
Futurist and Author David Mattin on Technology, AI, and Human Behavior
About this episode
In today’s episode, futurist David Mattin, co-founder of The Exponentialist, discusses the evolving role of technology in shaping human behavior. From AI to robotics, David shares insights into how these innovations fulfill timeless human desires and the ethical challenges they bring. Whether you’re leading a business or exploring future trends, David offers practical advice on harnessing technology to drive meaningful change.
We all wish we had a better grasp on upcoming trends. Better yet, wouldn’t it be great to have a framework to anticipate trends, i.e. see into the future? If so, you'll love futurist, David Mattin. Among other topics, David and I cover:
• What is the critical role of understanding human needs in predicting the future?
• What is the evolving relationship between technology and human behavior?
• How are technologies like AI are not just tools but partners in fulfilling age-old human desires like connection, status, and convenience?
• What are the ethical challenges of rapid innovation, the decentralization of AI, and its impact on governance, creativity, and the workplace?
I hope you enjoy David’s thought-provoking perspectives and roadmap for thriving in a world shaped by exponential technological change!
David’s Bio:
David Mattin writes about the trends, ideas, innovations, and people set to reshape our shared future.
His work delves into the evolving relationship between technology and human behavior. With a rich background in journalism and history, David transitioned from covering technological revolutions at The Times to consulting global brands on the impact of emerging innovations. He is also co-founder of The Exponentialist, a research service created with RealVision that explores the exponential age of technology. David is passionate about helping individuals and organizations navigate transformative trends in AI, robotics, and beyond.
He gives practical and inspiring talks that bring these ideas to life and works with leading organisations to orient their innovation around the trends and futures scenarios that matter.
At the heart of his work is an attempt to understand this version of technological modernity. What is its nature? Where is it leading us? How can we make that future better for everyone?
His writing has appeared everywhere from The Times, to Quartz, to Google Think Quarterly, and David has written and presented documentaries for BBC Radio 4. Previously, David sat on the World Economic Forum's Global Future Council on Consumption.
Get every episode summarized
Each time The Bob Johnston Podcast publishes, we email you a written briefing from the transcript — the topics, who appeared, and any specific claims, with the ad reads skipped.
Email me new episodesFree for 3 shows. No card needed.
Hosts & guests
No transcript yet
This episode has not been transcribed. Request it and it moves to the front of the queue.
More episodes
More from The Bob Johnston Podcast

The Intersection of Tech, Policy, and Leadership with Evan Burfield & Miles Tayl...
The Bob Johnston Podcast

Redefining Leadership and Organizational Culture with Dov Seidman
The Bob Johnston Podcast

Ann Dunkin on Leadership, Innovation, and Building a Sustainable Future
The Bob Johnston Podcast

Pigment CEO, Eleonore Crespo – on Startup Scaling & Leadership Growth
The Bob Johnston Podcast