This episode of Techsplainers explores retrieval augmented generation (RAG), a powerful technique that enhances generative AI by connecting models to external knowledge bases. We examine how RAG addresses critical limitations of large language models—their finite training data and knowledge cutoffs—by allowing them to access up-to-date, domain-specific information in real-time. The podcast breaks down RAG's five-stage process: from receiving a user query to retrieving relevant information, integrating it into an augmented prompt, and generating an informed response. We dissect RAG's four core components—knowledge base, retriever, integration layer, and generator—explaining how they work together to create a more robust AI system. Special attention is given to embedding and chunking processes that transform unstructured data into searchable vector representations. The episode highlights RAG's numerous benefits, including cost efficiency compared to fine-tuning, reduced hallucinations, enhanced user trust through citations, expanded model capabilities, improved developer control, and stronger data security. Finally, we showcase diverse real-world applications across industries, from specialized chatbots and research tools to personalized recommendation engines.

Find more information at https://www.ibm.com/think/podcasts/techsplainers

Narrated by Amanda Downie