Conversations on Applied AI

Hosted by Justin Grammens

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113

Latest episode

Apr 2026

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EN-US

About the show

Welcome to the Conversations on Applied AI Podcast where Justin Grammens and the team at Emerging Technologies North talk with experts in the fields of Artificial Intelligence and Deep Learning. In each episode, we cut through the hype and dive into how these technologies are being applied to real-world problems today. We hope that you find this episode educational and applicable to your industry and connect with us to learn more about our organization at AppliedAI.MN. Enjoy!

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April 21, 2026Episode 438 min

Tyler Moberg - Five Minutes a Day: Building an AI Habit That Transforms Your Work

Welcome, everyone, to the Conversations on Applied AI podcast. Today we're talking with Tyler Moberg. Tyler is the founder and owner of Amplified Impact Solutions, where he helps leaders and teams actually use AI in their everyday work. He's trained more than 10,000 professionals since 2024, from Fortune 500 companies to nonprofits, educators to engineers, hr to finance.Prior to his own business, he was an instructional coach at Edina Public Schools and a training consultant at the Bob Pike Group. Tyler also sponsored and presented at our applied AI conference this past fall. I wanna personally thank him for giving back and supporting the applied AI community. Thank you, Tyler, so much for being on our podcast today. If you are interested in learning about how AI is being applied across multiple industries, be sure to join us at a future AppliedAI Monthly meetup and help support us so we can make future Emerging Technologies North non-profit events!Applied AIAppliedAI MeetupEmerging Technologies NorthResources and Topics Mentioned in this EpisodeThe average AI prompt is only 7–9 words — based on a Google study, because people still treat AI like a search engine. Tyler argues a good prompt should be at least 21 words. He personally voice-dictates prompts that are "novel-length." (Hear the discussion)An engineer saved 80 hours of work in 90 minutes — Tyler helped a city public works engineering department build a NotebookLM tool to cross-reference three large mandate documents, eliminating a massive manual comparison task. (Hear the story)"The AI you use today is the worst AI you'll ever use" — a quote from Ethan Mollick cited during the episode, underscoring that resistance to AI now means falling further behind as the tools rapidly improve. (Hear the quote)Plaud Note Pro device records in-person and cross-platform meetings — a physical external recording device that attaches to your phone, is HIPAA-compliant, auto-generates transcripts and executive summaries, and integrates into AI workflows for proposals, coaching notes, and more. (Hear about it)NotebookLM can generate PowerPoint presentations — with a hidden "pencil" customization button before generating. The hack: export as PDF → import into Canva → use Magic Editor to make text editable. Tyler prefers this over Gamma for AI-generated decks. (Hear the tip)Claude's "Skills" feature allows you to save reusable workflows — Tyler demonstrated teaching Claude to write proposals by providing examples and a template, saving it as a skill, then calling it up any time with a new transcript. This dramatically speeds up proposal generation. (Hear the workflow)Book: The AI-Driven Leader by Jeff WoodsAI Mindsets course by Connor GrinTools discussed: Claude, ChatGPT, NotebookLM, Gamma, Canva, Plaud, Perplexity, Grok

April 7, 2026Episode 340 min

Eric Lealos - Test Bench to Tech Stack: Applying AI in Manufacturing

Welcome, everyone, to the Conversations on Applied AI podcast. Today we're speaking with Eric Lelos, a data and analytics leader with more than 20 years of experience helping organizations make better decisions with data.Eric has worked across manufacturing, healthcare, and financial services. Building analytics and AI systems that connect complex technology to real-world operations. Alongside leading quantified mechanics, Eric is also a professional member of the Strategic Synergy Network, where he collaborates with other senior practitioners to help companies solve operational, financial, and strategic challenges without the overhead of full-time teams.His work spans data engineering, modern cloud analytics platforms, and AI-driven insights.If you are interested in learning about how AI is being applied across multiple industries, be sure to join us at a future AppliedAI Monthly meetup and help support us so we can make future Emerging Technologies North non-profit events!Applied AIAppliedAI MeetupEmerging Technologies NorthResources and Topics Mentioned in this EpisodeModern Data Stack (Snowflake, Databricks, DBT, Fivetran)https://www.getdbt.com | https://www.snowflake.com | https://www.databricks.com | https://www.fivetran.comQuantified Mechanics' Test Bench Solutionhttps://quantifiedmechanix.com/Agentic AI & LLMs in Productionhttps://www.langchain.com (framework for building agentic LLM workflows)ChatGPT / Generative AI as a Work Acceleratorhttps://chat.openai.com | https://www.perplexity.aiThe AI Adoption Gap — Further Readinghttps://www.gartner.com/en/research/methodologies/gartner-hype-cycle (Gartner Hype Cycle)

