Impact Quantum: A Podcast for the Quantum Curious

Welcome to another episode of Impact Quantum, where we explore the cutting edge of quantum computing and emerging technologies reshaping our world.

Today, co-hosts Frank La Vigne and Candace Gillhoolley sit down with Vivek Raghunathan, co-founder of Xscape Photonics, to delve into the revolutionary intersection of photonics, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing. From comparing the astounding power efficiency of the human brain to today's AI clusters, to discussing how multicolor lasers could unlock massive advancements in data center performance and sustainability, Vivek shares how his company is tackling the growing power demands of AI by reimagining the future of hardware.

We’ll hear why the traditional focus on faster processors is giving way to a new era where the speed and efficiency of inter-chip communication—powered by light, not electricity—becomes the key to smarter, greener computing.

Tune in as we decode the transformation of data center architecture, explore the practical and philosophical implications of merging photonics and electronics, and peek into how today’s innovations lay the foundation for tomorrow’s quantum breakthroughs.

Whether you’re a seasoned technologist or just quantum-curious, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss!

• Vivek on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/vivek-raghunathan-8228913a/
• XScape Photonics - https://www.xscapephotonics.com/
• Watch on YouTube - https://youtu.be/NcXWZyPuyqE

00:00 Discussing Montreal weather transition

05:04 AI efficiency and power use

10:14 Advancing data transfer on copper wires

11:31 Copper vs. fiber optics limits

17:13 Optical cables replacing copper wires

20:36 Quantum computing and comb lasers

24:32 Integrating electronics and photonics

27:40 AI efficiency and energy consumption

31:54 Photonics on 12-inch wafers

33:39 Analog computation basics

37:50 Transition to photonic computing

42:24 Data center strategy discussions

45:32 NVIDIA's holistic system design approach

47:05 High-bandwidth cluster discussion

51:31 Reducing data center power consumption

53:42 Candace and Frank on podcasts

In this episode, co-host Candace Cahootie sits down with Christopher Turk, a leading expert in post-quantum cryptography at KPMG, to unpack the pressing issues facing organizations as quantum technology inches ever closer to breaking conventional encryption.

Together, they dive into why Washington, D.C. has become a unique hotbed for quantum security, how government mandates are shaping adoption, and why the real challenge in post-quantum cryptography may lie more in asset identification than in technology itself. You'll hear firsthand accounts of red teaming quantum systems, debates on collaboration across the industry, and practical advice for both regulated and non-regulated sectors. Whether you're a quantum expert or "quantum curious," this episode will give you fresh insights on preparing for a crypto-future—where today's paranoia is tomorrow's best practice.

• Christopher on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-t-9a259783/
• Watch on YouTube - https://youtu.be/AP0vKL-2J20

00:00 Post-quantum cryptography origins

05:34 Cybersecurity threats to financial systems

09:18 International collaboration challenges

11:15 Changing perspectives on Nvidia

14:09 Need for better collaboration in quantum

19:57 Enhancing restaurant user experience

23:46 Technical vs. compliance focus in PQC

26:10 Understanding RSA configuration and security

29:56 Challenges in managing cryptographic identities

30:53 Discussing Salesforce sandbox integration

34:28 Bypassing quantum security measures

40:07 Credential Expiration and Security Risks

42:27 Discussing security measures for Dingo

44:37 Networking and upcoming conferences

In this episode, we're joined by Rachel Noek, Senior Research Scientist and Technical Program Manager at the Duke Quantum Center. Rachel shares her journey from industry to academia, her experiences developing photonic kits for inspiring the next generation, and her insights on the rapidly evolving landscape of quantum computing.

We dive into the unique challenges of project management in deep tech environments, the essential collaboration between academia and industry, and what the future holds for quantum technologies. Rachel also discusses how hands-on learning can demystify complex concepts, why the quantum field needs talent beyond physicists, and her vision for a quantum-enabled future.

Whether you're quantum-curious or an industry veteran, this conversation is packed with inspiration and practical wisdom about the quantum revolution

• Watch on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VKpbvjPnmT0
• Rachel Noek on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-noek-qc/

00:00 Facing unknown challenges

06:53 Funding and goals of Duke Quantum Center

10:44 Explaining light absorption and emission

13:51 Role of academia and industry in quantum computers

15:54 Transition from Software to Data Science

20:56 Role as a technical project manager

23:25 Facing unknown challenges

26:59 Entering the Quantum Industry

30:12 Integrating quantum computing in biology

33:19 Reflecting on early tech experiences

36:16 Decluttering before the big move

40:44 Growth of Quantum Computing Field

45:07 Challenges in shifting to EVs

48:20 Upcoming Trapped Ions Conference

In today’s episode, we sit down with Severyn Balaniuk, a research software developer at 1QBit, whose journey from reading "Programming the Universe" in high school to contributing to quantum advancements provides a unique insider’s perspective. We’ll explore the real relationship between AI and quantum, why networking and communication matter just as much as coding, and which quantum breakthroughs may be on the horizon.

