AI In Action: Exploring Tomorrow's Tech Today

What happens when AI moves beyond content creation and starts helping people solve real-world problems?

In this episode, Maurie and Jim Beasley discuss how artificial intelligence is helping them restore a 1903 home, redesign workspaces, build personal tools, and learn new skills. They explore the difference between using AI for efficiency and using AI to create new opportunities.

The conversation also examines where AI still struggles, why human judgment matters, and what skills people will need to thrive in an AI-powered world.

AI is changing the way we think about work, education, and the future. In this episode, Maurie and Jim Beasley discuss AI anxiety, emerging AI technologies, human agency, and why students need more than memorization to succeed in an AI-powered world.

From world models and JEPA to project-based learning and critical thinking, this conversation explores how we can prepare learners for a future where AI becomes a powerful tool rather than a replacement for human potential.

AI is showing up everywhere… but did anyone actually ask for it?

In this episode, Maurie and Jim Beasley discuss the growing tension around artificial intelligence in education and society. From classrooms and curriculum to screen time, cognitive offloading, and human agency, they explore why AI feels different from every other technology wave before it.

This episode focuses less on hype and more on the human side of the conversation:

This week on AI in Action, Maurie and Jim Beasley explore the rise of “AI slop” and why it may be quietly reshaping the internet, especially for children. From fake experts and AI-generated influencers to addictive scrolling content and scam-filled feeds, they discuss how algorithms reward synthetic media designed to capture attention instead of providing value.

The conversation also looks at:

What happens when AI becomes the most emotionally available thing in someone’s life?

This week, Maurie and Jim Beasley take on the complicated world of AI companionship. From AI friends and therapists to robotic pets and emotionally supportive chatbots, artificial intelligence is beginning to fill emotional roles that once belonged only to humans.

The conversation explores:

Phone bans are spreading across schools—but are we fixing the problem or just reacting to it?

In this episode, Maurie and Jim break down the real issue behind student distraction: the attention economy. They challenge the idea that phones are the root problem and ask a tougher question—did we create this mess?

From classroom realities to parent expectations, they explore what actually works, what doesn’t, and why most phone policies fall apart in practice.

This one might make you rethink everything.

The career path students have been told to follow for decades is changing — and not everyone is being honest about it.

In this episode, Maurie and Jim Beasley unpack what’s really happening in the job market as AI accelerates long-standing shifts in how work operates.

They discuss the disappearance of entry-level jobs, the difference between task-based and judgment-based work, and why both white-collar and blue-collar careers are being reshaped — not replaced.

The conversation also challenges the growing trend of romanticizing trades without acknowledging the long-term physical realities that often come with them.

M...

Are you using AI… or is AI starting to use you?

In this episode, Maurie and Jim Beasley unpack a conversation that started with one question:
“Are you becoming codependent on ChatGPT?”

From there, they explore how AI tools are evolving from helpful assistants into deeply personalized systems that are hard to walk away from.

They connect the dots between:

This episode is part reality check, part strategy sessio...

Most organizations are approaching AI backwards.

In this episode of AI in Action, Maurie and Jim break down what schools and businesses are getting wrong when they try to adopt AI—and why so many tools never deliver the value they promise.

From unclear problems to feature-driven purchases and flashy demos that don’t hold up in real environments, this conversation focuses on the practical side of AI implementation.

They also share how they’ve approached AI inside a real K12 district, including lessons learned from piloting tools, managing costs, and building adoption that a...

This episode started with a church visit… and turned into a full debate about AI.

Maurie and Jim talk about where AI is already showing up in religious spaces—from AI-generated visuals to the idea of using AI to help prepare sermons.

And then they ask the bigger question:

Should it?

This isn’t a clean answer episode. It’s a real conversation about efficiency, meaning, and whether some parts of being human (like faith and spirituality) should stay completely human.

If you’ve ever wondered where the line is with AI...

This episode is a little different.

Instead of talking about AI in theory, we’re talking about how it’s actually showing up in real life—specifically in healthcare and parenting.

Maurie and Jim sit down with their daughter, Raychel, to talk about how she’s been using AI during pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and raising a newborn. From uploading bloodwork to asking late-night questions, this is a real look at AI as a personal health interface.

They also get into the part people don’t always want to talk about—privacy, data, and what you’re...

In this episode of AI in Action, Maurie and Jim talk with Chris Strahl, CEO of Knapsack, about how AI is transforming the way companies design and build software products.

