Responsible Bytes

Dr Zena Assaad

Welcome to the Responsible Bytes podcast, where we talk about all things safe and responsible technology.

Technology is changing our world and the way we live in it. In this podcast we explore what those changes look like and what they mean for our present and our future. Listen in as I chat to people working in and around the technology sector, unpacking our increasingly complex and evolving digital world.

Responsible Bytes is created and hosted by Dr Zena Assaad.

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S2 · E8
Yesterday · 51 min
Exploring the Ethics of War through The Odyssey with Neil Renic
In this episode of the Responsible Bytes Podcast, Dr. Zena Assaad speaks with Dr. Neil Renic about Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey and what the story reveals about the moral and psychological costs of war. They explore how heroic narratives can obscure civilian suffering, how moral injury affects those returning from conflict, and how ideas like “war is hell” or “the ends justify the means” can weaken accountability for human choices. The conversation also examines military apologism, the dangers of othering adversaries, the long-term consequences of war crimes, and the ways technology can distance people from the effects of their actions. Together, they ask what modern audiences can learn from The Odyssey about responsibility, ethical decision-making, and the importance of recognising the humanity of those affected by violence. Links from this episode: 🔗 The Tragicized Politics of Nuclear Weapons and Armed Drones and the Making of Unaccountability: https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/ethics-and-international-affairs/article/tragedy-trap-on-the-tragicized-politics-of-nuclear-weapons-and-armed-drones-and-the-making-of-unaccountability/4C3EFB8C0A5C9A822D63BC61BEB001EE 🔗 Dirty hands, savage enemies, and bad apples: A taxonomy of war crimes apologia: https://www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/DE05B66AA9FC46D504B5E39CD708E213/S0260210525101472a.pdf/dirty_hands_savage_enemies_and_bad_apples_a_taxonomy_of_war_crimes_apologia.pdf 🔗The Guardian article - AI got the blame for the Iran school bombing. The truth is far more worrying: https://www.theguardian.com/news/2026/mar/26/ai-got-the-blame-for-the-iran-school-bombing-the-truth-is-far-more-worrying More about our guest: 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neilcrenic/ 🔵BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/ncrenic.bsky.social 🌐Website: https://www.neilrenic.com/ More about our host: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zena_assaad/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-zena-assaad/ 🔵BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/zenaassaad.bsky.social 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/ Follow us online: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responsiblebytespodcast/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responsible-bytes-podcast/ 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/responsible-bytes-podcast
S2 · E7
September 2 · 55 min
Why Human Control Isn't Enough in Military AI with Heidy Khlaaf
In this episode of Responsible Bytes, Dr. Zena Assaad speaks with Heidy Khlaaf, Chief AI Scientist at the AI Now Institute, about why military AI systems are far less reliable than their marketing suggests, especially in safety-critical and combat settings. They unpack the gap between “accuracy” as a narrow model metric and real-world performance, explaining how opaque, brittle systems, automation bias, outdated data, and poor interoperability can lead to serious mistakes while obscuring accountability. The conversation also explores the power dynamics behind the push for AI in warfare, including what Heidy characterises as a “safety theatre,” version-control concerns, and how companies and governments normalise speed over caution. Overall, the episode is a sharp critique of the idea that AI can safely replace human judgment in high-stakes environments, and a call for more skepticism, technical rigor, and accountability in how these systems are deployed. More about our guest: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hak90/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidy-khlaaf/ 🔵BlueSky: https://www.heidyk.com/ 🌐Website: https://www.heidyk.com/ More about our host: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zena_assaad/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-zena-assaad/ 🔵BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/zenaassaad.bsky.social 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/ Watch or listen to more episodes: 🍎 https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/responsible-bytes/id1800177424 🔊 https://open.spotify.com/show/2x2yNvU6OY1LBLX1TsuAfB Or find us anywhere else you get your podcasts! Follow us online: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responsiblebytespodcast/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responsible-bytes-podcast/ 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/responsible-bytes-podcast
S2 · E6
August 12 · 44 min
Unpacking AI Narratives: The Myth of Systems from Nowhere with Eryk Salvaggio
