Exchanges: Unpacking the our economic future, one exchange at a Time
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Exchanges: Unpacking the our economic future, one exchange at a Time
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week on Exchanges, Merriden Varrall Special Advisor Geopolitics at KPMG South ASPAC and Head of geopolitical insights outfit Vantage Geopol joins us to explore the rise of populism and its far-reaching implications for markets, trade, and institutional trust.
We unpack how populism’s anti-establishment sentiment and ‘us versus them’ mentality are driving a new wave of protectionism, reshaping global politics and economic policy. Merriden shares insights into the growing challenges faced by international institutions, and the critical role businesses must play in rebuilding public trust.
The exchange also dives into Australia’s position in global trade, what rising populism means for economic diplomacy, and how politics, policy, and perception are converging to define the next era of global cooperation.
Follow Merriden here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/merriden-varrall-phd-maicd-ab96024/
Website: http://www.vantagegeoopl.com/
Follow Evan here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-lucas-44a25316/
Website: www.evanlucas.com.au
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/
Chapters
00:00 Understanding Populism and Its Impact
05:20 The Rise of Protectionism in Global Trade
12:02 Challenges for International Institutions
17:53 The Role of Business in a Populist Era
20:00 Tariffs and Economic Coercion
24:42 Strategic Economic Interventions
28:06 Future of Politics in a Populist Landscape
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Welcome to Season 3 of Exchanges
This Week’s Episode: Sarah Hunter on Inflation, Productivity, and Australia’s Economic Outlook from the inner thinking of the RAB
Sarah Hunter, Assistant Governor (Economic) and Chief Economist at the RBA, joins Exchanges to unpack the current state of inflation in Australia and what it means for households, businesses, and policymakers.
We discuss the RBA’s transition to monthly economic data, how AI is reshaping economic analysis, and the key productivity and growth challenges facing the nation. Sarah also shares insights into consumer confidence, monetary policy decisions, and why keeping a close eye on multiple indicators is crucial to balancing inflation control with sustainable growth.
To follow Sarah click here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-hunter-42526541/
Website: https://www.rba.gov.au/about-rba/people/ag-economic.html
To follow Evan click here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-lucas-44a25316/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/
Website: www.evanlucas.com.au
Chapters
00:00 Inflation Transition and Economic Outlook
06:13 Housing Market and Rental Inflation Concerns
12:49 AI's Role in Economic Analysis
15:11 Understanding Productivity in Australia
20:22 Growth Projections for the Australian Economy
27:03 Consumer Confidence and Economic Perceptions
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This week, Betsy Westcott, financial coach and former banker, joins us to share her journey from the world of banking to financial coaching and what she’s learned about the psychology of money along the way.
We dive into the disconnect between wealth and personal happiness, the dynamics of Australia’s housing market, and our cultural addiction to debt. Betsy explains why financial education is critical to breaking unhealthy money cycles and empowering individuals to make better choices.
We also explore the growing role of finfluencers in shaping financial behaviour, and Betsy shares her vision for a more financially confident and empowered society.
To follow Betsy click here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/betsywestcott/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betsywestcott/
Website: https://www.betsywestcott.com/
To follow Evan click here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-lucas-44a25316/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evanlucas_/
Website: www.evanlucas.com.au
Chapters
00:00 From Banking to Financial Coaching
03:02 Understanding Money Psychology
05:49 The Value Trap and Self-Worth
08:49 Housing Market Dynamics and Debt Addiction
12:04 Cultural Attitudes Towards Wealth
14:54 The Role of Influencers in Financial Education
17:51 Navigating Investment Strategies
20:56 The Risks of Negative Gearing
24:02 The Need for Financial Literacy
26:59 A Vision for Financial Education
29:57 Betsy’s Ideal Financial Revolution
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This week, Lawrence Lam joins us to explore the powerful role that founders play in shaping company success. We dive into the unique traits and decision-making styles that set founders apart, and how their intrinsic motivation drives long-term vision and resilience.
Lawrence unpacks the psychological side of corporate leadership, the risks that come with founder control, and why long-term incentives are essential in corporate governance.
