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cardano
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Culture Conversations

Conferences

 

COP29 World Climate Action Summit day 3 session 4 with the following speakers:

Nick Nuttall
Host, Strategic Communications Director, We Don’t Have Time

Catarina Rolfsdotter-Jansson
Host, We Don’t Have Time & EU Climate Pact Ambassador

Select Speakers
Angela Hultberg
Global Sustainability Director, Kearney

Ingmar Rentzhog
CEO and Founder of We Don’t Have Time

Matt Bullivant (UK)
Director of Sustainability & ESG Strategy, OakNorth

Diolu Tobechukwu Prosper
Co-founder, Lincgreen Prospect & Climate Justice Advocate

Finn Ross
Director, Climate Action Company

Mikael Karlsson (SE)
Associate Professor Climate Change Leadership, Uppsala University

Hikaru Hayakawa
Executive Director, Climate Cardinals

Beatriz Triani Cherem
Researcher, Columbia Global Center Rio

Jonathan Banks (US)
Global Director, Methane, Clean Air Task Force

Diana Ürge-Vorsatz
Vice Chair, IPCC

Cecilia Lindén (SE)
Co-founder & climate strategist, GoClimate

Simon Zadek
Executive Director, NatureFinance

Simon Henzell-Thomas
Global Director of Climate & Nature, Ingka Group

Heather Reams
President, CRES – Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions

Marika Palmér Rivera
Research officer, LO – Swedish Trade Union Confederation

Ludovic Voet
Confederal Secretary, ETUC

Marcela Porto
Global Director of Communications & Sustainability, Suzano

Valerie Hickey
Global Director for Environment, Natural Resources and Blue Economy (ENB), World Bank

Johan Falk
CEO & Co-founder, Exponential Roadmap Initiative

Martina Otto
Head of Climate and Clean Air Coalition Secretariat, UNEP

Mats Pellbäck Scharp (SE)
Chair, We Don’t Have Time

Anna Blomstergren (SE)
Head of sustainability, Handelsbanken Financing

Dr. Maria Neira
Director, Department of Environment, Climate Change and Health, World Health Organization

Sean Maguire (UK)
Director of Strategic Partnerships, Clean Air Fund

Gonzalo Muñoz (CL)
High Level Climate Action Champion of Chile COP25 & Founder, Ambition Loop

Isabella Lövin
Chairperson of Stockholm Environment Institute, Former Swedish Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Environment and Climate.

Patrick Kiarie (KE)
Representative of We Don’t Have Time Kenya

David Olsson (SE)
COO & Co-Founder, We Don’t Have Time

Christina Carlmark (SE)
Partnership Manager, We Don’t Have Time

Meet the Drapers

 

In the seventh episode of “Meet The Drapers,” the focus shifts to Saudi Arabian startups, showcasing innovative solutions across various sectors. Hosted by Tim Draper, a prominent venture capitalist, the episode features pitches from four unique companies, each with a vision to transform their respective industries using cutting-edge technologies and ideas.

MetaWorldX presents its digital twin technology, offering real-time integration of live data into high-quality virtual models, revolutionizing urban planning and risk management.

Diagnio addresses women’s health, focusing on hormonal health and fertility. They propose a rapid, affordable digital testing system to empower women in their health journey, making fertility and hormonal health management more accessible and efficient.

IMAN, a Halal Investment Company, pitches its vision of facilitating interest-free financial services, aiming to revolutionize the Islamic finance sector and making it more accessible globally.

TakaDAO introduces a cooperative insurance platform utilizing public blockchains. Their model aims to provide a Sharia-compliant, decentralized insurance solution, addressing a significant gap in the global insurance market.

Provenmed stands out with its innovative medical devices designed for individuals suffering from urinary incontinence, showcasing a commitment to improving quality of life through technology.

Each startup brings a unique approach to solving complex problems, highlighting the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit in Saudi Arabia. The episode underscores the potential these startups have in not only transforming their industries but also in making a significant social impact.

What Is MetaWorldX’s Role in Urban Planning?

  • Specializes in digital twin technology for real-time urban planning.
  • Integrates live data into virtual models for effective risk management.
  • Aims to revolutionize urban development and management.

How Does Diagnio Empower Women’s Health?