In this episode, Dr. Zena Assaad sits down with Eryk Salvaggio to discuss the narratives surrounding AI, focusing on Eryk's work around the concept of "systems from nowhere" and how industry and policy reports often obscure human responsibility. They also unpack the myths, political implications, and the importance of responsible engagement with AI technology. Links from this episode: 🔗Eryk's article in Tech Policy Press on the UN report: https://www.techpolicy.press/how-the-uns-scientific-panel-erases-human-responsibility-for-ai/ 🔗The UN report: https://www.un.org/independent-international-scientific-panel-ai/en/preliminary-report More about our guest: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cyberneticforests/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eryk-salvaggio/ 🔵BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/eryk.bsky.social 🌐Website: https://www.cyberneticforests.com/ More about our host: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zena_assaad/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-zena-assaad/ 🔵BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/zenaassaad.bsky.social 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/ Watch or listen to more episodes: 🍎 https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/responsible-bytes/id1800177424 🔊 https://open.spotify.com/show/2x2yNvU6OY1LBLX1TsuAfB Or find us anywhere else you get your podcasts! Follow us online: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responsiblebytespodcast/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responsible-bytes-podcast/ 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/responsible-bytes-podcast
S2 · E5
July 15 · 50 min
The Nuclear Renaissance: Opportunities and Risks in a Changing World with Art Cotterell
In this episode, our host Dr. Zena Assaad sits down with Dr. Art Cotterell, research fellow in nuclear law, to discuss the growing popularity of the concept of a nuclear renaissance. They unpack its implications for energy security, safety standards, space-based data centers, and also explore the intersection of AI and nuclear technology. They also discuss the importance of responsible innovation, community engagement, and regulatory frameworks in emerging technologies. Links from this episode: 🔗Whitey on the Moon by Gil Scott Heron: https://www.poemhunter.com/poem/whitey-on-the-moon/ 🔗Dr Cassandra Steer's substack, Space Citizens: https://spacecitizens.substack.com/about 🔗Relational futures: Indigenous sovereignty and the governance of AI by Professor Bronwyn Carlson and Dr Tamika Worrell: https://doi.org/10.25949/D8DH-H034 More about our guest: 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/art-cotterell/ 🌐Website: https://www.unsw.edu.au/staff/art-cotterell More about our host: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zena_assaad/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-zena-assaad/ 🔵BlueSky: https://web-cdn.bsky.app/profile/zenaassaad.bsky.social 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/ Watch or listen to more episodes: 🍎 https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/responsible-bytes/id1800177424 🔊 https://open.spotify.com/show/2x2yNvU6OY1LBLX1TsuAfB Or find us anywhere else you get your podcasts! Follow us online: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responsiblebytespodcast/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responsible-bytes-podcast/ 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/responsible-bytes-podcast
S2 · E4
June 3 · 44 min
Human Dignity and AI: Insights from the Pope's Encyclical with Lorenn Ruster
In this episode, our host Dr. Zena Assaad is joined by Dr. Lorenn Ruster to chat about Pope Leo XIV's recently released encyclical, Magnifica Humanitis. Focusing on AI and human dignity, we explore how religious perspectives influence AI ethics, the importance of dignity in technology, the implications for responsible AI development and the impacts of military AI on human dignity during times of war. Links from this episode: 🔗Pope Leo XIV's encyclical: https://www.vatican.va/content/leo-xiv/en/encyclicals/documents/20260515-magnifica-humanitas.html 🔗Jobin et al. paper: https://www.nature.com/articles/s42256-019-0088-2 🔗Donna Hick's book on dignity: https://yalebooks.yale.edu/book/9780300261424/dignity/ 🔗Anthropic co-founder's speech: https://www.anthropic.com/news/chris-olah-pope-leo-encyclical More about our guest: 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorennruster/ 🌐Website: https://lorennruster.com/research/ More about our host: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zena_assaad/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-zena-assaad/ 🔵BlueSky: https://web-cdn.bsky.app/profile/zenaassaad.bsky.social 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/ Watch or listen to more episodes: 🍎 https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/responsible-bytes/id1800177424 🔊 https://open.spotify.com/show/2x2yNvU6OY1LBLX1TsuAfB Or find us anywhere else you get your podcasts! Follow us online: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responsiblebytespodcast/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responsible-bytes-podcast/ 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/responsible-bytes-podcast
