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On the 11th Episode of the MentalUpdate Podcast I talk with musician and artist Booty & Soul. He describes his vision as one that brings value through conscious art. However, Dave's message and wisdom transcends his music. We can get into a really interesting conversation about the reality of nature, and misconceptions in our current culture. We talk about the creative process, and the power of art as therapy. Finally, we get into what a peaceful future looks like, and what are some of the bigger obstacles in our way of achieving this future. This is one of those conversations where the value is in the details. So check out our conversation, and let us know what peaked your curiosity the most! You can check Booty & Soul out on Spotify and iTunes -> https://open.spotify.com/artist/2VPAL59OwdYsl5var8IgP8 To Download or Listen on other Platforms: Podcast – http://www.buzzsprout.com/195209 Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/3bRgsPtKKaYZFPW5aZFsWk iTunes –https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-mentalupdate/id1386319885?mt=2&ign-mpt=uo%3D4

On this episode we discuss the current state of artificial intelligence and how it may impact the workforce in the future. There are a lot of current predictions on how AI will change our economic landscape, however these are JUST predictions. We try to focus our discussion on actual progress being made in the field, while calling attention to common narratives that are just theories. One of the most potential damaging ideas is the promise of conscious AI. While this topic lends itself well to fiction, we have to keep in mind it is a fundamental unknown. We can not assume that we will be able to develop intelligent AI until actual research / evidence confirms us. Check out this episode for more on our predictions, and how to approach the consciousness of artificial intelligence.

We have a really good episode here, it may actually be my favorite conversation to date! There seems to be a pattern within social media where well-intended social movements like #blacklivesmatter or #metoo, which begin quite genuinely, get off-base and skewed quickly. This is primarily due to the polarizing nature of social media's algorithms. So even if a social movement starts off with good intentions, it can quickly become illegitimate. It is a pattern we keep seeing time and again, and has a very powerful impact on our culture and society. I really think this conversation is something we should at least be aware of to better reflect on our behavior and ideology. So check out this week's episode, and let us know where else do you see this pattern? To find other hosting services click here: http://smarturl.it/MentalUpdatePodcast

Recently there has been a lot of talk about what information technology companies know about you. While we move about online our behaviors and preferences are tracked and recorded. We often hear that our information is primarily used to find content and products we would like. However, the implications of letting tech companies determine what we see online are drastic. On this episode we talk about how a well-intended technological philosophy resulted in the current state of the internet we see today. Then we touch on how our personal data is being tracked, and more importantly how our data may be used to modify our behavior. Additionally, we touch on how our data could actually increase our wellbeing if we just slightly redesign our business models or algorithms. We also get into what platforms and technologies are being created to counteract the negative effects of personal data collection. You can find your favorite podcast provider and subscribe: smarturl.it/MentalUpdatePodcast

Today we explore the world of lab grown meat, and even more thought-provoking the ethics behind the industry. What are the requirements to be "meat"? Can you be a vegetarian / vegan and still eat lab grown meats?  Is the impact to those working in the agricultural industry worth the environmental, health, and humane benefits? Are religious institutions going have to consider and redefine what falls under their doctrine? Andrew and I really approach this topic from a lot of unique angles, so check out this episode and let us know what resonated with you! Also don't forget to look out for the last few episodes of the digital ethics series coming the following weeks.  You can check out the first episode  of the Digital Ethics Series here

Our 6th episode of the MentalUpdate Podcast is also our FIRST episode of a short series we are doing surrounding digital ethics. over the next few weeks we will be discusses the ethical concerns and philosophy of the most prominent emerging technologies. Particularity, how to best integrate these innovations into our society, and also the guidelines we require from these technologies. Tune in each week to listen to episodes around the ethics of: AI Smart Homes / Sustainability of Tech Produce / Live Stock / Lab Grown Meat Autonomous Cars Personal Data / Digital Personhood ... If there is any topics or ideas you have comment below, or check out the blog at thementalupdate.com

Today on the MentalUpdate Podcast we discuss a recent study which found that a once a week training about mindfulness techniques was impactful enough to increase participants daily activity. So engaging in mindfulness training and practice was able to make people more willing to be active. (i.e take the stairs, work in their yard, etc) Then we get into how these interventions and increased activity levels can help reduce symptoms of depression. We also get into mainstream thoughts on alternative antidepressants (non-medication), and how technology can be used in these new models of mental health interventions.  At the end we discuss a few final questions. We would love to hear your input below! Will people buy into mindfulness if more research supports its ability to increase physical activity? How seriously does mainstream thought believe exercise / activity works as a genuine antidepressant? What technological tools and applications can be used now to help with this?

On the fourth episode of the MentalUpdate Podcast we talk about the current state of digital mental health tools, as well as developing platforms. Right now the healthcare primary relies on electronic medical records to gain new perspectives on patients. However, as we shift from this eHealth period to iHealth (intelligent health) we will need new criteria to judge and choose our clinical / wellness tools. Check out the episode to see how we can navigate this transition.

On this week's episode we talk about how emerging technologies will evolve and reimagine human-machine interactions. Particularity, we get into research on the effectiveness of robot companions for our elderly, how food supply lines may change, and if machine intelligence can ever empathize or demonstrate with the human condition. If you are interested in participating in digital wellbeing experiment with us comment below. We plan to begin experimenting with modern hacks for mental wellbeing. To show if these hacks are actually working we are going to take some baseline measure at the beginning of the experiment and one after. If this sounds fun and interesting to you definitely reach out to us in the comments! Enjoy!

Welcome to the second episode of the MentalUpdate Podcast! On today's episode we talk about Virtual Reality, Social Exclusion, and Empathy. First we discuss how virtual worlds can be used clinically, and then talk more on how they might be used for personal growth. We also get into social exclusion, and how that may be a risk factor for mental health conditions. Lastly, we explore ways new technology can aid in helping people feel genuinely socially connected. Look out for future episodes on Thursdays from now on! Also if you are interested in joining our mental hack experiments please comment below or on the blog. (We will be exploring digital tricks and solutions that can benefit our wellbeing, and want to get you to join us. This way we can have more data / evidence showing us tips and tricks work best. Helping us spread the best information.) Comment below with interest!

Welcome to the first episode of the MentalUpdate Podcast. A conversation centered around the future, technology, and your mental wellbeing. On today's episode we introduce the podcast, and talk about the emerging trend of big tech companies increasing their consideration of mental health. Take a listen