AI and robotics are no longer futuristic concepts; they are transforming the world in real time. On The AI Grapple, I had the privilege of speaking with Arshad Hisham, a global leader in AI, automation, and robotics. With over two decades of experience, he has built multiple tech companies, secured millions in funding, and is at the forefront of AI-driven innovation.
In our conversation, we explored the rapid advancements in artificial general intelligence (AGI), the role of AI in reshaping industries like healthcare and education, and the pressing need for responsible AI development. Whether you're an entrepreneur, business leader, or just curious about AI’s trajectory, this episode is a must-listen.
How Close Are We to Artificial General Intelligence (AGI)?
The idea of AGI - AI that can perform any intellectual task a human can - is one of the most debated topics in the AI world. Arshad believes that while AI has made astonishing progress, true AGI remains a moving target.
Many large language models can now engage in near-human-level conversation, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they “understand” the world like humans do. The real question, according to Arshad, is: Do we even need AGI? From a practical standpoint, he suggests that specialized AI models may be more beneficial than a single, all-powerful AGI.
However, if we do reach AGI, the next step - artificial superintelligence (ASI) - will follow quickly. “The train doesn’t stop at AGI,” he warns. “Once we get there, ASI could be just days or months away. The real question is: Are we ready for it?”
AI Safety and the Unintended Consequences We Need to Address
AI safety is often framed in extremes - either AI will revolutionize the world or destroy it. But Arshad brings a more measured perspective.
The biggest risk with AI isn’t an evil superintelligence; it’s accidental consequences. As AI systems become more complex, they can misinterpret instructions or act in ways that humans didn’t anticipate. The danger isn’t malice - it’s misalignment.
For example, current AI guardrails can often be bypassed with creative prompts. Arshad warns that as AI becomes more widely accessible, even well-intentioned individuals could unintentionally create harmful outcomes.
He stresses that AI development needs to be a coordinated effort among governments, businesses, and academic institutions. But with AI advancing at breakneck speed, keeping up is becoming increasingly difficult.
AI’s Impact on the Workforce - Will It Make Us Smarter or Replace Us?
One of the biggest concerns surrounding AI is its impact on jobs. Will AI make humans obsolete? Arshad challenges that narrative, instead drawing a historical comparison:
When calculators emerged, people feared they would make us worse at math.
When computers became mainstream, there was concern that they would replace human thought.
Now, with AI, people fear it will make us “lazy” or “stupid.”
But in reality, technology has always freed us up to focus on higher-level tasks. The real challenge isn’t job loss - it’s whether businesses and governments are prepared for the reskilling that AI demands.
Arshad believes that education is no longer something that ends in our 20s. “Lifelong learning is now a necessity, not an option,” he says. Businesses that invest in AI literacy and upskilling their workforce will thrive, while those that resist will struggle.
How AI is Revolutionizing Healthcare and Special Needs Support
Not all AI applications are about productivity - some have the potential to improve lives on a massive scale. Arshad is particularly focused on what he calls “Cinderella sectors” - industries like healthcare, aged care, and special needs education that often lack major investment but have immense potential for impact.
His company is actively developing AI-powered healthcare companions to assist the elderly and support individuals with special needs. These AI tools can provide companionship, assist with daily tasks, and help alleviate strain on overburdened healthcare systems.
“We’re all going to get old,” Arshad says. “The question is, will we have AI that makes those years easier and more dignified?”
His work with the UK’s NHS and universities aims to integrate AI into healthcare systems in a way that enhances, rather than replaces, human care.
The Business Landscape Is Shifting - Are You Ready?
AI isn’t just changing how we work - it’s changing how businesses operate. Arshad predicts a rise in one-person AI unicorns, where a single entrepreneur can build and scale a billion-dollar company using AI-powered automation.
At the same time, he warns that many industries will experience backlash. Strikes and protests against AI-driven job displacement are already happening, and this resistance will likely grow before companies find a sustainable way to integrate AI into their workforce.
His advice for businesses? Identify small, high-impact AI applications that improve efficiency today, rather than trying to overhaul everything at once.
Key Takeaways from My Conversation with Arshad Hisham
AGI is inevitable, but specialized AI may be more practical. While full AGI is still uncertain, businesses should focus on AI that enhances human capabilities rather than replaces them.
AI safety is about preventing unintended consequences. The biggest risks with AI aren’t evil superintelligence, but misalignment and misuse by well-intentioned individuals.
Job displacement is real, but so is reskilling. AI won’t necessarily replace jobs, but companies that don’t invest in upskilling their workforce will struggle.
AI in healthcare and education has massive untapped potential. Investing in AI-driven support systems for the elderly, special needs communities, and education could drive meaningful societal improvements.
Businesses that don’t adopt AI will fall behind. Companies should start with small, high-impact AI tools to improve efficiency and productivity rather than waiting for the "perfect" AI solution.
The Future of AI is in Our Hands
As we wrapped up, Arshad emphasized that AI’s future isn’t set in stone. Whether it brings unparalleled innovation or unintended disaster depends on how we develop and implement it.
AI isn’t just another technology shift - it’s a fundamental transformation of how we live and work. The challenge now is ensuring we shape AI, rather than letting it shape us.
For businesses, the path forward is clear: AI is here to stay. Adapt, upskill, and leverage its power responsibly.
Stay tuned for more expert insights and practical advice on The AI Grapple, where we dive into the groundbreaking advancements shaping AI, robotics, and automation. Don't miss this episode - listen now on your favorite podcast platform or watch the full video interview on our YouTube channel.
Links and Resources:
· Arshad Hisham’s Website: https://www.arshadhisham.com/
· InGen Dynamics: https://www.ingendynamics.com/
· LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arshadhisham/