Follow Lawrence here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawrence-lam-354b84bb/
Website: https://lumenaryinvest.com/
Book: https://lawrencelam.org/the-founder-effect/#buythefoundereffect
Follow Evan Here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-lucas-44a25316/
Instragram: https://www.instagram.com/evanlucas_/
website: www.evanlucas.com.au
Chapters
00:00 The Fascination with Founders
02:52 The Traits of Successful Founders
05:48 The Lego Case Study: A Masterclass in Alignment
09:36 The Risks of Founder Control
12:49 Identifying Founder Narcissism
15:50 Motivation: Intrinsic vs Extrinsic
19:51 Long-Term Thinking in Corporate Leadership
23:33 Incentives for Change in Corporate Australia
26:45 A Vision for the Future
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This week, John Addis joins us to examine the state of fundamental investing in today’s markets and the growing influence of AI in analysis and research.
The rise of passive investing, the opportunities (and risks) AI presents, and the historical parallels to the dot-com bubble. John also shares why learning from mistakes is central to building resilience as an investor.
At its core, John emphasises the need for a balanced, disciplined approach to investing—and the importance of not letting worry or fear dictate financial decisions.
To follow John click here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnaddis/
Book: https://majorstreet.com.au/products/how-not-to-lose-1-million-br-i-small-by-john-addis-i-small
To follow Evan click here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-lucas-44a25316/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evanlucas_/
Website: evanlucas.com.au
Chapters
00:00 The State of Fundamental Investing
02:59 The Impact of Passive Investing
05:54 AI's Role in Market Analysis
08:56 The Dot Com Bubble and AI Hype
11:46 Australia's Economic Landscape
14:43 The Future of Australian Companies
17:43 Regulatory Challenges in Capital Markets
20:33 The Role of Superannuation in Investment
23:45 Learning from Investment Mistakes
29:38 A Day in Charge: John Addis' Vision
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This week, on Exchange, Belinda Allen Senior Economist at Commonwealth Bank joins us to break down the current state of the Australian economy, from the RBA’s interest rate decisions and inflation trends to shifting consumer behaviour and the hurdles facing fiscal and tax reform.
We explore what these factors mean for business investment, economic recovery, and the ongoing energy transition, as well as the pressing issue of housing affordability across different states.
Follow Belinda here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/belinda-allen-1b322134/
Website: https://www.commbank.com.au/newsroom/contributors/Belinda-Allen.html
Follow Evan here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-lucas-44a25316/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evanlucas_/
Website: www.evanlucas.com.au
Chapters
00:00 RBA Rate Cuts and Economic Outlook
02:53 Inflation and Consumer Behaviour
05:54 Business Investment and Economic Recovery
08:52 Fiscal Policy and Economic Reform
11:44 Tax Reform Challenges
14:49 Energy Transition and Future Investments
17:59 State Performance and Housing Affordability
20:53 Final Thoughts on Housing and Planning
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This week, Joseph Healy, co-founder of Judo Bank, joins us to explore the enduring relevance of Adam Smith’s economic principles in today’s Australia.
We dive into the often-overlooked connection between economics and morality, the role of education in driving equality and productivity, and why businesses must start viewing employees as long-term assets, not just costs.
Joseph also shares his concerns about the profit-driven direction of universities, the challenges within our current education system, and how Smith’s thinking can help rebalance economic priorities with societal responsibility.
It’s a powerful reminder that good economics starts with good values
Follow Joesph here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-healy-6638974b/
Book: https://majorstreet.com.au/collections/new-release/products/what-would-adam-smith-make-of-modern-australia-br-i-small-by-joseph-healy-i-small
Follow Evan here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-lucas-44a25316/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evanlucas_/
website: https://evanlucas.com.au/
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This week, Rebecca Maher CEO & Founder, My Money Circle joins us to challenge the way we think about money. From her unexpected path into finance to her work in financial coaching, Rebecca dives into the real, human side of money how we behave, what we fear, and why it's rarely just about numbers.
We explore Australia’s money culture, the rise of DIY finance, and why we need to be define wealth beyond just dollars in the bank. Rebecca also shares why embedding financial support into everyday systems could be the key to helping more people feel confident and in control.
Follow Rebecca here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-maher/
Website: https://www.mymoneycircle.au/
Follow Evan here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-lucas-44a25316/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evanlucas_/
Website: www.evanlucas.com.au
Chapters
00:00 Rebecca's Journey into Money Management
03:38 The Behavioural Aspects of Money
14:27 The Shift Towards DIY Finance
16:54 Understanding Wealth Beyond Capital
29:48 A Vision for Financial Support in Australia
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This week, Alan Oster, former Group Chief Economist at NAB, joins Exchanges to unpack the Reserve Bank’s latest interest rate decision and what it signals for the broader economy.
