In this episode of the Technocracy Podcast, Ajay Prakash and Loong Wang are joined by Kerman Kohli to explore the gritty realities of building with AI. From vibe coding disasters to data engineering struggles, they dive into what it really takes to be a modern AI engineer.

Kerman shares his journey building a personal AI scheduling assistant—from breaking Google Calendar’s API to creating his own time-slot library and natural language date parser. This episode unpacks why building real AI tools isn’t as glamorous as it looks.

They also discuss:

- Why everyone might need to learn coding

- The myth of AI replacing SaaS

- How commoditized outputs unlock creativity

- The rise of personal software

-The unglamorous truth behind APIs, dates, and infrastructure

- Why most AI demos break in the real world

- And how the future belongs to those who know how to think, not just code.

Whether you're a founder, engineer, or AI enthusiast—this one’s packed with brutally honest takes, practical advice, and future-forward insights.

Check out Ajay’s Stuff:

EntryLevel: https://entrylevel.net

Website: https://ajays.quest

Check out Loong’s Stuff:

QDX: https://www.qdx.co/

Automera: https://automeratx.com/

00:00 Introduction to AI and Coding

00:49 Exploring Image AI and Its Impact

02:11 The Evolution of Copywriting with AI

03:49 The Future of AI-Generated Content

04:41 Building Generative 3D Worlds

05:44 Personal AI Tutors and Skill Development

06:36 The Importance of Systematic Thinking in AI

11:20 Challenges in Data Engineering with AI

17:44 Developing Personal Software Solutions

20:11 The Journey of Building an AI-Powered Calendar App

31:10 The Value of Becoming a Software Engineer

32:02 Critical Thinking in Software Engineering

32:41 Building and Expressing Ideas Through Code

34:19 Navigating AI and Software Development

35:04 Creating Tools for AI Integration

39:19 Challenges in Date and Time Programming

45:03 The Future of AI and Software Development

52:18 Final Thoughts on AI and Personal Growth

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In this episode of the Technocracy podcast, hosts Ajay and Loong delve into a nostalgic view of the internet, predicting a return to pre-Facebook days. They explore the future of AI, debating whether AI can surpass human intuition and creativity, especially in terms involving taste and style. The hosts discuss how AI-generated content might lead to AI-free spaces and the potential need for new roles like AI trainers and sustainers. The conversation shifts to the nature of lightning, its immense energy, and the challenges of capturing it for power. They elaborate on the physics behind lightning strikes, debunking common myths and explaining why visible lightning appears to travel from the ground to the sky. The episode wraps up with reflections on the intersection of deep technology and human expertise, encouraging listeners to not just consider execution but also guard their innovative ideas in an AI-driven future.

Check out Ajay’s Stuff:

EntryLevel: https://entrylevel.net

Website: https://ajays.quest

Check out Loong’s Stuff:

QDX: https://www.qdx.co/

Automera: https://automeratx.com/

00:00 Introduction to the Future of the Internet

01:14 Exploring AI and Human Consciousness

05:06 The Role of AI in Content Creation

07:07 The Value of Human Effort and Taste

12:02 Future Job Roles in an AI-Driven World

24:50 Human Perception and Conscious Experience

32:19 Creating an AI Version of Yourself

33:51 Lightning, Doom, and Drugs

33:58 Debunking Lightning Myths

34:59 The Energy in a Lightning Bolt

36:43 Challenges in Capturing Lightning Energy

36:58 Historical Attempts to Capture Lightning

37:55 Modern Lightning Capture Technologies

44:12 How Lightning Actually Works

57:16 The Future of Lightning Energy

01:01:51 Closing Thoughts and Subscriber Goals

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Revolutionizing Wireless Energy Transmission with Aquila's Advanced Technology

In this episode, hosts Ajay and Loon explore the pioneering work of Billy, founder of Aquila, in the realm of wireless energy transmission. Billy details Aquila's journey from initial concepts to groundbreaking advancements in power beaming technology. Topics discussed include the operational challenges and breakthroughs in laser energy networking, managing intense optical power, and thermal dissipation. The conversation covers Aquila's strategic hiring, technology integration, and regulatory considerations. Billy also outlines Aquila's ambitious vision for the future—expanding from drone applications to global energy distribution and beyond. The episode provides a comprehensive look at a transformative technology with the potential to reshape energy infrastructure and enable deep space exploration.

