This week, writer Byrne Hobart and investor Erik Torenberg discuss new updatates from OpenAI, Byrne's macroeconomic predictions, the importance of software for Microsoft, and more. Moment of Zen is sponsored by Shopify: https://shopify.com/momentofzen for a $1/month trial period.

---

The Riff is a part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: turpentine.co

---

Check out Erik's new show Request for Startups featuring a rotating cast of founders and investors sharing their requests for startups they want to exist in the world, and also their stories of navigating the idea maze in different sectors so founders don’t have to reinvent the wheel anymore. The first episode is out now - we cover better dating apps, references as a service, and WeWork for productivity

---

We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com.

---

Thanks to our sponsor: SHOPIFY

Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all e-commerce in the US. And Shopify’s the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy’s, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one e-commerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you’re selling, Shopify’s got you covered. With free Shopify Magic, sell more with less effort by whipping up captivating content that converts – from blog posts to product descriptions using AI. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/momentofzen.

---

LINKS:

Byrne's writing: https://thediff.co

---

RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Live Players With Samo Burja

Join host Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg as they analyze the mindsets of today’s most intriguing business leaders, investors, and innovators through the lens of their bold actions and contrarian worldviews. Think: Elon, Sam Altman, Peter Thiel, George Soros and more. You’ll come away with a deeper understanding of the development of technology, business, political power, culture and more. Listen and subscribe everywhere you get your podcasts: https://link.chtbl.com/liveplayers

---

X / TWITTER:

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@byrnehobart (Byrne)

---

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Intro

(00:20) New updates on OpenAI

(02:50) The continuum between overcoming natural inertia and a Ponzi scheme

(04:03) Whoever actually has negotiating leverage is in charge

(06:28) The uncertainty theory of conflict

(13:04) Lags in AI product release

(17:37) Sponsor - Shopify

(19:12) Crypto markets

(26:48) Byrne's macro predictions

(31:00) Deep dive on McDonald's loyalty program

(38:59) Byrne's perspective on the effect of minimum wage

(49:42) Donor activism at colleges

(58:29) Wrap

---

The Riff is a production from Turpentine

Producer: Sam Kaufman

Editor: Seven Morris

For guest or sponsorship inquiries please contact [email protected]