What technology’s potential over the next 10 years most excites you?
I’m more excited about the convergence of exponential technologies rather than any single tech. It’s the combination of AI + Robotics + VR + etc. that will yield new business models and transform industries. If I had to pick one, of course it would be Artificial Intelligence. It is hard for me to believe that anything else will be more impactful this next decade. But I’m a tech junky, so I get thrilled by the idea of combining 5G+VR/AR+AI… as well as AI + Genomics/CRISPR… this next decade is going to be quite a ride!
Who has most influenced your thinking and why?
That would be Ray Kurzweil, my co-Founder of Singularity University. The first half of my professional life was 200% focused on space and influenced by Arthur C. Clarke and Robert Heinlein, Gene Roddenberry and the Apollo Astronauts. But the second half of my life has been about exponential technologies and solving the world’s greatest challenges, and it is here that Ray, his writings and philosophy has been so meaningful to me. I’m greatful to call him a close friend, co-founder and mentor.
What attributes do you look for in an entrepreneur?
Absolute passion for what they are doing. A grounding in reality and first-principal thinking, married with clear understanding of what is possible. I would also add a dosage of “mono-maniacal thinking”.
What skill would you like to learn?
I would love to learn how to reach the deepest levels of meditation. I also think mind-reading, teleportation and flying like Superman would be a blast!
