In this episode of CEA Talk, we sit down with Simon Verghote, a philosopher and bioethicist at Université Libre de Bruxelles, whose research explores the ethical and ontological implications of xenobots living organisms designed by artificial intelligence and constructed from real biological tissue.
Verghote’s work offers a rare window into how synthetic biology and evolutionary algorithms are not only transforming medicine and biotechnology, but also challenging the very foundations of what we define as “life.” From laboratory practices that embed ethical reflection at every stage, to speculative conversations about post-human futures and the spiritual dimensions of creation, this dialogue moves beyond science fiction into urgent philosophical territory.
We ask: Where does life begin and design end? What kind of ethical frameworks are needed when working with entities that are both programmable and alive? And what does it mean for science, for society, and for humanity when we create life from scratch?
This episode is a journey across disciplines, from experimental biolabs to ancient systems of interpretation, from bioethics to the future of intelligence. If you’re interested in the edge of life, technology, and meaning, this conversation is for you.
Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

In this episode of CEA Talk, host Szilárd Szelpál is joined by Eglė Markevičiūtė and Yaël Ossowski from the Consumer Choice Center to discuss the evolving trade tensions between the US and the EU and what they mean for consumer rights, innovation, and transatlantic cooperation. Drawing on insights from CCC’s latest policy paper, the conversation explores regulatory challenges, opportunities for alignment, and the path forward for liberal democracies in a changing global landscape.

Daniel Kaddik talks about the alternatives of fossil fuels for the next couple of decades. He mentions many challenges mainly focusing on Germany, where producing car is more than just sheer production, but also many other sectors are connected to it. Kaddik mentions the future of hydrogen and other alternative fuels, and talks enthusiastically how free market capitalism will solve transform petrol stations to being more service driven rather than only focusing on selling fuel. He also says that present-day cars will still be around until 2040, so there is ample time to see how the alternatives could be used and to what efficiency.

In our podcast, Zoltán Levente Ember, CEO of Hungarian research Compass Institute delves into the pressing challenges facing Hungary’s energy sector. From the rapid expansion of solar power capacity to the political and financial risks foreign investors must navigate, the discussion uncovers the complexities of the country's energy landscape. Listeners will learn about Hungary’s efforts to become a leader in electromobility and battery manufacturing, while struggling with outdated grid infrastructure and rising energy demands. The conversation touches on the role of government incentives, such as the “utility reduction” policy, and the unpredictable nature of policy changes driven by Hungary's ongoing state of emergency. With the European Union's funds out of reach, the country’s future energy development hangs in the balance. Topics like the impact of the Robin Hood tax and MAVIR’s moratorium on solar connections add depth to the narrative. Zoltán highlights the difficulty for foreign investors to thrive under these conditions and points out the significant gap in wind power investment. Additionally, environmental and taxation concerns surrounding solar panels, along with legal challenges, create further uncertainty. As the podcast unfolds, the listener gains insight into both the opportunities and obstacles in Hungary’s renewable energy journey. The episode closes with a reflection on the urgent need for clearer energy policies and improved collaboration between stakeholders.