The Cognitive Revolution: AI Builders, Researchers, and Live Player Analysis

Nathan Labenz and Erik Torenberg run one of the more ambitious AI interview shows out there. The Cognitive Revolution, part of the Turpentine podcast network, takes on a wide mandate: understanding how AI is reshaping not just technology but biology, law, cybersecurity, education, and basically everything else. With over 310 episodes in the catalog, they've built up a serious archive. The format is long-form conversation, and they mean it. Episodes regularly stretch past 90 minutes, with some clocking in over two hours. That length isn't filler -- Nathan in particular has a knack for asking follow-up questions that push guests past their rehearsed talking points. Recent episodes have included Helen Toner discussing automated AI R&D, Mark Zuckerberg and Priscilla Chan on AI-powered biology, and deep explorations of AGI timelines and AI safety. Nathan brings a unique perspective as someone who genuinely uses AI tools in his own work and isn't shy about sharing what he thinks is overhyped or underappreciated. Erik's venture background adds a business lens that keeps conversations grounded in what's actually getting funded and built. Together they strike a balance between technical depth and strategic thinking that's hard to find elsewhere. The show publishes roughly twice a week. It's best suited for listeners who want to sit with big ideas for a while rather than skim headlines. At 4.5 stars from 93 ratings on Apple Podcasts, it has earned a loyal following among the seriously AI-curious.