  • Focuses on hormonal health and fertility through digital testing.
  • Provides rapid and affordable solutions for women.
  • Aims to make fertility and hormonal health management more accessible.

What Is IMAN’s Vision in Islamic Finance?

  • Offers Halal investment and financial services.
  • Aims to provide interest-free banking solutions globally.
  • Seeks to innovate and expand the Islamic finance sector.

How Is TakaDAO Innovating in Insurance?

  • Develops a cooperative insurance platform on public blockchains.
  • Offers Sharia-compliant, decentralized insurance solutions.
  • Addresses the global need for Islamic insurance products.

What Medical Solutions Does Provenmed Offer?

  • Creates innovative devices for urinary incontinence.
  • Focuses on improving the quality of life for affected individuals.
  • Demonstrates a commitment to healthcare innovation.

 

 

The sixth episode of “Meet The Drapers” brings an engaging mix of innovation and entrepreneurial spirit, showcasing three unique startups from diverse sectors. Host Tim Draper, a celebrated venture capitalist, leads the evaluation of these startups, each offering solutions to distinct global challenges.

Buupass, a startup focused on digitizing transportation in Africa, presents their platform that simplifies booking buses, trains, and flights. Their aim is to streamline the fragmented transportation sector in African countries, making travel more accessible and efficient for millions.

FlexClub introduces a novel subscription model for vehicles, including bikes, cars, and trucks. Their approach revolutionizes how people in emerging markets access transportation, providing flexibility and financial inclusivity.

Join Daba, another featured startup, aims to unlock the potential of investing in Africa. They provide a platform that makes it easier for people to invest in African ventures, opening up new economic opportunities and fostering growth in the region.

The episode is not just about business pitches; it delves into the broader impact these companies aim to make in their respective sectors. The startups demonstrate a keen understanding of the challenges they address, showing potential for significant social and economic impact.

Overall, this episode of “Meet The Drapers” is a testament to the power of innovative ideas in transforming industries and improving lives, particularly in emerging markets.

What is Buupass’s Impact on African Transportation?

  • Digitizes booking for buses, trains, and flights in Africa.
  • Aims to streamline the fragmented transportation sector.
  • Enhances accessibility and efficiency in African travel.

How is FlexClub Transforming Vehicle Accessibility?

  • Offers a subscription model for various vehicles.
  • Focuses on financial inclusivity and flexibility in emerging markets.
  • Revolutionizes vehicle access for drivers and small businesses.

What Opportunities Does Join Daba Offer in Africa?

  • Facilitates investment opportunities in African ventures.
  • Aims to stimulate economic growth through accessible investing.
  • Bridges the investment gap in the African market.

 

 

In this captivating episode of “Meet The Drapers,” the audience is introduced to a series of groundbreaking Indian startups, each bringing unique solutions to global challenges. Hosted by the renowned venture capitalist Tim Draper, the episode serves as a platform for these startups to showcase their innovative ideas and vie for investment and support to expand their reach.

One of the notable startups featured is Karya, which aims to transform the lives of rural Indians through inclusive mobile solutions. Their mission is to bridge the digital divide and uplift low-income communities by providing them with accessible technology.

NextGeneration, another impressive startup, presents their advanced orthopedic immobilization technology. Their innovative approach to medical care promises to revolutionize patient treatment with more efficient and comfortable solutions.

Unstop takes the stage with its career transformation platform, connecting talent with learning opportunities and potential career advancements. They emphasize the importance of skill development and continuous learning in the modern job market.

NeuroPixel, a generative AI startup in the fashion e-commerce sector, introduces a revolutionary approach to clothing cataloging. Their use of AI and computer vision technology stands to transform how fashion brands present and market their products online.

The episode is not just about individual pitches but also explores broader themes such as the impact of technology on traditional sectors, the role of startups in fostering economic growth, and the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in a rapidly evolving market.

Through these stories, “Meet The Drapers” highlights the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship, underscoring the potential of startups to drive significant social and economic change.

What is Karya’s Mission for Rural India?

  • Bridging the digital divide in rural India with inclusive mobile solutions.
  • Aiming to empower low-income communities through accessible technology.
  • Focused on improving livelihoods and economic opportunities in rural areas.

How is NextGeneration Changing Orthopedic Care?

