Welcome to Episode 54 of The HockeyStick Show

I’m Miko Pawlikowski, and this week we explored the evolving world of cybersecurity with Robert Siciliano.

Robert, CEO of Protect Now LLC and creator of the Strategic Human Firewall, joined us to unpack how organizations can adapt to increasingly sophisticated threats. The conversation moved beyond tools and tactics into something deeper: how people, not just systems, define the strength of modern security.

Understanding the Human Firewall

We started with Robert’s core idea: the “human firewall.”

At its essence, it’s about transforming employees from passive liabilities into active defenders. Traditional firewalls filter traffic. Human firewalls filter intent.

Instead of relying solely on technical controls, this approach builds awareness, judgment, and instinct across the organization. Employees aren’t just following rules. They’re recognizing risk in real time.

Robert drew a sharp contrast with standard security training. Most programs focus on compliance and minimal engagement. His model pushes toward something more durable: personal ownership.

Security Awareness vs. Security Appreciation

One of the most important distinctions Robert made was between awareness and appreciation.

Awareness is surface-level. It means knowing the rules.

Appreciation goes further. It means understanding why those rules matter and acting accordingly.

He illustrated this with what he calls the “kitchen table effect.” When employees internalize security lessons deeply enough, they bring them home. They talk about them with family. They apply them in everyday life.

That’s when behavior actually changes.

Security stops being a corporate requirement and becomes a personal value.

AI: The New Frontier

We also spent time on AI and its impact on cybersecurity.

Robert was clear: AI raises the stakes. Deepfakes, synthetic voices, and hyper-personalized phishing attacks make deception more convincing than ever.

Old mass phishing campaigns are fading. What’s replacing them is precision targeting at scale.

But there’s a flip side.

This shift creates a moment to re-engage people. When threats feel more real and more personal, training can become more relevant. More urgent. More effective.

The Personal Touch

As the conversation wrapped, Robert emphasized a simple principle:

Security works best when it feels personal.

Titles don’t matter here. Whether you’re a CTO, CISO, or team lead, your role is to make security relatable.

That might mean sharing stories. Running discussions during all-hands meetings. Talking about real-world examples, including how these threats show up at home, not just at work.

When people see themselves in the problem, they start to care about the solution.

Taking Action

For organizations looking to improve, Robert suggested starting with a basic question:

How does security currently show up in your company?

If it feels like a checklist, that’s the problem.

Reframe it as something empowering. Something human.

Build training that invites participation. Encourage questions. Create space for real conversations instead of one-way instruction.

The goal is to make security part of the culture, not just a requirement.

Final Thoughts

Robert Siciliano’s perspective is straightforward but often overlooked.

Technology matters. But mindset matters more.

If people care, they pay attention. If they pay attention, they catch things machines miss.

Security isn’t just a systems problem.

It’s a people problem.

And that’s exactly where the opportunity is.

Welcome to Episode 53 of The HockeyStick Show. I’m Miko Pawlikowski, and this week I sat down with Richard Heimann, Director of AI for the State of South Carolina and author of “Sutskever’s List”, to talk about the papers that built modern AI, the man behind OpenAI’s biggest breakthroughs, and what happens when living doubts become explosive decisions.

Richard walked me through Ilya Sutskever’s legendary reading list: 27 papers that supposedly explain 90% of what’s happening in artificial intelligence, and why understanding this curated canon matters more than drowning in the weekly flood of new research. The conversation moved fluidly between deep learning history, the Sam Altman firing saga, bubble economics, and the challenge of separating genuine progress from AGI fever dreams.

The Reading List That Became a Book

We started by exploring how a simple recommendation from Ilya to John Carmack turned into a full book project. When Ilya shared his reading list in 2021 or 2022, he made a promise: read these papers and you’ll understand 90% of what’s going on in AI.

Manning Publications initially wanted an anthology: 27 chapters analyzing each paper in isolation. Richard pushed back. The papers weren’t just standalone artifacts; they built on each other and told a larger human story. Ilya’s story. The publisher agreed, and Richard spent the last year weaving the technical breakthroughs into a narrative that makes sense for people who aren’t writing these papers themselves.

The book is done. The final chapters just went up on Manning’s early access program. Print release is scheduled for May 2025.

Who Is Ilya Sutskever and Why Should We Care?

For those who only know Ilya from the Sam Altman firing drama, Richard provided crucial context. This is the person responsible for AlexNet in 2012: the moment that launched the modern deep learning era. He’s behind Word2Vec, sequence-to-sequence models, and the scaling of transformers at OpenAI. GPT-1, 2, 3, and beyond.

But beyond the technical contributions, Ilya has this mystique. He doesn’t say much. When he does, it’s high signal. And his work has consistently centered on safety concerns, which makes him both a technical innovator and someone genuinely worried about the implications.

The reading list reflects his mental model. It gives insight into what he sees, what he values, and why he makes the decisions he makes.

The Sam Altman Firing: Living Doubts Gone Wrong

We spent significant time unpacking the OpenAI board saga. Richard’s take was fascinating: he traced it back to GPT-2 in 2019, when OpenAI deemed the model “too dangerous to release” and staged its rollout over nine months.

At the time, researchers were skeptical. It looked like hype-building. But Richard sees it differently now: it was a living doubt. Ilya and OpenAI acted on their safety concerns in a transparent, reversible way. They could always say “we were wrong” and release the full model, which they eventually did.

The Sam Altman firing was different. It was explosive, irreversible, and impossible to unwind once initiated. The lesson from a safety perspective: whatever your doubts are, structure them so you can reverse course if you’re wrong.

Bubble Economics and the Free Lunch Era

I asked the question everyone wants answered: are we in an AI bubble?

Richard’s response was nuanced. Yes, it’s bubbly. But bubbles aren’t inherently bad. Nothing important happens without bubbles. You don’t get this kind of capital, talent, and momentum from purely rational actors making measured bets.

The key difference from 2008: there’s real underlying technology here. It’s more like the dot-com bubble: bad ideas will get flushed out, valuations will correct, but the fundamental shift is genuine.

What’s remarkable isn’t the diminishing returns everyone’s complaining about. It’s that scaling worked at all. For 50-60 years, AI progress required genuine innovation: new architectures, new training tricks. For the last five years, we just made models bigger and threw more data at them. That free lunch was unprecedented.

Now the free lunch is ending. Ilya himself recently said the era of scaling is over. We’re going to need good ideas again.

AGI: Paper Hopes vs. Living Technology

Richard was refreshingly direct about AGI hype. He doesn’t find the concept appealing. It’s a paper hope: something people talk about but don’t actually build toward in meaningful ways.

The substrate we’re working with isn’t going to produce human-like intelligence. And we don’t need it to. The technology is already powerful and will continue improving linearly. But the exponential curves and S-curves are done. We’re hitting asymptotes.

The implication: a lot of the AI safety concerns about alignment and existential risk become less urgent. He doesn’t see an existential threat from his computer.

What’s Underrated and Overrated

I asked Richard what people are sleeping on and what’s empty hype.

Overrated: AGI and the entire AI safety research agenda focused on existential risk.

Underrated: The technology itself, at least among skeptics. Too many people dismiss these models as “stochastic parrots” or “just databases” without understanding what they actually are. The technology will be pervasive in five to ten years, and the skeptics are needlessly rounding down.

Working in Government AI

We also covered Richard’s day job: Director of AI for South Carolina. He evaluates use cases from 80+ state agencies, all interested in adopting AI. Some have clear ideas, others need help defining their approach.

About 80% is advisory: looking at use cases from technical, governance, privacy, and security perspectives. The remaining 20% is an informal accelerator developing strategic use cases in-house.

The scale is what attracts him. Even in a small state of 5 million people, the potential impact is enormous.

At its core, this episode was about understanding foundations in a field that rewards chasing novelty. How to build mental models that persist beyond the next model release. How to act on doubts without making irreversible mistakes. And what it takes to write a book that captures not just the papers, but the worldview behind them.

Welcome to Episode 44 of The Hockey Stick Show! I'm your host, Miko Pawlikowski, and today I’m diving deep into the fascinating crossroads of cybersecurity and psychology with Craig Taylor — a 25-year veteran of the security world, founder of cybersecurity education company CyberHoot, and someone with a background in behavioral science.

We explored what actually drives human behavior in cybersecurity, why most training fails, and how slot machines, shock collars, and America's Got Talent can all teach us something about protecting digital lives.

Slot Machines and Cybersecurity: What’s the Connection?

I kicked things off by asking Craig a fun but pointed question: what do slot machines have to do with cybersecurity?

Turns out, quite a lot.

Craig explained that slot machines use the most powerful behavioral reinforcement schedule known to psychology: intermittent rewards. It’s what makes them addictive — you never know which pull is going to win, so you keep going. Sound familiar? That principle is exactly how bad actors exploit human psychology with phishing emails and social engineering — there's always a small chance this one is real, or safe, or maybe even necessary to click.

His point: If hackers are using behavioral science to attack people, shouldn’t we be using it to defend them?

Rewards Work Better Than Punishment

One of Craig's strongest arguments was that the security industry relies too heavily on punishment — think "three-strikes-and-you're-fired" for clicking phishing emails. But this is outdated and ineffective.

Using real-world analogies (and a very vivid comparison involving shock collars and invisible fences), Craig broke down the differences between:

* Positive Reinforcement: Rewarding good behavior so it sticks. Think certificates, recognition, or gamification.

* Negative Reinforcement: Removing something unpleasant when the right action is taken — like your seatbelt dinging until you buckle up.

* Punishment: Applying an unpleasant consequence after bad behavior — like zapping a dog every time it crosses a line.

The best path forward? Use psychology to build habits, not fear. Like giving your employees treats (metaphorically speaking) instead of punishments.

Why Psychology Belongs in Cybersecurity

Craig’s background in psychology isn’t just a cool origin story — it’s a competitive edge. He’s used those skills to lead security programs for Fortune 500 companies, framing secure behaviors in a way that makes teams want to comply — not because they were forced to, but because they were convinced it's their own idea.

It’s not about “locking everything down” after a breach — it’s about getting involved early and collaboratively to prevent issues in the first place.

What’s Actually Causing Breaches?

You might imagine hackers furiously typing code like in the movies. But in reality?

* #1 cause of breaches for the last 20 years: Phishing.

* #2: Bad password hygiene.

From AI-driven phishing attacks to nation-state actors lurking inside U.S. telecom networks, the threats are evolving — but most of them still rely on human error. That’s why education and behavior change are more important than ever.

The Problem With Credit Monitoring (And the Better Alternative)

We also talked about breach fatigue — the idea that everyone’s data has already been leaked at this point, so why care?

Craig had a perfect analogy: credit monitoring is like living next to a fire station — it doesn’t stop your house from catching fire, it just means someone will be there after the damage is done.

Instead, he recommends freezing your credit at all major (and lesser-known) bureaus to prevent identity theft in the first place. In his words: “Don’t monitor the fire — fireproof your house.”

Cyber Literacy Is the Future

Craig coined a term I think we should all get behind: cyber literacy.

It’s not just knowing how to use a computer — it’s understanding phishing, password security, MFA, and how social engineering works. Most schools and workplaces teach computer literacy, but not cyber literacy — and that’s the gap we need to close.

Final Thoughts

This episode left me thinking about how much we could improve security if we just… stopped punishing people and started teaching them. And more importantly, started rewarding them for doing the right things.

Craig’s biggest takeaway? Security works better when it’s built on psychology and compassion.

You can find more of Craig’s work at CyberHoot.com.

Thanks for tuning in, and if you liked this conversation, share it with a friend — and maybe your company’s IT team. They’ll thank you later.

Stay safe. Stay smart. And don’t click suspicious links.Until next time,—Miko

Welcome to Episode 43 of The Hockey Stick Show! I'm Miko Pawlikowski, and in this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Colin McIntosh, founder and CEO of Sheets & Giggles. We talked about building a purpose-driven brand, the power of humor in business, and how to grow a company without taking yourself too seriously.

Building a Brand That Doesn’t Take Itself Too Seriously

Colin shared the origin story of Sheets & Giggles, a sustainable bedding company that’s anything but boring. From a hilarious brand name to clever ad copy, Colin explained how humor has been a crucial part of the company’s identity from day one. But it’s not just about making people laugh—it’s about standing out in a crowded market with authenticity.

Purpose and Profit Can Coexist

What really stood out is how Colin built Sheets & Giggles around sustainability. Their eucalyptus lyocell sheets use 96% less water and produce significantly lower carbon emissions than traditional cotton. Colin believes that doing good doesn’t have to come at the expense of growth. In fact, it can be your growth engine.

How to Build a Business with No Plan B

Colin’s entrepreneurial journey is rooted in resilience. He talked about the emotional rollercoaster of running a startup and why having “no plan B” pushed him to make Sheets & Giggles a success. His advice? Be uncomfortably honest with yourself, stay lean, and don’t be afraid to do things differently—even if people don’t get it at first.

Insights for Aspiring Founders

Getting Started:Colin encourages would-be founders to stop waiting for perfect conditions. You don’t need a huge team or funding to start. He launched Sheets & Giggles with a crowdfunding campaign and a strong brand voice. The result? $284K in pre-orders in just 30 days.

Raising Capital:When it comes to raising money, Colin emphasized building genuine relationships with investors and not being afraid to walk away if the fit isn’t right. He also touched on why being a profitable business shouldn’t be a revolutionary concept—and why chasing venture capital shouldn’t always be the end goal.

Customer First, Always:A key part of their strategy is community engagement. From meme-filled newsletters to random acts of kindness, Sheets & Giggles is all about delighting customers in unexpected ways. Colin shared how this approach helped build a loyal fanbase and led to organic word-of-mouth growth.

Leadership with Empathy and Integrity

As a founder, Colin values empathy above all else. Whether it’s hiring, managing a team, or communicating with customers, he believes in treating people with respect. We talked about how this human-first approach shapes the culture at Sheets & Giggles and leads to better business outcomes.

Final Thoughts

This episode is packed with insights on how to run a company that’s fun, sustainable, and unapologetically different. Colin’s journey reminds us that you can be mission-driven and profitable, strategic and silly, serious about success without taking yourself too seriously.

You can learn more about Sheets & Giggles at sheetsgiggles.com and follow Colin on LinkedIn and Twitter for more wisdom (and plenty of laughs).

Thanks for tuning in!

Welcome to Episode 42 of The Hockey Stick Show! I'm Miko Pawlikowski, and today, I'm excited to share my conversation with Jodi Barrett of KB Stronger. We talked about fitness, the myths surrounding it, and how to make exercise a consistent part of our lives without feeling overwhelmed.

Debunking Fitness Myths

I started our chat by asking Jodi about the common misconception that weightlifting makes women too muscular. Jodi, who is quite the expert in myth-busting, assured us that women fear gaining muscle too easily, but in reality, it takes significant time and effort to bulk up. So, ladies, if you lift weights, you're not going to turn into Arnold Schwarzenegger overnight!

The Importance of Mindset

Jodi emphasized that mindset is key to fitness success. She shared how launching KB Stronger in 2023 was a turning point for her. The pandemic pushed her to move online, which she initially saw as a challenge but later realized was an opportunity to reach more people. Jodi's key takeaway: Look for the positive in every situation.

Actionable Advice for Different Fitness Levels

We discussed how to motivate different people based on their fitness levels:

For Beginners: If you're unmotivated, start small. Place a kettlebell or a small weight near your desk. This keeps fitness on your mind. Try basic movements like a squat or swing just to get moving.

For Intermediate Folk: If you're somewhat active but need more structure, consider joining a program. Stacking habits is essential. Start by moving a bit more and build your schedule from there.

For the Fitness Enthusiasts: If you're already into fitness, continue challenging yourself. Yet, remember to not overcomplicate things. Simplicity can lead to sustained success.

Staying Committed

One of the toughest challenges is sticking with a routine. Jodi suggests creating habits and setting obtainable goals. Consistency is key, even if it means starting with just walking. Yes, simple walking. People often underestimate the benefits of a regular walk outdoors but it can significantly improve your health.

Jodi's Advice for New Parents

New parents might struggle with time and energy for fitness. Jodi's advice is to try smaller exercises and embrace the phases of life. A 10-minute workout can be just as valuable as an hour if that's what fits your lifestyle right now.

The Power of Being Your Own Cheerleader

Jodi believes in being your own biggest cheerleader. Set small goals and celebrate your victories. It's all about learning to rely on yourself and maintaining the integrity of your word. You're responsible for showing up for you.

Final Thoughts

Fitness is more than just physical. It’s about mindset, consistency, and finding what works for you. Jodi's approach of keeping things simple and attainable is a testament to achieving sustainable fitness.

If you're motivated to start or continue your fitness journey, remember to take it one step at a time and enjoy the process. You can find Jodi at kbstronger.com and follow her on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Thanks for tuning in!

In Episode 41 of the Hockeystick Show, I had the pleasure of speaking with Anthony Eden, a seasoned veteran in the domain and DNS space, who shared his journey and provided invaluable insights into the industry. From his tales of moving his family to Hawaii to the intricate workings of the internet's backbone—the DNS system—Anthony offered both a deep dive into his personal story and practical knowledge for tech enthusiasts.

From Surfboards to DNS—Anthony's Unique Journey

Anthony's story begins quite uniquely; he received an intriguing email on New Year's Eve from a software developer in Hawaii who needed his help. What followed was an adventurous move for his entire family, including his three-year-old triplets, to the islands. Anthony combined his passions for surfing and software as they tried to make things work in the Aloha State. This bold move is a testament to taking calculated risks in pursuit of fulfilling both personal and professional ambitions.

Diving Into DNS

Many might ask, with hundreds of top-level domain extensions available, why does .com still hold the crown? Anthony explains that the operational side of DNS is layered and complex, starting from the root servers to the top-level domain registries and then to the registrars. Knowing who pays the bills behind these critical infrastructures was another revelation; it's a multi-stakeholder effort involving companies, nonprofits, and governments globally, ensuring the resilience and stability of the internet.

One actionable lesson here is understanding the significance of DNS. It's crucial for web operations, and there’s room for expertise in managing both operational and intellectual property aspects of domains.

Bootstrapping Success—The DNSimple Story

Listen to Anthony's experience of building DNsimple with his brother, starting from their operational focus, rather than just being a domain registrar. His commitment to keeping things simple has proven successful, illustrating a valuable lesson in niching down and mastering a specific area, rather than expanding too broadly without deep knowledge.

For entrepreneurs, his story encourages creating a company that aligns with your values and lifestyle. Anthony valued time over money, and his business model reflects that, focusing on steady, organic growth without outside investment pressures.

The Unseen Backbone - DNS’s Role in the Internet

DNS, as Anthony discussed, is the cornerstone of the internet. He breaks down the roles of operational DNS and intellectual property, highlighting its misunderstood yet crucial place in the digital world. For technologists, understanding DNS's function as a protocol for converting domain names to IP addresses opens up opportunities to innovate and optimize web performance.

Advice for Aspiring Tech Entrepreneurs

* Know Your Domain: Anthony's career began by immersing himself in the domain industry. Understanding your niche deeply allows you to carve out unique opportunities, just as DNsimple has done by focusing on both DNS operations and domain registrations.

* Keep It Simple: By stripping away complexities and focusing on what truly matters, like DNsimple does with its DNS services, you can create a product that serves its core users well.

* Seize Opportunities: Anthony didn’t plan on moving to Hawaii based on an email, but sometimes the riskier path can lead to the most rewarding experiences. Be open to opportunities that align with your skills and passions.

* Build for Sustainability: Anthony’s emphasis on maintaining a sustainable and profitable company over hyper-growth is a key takeaway. It allows for a business model that supports both personal freedom and professional success.

My conversation with Anthony Eden was eye-opening. It served as a reminder of the fundamental protocols that keep the internet running seamlessly and the entrepreneurial spirit needed to navigate and capitalize on opportunities within the tech space. Whether you're managing your own digital product or simply a tech enthusiast wanting to learn more about the internet’s infrastructure, the world of DNS is one worth exploring.

Welcome to Episode 40 of The Hockeystick Show! I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Hannes Lenke, CEO and co-founder of Checkly—a forward-thinking company bridging the gap in DevOps with innovative monitoring solutions. Hannes shared his journey from the spark of a side project to a full-fledged startup success. Here are some key takeaways from our insightful conversation.

The Journey from Idea to Startup

"If you're considering starting a venture, remember this: a startup is a long-term commitment," Hannes emphasizes. He began Checkly as a side project, which evolved into a thriving business when he noticed a market shift towards solutions for cross-functional DevOps teams. This significant transition wasn’t just a leap of faith; it was guided by observing early signals and a changing landscape in software development.

Actionable Lesson 1: Test Before You Leap

Before diving headfirst into the whirlwind of a startup, Hannes advises, "Test the waters—verify your idea." He speaks to those budding entrepreneurs who hesitate, inspired by big success stories but unsure of their grounded potential. For Hannes, an early signal was witnessing users excited to pay even a small fee for his service. This is your cue that the market is interested, making it wise to invest your time and resources.

Actionable Lesson 2: Patience and Commitment

Success does not happen overnight. "It's a marathon, not a sprint," Hannes shares. While tales of overnight success can be enticing, the reality is that most startups take years to mature and develop. It’s crucial to prepare for the long haul and maintain your enthusiasm and tenacity throughout the years of building and growing.

Remote Culture: Challenges and Advantages

With a fully remote team, Hannes has navigated the pros and cons of this modern work setup. Being remote offers the advantage of tapping into a global talent pool without geographical constraints. However, effective communication becomes paramount.

Actionable Lesson 3: Foster Transparency and Communication

Transparency is key in managing a remote team. Hannes discusses using weekly stand-ups and leveraging tools like Slack and Notion for open channels of communication. He insists that essential decisions be well-documented and accessible to ensure alignment within the team. It might be digital, but ensuring your team feels connected and well-informed is invaluable.

The Funding Landscape: A European Perspective

Having built and sold a startup prior, Hannes was mindful of the need for international-minded investors when establishing Checkly. This alignment aids in scaling businesses globally, opening doors to new markets, like the U.S., which offered a larger playground for growth despite its challenges.

Actionable Lesson 4: Choose Investors Wisely

Hannes highlights the importance of selecting investors who embrace a global perspective. They should not only offer financial backing but also guide you toward expansion and sustainability internationally.

Embrace and Enjoy the Challenge

Above all, Hannes’s message is clear—enjoy what you do. As entrepreneurs, aligning your profession with your passion transforms challenges into thrilling opportunities. Startups demand dedication, yet they yield unparalleled satisfaction when you witness your vision helping the industry evolve.

As I glean from my own experiences in tech, the journey of entrepreneurship is peppered with ‘wantrepreneurs’—those hovering on the brink of pursuing their ideas. The takeaway is simple: validate your idea, take the leap, and be prepared to weather the storm with a clear view of where you want to be.

Thank you to Hannes Lenke for sharing his valuable insights on startup life, remote culture, and the intricacies of growth in the evolving tech landscape. Join us for more episodes on The Hockeystick Show as we continue to explore these critical conversations with industry leaders and innovators.

Hi everyone, welcome to Episode 39 of the Hockeystick Show. Today, I had the pleasure of talking with Will Kurt, a talented writer and AI expert. This conversation was a deep dive into the world of AI, writing, and creative expression. Let me share some key points and lessons from the episode.

* 45% off A Damn Fine Stable Diffusion Book: HSSkurt2

* Affiliate link: https://mng.bz/zZdX

Writing to Learn and Share

Will started our chat by explaining why he writes books. For him, writing is a way to learn something really well and share it with others. He talked about how much energy and time go into writing a book, and how it helps him understand complex things. If you want to master a topic, try writing about it. It can really open up new ways of thinking.

Discovering AI and Art

We also talked about Will’s new book on stable diffusion, a tool used in generating art through AI. Will is very excited about how open-source AI allows anyone to create amazing things, not just tech experts. If you're curious about AI, don’t hesitate to jump in and explore. Experimenting can lead to wonderful and sometimes unexpected creations.

The Power of Community

A big part of our conversation was about community and how important it is in driving new ideas. Will believes the more diverse the community, the more creative the outcomes. He suggests not to overlook unconventional ideas, as they often lead to unique breakthroughs. Surround yourself with different thinkers and doers—it can be a big source of inspiration and development.

Understanding AI Tools

Will broke down different AI tools like Stable Diffusion and Flux. He shared how open-source tools provide more flexibility and control over projects. It’s crucial to understand the tech you're using, he says. If you’re interested in AI, stay updated and keep learning about the latest tools and models available.

Balancing AI in Art

Lastly, we talked about AI in the art world. Will reminded us that while AI can boost creativity, it’s important to think about how it affects originality. Use AI to enhance your work, but always be mindful of how it shapes your art and creativity.

Wrapping Up

This episode was filled with great insights from Will Kurt. Whether you’re someone who loves writing, tech, or art, there’s something here for you. Use writing as a way to really learn and share knowledge, join and learn from creative communities, and keep up with new tech advances. These steps can help you grow your understanding and make unique contributions in your field.

Thanks for joining us on this journey. Keep exploring the exciting connections between creativity and technology. Stay curious and keep experimenting with new ideas and tools!

00:00 Introduction: Why Write the Book?00:21 Exploring Stable Diffusion and Creative Uses01:02 Meet the Author: Will Kurt01:31 Sneak Peek: Upcoming Projects and Collaborations02:23 The Journey of Writing a Book04:22 Target Audience and Community Impact06:33 Challenges and Rewards of Being an Author14:24 The Role of AI in Content Creation19:39 The Future of AI and Creative Expression37:27 The Genius of GANs38:08 Evolution of Stable Diffusion40:49 Open Source vs Proprietary Models41:55 The Future of AI and Local Models43:18 Challenges in AI Research and Development46:19 The Role of LLMs in Software Engineering58:21 Vibes-Driven Development01:06:10 The Philosophical Implications of AI01:10:28 Conclusion and Contact Information

This time I had the pleasure of welcoming Eric Collett, CEO of A Mind for All Seasons. Our conversation shifted my perspective on brain health, making me rethink how we should approach productivity and overall mental wellness.

Use promo code HOCKEY to try A Mind for All Seasons for 30 days free.

Understanding the Brain as Hardware

Eric’s analogy of viewing the brain as hardware stuck with me and catalyzed an intense curiosity during our discussion. It was a reminder that no matter how much "software" or skills we try to load onto ourselves, if our "hardware" isn't functioning optimally, we’ll always hit a performance ceiling. Just like we upgrade our devices, it’s crucial to optimize our brain's functioning for better results in life and work.

The Role of Inflammation and Mitochondria

Eric talked about the importance of calming inflammation and boosting energy production in our brains. He made an intriguing comparison to fire; just as fire can be beneficial or destructive, inflammation in the body can play a crucial role in health or hinder it, depending on its presence or absence of control.

Eric highlighted the imbalance between omega 6 and omega 3 fatty acids in our diets, emphasizing how a significant portion of the Western world consumes far more omega 6, which can exacerbate inflammation. This imbalance parallels being better at starting fires rather than extinguishing them.

Lessons Learned

One of the key takeaways from this episode was understanding how modern life's lack of natural stressors can negatively impact our mitochondria and brain performance. Engaging in hormetic stressors, such as varying our environment through sunlight, temperature changes, or intermittent fasting, can stimulate mitochondria to improve our health.

Another crucial insight was the emphasis on starting small and acknowledging that long-term habit formation is more effective when we focus on one change at a time. Implementing exercise "snacks" or small physical activities throughout the day can significantly boost cognitive performance.

A Mind for All Seasons: Coaching for Better Brain Health

Towards the end of our conversation, Eric described the personalized, data-driven approach his company employs to enhance brain health. Whether through membership in their extensive educational platform or personalized coaching and assessments, A Mind for All Seasons supports individuals in achieving optimal brain function.

Closing Thoughts

This episode is a treasure trove of actionable insights for anyone looking to optimize their brain health, break through performance plateaus, and uncover a clearer path towards longevity and productivity. I invite you to listen to the episode and consider integrating some of these lessons into your own life for a better brain and brighter future. Remember, the journey to optimal health is just one small action taken consistently over time.

Thank you for joining me in this exploration. If you want to dive deeper into these topics, check out A Mind for All Seasons for more resources. Let’s all strive to live better, healthier, and more fulfilled lives. Stay tuned for the next episode!

00:00 Understanding Brain Hardware and Productivity

00:33 The Importance of Omega 3s and Inflammation

01:22 Introduction to Eric Collette

01:56 Brain Health and Cognitive Optimization

07:32 The Role of Mitochondria in Brain Function

15:46 Inflammation and Brain Health

27:57 Mitochondria and Energy Production Issues

28:10 Fish Oil: Benefits and Potential Downsides

29:47 Concerns About Fish Consumption

30:49 Microplastics and Mercury in Fish

34:19 The Importance of Energy Production in Cells

40:59 Understanding Mitochondria and Cellular Health

41:56 Hormesis: Stressors That Boost Mitochondria

45:30 Exercise Snacking and Brain Training

49:50 Implementing Healthy Habits

53:31 A Mind For All Seasons: Membership and Coaching

56:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Do you remember that amazing feeling of absolutely NAILING something REALLY hard?

Overcoming some TREMENDOUS odds?

Scientifically speaking, that’s dopamine, the “feel good chemical”.

And this video is about a rather unusual way of getting HEAPS of it.

And it’s 100% legal.

参る SEKIRO

Don’t worry, today I won’t be sending you to jump into an ice cold bath.

No, we'll be warm and cozy, and at the end of it you’ll have the perfect excuse for playing video games as a fully grown human.

More specifically, one particular game called: Sekiro.

But you can’t spell SEKIRO without DARK SOULS.

So the whole story starts last year when my wife and I went to Japan for the first time.

When we got back with more plushies than I’m ready to admit, some serious nostalgia kicked in.

The next thing I know, I’m playing all my favourite childhood games on Switch.

Life was good.

But then this weird thing happened.

I googled good games for Switch, and that one obscure title just kept coming up: Dark Souls.

It’s hard to describe what playing Dark Souls is like.

One one hand, the game clearly hates you. It doesn’t care if you die, and you will die a lot. There is no map, there are no reliable hints because the ones you find might be trolling you, and there is no “easy” difficulty setting for newcomers.

Every inch of progress you make is through blood, sweat, trial and error. You’re literally always one false step away from death.

Like seriously, one press of a button and YOU DIE

On the other hand, it also clearly wants you to keep trying, and it wants you to eventually overcome the difficulty and succeed.

And when you do, you know you achieved something meaningful.

The dopamine feels AMAZING. And you don’t need a medal, the achievement in itself is rewarding.

That feeling is now synonymous with a small Japanese company called FROM SOFTWARE.

FROM SOFTWARE

Dark Souls, and more broadly the Souls-like genre was created by a Japanese studio called From Software, under the lead of Hidetaka Miyazaki.

The story starts in 2009 with the release of Demon’s Souls, a dark fantasy game trying to recreate a challenging gameplay that Miyazaki felt was dying out. Ironically, Miyazaki was only able to take this - let’s be honest - rather risk of trying something new, because the project he took over was already failing, and his career wouldn’t take a hit.

When they released the demo, well… let’s just say it didn’t go so well. Some Japanese press called it “an unbelievably bad game”, mostly because of its unexpectedly challenging gameplay. Really, everyone expected it to flop, including Miyazaki himself.

And that’s because the game wasn’t like the others.