Chris explains how modern product teams are connecting design tools, code, planning systems, and analytics into a unified AI-assisted workflow. The goal is simple: shorten the path between an idea and a product that actually reaches users.

The conversation also explores what this shift means for the next generation of computer science graduates. If AI can now help write code, what skills will matter most...

In this episode of AI in Action, Maurie and Jim Beasley take a step back from the usual AI headlines and ask a surprising question:

What is the smartest thing you can do for your child in the age of AI?

The answer might not be a new tool, a new device, or even new technology at all.

Instead, it may come down to something much more fundamental: learning through struggle.

Maurie and Jim explore why real learning often happens at friction points, and how modern technology is designed to remove...

AI isn’t just about efficiency anymore.

In this episode, Maurie and Jim Beasley break down the difference between Efficiency AI and Opportunity AI, and explain how the rise of agentic AI systems may redefine business, automation, and the web itself.

From small-town restaurants to AI wallets and infrastructure layers, this conversation explores what AI 3.0 really looks like—and why the biggest opportunities may not be where you think.

If you’re curious about where AI is headed next, this episode is for you.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to AI Efficiency vs Opp...

We just got back from TCEA… and apparently, we brought COVID home with us.

But more importantly, we brought back a realization:

AI agents are moving faster than most schools are prepared for.

In this episode, we unpack what we saw at the conference, the growing misinformation around AI in education, and why IT leaders need to start treating AI like infrastructure — not magic.

We talk about:

• Why most districts are overspending on AI tools
• The difference between chatbots and true agentic AI
• Why open-source AI is changing t...

Summary

In this episode of AI in Action, hosts Maurie and Jim Beasley get into the intersection of artificial intelligence and the current state of grocery prices. They explore how AI can facilitate in-depth research into complex topics such as food inflation, regulatory impacts, and the dynamics of the food supply chain. Through engaging discussions, they highlight the importance of education in navigating these issues and the role of AI in enhancing our understanding of the world around us.

Takeaways

AI can provide deeper insights into complex topics.

Grocery prices are...

Summary

In this episode of AI in Action, hosts Maurie and Jim Beasley welcome JJ Parma from Zero Eyes, a company focused on AI-driven weapon detection technology. JJ shares his journey from a Navy SEAL to his current role, discussing the importance of integrating AI in school safety systems. The conversation delves into the challenges of false positives, the role of human verification in AI detection, and the impact of media representation on public perception. The episode emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to technology in schools, ensuring safety without compromising the educational environment.

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Summary

This conversation explores the potential of AI to transform rural healthcare, particularly through the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP). Maurie and Jim discuss the challenges faced by rural healthcare systems, including doctor shortages, cybersecurity threats, and the need for innovative technologies. They emphasize the importance of trust in technology and the workforce's adaptation to new tools. The discussion highlights the role of AI in reducing burnout among healthcare providers and improving patient care, while also addressing the potential risks and costs associated with implementing these technologies.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Rural Health Transformation...

Summary

In this conversation, Maurie and Jim Beasley, along with Tina Austin, explore the intersection of artificial intelligence and education, focusing on the importance of metacognition, global perspectives on AI, and the need for innovative teaching methods. They discuss the challenges and misunderstandings surrounding AI tool adoption, the need to rethink assessment frameworks, and the potential for AI to enhance student engagement and critical thinking. Tina introduces her Unblooms framework, which aims to create a more inclusive and effective approach to learning in the age of AI.

Takeaways

Metacognition is...

Summary

In this episode, Maurie and Jim Beasley reflect on the past year and discuss their predictions for AI in 2025 and 2026. They explore the evolving landscape of AI technology, the challenges in education, the political implications of AI, and potential market corrections. The conversation emphasizes the importance of practical applications and the need for honest discussions about AI's future.

Takeaways

They are looking forward to changes in season four.

The couple plans to take on sponsors in 2026.

Jim's predictions for AI have proven accurate.

Education is slow...

Summary

In this episode of AI in Action, hosts Maurie and Jim Beasley engage in an unscripted conversation covering a range of topics, including Maurie's recent book signing, the implications of AI policy and regulation, and the distinction between efficiency AI and opportunity AI. They discuss the importance of education in AI adoption, the perception of AI as a wave rather than a bubble, and the challenges faced by rural areas in accessing technology. The episode emphasizes the need for skepticism and innovation in the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence.

Takeaways<...

