ about contracts? 

Join us for this and more on this episode of TechnologIST Talks. 

Read the report: https://securityandtechnology.org/virtual-library/reports/why-venture-capital-is-indispensable-for-u-s-industrial-strategy/

Learn more about IST: https://securityandtechnology.org/

00:00 Introduction to Technologist Talks
00:55 About the Podcast
01:39 Welcoming Guests: Michael Brown and Pavneet Singh
02:04 The U.S.-China Techno-Industrial Competition
03:06 Mike's Journey: From CEO to Venture Capitalist
08:55 Pav's Experience in U.S. Government and Research
17:11 The Role of Venture Capital in National Security
23:43 Government's Role in Technology and Innovation
36:03 Developing a Capital Framework for Deep Tech
42:09 Conclusion and Future Steps

]]> Why Venture Capital Is Indispensable for U.S. Industrial Strategy Michael Brown, Pavneet Singh, Philip Reiner 00:46:10 “In theory, we have these massive interventions that have really drilled down into a set of core technologies that will lead the fourth industrial revolution, the future of economic competitiveness and military capability... I would say in the weeds, however, what we've discovered is we've made good first steps, but connecting the dots between, okay, we've made this intervention, how does that tie trade policy to R&D to what is actually going to be consumed? Are we writing the contracts for many of these deep technology areas?” - Pavneet Singh In this first episode of TechnologIST Talks, IST CEO Philip Reiner sits down with Michael Brown and Pavneet Singh to discuss how venture capital could help build critical technologies essential for national security, economic prosperity and global leadership. “In theory, we have these massive interventions that have really drilled down into a set of core technologies that will lead the fourth industrial revolution, the future of economic competitiveness and military capability... I would say in the weeds, however, what we've discovered is we've made good first steps, but connecting the dots between, okay, we've made this intervention, how does that tie trade policy to R&D to what is actually going to be consumed? Are we writing the contracts for many of these deep technology areas?” - Pavneet Singh In this first episode of TechnologIST Talks, IST CEO Philip Reiner sits down with Michael Brown and Pavneet Singh to discuss how venture capital could help build critical technologies essential for national security, economic prosperity and global leadership. false full 1 1 275aff78-e360-4d03-a917-e82225001db0 Welcome to TechnologIST Talks In this season of TechnologIST Talks, we're focusing on the race to accelerate innovation in technologies of national strategic importance. We’re in an era where government is no longer the sole force driving technology-enabled economic growth; private industry plays an essential role in shaping technology for the future. To secure tomorrow, the public and private sectors must come together to advance technologies that will benefit society and contribute to global stability.

We will sit down with entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, and policymakers to learn about the real-world challenges they face in accelerating innovation across biotech, quantum, energy, and other critical technology areas. We’ll get their takes on the policies that help or hinder their progress, and discuss where they see things heading.

]]> Wed, 30 Oct 2024 13:15:55 +0000 sophia@securityandtechnology.org (Institute for Security and Technology) https://technologist-talks.simplecast.com/episodes/welcome-to-technologist-talks-Tfh2scge In this season of TechnologIST Talks, we're focusing on the race to accelerate innovation in technologies of national strategic importance. We’re in an era where government is no longer the sole force driving technology-enabled economic growth; private industry plays an essential role in shaping technology for the future. To secure tomorrow, the public and private sectors must come together to advance technologies that will benefit society and contribute to global stability.

We will sit down with entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, and policymakers to learn about the real-world challenges they face in accelerating innovation across biotech, quantum, energy, and other critical technology areas. We’ll get their takes on the policies that help or hinder their progress, and discuss where they see things heading.

]]> Welcome to TechnologIST Talks Institute for Security and Technology 00:02:17 Technology revolutionizes the way we live, unlocking greater knowledge, enhancing our capabilities, and creating new opportunities. But insecure, negligent, or exploitative technological advancements are threatening global security and stability as we speak. Welcome to TechnologIST Talks, a new podcast brought to you by the Institute for Security and Technology. We're bringing conversations on these emerging security challenges—and the ideas to tackle them—to the forefront. Technology revolutionizes the way we live, unlocking greater knowledge, enhancing our capabilities, and creating new opportunities. But insecure, negligent, or exploitative technological advancements are threatening global security and stability as we speak. Welcome to TechnologIST Talks, a new podcast brought to you by the Institute for Security and Technology. We're bringing conversations on these emerging security challenges—and the ideas to tackle them—to the forefront. false trailer 1