S2 · E3
April 15 · 40 min
Are Data Centers Legitimate Military Targets? Legal Insights with Klaudia Klonowska
In this episode, Dr. Zena Assaad interviews Dr. Klaudia Klonowska about the legality of targeting data centers in armed conflict, especially in the context of recent Middle East conflicts. They explore international law, dual-use technology, and the implications for civilian harm and military strategy. The contents of this episode are based on an article written for Just Security by our guest Klaudia Klonowska in collaboration with Michael Schmitt. You can read their article here: https://www.justsecurity.org/133685/iranian-attacks-amazon-data-centers-legal-analysis/ More about our guest: 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/klonowska/ 🌐Website: https://www.sciencespo.fr/ecole-droit/en/directory/klonowska-klaudia/ More about our host: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zena_assaad/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-zena-assaad/ 🔵BlueSky: https://web-cdn.bsky.app/profile/zenaassaad.bsky.social 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/ Watch or listen to more episodes: 🍎 https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/responsible-bytes/id1800177424 🔊 https://open.spotify.com/show/2x2yNvU6OY1LBLX1TsuAfB Or find us anywhere else you get your podcasts! Follow us online: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responsiblebytespodcast/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responsible-bytes-podcast/ 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/responsible-bytes-podcast
S2 · E2
March 25 · 40 min
Navigating Power Dynamics in AI Regulation with Simon Chesterman
In this episode of the Responsible Bytes podcast, Dr. Zena Assaad speaks with Simon Chesterman, a law professor at the National University of Singapore, about the shifting power dynamics in AI regulation. They discuss the challenges of regulating fast-moving technology, the perspectives of techno utopians, dystopians, and pragmatists, and the impact of organised users. The conversation also touches on the marketing agenda behind AI, lessons from China's regulatory approach, and the purpose of regulation in addressing market inefficiencies and social values. Links from this episode: 🔗Simon's article in Rest of World: https://restofworld.org/2026/ai-government-regulation-tech-giants/ 🔗Simon's book on AI regulation: https://www.amazon.com.au/We-Robots-Regulating-Artificial-Intelligence/dp/1009332074 🔗The Social Control of Technology by David Collingridge: https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/american-political-science-review/article/abs/social-control-of-technology-by-david-collingridge-new-york-st-martins-press-1980-pp-i-200-2250/648B7ECDDB00120BCAB13F17E4076C08 🔗AI Needs you by Verity Harding: https://press.princeton.edu/books/hardcover/9780691244877/ai-needs-you?srsltid=AfmBOoqO3y7-aL7y0jcmh5hPFM1VNNdYc-zMevRgJHf4QpD3WJMfZgcl More about our guest: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simon_chesterman/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonchesterman/ 🌐Website: https://simonchesterman.com/ More about our host: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zena_assaad/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-zena-assaad/ 🔵BlueSky: https://web-cdn.bsky.app/profile/zenaassaad.bsky.social 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/ Watch or listen to more episodes: 🍎 https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/responsible-bytes/id1800177424 🔊 https://open.spotify.com/show/2x2yNvU6OY1LBLX1TsuAfB Or find us anywhere else you get your podcasts! Follow us online: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responsiblebytespodcast/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responsible-bytes-podcast/ 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/responsible-bytes-podcast
S2 · E1
March 4 · 41 min
Trust by Design for Military AI with Branka Marijan
In this episode of the Responsible Bytes podcast, host Dr. Zena Assaad speaks with Branka Marijan, a senior researcher at Project Ploughshares, about the concept of 'trust by design' in military AI. They explore the importance of trust in technology, the interdependence of nations, and the role of middle powers in shaping regulations. The conversation also delves into the balance between technical and non-technical perspectives in technology discussions, the long-term impacts of AI in warfare, and the significance of confidence-building measures in fostering trust among nations. Branka emphasises the need for educated skepticism towards technology and the importance of understanding the broader context in which it is used. More about our guest: 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brankamarijan/ 🌐Website: https://ploughshares.ca/branka-marijan/ 🔗Branka's policy brief on trust by design for military AI: https://www.cigionline.org/publications/trust-by-design-ai-in-military-applications/ More about our host: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zena_assaad/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-zena-assaad/ 🔵BlueSky: https://web-cdn.bsky.app/profile/zenaassaad.bsky.social 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/ Watch or listen to more episodes: 🍎 https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/responsible-bytes/id1800177424 🔊 https://open.spotify.com/show/2x2yNvU6OY1LBLX1TsuAfB Or find us anywhere else you get your podcasts! Follow us online: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responsiblebytespodcast/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responsible-bytes-podcast/ 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/responsible-bytes-podcast
