Explore every episode of the podcast Slop World
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Save Hours on HR Work with AI: Kari Naimon Explains How | 03 Dec 2024 | 00:29:01 | |
Want to see real use cases of AI remaking HR workflows? HR expert and founder of AIxHR, Kari Naimon, explains how small businesses and HR teams can save time, streamline repetitive tasks, and boost productivity with generative AI. Learn how to craft effective prompts, create quick wins, and collaborate with IT to integrate AI into your processes. With actionable steps you can implement today, this episode shows how AI can improve workflows and help your team focus on what matters most. 🤖 Additional Яesources: - Kari Naimon's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kari-naimon/ - AIxHR: http://aixhr.ai 🤖 Connect with Juan Faisal: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akajuanfaisal/ - Newsletter: https://juanfaisal.substack.com/ - Website: https://juanfaisal.com/ 🤖 About Our Guest: Kari Naimon: Kari Naimon, founder of AixHR, brings 20+ years of HR expertise from Amazon, Toyota, and Qualcomm to the forefront of AI innovation. Her mission at AixHR is to demystify AI, creating transformative “AI-Aha” moments that empower professionals to fearlessly embrace the technology and elevate their work. Contact Kari at kari@aixhr.ai. 🤖 Creativity & Robots: “A love letter to human creativity, with AI as the stage prop.” Host Juan Faisal interviews creative professionals to discuss how generative AI influences our creative process, work, and media consumption. Join us to learn how AI can enhance your creativity, and dive into the ethics and realities of the tech. For experts and beginners alike. ___ 🤖 Timestamps: 00:00 - Kari Naimon: AI and HR Expert 01:04 - Why Kari Quit Corporate to Lead AI Innovation 01:58 - The Costliest AI Mistake Leaders Make (How to Avoid It) 03:53 - How to Get IT Teams Onboard with Your AI Strategy 06:58 - Training Teams in AI: ROI-Driven Strategies That Work 09:45 - Keep AI Transparent: The Case for Human Oversight 12:36 - Early AI Wins: Build Trust in the Process 17:36 - Kari’s Favorite AI Tools and Time-Saving Tips 20:57 - Stop Leaks: How to Protect Sensitive Data While Using AI at Work 23:17 - Freelancers’ Guide to Starting with AI Today 25:55 - AI Slowdown: Hidden Opportunities for Your Business 27:18 - Where to Learn More From Kari Naimon | |||
| AI Workflows That Help Small Teams OUTSMART Big Players | Andrew White | 07 Nov 2024 | 00:39:57 | |
David vs. Goliath, AI edition! In this episode, Juan Faisal and Andrew White discuss how small teams and solopreneurs can leverage AI to enhance creativity, improve their workflows, and compete against larger companies. Plus... is AI really democratizing content, or is it all PR bulls#!t? 🤖 Additional Яesources: Scade: https://www.scade.pro/ (Try for free for 1 month using code ROBOTS) Scade community - https://community.scade.pro/ Andrew White's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-white-ai/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@andrew_ai_marketing 🤖 Connect with Juan Faisal: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akajuanfaisal/ - Newsletter: https://juanfaisal.substack.com/ - Website: https://juanfaisal.com/ 🤖 About our Guest: Andrew White is a seasoned marketing professional specializing in startups. With a demonstrated history of working with Startup Founders and CEOs, he offers expertise in marketing strategy development, execution, and customer acquisition. Andrew's proficiency spans competitor research, pitch deck creation, SEO, and product development. He becomes an integral part of the team, setting up high-level strategies and developing ground-level processes to achieve business growth. 🤖 Creativity & Robots: “A love letter to human creativity, with AI as the stage prop.” Host Juan Faisal interviews creative professionals to discuss how generative AI influences our creative process, work, and media consumption. Join us to learn how AI can enhance your creativity and dive into the ethics and realities of the tech. For experts and beginners alike. ___ 🤖 Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro: What You’ll Learn Today 00:30 - Workflows Explained: Connecting AIs for Smoother Creative Processes 04:05 - Tools to Boost Your Creative Reach and Workflow Efficiency 09:05 - How Small Teams Compete with Industry Leaders Using AI 13:26 - Helping Reluctant Creatives Feel Comfortable with AI 18:36 - Easy Steps to Start Integrating AI into Your Work 20:45 - Unique Ways Creatives Are Applying AI Automation 27:58 - Tips for Getting the Most Out of No-Code AI Platforms 31:10 - Building a Supportive Creative Community with AI 35:01 - How to Get Started with Scade.pro Yourself | |||
| AI Tools Every Filmmaker Should Use: Tim Simmons (Theoretically Media) | 01 Aug 2024 | 00:38:26 | |
EP15 — AI Tools Every Filmmaker Should Use Guest: Tim Simmons (Theoretically Media) In today's episode, we have Tim Simmons, an experienced media producer and the founder of Theoretically Media, a channel that, dives into filmmaking, music, writing, and art, all enhanced by the latest AI tools. With over 100K subscribers, he believes in technology's power to elevate independent artists' work. In this interview, Tim emphasizes the advantages of AI tools in giving independent artists a competitive edge and the ability to create high-quality content at a fraction of the cost. He also addresses the challenges and misconceptions surrounding generative AI, highlighting the importance of hard work and the need for continuous learning and experimentation. Timestamps: Introduction: Tim Simons and Theoretically Media [00:00] Transition from music tutorials to AI tools [00:55] The power of generative AI for independent artists [02:19] Challenges and opportunities in the creative industry with AI [03:15] Creating high-quality work affordably with AI [05:34] Budgeting and pricing in AI content creation [06:56] Estimating time and workflow for AI projects [09:08] The excitement of AI's early stages [10:31] Exploring different generative AI workflows [11:24] Evolution and repetition in creative industries with AI [14:13] Legalities of generative AI and intellectual property [16:11] Overcoming FOMO in the AI landscape [19:30] Tim's approach to sharing AI knowledge [20:49] Recommended generative AI tools for beginners [23:21] Staying updated on AI tools and trends [27:43] Misconceptions about easy AI content creation [30:04] Future plans and ongoing learning with AI [34:07] Conclusion: Importance of sharing AI knowledge [37:38] Additional Resources: About Creativity & Robots: “A love letter to human creativity, with AI as the stage prop.” Creativity & Robots is a podcast about human creativity in the age of AI. Creative Strategist and host Juan Faisal interviews creative professionals in various fields to explore the relationship between human creativity and generative AI and how it influences our creative process, the work we do, and the media we consume. Whether you're a seasoned expert or just starting out, join us to learn how generative AI can boost your creativity. We'll also discuss ethical implications and question the tech buzz when it doesn't add up. Subscribe to Creativity & Robots here! Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTube If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, subscribe, and let us know what topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes. | |||
| The Rise of Slop Content: How AI is Ruining YouTube | Tim Jablonski | 23 Jul 2024 | 00:39:02 | |
EP. 14 — Can YouTube Survive AI? A Top Strategist Speaks OutGuest: Tim Jablonski In this episode of Creativity & Robots, we are joined by Tim Jablonski, Senior Vice President of Programming and Audience Development at Little Monster Media. Tim talks about the ways AI is reshaping YouTube and offers practical advice on incorporating AI tools into your content creation. We also discuss the ethical aspects of AI usage and share key strategies for expanding your channel's reach. Find out which kinds of channels are excelling in the AI age and how you can use AI to enhance your content. Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction and Background05:49 - The Future of YouTube and AI12:44 - The Challenges of Generative AI in Content Creation20:03 - Ethical Considerations and Viewer Safety27:40 - The Importance of a Clear Core Value Proposition33:08 - Final thoughts About Creativity & Robots: “A love letter to human creativity, with AI as the stage prop.” Creativity & Robots is a podcast about human creativity in the age of AI. Creative Strategist and host Juan Faisal interviews creative professionals in various fields to explore the relationship between human creativity and generative AI and how it influences our creative process, the work we do, and the media we consume. Whether you're a seasoned expert or just starting out, join us to learn how generative AI can boost your creativity. We'll also discuss ethical implications and question the tech buzz when it doesn't add up. Subscribe to Creativity & Robots here! Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTube If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, subscribe, and let us know what topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes. | |||