It wasn’t there to please you, or give you a nice time.

It EXPECTED you to fail. Over and over again.

And then it expected you to dust yourself off, learn a lesson, and try again, harder.

When the actual game launched, the feedback was different.

It turned out that gamers were a bunch of masochists and they FREAKING LOVED IT.

It even got the 2009 Overall Game of the Year award, and its Metacritic score sits at 89/100 today.

After Demon’s Souls, From Software released the Dark Souls trilogy (Dark Souls, BEEP & Dark Souls 3), Bloodborne, Sekiro and Elden Ring, all different takes on the same base recipe.

As for myself, I love SEKIRO.

SEKIRO

My favourite of the genre, and probably my favourite game of all times is Sekiro.

The game is set in the late Sengoku period of Japan, and you play as a shinobi (a japanese word for ninja).

I don’t really want to spoil the plot, so I’m not gonna tell you anything about prosthetics, giant apes, even more giant snakes, lightning dragons, and a whole lot of katana fights.

What I will tell you is why this game is a masterpiece: it’s perfectly balanced.

Yes. It’s punishing. Gruelling sometimes. A split second delay usually costs you your life.

You will throw the controller into the pillow pretty hard at times.

And no, it doesn’t exactly give you a helping hand.

But each time you die, you immediately learn what you did wrong. The game gives you just enough to have another thing to try at your next attempt.

It demands that you learn its way, and unlike other games in the genre, there is no walkaround.

If you want to finish the game, you have to become excellent at it.

And you become excellent by practicing.

You learn every opponent’s moves to anticipate and parry them just in time, within a few dozen milliseconds margin.

Many fans describe that feeling when you finally start getting it right as “clicking”.

The first few attempts, you are getting your ass handed to you.

But then you finally “click”, and it’s the opponent who suddenly becomes prey.

And the game wants you to play aggressively.

There is this mechanic to break the enemies’ posture for an instant kill.

Every time they attack, and you deliver a perfect parry, their posture bar takes a hit.

And when it gets to zero, you can kill them regardless of how much health they have left.

However, as soon as you stop attacking or parrying, their posture bar starts to recover.

So perfect defence is also an offensive mechanism in Sekiro.

And there is no time to waste.

That’s why…

HESITATION IS DEFEAT

Getting excellent at Sekiro takes anywhere between 20 and 100 hours of work for most people.

The same as that last series you binge-watched 5 seasons of, except that your heart rate monitor will think you’re working out with this one.

It’s a complete, miniature version of the mental training you need to achieve anything of value in life.

Going to the gym. Building a business. Getting good at any sport. Losing weight.

You can only really lose if you stop trying.

But it goes deeper.

If you want the game to respect you, you have to best it.

You have to be able to handle everything it throws at you.

You have to become the final boss.

And when you do, your only reward will be satisfaction.

SEKIRO IS ART

Sekiro reminded me why games can be a form of art.

Every CEO, CTO, startup founder, business owner, athlete, high level professional.

Everyone should try Sekiro.

It’s that perfect little sandbox for what struggling through a difficulty and eventually succeeding feels like.

And it’s balanced perfectly.

Everyone with a free weekend can start feeling the IMMENSE satisfaction from getting good at it.

But it’s hard enough to make you sweat for it.

Does it feel as good as learning a ridiculously hard musical piece on a violin?

A violin made from a rare wood you had to cut down yourself in the heart of Siberai?

A violin that you built yourself under the only remaining grand master of that obscure school no one knows about?

Well, actually, I have no idea. Leave a comment if you know.

Does it feel like microdosing dopamine to help you get better at other hard things in life?

Hell yeah. And that’s why it’s a masterpiece.

🚀 TL;DR

Some Chinese nerd just beat OpenAI using old hardware and less than 0.1% of their yearly training budget, then proceeded to rub it in their face by releasing it free & open source (MIT), along with the paper explaining how they did it.Imagine the atmosphere at OpenAI right now, especially after they announced that $0.5 trillion funding round

📜 Long(er) version

Last week, an AI lab you’ve never heard of, called Deepseek, released a reasoning model that’s equal or better at various benchmarks when compared to the latest models from OpenAI, Anthropic, Meta, or anybody else.“So what” right? “Aren’t there new models coming out every other week”?Yes, but this one is special for 6 reasons:1/ It’s open source, and comes with a paper that explains how it works, in English. You can download it and use it under MIT license, so we know it’s 100% legit.2/ It was trained on a shoestring budget compared to what OpenAI is splurging on their models. 3/ It’s much smaller than the competitors, so it can be run more cheaply. It comes in a variety of sizes and can run on a phone locally!4/ Comes out of China, despite the US preventing them from using the latest chips. They basically trained this on previous gen hardware.5/ It’s using Reinforcement Learning (RL) & a technique called distillation, when they use a bigger model to train the smaller model.6/ They already have an app, which within a week has officially topped App Store ranking, dethorning ChatGPT.Is this the end of closed AI companies like OpenAI?Will billions in valuation suddenly vanish?We’ll find out soon!What we know for sure is that it’s unlocked a new era.And being open source, is so far the biggest gift to the world in the domain of AI.

Welcome to episode 35 of the HockeyStick podcast. I'm Miko Pawlikowski, and today we have the pleasure of speaking with JJ Tang, the co-founder of Rootly. This episode jumps into JJ's personal journey, from his humble beginnings in Mongolia to the helm of a thriving B2B SaaS company, offering insights and reflections along the way.

A Remarkable Upbringing

JJ’s story began far away from the tech industry, in the villages of Inner Mongolia. Raised by his grandparents while his parents pursued their PhDs in Canada, JJ’s early years were marked by a life without modern conveniences like electricity and plumbing. JJ shared colorful tales of resilient childhood experiences, such as keeping warm on mud beds by carving tunnels to channel furnace heat. This upbringing instilled a certain steeliness and gratitude in JJ—qualities that he attributes to his success today.

Building Rootly

As a founder, JJ embodies the essence of perseverance and laser-focused vision. His journey from Canada to Y Combinator (YC) during the COVID-19 pandemic was driven by the unique opportunity to solve a problem not addressed effectively by the market. Rootly, an on-call and incident management platform, emerged from a clear need identified from JJ’s work experience at Instacart and his relentless pursuit of customer understanding.

JJ’s approach included endless days of cold calling and personalized customer interactions, efforts that laid down the foundation for Rootly’s growth. His commitment to understanding customer needs firsthand has been a key driver for product refinement and market success.

Strategic Growth and Customer Trust

One of the core strategies that set Rootly apart was its dedication to customer empathy and support. JJ adopted unorthodox methods to ensure worldwide support, answering customer inquiries around the clock. This hard-earned trust and credibility with early adopters propelled Rootly to become a leader in its field, providing essential services to large organizations like NVIDIA, LinkedIn, and even national emergency call centers.

Lessons Learned

Throughout our conversation, JJ shared several lessons that resonate deeply with entrepreneurs:

* Empathy Drives Innovation: By being in the trenches with customers, JJ fosters a culture of empathy, allowing his team to respond accurately to client needs and enhancing the product in meaningful ways.

* Stay Focused: JJ's focus on Rootly’s core competency—incident management—has been instrumental in navigating tough economic seasons and staying ahead of competitors.

* Support as a Superpower: For startups, offering epic support can be a differentiator. Rootly leveraged its size to offer personalized, impactful customer service, often outperforming larger competitors.

* Adapting Messaging: By adjusting how they communicated Rootly’s value proposition to align with customer understanding, JJ increased engagement and trial initiation dramatically.

* Enduring the Struggle: Success stories often feature long, tireless stretches of hard work. JJ’s narrative includes 400 consecutive days of support and outreach, showcasing the grit required to thrive as a new entrant in the market.

Looking Ahead

Rootly’s future is as promising as its origin story is inspiring. JJ and his team remain resolutely focused on expanding their capabilities to enhance both reactive and proactive reliability solutions. Their unwavering dedication to their core mission, despite the allure of new trends and technologies, exemplifies leadership with purpose.

As we wrapped up this episode of HockeyStick, I reflected on the unique and authentic tale JJ Tang shared—a story underscored by hard work, resilience, and gratitude. Rootly’s ongoing journey illustrates the power of an emotionally invested founder determined to create something remarkable from modest beginnings to commanding market position.

00:00 Intro

03:17 Growing Up in Mongolia

08:12 Journey to Y Combinator

11:22 Scaling Rootly with Focus and Empathy

20:31 Challenges and Strategies in Early-Stage Sales

22:07 The Importance of Customer Support

31:52 Reflecting on Rootly's Success and Future

37:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Welcome to Episode 52 of The HockeyStick Show. I’m Miko Pawlikowski, and this week I sat down with Maggie Engler and Numa Dhamani, co-authors of “Introduction to Generative AI (Second Edition)”, to talk about navigating the AI landscape without getting swept up in hype, fear, or misinformation.

Maggie and Numa shared what it’s like to write a technical book in a field moving so fast that a second edition became necessary just a year after the first. The conversation moved fluidly between AI agents, copyright battles, bubble economics, and the challenge of staying grounded when headlines scream about both utopia and apocalypse.

When Your Book Needs an Update Before the Ink Dries

We started by exploring why a second edition was needed so quickly. The answer wasn’t just new models or better benchmarks—it was a fundamental shift in how people think about and use generative AI.

When the first edition came out, people were still asking “What is generative AI?” By the time they started the second edition, the question had become “How do I actually use this in my daily work?” The technology moved from experiment to infrastructure in less than two years.

Maggie and Numa described the challenge of writing about a field where specific results and capabilities change weekly. Their solution: focus on teaching people how to interpret new developments rather than chasing the latest numbers.

Agents: Promise, Limitations, and Reality

We spent significant time on AI agents—one of the biggest additions to the second edition. The conversation was refreshingly balanced. No wild predictions about fully automated workflows next quarter. No dismissive skepticism either.

They explained how agents show real promise in constrained domains like coding, where you can verify results against tests. Tool use capabilities have improved. Infrastructure like Anthropic’s Model Context Protocol is maturing. But we’re still far from the autonomous systems some headlines suggest.

The key insight: agents work best when you can clearly define success and verify outcomes. The further you get from that, the more human oversight you need.

The Legal Wild West and Copyright Chaos

The copyright discussion was particularly interesting. Maggie and Numa didn’t dance around the obvious: large-scale model developers are training on copyrighted material. The question isn’t whether it’s happening—it’s what happens next.

We talked about the recent SORA controversy, where OpenAI initially told anime studios they could opt out character by character, then reversed course within days. The lawsuits, the settlements, the attempts at licensing frameworks—it’s all still being negotiated in real time.

Their take: we’re converging on some baseline principles around transparency and accountability, but the intellectual property questions will take much longer to resolve.

Bubble or Revolution? Yes.

I asked the question everyone wants answered: are we in an AI bubble?

Their response was nuanced. Yes, there are bubble characteristics—high valuations, massive investment, limited returns, lots of speculation. But no, the underlying technology isn’t a passing fad. The comparison to the dot-com era felt apt: real value underneath, correction likely, but the fundamental shift is genuine.

Maggie predicted we’ll see market consolidation and some valuations adjusting. Numa emphasized we’re moving from wild optimism toward more measured metrics and tempered hype. But the core technology will keep evolving, and returns will materialize.

Starting Points and Practical Advice

We closed by discussing how people should actually get started with generative AI today. Their advice was simple: just play with the tools. Try Gemini, Claude, ChatGPT. Most have free tiers. Experiment with prompting. See what works for you.

The hesitation people feel—not knowing the “right” use cases or perfect prompts—is the main barrier. The best way through it is hands-on exploration, not more reading.

At its core, this episode was about maintaining perspective in a field that rewards extremes. How to stay informed without getting overwhelmed. How to evaluate capabilities honestly without falling into either hype or cynicism. And what it takes to write a book that stays relevant when the field updates faster than publishing cycles allow.

Welcome to Episode 34 of the HockeyStick podcast! In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Charlie Lass, a serial entrepreneur whose journey through the business world is as fascinating as it is instructive. Throughout our conversation, we explored not only the highs and lows of his entrepreneurial adventures but also his deep insights into what it truly takes to succeed. Charlie's story is a testament to the demands—and rewards—of entrepreneurship, and I’m excited to share some key takeaways with you all.

Charting the Path from Film to Startups

It was a revelation to learn that Charlie's venture into entrepreneurship began in the world of film production. As he recounts, his initial foray into producing films taught him invaluable lessons about idea execution and management, which later became assets in the startup world. The parallels he draws between creating films and building products highlight a universal truth in entrepreneurship: both industries require creativity, resilience, and an ability to bring ideas to life.

The Art of Rapid Launch: Humble Inc. and Consultancy Frameworks

When discussing his latest ventures, Charlie goes into the origins and philosophy of Humble Inc. He emphasizes the importance of launching ideas quickly and efficiently, often within just 30 days. This approach, he explains, hinges on cutting through unnecessary elements and focusing on the core value of a product or service. We discussed how it plays into the broader theme of requirements versus time constraints, showcasing the effectiveness of targeted, result-oriented processes.

The Mental Health Imperative for Entrepreneurs

A significant portion of our conversation focused on the mental health challenges that entrepreneurs face. Charlie candidly talked about his own struggles, including a significant nervous breakdown, which led him to underscore the necessity of maintaining mental wellbeing in the entrepreneurial journey. He advocates for a balanced approach, advising fellow entrepreneurs to prioritize their health and sanity alongside their business goals.

Unraveling Entrepreneurial Myths

Charlie's insights included debunking several prevalent myths in the entrepreneurial domain:

* Secrecy Kills Progress: Entrepreneurs often fear sharing their ideas, but according to Charlie, secrecy can hinder feedback and growth. By opening up and engaging with others, entrepreneurs can refine and enhance their ideas.

* Founders versus Co-Founders: The myth that having a co-founder is essential was challenged. Charlie argues for a more flexible approach, suggesting a single founder leading initially until the opportunity and necessity to bring in additional partners arises.

* The Reality of Exits: Charlie shared an eye-opening perspective on exits, describing them as milestones often laced with relief rather than the fairy-tale finale many envision. The journey to an exit is complex, and understanding this can align expectations with reality.

Business Lessons Learned

Reflecting on my talk with Charlie, several business lessons stood out:

* Validate Early, Launch Fast: Before pouring resources into development, validate ideas with potential customers. Speed is crucial.

* Prioritize Mental Health: No business success is worth the cost of mental wellbeing. As Charlie puts it, "If it costs your mental health, it’s too expensive."

* Embrace Flexibility: Entrepreneurship requires adaptability. Plans may shift as market conditions and personal circumstances evolve.

* Focus on the Problem, Not Just the Product: Understanding customer pain points and addressing them effectively is more valuable than delivering a technically perfect product.

Conclusion

Episode 34 with Charlie Lass was an enlightening trip through the bustling, often unpredictable world of entrepreneurship. His journey, informed by real-life triumphs and setbacks, offers wisdom for anyone looking to navigate the entrepreneurial landscape. As we look forward to future episodes, I encourage you to reflect on these insights and apply them to your own ventures. Until next time, thank you for tuning into the HockeyStick podcast.

00:00 Introduction: Elon Musk and Hustle Culture00:12 The Reality of Entrepreneurship00:39 The Myth of Equal Co-Founding01:10 Journey into Film Production02:12 Transition to Startups03:07 Launching ViaPost03:26 Serial Entrepreneurship03:56 The Essence of Entrepreneurship05:55 Dallas Inc: Rapid Market Entry11:02 Mentoring and Mental Health15:04 Humble Inc: A Resource for Entrepreneurs29:28 Finding Your Unique Competitive Edge30:17 Debunking Startup Myths30:53 The Co-Founder Dilemma31:47 Equity and Valuation Realities41:54 The Truth About Startup Exits51:19 Mental Health and Productivity Tips55:13 Charlie's Book and Future Plans

Welcome to the 33rd episode of The HockeyStick Podcast! In this episode, we dive deep into the intriguing world of agentic AI with our special guest, Micheal Lanham. Micheal is an expert in the field, with years of experience building powerful agentic systems. Join me as we explore how these systems are transforming our world and discuss the future implications for businesses and individuals alike.