S1 · E14
Dec 3, 2025 · 42 min
AI Security and Ethics with Yasmin Afina
In this episode of the Responsible Bytes podcast, our host Dr Zena Assaad sits down with Dr Yasmin Afina to discuss the Roundtable for AI Security and Ethics (RAISE). The conversation explores the tension between ethics and national security, particularly in the context of implementing responsible AI. It also highlights the challenges faced by small and medium enterprises in operationalising ethical AI. More about our guest: 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yasminafina/ 🌐To learn more about RAISE: https://unidir.org/raise/ 🌐RAISE policy brief: https://unidir.org/publication/governance-of-artificial-intelligence-in-the-military-domain-a-multi-stakeholder-perspective-on-priority-areas/ More about our host: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zena_assaad/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-zena-assaad/ 🔵BlueSky: https://web-cdn.bsky.app/profile/zenaassaad.bsky.social 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/ Watch or listen to more episodes: 🍎 https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/responsible-bytes/id1800177424 🔊 https://open.spotify.com/show/2x2yNvU6OY1LBLX1TsuAfB Or find us anywhere else you get your podcasts! Follow us online: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responsiblebytespodcast/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responsible-bytes-podcast/ 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/responsible-bytes-podcast
S1 · E13
Nov 19, 2025 · 50 min
Beyond the Hype: Science Communication in an AI-Driven World with Alison Kershaw
In this episode, our host Dr Zena Assaad is joined by Alison Kershaw, an award winning science communicator. The conversation explores the challenges of science communication in an age of generative AI. Together they unpack the layered marketing behind artificial intelligence and why its promises resonate so widely. From claims about productivity and economic growth to the sweeping narratives that shape public perception, they explore how AI is being sold to us and why that matters. They also delve into the limitations of generative AI, such as ChatGPT, in science communication and explain why critical thinking is so important. More about our guest: 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alisonkershaw/ More about our host: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zena_assaad/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-zena-assaad/ 🔵BlueSky: https://web-cdn.bsky.app/profile/zenaassaad.bsky.social 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/ Watch or listen to more episodes: 🍎 https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/responsible-bytes/id1800177424 🔊 https://open.spotify.com/show/2x2yNvU6OY1LBLX1TsuAfB Or find us anywhere else you get your podcasts! Follow us online: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responsiblebytespodcast/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responsible-bytes-podcast/ 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/responsible-bytes-podcast
S1 · E12
Oct 29, 2025 · 43 min
Responsible by design: An overview of the GC REAIM strategic guidance report with Sofia Romansky
In this episode of the Responsible Bytes podcast, Dr. Zena Assaad interviews Sofia Romansky, an analyst at the Hague Center for Strategic Studies (HCSS) and project coordinator for the Global Commission on Responsible AI in the Military Domain (GC REAIM). They discuss the complexities of integrating AI into military practices, the challenges of achieving consensus among diverse stakeholders, and the importance of human-centered design in AI development. The conversation also covers the GC REAIM strategic guidance report, which outlines recommendations for responsible AI use in military contexts, and emphasises the need for multidisciplinary collaboration and reflection in technology engagement. Resources mentioned in this episode: Link to the GC REAIM strategic guidance report: https://hcss.nl/report/gc-reaim-responsible-by-design-strategic-guidance-report/ Link to the IEEE SA white paper: https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/10707139 More about our guest: 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sofia-romansky/ 🌐Website: https://hcss.nl/expert/sofia-romansky/ More about our host: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zena_assaad/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-zena-assaad/ 🔵BlueSky: https://web-cdn.bsky.app/profile/zenaassaad.bsky.social 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/ Watch or listen to more episodes: 🍎 https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/responsible-bytes/id1800177424 🔊 https://open.spotify.com/show/2x2yNvU6OY1LBLX1TsuAfB Or find us anywhere else you get your podcasts! Follow us online: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responsiblebytespodcast/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responsible-bytes-podcast/ 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/responsible-bytes-podcast