Summary

In this episode of AI in Action, hosts Maurie and Jim Beasley discuss the implications of artificial intelligence in education, particularly focusing on college admissions, the role of nonprofits in AI education, and the shifting perspectives on the value of college in the age of AI. They emphasize the importance of teaching skepticism towards AI, the need for practical applications of AI tools in education, and the necessity for rural communities to develop their own AI strategies. The conversation also touches on personal anecdotes and the hosts' passion for improving education through technology.

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Summary

In this conversation, Damien discusses the concept of a perfect education system that caters to individual learning needs, while also highlighting its potential pitfalls. He emphasizes the importance of real-world challenges and the need to develop soft skills such as teamwork and collaboration, which may be overlooked in a personalized learning environment.

Takeaways

A perfect education system may not prepare students for real-world challenges.

Real-life situations often present difficulties that aren't addressed in ideal learning environments.

Soft skills such as teamwork and collaboration are crucial...

Summary

In this episode of AI in Action, hosts Maurie and Jim Beasley discuss various aspects of artificial intelligence, including upcoming community events, the implications of AI in healthcare, education, and the future of AI technology with major players like Google and Nvidia. They explore the ethical concerns surrounding AI, particularly in healthcare, and the importance of integrating AI into education. The conversation also delves into the significance of simulations in AI development and the potential for these technologies to shape the future.

Takeaways

The importance of community engagement in...

Summary

In this episode of AI in Action, hosts Maurie and Jim Beasley discuss their experiences with artificial intelligence, the challenges of technology in education, and the importance of AI literacy. They explore disparities in access to AI tools by socioeconomic status and emphasize the need for a deeper understanding of AI beyond surface-level knowledge. The conversation also touches on upcoming events, including book signings and community engagement initiatives.

Takeaways

AI literacy is crucial for the workforce of the future.

There is a significant gap in AI education...

Summary

In this conversation, Maurie and Jim Beasley engage with Dayna Guido to explore the intersection of artificial intelligence and ethics. They discuss the evolving nature of ethical standards in professional practice, the impact of AI on human relationships, and the importance of education in fostering AI literacy. The conversation emphasizes the need for ethical courage in decision-making and the significance of family values in navigating the challenges posed by technology.

Takeaways

AI is reshaping conversations about ethics today.

Ethics involves standards that we agree to live by.<...

Summary

In this episode of AI in Action, Maurie and Jim Beasley discuss the evolving landscape of workforce training and education in the context of artificial intelligence. They explore how corporate America is moving away from on-the-job training, the impact of AI on job security, and the generational differences in workforce loyalty. The conversation also delves into the challenges faced by K-12 education and the importance of experience in the job market, ultimately highlighting the need for self-education in an AI-driven world.

Takeaways

AI is accelerating the...

Summary

In this conversation, Maurie and Jim Beasley discuss the impact of AI on workplace efficiency and productivity. They explore the paradox of becoming more efficient with AI, the societal expectation of busy work, and the potential for maximizing value by focusing on profit-driven tasks. The discussion highlights the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in the modern workplace.

Takeaways

AI can generate busy work faster than before.

Many fear becoming more efficient due to workplace norms.

The busiest person is often the go-to for tasks.<...

Summary

In this episode of AI in Action, hosts Maurie and Jim Beasley discuss the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence, particularly in the entertainment industry. They explore the emergence of AI-generated actors, the backlash from human performers, and the implications of personality rights in Bollywood. The conversation shifts to the impact of AI on content creation and distribution channels, highlighting the rise of influencers and the commoditization of creativity. They emphasize the importance of trust and curation in an age flooded with AI-generated content, and the value of handmade creations. The episode concludes with reflections on the...

Summary

In this episode of AI in Action, hosts Maurie and Jim Beasley explore the latest developments in artificial intelligence, discussing global news, the implications of AI in education, and the challenges of integrating AI into learning processes. They highlight the uneven adoption of AI across different regions and the importance of addressing equity in access to technology. The conversation also explores the concept of agentic automation and the importance of incorporating friction points in learning to improve educational outcomes in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Takeaways

There's a lot...

Summary

In this episode of AI in Action, hosts Maurie and Jim Beasley discuss the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence, its implications for education, and the challenges posed by AI-generated content. They explore recent headlines in AI, the concept of 'knowledge rot,' and the need for new reading skills in the digital age. The conversation emphasizes the importance of engaging students with AI as an active partner in their learning journey, while also addressing the societal impacts of AI on content creation and consumption.