  • Developing advanced orthopedic immobilization technology.
  • Enhancing patient comfort and treatment efficiency.
  • Innovating in medical technology for better patient outcomes.

What Does Unstop Offer for Career Development?

  • A career transformation platform connecting talent with learning opportunities.
  • Emphasizes skill development and continuous learning.
  • Aims to facilitate career advancements and opportunities.

How is NeuroPixel Innovating in Fashion E-Commerce?

  • Utilizes generative AI for efficient and innovative clothing cataloging.
  • Combines AI and computer vision to transform online fashion marketing.
  • A pioneer in integrating technology with fashion e-commerce.

 

Anything is Possible

 

Originally aired on April 11, 2023

Lao Tzu once said, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” My recent trek up Mt. Kenya with Sir Richard Branson and a fantastic group of inspiring individuals embodied this quote; it was an incredible journey of a lifetime.

We embarked on our adventure in October 2022. Today, six months later, I am thrilled to share the full-length video of our journey from Day 1 to Day 5 on Mt. Kenya. Our adventure took us to the top of the second highest mountain in Africa as part of the Strive Challenge. The Strive Challenge is a campaign by Big Change, a mission-based organisation dedicated to ensuring youth success.

During the trip, we faced challenges, pushed our limits, and formed lifelong bonds. This expedition was not just about climbing a mountain; it was about embracing the spirit of adventure, reaching new heights, and working towards a brighter future for all.

Throughout our trek, we broke into groups and discussed global education challenges and how we might support development worldwide. My group’s conversation focused on our personal experiences and how they connected to the issues that Big Change is tackling.

Education has played a crucial role in my family’s history. My Grandfather left Hong Kong in the 1950s to seek a better life in the United Kingdom. His ability to create a successful business hinged on his grasp of English and his early, albeit limited, formal education.

My own journey through education was shaped by the fact that I grew up as a first-generation immigrant in Belfast, where I experienced racially-charged bullying. This experience changed my outlook on the school system and formal education. Despite this, I studied law at one of England’s most prestigious law schools and recently attended Harvard Business School.

Throughout my education, I have developed a holistic view and come to believe that while education is important, it doesn’t guarantee everything in life. Like anything of value, it must be cultivated and nurtured over the long term.

I am a massive fan of Big Change and its work. The organisation does a great job bringing together like-minded people to effect change. While Big Change used to focus on the UK, it now has a global reach.

For those interested in getting involved and participating in the global conversation, you can host a #BigEducationConversation. By doing this, you can help share a vision for change. Visit bigeducationconversation.org and join the mission to support a million conversations in communities worldwide.

As for me, I am excited to continue pushing boundaries and breaking barriers. I believe that #anythingispossible when we work together towards a common goal.

Edge of NFT

Edge of AI

The O Show

 

Originally aired on December 1, 2023

In this episode of the O Show, host Wendy O covers a wide range of crypto news and updates. She discusses breaking news about Salana setting an unprecedented record, a bombshell involving Algorand, Iota surging to a six-month high, market caps, Bitcoin price action, and more. Wendy also shares an exciting personal announcement about a partnership between the Karate Combat event and a local boxing gym, providing an opportunity for underprivileged youth to attend a live fight in Las Vegas.

What is the breaking news about Salana’s record-setting achievement?

  • Salana achieves the highest DEX volume in history
  • Monthly Salana USD transfer volume exceeds 7 billion
  • The ecosystem demonstrates growth and high user activity

How is Algorand making strides in India and other areas?

  • Algorand partners with organizations in India to support web 3 growth
  • Teams up with tech advocacy group NASCOM and women-centric bank Man Des
  • Developing a blockchain-based credit scorecard and identity system for women entrepreneurs

What is the exciting announcement made in the episode?

  • Karate Combat partners with a local boxing gym to send underprivileged youth to a live fight event in Las Vegas
  • The initiative aims to provide a positive experience and mentorship for the participating youth
  • Wendy O expresses enthusiasm and gratitude for the partnership’s impact on the community

What updates are available regarding cryptocurrency token unlocks?

  • Projections for upcoming token unlocks and potential impacts on the market
  • Guidance for token holders to remain cautious and informed about potential sell-offs during the unlock periods
  • Emphasis on understanding the implications of token unlocks on one’s crypto holdings

What are the important developments related to Circle and its involvement with Justin Sun?