S1 · E11
Oct 15, 2025 · 47 min
The Evolution of Human Control in Warfare with Lena Trabucco
In this episode of the Responsible Bites podcast, Dr. Zena Assaad speaks with Dr. Lena Trabucco about the implications of AI and autonomous systems in military contexts. They explore the concept of human control in warfare, the differences between AI-enabled and traditional weapons systems, and the evolving role of operators. The conversation also touches on the challenges of academic writing, the impact of parenthood on career ambitions, and the importance of interdisciplinary dialogue. Link to Lena's three part article series on human control: https://digital-commons.usnwc.edu/ils/ More about our guest: 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lena-trabucco-8075a340/ More about our host: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zena_assaad/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-zena-assaad/ 🔵BlueSky: https://web-cdn.bsky.app/profile/zenaassaad.bsky.social 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/ Watch or listen to more episodes: 🍎 https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/responsible-bytes/id1800177424 🔊 https://open.spotify.com/show/2x2yNvU6OY1LBLX1TsuAfB Or find us anywhere else you get your podcasts! Follow us online: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responsiblebytespodcast/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responsible-bytes-podcast/ 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/responsible-bytes-podcast
S1 · E10
Sep 17, 2025 · 51 min
Navigating the future of military AI with Jessica Dorsey
In this episode of the Responsible Bytes podcast, Dr. Zena Assaad speaks with Jessica Dorsey, an Assistant Professor of International Law, about the recent CCW GGE on LAWS meeting held in Geneva. They discuss the complexities of defining lethal autonomous weapon systems, the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, and the challenges posed by industry narratives and technical expertise in regulatory discussions. The conversation emphasises the need for responsible engagement with technology, particularly in military contexts, and the importance of asking questions across disciplines to foster better understanding and collaboration. More about our guest: 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicadorsey/ 🌐Website: https://www.uu.nl/staff/JLDorsey More about our host: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zena_assaad/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-zena-assaad/ 🔵BlueSky: https://web-cdn.bsky.app/profile/zenaassaad.bsky.social 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/ Watch or listen to more episodes: 🍎 https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/responsible-bytes/id1800177424 🔊 https://open.spotify.com/show/2x2yNvU6OY1LBLX1TsuAfB Or find us anywhere else you get your podcasts! Follow us online: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responsiblebytespodcast/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responsible-bytes-podcast/ 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/responsible-bytes-podcast
S1 · E9
Sep 3, 2025 · 43 min
Dignity in Technology with Lorenn Ruster
In this episode of the Responsible Bytes podcast, Dr. Zena Assaad chats with Lorenn Ruster, a responsible AI researcher, to explore the concept of dignity in technology. They discuss the importance of placing dignity at the center of AI systems, the intersection of dignity and human rights, and how entrepreneurship can honor dignity. Lorenn shares insights on the cultural perspectives of dignity, the challenges of defining it, and the need to move beyond checkbox culture in organisations. The conversation emphasises the importance of reflective practice in fostering responsibility in technology development and usage. More about our guest: 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorennruster/ 🌐Website: https://lorennruster.com/ More about our host: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zena_assaad/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-zena-assaad/ 🔵BlueSky: https://web-cdn.bsky.app/profile/zenaassaad.bsky.social 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/ Watch or listen to more episodes: 🍎 https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/responsible-bytes/id1800177424 🔊 https://open.spotify.com/show/2x2yNvU6OY1LBLX1TsuAfB Or find us anywhere else you get your podcasts! Follow us online: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responsiblebytespodcast/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responsible-bytes-podcast/ 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/responsible-bytes-podcast