| Is AI the Future of Video Creation? | Pakko De La Torre-Rocha | 18 Jul 2024 | 00:34:55 | |
In this episode, Pakko De La Torre-Rocha discusses how AI can streamline video creation, improve social media campaigns, and optimize advertising strategies. He shares his workflow and tips for using AI tools effectively. Pakko emphasizes the importance of embracing new technologies to stay ahead in the industry and highlights the power of AI in enhancing creativity. He also discusses the future of AI in video creation and the potential it holds for filmmakers and creators. 🤖 Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and Pakko's achievements 00:56 - First encounter with generative AI 03:06 - Impact of AI on independent creatives and large agencies 06:01 - AI use cases: chatbots, marketing, data analysis 08:44 - Pakko's workflow for making AI-generated videos 14:22 - Showcase: Viva México! (An AI animation by Pakko) 15:40 - Viva México! Animation process explained 19:08 - Tips for getting started with AI tools and platforms 21:49 - What to learn if you are starting with AI tools in 2024 27:01 - What's next for AI and creativity 30:21 - Pakko's career and why AI made him young again 32:45 - Closing remarks and how to connect with Pakko About our guest, Pakko De La Torre-Rocha: Pakko is a multifaceted creative director with over 15 years of experience, known for his innovative work with top advertising agencies like Ogilvy & Mather and TBWA\Chiat\Day. Specializing in AI, AR/VR, and social media, Pakko combines hands-on leadership with cutting-edge technology to create award-winning campaigns for clients like Cisco, Taco Bell, and Nissan. His expertise in Web3 and Metaverse, coupled with a deep passion for emerging technologies, ensures that his creative solutions are not only engaging but also transformative. Additional Resources: About Creativity & Robots: “A love letter to human creativity, with AI as the stage prop.” Creativity & Robots is a podcast about human creativity in the age of AI. Creative Strategist and host Juan Faisal interviews creative professionals in various fields to explore the relationship between human creativity and generative AI and how it influences our creative process, the work we do, and the media we consume. Whether you're a seasoned expert or just starting out, join us to learn how generative AI can boost your creativity. We'll also discuss ethical implications and question the tech buzz when it doesn't add up. Subscribe to Creativity & Robots here! Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTube If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, subscribe, and let us know what topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes. | |||
| Breaking AI's Bias: From Awareness to Action | Catharine Montgomery | 09 Jul 2024 | 00:23:55 | |
EP. 13 — Breaking AI's Bias: From Awareness to Action Guest: Catharine Montgomery, MBA In this episode of Creativity & Robots, we dive into the world of AI-driven social good with Catharine Montgomery, founder and CEO of Better Together. Catharine shares her insights on using generative AI to combat biases and promote inclusion, offering actionable strategies that can drive positive change in the tech industry. 🤖 Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro: AI for Social Good and Better Together's Mission 01:47 - Bias: Thinking You're Helping but Doing Harm 03:12 - Handling Pushback and Passive Disagreement 06:54 - AI Ampliying Bias: The Need for Diverse Data 11:00 - Experiencing Bias in AI and Importance of Representation 12:56 - Mitigating Bias: Challenges for Companies 14:11 - Financial Benefits of Diversity vs. Investment Resistance 20:54 - Better Together's Role in Addressing AI Bias About our guest, Catharine Montgomery, MBA: Catharine Montgomery is the founder and CEO of Better Together, a communications agency focused on positive change through creative strategies and branding. With over 15 years in public relations, she specializes in education, environment, and social justice. Catharine has led campaigns that changed perceptions and behaviors. She holds degrees in Public Relations and Marketing from Auburn University, an MBA from the University of Maryland, and completed the Vital Voices Visionaries Program with Estée Lauder. Additional Resources:
About Creativity & Robots: “A love letter to human creativity, with AI as the stage prop.” Creativity & Robots is a podcast about human creativity in the age of AI. Creative Strategist and host Juan Faisal interviews creative professionals in various fields to explore the relationship between human creativity and generative AI and how it influences our creative process, the work we do, and the media we consume. Whether you're a seasoned expert or just starting out, join us to learn how generative AI can boost your creativity. We'll also discuss ethical implications and question the tech buzz when it doesn't add up. Subscribe to Creativity & Robots here! Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTube If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, subscribe, and let us know what topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes. | |||
| Using AI and Storytelling to Stop Procrastination | Alexander Liss | 19 Jun 2024 | 00:27:38 | |
EP. 11 — "Using AI and Storytelling to Stop Procrastination | Alexander Liss" Guest: Alexander Liss In this episode of Creativity & Robots, we explore how generative AI can drive climate action with our special guest, Alexander Liss, CEO of Scenes From Tomorrow. Alexander shares his expertise in AI, data science, and storytelling to discuss how his app leverages AI to make the impact of climate change tangible and actionable for users. Learn how storytelling and AI can transform abstract climate data into personalized, local narratives that motivate real-world change. 🤖 Timestamps:
About our guest, Alexander Liss: Alexander Liss is a visionary strategist skilled in strategy and technology. He led Party City’s AI chatbot project, increasing site conversion by 7X, and boosted Doctors Without Borders’ email conversion by +19%. He achieved a +23% brand lift for Pfizer and helped Volkswagen reach a +68% digital conversion. At ConEdison, he saved $6MM and increased data retention by +83%. He also enhanced Honeymaid’s social media engagement by +45%. Alexander's expertise in AI, data science, and storytelling drives innovation and growth. Additional Resources:
About Creativity & Robots: “A love letter to human creativity, with AI as the stage prop.” Creativity & Robots is a podcast about human creativity in the age of AI. Creative Strategist and host Juan Faisal interviews creative professionals in various fields to explore the relationship between human creativity and generative AI and how it influences our creative process, the work we do, and the media we consume. Whether you're a seasoned expert or just starting out, join us to learn how generative AI can boost your creativity. We'll also discuss ethical implications and question the tech buzz when it doesn't add up. Subscribe to Creativity & Robots here! Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTube If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, subscribe, and let us know what topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes. | |||
| Cracking the Code to Connecting in the Age of AI | Baxter Aceves | 11 Jun 2024 | 00:37:16 | |
EP. 10 — "Cracking the Code to Connecting in the Age of AI | Baxter Aceves" Guest: Javier "Baxter" Aceves In this episode of Creativity & Robots, host Juan Faisal sits down with Javier "Baxter" Aceves, a content and marketing expert with experience at BuzzFeed, Netflix, and Scribd. Baxter shares insights on how these media giants connected with their audiences during their early days. The discussion highlights the challenges of cutting through AI-generated content noise and building genuine human connections. Baxter also offers his perspective on the future of content creation and audience engagement in an AI-driven world. 🤖 Timestamps:
About Our Guest, Javier "Baxter" Aceves: Javier Aceves, also known as Baxter, has held prominent roles such as Editor-in-Chief at BuzzFeed, Manager of Brand and Editorial Marketing at Netflix, and Director of Content Acquisition at Scribd. With a rich background in content and marketing, Baxter has been instrumental in shaping the strategies that drive audience engagement and content innovation. He has a proven track record in audience development, editorial and creative direction, and thought leadership for companies across publishing, social media, and traditional media outlets. Additionally, Baxter is a TEDx Speaker, author of the novel "Un pequeño incendio" (2018, Penguin Random House), and a musician with the band Los Árboles Mentirosos. Additional Resources:
About Creativity & Robots: “A love letter to human creativity, with AI as the stage prop.” Creativity & Robots is a podcast about human creativity in the age of AI. Creative Strategist and host Juan Faisal interviews creative professionals in various fields to explore the relationship between human creativity and generative AI and how it influences our creative process, the work we do, and the media we consume. Whether you're a seasoned expert or just starting out, join us to learn how generative AI can boost your creativity. We'll also discuss ethical implications and question the tech buzz when it doesn't add up. Subscribe to Creativity & Robots here! Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTube If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, subscribe, and let us know what topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes. | |||
| AI's Impact on Learning and Business: Dan Królczyk Explains | 04 Jun 2024 | 00:33:16 | |
EP. 9 —"AI's Impact on Learning and Business: Dan Królczyk Explains" Guest: Dan Królczyk In this episode, Dan Królczyk shares his expert strategies for selling AI-powered services in 2024. Learn how to network effectively at conventions, handle rejection, and stay ahead of digital changes. Dan also discusses his favorite generative AI tools and future trends in media and education. Whether you're a startup CEO, CMO, or creative professional, this episode offers valuable insights to help you leverage AI for success. Show notes: https://creativitynrobots.substack.com/p/show-notes-ep-9-how-to-sell-ai-powered 🤖 Timestamps:
About our guest, Dan Królczyk: Dan Królczyk heads ELB Learning's spatial VR projects, using his media and marketing skills to drive revenue deals and AI innovations. As a former regional VP for USA Today and iHeart Media, he set national audience and revenue records in film, media, and motorsports. Dan also launched tech startups and provided video solutions for companies like Verizon and Dell. Find Dan Królczyk on LinkedIn. Additional resources: About Creativity & Robots: “A love letter to human creativity, with AI as the stage prop.” Creativity & Robots is a podcast about human creativity in the age of AI. Creative Strategist and host Juan Faisal interviews creative professionals in various fields to explore the relationship between human creativity and generative AI and how it influences our creative process, the work we do, and the media we consume. Whether you're a seasoned expert or just starting out, join us to learn how generative AI can boost your creativity. We'll also discuss ethical implications and question the tech buzz when it doesn't add up. Subscribe to Creativity & Robots here! Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTube If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, subscribe, and let us know what topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes. | |||
| AI Storytelling for Films: Jagger Waters on What Works | 28 May 2024 | 00:33:06 | |
What happens when AI meets real storytelling? Juan Faisal talks with award-winning filmmaker Jagger Waters about the tools, limits, and surprises of making movies with generative AI. From competing in AI filmmaking tournaments to creating her standout short film “Love at First Byte,” Jagger shares what actually works—and what doesn’t—when humans stay in charge of the story. 🤖 Why it matters AI tools are changing the pace of film production—but story, taste, and trust still decide what sticks. This episode shows how creators are adapting without giving up creative control. 🤖 You’ll learn - How AI filmmaking competitions actually work - What went into making “Love at First Byte” - Where AI hallucinations create challenges in genre storytelling - Why “gamifying Hollywood” could change how we watch - Advice for creatives entering the AI space 🤖 Guest: Jagger Waters AI filmmaker, storyteller, and producer - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaggerwaters/ - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/glamorousreptile/ - Substack: https://jaggerwaters.substack.com/ 🤖 Host: Juan Faisal - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akajuanfaisal/ - Newsletter: https://juanfaisal.substack.com/ - Website: https://juanfaisal.com/ 🤖 Timestamps 00:00 Meet Jagger Waters, AI filmmaker 04:25 Love at First Byte: An award-winning AI film 11:54 Evolving as a storyteller and turning to AI 14:28 The unexpected challenge of making horror with AI 16:41 Gamifying Hollywood content with AI 20:36 The role of AI in future filmmaking 25:45 Advice for aspiring AI creators 28:00 Final thoughts on AI and human creativity | |||
| AugX Labs CEO: "The AI Bubble is Not What People Think" Jeremy Toeman | 21 May 2024 | 00:50:39 | |
In this episode, Jeremy Toeman, CEO of AugX Labs, discusses the current state of the AI industry with Juan and addresses the question of whether the AI bubble is real. He also shares the story behind AugX Labs, highlighting how their tool, Augie, enhances video creation with real-time editing capabilities. Jeremy also talks about the challenges and opportunities that arise when creative and tech teams collaborate, discusses the true costs of AI, and examines the risks associated with content pollution. Find out what the future holds for AI and content creation from an industry expert. 🤖 What We'll Cover in This Episode: - Getting Creative and Tech Teams on the Same Page - Building AugX Labs and Augie - Adding Value vs. Shiny New Toys: Differentiating Features - Transparency: Aligning User Expectations with AI Capabilities - The Real Monetary Cost of AI: Is It Getting More Expensive? - Is AI a Bubble? Learn more about AugX Lab and Augie: https://augxlabs.com/ Connect with Juan Faisal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akajuanfaisal/ Follow Creativity & Robots: Spotify / Apple Podcasts / Amazon Music If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, subscribe, and let us know what topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes. | |||
| Why Does All Content for 55+ Year-Olds Suck? w/ Craig Parks | 14 May 2024 | 00:45:38 | |
This week, we're joined by Craig Parks, a creative leader with extensive experience in developing revenue-driving content who's worked with media giants such as Comcast, IFC, MTV, VH1, ABC Family, and YouTubers like Logan Paul. Craig knows how to grab and keep an audience’s attention. Get ready for his tips on making your content stand out, even when it feels like everything's been done, and his thoughts on how generative AI is changing content. If you want to connect with people through amazing stories and videos, don't miss Craig's insights. Connect with Craig Parks: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigcparks/ Connect with Juan Faisal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akajuanfaisal/ Follow Creativity & Robots: Spotify / Apple Podcasts / iHeartRadio If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, subscribe, and let us know what topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes. | |||
| Has AI Broken Journalism? The Role of AI in Newsrooms | Pete Pachal | 01 Oct 2024 | 00:37:29 | |