We dive into the housing market, cost of living crisis, and the pressing need for structural reform particularly in taxation and housing supply.
Alan also shares insights on the economic role of superannuation, strategies to boost productivity, and how Australia can position itself for stronger, more inclusive growth.
It’s a timely and practical conversation on the forces shaping our economic future.
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This week, Michael Masterson Co-founder of Intrinsika joins us to explore the concept of intrinsic value and why understanding a company’s intrinsic assets is critical for long-term growth and sustainability.
Michael unpacks his 90-9-1 rule for evaluating value, the role of boards in driving innovation, and the challenges of preserving founder energy as businesses mature.
Get your pens and notebooks out for this one it’s an amazing episode
To follow Michael click here
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeldmasterson/
Website: https://www.intrinsika.com/
To follow Evan click here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-lucas-44a25316/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evanlucas_/
Website: https://evanlucas.com.au/
Chapters
00:00 Understanding Intrinsic Value
04:55 The Concept of Intrinsic Assets
08:53 Evaluating Company Value: The 90-9-1 Rule
14:57 The Role of Boards in Business Growth
20:21 Innovation and Risk in Business
30:06 Maintaining Founder Value in Established Companies
32:13 Transforming Education for Future Entrepreneurs
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This week on Exchanges, the brilliant Tim Loh, Assistant Commissioner of the Australian Taxation Office. But this isn’t an Exchange on tax, Tim has joined me to share his personal journey from introverted public speaker to media spokesperson and senior leader. Tim opens up about overcoming the challenges of public speaking, managing imposter syndrome, and the importance of authenticity in leadership.
We discuss workplace culture, the need for work-life balance to avoid burnout, and how small, consistent actions can build lasting confidence. Tim also reflects on resilience in the face of criticism and how he leads teams with clarity, empathy, and purpose.
To Follow Tim Click Here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-loh-632a7919/
Website: https://www.timloh.com.au/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tloh/
To Follow Evan Click Here:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/evan-lucas-44a25316
Website: evanlucas.com.au
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evanlucas_/
Chapters
00:00 Navigating the Media Landscape
02:52 Leadership Insights and Authenticity
05:56 The Power of Three: Communication Tools
08:57 Confronting Imposter Syndrome
11:43 Burnout and Work-Life Balance
14:58 The Impact of COVID on Work Culture
17:50 Managing Hybrid Work Environments
20:45 Building Confidence Through Action
23:47 Resilience in the Face of Criticism
27:00 A Day in Charge: Spreading Kindness
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This week, Cameron Kusher joins me on Exchanges to unpack the complex forces shaping the Australian housing market. From the economics of supply and demand to the impact of government policy, negative gearing lending and everything in between.
We explore affordability challenges, the future of stamp duty, and the growing appeal of rentvesting among younger Australians. Cameron also makes the case for a stronger non-market housing sector and the need for public-private partnerships to deliver sustainable, affordable housing solutions and tackle the rising risk of homelessness. This episode is not to be missed
Follow Cameron Here:
Substack: https://cameronkusher.substack.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-kusher-bbb71b46/
Follow Evan Here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-lucas-44a25316/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evanlucas_/
Website: https://evanlucas.com.au/
Chapters
00:00 Current State of the Housing Market
04:26 Demand Dynamics in Housing
07:06 The Greater Fool Theory in Real Estate
10:40 Housing as an Asset vs. Home
12:37 Government Policies and Housing Affordability
16:00 Challenges in Housing Supply
19:11 Productivity in Construction
20:01 The Role of Stamp Duty
24:43 Negative Gearing and Its Implications
31:03 The Rise of Rentvesting
34:41 Vision for Affordable Housing
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This week, Stephen Koukoulas, Managing Director at Market Economics joins Exchanges on what’s keeping him up at night, Trump-era tariffs on global trade, the impact on the Australia–China relationship, business confidence, and consumer sentiment.
Stephen also unloads his insights into the structural challenges facing the Australian economy particularly inflation, energy prices, and the pressing need for tax and superannuation reform to support more equitable wealth distribution.