S1 · E8
Jul 30, 2025 · 43 min
Navigating the Tech Landscape with Tracey Spicer
In this episode of the Responsible Bytes podcast, Dr. Zena Assaad and Tracey Spicer AM discuss the intersection of technology and society, focusing on the implications of tech oligarchs' influence on politics, the need for regulation in AI, and the challenges of gender bias in technology. They explore the responsibilities of social media platforms, the importance of critical thinking, and the necessity of guardrails for emerging technologies. The conversation also touches on the value of data, the generational divide in technology engagement, and the ongoing struggle for equity and fairness in the tech industry. More about our guest: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/traceyspicer/?hl=en 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/traceyspicer/ 🔵BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/traceyspicer.bsky.social 🌐Website: https://traceyspicer.com.au/ More about our host: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zena_assaad/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-zena-assaad/ 🔵BlueSky: https://web-cdn.bsky.app/profile/zenaassaad.bsky.social 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/ Watch or listen to more episodes: 🍎 https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/responsible-bytes/id1800177424 🔊 https://open.spotify.com/show/2x2yNvU6OY1LBLX1TsuAfB Or find us anywhere else you get your podcasts! Follow us online: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responsiblebytespodcast/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responsible-bytes-podcast/ 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/responsible-bytes-podcast
S1 · E7
Jul 9, 2025 · 44 min
The Paradox of Responsible Nuclear Behavior with Luba Zatsepina
In this episode of the Responsible Bytes podcast, Dr. Zena Assaad speaks with Dr. Luba Zatsepina about nuclear deterrence, responsible nuclear behavior, and the implications of artificial intelligence in the context of nuclear security. They explore the psychological aspects of deterrence, cultural differences in understanding nuclear policy, and the challenges posed by AI in decision-making processes. The conversation also touches on the current geopolitical climate, the evolution of nuclear deterrence, and the importance of transparency and critical engagement with technology. More about our guest: 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luba-zatsepina-phd-4773b795/ More about our host: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zena_assaad/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-zena-assaad/ 🔵BlueSky: https://web-cdn.bsky.app/profile/zenaassaad.bsky.social 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/ Watch or listen to more episodes: 🍎 https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/responsible-bytes/id1800177424 🔊 https://open.spotify.com/show/2x2yNvU6OY1LBLX1TsuAfB Or find us anywhere else you get your podcasts! Follow us online: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responsiblebytespodcast/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responsible-bytes-podcast/ 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/responsible-bytes-podcast
S1 · E6
Jun 4, 2025 · 44 min
Lawful by Design: Embedding Responsibility in Military Technology with Damian Copeland
In this episode of the Responsible Bytes podcast, Dr. Zena Assaad interviews Dr. Damian Copeland, director at Article 36 Legal, discussing the intersection of military technology, legal compliance, and the implications of AI and autonomy in warfare. They explore the legal review process for weapons systems, the challenges posed by AI, and the importance of embedding legal considerations into the design of military technologies. The conversation also touches on accountability, the role of human factors, and the upcoming launch of the Lawful by Design initiative aimed at ensuring compliance with international humanitarian law from the outset of technology development. Relevant links from this episode: 🔗🔗Link to the Lawful by Design online event scheduled for 12th June: https://events.humanitix.com/launch-event-lawful-by-design 🔗🔗Australia's guide to legal reviews: https://files.apils.org/au/240410_adf_guide_to_art_36_legal_review.pdf More about our guest: 🌐Website: http://www.article36legal.com/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-damian-copeland-490252111/ More about our host: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zena_assaad/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-zena-assaad/ 🔵BlueSky: https://web-cdn.bsky.app/profile/zenaassaad.bsky.social 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/ Watch or listen to more episodes: 🍎 https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/responsible-bytes/id1800177424 🔊 https://open.spotify.com/show/2x2yNvU6OY1LBLX1TsuAfB Or find us anywhere else you get your podcasts! Follow us online: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responsiblebytespodcast/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responsible-bytes-podcast/ 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/responsible-bytes-podcast
