In this fascinating and future-forward conversation, author and former tech executive Gary F. Bengier joins Leigh to explore the intersection of artificial intelligence, robotics, philosophy, and human purpose. Drawing on his experience at eBay and his later studies in astrophysics and philosophy, Gary shares the thinking behind his visionary novels Unfettered Journey and Journey to 2125.

We dive into:

• The hard problem of consciousness and why AI may never truly be "conscious"

• How AI and robotics will reshape the job market—and what happens when work disappears

• Speculations on embedded tech, augmented reality, and what life might look like in the 22nd century

• How future societies might structure economy, meaning, and identity in a post-job world

• The tension between optimism and realism in addressing climate change, democracy, and war

With decades of experience in Silicon Valley and deep philosophical inquiry, Gary brings a unique lens to the challenges ahead. His fiction isn't just speculative—it's grounded in science and meant to spark important conversations. Connect with Gary: Website: garyfbengier.com Books: Unfettered Journey and Journey to 2125 available online Audiobooks also available with full-cast narration Follow Gary: Instagram: @gary Facebook: @garybengierauthor