Understanding Agentic AI

To kick off our conversation, Micheal provided clarity on what agentic AI entails. As he explained, an "agent" is an entity with agency - the ability to make decisions and act independently using resources. This stands in contrast to typical assistant workflows, like those you might experience with chatGPT, which require ongoing interaction and approval. An agentic AI system operates autonomously, executing tasks like a digital executive assistant looking after various aspects of our lives such as fraud alerts, financial monitoring, or ensuring we maintain a healthy lifestyle.

The Shift in Software Paradigms

One of the major insights Michael shared was the paradigm shift in software development due to advancements in large language models (LLMs). These models now allow businesses to automate complex workflows without the need for specialized deep learning models. This not only reduces costs but also accelerates development cycles, transforming how companies approach problem-solving and innovation.

Real-World Applications and Challenges

Agentic AI isn't just a theoretical concept; it's being actively integrated into various applications. One fascinating example Michael shared was an agentic workflow involving multiple interconnected agents. From summarizing YouTube transcripts to creating a polished Medium blog post, these systems are proving their capability to handle complex tasks autonomously.

However, challenges remain. Acceptance by the public and legislative bodies is crucial. As Michael put it, governments worldwide need to legislate quickly to harness AI's potential while addressing concerns about safety, copyright, and trustworthiness.

Business Lessons Learned

Through our conversation, several key business lessons emerged:

* Adopt Early, Adapt Quickly: The businesses that thrive will be those that not only adopt agentic AI technologies early but also adapt quickly to its evolving capabilities.

* Streamline Operations: Investing in AI-driven tools can streamline operations, reduce costs, and enhance efficiency in unprecedented ways. It's vital to explore how these technologies can be leveraged within your organization.

* Prepare for Change: As AI technology advances, it will likely change the landscape of various industries. Preparing for these changes now will position your business for future success.

Micheal's Journey and the Future of AI

Micheal's extensive background in AI and game development illuminated the importance of interdisciplinary knowledge. His journey from developing games to exploring deep learning and evolutionary computation was a testament to the unpredictable, yet rewarding, nature of technological innovation.

Looking to the future, Micheal sees agentic AI systems becoming a mainstream part of our ecosystem. Like past technological revolutions, the AI revolution will shift how we work, think, and create, opening new avenues for innovation.

In conclusion, our discussion with Micheal Lanham on agentic AI was insightful and thought-provoking. It's an exciting time in the world of artificial intelligence, and I'm thrilled to share this journey with you. For those eager to explore these topics further, keep an eye out for Micheal's upcoming book on building agentic systems and potentially breaking new ground in AI.

Thank you for tuning in, and I hope you'll join us for future episodes of The HockeyStick Podcast as we continue to explore the forefront of innovation and technology. Cheers to an exciting future powered by AI!

00:00 Introduction to Agentic AI

00:33 The Evolution of AI and Agentic Systems

01:22 Writing a Book on Agentic AI

03:47 The Paradigm Shift in Software Development

07:08 Defining Agentic AI

10:01 The Future of Agentic AI

15:50 Practical Applications and Tools

19:41 Challenges and Considerations

33:00 Reflections on AI and Career

40:36 Conclusion and Future Projects

In Episode 32, I had the pleasure of speaking with Mandy Morris LPC, a seasoned expert in psychology and therapy. Her journey from aspiring athletic trainer to innovative therapist, executive coach and co-creator of the Sofree app sheds light on crucial lessons for both personal and professional growth. We talked about vulnerability, stress, burnout, and how they impact leaders specifically and all individuals alike.

Many is an amazing human being, and I hope you like our episode as much as I did. Enjoy!

The Power of Vulnerability

Our conversation kicked off with an exploration of vulnerability's role in forging meaningful connections. Mandy emphasized that true connection requires vulnerability, and with it comes the inherent risk of being hurt. Yet, this risk is essential for growth in our personal lives and professional relationships. In a world where leaders are often expected to have all the answers, admitting one's struggles can feel daunting. However, embracing vulnerability is not a weakness—it's a strength that can drive leadership success and deeper connections with teams.

Redefining Stress and Burnout

Stress was another significant topic we unpacked. Mandy described stress as an imbalance where demands outweigh resources, leading to an activation of the nervous system. This differentiation from anxiety, which concerns future uncertainties, offers a clearer understanding of workplace dynamics. Our discussion revealed how misunderstandings about stress contribute to burnout, especially in cultures that idolize overwork. As business leaders, recognizing the signs of burnout and addressing them proactively can help maintain healthier work environments and improve productivity.

Business Lessons Learned

From a business perspective, our conversation highlighted several valuable lessons:

* Adopting Emotional Awareness: Emotional intelligence is not just a soft skill; it's a business imperative. Mandy stressed the importance of leaders understanding and managing emotions, both theirs and their teams'. This awareness fosters communication and problem-solving, leading to a more cohesive and effective work environment.

* The Necessity of Asking for Help: Mandy pointed out that one of the biggest self-sabotaging behaviors in leadership is the reluctance to seek help. Good leaders leverage their teams, acknowledging that they cannot—and should not—bear every burden alone. Delegating and collaborating are key to sustainable success.

* Balancing Productivity and Well-being: In a world where the hustle is glamorized, it's vital to distinguish between productive work and compulsive overworking. Recognizing when work is fulfilling versus when it serves as an escape can prevent burnout and promote long-term health and productivity.

The Sofree App: A Game Changer for Stress

One of the most exciting parts of our discussion was Mandy's introduction of the Sofree app. Designed to reset the nervous system within minutes using bilateral stimulation, Sofree aims to provide immediate stress relief, offering a practical tool for anyone overwhelmed by life's demands. This technology exemplifies how innovation can enhance mental well-being and supports the notion that immediate, accessible solutions are crucial in today's fast-paced world.

Closing Thoughts

As we wrapped up the episode, I was struck by the importance of fostering environments—whether in business or at home—that encourage open dialogue about emotions and challenges. Mandy’s insights reaffirmed that being vulnerable and asking for help are not just beneficial but necessary for growth and resilience.

For those who are interested, the Sofree app is set to launch its beta version soon, promising an innovative approach to stress management. As always, I'm grateful for these conversations that inspire change and invite you to share your thoughts and experiences.

Stay curious and keep striving for balance!

Timestamps:

00:00 The Importance of Vulnerability in Connections

01:12 Personal Journey to Becoming a Therapist

02:15 Discovering EMDR and Its Impact

03:49 Executive Psychology Coaching and Writing

04:21 Creating the Sofree App

05:27 The Polarizing Nature of Therapy

08:01 Challenges Faced by Executives and Leaders

23:49 The Impact of the Pandemic on Mental Health

31:46 Understanding Stress and Anxiety

37:04 Introducing the Sofree App and Its Benefits

47:16 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

Welcome to the 31st episode of the HockeyStick Podcast! I'm your host, Miko Pawlikowski, and today we have a conversation filled with insights and anecdotes about entrepreneurship in the tech world. Our guest is none other than Robert Ross, the founder and CEO of FireHydrant, who shares his remarkable journey, experiences, and the business lessons he's learned along the way.

Introduction to Robert Ross

Robert Ross, also known by his online moniker, Bobby Tables. Robert is a software engineer turned entrepreneur who has carved a niche for himself in the complex field of incident management. Through his company, FireHydrant, he has dedicated his work to making chaos management a little less chaotic for tech teams around the globe.

Journey from Idea to Execution

Robert's journey with FireHydrant began in 2017 when he first started coding the project, driven by his frustrations with the manual processes of incident management. It was his entrepreneurial spirit and hard work, coupled with a bit of luck, that led to FireHydrant's inception. He candidly shared his story of early mornings fueled by coffee in New York City cafes, coding before heading to his day job, and the unexpected turn of meeting an investor who believed in his vision.

The Reality of Startup Life

Starting a company is not all smooth sailing, and Robert didn't shy away from discussing the highs and lows of his journey. He emphasized the importance of having a supportive and communicative relationship with investors, which can make all the difference during challenging times. He advised that while capital is crucial, the value of having investors who are aligned with your vision and are genuine partners cannot be overstated.

Business Lessons Learned

One of the key takeaways from our conversation was the importance of understanding your market timing and customer base. According to Robert, building a product for yourself, in hopes others share your problem, is not enough. You need to ask the right questions about your target audience and ensure your solution is addressing their needs. Furthermore, he stressed the necessity of having a clear business plan and the ability to articulate how you plan to generate revenue.

Here are some essential business lessons we discussed:

* Set Deadlines: Give yourself a timeline to achieve certain milestones. If progress stalls, reassess and pivot if necessary.

* Have a Clear Vision and Mission: Know what problem you're solving and ensure you can succinctly communicate this vision to others.

* Identify Your Customer: Define your ideal customer profile. Understanding who would buy your product is crucial for your product's development and marketing strategy.

* Revenue Model: Have a clear understanding of how your company will make money. A path to profitability is crucial, especially in today’s market where funding is more conservative.

* Being Ready for Luck: Luck plays a significant role, but being ready to seize opportunities and make the most of them is even more important.

Looking Ahead

Robert’s vision for FireHydrant is not focused on just an exit strategy, like an IPO or acquisition. Instead, he aims to continually grow the company by delivering a high-quality product that resonates with customers. As he eloquently put it, success will come from hitting roadmap goals and revenue targets, not by aiming explicitly for buyouts or public offerings.

Closing Thoughts

Speaking with Robert was a stark reminder of the myriad of challenges and joys that come with entrepreneurship. It also reaffirmed the importance of facing these challenges with a blend of optimism, preparedness, and the willingness to innovate. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a tech enthusiast, Robert's journey offers valuable insights that can guide you on your own path to success.

Thank you for joining us for this captivating episode of the HockeyStick Podcast. Stay tuned for more enlightening conversations with leaders who are shaping the future of technology and business. Until next time!

Today, we're privileged to explore the fascinating career of Ryan Yockey, a visionary who ventured from early web development to the heights of Super Bowl advertising. Let’s talk about startups, growth, and some major business lessons learned along the way.

Ryan’s journey in numbers:→ 2 companies built past a $1B valuation→ 30+ years in the tech industry→ 100+ engineers led in high-growth corporations→ 100+ inputs incorporated into a proprietary decision tree algorithm→ $1B in annual revenue generated through sales pipelines

From Humble Beginnings to Entrepreneurial Success

Ryan's journey began in 1995, with an oversized book teaching him HTML. Fast forward to 2000, Ryan had already established a web development agency while still in high school. His early career reflects a lesson many budding entrepreneurs might resonate with: Start where you are, with what you have. Gradually building his agency teaches us the significance of leveraging initial skills to create substantial career opportunities.

Navigating the Competitive World of Super Bowl Advertising

A standout episode highlight was Ryan’s experience securing a Super Bowl ad for Farmer’s Dog, a fresh dog food company. Impressively, this opportunity arose from another advertiser dropping out last minute. Preparation met opportunity, and Ryan’s team mastered a Super Bowl-worthy commercial in just three weeks. This narrative underscores the importance of agility in business and being prepared to seize unexpected chances, no matter how daunting they might seem.

Continuous Learning and Unwavering Perseverance

Ryan’s diverse experiences—from scaling e-commerce operations at FabFitFun to tackling nutritional sciences with Habit—illustrate the advantage of remaining a lifelong learner. Ryan’s career is a testament to embracing change and continuously upgrading one’s skill set, proving it's essential to adapt and evolve in the ever-changing business landscape. Another business lesson here is commitment; as Ryan says, stick with a project through its challenges, and over time, you'll outlast competitors. Keep learning and stay curious.

Business Lessons for the Aspiring Entrepreneur

Here are some invaluable business lessons we can glean from Ryan’s journey:

* Jump at Opportunities: Whether it's a sudden chance to advertise during the Super Bowl or acquiring knowledge from an HTML guide, seizing opportunities as they arise is crucial. Waiting too long could mean missing out.

* Face the Hard Problems: Addressing difficult challenges head-on can set you apart. Whether it’s technical scaling in the e-commerce sector or compliance in biotech, hard problems often contain the most growth potential.

* Endure and Evolve: Longevity in a particular field can establish expertise and credibility. It’s often those who persist through challenging phases that experience true breakthroughs.

* Build Relationships: Like Ryan's relationship-building with TV networks for ad placements, nurturing strong professional connections can open doors to unexpected opportunities.

* Leverage Past Experiences: Ryan’s work at Habit in personalized nutrition later influenced his role at Farmer’s Dog. Past projects and experiences can significantly inform and enhance future endeavors.

Looking Forward

Ryan's current focus at Farmer’s Dog and coaching emerging leaders indicates a journey that’s far from over. He’s not just scaling businesses; he’s also imparting wisdom gained from decades of diverse experiences.

As we conclude, let’s take a moment to appreciate the power of perseverance and the excitement of embracing new challenges. Ryan Yockey’s journey showcases the remarkable growth one can achieve by leaning into passion and nurturing it with hard work and strategic thinking.

Thanks for joining us on this enlightening ride. Stay tuned for more episodes where we uncover dynamic stories of entrepreneurial triumphs and the lessons that guide them. Until next time, keep pushing the boundaries!

00:00 The Last-Minute Super Bowl Commercial Opportunity

01:01 Behind the Scenes: Preparing for the Super Bowl Ad

02:38 Technical Challenges and Solutions

05:07 Securing the Super Bowl Ad Spot

07:43 The Farmer's Dog: A Fresh Approach to Dog Food

10:51 From FabFitFun to Farmer's Dog: Scaling E-commerce

17:56 The Habit Experience: Personalized Nutrition

29:03 Early Ventures: DNA Art and Web Development

41:30 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

44:13 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Introduction

Welcome to Episode 29 of the HockeyStick Podcast, where we delve into breakthroughs in tech, business, and personal performance. In this episode, Dominic Vogel shares his transformative journey and the lessons he learned moving beyond the rigid confines of corporate identity.

From Corporate Gargoyle to Passionate Freedom

Dom Vogel candidly recounts his experience of morphing into a "corporate gargoyle," a term he uses to describe the heart of stone that developed within him during his corporate tenure. This transformation, fuelled by burnout, was visible even to his family, who noted the cynicism and misery that seemed to accompany him home.

Gratitude Through Adversity

However, rather than fall into the trap of self-pity, Dom chose gratitude for this period of struggle. It became a catalyst for reconnecting with his passions and a higher version of himself. This phase of introspection set him on a path of self-discovery, leading to the realization of untapped potential and the emergence of different versions of himself that he hadn't previously recognized.

Creating Genuine Connections

Crucial to Dom's journey was the understanding that authenticity and real connections matter far more than perceived realities. This meant stepping beyond the technical domains where he excelled, venturing into a place where technology and human factors intersect.

Communicating and Building Emotional Proximity

For Dom, this new path involved developing strong communication skills and learning to be an empathetic listener. His goal? To captivate and engage audiences beyond technical circles, making discussions around technology both approachable and meaningful to everyone. In his journey, he discovered the value of deep, emotional connections in friendships, which can far surpass the limitations of physical proximity.

