In this foundational episode of AI Unplugged, we cut through the noise around artificial intelligence to bring you real, thoughtful insight into what AI truly is—and what it isn’t.

Host Caleb Kioh sits down with technologist David Jitendranath and AI entrepreneur Soufiane Elaamili to discuss the building blocks of AI, the emerging concept of artificial consciousness, and the rapidly evolving role of agents, robotics, and digital workers. From industry applications to philosophical questions, this episode explores the human side of machine intelligence—and how to stay curious in a world of accelerating change.

Topics Covered:

• What is AI in plain terms?
• The three pillars: Machine intelligence, data science, and automation
• Neural networks vs. human brains
• The multimodal future of AI (images, text, audio)
• Consciousness: Fact or fiction in machines?
• Real-world examples in manufacturing and software
• AI agents & the future of work
• Tools you can use today

⏱️ Timestamps:

00:07 – Intro: Meet Caleb, Soufiane & David

02:01 – David’s Tech Background (Programmer → Architect)

03:35 – Soufiane’s Background: Business, CAD, and XD Innovation

04:58 – Defining AI: What Does It Mean Today?

07:20 – Soufiane's Three Pillars of AI

09:26 – Are AI Systems Conscious? Neural networks & world models

13:13 – Multimodal AI: Language, audio, and visual evolution

15:09 – Should We Be Afraid of AI? (Ethics & limitations)

18:08 – AI in Hardware: Manufacturing, robotics, predictive maintenance

21:46 – The Rise of Humanoids: Tesla Optimus & the factory of the future

27:01 – AI Agents Explained: Automation, autonomy, and digital workers

32:48 – Agent Managers & The Future of Work

33:37 – Simple AI Use Cases: Chatbots, bookkeeping, HR tools

36:00 – Replacing Jobs or Creating Value? How to navigate the shift

39:53 – Curiosity as a Skill in the AI Age

41:45 – Guiding Principles for Building Tech

46:59 – Emerging Trends: Multi-agent systems & predictive data fusion

51:04 – Practical AI Tools You Can Use Today

53:56 – Reflections and What’s Next

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.