We recently connected with Matthew Chavira and have shared our conversation below.
Matthew, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
I relentlessly followed by passions, and and have been on a lifelong mission of continuous learning.
Since I was young I have always held a deeply passionate view about the societal impact of technology. I had always admired pioneers advancing humanitys understanding of the natural world. One such individual was the theoretical physicist, Michio Kaku. A pioneer in the field of string theory, and I closely followed his work.
My purpose emerged from a serendipitous encounter over a decade ago, when I found myself seated next to Ben Goertzel, a renowned AI researcher, on a plane. I recalled Ben from a an episode of ‘Sci-Fi Science’ hosted by Michio Kaku. The show discusses the scientific principles behind ‘Sci-Fi’ type technologies, one of them being artificial intelligence.
When Ben Goertzel appeared on Kaku’s TV show, discussing cutting-edge AI advancements, I was captivated by his insights.
This chance meeting ignited a deep conversation about AI, robotics, and the transformative potential of technology. Little did I know that this conversation would shape the trajectory of my career.
Years later, Ben, now serving as the chief scientist at Hanson Robotics, remembered our conversation and recommended me to David Hanson, the CEO, as someone who could effectively convey the company’s mission to the world. This led to an opportunity to join Hanson Robotics and spearhead the promotion of Sophia, the world’s most famous humanoid robot.
Through my work with Sophia, I had the privilege of collaborating with influential figures in the AI community and participating in the most prestigious conferences worldwide. This experience not only expanded my network but also deepened my understanding of the field and its implications for society.
Drawing on this network I developed through my work with Sophia and recognizing the need to provide accurate and insightful information about AI, I founded Prophets of AI, a platform dedicated to representing prominent voices in the AI landscape.
Today, I am honored to work alongside trailblazers actively shaping the future of AI and to contribute to meaningful conversations that address the ethical, social, and cultural dimensions of technology.
My journey from a chance encounter to advocating for responsible AI reflects my commitment to leveraging technology for the betterment of humanity as well as proof that following your passions can lead to the kind of life you want to build for yourself.
Prophets of AI now represents some of the most prominent names in AI across all of the humanities, including The Chair for Human AI Interaction at IEEE, UN Digital Government Advisors, World Economic Forum Future Council Members and individuals featured in Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential in AI.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I have the privilege of representing some of the most influential figures in the field of artificial intelligence through my company, Prophets of AI. What excites me most about my work is the opportunity to amplify voices that are shaping the future of technology and its impact on society.
At Prophets of AI, we are dedicated to providing society with trusted insights into the often-overlooked ethical, social, and cultural implications of AI technologies. Our mission is to foster meaningful conversations that address the complexities of AI in a rapidly evolving, tech saturated world.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is witnessing how diverse the perspectives and innovative ideas within the AI community are. From renowned researchers to industry leaders, and even controversial technologists- each individual I represent brings a unique perspective and expertise to the table, contributing to a richer understanding of AI’s potential and challenges.
As for our brand, Prophets of AI is committed to promoting ethical AI practices and advocating for responsible innovation. We strive to bridge the gap between technology and humanity, empowering individuals and organizations to navigate the AI landscape with integrity and foresight.
In terms of new developments, we are constantly exploring opportunities to expand our reach and impact. From hosting thought-provoking events to launching initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion in AI, we are committed to driving positive change in the field.
I fully believe that by encouraging collaboration and dialogue, humanity can harness the transformative power of AI to solve some of the longest standing problems we have had to contend with.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
A quest for knowledge. No matter what age you are, never be content with what you know. Accept the fact that you don’t have all the answers and be willing to abandon long-held beliefs should evidence to the contrary of them surface. It is very rare that someone is naturally gifted (the polymaths of the past like DaVinci, Bach, Hildegard Von Bingen, etc.) most of the intellectual or artistically talented people we admire have to work incredibly hard at their craft. They are relentless and they are all defined by a constant quest to better themselves, and it’s this which defines them.
Find your passion- explore it from every angle and never stop. Try to actively uncover ways you can get involved in your passion and dedicate as much time to it as you are able amidst the rest of life’s necessities. You never know where your passion will lead you, but you will never find out if you don’t try to uncover it.
Thanks so much for sharing all these insights with us today. Before we go, is there a book that’s played in important role in your development?
I have always been drawn to antique literature. Specifically literature written in the early to mid 19th century. The writing from that time emerged as humanity was going through an immense transition and awakening. It was the first time in all of human history where we actually started to encounter technology. The world was becoming smaller, and more fast passed due to mass communication and feats of engineering.
These conditions led to what I believe are some of the greatest works of literature ever produced. The time period was also significant as it led to the development of the ‘Decadent Movement’, primarily advanced by French and English authors. The movement is defined by the strong push away from societal convention.
The decadent authors were truly brave, often facing persecution and incarceration in service of liberating our innate right to write about topics considered taboo. Subjects that included the darker aspects of humanity, such as murder, violence and desire, but that also encompassed what is now generally accepted as human rights such as the ability to love whomever one wishes, and declare it publicly, without fear of prosecution.
The decadends liberated humanities artistic freedom. And the world is so much richer and vibrant because of their contributions.
My favorite novel emerging from its time is considered quintessential Decadent literature, and one of the preeminint works of fin-de-siecle Frace literature; ‘Agaist Nature’ by Joris Karl Hyusmans.
Its a novel that contains a single character, a sort of emaciated feeble aristocrat who decides to lock himself away in his mansion, which is filled with the most ornante, exotic and profoundly sophisticated material possessions, which include paintings, books, tea, flowers, jewelry and religious music.
And ruminating on all the conjured anecdotes they inspire from his life.
The book expanded my appreciation for how many specialties exist, as well as introducing me to so much of the world that I would have otherwise never come across. Its these type of mind expanding experiences that lead to a deeper sense of appreciation.
Contact Info:
- Website: prophetsofai.com
- Instagram: prophetsofai
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewchavira/