Conclusion

Dom Vogel's story on the HockeyStick Podcast is an inspiring reminder that while the tech landscape can be demanding, finding one's true purpose and establishing genuine connections are vital for personal growth. His journey serves as a compelling testament to the power of transformation, empathy, and communication in bridging the gap between technical prowess and human connection. Tune in to learn more about how breakthrough moments in tech, business, and life can change the trajectory of our existence.0:00 The Corporate Gargoyle: A Journey of Burnout and Self-Discovery

1:14 From Corporate Ladder to Entrepreneurial Freedom

2:26 The Evolution of Cyber Leadership and Coaching

4:08 Balancing Professional Passion with Personal Life

5:40 Recognizing and Overcoming Burnout

10:51 The Importance of Humanity in Technology

17:02 Hiring for Empathy and Cultural Enhancement

19:13 Cinematic Scenes and Human Nature

20:13 The Transactional Nature of Modern Relationships

22:36 The Impact of Social Media on Friendships

25:40 Emotional Proximity in the Digital Age

29:14 Transforming Leadership Through Kindness

34:19 The Kindness Project and Final Thoughts

Welcome to episode 28 of the HockeyStick podcast, where we dive into groundbreaking advancements in technology, business, and performance. In this episode, our host Miko Pawlikowski sits down with Bill Mulligan from Isovalent to discuss the fascinating world of eBPF, its impact on modern computing, and its promising future.

Documentary we talk about on YouTube:

Understanding eBPF: Superpowers for Linux

eBPF is a transformative technology, offering superpowers to the Linux operating system and others. Bill Mulligan likens it to what JavaScript brought to the browser, moving from static web pages to interactive, dynamic experiences. eBPF allows us to inject programs into the Linux kernel, enabling real-time interaction and innovation that previously took years to achieve. Brendan Gregg, a key figure in this space, describes eBPF as revolutionizing the pace at which kernel-level innovations can happen.

A Candid Journey with eBPF

Bill shares his personal journey into the world of eBPF, from writing his own job description for his role at Isovalent to navigating the complexities of Linux internals. His path is an inspiring story of serendipity and strategic career moves, ultimately leading him to be part of a transformative technological wave.

The Enabling Power of eBPF

eBPF extends its benefits beyond networking. It empowers developers with faster networking, enhanced observability, and improved security. A key innovation in eBPF is the verifier, ensuring that any programs loaded are safe and performant, protecting the kernel's integrity—a crucial feature emphasized in large-scale deployments.

Inspiring Stories of Innovation

The eBPF documentary captures the journey from its inception to its current state as a critical force in open-source and enterprise computing. Mulligan highlights the collaborative nature of the open-source community, where brilliant minds like Daniel Borkman, Alexi, and Brendan Gregg worked together to reshape the possibilities within kernel programming.

The Future of eBPF and Its Ecosystem

Looking ahead, eBPF continues to evolve, with exciting developments around integrating with GPUs and DPUs, highlighting its potential beyond traditional computing environments. This flexibility is what makes eBPF a crucial tool in the growing world of distributed computing and AI.

One of eBPF's significant ongoing projects is Cilium, an open-source networking layer that leverages eBPF to provide robust networking and security solutions. Cilium's growth and adoption by major cloud providers highlight its importance in modern cloud-native architectures.

Personal Reflections on Technology’s Impact

Bill Mulligan emphasizes the balance between technological pursuits and personal passions. As an avid surfer and a bike-packing enthusiast, he reflects on how advances in technology, like eBPF, enhance daily life by building better foundational systems, highlighting the intersection of tech and lifestyle.

Conclusion

The conversation leaves listeners with an appreciation for eBPF's potential to redefine performance and security in operating systems. With its ability to provide programmability and flexibility at the operating system level, eBPF is set to be a cornerstone in the next generation of computing innovations. For those just beginning their journey into eBPF, resources abound, from beginner-friendly guides to community contributions, enabling everyone to explore, learn, and innovate using this transformative technology.

Keep an eye on future developments, as the intersection of eBPF with emerging tech trends promises exciting changes ahead. As we continue to explore these technological advancements, HockeyStick remains your go-to podcast for insights into breakthrough technology and performance.

00:00 Introduction to eBPF: Superpowers for Linux

00:47 Bill Mulligan's Journey to eBPF

07:25 Understanding eBPF's Impact and Potential

17:31 The eBPF Documentary and Community

22:00 Key Figures Behind eBPF

24:25 The Power of Open Source Collaboration

25:28 The Ultimate Trojan Horse: eBPF's Journey

26:13 Getting Started with eBPF

27:15 Exploring eBPF Resources and Community

30:25 eBPF Summit and Conferences

32:32 Cilium: The Leading eBPF Project

36:53 Microsoft's eBPF Initiative

39:21 The Future of eBPF and Cilium

45:13 Personal Reflections and Future Excitement

46:47 The Story Behind the eBPF Logo

Welcome to Episode 27 of the HockeyStick podcast—your guide to breakthroughs in tech, business, and performance. In this edition, we dive deep into the dynamic world of quantum computing with Constantin Gonciulea and Charlee Stefanski, exploring why this pioneering technology is captivating minds across industries.

Get Constantin and Charlee's book 45% off with code hockeystick24 at https://www.manning.com/books/building-quantum-software

The Promise and FOMO of Quantum Computing

The allure of quantum computing stems largely from its promise and the fear of missing out. As Constantin succinctly put it, "It's because of the promise and the fear of missing out mainly, right?" In a field where being an early adopter can establish leadership, banks and other institutions are keenly observing quantum computing's potential to revolutionize operations and problem-solving.

Unveiling Quantum Mysteries: A Different Approach

Joining us, Charlee Stefanski shared her unique journey into the quantum space, emphasizing the different, less traditional pathway she took, building her experience on-the-job at Wells Fargo. Quantum computing, much like the transition from toy problems of classical computing in the 1940s to widespread use, presents a parallel journey. As Constantin iterated, being "quantum ready" when large-scale production becomes feasible is essential.

Practical Steps into the Quantum Realm

Miko Pawlikowski, our host, navigated the discussion towards practical applications and the current state of quantum technology. Although real quantum computers are not yet in full production capacity, partnerships with giants like IBM allow access to cutting-edge quantum machines. Quantum computing today is more of a sophisticated, albeit expensive, academic exercise than a day-to-day operational tool—an understanding echoed by Constantin.

Demystifying Quantum Basics: The Role of Education

Charlee and Constantin's recent book, aimed at developers and those curious about quantum computing, simplifies quantum concepts to approachable levels. They elucidate on core ideas, focusing on hands-on learning with Python and Rust simulators. Set to be released early next year, their book caters to both freshmen and seasoned developers looking to dip their toes in the quantum waters.

Quantum Foundations and Innovations

The core of understanding quantum computing lies in its foundational principles—the quantum state, measurement, and what Constantin refers to as the "butterfly pattern". Charlee explained how the book guides readers through these basics before delving into complex algorithms like Grover’s optimizer and other transformative quantum procedures.

A Future of Quantum Curiosity

Upon closing the discussion, a tantalizing question was posed: Should software engineers invest their time in exploring quantum computing? The consensus? Jump in if it piques your interest. With cloud-based quantum resources becoming more accessible, the barriers are as much about curiosity and initiative as they are about technology itself.

Exploring Further

For those eager to learn more, Constantin and Charlee recommend visiting learnqc.com for resources, simulators, and more insights into their work.

Thank you for tuning in to this enlightening episode of the HockeyStick podcast. As technology evolves, so do our conversations surrounding breakthroughs, challenging us to think beyond the conventional.

Stay curious, and catch us next time for more on tech, business, and performance innovation.

00:00 Introduction to Quantum Computing Hype

00:39 Meet the Experts: Constantine and Charlee

00:43 Journey into Quantum Computing

01:41 Why Banks are Investing in Quantum Computing

02:28 Current Applications and Limitations

03:05 Understanding Quantum Computing Fundamentals

04:38 Quantum Parallelism and Measurement

06:14 Availability and Practicality of Quantum Computers

07:24 Developing Quantum Software

11:38 Writing the Book: Building Quantum Software

14:39 Foundations of Quantum Programming

25:46 Core Algorithms and Patterns

34:39 Future of Quantum Computing and Accessibility

37:42 Conclusion and Resources

Welcome to Episode 26 of the HockeyStick podcast, a show dedicated to exploring breakthroughs in tech, business, and performance. In this episode, we dive deep into the intersection of artificial intelligence, statistics, and causality with Robert Osazuwa Ness, a statistician and data scientist who offers fascinating insights into these fields.

Get Robert’s book “Causal AI” 45% off with code hockeystick24 at https://www.manning.com/books/causal-ai

Discovering Causality and Language Models

Robert Osazuwa Ness shares his unique journey that brought him to the forefront of causality in machine learning. Initially driven by interests in development economics and fieldwork in Tibet, Robert eventually found his passion in statistics, pivoting from logistics to numbers. His story is a testament to how unexpected transitions can lead to impactful contributions in scientific fields.

Throughout the conversation, Ness tackles the complex elements of causal AI and counterfactual reasoning, explaining how these concepts contribute to the development of intelligent systems. He recounts how a significant influence came from working in neural networks and graphical models, areas where systems biology and statistical proteomics intersect with artificial intelligence.

Causal AI: Bridging Diverse Disciplines

Robert emphasizes that causal AI is a breakthrough in the realm of data science and machine learning. He notes that knowledge from diverse fields such as econometrics, public health, and statistics combines to address complex problems in AI. Ness believes that causal AI could transform the way we approach machine learning frameworks, making models not just reactive but proactive in understanding causal relationships.

During the episode, Robert highlights his upcoming book, "Causal AI," a practical guide aimed at data scientists eager to grasp causal data science using familiar tools like PyTorch. This book targets professionals who wish to manage or build causality-driven applications, making it an essential resource for those navigating the expansive field of AI.

Navigating Next-Gen AI Challenges

Robert and host Miko Pawlikowski delve into the potential for AI to emulate human inference processes, using examples like a Robobutler capable of assessing emotional cues. The conversation underscores the challenges of developing AI systems that align with human norms and values. They discuss the intricacies of translating causal inference methods into actionable insights for intelligent agents.

While Robert acknowledges the current challenges within causal AI, he remains optimistic about advancements in the field. Future breakthroughs, he argues, lie in granting intelligent agents the ability to not only understand but also intervene and experiment within their environments—a key step towards achieving more human-like comprehension and problem-solving abilities.

Future Vision and Takeaways

As the episode draws to a close, Robert Osazuwa Ness shares his forward-looking views on integrating causal inference into AI and machine learning practice. He envisions a future where intelligent agents can autonomously collect data, hypothesize, and analyze, mirroring human scientific inquiry.

For those keen on exploring the depths of causal AI and its practical applications, Robert’s book promises to be a comprehensive and invaluable guide. Aspiring data scientists and AI enthusiasts can look forward to a resource that not only simplifies complex concepts but also equips them to implement cutting-edge models.

Be sure to check out "Causal AI" on Manning.com. This episode serves as a rich primer on the importance of causality in AI, showcased through Robert’s expert perspective and the exciting prospects of his ongoing research.

Thank you for tuning into this episode of the HockeyStick podcast. Stay tuned for more discussions on groundbreaking technologies, innovative business strategies, and peak performance insights.

0:00 Introduction

1:07 Balancing Personal Life and Work

1:20 Zombie Fungus and Economics Field Work

1:35 Transition to Statistics and Machine Learning

3:49 Causal Machine Learning and Research Interests

5:52 Popular Workshops and Upcoming Book

17:02 Exploring AI, Norms, and Legalities

27:25 Future of Causal AI and Embodied AI

29:17 Concluding Thoughts and Future Work

Introduction

Welcome to episode 25 of the HockeyStick podcast, where we delve into breakthroughs in tech, business, and performance.

In today's episode, Miko Pawlikowski sits down with Kolton Andrus, a well-known figure in the SRE and chaos engineering space. As the founder of Gremlin and a seasoned engineer, Kolton shares his insights into the evolution of chaos engineering, the challenges it faces, and his thoughts on the future of the industry.

The Journey of Chaos Engineering

Kolton Andrus begins by discussing the foundational ideas of chaos engineering. "It's about taming the chaos," he explains. The primary goal is to find system edges and handle them efficiently, ensuring reliability. Kolton emphasizes that organizations should invest in reliability as it is often a multimillion-dollar problem.

Shifting Roles at Gremlin

Kolton moved from being the CEO to the CTO of Gremlin. "It's been a journey," he reflects, noting that he felt his talents were best served in a technical role. This shift allowed him to work on product development and address the problems within chaos engineering more thoroughly.

The Importance of Chaos Engineering

Chaos engineering is an emotional topic for many SREs, like Miko Pawlikowski. It deals with intentionally injecting failures to test system resilience. Kolton highlights that the engineering part is crucial, "because whenever you tell someone I do chaos engineering, they think you're the joker… And that's the mistake."

The Branding Dilemma

While the concept and technique of chaos engineering are sound, its branding remains a challenge. The term "chaos" doesn't sit well with corporate executives. Kolton shares that although they leaned into the fun branding with Gremlin, it sometimes backfired. Executives want maturity and reliability, not something perceived as "immature."

Marketing and Acceptance

Marketing has always played a significant role in the adoption of chaos engineering. Many organizations found the name off-putting. Kolton notes that reliability engineering or resilience engineering might be better terms. The focus is on explaining to the stakeholders the benefits and necessity of adopting such practices.

Gamification in Engineering

One of the challenges in chaos engineering is getting organizations to adopt it systematically. Kolton mentions creating a rubric and scoring system for services, helping teams see their progress. "If you want people to do the right thing, you need to make it easy," he asserts.

The Evolving Landscape

Kolton acknowledges that the gaming industry, despite its need for reliable systems, often lags in adopting such practices. He points out that people are generally resistant to changes, especially when they seem complex or unnecessary.

Lessons Learned and Future Prospects

Over the eight years of Gremlin's journey, Kolton has faced numerous ups and downs. From being told they had product-market fit to being told they did not during the pandemic, it has been a learning experience. "It's super hard when it's your baby," Kolton admits, but the key is to keep iterating and improving.

Intelligent Health Checks

Gremlin's latest features focus on intelligent health checks, enabling even those without robust monitoring systems to understand their system's health. "How do we take the expertise that me and a lot of the engineers on my team have learned…and embed it into the product?" Kolton asks.

AI in Reliability

The conversation also touches on the role of AI in reliability engineering. Kolton is skeptical about the current AI capabilities. He believes AI can assist in guidance and analysis but cannot replace the need for deterministic solutions in complex distributed systems.

Kolton's Philosophy

Kolton's closing thoughts are reflective and grounded. He advocates for incremental improvements, "do a little better every day." This philosophy, he believes, applies not only to engineering but also to personal development.

Conclusion

Kolton Andrus's journey through chaos engineering and reliability offers valuable insights for anyone in the tech industry. His experiences underscore the importance of resilience, not just in systems but also in navigating the challenges of innovation and acceptance. Tune in to the full episode for an in-depth discussion on the future of chaos engineering and much more.

00:00 Introduction to Chaos Engineering

01:07 About Kolton Andrus

01:25 The Journey of Gremlin

02:01 The Evolution of Chaos Engineering

04:55 Challenges and Misconceptions

11:20 Real-World Examples and Impact

17:08 The Future of Chaos Engineering

21:04 The Expert vs. The Easy Button

21:19 Aligning Incentives for Reliability

22:51 Scoring and Gamification in Reliability

25:25 Industry Adoption and Challenges

28:02 The Human Element in Reliability Engineering

30:44 Reflections on Gremlin's Journey

35:04 Future Directions and AI in Reliability

41:44 Final Thoughts and Philosophy

Welcome to Episode 51 of The HockeyStick Show. I’m Miko Pawlikowski, and this week I sat down with Tommy Breedlove (the author of the book “Legendary”) to talk about the long road from survival mode to self-worth, and how money, identity, and purpose get tangled together along the way.

Tommy shared his personal story, from growing up around addiction and incarceration to building a successful career, losing himself inside of it, and ultimately redefining what “success” actually means. The conversation moved fluidly between money, masculinity, relationships, and the quiet damage caused by chasing external validation.