  • Circulation of a letter from Circle to Senators denying involvement with illicit finance or Justin Sun and associated companies, Tron and Hopi
  • Circle aims to repel claims of involvement with crypto financing through transparent communication with lawmakers

What are the latest updates related to Bitcoin ETF issuers and SEC approval?

  • MicroStrategy acquires an additional 16,000 Bitcoin for 593 million
  • SEC’s official approval window for Bitcoin spot ETF is scheduled for January 5th to January 10th
  • Expectations for potential approval and implications for the cryptocurrency market

 

00:00 – Intro

03:05 – The entire crypto market

03:30 – BTC price analysis

03:40 – We are trading on #phemex #partner

03:45 – Back to $BTC analysis

05:00 – Total crypto market cap

05:25 – Solana sets unprecedented record

06:45 – SOL price analysis

11:30 – New Algorand partnerships

13:20 – ALGO price analysis

15:30 – More Algorand news

17:20 – Karate Combat X The Self Care Lab announcement

26:00 – IOTA hits 6-month high (Here’s why)

27:50 – Reddit $MOONS token becomes fully decentralised

28:45 – Pay attention to token unlocks

31:50 – Kyberswap hacker send demands to project

33:08 – Poloniex withdrawals/deposits back online

34:40 – Circle $USDC denies shocking allegations

35:45 – Shout out to KarateCombat for this xo

38:05 – DeSantis vs Newsome

42:00 – Spot Bitcoin ETFs update

43:00 – Final news stories

 

Originally aired on November 21, 2023

In this episode of The O Show, host Wendy O delivers an impassioned and unfiltered monologue addressing the recent developments in the crypto industry. She expresses her frustration with the legal system, discusses the shocking resignation of Binance CEO CZ amid extortion and legal action, and delves into the intertwined issues of crypto regulation, market manipulation, and the impact on everyday people. Wendy also touches on the relationship between FTX, OpenAI, and bankruptcy proceedings, while advocating for financial inclusion and advocating for individuals to stay informed and supportive of one another.

WHAT is the impact of legal action on Binance CEO CZ?

  • Binance CEO CZ has resigned amid extortion, legal action, and a plea guilty to money laundering violations
  • The U.S. Department of Justice and the Treasury are involved in a major cryptocurrency action regarding Binance
  • The SEC and Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen are attending a DOJ action related to CZ

WHAT are the implications of FTX, OpenAI, and bankruptcy proceedings?

  • FTX’s bankruptcy trustee has yet to sell a stake in Anthropics worth a significant amount
  • OpenAI’s board of directors approached Anthropics about a potential merger, indicating a complex relationship among related entities

WHAT is the impact on Bitrex Global and other exchanges?

  • Bitrex Global has decided to wind down operations, prompting customers to withdraw their assets as soon as possible
  • The closure highlights the challenges of competing in the crypto exchange market and the impact on users

00:00 – U.S. legal system is messed up

05:45 – The entire crypto market

06:20 – BTC  price analysis

08:20 – Binance CEO CZ steps down

09:55 – SEC sues Kraken exchange

34:00 OpenAI drama involves FTX & Anthropic AI

37:35 – Celsius Network bankruptcy plan confirmed

37:55 – Bittrex exchange shutting down

41:50 – Elon Musk is fighting for free speech

42:10 U.S. debt is huge

 

Originally aired on November 20, 2023

Wendy O discusses a wide range of topics in this episode of The O Show. She covers shocking allegations against OpenAI, the pumping of meme coin Bonk, market volatility, the implications of Bitcoin’s price movements, her personal experience with a traumatic event, and a breaking news about the crypto industry. Wendy also highlights the importance of raising awareness and funds for organizations like House of Ruth and emphasizes the need for financial transparency and personal empowerment through cryptocurrency.

What are the shocking allegations against OpenAI?

  • Allegations against former CEO Sam Alman
  • Alleged lack of transparency and communication with the board
  • Sam Alman’s involvement in a potential AI-focused chip company

Why is Bitcoin pumping in Argentina?

  • The election of a new president in Argentina
  • Anti-Central Bank stance and support for Bitcoin
  • Potential impact on the country’s economy and financial policies

What new developments have occurred in the crypto industry?

