Futurism at JHU Podcast

#64 – How Algorithms Shape Our Decisions with Dr. Ziang Xiao

It’s no cliché to say that technology touches nearly every facet of our lives, but how is new tech impacting us from behind the scenes? Aimee and Gordon sit down with Dr. Ziang Xiao, Assistant Professor in the Department of Computer Science at Johns Hopkins University, to explore how algorithms influence the choices we make every day. Dr. Xiao shares how machine learning systems shape the information we see, what consumers risk when relying on information-based products, and why your chatbot may be more eager to please than you think. Tune in for an engaging discussion on the hidden impact of technology on our screens, our choices, and our daily lives!

#63 – Thinking Three Moves Ahead: Mentorship and Life Strategy with Carlos J. Avent

What does it mean to think three moves ahead? Andrew Wu sits down with Carlos J. Avent, Senior Academic Advisor/Success Coach at Johns Hopkins University, to explore mentorship, student success, and the future of education. Avent shares how design thinking, responsible AI use, and intentional advising can help students navigate college and life with purpose. Listen in to learn why the future of education depends on both responsible technology and meaningful human connection.

#62 – The Future of Speech with Dr. Melissa Stockbridge

Why do words get stuck on the tip of our tongue? Joseph Brodsky sits down with Dr. Melissa Stockbridge, assistant professor of neurology and speech-language pathologist, to explore the future of speech and language care. Dr. Stockbridge shares insights from her research on language disorders like aphasia, exploring how telemedicine, brain stimulation, and pharmacological approaches may support language recovery and expand access to care. Listen in to learn how the brain adapts after injury and why early stroke intervention remains critical.

#61 – The Future of Generative AI and Medical Imaging with Dr. Peirong Liu

What happens when generative AI meets medical imaging? Aimee sits down with Dr. Pierong Liu, assistant professor in Johns Hopkins University’s Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and the Data Science and AI Institute, to discuss how AI systems can work across imaging modalities, improve lower-quality scans, and support more personalized care through virtual patients and digital twins. Their conversation explores the promise of AI as a clinical assistant, the policy and privacy challenges ahead, and how cross-disciplinary collaboration at JHU is helping shape the future of healthcare.

#60 – Exploring the Minds of Spiders with Dr. Andrew Gordus

Spiders are more than superheroes: they are capable of a so-called “internal state” that directs our everyday behaviors and motivations. Dr. Andrew Gordus is an assistant professor at Johns Hopkins’ biology department, exploring the genetic and molecular mechanisms of behavior. Join us as Joseph Brodsky delves deeper into the behavioral nuances across the animal kingdom and how our eight-legged friends can help us gain a greater understanding of our own minds.