January 20, 2026Episode 239 min

Peter Olson-Skog - How AI Is Forcing Schools to Rethink Learning

Today, we're talking with Dr. Peter Olson-Skog. Peter is the Chief Administrative Officer of School District 197. He was named a Richard Green Scholar for his doctoral research, which described how district offices can support and empower principals. He's also been an assistant superintendent, principal, and director of teaching and learning.Peter holds a BA in elementary education, an MA in human resource development, and a PhD in educational leadership and policy. Most recently, Peter has been leading his district and exploring how transformative the role of AI and artificial intelligence in education is, from empowering teachers to integrate AI tools responsibly to preparing students to graduate as AI-literate and ready for the future.He's been co-leading district-wide fishbowl discussions on AI readiness for both students and faculty on how schools can navigate this new frontier. Peter's a thought leader in AI and education and policy, helping shape how K-12 systems can thoughtfully adapt to ensure the next generation is ready to thrive in an AI-driven world.If you are interested in learning about how AI is being applied across multiple industries, be sure to join us at a future AppliedAI Monthly meetup and help support us so we can make future Emerging Technologies North non-profit events!Applied AIAppliedAI MeetupEmerging Technologies NorthResources and Topics Mentioned in this EpisodeHow School Districts Are Crafting AI Policy on the Fly -https://www.edweek.org/technology/how-school-districts-are-crafting-ai-policy-on-the-fly/2025/10Rising Use of AI in Schools Comes With Big Downsides for Students -https://www.edweek.org/technology/rising-use-of-ai-in-schools-comes-with-big-downsides-for-students/2025/10Teachers and Parents Weigh Benefits and Risks of Artificial Intelligence in Schools - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/teachers-and-parents-weigh-benefits-and-risks-of-artificial-intelligence-in-schoolsWhich States Require Schools to Have AI Policies - https://www.edweek.org/technology/which-states-require-schools-to-have-ai-policies/2025/09AI in Schools: Pros and Cons – College of Education - https://education.illinois.edu/about/news-events/news/article/2024/10/24/ai-in-schools--pros-and-cons

January 5, 2026Episode 130 min

Thomas Feeney - AI, Philosophy, and the Future of Leadership

Today, we're talking with Thomas Feeney, Associate Professor of Philosophy and Director of the Master of Arts and Artificial Intelligence Leadership at the University of St. Thomas. Thomas now leads this one-of-a-kind program, which blends technical understanding with the critical thinking, foresight, and communication needed for responsible AI leadership.With more than a decade in academia and a foundation philosophy, he helps organizations and leaders assess AI strategic implications. Translate complex ideas into practical action. He holds a PhD from Yale University and an MA in philosophy from Notre Dame. Thank you, Thomas, for being on the program today!If you are interested in learning about how AI is being applied across multiple industries, be sure to join us at a future AppliedAI Monthly meetup and help support us so we can make future Emerging Technologies North non-profit events!Applied AIAppliedAI MeetupEmerging Technologies NorthResources and Topics Mentioned in this EpisodeHow AI Is Reshaping the Talent Pipeline and Career Development – As AI transforms job roles and skills needs, leaders are rethinking how to build talent pipelines that prepare workers for the evolving world of work and help organizations compete. https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/people-and-organizational-performance/our-insights/building-a-talent-pipeline-for-the-ai-eraAI’s Critique of Higher Education and Learning Itself – A provocative analysis argues that generative AI is significantly disrupting traditional university learning, academic integrity, and the meaning of earning a degree. https://www.currentaffairs.org/news/ai-is-destroying-the-university-and-learning-itselfPartnerships Between People and AI in the Future of Work – Research highlights how AI agents, robots, and humans will collaborate in the workforce, reshaping job tasks, skills, and organizational structures. https://www.mckinsey.com/mgi/our-research/agents-robots-and-us-skill-partnerships-in-the-age-of-aiGenerative AI’s Impact on American Workers and the Future of Jobs – Analysis from a leading think tank explores what generative AI means for labor markets, outlining both risks and opportunities for workers. https://www.brookings.edu/articles/generative-ai-the-american-worker-and-the-future-of-work/Ethical Challenges and Academic Integrity in AI-Driven Education – An overview of how AI affects learning environments, including concerns about over-reliance, accuracy, and integrity in educational settings. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artificial_intelligence_in_education