"AI has played a role in journalism for quite a while." In this episode, Pete Pachal comes to chat about the transformative impact of AI on journalism and how journalists can use artificial intelligence, addressing both the challenges and opportunities it presents. We cover the importance of managing expectations around AI's capabilities, the historical context of machine-generated content in newsrooms, and the need for ethical practices in AI implementation. We also discuss the million-dollar question: will AI replace actual human journalists? 🤖 Additional Яesources: - Newsletter: https://mediacopilot.substack.com/ - One-hour class: https://learn.mediacopilot.ai/p/beginning-ai-for-marketers-pr-and-journalists - Consulting: https://mediacopilot.ai/ - Media Copilot podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-media-copilot - Pete Pachal @ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterpachal/ 🤖 Connect with Juan Faisal: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akajuanfaisal/ - Newsletter: https://juanfaisal.substack.com/ - Website: https://juanfaisal.com/ 🤖 About our Guest: Pete Pachal is the Founder and CEO of The Media Copilot, a newsletter and podcast about how generative AI is changing the media. He also teaches creative professionals in journalism and PR about how to use AI tools, and he consults with companies of all sizes on how to incorporate generative AI into real work. Pete has a long career in journalism, previously holding senior roles in global newsrooms such as CoinDesk and Mashable. As a thought leader in tech, crypto, and AI, he often appears on TV news, including Fox Business, CNN, and The Today Show. He also puts his encyclopedic knowledge of Doctor Who to good use in his side hustle, the popular podcast Pull To Open. 🤖 Creativity & Robots: “A love letter to human creativity, with AI as the stage prop.” Host Juan Faisal interviews creative professionals to discuss how generative AI influences our creative process, work, and media consumption. Join us to learn how AI can enhance your creativity, and dive into the ethics and realities of the tech. For experts and beginners alike. ___ 🤖 Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro: Pete Pachal 00:44 - Can AI Fix Fake News and Deepfakes in Journalism? 02:45 - AI Beyond ChatGPT: Transforming Newsroom Workflows 08:44 - CoinDesk’s AI Journey: How to Successfully Integrate AI in Media 14:28 - AI in the Workplace: How Will It Affect Your Career? 18:58 - Why AI Can’t Replace Your Creative Judgment and Expertise 25:47 - Pro Tips: How to Use AI Tools to Elevate Your Career 30:33 - Custom AI Solutions: How Media Copilot Empowers Creative Pros 34:27 - Journalism Careers: Is AI a Job Killer or Career Maker? | |||
| How We Consume Media: The Evolution (2000-2024) w/ Scot Pansing (ex-Disney and YouTube) | 18 Apr 2024 | 00:55:45 | |
In this episode of Creativity & Robots, we explore the historical and ongoing impact of technology on media industries with Scot Pansing, Principal at The Human Side of Technology. Scot has been at the forefront of media technology with industry giants like Capitol Records, Disney, YouTube, and Google. He shares firsthand insights from the past two decades of digital disruption. 🤖 What We'll Cover in This Episode: → The evolution of media and creativity through technology → Generative AI's role in media → Navigating ethical waters → The impact of AI on platforms' ability to moderate content at scale → Is there a place for human creativity in the age of AI? Connect with Scot Pansing: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scotpansing/ Connect with Juan Faisal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akajuanfaisal/ Follow Creativity & Robots: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, subscribe, and let us know what topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes. | |||
| AI Expectations vs. Reality: A No BS Talk w/ Kate Cook (AI Strategy & Marketing Consultant) | 01 Apr 2024 | 00:53:42 | |
Introducing generative AI into an organization entails a skillful dance between the business, marketing, and legal needs, along with the need to set client expectations that go beyond the hype... Is that even possible? To find out, we are joined by Kate Cook, an AI Strategy and Marketing Consultant at Era Seven Partners. She works with marketing teams, companies, and agencies to develop AI strategies with a people-first mindset. 🤖 What We'll Cover in This Episode: → Which current barriers exist for implementing AI in organizations? → The four buckets of AI capabilities → The end of the Internet as we know it → Balancing AI-driven efficiency and the irreplaceable value of human creativity in content creation and marketing strategies → The growing disappointment about AI technology Connect with Kate Cook: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katecook/ Connect with Juan Faisal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akajuanfaisal/ Follow Creativity & Robots: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, subscribe, and let us know what topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes. | |||
| The Future of Marketing in the AI Age w/ Natalia Iragorri (Marketer and Strategist) | 12 Mar 2024 | 00:37:40 | |
Are you interested in how technology is reshaping the way we tell brand stories? Join me for a conversation with Natalia Iragorri, a marketer, brand strategist, and professor at Boston University, as she shares insights on crafting compelling brand stories in the digital age of AI. Discover the role of storytelling in marketing, the challenges of educating clients, and why diversity in teams is crucial for success. Don't miss Natalia's take on the future of marketing and the impact of AI on content creation. Connect with Natalia Iragorri: https://www.linkedin.com/in/niragorri Connect with Juan Faisal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akajuanfaisal/ Follow Creativity & Robots: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, subscribe, and let us know what topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes. | |||
| Future of Work: Creative Networking Tips w/ Nathalie Harewood (Creative Project Manager) | 23 Feb 2024 | 00:43:21 | |
Ever wondered how to stay afloat during layoff season or the secret behind building powerful creative networks? Join us as Nathalie Harewood, a master of adaptability and networking, shares her insights on surviving the unpredictable job market and fostering meaningful connections in the creative industry. Discover the art of self-mentoring and why being a jack-of-all-trades is more crucial than ever. Don't miss Nathalie's tips on standing out and the potential of creative collectives for a stable future. Tune in to unlock the strategies for thriving in today's ever-evolving creative landscape. Connect with Nathalie Harewood: LinkedIn Follow Creativity & Robots: If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe, and let us know what topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes. | |||
| How AI is Transforming Customer Education (2024) w/ Jim Conley (ex-Twitter and YouTube) | 30 Jan 2024 | 00:32:36 | |
Ever wondered how creativity and technology come together to shape the future of education? Join us for a chat with Jim Conley, who is known for his groundbreaking work in the tech education industry through his work empowering creators, agencies, and partners at YouTube and Twitter. Jim's journey is nothing short of inspiring, as he has pioneered custom GPTs and created unforgettable learning experiences. In this conversation, we will explore the intersection of AI, education, and ethics, making for an enlightening and enjoyable experience. Check out Jim Conley's CustomerEd Strategist & Growth Advisor by clicking here. Connect with Juan Faisal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akajuanfaisal/ Follow Creativity & Robots: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, subscribe, and let us know what topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes. | |||
| The Rise of AI Filmmaking in Europe | Producer Matt Szymanowski | 24 Sep 2024 | 00:35:40 | |
How is AI transforming the craft of filmmaking in Europe? Just back in Wroclaw after his California tour, filmmaker Matt Szymanowski talks about how AI is disrupting the film industry and why Europe has some catching up to do. Drawing from his upcoming documentary, A Human Future, Matt explores what's working in AI-powered storytelling, what's falling short, and how creatives can stay ahead in 2024 and 2025. He also shares his efforts to build a community of AI-driven creatives in Poland and across Europe. 🤖 Additional Яesources: - Artintell AI DIGITAL CREATORS FORUM #1: https://lu.ma/p52udad5 - European California Club: https://eurocaliclub.byjwg.com/ - Pluto Studios: https://plutostudios.ai/ - John Weston Group: https://john-weston.com/ 🤖 Connect with Juan Faisal: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akajuanfaisal/ - Newsletter: https://juanfaisal.substack.com/ - Website: https://juanfaisal.com/ 🤖 Creativity & Robots: “A love letter to human creativity, with AI as the stage prop.” Host Juan Faisal interviews creative professionals to discuss how generative AI influences our creative process, work, and media consumption. Join us to learn how AI can enhance your creativity, and dive into the ethics and realities of the tech. For experts and beginners alike. ___ 🤖 Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro: Matt Szymanowski 00:34 - Insights from California's Creative AI Scene 04:34 - Building Creative Bridges: the European California Club 09:37 - AI in Europe: Are Regulatory Limits Holding Back Innovation? 14:48 - “A Human Future”: Reflections on the Documentary Experience 26:27 - AI Hybrid Cinema: Redefining Storytelling for Tomorrow 30:25 - Easy Ways for Creatives to Navigate the AI Landscape 33:01 - Where Can We Keep Up With Matt’s Work | |||
| AI vs Human Creators: Who Owns the Copyright? w/ Lawyer Brooke Smarsh | 17 Sep 2024 | 00:38:48 | |