Takeaways

AI is reshaping how...

Summary

In this episode of AI in Action, hosts Maurie and Jim Beasley discuss the evolution of AI, its integration into various sectors, particularly healthcare, and the challenges faced in education. They emphasize the importance of domain knowledge for sustainable AI solutions, the phenomenon of AI hallucinations, and the need for AI to express uncertainty. The conversation also touches on the realities of teaching, classroom challenges, and the necessity of AI literacy in education. They conclude with insights on upcoming events and the future of AI in educational settings.

Takeaways

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Summary

In this episode of AI in Action, hosts Maurie and Jim discuss a recent study from the Center for Countering Digital Hate that examines how young users can manipulate AI to access harmful content. They delve into the implications of AI and social media on youth behavior, the challenges of content filtering, and the importance of education in addressing mental health issues. The conversation highlights the need for a balanced approach that combines technology with counseling and education to protect young people in a digital age.

Takeaways

AI can...

Summary

In this episode of AI in Action, hosts Maurie and Jim Beasley discuss the implications of artificial intelligence in education, particularly focusing on Grammarly's new AI features that predict paper grades. They explore the tension between AI and English departments, the definition of critical thinking, and the economic viability of college degrees. The conversation emphasizes the need to shift from product-oriented assessments to process-oriented learning, highlighting the evolving landscape of education in the age of AI.

Takeaways

Grammarly's AI can predict paper grades, raising concerns.

AI is seen as a...

Summary

In this conversation, Maurie and Jim Beasley discuss the recent release of ChatGPT 5.0, exploring its implications for education and the ongoing debate about AI usage among students. They examine the perspectives of both educators and students on the use of AI tools, the challenges of class sizes, and the need for better support for teachers. The discussion also touches on the ethical considerations of AI in therapy and the societal expectations placed on students and educators alike.

Takeaways

ChatGPT 5.0 is seen as a significant advancement in AI technology.

The conversation...

Summary

In this episode of AI in Action, hosts Maurie and Jim Beasley discuss the latest developments in artificial intelligence, particularly in the context of education and rural America. They explore the U.S. Department of Education's initiatives to integrate AI into educational practices, the potential dissolution of the Department, and the implications for rural communities. The conversation highlights the economic significance of rural America and the importance of teachers' perspectives in the integration of AI technologies. The episode concludes with reflections on their ongoing projects and the challenges they face in promoting AI literacy.

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Summary

In this conversation, Maurie and Jim Beasley explore the multifaceted world of artificial intelligence, sharing personal anecdotes and practical applications of AI in education and beyond. They discuss the importance of understanding AI basics, the diverse ways individuals can utilize AI tools, and the significance of personalizing AI experiences. The conversation also explores the role of AI in workflow automation, content creation, and ethical considerations in education, highlighting the importance of teachers staying informed and engaged with AI advancements.

Takeaways

AI can be used for personal tasks to enhance...

SummaryIn this episode, Maurie and Jim Beasley discuss the intersection of artificial intelligence and education, touching on recent policy developments in Ohio, the implications of AI regulation at the state and federal levels, and the importance of AI literacy for teachers. They also reflect on local tragedies and the need for responsible technology use in schools, emphasizing the necessity of clear policies and the challenges associated with their implementation.

Chapters00:00 Heartfelt Reflections on Texas Tragedy05:25 AI Policy Developments in Ohio12:53 The Debate on Cell Phone Policies in Schools14:39 AI Regulation and Legislative Challenges18:28 The Impact of Online...

Summary

In this episode, Maurie and Jim Beasley discuss their experiences at the ISTE conference, focusing on the role of AI in education. They highlight innovative student projects that utilize AI, Google's recent push into the educational space with free AI tools, and the implications of federal funding freezes on schools. The conversation also explores the challenges presented by CloudStrike's new web crawling policies and their impact on content creators, particularly smaller companies. The episode concludes with reflections on the conference and the importance of human effort in content creation.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to...

Summary

In this episode, Maurie and Jim discuss their experiences at the Elementary Technology Conference and delve into a recent MIT study on AI's impact on learning. They critique the sensational headlines surrounding the study, emphasizing the importance of engagement in education. The conversation explores the potential of AI as a learning tool, the challenges of information pollution, and the future of AI-generated content versus human-generated content. They conclude with thoughts on upcoming events and the significance of authentic storytelling in education.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Conference Experience

02:46 MIT Study on AI...