Check out Ajay’s Stuff:

EntryLevel: https://entrylevel.net

Website: https://ajays.quest

Check out Loong’s Stuff:

QDX: https://www.qdx.co/

Automera: https://automeratx.com/

00:00 Introduction to Energy Transmission Challenges

01:19 Founding Aquila: Vision and Mission

03:21 Technological Innovations and Efficiency Gains

07:53 Scaling and Team Dynamics

12:18 Safety and Operational Readiness

17:43 Efficiency Breakthroughs and Future Prospects

20:46 Tuning the Band Gap for High Efficiency

21:12 Vertical Multi-Junction Cells and Power Beaming

21:40 Integrating Cells into Drone Power Systems

22:14 Optimizing Efficiency and Addressing Thermalization

23:33 Innovations in Semiconductor Systems

24:26 Operational Challenges and Attenuation

25:30 Stratospheric Drones and Energy Distribution

27:01 Thermal Management and Material Innovations

28:16 Custom Manufacturing and Scaling Challenges

29:13 Technical Challenges and Laser Locking

37:06 Future Vision: Energy Networks and Aerospace

39:23 Connecting Remote Communities and Long-Term Goals

40:35 Exploring Last Mile Delivery and Market Potential

41:45 Conclusion and Further Resources

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Exploring Technological Innovations and Financial Mysteries

In this episode of the Technocracy Podcast, hosts Ajay and Loong dive into various technological and financial topics. They begin by discussing the complexities of AWS and serverless functions, introducing Titan CLI and its unique one-time payment model. They then segue into broader technological advancements, touching on blockchain, data storage, and the future of decentralized finance versus traditional financial instruments. The conversation shifts to the economics of flights and televisions, revealing how technical improvements have drastically reduced their costs over time. The episode concludes with an investigation into the financial transparency of Burning Man, raising questions about the organization's spending amid increasing losses. Tune in for an enlightening conversation blending technology, finance, and intriguing case studies.

00:00 Introduction to AWS and Data Localization

01:19 Exploring Titan CLI and Serverless Functions

03:42 The Simplicity and Efficiency of Serverless

10:39 Challenges and Innovations in Serverless and Databases

20:28 Blockchain and Future Innovations

26:57 Japanese Convenience Stores and Financial Infrastructure

27:25 Cash-Heavy Countries and Blockchain Payments

27:55 QR Code Payments in China

28:20 Virtual Store Clerks in Japan

32:05 Flight Economics and Cost Structures

39:53 The Decline in TV Prices

42:20 Burning Man Financials Exposed

48:24 Wrap-Up and Future Topics

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Exploring the Future of EV Charging Stations and AI Programming Limitations

In this episode of the Technocracy Podcast, hosts Ajay and Loong explore a variety of intriguing topics. They discuss the evolving role of service stations as the world transitions to electric vehicles, revealing that convenience retail is a significant profit driver compared to fuel sales. The conversation also delves into the capabilities and limitations of AI in programming competitions, specifically highlighting its struggles with novel problem-solving scenarios. Additionally, they touch on the economics of graveyards, optimal stair height regulations, and potential future discussion topics, including sodium-ion batteries and the mechanics of lightning. This episode offers a fascinating intersection of technology, business, and everyday curiosities.

Check out Ajay’s Stuff:

EntryLevel: https://entrylevel.net

Website: https://ajays.quest

Check out Loong’s Stuff:

QDX: https://www.qdx.co/

Automera: https://automeratx.com/

00:00 Introduction and Initial Thoughts

00:24 Tech Industry Behind the Scenes

01:13 Pokemon Card Market Trends

02:53 Graveyard Economics

11:58 Optimal Stair Design

23:49 De-evolution of Technology

28:45 The Fragility of Modern Knowledge

29:34 Numeracy Skills in the Workplace

30:44 The Medical Test Paradox

33:58 AI's Limitations in Problem Solving

46:49 The Future of Service Stations

54:23 Upcoming Topics Teaser

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In this episode of Technocracy Podcast, hosts Ajay and Loong dive into the latest technological breakthroughs and discuss their implications for the future. They explore AI advances, including AI VTubers and autonomous scientific agents, and contemplate the potential for a company to achieve $100M in revenue with zero employees. The conversation covers emerging technologies, impactful business models, global tech trends, and personal tech finds that have enhanced productivity and creativity. Join them for a comprehensive review of 2024 and bold predictions for 2025.

