Ep 38 - Generative AI and the Future of Work for Thinkydoers

Are you wrestling with ethical questions about AI while also feeling curious about its potential?

In this thought-provoking episode, Sara welcomes Dvorah Graeser, an "old internet" technologist who brings a unique perspective on AI democratization. From programming for the Human Genome Project to founding RocketSmart, Dvorah shares insights on how we can approach AI with both skepticism and agency.

Discover why those who shy away from AI might be surrendering power to tech giants, and learn practical considerations for responsibly engaging with generative AI tools in your work.

Episode Highlights:

• Dvorah's background programming before the GUI and her journey from the Human Genome Project to AI development
• The ethical considerations of generative AI and how to navigate them as business owners and creators
• How to evaluate AI models based on their transparency, data policies, and public commitments
• The democratization of technology and why bottom-up AI adoption benefits everyone
• Why small businesses might leapfrog large corporations with open-source AI models like DeepSeek
• How generative AI affects workplace satisfaction differently across roles and experience levels
• Practical advice for protecting your intellectual property in an AI-driven world

Key Concepts Explored:

AI Ethics & Transparency

• Role of AI in data analytics and predictive modeling
• AI as an enabler vs. driver of outcomes
• Practical applications in OKR workshops
• Limitations and considerations

Generative AI for Work

• The role of AI in automating tasks vs. augmenting human work
• AI as an enabler vs. a driver of outcomes
• Practical applications of AI in different industries

Small Business vs. Big Tech

• Can AI level the playing field for solopreneurs and startups?
• How large corporations control AI access and development
• Opportunities for smaller businesses to leverage AI effectively

AI for Strategy & Execution

• Integrating AI into decision-making without losing human creativity
• Using AI for data analytics and predictive modeling
• Limitations and considerations for AI in strategic planning

Episode Chapters:

[00:00:00] Introduction: Welcome to Thinkydoers and introduction to Dvorah Graeser

[00:03:00] Dvorah's background: From programming before GUI to AI development

[00:05:00] Ethics of generative AI: The challenge of retrofitting ethics

[00:08:00] Choosing trustworthy AI models: Evaluating data policies and transparency

[00:10:00] Democratizing technology: The historical context and importance

[00:14:00] Advice for Thinkydoer leaders: Focus on process integration

[00:17:00] IP concerns for creators and business owners: Strategies and policies

[00:20:00] AI and the future of work: Research on workplace satisfaction

[00:25:00] The potential of open-source models like DeepSeek for small businesses

[00:29:00] Individual action: How to participate in shaping ethical AI

Notable Quotes"If a company is using AI in a way you don’t like, let them know—preferably on social media, so others can join the conversation." – Dvorah Graeser (00:31:00) "Generative AI is more about curation than creation. It gives you 100 ideas, but you still need the expertise to pick the right one." – Dvorah Graeser (00:22:00) "Most small businesses don’t need the latest AI model. They need AI that works with their data and processes." – Dvorah Graeser (00:26:00) "AI isn’t just a tool for big corporations. Small businesses that use AI strategically can be more agile and...