AI, Meaning & the New Humanity

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.

Key Topics Discussed:

• 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

About Gary F. Bengier

Bengier was born on February 25, 1955, an American entrepreneur, business executive, technologist and writer. He is best known as the CFO of eBay, who led the company’s initial and secondary public offerings. He also took senior executive positions at various Silicon Valley technology companies.

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
Get copies of his Books: Unfettered Journey and Journey to 2125 
Audiobooks also available with full-cast narration
Follow Gary:
Instagram: @gary
Facebook: @garybengierauthor

Further Reading and Resources 

TED Talks: Ideas worth spreading

Psychology Today: Psychology Today is devoted exclusively to everybody’s favourite subject – Ourselves

Life Hack: Tips for Life

Elite Daily: The Voice of Generation Y

Four Hour Work Week: How to escape the 9-5, live anywhere and join the new rich.

The Minimalists: How to pursue a minimalist lifestyle and be happier.

Mind Hacks: Tips and Tricks for Using Your Brain

Rich Roll: Plantpowered Wellness Advocate

The Art of Charm: Build confidence, feel comfortable and networking differently.

American Psychological Association: The largest scientific and professional organization of psychologists in the United State

The Art of Manliness: Encouraging men to be better husbands, fathers, brothers, citizens.

Tiny Buddha: Simple wisdom for complex lives.

Brain Pickings: An inventory of cross-disciplinary interestingness, spanning art, science, design, history, philosophy, and more.

Mind Body Green: Lifestyle media brand dedicated to inspiring you to live your best life.

Zen Habits: Find simplicity and mindfulness in life.

Creative NonFiction: “true stories well told.” 

Addicted 2 Success: Motivation & Inspiration Website full of quotes and inspiring articles for entrepreneurs.

Barking Up the Wrong Tree: science-based answers and expert insight on how to be awesome at life.