Former Merrill Lynch stockbroker turned author, speaker and host, Mark Jeffries moderates a dizzying number of conferences a year, more than half in the technology arena. As a result, he as acquired enough information to formulate some strong views on the growth of technology and how it can help, rather than harm, us.

Industry experts opine that just as machines replaced physical labor, they are now starting to replace cognitive labor. While some may want to protect the past from the future, Jeffries tends to embrace change.

Where to draw the line with AI

“Artificial intelligence is exciting, but we as humans have to find a way to perhaps limit it in case the whole ‘War Games’ thing happens,” he joked. “I love the exponential growth of technology and what it can do for us. But we should draw the line where a job is affected and where we hold back our own development as humans.”

For conference organizers, Jeffries advises them to give the audience something they can use, and keep the audience engaged. “After 15 minutes [of a speech] people will fall into a waking sleep,” he said.

Jeffries’ travel tips

Jeffries recommended frequent travelers to take a picture of their hotel room (because he tends to forget his room number). He also raves about TSA Pre for expedited screening (you can keep your shoes on). Also, stay communicative. “You never know who you are going to meet.”

Watch the full interview below, and be sure to check out more of SiliconANGLE and theCUBE’s coverage of IBM Vision 2015.