Are you confused about what copyright law protects now that AI is out in the wild? Intellectual Property Attorney Brooke Smarsh explains the truth about AI-generated content: what’s covered, what isn’t, whether AI-generated content can be copyrighted, and what’s fair game when training models—plus, why taking the time to understand this topic today could save you from expensive headaches tomorrow. ⚠️ Disclaimer: This episode offers insights on AI and copyright but should not be interpreted as legal advice. 🤖 Additional Яesources: - Brooke Smarsh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brooke-smarsh/ - Lexology: https://www.lexology.com/ - US Copyright Office: https://www.copyright.gov/ 🤖 Connect with Juan Faisal: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akajuanfaisal/ - Newsletter: https://juanfaisal.substack.com/ - Website: https://juanfaisal.com/ 🤖 Creativity & Robots: “A love letter to human creativity, with AI as the stage prop.” Host Juan Faisal interviews creative professionals to discuss how generative AI influences our creative process, work, and media consumption. Join us to learn how AI can enhance your creativity, and dive into the ethics and realities of the tech. For experts and beginners alike. ___ 🤖 Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro: Brooke Smarsh 00:42 - What Can You Copyright? A Quick Guide for Creatives 02:56 - How Your AI Tools Could Affect Your Copyright Rights 05:56 - AI Content: What’s Protected and What’s Not 10:44 - Is AI Training Fair Use or a Copyright Violation? 16:18 - The AI Dilemma: Innovate Freely or Follow the Rules? 18:35 - Is AI Hurting Small Creators and Helping Big Tech? 28:09 - New AI Legislation: Key Points for Creatives 31:04 - Why IP Lawyers Are Concerned About AI 33:48 - Easy Ways for Creatives to Learn More About IP Law 37:31 - How to Connect with Brooke Smarsh | |||
| What Oprah got right (and wrong) about AI | Experts react | 13 Sep 2024 | 01:03:07 | |
AI Experts React to Oprah Winfrey's "AI and the Future of Us" Special Most people saw Oprah’s AI special. But what *didn’t* it cover? Juan Faisal talks with AI filmmaker Jagger Waters, strategist Kate Cook, and edtech PM Kyle-Prescott Ogunbase about the trust gap in AI, what "Generation AI" actually faces, and why public understanding—not just faster tools—matters most. 🤖 Why it matters: AI is scaling faster than most people can make sense of it. This episode unpacks the real risks, power moves, and human questions getting buried in the hype. 🤖 You’ll learn: - Why safety, scams, and trust need center stage in AI debates - How Gen AI is already growing up inside a synthetic media world - Why ethical development needs stronger incentives—not just open letters - What AI can and can’t fix when it comes to loneliness, labor, and learning 🤖 Guests: Kate Cook – Founder, Era Seven Partners Certified AI strategist helping brands adapt to rapid tech change Kyle-Prescott Ogunbase – Product Manager, Newsela Building AI tools to improve literacy in classrooms Jagger Waters – Award-winning AI filmmaker Producer at Curious Refuge and escape.ai 🤖 Host: Juan Faisal - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akajuanfaisal/ - Newsletter: https://juanfaisal.substack.com/ - Website: https://juanfaisal.com/ 🤖 Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 01:43 Oprah’s special: What it got right and wrong 06:35 Sam Altman: Most dangerous man in tech? 12:23 Trust, ethics, and who builds the future 18:05 Marques Brownlee: AI for video and voice 20:20 Deepfakes and what’s fueling them 25:20 Why AI literacy may be the most urgent skill 29:10 Aza Raskin & Tristan Harris: AI vs. society 32:21 Christopher Wray: AI and criminal threats 36:00 Why companies still hesitate to adopt AI 40:07 Can schools undo biased training data? 43:05 Parenting in the age of Generation AI 45:35 Is AI a threat—or a lifeline—for workers? 52:19 Marilynne Robinson: The human cost of progress 56:40 Difficulty is the point 59:50 Final thoughts on what comes next | |||
| AI Won't Steal Your Creative Job (Myths Debunked) | Luke Wilcoxson | 10 Sep 2024 | 00:28:25 | |
AI's impact is misunderstood—both overhyped and underappreciated, says Luke Wilcoxson, co-founder and creative director of Only the Bold. In this episode, he shares how you can use AI to boost your creative career without losing your value and the secret to staying ahead in an industry that (for better or worse) never stops evolving. 🤖 Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro to Luke Wilcoxson (Only the Bold Agency) 00:43 - AI's Overhyped and Underappreciated Aspects 04:20 - "Worst AI Ever" – Fact or Fiction? 08:15 - AI's Impact on Creative Problem Solving 12:03 - The AI Divide in CDMX's Motion Design Circles 14:08 - Is AI Devaluating Our Creativity? 19:39 - Fighting Creative Laziness: Tips to Stay Sharp 22:54 - AI Skills That Will Define Creative Work in 2025 26:32 - What's Next: Learning More About Luke's Work 🤖 Connect with Juan Faisal: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akajuanfaisal/ - Newsletter: https://juanfaisal.substack.com/ - Website: https://juanfaisal.com/ 🤖 Additional resources: 🤖 About Creativity & Robots: "A love letter to human creativity, with AI as the stage prop.” Host Juan Faisal interviews creative professionals to discuss how generative AI influences our creative process, work, and media consumption. Join us to learn how AI can enhance your creativit, and dive into the ethics and realities of the tech. For experts and beginners alike. 🤖 Subscribe to Creativity & Robots here! - Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4fhfcMlT4fLIAN34D7hFZx - Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creativity-robots/id1728312833 - Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/19de380e-8583-463a-b43c-d7f4f496471c | |||
| AI's Cultural Crisis: How We Fix This Mess | Creative Director Tamon George | 02 Sep 2024 | 00:33:21 | |
EP18 — AI's Cultural Crisis: A Marketer's Bold Solution - Tamon George Tamon George, ex-pro footballer turned creative director and co-founder of Creative Theory Agency (Ad Age's Small Agency of the Year), is tackling AI's diversity problem in advertising. Learn how his team, behind campaigns for Google, Nike, and Amazon, is using generative AI beyond mere automation. In this conversation, Tamon reveals why diverse voices are crucial in AI development, showing how varied life experiences shape AI prompts and results. He addresses the big question: how do we make AI reflect the real world, not just tech insiders' views? 🤖 Timestamps: 00:00 - Tamon George's Journey 02:24 - Incorporating Generative AI into Work 05:35 - Cultural Consciousness in AI Prompts 09:36 - The What Prompted You? Campaign 14:29 - Barriers to Accessing AI Tools 21:06 - The Second Wind of the AI Bubble 25:46 - Exploring the Potential of AI in Video Creation 🤖 Additional resources: - https://www.whatpromptedyou.com/ - https://www.creativetheory.agency/ - https://www.instagram.com/creativetheoryagency/ 🤖 Connect with Juan Faisal: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akajuanfaisal/ - Newsletter: https://juanfaisal.substack.com/ - Website: https://juanfaisal.com/ 🤖 Creativity & Robots: “A love letter to human creativity, with AI as the stage prop.” Host Juan Faisal interviews creative professionals to discuss how generative AI influences our creative process, work, and media consumption. Join us to learn how AI can enhance your creativity, and dive into the ethics and realities of the tech. For experts and beginners alike. 🤖 Subscribe to Creativity & Robots here! - Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4fhfcMlT4fLIAN34D7hFZx - Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creativity-robots/id1728312833 - Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/19de380e-8583-463a-b43c-d7f4f496471c | |||
| Using AI to Tell Stories Hollywood Can't | Filmmaker Reza Sixo Safai | 13 Aug 2024 | 00:39:31 | |
Can generative AI help filmmakers tell stories that would otherwise be impossible to tell? Iranian-American director Reza Sixo Safai (Persian: رضا سیکسو صفایی) shares his groundbreaking journey into AI filmmaking, from his first Midjourney experiments to creating an OpenAI-powered Tribeca short. Reza reveals how AI can be used to bypass censorship in Iran and craft resonant, dreamlike narratives that mirror his own experiences. Diving deep into AI's impact on storytelling, Reza explores ethical prompting, amplifying diverse voices, and the parallels between his immigrant roots and adaptability as an artist. He also shares insights into mastering AI tools while emphasizing the importance of traditional filmmaking skill 🤖 Timestamps: 00:00 - How Reza Integrates Generative AI into Filmmaking 01:31 - Civil War, Silicon Valley, and Cinema: Reza's Immigrant Journey 02:32 - Discovering Generative AI and the Pika AI Community 10:31 - Using AI to Bypass Censorship in Iran 14:01 - Ethical Prompting: Working with OpenAI's Sora Team 19:56 - Reza Meets Sora: A Filmmaker's First Look 29:03 - Beyond Prompts: Generative AI's Full Scope 31:02 - Film First, AI Second: Building a Solid Foundation 36:37 - What's Next: Reza's AI Projects and New Ventures 🎬 Loved this deep dive into AI filmmaking? Do your creative friends a favor and share this episode with them! Your mind = 🤯 Their minds = 🤯 🤖 Additional resources:
🤖 Connect with Juan Faisal: 🤖 Creativity & Robots: “A love letter to human creativity, with AI as the stage prop.” Host Juan Faisal interviews creative professionals to discuss how generative AI influences our creative process, work, and media consumption. Join us to learn how AI can enhance your creativity, and dive into the ethics and realities of the tech. For experts and beginners alike. 🤖 Subscribe to Creativity & Robots here! | |||
| AI and Creative Jobs: Should We Switch Careers Now? w/ Georg Zoeller (ex-Meta) | 05 Aug 2024 | 01:07:41 | |
EP16 — AI and Creative Jobs: Should We Switch Careers Now? w/ Georg Zoeller (ex-Meta) Georg Zoeller is a big deal in AI. He co-founded the AI Literacy Transformation Institute and was the former Business Engineering Director at Meta. He's also worked on major gaming titles like Assassin's Creed 4 and Star Wars: The Old Republic. At Meta, he became a top expert on AI's impact on creative industries. In this episode we'll discuss how AI technology is impacting the creative industry. You'll learn about the fundamentals of AI and how it's applied in real-world creative scenarios, how AI is transforming creative jobs and what that means for your career, and get a clear, pragmatic perspective on AI that cuts through both the hype and the fearmongering. 🤖 Timestamps: Georg Zoeller: AI expert with gaming roots [00:00] AI reality check: We're getting it wrong [00:44] Cutting through AI noise: Facts vs. hype [04:26] Why plain talk matters in the AI world [08:11] AGI: The undefined hype machine [13:01] AI: The next big shift for everyone? [13:56] Business rush to AI: Fear of falling behind [18:30] Meta's free AI: Understanding the strategy [22:00] AI's economic impact: More output, job concerns [24:44] Creatives and AI: The risks of ignoring it [31:50] Handmade in the machine age: Craftsmanship's comeback [36:11] Your job vs. AI: Data literacy as armor [39:37] Creatives' new skill: Digital know-how [48:51] Attention economy: The platform squeeze [51:55] Georg's clear-cut guide to AI basics [59:50] 🤖 Learn More About Georg: - AI Literacy Transformation Institute 🤖 Connect with Juan Faisal: - Juan Faisal: Work About Creativity & Robots: “A love letter to human creativity, with AI as the stage prop.” Creativity & Robots is a podcast about human creativity in the age of AI. Creative Strategist and host Juan Faisal interviews creative professionals in various fields to explore the relationship between human creativity and generative AI and how it influences our creative process, the work we do, and the media we consume. Whether you're a seasoned expert or just starting out, join us to learn how generative AI can boost your creativity. We'll also discuss ethical implications and question the tech buzz when it doesn't add up. Subscribe to Creativity & Robots here! Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTube If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, subscribe, and let us know what topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes. | |||
| How AI Tools Are Sabotaging Your Productivity at Work | 14 Nov 2025 | 00:22:44 | |
AI assistant tools were supposed to help, but they often end up getting in the way of getting any work done. Microsoft says the average worker gets hit 275 times a day, and many of those dings now come from the same AI tools that promised to keep us focused. Juan and Kate talk about how AI for business has turned into a distraction machine, how Copilot and similar tools push prompts no one asked for, and whether engagement metrics are driving this productivity mess. They also get into what AI can actually help with at work, why most people stay stuck using these tools for basic tasks, and what a better workflow could look like if agents stepped in and filtered the distractions instead of adding to them. ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Microsoft interruption study Research on attention at work TOPICS 00:00 When Interruptions Take Over Your Workday 00:08 Why AI Tools Keep Pulling Your Attention Away 00:35 Copilot And The Problem With “Helpful” Prompts 01:32 Why SaaS Tools Bake In Interruptions 03:20 Every App Trying To Teach You At Once 05:54 Your Attention As The Real Resource 06:52 Engagement Metrics vs. Productivity 07:50 The All-In-One AI Tools Ecosystem Theory 09:13 Why SaaS Tools Won’t Give Up Notifications 12:47 What People Really Do With AI at Work 13:57 Using AI Personas To Stress-Test Your Ideas 14:48 AI For Data Storytelling 16:31 One Easy Step To Level Up With AI 18:42 The Real Gap In AI Productivity At Work 19:48 Real-Time Interruption: Meet Ramón 20:22 How AI Could Handle Most Executive Decisions 22:17 One More Thing... ABOUT SLOP WORLD Juan Faisal and Kate Cook plunge into the slop pile—AI news, cultural shifts, and the future’s endless curveballs. They’re not here to sanitize the mess; they’re here to wrestle with it, laugh at it, and find meaning where you least expect it. | |||
| OpenAI and the Future of AI: Something’s Not Adding Up | 06 Nov 2025 | 00:24:10 | |
OpenAI’s gone full YOLO: agents that work for you, a Sora app that feels like TikTok, an AI browser that wants to replace Chrome, and a new “adult freedom” stance. Juan and Kate dig into the logic, or lack of it, behind OpenAI’s everything-everywhere strategy, and why even its biggest users are starting to push back. Additional Resources The AI Resisters (Axios) https://www.axios.com/2025/10/19/ai-resistance-students-coders Workforce Outlook: The Class of 2026 in the AI Economy https://joinhandshake.com/themes/handshake/dist/assets/downloads/network-trends/class-of-2026-outlook.pdf Zuckerberg signals Meta won’t open source all of its ‘superintelligence’ AI models https://techcrunch.com/2025/07/30/zuckerberg-says-meta-likely-wont-open-source-all-of-its-superintelligence-ai-models/ Topics 00:00 – Intro 00:07 – OpenAI’s new playbook: agents, Sora, and Stargate 00:39 – AI agents everywhere: from dev tools to browsers 02:52 – Building AGI or burning cash? What’s OpenAI’s real plan? 06:00 – The difference between open source and closed AI models 06:22 – Meta vs OpenAI: Competing to own AI’s Future 09:35 – The rise of AI resistance: workers, coders, students push back 11:24 – Using AI tools you don’t trust 13:51 – The vibe-coding trap 14:40 – Human-made content becoming the new luxury 18:30 – Where’s your line in the sand with AI? Ethics and trust 19:48 – Smarter ways to use AI 21:49 – Puppies & babies, our weekly fix of Slop About Slop World Juan Faisal and Kate Cook plunge into the slop pile—AI news, cultural shifts, and the future’s endless curveballs. They’re not here to sanitize the mess; they’re here to wrestle with it, laugh at it, and find meaning where you least expect it. | |||
| Making AI make sense — for everyone (with Jacques Potts) | 25 Apr 2025 | 00:19:49 | |
Jacques Potts teaches AI like it’s a survival skill — because for a lot of kids, it is. In this episode, Juan Faisal talks with Jacques about what access really means, how to make AI land in under-resourced classrooms, and why cultural fluency matters more than certifications. From local games to data ethics, this is about building confidence, not just competence. 🤖 Why it matters The next generation is already surrounded by AI. If we don’t make it make sense — in their language, on their terms — we’re not building access. We’re building another gate. 🤖 You’ll learn - How to make AI feel relevant with “boots on the ground” teaching - What “vibe coding” looks like in real classrooms - How to explain data ethics in a way kids actually care about - Why parents need to stop outsourcing AI fluency 🤖 Guest: Jacques Potts AI educator, technologist, and founder - Linktree: https://linktr.ee/jackybang1212 - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacquespotts/ 🤖 Host: Juan Faisal - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akajuanfaisal/ - Newsletter: https://juanfaisal.substack.com/ - Website: https://juanfaisal.com/ 🤖 Timestamps 00:00 Jacques’s path from the East Side to AI education 05:12 Teaching AI in ways that actually connect 10:33 Vibe coding, local culture, and creative tech 15:49 Ethics, privacy, and teaching critical AI thinking 21:18 What parents and companies can do right now | |||
| AI for people who actually make things (with Rachel Leventhal) | 08 Apr 2025 | 00:22:57 | |
