In this episode co-hosts Dr. Billy Riggs and Vipul Vyas explore the complex dynamics of global shifts, focusing on tariffs, trade, and the impact of US policies on innovation and talent. They discuss the implications of isolationism, the role of Europe and China in shaping the future of automation, and the political dysfunction that hinders progress in the US. The dialogue emphasizes the need for a new understanding of global cooperation and the importance of maintaining leverage in a multipolar world.

Takeaways

- The US is facing a potential isolation due to its trade policies.
- Tariffs are being used as a tool for leverage in global trade.
- The attractiveness of the US as a destination for talent is declining.
- Other economies are becoming more competitive, reducing the US's talent extraction advantage.
- Political dysfunction in the US is a significant barrier to innovation.
- The future of American innovation depends on rebuilding trust with allies.
- A multipolar world is emerging, challenging US dominance.
- Europe and China are advancing in automation and innovation.
- The US must invest in domestic capacity to remain competitive.
- The current global landscape requires a reimagining of international agreements.

Sound bites

- "What's going on with tariffs?"
- "We're not beholden to anyone."
- "The map is being redrawn."

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction
00:41 - Explanation of Omission from Episode 10
01:44 - Welcome to Rewiring the American Edge
03:33 - What's Going on With Tariffs
05:38 - The Risk of Volatility
08:47 - Impacts to Innovation: Access to Markets and Talent
14:52 - Navigating Conflict in Politics Helps Facilitate Innovation
16:22 - Importance of Agile Regulation
18:47 - Maintaining Economic Leverage
25:46 - Closing

Additional Resources

American Allies Want to Redraw the World’s Trade Map, Minus the U.S

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/13/world/europe/trump-tariffs-trade-europe-us.html

China’s Economy Grows Steadily Despite Trump’s Tariffs

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/14/business/china-economy-gdp-q2.html

ASML and the Dutch Chip Industry

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/05/technology/asml-chips-tariffs-trade.html

In this episode, host Billy Riggs talks with Dr. John (Hans) Gilderbloom who shares his personal journey and insights on housing policy, community engagement, and the health impacts of pollution, along with his wife Carla Snyder who talks about their forthcoming documentary Climate of Hope. The conversation explores the intersection of climate change, urbanism, and social justice, emphasizing the role of technology in addressing environmental challenges. The discussion highlights the importance of creating sustainable solutions that consider the needs of underserved communities and the potential of technology to drive change.

Takeaways

- AI and innovation can significantly enhance environmental solutions.

- Community engagement is crucial for addressing climate challenges.

- Historical context shapes current urban and housing policies.

- Health impacts of pollution are disproportionately felt in marginalized communities.

- Gentrification can lead to investment and revitalization if managed correctly.

- Data-driven approaches are essential for effective urban planning.

- Sustainable living requires collaboration across all levels of society.

- The role of technology in measuring and addressing pollution is vital.

- Creating a legacy for future generations is a shared responsibility.

- Funding and community involvement are key to successful climate initiatives.

Sound Bites

- "We need our communities to create a legacy."

- "We can measure pollution at every block."

- "We need a playbook for sustainable living."

Additional Resources

Climate Chaos: Killing People, Places, and the Planet (2025)

Edited by John Hans Gilderbloom

20% off at the link below

https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/climate-chaos-9781666940510/

Chromatic Homes: The Joy of Color in Historic Places
by John Hans Gilderbloom
https://www.kentuckypress.com/9780813176147/chromatic-homes/

Climate of Hope Documentary Trailer

Climate of Hope Documentary
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yotW0FpYCcc&t=2s | https://climateofhopefilm.org/
Email questions, comments or any inquires to carla@carlajsnyder.com

Riggs, W. & Gilderbloom, J. (2016). Two-Way Street Conversion: Evidence of Increased Livability in Louisville. Journal of Planning Education & Research. https://doi.org/10.1177/0739456X15593147

Riggs, W. and Gilderbloom, J. (2015). ‘Two-Ways’ to Fix Our Neighborhoods. Planetizen.com. Retrieved from http://www.planetizen.com/node/75629/two-ways-fix-our-neighborhoods

