Maria 01 – the Nordics’ leading startup community and launchpad for innovation – has recently launched M01 Rocketeers, a podcast dedicated to exploring the possibilities of emerging technologies and visionary ideas.
In its latest series Future Tales, the podcast explores provocative scenarios around the future of work, presenting thought-provoking stories that blend imagination with strategic foresight. Each episode brings listeners insights from influential leaders in Finland’s startup ecosystem, all of whom weigh in on the crucial role of human skills and technology in shaping the future.
Every episode of Future Tales opens with a carefully crafted fictional story that sets the stage for discussion. The first episode explores pressing questions around the future of work with AI: How will humans and machines work together? Could an “AI twin” simplify the lives of busy founders? And as technology reshapes workplaces, what essential qualities will remain uniquely human?
The opening episode of the M01 Rocketeers podcast series features the following experts:
Chris Petrie, CEO and Co-Founder of Kwizie, the #1 AI-powered quiz test maker that turns all kinds of videos into interactive learning experiences.
Lauri Paloheimo, Co-Founder and Head of Change at Pandatron, a leader in AI-driven coaching and change management.
Jaakko Kaikuluoma, CEO and Co-Founder of Teamspective, a solution that boosts organizational performance through employee engagement, management, and collaboration.
The discussion is hosted by Camilla Mikama, Marketing & Communications Manager at Maria 01, and each episode includes special commentary from Sarita Runeberg, CEO of Maria 01.
Together, these guests discuss the potential of AI to support human productivity and creativity, while sharing their perspectives on the evolving dynamics between people and technology in the workplace.
The first episode opens with an imaginative address from a fictional Prime Minister. Set in a speculative future, it explores a European Union project designed to create “AI twins”, i.e., digital replicas of top minds to disseminate knowledge at speeds beyond human capacity. The goal was to address an AI talent shortage that had left Europe vulnerable, as many experts migrated to the U.S. and China. These “AI twins” initially succeeded, enhancing productivity across the continent and positioning Europe as a leader in technological advancement.
However, as time went on, cracks began to appear. The narrative reveals that while AI can teach technical skills, it falls short in transferring human-centric skills like empathy, creativity, and collaborative intuition. The Prime Minister’s fictional address highlights a profound realization: machines – regardless of sophistication – cannot replicate the depth of human emotion and connection. Consequently, the story envisions a future where humanity must reassume its traditional role in mentorship, emphasizing human guidance and interpersonal skills in education and development.
Following the scenario, the episode’s guests share their views on the evolving relationship between humans and AI in the workplace, and offer insights into the areas where technology can enhance productivity and where it cannot replace human contributions.
M01 Rocketeers encourages its audience to understand the nuanced relationship between people and technology. As AI becomes a more integrated part of work and life, the podcast serves as a reminder that true innovation stems from the synergy between technological advancement and unique human qualities.