Check out Ajay’s Stuff:

EntryLevel: https://entrylevel.net

Website: https://ajays.quest

Check out Loong’s Stuff:

QDX: https://www.qdx.co/

Automera: https://automeratx.com/

00:00 Introduction and Initial Thoughts on AI and Tech

00:39 Personal Tech Finds and AI Applications

01:02 Technocracy Podcast Kickoff and 2024 Tech Review

01:53 Gene Editing Breakthroughs and AI in Science

04:54 Coding with AI: Experiences and Insights

10:46 Emerging Technologies and Business Models

24:29 Influences and Surprising Innovations

38:32 The Humor of AI: A Surprising Experience

39:54 Investing in AI VTubers and Influencers

42:26 The Future of Chip Manufacturing and Next-Gen Nuclear

44:53 Exploring Autonomous Scientific Agents and AI in Healthcare

45:44 Victor Talon's Revolutionary Programming Language

51:16 Global Trends and the Impact of AI on Emerging Markets

57:55 Personal Tech Finds and AI Triaging

01:00:55 Skills to Develop in 2025: Coding and Molecular Physics

01:07:47 Bold Predictions for the Tech World in 2025

01:11:16 Wrapping Up: Future Plans for the Podcast

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In this episode of the Technocracy Podcast, hosts Ajay and Loon engage in a spirited conversation with Caleb from Proximity and Tech Safari. They explore various facets of angel investing, particularly in the African tech ecosystem. The discussion covers the importance of market validation, the pros and cons of raising venture capital, and the significance of building a strong reputation and content presence. Caleb also shares insights from his experiences with African startups and the lessons learned from different investment strategies. The episode offers a blend of industry specifics, investment wisdom, and personal experiences, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of deep technology and business.

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Check out Ajay’s Stuff:

EntryLevel: https://entrylevel.net

Website: https://ajays.quest

Check out Loong’s Stuff:

QDX: https://www.qdx.co/

Automera: https://automeratx.com/

--

00:00 Reflecting on Last Year's Hustle

00:49 Introduction to the Technocracy Podcast

01:05 Meet Caleb: African Tech Investor

03:24 Building a Reputation in Angel Investing

07:17 Investment Strategies and Market Focus

15:52 Challenges in African Tech Investments

30:53 The Reality of African Unicorns

37:21 Navigating Currency and Financial Challenges

37:55 Government Policies and Their Impact

39:19 Market vs. Founder: What's More Important?

40:11 The Importance of Opportunity Selection

40:44 Founder-Market Fit and Operational Skills

42:11 The Weight of Founder vs. Market

45:46 The Lines vs. Dots Mentality

46:14 The Velocity of Founders

51:34 The Importance of Rest and Sprint States

01:01:03 Reflections on Fundraising and Investment

01:11:04 Advice for Aspiring Investors

01:13:06 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

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In this episode of the Technocracy Podcast, Ajay dives into the complexities of venture capital and fundraising with guest Warwick. The conversation covers a range of topics including the importance of having dissenters in the investment process, the traits that separate exceptional founders from average ones, and the impact of market cycles on valuations.

Warwick shares his experiences from being on both sides of fundraising, his views on financial projections, and the role of investor relationships. They also touch on the psychological aspects of raising capital and offer insights into the startup ecosystem, notably in Australia. Ajay adds his own perspectives as a solo founder, making for a comprehensive discussion on the highs and lows of building and investing in startups.

Check out Ajay’s Stuff:

• EntryLevel: https://entrylevel.net
• Website: https://ajays.quest

Check out Loong’s Stuff:

• QDX: https://www.qdx.co/
• Automera: https://automeratx.com/

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Introduction to Fundraising and Innovation

00:39 Welcome to Technocracy Podcast

01:02 Meet Warwick: Fundraising Expert

02:00 Hot Takes on Fundraising

02:20 Investment Philosophy and Mistakes

05:05 Characteristics of Exceptional Founders

05:53 Lessons from Failed Ventures

07:59 Importance of Founder Selection

09:47 Qualitative Traits of Founders

23:47 The Role of Financial Projections

32:24 Choosing the Right Investors

41:40 The Importance of Founder Velocity

42:08 Building Investor Relationships

44:55 The Myth of Quick Capital Raises

46:13 The Value of Warm Introductions

48:45 Cold Outreach Strategies

53:27 Smart Money vs. Dumb Money

58:35 Is Venture Capital a Good Investment?

01:11:14 The State of MedTech Funding

01:13:01 Solo Founders vs. Co-Founders

01:18:21 Final Thoughts and Advice

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.