What if the industry doors don’t open for you? You build your own. Juan Faisal talks with Rachel Leventhal — creator, technologist, and co-founder of Backlot AI — about the mindset it takes to work ahead of the curve. From early CD-ROM experiments at Nickelodeon to AI-powered filmmaking, they get into tool adoption, creative control, and why artists shouldn’t wait for permission. 🤖 Why it matters AI tools are everywhere. But tech alone doesn’t drive change. Real progress comes when artists see creative possibility — and build systems that support it. 🤖 You’ll learn - How AI is helping small teams build ambitious creative projects - Why “meaningful art” still guides Rachel’s tech choices - What it takes to build inclusive, collaborative creative tools - Why women shouldn’t wait to be invited into AI work 🤖 Guest: Rachel Leventhal Creator, technologist, and co-founder of Backlot AI - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-leventhal-bkltai/ - https://www.youtube.com/@backlot-ai 🤖 Host: Juan Faisal - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juanfaisal - Newsletter: https://juanfaisal.substack.com - Website: https://www.creativityandrobots.com 🤖 Timestamps 00:00 Rachel’s path from CD-ROMs to AI filmmaking 06:52 When creative tools are actually worth using 13:58 Collaboration, confidence, and building outside the system 19:02 What’s still missing: better tools for creative teams Additional Credits: - Dheeraj M4JOR from Pixabay (sfx) - Universfield from Pixabay (sfx) - 'Subscribe' animation by Vecteezy | |||
| Machine Cinema on AI, power, and creative labor (Fred Grinstein & Minh Do) | 01 Apr 2025 | 00:41:48 | |
AI is already shaping how films get made — it just doesn’t show up in the credits. Fred Grinstein and Minh Do aren’t selling tools. They’re building workflows. Juan Faisal talks with the co-founders of Machine Cinema about what changes when you move from AI experiments to actual production — and what’s at stake for the creatives behind the work. 🤖 Why it matters The workflows are evolving faster than the rules. As studios experiment with AI, core questions about attribution, authorship, and labor are being skipped. That puts creatives in a vulnerable spot: doing more with less credit, less clarity, and less control. 🤖 You’ll learn - What AI can actually do in a real production pipeline - How artists are getting cut out of the credits - Why “creative access” doesn’t mean creative control - What it takes to make work without selling out your role 🤖 Guests: Fred Grinstein and Minh Do Co-Founders, Machine Cinema - Website: https://machinecinema.ai - Fred: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fred-grinstein - Minh: https://minhdo.com 🤖 Host: Juan Faisal - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akajuanfaisal - Newsletter: https://juanfaisal.substack.com - Website: https://juanfaisal.com 🤖 Timestamps 00:00 Intro 00:41 What is Machine Cinema really doing 01:28 How Hollywood uses AI and hides it 05:12 What to do when you don’t have studio backing 10:51 When AI makes your process worse 12:49 IP, ethics, and who gets left out 18:41 Building an AI film with no blueprint 22:42 What producing means when the tools keep changing 27:26 Where new voices might actually come from 32:46 How to connect with Machine Cinema | |||
| Is AI changing learning for the worse? (with Kyle-Prescott Ogunbase) | 25 Mar 2025 | 00:38:05 | |
Most kids aren't scared of AI. But they are learning from it — fast. This episode isn’t about fear. It’s about access, context, and what gets lost when critical thinking takes a back seat. Juan Faisal talks with Kyle-Prescott Ogunbase, AI educator and product strategist, about the real gap in AI education. From coding Pac-Man in grade school to building Agbara Life, Kyle shares what “knowledge deserts” reveal about the next digital divide — and why curiosity still matters more than prompt templates. 🤖 Why it matters The kids are building. But the system is stalling. When access is unequal and context is missing, education becomes performance, not progress. 🤖 You’ll learn - Why teaching AI means teaching context, not just tools - What “knowledge deserts” reveal about the next digital divide - How to foster real learning in an AI-powered classroom - What parents and educators can do right now 🤖 Guest: Kyle-Prescott Ogunbase AI educator and product strategist - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ogunbase/ - Agbara Life: https://www.linkedin.com/company/agbaralife/ 🤖 Host: Juan Faisal - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akajuanfaisal/ - Newsletter: https://juanfaisal.substack.com/ - Website: https://juanfaisal.com/ 🤖 Timestamps 00:00 Meet Kyle-Prescott Ogunbase 01:11 From users to creators: what AI can do in a classroom 07:50 Is AI killing critical thinking 16:02 Who will control the AI economy 20:18 What happens when communities get left behind 27:02 Why AI won’t fix inequality but might shift the odds 32:25 Teaching kids AI without selling out their minds 35:40 Work with Kyle: collaborate on AI education and inclusion | |||
| Why AI can’t fix lazy marketing (with Catherine Toms) | 18 Mar 2025 | 00:31:47 | |
Most marketers feel one of two things about AI: excited or exhausted. This episode skips the hype and focuses on the work. Juan Faisal talks with Catherine Toms, AI marketing consultant and educator, about what AI actually changes in marketing — and what it doesn’t. From overhyped tools to quiet shifts, they unpack what smart teams are doing differently, why strategy still matters, and how to stay sharp without burning out. 🤖 Why it matters AI isn’t magic. It’s leverage. Used well, it amplifies what already works. Used poorly, it just adds noise. 🤖 You’ll learn - How to test AI tools without getting overwhelmed - Why “bias” starts at the prompt level - What leaders actually want from AI-literate teams - Which skills still separate good marketers from great ones 🤖 Guest: Catherine Toms AI marketing consultant, educator, and speaker - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherinetoms/ - Website: https://aiinmarketing.co/level-1-ai-in-marketing/ 🤖 Additional resources - Dove’s AI prompt guide: https://www.dove.com/au/stories/campaigns/keep-beauty-real.html - NotebookLM: https://notebooklm.google.com/ 🤖 Host: Juan Faisal - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akajuanfaisal/ - Newsletter: https://juanfaisal.substack.com/ - Website: https://juanfaisal.com/ 🤖 Timestamps 00:00 Who is Catherine Toms 02:17 The evolution of AI in marketing 06:02 How smart marketers use AI 11:14 Choosing the right AI tools 14:17 Are marketers afraid of AI 19:52 Geographical differences in AI adoption 21:49 AI bias is real. Can we fix it? 28:42 Connect with Catherine Toms | |||
| Corporate Slop: How AI Broke the Office | 30 Oct 2025 | 00:23:46 | |
AI-generated work slop is spreading, and it’s turning offices into zombie zones. In this Halloween Special, Juan and Kate dig into how automation at work and AI productivity tools are creating “zombie workers,” why Sam Altman is flirting with the D3ad Internet Theory, and how corporate AI culture is quietly eroding creativity. Watch the full episode for a very special Halloween-themed curated slop. Topics: 00:00 – Halloween Special: AI, zombies, and slop 00:42 – The rise of zombie workers and workplace automation 02:39 – The emotional cost of AI-generated work slop 03:42 – Why companies fail at AI learning and workforce training 07:00 – The “cat’s out of the bag” moment for corporate AI 07:38 – Can smarter workforce learning fix AI fatigue? 09:24 – Less is more: human value in AI workplaces 11:09 – The D3ad Internet Theory: AI’s ghost in the machine 13:37 – Engagement farming and the end of real content 15:08 – Is Sam Altman breaking the internet on purpose? 18:10 – How AI filters shape online reality 20:28 – The hidden cost of easy AI answers 21:30 – AI Slop of the Week: Halloween Edition About Slop World Juan Faisal and Kate Cook plunge into the slop pile—AI news, cultural shifts, and the future’s endless curveballs. They’re not here to sanitize the mess; they’re here to wrestle with it, laugh at it, and find meaning where you least expect it. #OpenAI #AIethics #aiproductivity | |||
| The AI Security Crisis: Vibe Coding, Deep Fakes, Scams, and More | 23 Oct 2025 | 00:23:25 | |
October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and Juan and Kate talk about one of the most controversial aspects in the AI arms race: SECURITY. From the rise of “vibe coding” (AI that writes your code for you), to AI-powered scams, they unpack how the "move fast and break things" approach is opening -once again?- the door to major exploits, both in computers and humans. About Slop World Juan and Kate plunge into the slop pile—AI news, cultural shifts, and the future’s endless curveballs. They’re not here to sanitize the mess; they’re here to wrestle with it, laugh at it, and find meaning where you least expect it. Subscribe to @slopworldpodcast on YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. Timestamps: 00:00 – It's Cybersecurity Awareness Month! 01:43 – The 3 Biggest AI Security Gaps 02:39 – What Is AI Vibe Coding? 05:05 – Is Vibe Coding a Security Nightmare? 07:03 – What If AI Went Down Tomorrow? 09:51 – AI-Powered Scams and Social Engineering 14:20 – Who's the Sloppiest? Meta AI vs. Sora 2 16:20 – The Rise of AI Slop Social Platforms 20:27 – Are We Training Ourselves to Accept Fake Content? | |||
| The Strange Reality of Human vs AI Relationships | 16 Oct 2025 | 00:29:32 | |
If an AI can fake love, does it still count as a real connection? From Sora 2 to AI companions and synthetic actors, Juan and Kate talk about what happens when the people we build relationships with aren’t real. The conversation centers on Tilly Norwood, an AI-generated actress created by a media company, and how her existence prompts a broader discussion about creativity, ownership, and the impact of algorithms on cultural standards. The question that follows is simple... but loaded: who profits when the “talent” isn’t human, and what it means when real people start forming emotional bonds with AI companions and chatbots that never say no. It’s part ethics, part psychology, and all very 2025. RESOURCES FOR PARENTS MAMA – Mothers Against Media Addiction: https://wearemama.org/ Sign up for the MAMA newsletter: https://wearemama.org/connect/ Join a local chapter: https://wearemama.org/find-your-chapter/ Center for Humane Technology: https://www.humanetech.com/ Common Sense Discussion Guide for Kids: https://www.commonsense.org/system/files/pdf/2025-05/activity-guide-for-parents-talking-to-your-kids-about-ai-5.pdf TOPICS 00:00 – Sora 2 (First Impressions) 01:00 – Tilly Norwood: AI Actress Pioneer or Scam? 02:33 – The Traditional Talent Agency Business Model vs. AI 05:33 – Sourcing Data and Beauty Standards 08:31 – AI Actors vs. AI Influencers 13:23 – Romantic Relationships with AI Avatars 14:49 – The Risks of Sycophantic AI 23:18 – Actionable Items for Parents ABOUT SLOP WORLD Juan Faisal and Kate Cook plunge into the slop pile—AI news, cultural shifts, and the future’s endless curveballs. They’re not here to sanitize the mess; they’re here to wrestle with it, laugh at it, and find meaning where you least expect it. | |||
| Karen Hao’s Empire of AI: The OpenAI Story You Missed | 07 Oct 2025 | 00:28:49 | |
This week, Juan and Kate discuss Karen Hao’s "Empire of AI," which reveals how Silicon Valley’s utopian ideals evolved into a global power grab, before jumping into AI's most solid use case to date: Italian Brainrot. And we don't want to spoil the end, but it might or might not include discussing Viktor Orbáns social media playbook. Join us in the slop. We’re all heading there anyway, so come as you are and bring some friends (maybe an old enemy or two?). About Slop World Juan and Kate plunge into the slop pile—AI news, cultural shifts, and the future’s endless curveballs. They’re not here to sanitize the mess; they’re here to wrestle with it, laugh at it, and find meaning where you least expect it. Juan Faisal: - https://www.linkedin.com/in/akajuanfaisal/ - https://juanfaisal.com/ Kate Cook: - https://www.erasevenpartners.com/ - https://www.linkedin.com/in/katecook/ Timestamps: 00:00 – Is This a Manosphere Podcast? 01:18 – Karen Hao’s Empire of AI 03:56 – OpenAI Goes Corporate 07:42 – The AI Bubble and Trickle-Down Tech 11:48 – Humans vs Stochastic Parrots 15:20 – Italian Brainrot Appears 18:58 – Irony, Chaos, and Cultural Decay 23:46 – The End of Meaning | |||
| What is AI Slop and Why It's Everywhere | 30 Sep 2025 | 00:20:44 | |
From office bots to hacked prompts to AI podcasts no one asked for, Juan and Kate wrestle with a future that feels equal parts genius and garbage. Welcome to the age of slop—where everything’s automated, but nothing’s intentional. About Slop World Juan and Kate plunge into the slop pile—AI news, cultural shifts, and the future’s endless curveballs. They’re not here to sanitize the mess; they’re here to wrestle with it, laugh at it, and find meaning where you least expect it Juan Faisal: - https://www.linkedin.com/in/akajuanfaisal/ - https://juanfaisal.com/ Kate Cook: - https://www.erasevenpartners.com/ - https://www.linkedin.com/in/katecook/ Timestamps: 00:00 – Slop World: AI, Culture, and Chaos 00:44 – AI Co-Workers: Are You Training Your Replacement? 03:15 - Why AI Still Can't Read the Room 04:35 – Prompt Injection: The Hack That Breaks AI 06:35 – Are You Unpaid Labor for AI Training? 08:33 – AI Podcasts: Content Without a Point of View 10:44 - Slop Media: A New Art Form? 14:30 - The Weirdest AI Podcasts We Found 17:04 – AI Slop vs Haters | |||
| This Podcast is OVER! (But it's Not What You Think) | 26 Sep 2025 | 00:01:06 | |
Been away for a minute. Here's why... | |||
| Why AI skills alone won’t get you hired (with Rita Sargsyan) | 20 May 2025 | 00:26:26 | |
Most AI upskilling advice skips the one thing that actually opens doors: community. Juan Faisal talks with Rita Sargsyan, IDEAS Program Director and VC Startups Ambassador at AI LA, about what real access looks like for people outside the usual pipeline (especially creatives, students, and anyone without a traditional tech background). 🤖 Why it matters AI tools are accessible. Real access isn’t. Without networks, mentorship, and real-world feedback, most people stall or stay overwhelmed. 🤖 You’ll learn - How the IDEAS program trains community college students in AI - Why self-doubt holds back non-technical creatives - What to do when you feel “late” to AI - Why confidence comes faster through action than online certs 🤖 Guest: Rita Sargsyan IDEAS Program Director and VC Startups Ambassador, AI LA - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritasargsyan - IDEAS Program: https://www.joinai.la/ideas - AI LA Events: https://lu.ma/aila-events - AI on the Lot 2025: https://www.aionthelot.com/ 🤖 Host: Juan Faisal - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akajuanfaisal/ - Newsletter: https://juanfaisal.substack.com/ - Website: https://juanfaisal.com/ 🤖 Timestamps 00:00 Rita Sargsyan’s background in AI and access 01:31 Why AI needs diverse, non-technical talent 03:24 Getting started with ChatGPT and AI tools 05:55 Overcoming fear and shyness around tech 09:46 Inside the IDEAS program for college students 13:20 How networking builds confidence 16:14 Creatives and the tension with AI 18:56 Learning to use AI as a creative superpower 20:01 Prompt engineering and emerging roles 21:54 What to expect at AI on the Lot 2025 24:33 Where to find Rita and how to get involved | |||
| Why women still struggle to work in AI (with Verena Weber) | 01 May 2025 | 00:20:16 | |
Most AI tools are trained on what’s considered “normal.” Everyone else is an afterthought (if they’re included at all). Juan Faisal talks with Verena Weber, AI consultant and founder of Women in Tech, about how bias shows up in tools, teams, and leadership. From invisible labor to the myth of confidence, they unpack what keeps women and non-technical professionals out of the loop — and how to change it without waiting for permission. 🤖 Why it matters Only 22 percent of global AI talent is female. That’s not just underrepresentation. It’s a design flaw. 🤖 You’ll learn - How male-first defaults shape tools and workplaces - What confidence actually looks like in tech - Why creatives don’t need to code to lead AI work - How to track change beyond DEI performance 🤖 Guest: Verena Weber AI consultant, former Amazon data scientist, founder of Women in Tech - Website: https://www.verenaweber.de/ - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/verena-weber-134178b9/ - Women in Tech Newsletter: https://verenas-newsletter-63558b.beehiiv.com/ - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viaviawe/ - UNESCO: https://www.interface-eu.org/publications/ai-gender-gap - Interface Report: https://interface-eu.org/publications/ai-gender-gap - McKinsey: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/diversity-and-inclusion/diversity-wins-how-inclusion-matters 🤖 Host: Juan Faisal - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akajuanfaisal/ - Newsletter: https://juanfaisal.substack.com/ - Website: https://juanfaisal.com/ 🤖 Timestamps 00:00 Verena Weber's background 01:09 Why tech and AI workplaces exclude women 02:34 The cost of gender-blind tech 04:19 The confidence code for women in AI 06:59 Embodiment work to build confidence 09:32 AI enablement for non-technical roles 11:17 Why AI outputs still need human oversight 12:20 Protecting sensitive data in AI tools 14:03 DEI as a driver of innovation 15:27 Flexibility, coaching, and inclusive workstyles 18:36 Where to follow Verena | |||