S1 · E5
May 7, 2025 · 47 min
Beyond the Mirror: AI, Social Media, and the Future of Expression with Nikki Chowdhury
In this episode of the Responsible Bytes podcast, Dr. Zena Assaad speaks with Nikki Chowdhury about the intersection of fashion and technology, particularly focusing on the role of AI in creativity and the implications of homogenisation in design. They discuss the impact of algorithms on individuality, the changing landscape of modeling due to AI, and the influence of social media on personal identity. The conversation emphasises the need for education around technology and the importance of navigating the 'walled garden' of social media, ultimately advocating for decentralised platforms as a more egalitarian alternative. More about our guest: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikkidury/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkichowdhury/ More about our host: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zena_assaad/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-zena-assaad/ 🔵BlueSky: https://web-cdn.bsky.app/profile/zenaassaad.bsky.social 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/ Watch or listen to more episodes: 🍎 https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/responsible-bytes/id1800177424 🔊 https://open.spotify.com/show/2x2yNvU6OY1LBLX1TsuAfB Or find us anywhere else you get your podcasts! Follow us online: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responsiblebytespodcast/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responsible-bytes-podcast/ 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/responsible-bytes-podcast
S1 · E4
Apr 23, 2025 · 48 min
Navigating national security in the tech era with Miah Hammond-Errey
In this episode of the Responsible Bytes podcast, Dr. Zena Assaad speaks with Dr. Mia Hammond-Errey about the intricate relationship between technology and national security. They explore how technology impacts national security, the shifting political support of tech companies, the role of AI in shaping narratives, and the challenges of information overload. The conversation also delves into the geopolitical tensions surrounding technology, the balance between regulation and innovation, and the importance of human connection in diplomacy. More about our guest: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiahhammonderrey/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/miahhe/ 🔵BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/did:plc:npazqdgkprlcmvfetsbprlzp 🌐Website: https://miahhe.com/about More about our host: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zena_assaad/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-zena-assaad/ 🔵BlueSky: https://web-cdn.bsky.app/profile/zenaassaad.bsky.social 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/ Watch or listen to more episodes: 🍎 https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/responsible-bytes/id1800177424 🔊 https://open.spotify.com/show/2x2yNvU6OY1LBLX1TsuAfB Or find us anywhere else you get your podcasts! Follow us online: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responsiblebytespodcast/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responsible-bytes-podcast/ 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/responsible-bytes-podcast
S1 · E3
Apr 2, 2025 · 45 min
Is technological progress always good? with Ariel Conn
In this episode of the Responsible Bytes podcast, Dr. Zena Assaad engages with technology and global risks expert Ariel Conn to explore the complex relationship between technological progress and human well-being. They challenge the narrative that technological advancement is inherently positive, contrasting it with the hunter-gatherer lifestyle as a potential lens for understanding stress and mental health in modern society. The conversation covers the balance between innovation and caution, with both experts reflecting on how modern technology impacts our lives. They also delve into broader topics such as beliefs about extraterrestrial life, the historical shift from matrifocal to patriarchal societies, and how societal values shape our perceptions of various professions. The discussion touches on the complexities of human decision-making, the influence of consumerism, and the need to understand our past in order to build a better future. The blog post Ariel wrote, that was the focus of this episode: https://whatintheworldistheproblem.substack.com/p/prehistoric-life-versus-technology?source=queue The book Ariel mentions during this episode: Determined: A science of life without free will https://bookshop.org/p/books/determined-a-science-of-life-without-free-will-robert-m-sapolsky/19662545?ean=9780525560999&next=t More about our guest: 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aconn23/ 🌐Website: https://www.thehealingpathways.org/ More about our host: 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zena_assaad/ 📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-zena-assaad/ 🔵BlueSky: https://web-cdn.bsky.app/profile/zenaassaad.bsky.social 🌐Website: https://www.zenaassaad.com/

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