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TechTank

TechTank

Brookings Institution 137 episodes Latest May 4, 2026

TechTank is a biweekly podcast from The Brookings Institution that explores the most consequential technology issues of our time, including artificial intelligence, racial bias in algorithms, Big Tech, the future of work, and the digital divide. Moderators Dr. Nicol Turner Lee and Darrell West speak with leading technology experts and policymakers to share new data, ideas, and policy solutions. The podcast aims to make abstract ideas accessible to a broad audience.

Episodes

Maintaining privacy and security with connected cars May 4, 2026 21:50 Cars and trucks are being digitally connected through online sensors, safety devices, and entertainment systems, leading some observers to call vehicles today "smart phones on wheels." These features offer tremendous convenience for drivers and passengers, though the ubiquitous connections raise questions about privacy, security, legal liability, and consumer protection. In this episode, Darrell W
How should we approach chatbots' mental health and privacy concerns? Apr 20, 2026 44:28 Large language models are now marketed for more than just efficiency—some companies are encouraging them for more personal use cases, such as health questions or companionship. These uses carry some privacy and mental health concerns, which lawmakers are currently trying to address. In this episode, guest host Josie Stewart is joined by Shae Gardner and Sydney Saubestre to discuss these approaches
Teens are using AI—but not how we think Apr 6, 2026 29:25 A recent survey examined how U.S. teens use and view AI, finding the majority have used chatbots for schoolwork or searching for information. Teens reported varying opinions about how AI would impact them personally versus society, and these feelings and use cases varied across certain demographics. In this episode, Co-host Nicol Turner Lee is join
Does the Anthropic–Pentagon feud mean the end of responsible AI? Mar 23, 2026 28:22 In February, Anthropic faced an ultimatum from the Pentagon to provide unrestricted use of its AI models. When the company refused, the defense secretary labeled it as a "supply-chain risk" and soon after entered into a contract with OpenAI. In this episode, guest host Josie Stewart is joined by Stephanie Pell and Valerie Wirtschafter to discuss this feud, how it may affect perceptions o
Going back to the moon Mar 9, 2026 35:55 The U.S. will soon launch a crewed ship to circle the moon and test equipment for takeoff and reentry, raising interesting questions about space exploration and the role of private companies. In this episode, co-host Darrell West is joined by Casey Dreier of the Planetary Society to discuss this mission and the China-U.S. rivalry over space. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more informat
What to expect from the India AI Impact Summit Feb 16, 2026 34:16 India will host the latest in a series of global AI summits this month, marking the first of these convenings to take place in the Global South. The event will feature keynotes, panels, and an expo of deployable AI applications—all with a focus on impact. In this episode, guest host Brooke Tanner is joined by Brookings scholars Elham Tabassi and Cameron Kerry to discuss their expectations for
Tech outlooks for 2026 Feb 2, 2026 35:32 From advances in generative AI to crackdowns on kids' use of social media, various discussions around technology are likely to continue or expand in 2026. This includes questions about how states and the federal government might regulate these technologies and what areas will be at the forefront of legislation. In this episode, co-hosts Darrell West and Nicol Turner Lee share their thoughts on wha
Universities tackled digital inclusion—now they are accelerating AI use Jan 19, 2026 46:50 Some surveys show the majority of college students are using AI for academics, and several institutions are also embracing the technology, looking for the best ways to make the technology accessible and understandable for all. In this episode, co-host Nicol Turner Lee is joined by Lev Gonick to discuss these efforts and how they connect to prior work around digital inclusion. 
Why water is important for data centers Jan 5, 2026 25:19 Data centers are crucial for AI, but with thousands of file servers, they also require large amounts of energy and water. As more facilities are built, it’s important to understand this usage and how it might affect surrounding communities. In this episode, co-host Darrell West is joined by Joseph Kane to discuss how data centers use water and the policy questions surrounding these resources.&nbsp
'Navigating Technology and National Security’ with author Justin Sherman Dec 22, 2025 40:22 Many of today’s conversations about AI and emerging technologies are increasingly driven by questions about national security. These conversations are the latest in a longstanding debate over how the government uses a complex set of regulatory tools to protect critical technologies. In this episode, co-host Nicol Turner Lee is joined by Justin Sherman to discuss
'Wired Wisdom': A conversation with author Eszter Hargittai on older populations Dec 8, 2025 37:16 As the internet emerged, so did stereotypes about older people's use of it. Yet research has countered some of these common beliefs and led to greater understanding of these generations' online activity. In this episode, Nicol Turner Lee speaks with Eszter Hargittai, the co-author of "Wired Wisdom: How to Age Better Online," about these findings and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for
The Age of Extraction: A discussion on Tim Wu's new book Nov 24, 2025 36:46 Marketplaces look different in the digital age and are controlled by a few large companies with immense economic and cultural power. Co-host Nicol Turner Lee is joined by legal scholar and tech expert, Tim Wu, to discuss his new book, “The Age of Extraction” and the future of these platforms.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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