#485 – David Kirtley: Nuclear Fusion, Plasma Physics, and the Future of Energy

This week, feuding between some of the biggest tech companies spilled into public view. We discuss Apple’s accusation that OpenAI tried to steal secrets about Apple’s hardware business, as well as share our reactions about OpenAI’s new model, Sol, and Anthropic’s decision to extend access to its model Fable. Then, we unpack the loudest warning yet about A.I. and jobs. We talk with Erik Brynjolfsson, a Stanford economist, about a statement he helped organize that implores economists and A.I. researchers to “act now” to steer A.I. in a direction that complements humans. And finally, we play a round of HatGPT. Guest: Erik Brynjolfsson, senior fellow at the Stanford Institute for Human-Centered A.I., and director of the Stanford Digital Economy Lab. Additional Reading: Apple Sues OpenAI, Accusing It of Stealing Company Secrets OpenAI’s First Device Will Be Movable, Screenless Speaker Built as A.I. Companion Nearly 200 Economists and Tech Leaders Warn of A.I. Threats The loudest warning abo

Recorded live at the New Media Summit, Erik Torenberg sits down with Replit founder and CEO Amjad Masad to discuss founder-led storytelling, building in public, and the role of media in company building. Masad reflects on Replit’s decade-long journey, including the years before the company’s recent breakout growth, and explains why communicating a vision can be just as important as executing on it. He argues that for many founders, especially those building ambitious products ahead of the market, telling a compelling story is often necessary to attract talent, capital, and early believers. The conversation explores social media, authenticity, public communication, company-building, and how founders can develop a voice that resonates beyond their product. Along the way, Masad shares lessons from building Replit, navigating controversy, and why he believes founders should think carefully about when to go direct and what story they're trying to tell. Resources: Follow Amjad Masad on X: ht

As part of our summer replay series, we're revisiting one of our most-discussed conversations from the past year. David Sacks joins Marc Andreessen, Ben Horowitz, and Erik Torenberg to discuss the intersection of AI, crypto, regulation, and American competitiveness. The conversation explores the Trump administration's approach to AI and crypto policy, open source AI, export controls, energy and infrastructure, the global race with China, and the role regulation plays in shaping innovation. They also discuss stablecoins, the future of AI development, permissionless innovation, and why they believe America's long-term advantage depends on enabling builders rather than slowing them down. Along the way, Sacks shares his perspective on AI safety, decentralized technology, federal versus state regulation, and what it will take for the U.S. to remain the global leader in emerging technologies. Resources: Follow David Sacks on X: https://x.com/DavidSacks Follow Marc Andreessen on X: https://x.

In this episode of Lexicon, we sit down with Matlantis application scientist Josh Young to break down how researchers are using AI-powered simulations to screen millions of materials faster, why speed often matters more than perfect accuracy, and where automation still falls short. Also, don’t forget to subscribe to IE+ for premium insights and exclusive content!