End of the Road: Reimagining the Street as the Heart of the City
By William Riggs

https://bristoluniversitypress.co.uk/end-of-the-road

Chapters

00:00 - Welcome to Rewiring the American Edge
01:02 - Exploring the Intersection of Planning, Design & Automation
03:33 - John Gilderbloom: From Activism to Academia
05:41 - The Impact of Rent Control and Housing Policy
07:28 - Historic Preservation as an Affordable Housing Strategy
09:09 - Rethinking Rental Housing and Urban Studies
09:54 - Reconnecting Through Academia
10:49 - The Book – Climate Chaos
13:10 - The Impact of Pollution on Health
17:06 - Technology's Role in Addressing Urban Issues
19:59 - Engaging Communities for Sustainable Change
22:24 - The Urgency of Climate Action

In this episode, the hosts Billy Riggs and Vipul Vyas talk shop with special guest Lee Riggs and discuss the intersection of innovation, automation, and education in the context of the American economy. They explore the challenges posed by uncertainty and chaos, the role of technology in education, and the need for cities to remain competitive. The conversation emphasizes the importance of preparing for inevitable changes and the potential of crises to spur innovation. The hosts also highlight the need for long-term thinking in governance and the evolving landscape of jobs in the face of automation.

Takeaways
- Innovation and automation are crucial for the future of the economy.
- Chaos and uncertainty are normal cycles that require proactive planning.
- Technology is increasingly integrated into education, offering both - benefits and challenges.
- Cities must avoid complacency and adapt to global changes.
- Preparing for inevitable changes is essential for resilience.
- Crisis can drive innovation and technological advancement.
- Long-term thinking is necessary for effective governance.
- The future of jobs will require new skills and adaptability.
- Creativity will be a key differentiator in a world influenced by AI.
- Local resolve and private capital are vital for economic growth.

Sound bites
"Innovation ain't waiting for you."
"Crisis can be a good crisis."
"Innovation is here to stay."

Additional Resources:
Europe Stuck Between US and China
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/06/world/europe/european-union-china-tariffs.html
Who will AI impact most?
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/07/business/ai-job-cuts.html

Chapters
00:00 - Welcome to Rewiring the American Edge
01:45 - Navigating Chaos and Uncertainty
04:56 - The Role of Technology in Education
10:37 - Preparing for Future Changes
15:38 - Innovation as a Growth Engine
20:59 - The Future of Work and Creativity

In this conversation, Billy Riggs and Vipul Vyas explore the intersection of automation, urban policy, and the future of cities. They discuss the intrinsic value of streets and urban spaces, the need for transformative land use, and the challenges facing public transportation systems. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of adapting to technological changes while ensuring inclusivity and community engagement in urban planning.

#automation #urban policy #streets #publictransportation #landuse #economicimpacts #AI #urbanplanning #mobility #infrastructure

Takeaways
-Automation and innovation can reshape urban spaces.
-Streets should be viewed as critical infrastructure with economic value.
-Zoning laws need to be reformed to adapt to modern needs.
-Public transportation must improve its customer experience.
-Cities should facilitate organic growth and experimentation.
-The curb space is becoming increasingly valuable due to demand.
-Public transit systems are struggling with outdated models.
-There is a generational divide in attitudes towards urban development.
-Automation can create new job opportunities if managed well.
-Community engagement is essential for successful urban policy.

Sound bites
"The curb has intrinsic economic value."
"We have to let people experiment."
"Zoning is completely broken."

Chapters
00:00 - Introduction to the American Edge
02:04 - Healthcare and Global Disease Impact
03:14 - Urban Policy and Automation
05:52 - Reframing Streets as Critical Infrastructure
08:21 - The Dynamic Value of Curb Space
10:27 - Perception of Chaos in Automated Solutions
13:22 - Generational Perspectives on Infrastructure
15:31 - The Promise of Automation for Future Generations
20:08 - The Evolution of Urban Spaces
26:55 - Rethinking Public Transportation
39:43 - The Future of Jobs and Infrastructure

Additional Content

• Riggs, W. (2022). End of the Road: Reimagining the Street As the Heart of the City. Bristol University Press. https://bristoluniversitypress.co.uk/end-of-the-road
• Riggs, W. (2024) Advances in Automated Driving: Perceptions of Safety, Operations and Comfort From Riders (June 30, 2024). Available at SSRN: https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=5318692
• Riggs, W. (2024) Designing the Future Curb: Eight Visions for Adaptive Urban Edges (December 01, 2024). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=5283742 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.5283742

In this episode hosts Billy Riggs and Vipul Vyas talk with Dr. Henriette Cornet (Autonomous Vehicles & the City co-director and founder of Urban Innovate) about autonomous vehicles and sustainability, highlighting the importance of innovation in public transport. The discussion covers the differences between the US and Europe in terms of investment and development in autonomous vehicle technology, the role of public infrastructure, and insights from the UITP Summit in Hamburg. Dr. Cornet discusses Important Projects of Common European Interest (IPCEIs), and players such as HOLON with Hamberger Hochbahn and MOIA conduting interesting AV experiments in the European marketplace. The conversation also critically examines Tesla's robotaxi experiment and the implications of AI in transportation and urban planning, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to mobility that prioritizes quality of life.

Additional Resource -
Urban Innovate TALKS | Waymo vs. Tesla

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=89G5Kf_isQY

Takeaways
- Dr. Cornet emphasizes the transformative potential of autonomous vehicles for society.
- Public infrastructure is crucial for the viability of the automotive industry.
- There is a significant investment gap between the US and Europe in AV technology.
- Innovations in public transport are essential for adapting to new technologies.
- The UITP Summit showcased promising developments in shared mobility services.
- Tesla's approach to self-driving raises concerns about safety and public perception.
- The future of mobility should focus on enhancing quality of life in cities.
- Collaboration between public transport agencies and tech companies is vital.
- Rethinking cost allocation in public transport can lead to better service.
- Active mobility, such as walking, should be integrated into urban planning.

Chapters
00:00 - Introduction to Autonomous Vehicles and Sustainability
05:09 - The Role of Public Infrastructure in Vehicle Dependency
11:00 - Insights from the UITP Summit in Hamburg
11:33 - Comparative Approaches to Autonomous Mobility in Europe and the US
15:44 - Future of Autonomous Shuttles and Public Transport Integration
22:18 - Geopolitical Dynamics and Open Source AI
28:06 - The Future of Autonomous Vehicles
29:55- Brief Comments on Tesla Robotaxi Experiment
35:24 - AI, Safety, and Ethical Considerations
40:45 - The Role of Cities in Shaping Mobility

In this episode of Rewiring the American Edge, hosts Billy Riggs and Vipul Vyas talk with special guest Ruth Whittaker Director of Civic Innovation Policy at the Chamber of Program discussing the future of labor in the context of automation and autonomous vehicles. They explore the potential for job creation, the importance of middle-skilled labor, and the need for workforce development. The conversation also touches on the shift from vehicle ownership to car as a service, the impact of AVs on urban planning, and the regulatory challenges facing innovation in the U.S. Ultimately, the discussion emphasizes the need for proactive training and investment in the workforce to prepare for the future of work.

Takeaways
-Automation isn't just about displacing jobs; it's about reinventing labor.
-Middle-skilled labor may be essential for the future workforce.
-AVs rely on traditional job models, creating new opportunities.
-Job experience may be more valuable than formal education.
-The future of work is fertile and offers exciting possibilities.
-Investment in job training programs is crucial for future success.
-The entire country can compete for AV jobs, not just tech hubs.
-Regulatory challenges hinder innovation in the U.S. automotive industry.
-Transportation credits could enhance housing affordability.
-Communities must adapt to the changing landscape of work and transportation.

Sound bites
"Automation isn't just about displacing jobs."
"The entire country can compete for AV jobs."
"There's going to be a transition to atoms from electrons."
"The future of work is fertile and exciting."

Chapters
00:00 - Introduction to the Future of Work
07:37 - The Impact of Autonomous Vehicles on Employment
16:31 - Middle-Skill Jobs and Workforce Evolution
25:24 - The Role of Location in Future Job Markets
25:48 - The Future of Manufacturing and Workforce Skills
27:53 - The Role of OEMs in Innovation
29:39 - Autonomous Vehicles and Job Creation
33:54 - Regulatory Challenges and Global Competition
34:19 - Balancing Innovation and Regulation in the Tech Industry
37:34 - Shifting Narratives on Automation and Employment
44:44 - Preparing for the Future: Training and Investment Opportunities

Additional Resources:
Chamber of Progress. 2024. Opportunity AV: How Many and What Types of Jobs Will Be Created by Autonomous Vehicles? https://progresschamber.org/new-study-autonomous-vehicle-jobs-to-exceed-110k-in-u-s/
Riggs, William, Urban Autonomy & Disruptive Transport in the United States: Benchmarking Urban Policy and Programs (October 26, 2018). http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.3273431
Riggs, William, Revisiting Location Efficiency: Strategies to Graduate Thinking on Mortgage Policy (April 11, 2016). http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.2805483

In this conversation, Vipul Vyas and Billy Riggs discuss the erosion of trust in global institutions, particularly focusing on the implications of foreign affiliations and national security concerns. They explore the challenges faced by U.S. institutions like Harvard in navigating these issues, the impact of foreign student policies on academic freedom, and the balance between fostering innovation and ensuring security. The discussion also highlights the role of technology in enhancing trust and the need for institutions to be mindful of geopolitical tensions.

Takeaways

• Trust in global institutions is eroding, impacting national security.
• The concept of 'guarding the gates' reflects growing scrutiny of foreign affiliations.
• Loss of trust can lead to significant consequences for institutions.
• Harvard's position as a leading institution makes it a focal point for scrutiny.
• Foreign student policies can affect academic freedom and innovation.
• Balancing innovation with national security is increasingly complex.
• Technology can enhance trust but also poses risks.
• Geopolitical tensions require institutions to be more cautious.
• The implications of shaping public opinion are significant.
• Institutions must navigate vulnerabilities in a changing global landscape.

Titles

• Navigating Trust in Global Institutions
• Guarding the Gates: A New Era of Scrutiny

Sound Bites

• "We need to manage the narrative."
• "Should we be guarding the gates?"
• "We can't be blind anymore."

Chapters

00:00 - The Erosion of Unipolarity

06:45 - Guarding the Gates: Foreign Affiliations and US Institutions

09:24 - The Scrutiny of Academic Freedom

16:56 - The Role of Institutions in National Security

21:31 - Innovation and Security: A Delicate Balance

25:47 - Navigating Geopolitical Risks

30:30 - The Future of Innovation in a Complex World

Additional Content

• Blockchain and Distributed Autonomous Community Ecosystems: Opportunities to Democratize Finance and Delivery of Transport, Housing, Urban Greening and Community Infrastructure: (PDF Report)
• Riggs, William and Vyas, Vipul, Current State of Blockchain and Cryptocurrency for International Governments (December 31, 2022). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=4337641 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.4337641
• Riggs, William and Vyas, Vipul, Current State of Blockchain and Cryptocurrency for US States (December 31, 2022). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=4337624 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.4337624
• Riggs, William and Vyas, Vipul, Current State of Blockchain and Cryptocurrency for Major US Cities (December 31, 2022). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=4337656 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.4337656

In this episode of Rewiring the American Edge, hosts Billy Riggs and Vipul Vyas discuss the future of cities in the context of automation and innovation. They explore the challenges and opportunities presented by AI, the importance of education and critical thinking, and the need for bold leadership to prepare for a rapidly changing world. Special guest Seneca Scott shares insights on community organizing and the cultural readiness of cities to embrace technological advancements. The conversation emphasizes the need for universal basic infrastructure and the importance of fostering a culture of experimentation and aspiration in urban development.

Takeaways

• Cities must prepare for the future with innovative solutions.
• Europe faces significant challenges in closing the innovation gap.
• AI will reshape the future of work and society.
• Community engagement is crucial for effective political change.
• Education must focus on critical thinking and adaptability.
• Cultural readiness is as important as physical infrastructure.
• Universal basic infrastructure can enhance quality of life for all.
• Bold leadership is necessary to drive urban development.
• We must embrace experimentation in policy and infrastructure.
• The future requires a balance between technology and humanity.

Sound Bites

• "Europe has failed to innovate."
• "We need a balance of rule of law."
• "It's really about the people."

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Rewiring the American Dream

02:45 - The State of Innovation in Europe

07:56 - Introducing Seneca Scott and the Future of Labor

09:19 - Preparing for an Uncertain Future

14:48 - The Role of AI in Society

22:36 - Education and the Future of Thinking

30:29 - Investing in Our Future: Education and Infrastructure

33:12 - Cultural Readiness for Technological Change

36:53 - The Intersection of Infrastructure and Social Justice

41:53 - The Erosion of the Social Contract

49:25 - Bold Aspirations: Reimagining Urban Development