  • Acquisition of Coindesk by Bullish, a company led by the former NYSE president
  • Tether’s freeze of 225 million tokens due to a criminal investigation
  • Exploitation of yfi and multi-chain bridges in the crypto market

00:00 – Show intro

02:45 – $BONK #memecoin surging

04:10 – Are you ready for Killer Whales TV show?

05:00 – The entire crypto market

06:05 – How to use TradingView

07:20 – BTC daily, weekly & 4h

13:15 – Token airdrops tips & tricks

13:55 – Binance extorted

14:20 – Bitcoin to $500k?

15:00 – OpenAI drama

18:25 – Argentina election pumps Bitcoin

24:10 – More large institutions adopting crypto

24:55 – Pentagon fails audit AGAIN

26:50 – Joe Biden trying to take over the internet

29:15 – China pushes social credit score and CBDC system

30:10 – Tether FUD

31:20 – Crypto exchange buys Coindesk

32:55 – Celsius Network bankruptcy plan halted

33:30 – Huge DYDX YFI exploit

Bad Crypto

 

Originally aired on November 15, 2023

In episode 702 of the Bad Crypto podcast, hosts Joel Comm and Travis Wright cover a range of topics related to the fast-evolving world of crypto, NFTs, AI, and mainstream adoption. They discuss the impending Bitcoin halving, ETFs, price fluctuations, and the potential for mainstream adoption of cryptocurrencies in the near future. The hosts also explore the latest advancements in AI technology, the rise of Bitcoin in NFT marketplaces, and the move towards cashless transactions. Overall, the episode offers valuable insights into the current state and future trends of the crypto industry.

What are the top trends in the crypto market?

  • Bitcoin halving and ETFs leading to a potential bull market
  • Rise of Bitcoin in NFT marketplaces
  • Cashless transactions and the move towards digital payments
  • Record-breaking earnings for Bitcoin miners

How is AI evolving in the crypto world?

  • OpenAI’s Chad GPT advancements, now with 128,000 tokens
  • Introduction of DALL-E 3 for image creation and vision
  • Collaboration between Mastercard and self-custody wallets like MetaMask
  • Innovative wearable tech from former Apple designers

What are the implications of Mastercard’s collaboration with self-custody wallets?

  • Enables linking a self-custody wallet to a debit card-type setup
  • Provides increased convenience for managing funds within the wallet
  • Raises questions about trust and security of self-custody wallet transactions

How is the landscape of NFTs evolving in the crypto world?

  • Ethereum still dominating the NFT market, but Bitcoin is rising
  • Potential impact on original NFTs if hosting resources go down
  • Collaboration between gaming platforms such as Roblox and NFTs
  • Broader implications for the digital asset market as a whole

How are prices and market trends shaping the future of crypto?

  • Mainstream adoption on the horizon due to upcoming developments
  • Speculation on potential bull market and price fluctuations
  • Implications of historical market trends and potential future surges
  • Impact of institutional investments and ETFs on market dynamics

What are the latest advancements in blockchain technology?

  • Grayscale launching a trust trading of Salina at a 869 per premium
  • Samsung, Amazon, and X unveiling new AI models and offerings
  • Collaboration between Visa, USDC, Solana
  • Ripple’s ongoing developments in cross-border payments

 

 

Originally aired on November 6, 2023

In episode 701 of the Bad Crypto Podcast, hosts Joel Comm and Travis Wright discuss various topics in the world of cryptocurrency. They begin by sharing the news of Sam Bankman-Fried’s guilty verdict on seven counts of fraud and conspiracy. They also discuss the anticipation of Grayscale’s Bitcoin Trust ETF and its potential impact on the market. Additionally, they touch on the recent indictment of the founders of SafeMoon for fraud, as well as the SEC’s scrutiny of PayPal’s stablecoin. The hosts also share personal updates, including Joel’s recent trip to Spain, Turkey, and Egypt.

Sam Bankman-Fried Found Guilty

  • Sam Bankman-Fried, founder of FTX, has been found guilty on seven counts of fraud and conspiracy.
  • The sentencing will take place in March 2024, and Bankman-Fried could face up to 115 years in prison.