Follow Stephen here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-koukoulas-39177142/
Website: https://thekouk.com/
X:@TheKouk
Follow Evan here:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/evan-lucas-44a25316
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evanlucas_/
Website: evanlucas.com.au
Chapters
00:00 Global Trade and Tariffs Impact
02:52 Consumer Confidence and Economic Growth
05:44 Energy Prices and Inflation Concerns
08:54 Taxation and Structural Changes
12:53 Superannuation and Wealth Distribution
19:30 Capital Growth and Tax Implications
20:52 Superannuation and Retirement Funding
23:56 Fiscal Policy vs. Monetary Policy
24:41 Interest Rate Projections
27:50 RBA's Conservative Approach
30:41 Global Comparisons in Monetary Policy
32:53 A Day in Charge: Economic Reforms
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This week, Danni Hunter, social futurist and infrastructure expert, joins us to explore the links infrastructure, community, and societal progress bring. The big exchange for Danni is how do we get government, industry, and communities to address key challenges like the housing crisis, energy transition, and urban development.
We look at the cultural shift of the “home” and unpacks the policy, tax and investment frameworks needed to support and create long term social growth.
Follow Danni Here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danni-hunter/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/huntercollective_/
Website: https://www.huntercollective.org/
Follow Evan Here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-lucas-44a25316/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evanlucas_/
Website: https://evanlucas.com.au/
Chapters
00:00 The Role of a Social Futurist
02:56 Infrastructure and Society: A Complex Relationship
05:52 The Chicken and Egg of Infrastructure Investment
09:05 Private Investment in Public Infrastructure
12:07 Housing Crisis and Infrastructure Needs
15:03 NIMBY vs. YIMBY: Changing Community Perspectives
17:55 The Home as an Asset: Cultural Implications
21:03 Taxation and Housing Supply Challenges
24:09 Energy Transition and Its Economic Impact
27:06 The Future of Energy: Balancing Ideology and Reality
30:06 Unlocking Wage Potential in a Digital Age
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This week on Exchanges, Michelle Bowden, the leader in persuasion and communication, joins us to unpack the power of authentic, effective communication in driving business and leadership success. She breaks down the difference between influence and persuasion, and explains why adapting your style to suit different stakeholders is essential in today’s fast-moving world.
We explore the role of AI and social media in shaping how we communicate, the growing challenge of echo chambers, and the decline of traditional presentation skills in the digital age.
Follow Michelle Here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellebowdenenterprises/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_michellebowden/
Website: https://michellebowden.com.au/
Follow Evan Here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-lucas-44a25316/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evanlucas_/
Website: https://evanlucas.com.au/
Chapters
00:00 The Importance of Persuasion in Business
02:55 Understanding Influence vs. Persuasion
05:58 The Communication Styles of Influential Figures
08:59 The Role of Authenticity in Leadership Communication
12:06 AI's Impact on Communication and Presentation
14:54 The Balance of Technology and Personal Touch in Communication
18:04 The Art of Persuasion: Understanding Communication Styles
22:28 The Impact of Social Media on Influence
26:45 Echo Chambers and Communication Challenges
30:51 The Decline of Presentation Skills in the Digital Age
34:36 A Vision for Kindness in Communication
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This week, Rob Carson Founder of Canopy East joins us to explore the evolving landscape of financial advice in Australia, highlighting a shift toward a more holistic, family-centric approach. We discuss the growing importance of addressing intergenerational wealth transfer, understanding family dynamics, and encouraging open conversations about money.
We also jump into the regulatory challenges facing advisers, the role of fixed income in long-term planning, and the social stigma often tied to family financial support.
Follow Rob Here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertjmcarson/
Website: https://www.canopyeast.com.au/
X: : https://x.com/Canopy_East
Follow Evan Here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-lucas-44a25316/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evanlucas_/
Website: https://evanlucas.com.au/
Chapters
00:00 The Evolution of Financial Advice
03:00 Holistic Wealth Management
06:01 Intergenerational Wealth Transfer
08:59 The Role of Fixed Income in Wealth Planning
12:13 The Bank of Mum and Dad
14:46 Family Dynamics and Wealth
18:07 Conversations About Money
21:03 The Importance of Family Values
24:01 Final Thoughts on Family Wealth
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This week, consumer futurist Amanda Stevens joins us to explore the rapid transformation of consumer behaviour in a world reshaped by digital acceleration. From the rise of experiential spending over ownership to the growing influence of AI on how brands engage with their audiences, Amanda offers expert insight into what’s driving today’s purchasing decisions—particularly among millennials and Gen Z.
We dive into the critical role of brand trust, not just in the commercial world but also in political branding, and how shifting values are reshaping expectations of leadership, service, and authenticity.
Amanda also makes a compelling case for education reform, arguing that to future-proof younger generations, we must teach essential life and financial skills that align with the demands of a fast-changing world.
Follow Amanda here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marketingamanda/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stories/marketingamanda/3631491497381964939/
Website: https://amandastevens.com.au/
Follow Me here:
LinkedIn:https://lnkd.in/gbqaSuBZ
Instagram: https://lnkd.in/guJqhENY
Website: www.evanlucas.com.au
Chapters
00:00 Understanding Consumer Behaviour in a Digital Age
02:57 Political Branding and Consumer Trust
05:57 The Impact of Generational Shifts on Consumption
08:53 Experiential Spending: The New Consumer Mindset
11:57 The Role of AI in Consumer Engagement
14:59 Education and the Future of Skills Development
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This week, Greg McKenna, CEO of Police Bank, joins us to explore the evolving landscape of Australian lending and its impact on housing affordability. We discuss the challenges posed by current lending regulations, the need for innovative lending products, and the critical role of increasing housing supply to ensure future generations can achieve home ownership.
Greg also shares insights into the competitive banking sector, the potential of AI to transform operations, and the importance of regulatory frameworks that support both consumer protection and access to credit.
Follow Greg here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-mckenna-3a963922/
X: https://x.com/gregorymckenna
Website: https://www.policebank.com.au/executive-leadership-team
Follow Me here:
LinkedIn:https://lnkd.in/gbqaSuBZ
Instagram: https://lnkd.in/guJqhENY
Website: www.evanlucas.com.au
Chapters
00:00 The Lending Landscape in Australia
07:16 Government's Role in Housing Affordability
12:01 Supply vs. Demand in the Housing Market
14:40 The Need for Innovative Lending Products
20:20 Competition in the Banking Sector
26:23 The Impact of AI on Banking
27:04 Regulation and Its Effects on the Banking Industry
33:37 Building a Future: The Importance of Housing
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This week on Exchanges, I'm joined by Kieran Gilbert, Chief News Anchor at Sky News, to unpack the current state of the Australian election landscape. From low voter engagement and thin policy debates to the growing prominence of housing affordability, Kieran offers a front-line perspective on what’s shaping the national conversation.
We explore the increasing scrutiny on political leaders, the influence of international relations on domestic policy, and the structural challenges facing modern governance. Kieran also reflects on the need for stronger leadership accountability and greater transparency in political discourse, as Australia heads into a critical electoral period.
Follow Kieran here:
Website: https://www.skynews.com.au/the-team/kieran-gilbert
X: @Kieran_Gilbert
Follow Me here:
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-lucas-44a25316/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evanlucas_/
Website: www.evanlucas.com.au
You can buy my book Mind over Money here: https://lnkd.in/gxtsgt95
Chapters
00:00 Election Atmosphere and Voter Engagement
02:48 Policy Discussions and Economic Strategies
05:47 Housing as a Central Election Issue
08:53 Scrutiny and the Role of Independents
12:09 International Relations and Domestic Impact
14:54 Future of Governance and Structural Reform
17:59 Leadership and Political Accountability
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This week on Exchanges, I am joined by one of the most cerebral digital thinkers around - Steve Sammartino. Steve explores the cultural shifts that have and are being driven by tech giants, the rise of AI, and how algorithms are reshaping public discourse.
We dive into the importance of open-source technology, the future of work in an AI-powered world, and the growing political influence of corporations. Steve also calls for urgent reform in political funding to protect the integrity of our democracy in the digital age.
Follow Steve here:
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevesammartino/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sammartino/
Website: https://www.youtube.com/user/SuperAwesomeMicro
Follow Me here:
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-lucas-44a25316/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evanlucas_/
Website: www.evanlucas.com.au
You can buy my book Mind over Money here: https://lnkd.in/gxtsgt95
Chapters
00:00 The Role of Tech Companies in Cultural Decline
02:58 The Evolution of the Digital Age
05:53 The Impact of Algorithms and Polarisation
09:05 The Rise of AI and Open Source
12:03 The Future of Work in an AI-Driven World
26:10 Political Influence and Corporate Power
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