AI Needs Intention, Not Fear | will.i.am on Leadership, Creativity & the Future of Artificial Intelligence

In this exclusive, on-the-floor conversation filmed for a CNBC future-focused series, Shekhar Natarajan walks alongside will.i.am for an unscripted, walkthrough-style exchange on AI leadership, creativity, ethics, and responsibility in the age of artificial intelligence. This is not a traditional interview. It’s a real-time reflection. From his early life with limited resources to becoming a global music icon, tech innovator, and respected voice among the world’s leading AI thinkers, will.i.am shares how purpose is shaped by observation, intention, and the people you choose to build with. Often spoken of alongside top CEOs in artificial intelligence, will.i.am offers a distinctly human perspective on AI transformation. He challenges the fear surrounding AI, stating clearly that technology itself is not the enemy. The real risk, he explains, lies in greed, poor intent, and unethical business models. Throughout the conversation, will.i.am reflects on why creativity must remain a human force that AI amplifies not replaces and why optimism is essential if artificial intelligence is to become a tool for empowerment, education, and social upliftment. This episode explores: • What defines true AI thought leadership today • Why intention matters more than intelligence in AI systems • Creativity, culture, and technology working together • Ethics, morality, and responsibility in building AI • Community impact and next-generation leadership • AI as a force for education and opportunity Blending AI, humanity, music, ethics, and future-thinking, this conversation offers rare insight into how visionary leaders think about power, progress, and responsibility in a rapidly evolving world. 🎧 Listen till the end. This isn’t hype. It’s a grounded, human vision for the future of AI leadership.