November 25, 2025Episode 830 min

Ren Bin Lee Dixon - Exploring Global AI Policies

Today we're talking with Ren Bin Lee Dixon. Renin comes to the podcast with a deep experience in public and artificial intelligence policy. She's experienced in the research and analysis of issues at the intersection of technology, socioeconomics, and politics, with an international and diverse professional background in academia, public and private sectors. She's currently a research fellow at the Center for AI and Digital Policy, where she drafts AI policy statements and comments to local and global regulatory bodies with a focus on human rights, democratic values, and the rules of law. A graduate of the Humphrey School of Public Affairs, her master's thesis entitled AI Governance, A Comparative Analysis of China, the European Union, and the United States was awarded an excellence in global policy in 2022. She also previously has been a marketing and PR specialist with more than 15 years of professional experience in the private sector, including starting an online retail business. Thank you, Ren bin, for being on the podcast today. If you are interested in learning about how AI is being applied across multiple industries, be sure to join us at a future AppliedAI Monthly meetup and help support us so we can make future Emerging Technologies North non-profit events!Applied AIAppliedAI MeetupEmerging Technologies NorthResources and Topics Mentioned in this EpisodeThe Challenge of Regulating AI in the US – Lawmakers are struggling to keep up with AI’s rapid evolution, resulting in gaps in oversight and accountability. https://www.congress.gov/crs-product/R48555How Algorithms Incentivise Engagement – Social-media ranking algorithms optimise for clicks and shares, often amplifying polarising or sensational content. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11894805/AI as a Foundational Technology – Artificial intelligence is moving beyond niche applications to become a core infrastructure across industries and business models. https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/quantumblack/our-insights/the-next-innovation-revolution-powered-by-aiThe Information Integrity Challenge – The rapid spread of misinformation and disinformation is undermining trust in digital ecosystems and societal decision-making. https://www.oecd.org/content/dam/oecd/en/publications/reports/2024/03/facts-not-fakes-tackling-disinformation-strengthening-information-integrity_ff96d19f/d909ff7a-en.pdfCan AI Help Regulate AI? – Researchers and policymakers are exploring whether AI-based tools can monitor, audit, and govern other AI systems to ensure fairness and safety. https://academic.oup.com/policyandsociety/article/44/1/85/7684910

November 3, 2025Episode 738 min

Dr. Elizabeth M Adams - Harnessing AI Responsibly

Today, we're talking with Dr. Elizabeth M. Adams. Elizabeth is the Chief Engagement Officer at the Minnesota Responsible AI Institute and the CEO of EMA advisory services, where she curates knowledge-exchange initiatives with global leaders on the critical importance of responsible AI. She believes that responsible AI equals a better Minnesota to both preserve our state's natural resources and promote sustainable economic growth.She's an author, TEDx speaker, and keynote speaker sharing her leadership of a responsible AI framework, which helps organizations sustain employee engagement. And I'm super excited for our listeners here to learn more about this framework and how they can apply it within their business and professional career.If you are interested in learning about how AI is being applied across multiple industries, be sure to join us at a future AppliedAI Monthly meetup and help support us so we can make future Emerging Technologies North non-profit events!Emerging Technologies NorthAppliedAI MeetupResources and Topics Mentioned in this EpisodeBecoming Invisible in the Age of AIHow individuals and communities risk being overlooked or "invisible" as AI systems make decisions that affect their lives.Learn more about algorithmic invisibilityDiscovering AI Bias and Building Ethics PrinciplesThe process of uncovering bias in AI and the importance of establishing ethical guidelines for development and deployment.Read about AI ethics and biasHow Bias Creeps into AI SystemsA discussion on the subtle ways bias can enter AI models, from data collection to algorithm design.Explore how bias enters AIThe Urgency of Responsible AI AdoptionWhy organizations and society must prioritize responsible AI practices now, not later.Responsible AI: Why it matters nowLinking Responsible AI to Natural ResourcesDrawing parallels between responsible AI stewardship and the management of natural resources.Responsible AI and sustainabilityElizabeth's Journey into Responsible AIDr. Elizabeth M. Adams shares her personal path and motivations for focusing on responsible AI.About Dr. Elizabeth M. AdamsThe Leadership of Responsible AI FrameworkAn overview of frameworks and leadership principles guiding responsible AI implementation.Responsible AI leadership frameworksCommunity Engagement and Launching EMA AdvisoryThe importance of community involvement in AI and the founding of EMA Advisory Services.EMA Advisory Services

October 27, 2025Episode 745 min

David Quimby - Systematic Innovation and the Art of AI:

The conversation this week is with David Quimby. David is a principal at Innovation Radiation, specializing in systematic innovation, experimental design, and technology forecasting. He is a patented inventor in web architecture and user experience, and co-founder of the Minnesota Change Management Network. David holds a BA in Mathematical and Developmental Economics from UCLA and a Master’s in Organizational Behavior and Sociotechnical Systems from UC Berkeley. With extensive experience in technology analysis, consulting, and product discovery, David is passionate about bridging technical and social systems to drive innovation. He has been an active member of the applied AI community, sharing his expertise at events and workshops. He is dedicated to advancing the field of AI through both practical application and thought leadership. If you are interested in learning about how AI is being applied across multiple industries, be sure to join us at a future AppliedAI Monthly meetup and help support us so we can make future Emerging Technologies North non-profit events!Emerging Technologies NorthAppliedAI MeetupResources and Topics Mentioned in this EpisodeSystematic InnovationSystematic Innovation OverviewDesign Patterns (Christopher Alexander)Design Patterns: Christopher AlexanderLateral Thinking (Edward de Bono)Lateral Thinking by Edward de BonoTRIZ (Theory of Inventive Problem Solving)TRIZ MethodologyMorphological Analysis (Fritz Zwicky)Morphological AnalysisHuman-Centric Design (Doug Engelbart)Doug Engelbart and Human-Centric DesignAI Alignment and HallucinationAI Alignment ProblemMatrix Mentor (Custom GPT by David Quimby & Dan Olson)Matrix Mentor

April 8, 2025Episode 635 min

Ayisha Tabbassum - AI Upskilling: A New Era of Workforce Empowerment

The conversation this week is with Ayisha Tabbassum. Ayisha is a visionary technology leader with more than 10 years of experience in driving business infused technology initiatives and digital transformation in large enterprises. She's the founder and CEO of One Stop for Cloud, senior vice president at the New World Foundation and holds a master's in computer science from Indiana University Bloomington with multiple cloud certifications. Always someone to give back. She has been involved with the applied AI community for years. She has spoken at our applied AI conference. She's led sessions at our workshop Wednesday and is both passionate about learning new technologies and staying up to date with the latest trends in cloud computing and DevOps in AI. If you are interested in learning about how AI is being applied across multiple industries, be sure to join us at a future AppliedAI Monthly meetup and help support us so we can make future Emerging Technologies North non-profit events!Emerging Technologies NorthAppliedAI MeetupResources and Topics Mentioned in this EpisodeOne Stop For CloudThe New World FoundationVertex AI StudioCAMP IT ConferencesTopmate.ioCo-Intelligence by Ethan MollickEnjoy!Your host,Justin Grammens

March 25, 2025Episode 541 min

Caroline Holden - How Artists Will Shape the Future of Tech

The conversation this week is with Caroline Holden. Caroline is a dynamic creative technologist with more than seven years of experience across startups, venture capital, and media in Minneapolis and New York City. She's known for delivering impressive growth, including 10,000% year-over-year sales increase at Mercado, boosting YouTube engagement by 336 % at DataVolo, and amassing 43,000 views on her AI-focused YouTube channel. Caroline's achievements span managing major events like Twin Cities Startup Week, producing award-winning scripts, and driving innovation in strategy operations and marketing. She's collaborated with top brands like MasterCard and Verizon, and has a proven ability to find creative solutions to complex problems. Most recently, she was the growth and marketing manager at DataVolo, which was recently acquired by Snowflake in November. If you are interested in learning about how AI is being applied across multiple industries, be sure to join us at a future AppliedAI Monthly meetup and help support us so we can make future Emerging Technologies North non-profit events!Emerging Technologies NorthAppliedAI MeetupResources and Topics Mentioned in this Episodecarolineswiftholden.comMercadoDatavoloMinneapolis College of Art and DesignHomSurfinSnowflakeBubbleWe Are the Nerds by Christine Lagorio-ChafkinRange by David EpsteinDesigning Your Life by Bill Burnett and Dave EvansEnjoy!Your host,Justin Grammens

March 11, 2025Episode 433 min

Jean Machart - From Digital Transformation to AI-Driven Healthcare

The conversation this week is with Jean Machart. Jean is a transformation executive leading companies by applying digital and artificial intelligence to create future-forward products, services, and experiences. She enables growth at scale with industry-leading companies, Fortune 5 Healthcare, Fortune 200 Financial Services, and more, and is prepared to lead the next transformation. She's an artificial intelligence entrepreneur in residence at Digital DX Ventures,a board member at Asbury Communities for Senior Living and HTEC, and recently was a chief operating officer at Children's Cancer Research Fund. Jean holds an MBA in information technology from the Carlson School of Management at the University of Minnesota and completed the “Competing in the Age of Artificial Intelligence” from Harvard Business School's Executive Education Program. If you are interested in learning about how AI is being applied across multiple industries, be sure to join us at a future AppliedAI Monthly meetup and help support us so we can make future Emerging Technologies North non-profit events!Emerging Technologies NorthAppliedAI MeetupResources and Topics Mentioned in this EpisodeDigitalDx VenturesAsbury Communities for Senior LivingChildren's Cancer Research Fund.HTECCo-Intelligence by Ethan MollickCompeting in the Age of AI by Marco Iansiti and Karim R. LakhaniEnjoy!Your host,Justin Grammens