From debates on the future of programming languages like Julia, to insights into government-backed quantum corridors, open source’s pivotal role, and the biggest misconceptions about quantum computing, this episode offers a candid reality check in a field defined by both promise and hype. Whether you’re a curious student or a seasoned developer, tune in to discover what it really means to build the future—one quantum leap at a time.

• Severyn on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/severynbalaniuk/
• Watch on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qf4rw0fFn4o

00:00 Explaining Quantum AI vs AI for Quantum

06:00 Importance of Networking in Quantum

10:00 Current AI industry outlook

10:59 Government goals for quantum computing

14:37 Debating AI's role in quantum

18:22 Investing in Quantum Computing

23:34 Programming language demand in quantum computing

26:36 Misconceptions about quantum computing

28:04 Quantum computing platforms to watch

32:28 Importance of open source in quantum

37:41 Open source in quantum computing

39:45 Key skills for researchers

43:28 Quantum computing's potential impact

46:05 Learning practical skills and feedback

50:16 Candace and Frank's quantum podcast

This week, Candace and Frank are back, diving into a summer that's hot in more ways than one—with quantum breakthroughs, climate conversations, and tech trends heating up worldwide. The duo unpacks the latest global developments in quantum computing, including the U.S. government's renewed commitment, developments in Canada, Europe, and Israel, and Microsoft's milestone in qubit lifetime. They examine the growing intersection of quantum with AI, data centers, and national security, plus the evolving landscape of data infrastructure and the societal impacts of new technology.

From venture capital shifts and startup culture to quantum’s role in drug discovery and cyber defense, this episode connects the dots between today's tech headlines and the world of tomorrow. Whether you’re quantum curious or a seasoned pro, get ready for insightful discussion, international updates, and a look at how quantum is shaping our future.

00:00 Portable air conditioning basics

03:59 New job at ClearML announcement

08:51 AI's Role in Upcoming Elections

09:53 High power line concerns

13:24 Data centers in Loudoun County

18:36 Microsoft's quantum computing breakthrough

20:19 Viral movie clip memes

24:36 Venture Capital's Role in Tech

26:35 Explaining data potential with chess analogy

30:38 Tech impact on global stability

35:49 Quantum podcast and cosmic connections

In this episode, the conversation focused on the transformative potential of quantum networks alongside the ever-prominent quantum computers. A key theme that emerged was how curiosity—rather than just advanced degrees—can open doors in the quantum industry. The discussion explored the path from complex mathematical curiosity to a career in quantum information science, highlighting how quantum communication is emerging as a crucial counterpart to quantum computing.

Listeners will learn about the threats and opportunities presented by quantum technologies, including the significance of quantum key distribution (QKD) and the coming era of "Q Day," where classic cryptographic systems may become obsolete. The episode provides insights on the unique challenges of quantum networking infrastructure, the role of satellites, and why quantum communication remains an underappreciated area with immense potential. Several points were raised, including the tension between post-quantum cryptography and QKD, the fragmented approach to quantum infrastructure across nations, and the key industries that will drive adoption. If you’re quantum-curious—whether you're a technologist, executive, or just fascinated by the future of secure communications—this episode breaks down the stakes, the science, and the paths forward in quantum networking.

• Carlos on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlos-pascual-garc%C3%ADa-ph-d-8469b216b/
• Watch on YouTube - https://youtu.be/ohDtnOwYpHg

00:00 Choosing a PhD in Quantum Communications

06:44 Satellite communication and defense strategies

10:03 Introduction to quantum cryptography

11:27 Post quantum cryptography explained

14:26 Challenges in communication authentication

17:51 Quantum communication projects in the EU

23:35 Efficient energy solutions for data centers

27:18 Challenges of scaling quantum networks

29:39 Challenges in Quantum Device Commercialization

34:02 Challenges in setting tech standards

35:57 Fragmentation in global security tech

40:23 Challenges of microscale computations

42:58 Julia's role in data science

45:49 Quantum podcast with Candace and Frank

In this episode, Kevin Kane, CEO of American Binary, a pioneer in the field of enterprise post-quantum network security joins us to talk about the looming threat of Q-Day.

Together, we tackle urgent questions surrounding the looming quantum threat, the vulnerabilities in our global financial systems, and how quantum computing could reshape cybersecurity as we know it.

Kevin dives deep into why his company was founded to protect critical infrastructure from future quantum attacks and explains their journey in developing NSA-standard post-quantum encryption. From the psychology of innovation to the global stakes of unpreparedness, Kevin shares thought-provoking insights on courage, resilience, and the human side of tech entrepreneurship.

