Challenging the AI Oracle: Maya Ackerman on Music, Creativity, and Collaboration

Our guest today is Dr. Maya Ackerman, a world-renowned AI expert who has been at the forefront of generative AI since 2015. She holds a PhD in Computer Science, is a professor at Santa Clara University, and has authored over 60 research publications.  As the co-founder and CEO of WaveAI, one of the earliest generative AI startups, she specialises in creating systems that elevate AI from a novelty to an essential tool for millions. A recognised 'Woman of Influence' and sought after for her expertise by outlets such as NBC News and New Scientist, her perspective is truly unique. In our conversation, we explore the delicate balance between human and machine creativity. It's a relationship that requires trust, improvisation, and a deep understanding of what you could truly call the dance of leading and following. And that perspective is exactly what we explore today. This is a conversation that bridges worlds: from learning to play the piano and sing opera to becoming a CEO in AI.  We get into the very nature of creativity itself, discussing improvisation, hallucination, imagination, and what Maya refers to as 'computational creativity.' We even touch on science fiction, asking how these humble creative machines might elevate, and not replace, us in the near future. Show notes Connect with Maya on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mackerma/  LyricStudio: https://lyricstudio.net/  MelodyStudio: https://melodystudio.net/  Creative Machines Book (available for pre-order, releasing in Oct) https://www.amazon.com/Creative-Machines-Future-Human-Creativity/dp/1394316267  Mentioned in the talk, speculative fiction books by Annalee Newitz, check out Terraformers and Autonomous:  https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/191888.Annalee_Newitz  Show support Please choose one or more of the ‘three ways to support the show’: Subscribe to the podcast. Leave us a review — even one sentence helps! I appreciate your support; it helps the show! Tell your friends about the podcast and musicthinking.com Buy the book The Power of Music Thinking and/or the Jam Cards at a 20% discount using musicthinking20 at the check-out of the BIS Publishers website only.