What does it really mean to stay human in a world dominated by AI?
In this powerful episode of Kasa Connect, we sit down with Shae O. — Harvard PhD candidate, historian, and founder of Analog Social. From her unconventional journey through law, politics, and ballet to founding a startup incubated at Harvard’s Innovation Lab, Shae unpacks what it means to build human-first systems in a tech-saturated age.
We talk about AI ethics, community building, redefining productivity, and how to stay grounded in your own rhythm while navigating the digital noise. If you’re an entrepreneur, student, or just overwhelmed by tech — this episode will reframe your thinking.
00:00 – Staying Human in an AI World
00:48 – From Historian to Entrepreneur
02:06 – Discovering Entrepreneurship and Harvard Innovation Labs
02:54 – Nontraditional Founders in Tech
04:08 – Founding Analog Social
05:39 – Phone Stacking and First Events
06:37 – Dinner Salons and Defining Love
08:02 – Diversity and Community at Analog Social
08:44 – Childhood Influences and Love for History
11:05 – Daydreaming, Deep Thinking, and Digital Distraction
12:03 – Balancing Technology and Human Connection
13:22 – Supporting Founders with Social Media Balance
13:58 – AI Industry Curiosity and the Renaissance Manifesto
15:10 – Nontraditional Founders and the Startup Ecosystem
16:57 – The AI Bubble and Gold Rush Analogy
18:21 – AI Tools and Generative Agents
19:22 – Potential and Risks of AI Agents
19:55 – Legal and Ethical Questions for AI Agents
21:08 – Need for Human-Centric AI Ethics
22:30 – The Human Kill Switch Concept
24:53 – US vs. UK/EU AI Regulation
26:22 – AI and Children: Regulation and Education
28:42 – Critical Thinking in the Age of AI
32:13 – Educating on AI’s Limits and Nuanced Messaging
33:54 – Personal Approach: Solutions First
35:21 – Defining What It Means to Be Human
36:30 – Life in Seasons and Human Operating System
38:21 – Call to Educate Yourself on AI
39:45 – Favorite Café Drink
40:19 – Advice: Make the Most of Every Season