Money, Identity, and the Cost of Approval

Tommy started by unpacking how early trauma and instability shape our relationship with achievement. For him, success became a shield. Money, status, and performance were ways to feel safe, respected, and untouchable.

He explained how this pattern shows up for many high performers, especially in tech and business. On the surface, things look great. Underneath, there is burnout, resentment, and a constant fear of being exposed. The more approval you chase, the more expensive it becomes to maintain the image.

When Net Worth Becomes Self-Worth

We spent time digging into how money quietly becomes a proxy for value. Tommy talked about how easy it is to confuse financial success with identity, and how that mindset erodes relationships, health, and joy over time.

He challenged the idea that more is ever enough when the underlying wound is unresolved. Without self-respect, success only amplifies insecurity. With it, money becomes a tool instead of a scoreboard.

Redefining Success on Your Own Terms

The conversation shifted toward what it actually takes to step off the treadmill. Tommy described slowing down, setting boundaries, and getting honest about what you want rather than what you think you should want.

That process often involves hard tradeoffs. Letting go of roles, relationships, and expectations that no longer fit. Learning how to say no. Building a life that feels aligned, even if it looks smaller from the outside.

At its core, this episode was about sustainability at a human level. How to build a career without losing yourself. How to pursue ambition without outsourcing your self-worth. And what success looks like when nobody is watching.

Thanks for listening!

Welcome to Episode 24 of The HockeyStick podcast, where we delve into breakthroughs in tech, business, and performance. In this episode, our host Miko Pawlikowski sits down with Emmanuel Maggiori, an AI consultant, writer, and speaker who is on a mission to debunk much of the hype surrounding tech and AI. They explore the triumphs, challenges, and sometimes the dark side of AI and tech innovation. Read on to get insights from their engaging conversation.

Behind Every Successful AI Project

Emmanuel Maggiori notes that for every successful AI project, there are about 20 that fail. Using the infamous startup Juicero as an example, Emmanuel emphasizes how the hype surrounding AI often overshadows its limitations. Juicero, which created an exorbitantly priced juice machine, is a testament to the dangers of tech hype.

The Realities of AI Hype and Failures

One aspect that Emmanuel draws attention to is the common oversight in the AI industry: AI's mistakes, or "hallucinations," are not quick fixes. Engineers are often distracted by the allure of solving non-existent problems while ignoring tangible issues. For instance, despite millions of dollars in investment and vast talent, industries like self-driving cars have not lived up to promises, leading to their decline.

The AI Bubble Will Burst

Miko brings up Emmanuel’s book, "Smart Until It's Dumb: Why Artificial Intelligence Keeps Making Big Mistakes and Why the AI Bubble Will Burst." Rather than sugarcoating AI’s potential, Emmanuel emphasizes the cyclical nature of tech hype, comparing the AI bubble to blockchain and other overhyped technologies. The fascination with creating machine intelligence often overshadows practical, user-friendly applications.

Human-Centric Innovation

A critical point that Emmanuel circles back to is the necessity of focusing on real customer needs, instead of developing technology for technology's sake. He uses the example of Amazon’s AI-based supermarkets, which aimed to eliminate checkout lines but ultimately failed technically and commercially. This tech-first approach led to a solution that nobody truly needed.

AI in Daily Lives

Despite the setbacks and hype, Emmanuel and Miko agree that AI has found meaningful applications in daily life. Applications with low stakes, like hotel review translations and e-commerce recommendations, have seen successful AI integrations. Furthermore, tools like ChatGPT have become valuable assistants, helping people with coding or improving their written English.

Pitfalls in Tech Investment

Addressing the darker sides of the industry, Emmanuel shares insights from his book "Siliconned," which delves into the pitfalls of tech investment driven by hype rather than substance. Low interest rates and the abundance of venture capital have led to misallocated resources, culminating in projects that add little value, exemplified by companies like Juicero and WeWork.

The Role of Cheap Money

Emmanuel expounds on how cheap money has led to a proliferation of startups and tech projects often lacking real value. He provides a detailed analysis of how economic policies, such as low interest rates and venture capital structures, contribute to this phenomenon. This influx of money has driven the incessant need to hype products and technologies, often resulting in companies that prioritize appearances over actual utility.

Looking to the Future

As the conversation draws to a close, Miko asks Emmanuel to put on his futurist hat. Emmanuel predicts that while AI will certainly become a tool we use increasingly in our daily lives, it’s unlikely to be as transformational as initial internet adoption. He foresees that many commercial AI applications will fall short of expectations due to persistent issues like hallucinations. However, he acknowledges the potential for cost optimizations that could make AI more accessible and efficient.

Conclusion

Episode 24 provides a realistic lens through which to view the promises and pitfalls of AI and tech innovation. Emmanuel Maggiori’s grounded insights serve as a reminder to temper our expectations and focus on real problems that need solving. For those interested in digging deeper, his books "Smart Until It's Dumb" and "Siliconned" are essential reads.

Stay tuned for more fascinating discussions on The HockeyStick podcast, where we continue to explore the fulcrum points of tech, business, and performance.

0:00 Intro

1:05 Introducing Emmanuel Maggiori and His Book

2:38 The AI Hype Cycle: Past and Present

5:07 The Practical Uses and Limitations of AI

6:18 The Fascination and Misconceptions About AI

9:38 The Amazon Go Experiment

14:05 AI Winters: A Brief History

18:04 The Misleading Success of AI in Games

23:31 The Challenges of AI in Real-World Applications

44:54 Human vs. AI: The Ethical Dilemma

46:16 Elon Musk and the Hype of Self-Driving Cars

48:38 The Economics of Hype: Tesla, WeWork, and Beyond

53:45 The Dark Side of AI: Shady Practices and Fake Solutions

01:07:46 The Impact of Cheap Money on Tech Innovation

01:12:26 Future Predictions: AI's Role and Economic Theories

01:26:44 Conclusion and Upcoming Projects

Welcome to episode 23 of the HockeyStick podcast, where we dive into groundbreaking advancements in technology, business, and performance. In this episode, host Miko Pawlikowski sits down with Ravi Ramachandran and Dave Brewster, two-thirds of the co-founder team at Eidolon AI, to discuss the intricacies of AI agents and their potential to transform industries.

What is an AI Agent?

Kicking off the discussion, Miko asks, "What the hell is an AI agent?" Dave Brewster elucidates that an AI agent is essentially the smallest atomic unit capable of providing an autonomous answer. These agents can range from complex systems that debug code to simple tools that search documents. At the heart of their definition lies the element of autonomy—a pivotal characteristic that distinguishes these agents.

The Trust Issue

Miko raises an important concern about trust, given that even advanced AI models like ChatGPT sometimes "make things up." Dave explains that trustworthy AI agents need built-in fault tolerance. He points to Claude as an example of an AI that internally checks its processes, ensuring reliability. For enterprises, trust also extends to data governance, ensuring that sensitive information remains secure.

Market Maturity and Observability

Ravi sheds light on market maturity, explaining that apprehensions often stem from the evolving nature of technology. Miko elaborates on the limitations he faces as a software engineer, particularly the limited observability within LLM (Large Language Models). Dave acknowledges this challenge, emphasizing the need for multi-query, fault-tolerant systems that can better manage and debug AI outputs.

Building Practical AI Agents

When asked about their unique selling proposition at Eidolon AI, Ravi and Dave stress the importance of practical deployment. They describe their AI agent server, which focuses on easy integration and management using Kubernetes. By leveraging Kubernetes, the team ensures scalability, security, and seamless integration with existing infrastructures.

Real-World Applications

Miko presents a hypothetical yet practical use case: an AI agent that could analyze Slack history to gauge the need for a coffee break, estimate work hours, and notify his wife via text. Dave responds affirmatively but notes that while they don't have a Slack loader or text capability, integrating services like Twilio would be straightforward.

Production Use Cases

Dave shares real-world applications where AI agents have already made a significant impact, such as acting as API gateways to simplify calling multiple endpoints or using AI to detect fraudulent insurance claims. These use cases highlight the versatility and potential of AI agents in day-to-day operations and specific enterprise needs.

The Future of AI: Memory and Beyond

Dave and Ravi delve into the future, pointing to the compelling concept of adding memory to AI agents. Memory would allow agents to learn and adjust based on past interactions, dramatically enhancing their utility. This advancement could revolutionize everything from personal productivity tools to complex enterprise solutions.

Ethical Considerations

The conversation takes a philosophical turn as Miko and Dave discuss the ethical implications of AI and potential misuse. Dave stresses that while AI can enhance productivity, it's crucial to use these advancements responsibly to avoid dystopian outcomes.

Open Source and Community Engagement

Ravi emphasizes Eidolon's commitment to making AI accessible to everyone. This open-source philosophy extends to their working structure, where daily standups are open to public participation, fostering a transparent and collaborative environment.

Conclusion

In this enlightening episode, Ravi and Dave offer a nuanced perspective on the current state and future of AI agents. As they continue to push the boundaries of what's possible, their work at Eidolon AI stands as a testament to innovation, collaboration, and responsible technology development.

If you're intrigued by the possibilities AI agents present and how they can revolutionize both your personal and professional life, tune in to the full episode of the HockeyStick podcast. You won't want to miss the insights from these pioneers in the AI industry.

0:00 Introduction to AI Agents

0:38 Meet the Founders of Eidolon AI

0:59 Defining AI Agents

2:05 Challenges and Trust in AI Agents

7:54 Eidolon AI's Unique Approach

8:42 Building and Deploying AI Agents

16:54 Use Cases and Practical Applications

25:31 Autonomous LLM Use Cases in Insurance

26:49 Future of LLMs: Memory and Context

27:17 Challenges and Opportunities with LLM Toolkits

29:04 Integrating Memory into LLM Systems

30:40 Real-World Applications and Ethical Concerns

32:49 Advancements in LLM Memory Research

34:59 Future Breakthroughs and Practical Implementations

43:25 Building Open and Accessible AI

46:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In the bustling world of corporate finance, one might not expect to find an expert in life and performance coaching. Yet, Ravi Modha seamlessly balances both professions.

As a full-time corporate finance professional, Ravi has navigated the intricate corridors of investment banking in London and New York, and currently works with Apollo Global’s high-grade capital solutions team.

But that's just one side of his story. Ravi is also a dedicated life and performance coach, helping professionals like himself reach their full potential by managing stress and fostering sustainable growth in both personal and career domains.

The Duality of Work and Life

Miko Pawlikowski opens the conversation by posing a question many are curious about: “Ravi, how are you doing both of these things at the same time?”

Ravi’s response brings to light the transformative power of the Wim Hof Method, which combines breathwork, cold exposure, and a committed mindset. Ravi explains, “The Wim Hof method has really helped me enhance my daily life energy, my limiting beliefs, and my reconditioning of where I wanted to push my life.”

Mindset Over Matter

For Ravi, the method is not just a tool for physical adaptation but also a profound psychological game-changer. He mentions how integrating these practices into his routine has provided him a competitive edge without the clash of competing priorities. “It’s about creating the right tools and mindsets to build capacity and capability.”

The Wim Hof Method Explained

Miko delves deeper, asking Ravi to summarize the essence of the Wim Hof Method. Ravi aptly encapsulates it as “a natural path to a more optimal state of mind and body,” aimed at igniting the inner power within us all. He elaborates on how modern life has numbed our body's innate stress responses due to constant, comfortable environments, and how the Wim Hof Method helps reawaken these responses.

Science-Backed Benefits

For those skeptical about such methods, Ravi brings robust scientific backing to the table. Studies, including one from 2014, demonstrate how controlled breathing techniques can activate the sympathetic nervous system, improve stress resilience, and enhance immune responses. Another study from 2016 highlights the health benefits of cold showers, including increased energy, better blood circulation, and boosted immune function through white blood cell count.

Practical Applications: A Breathing Demo

One of the highlights of the conversation is Ravi guiding Miko and his audience through a breathing exercise from the Wim Hof Method. He emphasizes the importance of a safe, comfortable setting and explains the steps meticulously. Experiencing the breathing exercise leads to an eye-opening realization for Miko about the ease of breath-holding and the subsequent feeling of zen and relaxation.

Incorporating Breathing and Cold Exposure

Ravi recommends integrating these practices into one's daily routine. He practices breathwork every morning, often followed by cold exposure to start the day with enhanced energy and reduced stress. He also uses breathwork as a tool for acute stress management before important meetings or presentations.

Building Resilience and Mindfulness

The third pillar, mindset, underpins the other two practices. Ravi speaks about the immense benefits of developing willpower, resilience, and mindfulness through these methods. He advocates for a gradual introduction to cold exposure, starting with short bursts of cold water at the end of a hot shower, gradually building up tolerance.

Personal Transformation and Professional Growth

Sharing his personal journey, Ravi recounts how a significant heartbreak led him to discover the Wim Hof Method, which catalyzed a profound personal transformation. This change rekindled his relationship, culminating in marriage, and inspired him to pursue a coaching career. His story is a testament to the transformative power of combining breathwork, cold exposure, and a positive mindset.

Finding Ravi Modha

For those interested in experiencing these benefits, Ravi is based in London and offers one-on-one coaching, workshops, and retreats across the UK. He shares valuable insights and content on breath and cold exposure, as well as mindset training on LinkedIn, making it a great place to connect with him and learn more.

Conclusion

Ravi Modha’s unique blend of corporate finance expertise and life coaching skills offers an inspiring example of how integrating holistic practices into our lives can lead to profound personal and professional growth. Whether through breathwork, cold exposure, or cultivating a resilient mindset, Ravi’s story encourages us all to explore our potential and embrace a more balanced, fulfilling life.

Thank you for joining us in this exploration. Be sure to connect with Ravi Modha on LinkedIn and give these transformative practices a try!

Resources

Wim Hof method science explained

Effects of voluntary hyperventilation on glucose, free fatty acids and several glucostatic hormones

The Effect of Cold Showering on Health and Work: A Randomized Controlled Trial

The Effect of Diaphragmatic Breathing on Attention, Negative Affect and Stress in Healthy Adults

Wim Hof Method Guided Breathing for Beginners (3 Rounds Slow Pace) - YouTube

Timestamps

0:00 Introduction

0:49 Ravi's Dual Life: Corporate and Coaching

1:44 Discovering the Wim Hof Method

6:39 The Science Behind Cold Exposure

17:25 Breathing Techniques: A Game Changer

19:23 Guided Wim Hof Breathing Exercise

27:00 Guided Breathing Exercise

28:31 Post-Breathing Reflections

29:16 Breathwork and Stress Management

33:10 Integrating Cold Exposure

34:31 Mindset and Willpower

36:27 Building Resilience and Habits

43:38 Starting Cold Showers

46:51 Personal Journey and Coaching

51:59 Conclusion and Contact Information

In this episode, Miko Pawlikowski converses with Shelley, an experienced Lead Developer and author, about the journey and responsibilities of a lead developer. Shelley discusses her book, which covers her own mistakes and lessons learned in leadership, explaining the difference between lead engineer, staff engineer, and engineering manager roles. She emphasizes the importance of people skills, delegation, managing technical debt, and mentoring junior developers. Shelley shares a compelling story about scaling the Johns Hopkins hospital website during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the pressures and rewards of the role. The episode also touches on career progression, imposter syndrome, and the value of hiring junior developers.

0:00 Introduction: The Path to Lead Engineer

1:15 The Role of a Lead Engineer

4:59 Daily Life of a Lead Engineer

6:14 Challenges and Success Stories

11:05 Career Trajectories in Tech

19:45 Imposter Syndrome and Confidence

30:38 Mentoring and Training

34:39 Writing the Book: A Unique Resource

38:23 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Mastering MLOps with Maria: Insights and Future Trends

Join us for an in-depth conversation with Maria, a leading expert in MLOps, as she shares her journey and insights into the world of machine learning operations. Maria discusses the common misconceptions about MLOps, the integration of DevOps practices, and the tools and frameworks that have shaped her career. Discover her unique approach to MLOps, the challenges faced by data science teams, and the evolution of the field. Maria also introduces her new course on MLOps with Databricks, aimed at helping practitioners deepen their skills. Don't miss this episode for valuable advice and a peek into the future of MLOps!

