Impact Quantum: A Podcast for the Quantum Curious

Welcome to another episode of Impact Quantum, where we explore the cutting edge of quantum computing and emerging technologies reshaping our world.
Today, co-hosts Frank La Vigne and Candace Gillhoolley sit down with Vivek Raghunathan, co-founder of Xscape Photonics, to delve into the revolutionary intersection of photonics, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing. From comparing the astounding power efficiency of the human brain to today's AI clusters, to discussing how multicolor lasers could unlock massive advancements in data center performance and sustainability, Vivek shares how his company is tackling the growing power demands of AI by reimagining the future of hardware.
We’ll hear why the traditional focus on faster processors is giving way to a new era where the speed and efficiency of inter-chip communication—powered by light, not electricity—becomes the key to smarter, greener computing.
Tune in as we decode the transformation of data center architecture, explore the practical and philosophical implications of merging photonics and electronics, and peek into how today’s innovations lay the foundation for tomorrow’s quantum breakthroughs.
Whether you’re a seasoned technologist or just quantum-curious, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss!
Links
Vivek on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/vivek-raghunathan-8228913a/
XScape Photonics - https://www.xscapephotonics.com/
Watch on YouTube - https://youtu.be/NcXWZyPuyqE

Time Stamps
00:00 Discussing Montreal weather transition
05:04 AI efficiency and power use
10:14 Advancing data transfer on copper wires
11:31 Copper vs. fiber optics limits
17:13 Optical cables replacing copper wires
20:36 Quantum computing and comb lasers
24:32 Integrating electronics and photonics
27:40 AI efficiency and energy consumption
31:54 Photonics on 12-inch wafers
33:39 Analog computation basics
37:50 Transition to photonic computing
42:24 Data center strategy discussions
45:32 NVIDIA's holistic system design approach
47:05 High-bandwidth cluster discussion
51:31 Reducing data center power consumption
53:42 Candace and Frank on podcasts

In this episode, co-host Candace Cahootie sits down with Christopher Turk, a leading expert in post-quantum cryptography at KPMG, to unpack the pressing issues facing organizations as quantum technology inches ever closer to breaking conventional encryption.
Together, they dive into why Washington, D.C. has become a unique hotbed for quantum security, how government mandates are shaping adoption, and why the real challenge in post-quantum cryptography may lie more in asset identification than in technology itself. You'll hear firsthand accounts of red teaming quantum systems, debates on collaboration across the industry, and practical advice for both regulated and non-regulated sectors. Whether you're a quantum expert or "quantum curious," this episode will give you fresh insights on preparing for a crypto-future—where today's paranoia is tomorrow's best practice.
Links
Christopher on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-t-9a259783/
Watch on YouTube - https://youtu.be/AP0vKL-2J20

Time Stamps
00:00 Post-quantum cryptography origins
05:34 Cybersecurity threats to financial systems
09:18 International collaboration challenges
11:15 Changing perspectives on Nvidia
14:09 Need for better collaboration in quantum
19:57 Enhancing restaurant user experience
23:46 Technical vs. compliance focus in PQC
26:10 Understanding RSA configuration and security
29:56 Challenges in managing cryptographic identities
30:53 Discussing Salesforce sandbox integration
34:28 Bypassing quantum security measures
40:07 Credential Expiration and Security Risks
42:27 Discussing security measures for Dingo
44:37 Networking and upcoming conferences

In this episode, we're joined by Rachel Noek, Senior Research Scientist and Technical Program Manager at the Duke Quantum Center. Rachel shares her journey from industry to academia, her experiences developing photonic kits for inspiring the next generation, and her insights on the rapidly evolving landscape of quantum computing.
We dive into the unique challenges of project management in deep tech environments, the essential collaboration between academia and industry, and what the future holds for quantum technologies. Rachel also discusses how hands-on learning can demystify complex concepts, why the quantum field needs talent beyond physicists, and her vision for a quantum-enabled future.
Whether you're quantum-curious or an industry veteran, this conversation is packed with inspiration and practical wisdom about the quantum revolution
Links
Watch on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VKpbvjPnmT0
Rachel Noek on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-noek-qc/

Time Stamps
00:00 Facing unknown challenges
06:53 Funding and goals of Duke Quantum Center
10:44 Explaining light absorption and emission
13:51 Role of academia and industry in quantum computers
15:54 Transition from Software to Data Science
20:56 Role as a technical project manager
23:25 Facing unknown challenges
26:59 Entering the Quantum Industry
30:12 Integrating quantum computing in biology
33:19 Reflecting on early tech experiences
36:16 Decluttering before the big move
40:44 Growth of Quantum Computing Field
45:07 Challenges in shifting to EVs
48:20 Upcoming Trapped Ions Conference

In today’s episode, we sit down with Severyn Balaniuk, a research software developer at 1QBit, whose journey from reading "Programming the Universe" in high school to contributing to quantum advancements provides a unique insider’s perspective. We’ll explore the real relationship between AI and quantum, why networking and communication matter just as much as coding, and which quantum breakthroughs may be on the horizon.
From debates on the future of programming languages like Julia, to insights into government-backed quantum corridors, open source’s pivotal role, and the biggest misconceptions about quantum computing, this episode offers a candid reality check in a field defined by both promise and hype. Whether you’re a curious student or a seasoned developer, tune in to discover what it really means to build the future—one quantum leap at a time.
Links
Severyn on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/severynbalaniuk/
Watch on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qf4rw0fFn4o

Time Stamps
00:00 Explaining Quantum AI vs AI for Quantum
06:00 Importance of Networking in Quantum
10:00 Current AI industry outlook
10:59 Government goals for quantum computing
14:37 Debating AI's role in quantum
18:22 Investing in Quantum Computing
23:34 Programming language demand in quantum computing
26:36 Misconceptions about quantum computing
28:04 Quantum computing platforms to watch
32:28 Importance of open source in quantum
37:41 Open source in quantum computing
39:45 Key skills for researchers
43:28 Quantum computing's potential impact
46:05 Learning practical skills and feedback
50:16 Candace and Frank's quantum podcast

This week, Candace and Frank are back, diving into a summer that's hot in more ways than one—with quantum breakthroughs, climate conversations, and tech trends heating up worldwide. The duo unpacks the latest global developments in quantum computing, including the U.S. government's renewed commitment, developments in Canada, Europe, and Israel, and Microsoft's milestone in qubit lifetime. They examine the growing intersection of quantum with AI, data centers, and national security, plus the evolving landscape of data infrastructure and the societal impacts of new technology.
From venture capital shifts and startup culture to quantum’s role in drug discovery and cyber defense, this episode connects the dots between today's tech headlines and the world of tomorrow. Whether you’re quantum curious or a seasoned pro, get ready for insightful discussion, international updates, and a look at how quantum is shaping our future.
Time Stamps
00:00 Portable air conditioning basics
03:59 New job at ClearML announcement
08:51 AI's Role in Upcoming Elections
09:53 High power line concerns
13:24 Data centers in Loudoun County
18:36 Microsoft's quantum computing breakthrough
20:19 Viral movie clip memes
24:36 Venture Capital's Role in Tech
26:35 Explaining data potential with chess analogy
30:38 Tech impact on global stability
35:49 Quantum podcast and cosmic connections