Anticipation of Grayscale’s Bitcoin Trust ETF

  • The anticipation of Grayscale’s Bitcoin Trust ETF has caused the market to rally, with Bitcoin reaching new highs.
  • The tripled price of Grayscale’s Bitcoin Trust this year reflects investor confidence in the future of Bitcoin ETFs.

Indictment of SafeMoon Founders

  • The founders of SafeMoon have been indicted for fraud, allegedly diverting investor funds for personal gain.
  • This serves as a reminder of the risks associated with investing in cryptocurrency projects without thorough research.

SEC Scrutiny of PayPal’s Stablecoin

  • PayPal’s issuance of its stablecoin, PYUSD, has come under scrutiny from the SEC.
  • The SEC is likely to investigate whether PayPal’s stablecoin poses any regulatory concerns.

Personal Updates: Joel’s Trip to Spain, Turkey, and Egypt

  • Joel shares his recent trip to Spain, Turkey, and Egypt, discussing the highlights of his travels.
  • The trip included visits to historical landmarks such as the Great Pyramids of Giza and a Nile River cruise.

 

Bad AI

 

Originally aired on August 22, 2023

In this episode of Bad AI, Joel Comm and Travis Wright interview Denise Holt, the host of the Spatial Web AI podcast, to discuss the future of the web and the impact of AI and spatial technology. They delve into the Spatial Web, a new iteration of the internet that combines AR, VR, IoT, AI, and crypto, and how it will revolutionize the way we interact with the online world. They explore the concept of hyperspace transaction protocol (HSTP) and hyperspace modeling language (HSML), which enable the transition from websites to spaces where every object can be located and programmable. They also highlight the advantages of active inference AI over traditional machine learning AI, such as explainability and the ability to self-report on decision-making. The hosts discuss the implications of the spatial web for AI governance and the potential for decentralized data storage and transfer. Overall, the episode provides insights into the exciting possibilities offered by the spatial web and how it will shape the future of the internet.

What is the Spatial Web and how will it change the internet?

  • The internet protocol is evolving to HSTP and HSML, allowing the transition from websites to locatable and programmable spaces.
  • HSTP enables the creation of digital representations of physical spaces, facilitating simulations and real-time updates.
  • Objects within spaces can be locatable and defined based on context, aided by sensors and programmed context.

How does active inference AI differ from traditional machine learning AI?

  • Active inference AI goes beyond pattern matching and recognizes real-time data, allowing it to make decisions and act in real-time.
  • It minimizes complexity and energy draw, making it more efficient.
  • It offers explainability and the ability to self-report on decision-making.

What are the implications of the spatial web for AI governance?

  • The spatial web with active inference AI allows for security, control, and auditing of synthetic intelligence.
  • It enables the creation of rules and guidelines that can be programmed into AI systems.
  • The Prometheus project proposes a sandbox for AI governance experimentation at a global level.

How does the spatial web enhance interoperability and innovation?

  • The spatial web allows for interoperability between different technologies and applications, fostering innovation.
  • The Cosm operating system and AI App Store enable the creation of intelligent agents and applications that are aware of each other and the network.
  • The level of interoperability will drive new possibilities and advancements in various industries.

How will the spatial web impact smart cities and data utilization?

  • The spatial web can provide insights and data points to optimize smart city operations, such as traffic management and supply chain logistics.
  • It allows for the seamless integration of data from diverse sources, making siled data sources interoperable.
  • It empowers organizations to protect proprietary data while accessing the benefits of the AI-powered network.

How will the spatial web revolutionize the user experience?

  • The spatial web offers a more seamless and immersive experience compared to current virtual spaces.
  • It has the potential to transform various industries, including gaming, education, healthcare, and e-commerce.
  • The upcoming release of Apple’s Vision Pro goggles is expected to accelerate the adoption of the spatial web and increase demand for innovative experiences.
 

Originally aired on July 28, 2023

This Bad AI episode discusses the usage of AI tools to create videos from text prompts and images. It specifically focuses on the use of runwayml.com, a website that offers various AI-powered tools for visual creation. The article explores the capabilities of the text-to-video feature and showcases examples of videos created using this technology. While acknowledging certain limitations, the article highlights the potential for creativity and experimentation in AI-generated visuals.

Can you create videos just by using a text prompt?

The article introduces runwayml.com, a platform that allows users to generate videos using text prompts and AI technology.

How does runwayml.com facilitate video creation using AI?

Runwayml.com provides a text-to-video tool that enables users to input a text prompt and generate a corresponding video.

What are the limitations of text-to-video AI?

The generated videos may not always match the exact expectations or descriptions provided in the text prompts.

How can users enhance their video results?

Users can refine their video outcomes by providing more specific and detailed text prompts.

What other AI tools are available on runwayml.com?

The platform offers various AI tools, such as image-to-video, text-to-image, and background removal, among others.

What are the benefits and potentials of runwayml.com?

Runwayml.com allows users to explore and experiment with AI-generated visuals, opening doors for creativity and innovation.

 

The NIFTY Show

Wondros Podcast

 

Originally aired on November 8, 2023

In this Wondros episode, Jesse Dylan interviews Lucy Sante, a writer, culture critic, scholar, and contributor to The New York Review of Books. Sante discusses a range of topics, including the creative process for artists in today’s world, her book “Evidence” that features haunting photographs found in the New York City municipal archives, her love for photography and collecting old photographs, the connection between photography and music, the fascination with the past and history, and the challenges and importance of research in her writing process.

The Challenges for Artists Today

  • Sante reflects on the dramatically different conditions for artists now compared to when she was coming up in the art world.
  • She notes that photographers often go through the academic route, receive grants, and do commercial or fashion work to support themselves.
  • Living modestly and dealing with high demand, young artists often struggle compared to the relative freedom and low cost of living that Sante experienced.

The Origins of “Evidence”

  • Sante explains that her book “Evidence” came about as part of her picture research for her first book about New York City in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
  • While searching for specific types of photographs, she stumbled upon the glass plate photographs in the New York City municipal archives.
  • These photographs, found under a staircase and overlooked in a move, provided a unique and haunting glimpse into the daily lives of people living in tenements in the early 20th century.

The Strange World of Glass Plate Photographs

  • Sante describes the glass plate photographs as hypnotizing and revealing of a part of New York City that no longer exists.
  • The buildings, people, and captions are gone, leaving only the photographs and sometimes fragmented or missing information.
  • These photographs, which were taken as part of police investigations and court cases, offer an interzone between life and death and give insight into how people lived in tenements during that time.

Photography and Intuition

  • Sante shares her early attraction to photography, citing Walker Evans and Robert Frank as influences.
  • While she took classes and learned about the technical aspects of photography, she realized she would always be an imitator rather than an original artist in the medium.
  • However, she continued to collect old photographs and found a connection between photography and folk music, both capturing and transmitting certain aspects of American culture.

Folk Photography and American Culture

  • Sante discusses her collection of folk photography, particularly postcards that depict Americana.
  • She notes that her interest in folk photography was driven by visual appeal rather than subject matter.
  • The photographs capture the outfits and culture that are reminiscent of American folk music, creating a connection between the two art forms.

Ramifications of History and Memory

  • Sante reflects on the impact of history and memory on her work, noting her personal connection to the Catskills, reservoirs, and abandoned villages.
  • She finds fascination in the disappearing or transformed landscapes and the stories that are lost or rewritten over time.
  • Through her research and writing, she strives to capture and make sense of these stories before they vanish completely.

 

 

Originally aired on November 1, 2023

In this episode of Wondros, hosts Jesse and Priscilla interview Rob Gasto, an artist specializing in creating dinosaur fossils for museums. They discuss whether the dinosaur bones in museums are original or recreations, the challenges posed by distorted and mashed bones, and Rob’s personal journey from childhood fascination with dinosaurs to becoming a renowned dinosaur fossil artist. Rob also shares his experience of having a dinosaur genus named after him, how he developed his skills in sculpture and welding, and his process of restoring and reconstructing dinosaur skeletons. He explains the importance of accuracy in his work and the limitations he faces due to budget constraints and distorted bones. Rob highlights the role of paleontologists in providing guidance and references for his restorations. He also talks about the demand for dinosaur skeletons in Japan and his desire to see more unique and non-action poses in dinosaur sculptures. The episode concludes with a discussion on the future of paleontology and the ongoing discoveries and challenges in the field.