0:00 Intro

0:31 Marvel and Lego: A Personal Touch

1:12 Journey into MLOps

02:09 The Evolution of MLOps

04:38 Challenges and Best Practices in MLOps

06:38 MLOps vs. DevOps

08:10 LLM Monitoring and Prompt Engineering

10:02 Advice for MLOps Practitioners

13:15 Marvelous MLOps: The Blog and Course

17:53 Final Thoughts and Career Advice

19:21 Conclusion and Farewell

Harpreet Sahota on Becoming a Hacker in Residence & AI Innovation: Chat with Miko Pawlikowski

Join Miko Pawlikowski on HockeyStick as he interviews Harpreet Sahota, Voxel51's Hacker in Residence and a prominent figure in the AI community. Harpreet shares his journey from studying math and stats to becoming a biostatistician and data scientist, eventually taking on his current role. They discuss what it means to be a Hacker in Residence, the importance of Voxel51's open-source library in the AI industry, and Harpreet's upcoming book on Practical Retrieval Augmentation Generation. Harpreet also delves into his experiences with LinkedIn courses, his extensive podcasting history, and advice for aspiring AI professionals. Tune in to learn about the intricate balance of responsibilities in Harpreet's role, from creating educational content to exploring novel AI applications.

00:00 Meet Harpreet Sahota: Hacker in Residence

01:25 Role and Responsibilities at Voxel51

04:59 Journey to Becoming a Hacker in Residence

10:44 Challenges and Rewards of the Role

15:07 Writing a Book on Retrieval Augmented Generation

23:12 Creating LinkedIn Learning Courses

28:17 Balancing Work and Family Life

28:42 Recording Courses from Home

28:56 Choosing Not to Be On-Screen

29:23 Writing and Newsletters

31:07 Industry Events and Conferences

35:00 Traveling for Work

36:10 The Harpreet Podcast

41:59 Future Plans and Building a Dream House

44:25 Final Thoughts and Reflections

45:33 Advice for Aspiring Professionals

Simplifying Algorithms with Vadim Smolyakov!

Get Vadim's book 45% OFF with code hockeystick24 here: https://mng.bz/4J5Q

Join Miko Pawlikowski on HockeyStick as he discusses machine learning algorithms with Vadim Smolyakov, author of 'Machine Learning Algorithms in Depth.' They explore Vadim's experiences at MIT CSAIL, his work at Microsoft, and key machine learning concepts like Bayesian nonparametrics, decision trees, and Markov chain Monte Carlo methods. Vadim also shares insights on his book, the challenges in implementing ML algorithms, and predictions about the future of AI. This episode is perfect for intermediate learners and those new to machine learning.

0:00 Guest Introduction: Vadim Smolyakov

00:48 MIT CSAIL Experience

01:28 Bayesian Inference and Non-Parametrics

02:30 Vadim's Work at Microsoft

03:14 The Origin of Vadim's Book

06:41 Target Audience for the Book

08:04 Explaining Bayesian Algorithms

15:57 Supervised vs Unsupervised Learning

19:22 Decision Trees and Random Forests

24:42 Challenges in Implementing ML Algorithms

31:32 Top Machine Learning Algorithms

45:27 Future of AI and ML

50:31 Conclusion and Farewell

Matt Carey's AI Journey: From Windsurfing to London’s AI Meetups

Join Miko Pawlikowski on HockeyStick as he chats with Matt Carey, an AI engineer at StackOne, AWS Community Builder, organizer of AI Demo Days, and OpenUK AI Advisory Board member. In this episode, Matt shares his unique path from competitive windsurfing to AI engineering, the challenges of transitioning from outdoor sports to indoor coding, and his passion for building a strong AI community in London. They delve into the vibrant AI scene in London, the importance of open-source advocacy, and the exciting innovations happening in Web AI and browser-based LLMs. Matt provides insights into his work with StackOne and offers advice for aspiring AI engineers and startup enthusiasts.

0:00 Introduction to the Episode

0:39 Matt Carey's Windsurfing Journey

1:58 Transition from Windsurfing to AI

4:34 AI Scene in London

5:21 AI Demo Days and Meetups

10:42 AWS Community Builder Experience

14:58 OpenUK AI Advisory Board

18:02 Exciting Innovations in the London Startup Scene

25:51 Navigating Funding and Incubators in London

26:30 Influential Figures and Cool Projects to Follow

28:56 The Role of AI Engineers at StackOne

33:09 The Fun and Chaos of Tech Twitter

Exploring Quantum Computing with Johan Vos!

Get Johan's book 45% OFF with code hockeystick24 here: https://mng.bz/v8da

Join Miko Pawlikowski on HockeyStick as he delves into the fascinating world of quantum computing with Johan Vos, author of "Quantum Computing in Action" and co-founder of Gluon. Discover what makes quantum computing special, its implications for future technology, potential impacts on security, and how to future-proof your career in a quantum-driven world. Johan explains complex concepts like superposition and entanglement in simple terms and discusses real-world applications and the future of quantum hardware. Don't miss this comprehensive guide to understanding the next big leap in computing!

0:00 What Makes Quantum Computing Special?

1:49 Quantum Computing vs Classical Computing

4:17 Real-World Applications of Quantum Computing

6:25 Understanding Qubits and Superposition

10:02 Quantum Entanglement Explained

13:54 Quantum Computing Hardware and Simulators

26:06 Programming Quantum Computers

42:38 Future of Quantum Computing

48:00 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Think Like a Software Engineering Manager - insights with Akanksha Gupta

Get her book 45% OFF with code hockeystick24 here: https://mng.bz/v8va

Join Miko Pawlikowski on this episode of HockeyStick as he delves into the world of software engineering management with Akanksha Gupta, author of "Think Like a Software Engineering Manager". Explore Akanksha's journey from software engineer to engineering manager and gather valuable insights on making the transition, thriving in the role, and avoiding common pitfalls. Learn about essential skills such as delegation, career discussions, and maintaining team morale, along with practical strategies for hiring, managing attrition, and personal growth.

0:00 Intro

0:24 Meet Akanksha Gupta: Author and Engineering Manager

1:09 The Journey from Engineer to Manager

1:34 Writing the Book: Inspiration and Challenges

4:31 Deciding to Transition: Promotion vs. Lateral Move

9:09 Navigating the People Aspect of Management

15:19 Key Traits of a Good Engineering Manager

34:52 Continuous Learning and Self-Growth

40:00 Final Advice for Aspiring Engineering Managers

Welcome to Episode 50 of The HockeyStick Show. I’m Miko Pawlikowski, and this week I sat down with Peter Farkas to dig into the messy reality of modern infrastructure, open source licensing, and what really happens when companies try to protect their products from hyperscalers.

We walked through his recent LinkedIn post, the story behind it, the unintended consequences of “defensive licensing,” and what the future might look like for teams trying to build sustainable businesses on top of open source.

Cloud Providers, Open Source, and the Licensing Squeeze

Peter started by explaining the background behind his post: why companies shift to restrictive licenses like SSPL, what they’re trying to defend against, and why it often snowballs into confusion for both users and vendors.

He shared examples of how cloud providers respond, how this changes the economics of running a service, and why certain licensing decisions end up punishing the wrong people. The conversation unraveled into a broader point about how blurry the line has become between infrastructure, managed services, and full-blown products.

Why “Open Source Alternatives” Aren’t Always What They Seem

We also talked about the wave of drop-in replacements and forks that appear every time a company tightens its license. Peter explained the real costs behind “just run it yourself,” the pressure it puts on engineering teams, and why some of these forks still depend heavily on the original maintainers.

Underneath it all is a bigger question: who actually pays for the innovation that everyone wants to remain free?

The Realities of Building a Business Around Infrastructure

Peter broke down the challenges of turning infrastructure into a viable product: operational burden, attack surfaces, compatibility expectations, and the never-ending stream of breaking changes that users don’t see.

The theme kept coming back to sustainability. What does fair monetization look like? How do you protect your company without alienating your community? And what options do founders realistically have when cloud giants can replicate their service within months?

Thanks for listening!

Exploring Robo Advisors with Python Experts: Rob Reider & Alex Michalka

Get their book 45% OFF with code hockeystick24 here: https://mng.bz/ngjd

Join Miko Pawlikowski on this episode of HockeyStick as he dives into the world of robo advisors with industry heavyweights Rob Reider and Alex Michalka, authors of "Build a Robo Advisor with Python from Scratch". Discover their fascinating career paths from hedge funds to robo advising, the intricacies of Python programming for finance, and the evolution of financial planning and optimization techniques. Gain insights into asset allocation, tax-loss harvesting, Monte Carlo simulations, reinforcement learning, and the future of robo advising. An essential watch for anyone interested in the intersection of finance and technology!

0:00 Introduction to Robo Advisors

0:50 Rob Reider's Career Journey

01:40 Quantopian and the Love for Python

04:19 The Birth of a Book Collaboration

05:11 Alex's Journey and Weather Derivatives

08:08 Understanding Hedge Funds vs. Robo Advisors

11:13 The Rise of Robo Advisors

17:30 Tax Efficiency and Asset Allocation

24:51 Target Audience and Book Insights

28:21 Monte Carlo Simulations Explained

31:15 Monte Carlo Simulations Explained

32:01 Applications of Monte Carlo Simulations

33:34 Introduction to AI and Reinforcement Learning

35:25 Reinforcement Learning in Finance

39:38 The Power of Python in Finance

42:23 Challenges in Measuring Returns

1:01:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Understanding LLMOps: Differentiating from MLOps with Abi Aryan

Join Miko Pawlikowski on this episode of HockeyStick as he interviews Abi Aryan, a leading expert and author on Large Language Model Operations (LLMOps), to distinguish it from Machine Learning Operations (MLOps) and Machine Learning Engineering (MLE). Abi delves into the challenges and unique requirements of managing generative models in production, discusses the evolution and future of LLMOps, and shares insights into her upcoming book, 'LLMOps: Managing Large Language Models in Production.' Gain understanding on safety, scalability, robustness, and the lifecycle of LLMs, and learn practical steps to effectively deploy and monitor these advanced models.

00:00 Introduction

1:11 Generative vs. Discriminative Models

1:58 Challenges in LLMOps

2:12 The Shift to Task-Agnostic Software

2:50 Fine-Tuning and Prompt Engineering

4:37 The Origin of LLMOps

13:20 Safety, Scalability, and Robustness in LLMOps

29:40 Dynamic Model Adaptation

30:37 Challenges of Static Models

31:42 Improving Model Performance

32:20 Introducing a New Framework

34:06 Lifecycle of an LLM in Production

35:29 Data Engineering and Evaluation

37:06 Orchestration and Security

47:51 Future Predictions and Concerns

48:46 Impact on Jobs and Society

55:06 Risks and Ethical Considerations

59:11 Industry Trends and Monopolies

01:00:52 Conclusion and Contact Information

AI Impact on Software Testing: Expert Insights with Mark Winteringham

Get Mark's book 20% OFF with code hockeystick24 here: https://mng.bz/oeWD

In this episode of Hockey Stick, host Miko Pawlikowski welcomes Mark Winteringham, author of 'AI Assisted Testing,' to discuss the impact of generative AI on software testing.

They explore the efficacy of AI in writing tests, the future of software testing jobs, and the diverse roles within the testing profession. Mark provides his insights and experiences from 15 years in the industry, shares the concept of exploratory testing, and discusses the practical applications and limitations of AI tools in the testing landscape.

Key takeaways include the importance of empathy, critical thinking, and collaboration in testing, as well as how to effectively use AI tools for specific tasks. Tune in for an in-depth conversation on the evolving world of software testing.

00:00 Introduction to AI in Software Testing

00:17 Meet Mark Winteringham: A Journey into Software Testing

00:46 The Role and Daily Life of a Software Tester

14:01 Exploring the Impact of AI on Software Testing

17:35 Generative AI: Opportunities and Challenges

20:53 Practical Use Cases for AI in Testing

39:14 The Future of AI in Software Testing

42:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The Essentials of MLOps: With Eric Riddoch

Join Miko Pawlikowski as he dives into the world of MLOps with Eric Riddoch, a machine learning platform engineer and MLOps practitioner. In this episode, they discuss the differences between MLOps, DevOps, and platform engineering, tools and practices in MLOps, as well as Eric's journey into the field from studying applied math to becoming an MLOps expert. They explore automated workflows, experiment tracking, model serving, and monitoring, while considering the evolving landscape of MLOps and the challenges of integrating various tools. Tune in for an in-depth look at the technical and non-technical aspects of MLOps, and learn why this field is critical and exciting.

00:00 Introduction to MLOps

01:20 Eric Riddoch's Journey into MLOps

08:12 The Emergence of MLOps

10:23 Comparing MLOps and DevOps

10:53 Challenges in MLOps

21:15 Tools and MLOps Maturity

25:57 Building an ML Platform with Orchestrators

26:35 Experiment Tracking and Model Performance

27:08 ML Flow and Alternatives

29:18 Serving Models with BentoML

31:49 Challenges with SageMaker and GPU Quotas

32:54 Monitoring Tools and Their Limitations

36:48 The PyTorch vs TensorFlow Debate

42:41 Challenges in MLOps Roles and Leadership

50:42 Advice for Aspiring MLOps Engineers

Exploring FinTech and Generative AI with Industry Experts Mark Brouwer & Chris Cardell

Join Miko Pawlikowski in this episode of HockeyStick as he delves into the world of FinTech with industry veterans Mark Brouwer and Chris Cardell. Drawing from their collective 50 years of experience, Mark and Chris share insights about their new book 'Build Financial Software with Generative AI.' They discuss the evolution of FinTech, from ancient coin purses to modern AI-driven solutions, the challenges of writing a book together, the importance of adapting to new technologies, and the intricate culture within the FinTech sector. Learn about the unique obstacles faced by financial technology, regulatory impacts, and the cautious embrace of generative AI. Perfect for anyone curious about the intersection of finance and technology.

00:00 Introduction to the Episode

00:05 Meet the Guests: Mark Brower and Chris Cardell

00:35 The Story Behind the Space Shuttle Wallpaper

01:08 The Journey of Writing a Book Together

02:34 Why Write a Book on AI in Financial Software?

05:52 The Evolution of FinTech: From Coin Purses to Cryptocurrencies

08:47 Challenges and Innovations in FinTech

29:23 The Role of Generative AI in FinTech

48:09 Advice for Aspiring FinTech Professionals

51:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

How AI is Revolutionizing Medical Image Analysis

Join Miko Pawlikowski and Anuradha Kar, a researcher from Institut Pasteur in Paris, as they discuss the incredible advancements in AI-driven medical image analysis. Discover how technologies like x-rays, MRIs, and ultrasounds work, and how AI is enhancing their capabilities to accelerate drug discovery and diagnose diseases with unprecedented accuracy. Learn about Anuradha's fascinating journey through various research fields, the potential of AI in healthcare, and the promising future of AI-assisted medical technologies. Don't miss this deep dive into the intersection of AI and medical science!

