Podcasts

With the U.S. presidential election looming, ballots, voting machines and election security are again in the news. UVA's David Nemer joins Good Disruption hosts Yael Grushka-Cockayne and Mike Lenox to discuss the role that culture and trust play in the acceptance of electronic voting and the importance of protecting the entire electoral process.

Assistant professor Melanie Prengler discusses the powerful shift to remote work and the rise of digital nomads.

Utility-scale power plants have long dominated electricity distribution. Now, distributed energy resources (DERs) like rooftop solar are changing this model. DERs can disrupt the grid if poorly managed, but if integrated well, can enhance efficiency and resilience. This shift marks a significant change in how energy is generated and distributed.

Social media is one of the biggest and most controversial disruptions in the last decade, arguably the last several decades. Algorithms, meant to create a more personalized experience, are isolating users from diverse opinions and news sources. How ca we use AI and data to redefine the user experience on social media to achieve healthier outcomes?

AI companions are designed to support the individual but what is the impact on broader society? Don’t we as humans get something out of supporting each other?

How close are we to fully automated vehicles and how will transportation itself change as a result?

From the explosion of Generative AI to the evolution of the hybrid workplace, disruption has become the “norm” for business. How will business and society be shaped by disruption in 2024?

The proliferation of AI has given rise to fear of job replacement across many industries, including entertainment. The WGA and SAG-AFTRA went on strike, including in their demands protection from the use of AI by studios. Is this a real or perceived threat, and what is the potential impact on the consumer experience?

Remote work comes with emotional, societal and environmental benefits. Employees aren't tied to city centers with high costs of living, and reduced travel will lower greenhouse gas emissions. There are also benefits to firms, with research suggesting that remote workers are more productive. Yet challenges exist. How do we navigate this new normal?

What exactly is the metaverse? What are the challenges in building an interactive virtual world? Which technologies will get us there? How will players — particularly younger ones — be protected while engaging with others?