Are museum dinosaur bones original or recreations?

  • Bones in major museums are usually original, while smaller regional museums often use cast material for accuracy and budget reasons.
  • Original bones can be distorted and mashed due to being buried under sediment for millions of years.
  • Original bones may not be suitable for mounting due to damage and accessibility for research purposes.

Rob’s personal journey and the dinosaur named after him

  • Rob’s childhood fascination with dinosaurs reignited when he found a dinosaur that was later named Gastonia.
  • Gastonia is a genus named after Rob, and the discovery led to Rob’s career as a fossil artist.
  • His skills in sculpture and welding were well-suited for the occupation.

The process of restoring and reconstructing dinosaur skeletons

  • Rob’s team uses high-quality plastic casts to ensure accuracy and prevent damage to original bones.
  • Distorted bones can be reshaped through cutting, heating, and bending techniques, or by creating foam forms and taxidermy-like methods.
  • Restorations can take from a few days to several years, depending on the complexity and condition of the bones.

Challenges and competitors in the fossil art industry

  • The industry has seen a resurgence in dinosaur discoveries, resulting in increased demand for restorations.
  • Rob considers other artists in the field as fellow professionals rather than competitors.
  • The skills required for the job include artistic abilities, manual dexterity, and shop skills.

The fascination and impact of dinosaurs

  • Dinosaurs capture the imagination due to their magnificent size and the intriguing worlds they inhabited.
  • Rob prefers imagining dinosaurs in their natural environments rather than focusing on their interactions with humans.
  • Movies like Jurassic Park provide entertainment and bring dinosaurs to the public’s attention, but Rob appreciates more alternative and unique depictions as well.

The future of paleontology and ongoing discoveries

  • The field of paleontology will continue to discover new dinosaur species as construction projects and expansion uncover more fossils.
  • However, illegal collecting and poaching threaten the preservation of fossils.
  • Rob believes that our records and discoveries may be lost or altered over time, but the vastness of geologic time makes human impact seem insignificant.
 

Originally aired on October 18, 2023

In this episode of The Wondros Podcast, hosts Jesse and Priscilla interview space archaeologist Alice Gorman. They discuss the concept of luxury in space, the field of space archaeology, the relationship between archaeology and space exploration, and the challenges of preserving space artifacts. They also explore the idea of a space graveyard, the cultural impact of space exploration, and the future of space governance.

What Counts as Luxury in Space?

  • Luxury in space can include items like fresh fruit, high-end designer products, and unique materials.
  • Luxury may be symbolized by rarities that demonstrate social status or the ability to create high-value products in space.
  • The mobilization of material goods to support social structures in space will be an interesting aspect to observe.

Space Archaeology

  • Space archaeology is the study of the artifacts, buildings, structures, and environments related to humans getting into space.
  • It is part of the broader field of contemporary archaeology, focusing specifically on space-related objects.
  • The field has gained recognition, with governments and space agencies taking it seriously and considering heritage issues in space exploration.

Spacecraft Lifecycle and Preservation

  • Spacecraft are often made by hand and can be mass-produced or involve unique materials and technologies.
  • Depending on the altitude and destination, spacecraft may burn up upon re-entry or be preserved in space or on the surface of celestial bodies.
  • The preservation and analysis of space artifacts and legacy data are crucial for future study and understanding of human space exploration.

Space Governance and Ethics

  • The question of how to govern human activities in space is a pressing issue.
  • Discussions center around issues such as labor rights, power dynamics, regulations, and the prevention of one nation gaining dominance.
  • Some propose polycentric governance and the creation of a separate government for colonies on Mars or other celestial bodies.

Cultural Impact of Space Exploration

  • Space exploration has a profound impact on culture and society, inspiring awe and fascination.
  • There is a tension between the utopian vision of equal opportunities in space and the potential for exclusive access and elitism.
  • Exploring space raises questions about the purpose and meaning of human existence and our place in the universe.

Controversies and Belief Systems

  • The controversies surrounding space exploration, such as the moon landing conspiracy theories, often stem from distrust of authority and scientific knowledge.
  • These beliefs are tied to wider belief systems and can involve religious or ideological factors.
  • The preservation of space artifacts and data can provide tangible evidence to debunk such conspiracy theories.

 

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