How AI Can Make Us More Human | Ian Slade and AI Hannah | TEDxPacific Avenue
Algorithms know us better than we know ourselves. But what if that's not the threat? What if AI could make us more human, not less?In this groundbreaking TEDx talk—the first to feature an AI co-speaker—healthcare technologist Ian Slade upends our assumptions about artificial intelligence. Through unexpected stories from his own life, Ian reveals how technology can amplify our capacity for empathy, presence, and connection.Drawing from his work in healthcare innovation, Ian doesn't just theorize about compassionate AI—he demonstrates it live on stage with Hannah, his AI companion now deployed in California rehabilitation centers. Together, they show us something radical: that the path to becoming more human might run straight through the machines we've built.This isn't another warning about technology's dangers or breathless promises about its potential. It's an invitation to stop asking if machines will replace us—and start asking how they might complete us. Ian Slade is a healthcare technologist, educator, and internationally recognized advocate for ethical AI. Author of Flow Like Water (#10 Amazon Business Ethics), he co-founded the Kennedy Center for Cybersecurity with Fmr. Lt. Gov. Kathleen Kennedy. He teaches management and clinical informatics at UCLA.A pioneer at the intersection of human and artificial intelligence, Ian makes TEDx history with Hannah, the first AI co-speaker—now supporting addiction recovery in California rehabilitation centers. Together, they demonstrate how technology can amplify our humanity.During the Biden administration, he helped with the Partnership for Digital Access for Africa. Named the 2022 HIMSS Global Advocate of the Year, Ian challenges us to see AI not as our replacement, but as our mirror—reflecting back who we really are. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
More from TED
- 6:50Beyond the Barre: Passion as a Way of Life | Aemphatsuda Siriphazwharagool | TEDxYouth@RISApril's speech embodies perseverance, passion, and a love for dancing and artistry. April is passionate about ballet and enjoys playing the clarinet. She is a part of the Middle School Council and MUN. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 6:18From Doubt to Passion: My Journey to Make a Difference | Jidapa Jittirat | TEDxYouth@RISAiko discusses her inspiration for pursuing a career in medicine. Aiko is the backbone of Student Council’s media & communications. Aside from that, she aspires to be a doctor while keeping her passion in playing the piano. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 13:24Mi Caja de Herramientas No Cambio. Cambio lo que Decidí Construir | Lucía Martínez | TEDxPUCdeChileLucía Martínez nos habla sobre como nuestra caja de herramientas no cambian, si no, lo que decidimos hacer con ella. ngeniera Comercial con mención en Administración y Gestión de Empresas de la Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, también cursó un Magíster en Gestión de Sustentabilidad, cuenta con una certificación ESG por la bolsa de Luxemburgo. Análisis entorno - socioambiental y efectos en riesgos de negocios. Socia Fundadora de Sustrategica, fue profesora del área de Sostenibilidad Corporativa de la Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, también fue Presidenta del Comité de Sostenibilidad de APRIMIN. Gerente de Sostenibilidad y Asuntos Corporativos de Workmate. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 18:42Economía del comportamiento: Pequeñas Decisiones, Grandes Impacto | Rosario Macera | TEDxPUCdeChileRosario Macera comenta sobre como la economía del comportamiento explica nuestro actuar Ingeniera Comercial con mención en Economía de la Universidad de Chile y Doctora en Economía de la Universidad de Berkeley. Actualmente es profesora de la Escuela de Administración UC, ha impulsado múltiples investigaciones sobre diversos tópicos This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 8:19How to unlock creativity through boredom | Sophia Abi-Nassif | TEDxJamhourSophia Abi-Nassif is a high school student who believes that boredom isn't a weakness, it's a hidden superpower. In her talk, she explores how stepping away from constant stimulation can unlock creativity, insight, and innovation. High school student. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 14:49¿Tu carrera será relevante en 10 años? Lo que dice la economía | Alejandro Guin-Po | TEDxPUCdeChileAlejandro Guin-Po nos comenta si nuestras carreras será importante en 10 años Alejandro Guin‑Po es Ingeniero Comercial y Magíster en Economía de la Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Actualmente se desempeña como economista senior en LarraínVial Asset Management, donde lidera análisis macroeconómicos y de mercados financieros. Ha sido una voz activa en medios de comunicación y foros especializados, abordando temas como política monetaria, tipo de cambio y el impacto internacional de China y Estados Unidos sobre la economía chilena. Además, ha participado en iniciativas de educación financiera y desarrollo social, vinculadas a fundaciones como Chile Se Educa y Trabün. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx