In episode 2, Andrew talks to Dr Vivienne Ming, theoretical neuroscientist and AI visionary, about the power of sacrifice, and using science to make a positive difference in the world.

Vivienne calls herself a “professional mad scientist” who is dedicated to solving some of the world's most pressing problems. In 2017 she created Socos Labs, which she calls a “philanthropic laboratory”. Socos is an independent think tank and incubator that uses machine learning, neuroscience and economics to explore the future of human potential.

Says Vivienne: “People bring me problems and if my team and I think we can make a meaningful difference we try to come up with a solution. And then if we succeed we just give it away. Turns out it’s the worst start-up idea ever!”

Her path to being on the vanguard of new thinking has not been straightforward, or always easy. But it has made her a leader who puts the wellbeing of others at the heart of everything she does.

“I know what it’s like to not to know where your next meal is coming from or to have given up entirely, so that gives me a different perspective on what it means to be a CEO or someone in a position to make a difference.”

Featuring:

Dr Andrew White, Senior Fellow of Management Practice, Saïd Business School, University of Oxford.

Dr Vivienne Ming (@neuraltheory), CEO, Socos Labs.

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