
Understanding Quantum’s Wild West - Hype, Hope, and Humility in a Rapidly Evolving Field
From Impact Quantum: A Podcast for the Quantum Curious by Data Driven Media
April 16, 2026 · 55 min · Season 4 · Episode 16
About this episode
Sam Kearney discusses his journey in quantum technology and the importance of diverse backgrounds in the field.
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…
People in this episode
Guest: Sam Kearney
Topics covered
- quantum technology
- quantum error correction
- AI and quantum computing
- careers in quantum tech
- software for quantum computers
Keywords
- quantum technology
- quantum error correction
- AI
- software
- quantum computing
- careers
- networking
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Haiku, Haiqu.ai, YouTube
More episodes of Impact Quantum: A Podcast for the Quantum Curious
- Why We’re Still at the Start of the Quantum Marathon · June 9, 2026 · 38 min
- Grid Optimization in Minutes - The Promise of Quantum at Hydro Quebec · June 2, 2026 · 57 min
- Thomas Baker on Quantum Error Correction and the Skills Students Need for Tomorrow · May 27, 2026 · 54 min
- Why Photonic Quantum Computing Could Change Everything · May 7, 2026 · 55 min
- Why Quantum Computing Is Closer Than You Think · April 30, 2026 · 50 min
- The Role of Quantum Computing in the Future of Drug Discovery · April 8, 2026 · 37 min
Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Impact Quantum: A Podcast for the Quantum Curious podcast page.