Get ready for a conversation that spans from cutting-edge cryptography to geopolitics, the nature of leadership, and the importance of family—while reminding us all why the race for secure networks is about more than technology; it’s about civilization’s survival.

• Kevin's LinkedIn Profile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamkevinpkane/
• Watch on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GYLaWYyh37w

00:00 American Binary's founding and cryptography focus

04:27 Post quantum encryption explained

09:16 Tim Ferriss immersion strategy

12:46 Talking about financial success

13:36 Hypothetical security breach scenario

16:57 Market chaos and trading shifts

21:27 Ensuring safe tech development

27:21 Driven by long-term passion

31:03 Military experience and personal resolve

32:48 Enterprise VPN with quantum encryption

36:34 Impact of Parenthood on Perspective

38:21 Understanding motives of leadership

In this episode, host Frank La Vigne and his co-host Candace Gillhoolley sit down with Hillary Ogbodo, CTO of Almond Inc. and a passionate quantum researcher based in Nigeria. The conversation journeys from the challenges of fintech and credit systems in Africa, through Hillary’s personal fascination with quantum teleportation, to the future of quantum encryption and security.

They dive deep into quantum key distribution (QKD), real-world deployment hurdles, the fast-moving international race in quantum technology, and why the next five years could see QKD go from academic pilot to critical infrastructure. Whether you’re a quantum novice or an aficionado, this episode unpacks the global implications of quantum security and what it means for industries from finance to defense—plus, some unexpected stories about cryptography, satellites, and the power of curiosity.

• Hilary on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/hillary-ogbodo-6352391b0/
• Watch on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=frJ9wtou-hs

00:00 Fixing credit in Nigeria

05:47 Explaining quantum data encryption

09:01 Detecting eavesdroppers with error rates

11:54 Discussing global quantum computing advancements

15:34 Quantum computing secrecy

16:41 Discussing QKD vs PQC algorithms

21:56 Getting into cryptography after 2002

24:31 Getting into quantum computing

27:26 Quantum teleportation research in China

30:35 Rural broadband accessibility issues

34:43 Wells Fargo tests quantum security

39:32 Quantum key distribution advancements

40:29 Discussing quantum resilient algorithms

44:04 Discussing encryption with engineers

Today, we're diving deep into the world of quantum computing and its far-reaching implications for cybersecurity, risk, and digital resilience. Join Frank La Vigne and Candace Gillhoolley as they sit down with Chris Basener, a leading GRC advisor specializing in post-quantum cryptography. Together, they unravel the challenges organizations face in preparing for the inevitable arrival of quantum computers powerful enough to threaten today's encryption, discuss the realities and misconceptions surrounding post-quantum cryptography, and explore practical strategies for building long-term digital resilience.

We'll explore the urgent need for cryptographic agility, the complexities of migrating to new standards, and why every organization—from banks to manufacturers—must start planning now, despite the uncertainty around when quantum threats will fully materialize. Plus, Chris Basener shares insights on talent shortages, project management for quantum readiness, and how companies can move from awareness to action. If you're curious about the intersection of quantum technology, cybersecurity, and strategic risk management, you won't want to miss this conversation!

• Chris' LinkedIn profile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-basener/

00:00 Quantum computing and cryptography risks

04:04 Understanding Mosca's Theorem Basics

08:02 Quantum computing in finance

12:10 Concerns about quantum cryptography adoption

15:58 Importance of Strategic Planning

19:30 Challenges of Early Adoption

23:01 Building cyber resilience with agility

26:55 Challenges in Manufacturing Security

28:31 Importance of national security

31:49 Future risks of data security

35:30 Discussing hybrid algorithm security

41:15 Discussing cybersecurity frameworks

43:11 Securing funding through governance

48:47 Creating a post-quantum cryptography course

50:04 Post quantum cryptography course

53:42 Connecting on LinkedIn for courses

In this episode, we're joined by Andre Koenig, a strategic consultant whose work helps governments, investors, and companies worldwide navigate the rapidly evolving quantum landscape. Together, we peel back the layers of hype and misconception around quantum technologies, exploring what it really takes to drive innovation, the intersection of quantum and AI, and why the true transformative power of quantum may still be decades away. Whether you're a scientist, entrepreneur, or simply quantum curious, this conversation offers invaluable insights into the present and future of one of technology's final frontiers.

• André on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/estrapadus/
• Watch on YouTube - https://youtu.be/Uozkyn4JKYk

00:00 Scaling responsibly within the industry

04:55 Challenges in Implementing Weather Tech

07:45 Understanding Amara's Law in Tech

12:22 AI for quantum computing

14:03 Early adoption of quantum technology

20:34 Cloud services and enterprise technology

21:53 Discussing misconceptions in quantum tech

27:08 Discussing evolution in technology

28:38 Career opportunities in Quantum technology

31:22 Challenges in global collaboration

35:50 Impact of prompt engineering