00:00 Welcome to HockeyStick: AI's Impact on Medical Imaging

00:48 Deep Dive into AI-Assisted Drug Discovery

03:15 Anuradha Kar's Journey: From Atmospheric Research to AI in Healthcare

07:43 Exploring Medical Imaging Modalities: X-Ray, MRI, and Ultrasound

13:27 AI Revolutionizing Medical Image Analysis

24:02 The Future of AI in Medical Imaging and Beyond

32:24 Manning Live Projects: A Hands-On Approach to Learning AI

43:56 Career Advice: Diving into AI and Deep Learning

Demystifying Generative AI: Insights from Microsoft's Amit Bahree

In this episode, Miko Pawlikowski interviews Amit Bahree, a principal group technical program manager at Microsoft and the author of 'Generative AI in Action'. They delve into the complexities and applications of generative AI, particularly in a professional setting. Amit shares his journey into AI, the motivation behind his book, and provides insights into the future of AI technologies, including Large Language Models (LLMs), Small Language Models (SLMs), and the significance of prompt engineering. They also discuss the importance of multimodal AI for future developments and the role of open-source models in the AI community.

00:00 Welcome to Hockey Stick: Diving into Generative AI

00:59 The Genesis of "Generative AI in Action"

02:11 Amit Bahri's Journey into AI

03:36 The Multifaceted Role of a Technical Program Manager at Microsoft

06:20 The Sam Altman Saga and Microsoft's Position in AI

08:45 Why Generative AI is a Game Changer

13:07 The Evolution and Impact of AI Technologies

15:14 Exploring the Landscape of AI Models

18:22 Introducing Phi-3: A New Benchmark in AI

24:36 The Future of Small Language Models

32:33 Real-time AI: The Quest for Seamless Interaction

35:04 The Evolution of User Interfaces: From Apps to Voice Commands

36:49 Democratizing Technology: Real-World Examples of AI in Action

40:09 The Dark Side of AI: Ethical Dilemmas and Security Concerns

41:44 Navigating the New Landscape: Security and Ethical Considerations

45:06 Generative AI in Action: A Guide to Practical Applications

49:51 Exploring Image Generation Techniques and Their Applications

52:26 The Art and Science of Prompt Engineering

01:00:37 Future Predictions: Multimodality, SLMs, and System Improvements

01:05:55 The Role of Open Models in AI's Evolution

01:08:03 Reflecting on the Rapid Advancements in AI Technology

Leveraging Generative AI in Data Analytics: Insights from Industry Experts

In this episode of HockeyStick, host Miko Pawlikowski interviews Artur Guja, Dr. Marlena Siviak, and Dr. Marian Siwiak, the authors of 'Generative AI for Data Analytics.' They discuss the impact of generative AI on data analytics, their collaborative background, and their book's focus on utilizing AI tools efficiently rather than seeking them out as silver bullets for complex problems. The conversation also delves into process optimization, the challenges and realities of academia, the potential and limits of prompt engineering, and the future of AI in data analytics. The importance of understanding the nuances of using generative AI as an assistant rather than a replacement for human creativity and insight in data analytics is highlighted throughout the discussion.

00:00 Welcome to HockeyStick: Unveiling Generative AI's Impact on Data Analytics

00:17 Meet the Minds Behind the Book: Diverse Expertise Uniting for Innovation

01:11 The Genesis of a Groundbreaking Book: Collaboration and Inspiration

02:07 Demystifying Generative AI: Beyond the Hype and Into Practical Use

04:34 The Essence of Process Optimization: Bridging Gaps and Enhancing Efficiency

09:58 Navigating the Complexities of Academia: A Personal Journey

24:13 The Intriguing World of Pharmacon: A Techno-Thriller Born from Experience

26:00 Crafting a Book on Generative AI: A Collective Venture into the Future

33:55 Exploring the Impact of AI on Data Analytics and Programming

35:56 The Skepticism Towards LLMs in Development

37:04 The Role of Healthy Paranoia in AI Assistance

39:41 Defining and Discussing Artificial Sentience

46:14 The Practical Use of Generative AI in Data Analytics

01:00:15 The Future of Data Analytics and AI Integration

01:04:24 Final Thoughts and Book Promotion

Generative AI in Software Development: A Future Without Coders?

In this episode of HockeyStick, Miko Pawlikowski interviews Nathan B. Crocker, CTO at Checkr and author of 'AI-Powered Developer,' exploring the impact of generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Copilot on software development. They discuss the book's insights into using AI as a junior developer, its appeal to different levels of software practitioners, and experiences with generative AI for coding tasks. The conversation covers AI's role in designing, testing, refactoring, and understanding code, addressing job security concerns for software engineers. They also tackle the effectiveness of local LLMs versus online models, the evolving landscape of AI in coding, and future directions for developers using AI tools.

00:00 Welcome to HockeyStick: Exploring Generative AI for Code

00:23 Diving Into AI-Powered Development with Nathan B. Crocker

00:44 The Practical Guide to AI in Coding: Insights and Experiences

02:47 The Revolutionary Impact of AI on Software Development

04:46 ChatGPT: A New Era of Coding Assistance

08:57 The Magic of Copilot in Your IDE

10:40 Navigating the Challenges of Custom Code with AI Tools

14:46 Designing Software with AI: Beyond Just Code

17:45 Refactoring and Upgrading with AI: A New Frontier

20:27 The Quirks of AI: From Training Data to Practical Use

23:34 Exploring the Limits of AI in Software Testing

24:01 Exploring AI in Testing and Development

24:25 Harnessing AI for Software Testing

25:08 AI's Role in Code Depreciation and Asset Management

25:59 Understanding and Describing Code with AI

28:47 Security Insights and Ethical Considerations in AI

32:05 AI in Infrastructure and Deployment

37:36 Evaluating Local LLMs and Their Capabilities

42:18 The Future of Coding and AI: Predictions and Perspectives

44:01 Closing Thoughts and Next Steps for the Author

Navigating the World as a CTO: Insights & Strategies with Alan Williamson

Miko Pawlikowski hosts a comprehensive discussion on the role, challenges, and insights of being a Chief Technology Officer (CTO) with expert guest Alan Williamson, author of 'Think Like a CTO' and partner at New Harbor Capital. Williamson shares his journey into the CTO role, the misconceptions about the job, and the critical importance of understanding beyond just technology to succeed. Key topics include the vital first 100 days, the evolution from technical expert to strategic leader, building and managing teams, making impactful tech decisions, and preparing for company growth or acquisition. This episode is a guide for current and aspiring CTOs on navigating their roles, leveraging their positions for business success, and evolving with their companies.

00:00 Welcome to Hockey Stick: Unveiling the CTO Role

00:51 Alan Williamson: From CTO Struggles to Author

02:18 The Real Scope of a CTO's Role and Challenges

08:12 The Evolution from Startup CTO to Corporate Leader

21:55 Does Every Company Need a CTO? Debunking Myths

29:16 The CTO's Journey: From Vision to Execution

37:43 Harnessing Thought Leadership in Tech

37:58 The Power of Blogging for CTOs

41:24 Strategic Hiring and Team Building Insights

51:31 Navigating Technical Decisions and Open Source

01:03:56 Effective Documentation Strategies

01:12:01 Closing Thoughts and Resources

Welcome to Episode 49 of The HockeyStick Show! I’m Miko Pawlikowski, and this week I sat down with three platform leaders who’ve lived through the messy, unglamorous reality of building internal platforms that actually help teams ship better software: Ajay Chankramath, Sean Alvarez, and Nic Cheneweth.

We unpacked what platforms really are, why they’re misunderstood, and how good platform work is far more human than technical.

Platforms Aren’t Magic — They’re Just Good Engineering Done at Scale

All three guests pointed out a simple truth: most companies don’t need fancy platform branding, they just need to fix the basics. Shared tooling, stable environments, repeatable patterns — the “boring stuff” is what creates real leverage.

A platform isn’t a product you install. It’s a consistent way of working that reduces chaos and duplication.

Lesson: A platform is not the shiny thing — it’s the reliable thing.Action: Identify one repeated pain your teams face and solve it once, centrally.

Internal Customers Matter More Than Internal Technology

A theme that came up repeatedly: platform work only succeeds when the platform team treats engineers as customers, not as people who should “just use what we built.”

Ajay talked about how teams often skip discovery and jump straight into building. Sean emphasized empathy. Nic highlighted that many “platform failures” are really product failures — misaligned expectations, poor communication, and unclear value.

Lesson: If no one is using your platform, it’s not a platform — it’s shelfware.Action: Before building anything new, interview five developers about what they actually need.

Reduce Cognitive Load, Don’t Add to It

Every engineer knows the pain of juggling too many deployment paths, tooling options, and config formats. A good platform reduces cognitive load by removing decisions that shouldn’t matter.

This isn’t about limiting freedom. It’s about letting teams spend their energy on product, not plumbing.

Lesson: The best platform decisions remove decisions.Action: Pick one workflow today that your team repeats and standardize it.

Developer Experience Is a Business Metric

Nic made a point that stuck with me: no executive wakes up excited about “platform engineering.” They care about throughput, reliability, cost, and time-to-market. A platform only earns its place when it moves those numbers.

You don’t justify platform work with architecture diagrams. You justify it by showing how much faster teams deliver because of it.

Lesson: If you want executive support, speak the language of outcomes.Action: Track one metric affected by platform friction — and show the before and after.

Platforms Fail When They Become Mandates Instead of Choices

Sean raised this repeatedly: forcing a platform onto teams rarely works. The healthiest platforms are opt-in, because they’re useful enough that teams choose them.

Mandates hide problems. Adoption exposes them.

Lesson: If you have to force adoption, the real issue isn’t adoption — it’s value.Action: Ask a team why they didn’t choose your platform. Their answer is your roadmap.

Culture Makes or Breaks the Platform

Ajay described how teams often treat platform issues as technical problems, when they’re usually cultural ones: trust, communication, ownership, and the willingness to collaborate across team boundaries.

The best platforms grow in environments where experimentation is allowed, feedback loops are short, and teams feel safe saying “this isn’t working.”

Lesson: A platform is a cultural artifact as much as a technical one.Action: Start including platform updates in your engineering ceremonies — make it part of the conversation, not an afterthought.

A final thought from me

This conversation reminded me that platforms aren’t about abstraction layers or golden paths or YAML templates. They’re about helping people do their best work without tripping over the infrastructure underneath them.

If you take one thing from this episode: treat platform engineering as a service, not a structure. Talk to your teams, fix the pain that matters, and keep the human side front and center.

Thanks for listening!

The Future of Generative AI: Insights with David Clinton

Miko Pawlikowski hosts an engaging conversation with David Clinton, author of 'The Complete Obsolete Guide to Generative AI' and numerous technical books. They delve into the significance of generative AI, its current impact, and its potential to revolutionize various fields. Clinton shares his extensive experience as an author, discussing the rapid evolution of AI and its implications for traditional publishing, technical writing, and more. The discussion also explores broader topics, including AI's role in content creation, potential effects on industries like accounting and publishing, and the future of AI technology. Throughout, there's a focus on the blend of technology and creativity, the importance of adaptation, and contemplation on what the widespread adoption of AI means for society at large.

00:00 Welcome to Hockey Stick: The Generative AI Revolution

00:22 Meet David Clinton: A Serial Author in the Tech World

00:41 The Impact of Generative AI on Technology and Life

00:58 David Clinton's Prolific Writing Career and AI's Role

05:13 Generative AI: Transforming Industries and Professions

09:11 The Future of AI: Opportunities, Challenges, and Predictions

24:08 Generative AI vs. Traditional Technologies: A Comparative Analysis

26:36 Exploring Alternatives in AI and the Future of Search Engines

29:55 Elon Musk's Ventures and the Future of AI

32:18 Exploring the Timeliness of Technological Predictions

32:33 Why Now? The Sudden Surge in AI and Technology

33:18 The Integration Revolution: From Discrete Tools to AI Agents

35:05 The Role of Data Availability in AI Advancements

36:26 The Legal and Ethical Quandaries of AI Development

43:29 The Practical Uses and Limitations of Generative AI

52:51 The Future of AI: AGI, Quantum Computing, and Regulation

57:05 Reflecting on the Journey: AI's Impact on Content Creation

01:00:49 Navigating the New Era: AI's Role in Writing and Publishing

Exploring the Frontiers of Generative AI with Mark Liu

In this episode of HockeyStick, host Miko Pawlikowski interviews Mark Liu, a finance professor and seasoned coder, to dive into the world of Generative AI. Liu, author of 'Learn Generative AI with PyTorch', shares his journey from finance to AI, emphasizing the importance of coding in modern finance and his transition to Python for teaching analytics. He recounts the creation of his books, starting with Python applications in finance, moving to machine learning and generative AI, and finally to PyTorch for efficient model training. The conversation explores the basics of generative AI, breakthroughs like GANs, transformers, and diffusion models, and Liu's predictions for AI's impact on future jobs and technology development. They discuss the significance of generative AI in various industries, ethical considerations, and the potential directions for Liu's future work, highlighting the critical role of hands-on learning in understanding and leveraging AI technologies.

00:00 Welcome to HockeyStick: The Generative AI Revolution

00:25 Meet Mark Liu: From Finance to AI Pioneer

02:56 The Journey of Learning and Teaching Python

08:00 Exploring Generative AI and PyTorch

10:39 The Magic of Generative AI: From Text to Lifelike Images

14:50 The Impact of AI on Industries and Job Security

21:18 Understanding the Breakthroughs Behind Generative AI

34:16 The Role of Hardware and Data in AI's Rapid Advancement

37:15 Exploring the Versatility of GPUs

38:17 The Future of AI: Predictions and Possibilities

39:49 Navigating the Hype Cycle of AI

42:09 Ethical Considerations and the Future of AI Regulation

45:39 The Impact of AI on Politics and Elections

46:58 The OpenAI Controversy: From Open Source to For-Profit

51:02 PyTorch vs. TensorFlow: Predicting the Future

54:21 A Deep Dive into Generative AI and PyTorch

01:14:22 Future Projects and Closing Thoughts

Decoding the Past, Present, and Future of Language Models

Delve into the realm of language models with a comprehensive exploration spanning from the foundational Bag of Words approach to the revolutionary technologies of Transformers and GPT. This script not only unpacks the technical evolution and mathematical underpinnings of natural language processing but also projects the future trajectory of these models. It highlights expert insights on the societal impacts, the convergence of artificial intelligence with human cognition, and the ethical considerations of AI progression. Moreover, the discussion extends to the significance of open-source efforts in shaping this dynamic field. Aiming to provide a profound understanding, this guide navigates through the complex landscape of AI, language models, and their implications on future technology and society.

0:00 Welcome to HockeyStick: Unveiling the Power of LLMs

01:08 Meet the Experts: From Meetups to Authorship

03:16 The Hockey Stick Moment for LLMs: Breakthroughs and Realizations

07:48 Coding with LLMs: The New Frontier for Developers

15:39 The Pitfalls and Limitations of LLMs in Practice

21:43 Building vs. Buying LLMs: Navigating the Trade-offs

32:43 The Cost of Crafting Your Own LLM: Insights and Advice

42:48 Deciphering LLMs: A Crash Course in Language Features

50:44 Defining Language: A Philosophical Dive

51:33 Exploring the Essence of Language and Communication

54:31 Diving into Language Models and Their Evolution

55:08 From Bag of Words to N-Grams: The Evolution of Language Understanding

58:35 The Leap to Bayesian Techniques and Markov Chains

01:01:24 The Breakthrough of Continuous Bag of Words and Embeddings

01:09:43 Unveiling the Power of Multilayer Perceptrons

01:15:08 The Revolution of Attention Mechanisms and Transformers

01:26:37 The Hall of Fame: Landmark Models in the LLM Landscape

01:35:06 Predicting the Future of Language Models and OpenAI's Position

01:38:48 Concluding Thoughts and the Future of AI Research

Today, we’re taking a deep dive into kernels and operating systems: where they come from, the history, and the evolution. We’re covering classic OSes, as well as virtualisation, containers and unikernels.

I’m joined by two experts. Ian Eyberg, the CEO at nanoVM, a firm specialising in unikernels, and a multiple patent holder, and Sachin Kamboj, PhD University of Delaware, expert in Kubernetes and linux containers.