Ben Horowitz: What Founders Must Know About AI and Crypto

This week on the a16z Podcast, we're sharing a feed drop from Impact Theory with Tom Bilyeu, featuring a wide-ranging conversation with a16z cofounder Ben Horowitz. Artificial intelligence isn't just a tool — it's a tectonic shift. In this episode, Ben joins Tom to break down what AI really is (and isn't), where it's taking us, and why it matters. They dive into the historical parallels, the looming policy battles, and how innovation cycles have always created — not destroyed — opportunity. From the future of work and education to the global AI race and the role of blockchain in preserving trust, Ben shares hard-won insights from decades at the forefront of technological disruption. It's a masterclass in long-term thinking for anyone building, investing, or navigating what's coming next. Resources:  Listen to more episodes of Impact Theory with Tom Bilyeu: https://link.chtbl.com/impacttheory Watch full conversations on YouTube: youtube.com/tombilyeu Follow Tom on Instagram: @tombilyeu Learn more about Impact Theory: impacttheory.com Timecodes:  00:00 Introduction to Impact Theory with Ben Horowitz 01:12 The Disruptive Power of AI 02:01 Understanding AI and Its Implications 04:19 The Future of Jobs in an AI-Driven World 06:52 Human Intelligence vs. Artificial Intelligence 10:31 The Role of AI in Society 21:41 AI and the Future of Work 35:07 The AI Race: US vs. China 41:25 The Importance of Blockchain in an AI World 44:26 Government Regulation and Blockchain 45:16 The Need for Stablecoins 45:45 Energy Challenges and AI 49:53 Market Structure Bill and Token Regulation 53:51 Blockchain's Trust and Adoption 01:04:17 Elon Musk's Government Involvement 01:12:03 Historical Figures and Modern Parallels 01:18:41 AI and Creativity in Business 01:21:29 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Stay Updated:  Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16z Find a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16z Find a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16z Subscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/ Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenberg Please note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures