# Understanding Quantum’s Wild West - Hype, Hope, and Humility in a Rapidly Evolving Field

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/impact-quantum-a-podcast-for-the-quantum-curious-1309468/understanding-quantum-s-wild-west-hype-hope-and-humility-in-a-rapidly-evolving-field
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/impact-quantum-a-podcast-for-the-quantum-curious-1309468/understanding-quantum-s-wild-west-hype-hope-and-humility-in-a-rapidly-evolving-field.md
Podcast: [Impact Quantum: A Podcast for the Quantum Curious](https://stenobird.com/podcast/impact-quantum-a-podcast-for-the-quantum-curious-1309468)
Published: 2026-04-16T07:45:00+00:00
Episode link: http://impactquantum.com
Audio file: https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/6c174666-eb31-4059-b99f-f98b53a6816d.mp3
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/impact-quantum-a-podcast-for-the-quantum-curious-1309468/episodes/understanding-quantum-s-wild-west-hype-hope-and-humility-in-a-rapidly-evolving-field
Duration seconds: 3323

## Resource

In today’s episode, we’re joined by Sam Kearney, Head of Growth at Haiku, who shares his unconventional journey into the world of quantum technology—proving you don’t need a PhD in physics to make a meaningful impact. Alongside Candice Gillhoolley, we delve into how “careful software for clumsy quantum computers” is helping push the boundaries of what’s possible, discuss the latest on quantum error correction, the intersection of quantum and AI, and the critical roles that curiosity, humility, and diverse backgrounds play in this rapidly evolving field. Whether you’re a quantum insider or simply quantum curious, this episode will spark your imagination about the future of technology and how you can be a part of it. Links Sam's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/samkearney23/ Haiqu.ai - https://www.haiqu.ai/ Watch on YouTube - https://youtu.be/F0OQ9UlSlKM Time Stamps 00:00 Choosing a job title 05:31 Learning about energy and quantum systems 08:57 Quantum startup boot camp experience 11:35 Focus on quantum error mitigation 15:20 Availability of logical qubits on cloud 19:01 AI and quantum computing convergence 22:07 Targeting top quantum research teams 25:39 Preparing for quantum computing 28:51 Impact of simulations on design 32:21 Exploring careers in quantum tech 34:53 Embracing ignorance in communications 38:51 Networking and reaching out for learning 41:00 Quantum startups and big tech dynamics 45:59 Photonic integration strengths 49:15 Investments in quantum hardware companies 52:13 Concerns about SPACs and investing 53:21 Quantum's estimate on breaking RSA

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