AI In Action: Exploring Tomorrow's Tech Today

Maurie Beasley

Join hosts Maurie and Jim on 'AI in Action: Exploring Tomorrow's Tech Today'. Drawing from their extensive education and technology backgrounds, they navigate AI's rapidly evolving landscape across sectors. Each episode unpacks the latest AI breakthroughs, making this complex field accessible for educators, tech enthusiasts, and curious minds alike. Tune in to explore how AI is transforming our world, today and tomorrow.

  1. 1D AGO

    Conference Chaos and the Agentic Shift

    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 the game• How bots are shaping AI conversations online• And what happens if fear slows innovation If you’re responsible for technology decisions in a district, or you’re trying to make sense of where AI is heading next, this one’s for you. The agentic shift is here. Are you ready for it?

    32 min

  2. JAN 29

    Understanding Food Inflation Through AI

    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 influenced by various factors including supply chain issues. Infographics can effectively communicate research findings. Education is crucial for understanding and utilizing AI. Price fixing in the food industry is a significant concern. The dynamics of food pricing can be likened to the rocket and feather analogy. Regulations can impact food prices and industry practices. AI tools can assist in research and information gathering. Understanding the food supply chain is essential for consumers. Systemic issues in food access need to be addressed. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to AI and Personal Insights 02:01 Deep Research and AI Reasoning 04:41 Infographics and Visual Learning 07:43 Understanding Grocery Inflation 10:17 Factors Influencing Meat Prices 13:15 The Role of Corporations in Pricing 15:51 Debating Rigged vs. Real Systems 18:48 The Impact of Natural Disasters on Prices 21:35 Regulations and Their Effects on Pricing 24:18 The Role of AI in Research and Education 27:16 Conclusion and Call to Action 34:21 businessTech-outro-low.wav

    35 min

  3. JAN 20

    If Your Gun Detection Just Texts You… Walk Away

    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. Takeaways JJ Parma is a retired Navy SEAL who now works in AI weapon detection. Zero Eyes aims to implement AI technology in schools for safety. The technology focuses on detecting brandished firearms only. Human verification is crucial to reduce false positives in AI detection. Media representation can misinterpret incidents involving AI technology. Schools need to balance safety measures with a non-prison-like environment. AI technology must be integrated thoughtfully in educational settings. The importance of situational awareness during emergencies is highlighted. JJ emphasizes the need for human oversight in AI systems. The conversation reflects on the ethical implications of AI in schools. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to AI in Action 06:07 The Journey of JJ Parma 14:02 Understanding AI in Weapon Detection 23:39 The Clarinet Incident and Media Misrepresentation 31:26 The Role of Human Verification in AI 33:29 Conclusion and Future of AI in Schools

    36 min

  4. JAN 14

    Can AI Save Rural Healthcare?

    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 Program 02:59 The Role of AI in Rural Healthcare 05:54 Cybersecurity Challenges in Rural Healthcare 09:15 AI Innovations: Scribes and Beyond 12:09 Trust Issues with AI in Healthcare 15:00 The Future of Healthcare in Rural America 18:13 Bridging the Trust Gap with Technology 21:01 Workforce Concerns in the Age of AI 24:15 AI as a Triage Tool in Healthcare 27:01 Conclusion: Hope for Rural Healthcare with AI

    29 min

  5. JAN 4

    Season 4: Episode 1 - An Interview with Tina Austin

    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 thinking about one's own thinking. AI can eliminate friction points in learning, but we need to reintroduce them. Global perspectives on education reveal diverse pedagogical methods. AI can enhance student engagement and provide opportunities for personalized learning. Misunderstandings about AI tools can hinder effective adoption in education. Assessment frameworks need to evolve to address AI's capabilities. Innovative teaching methods are essential to keep students engaged. Critical thinking and problem-solving should be prioritized in education. Higher education must adapt to maintain its value in the face of AI. Unblooms offers a new framework for learning that emphasizes problem-solving and critical engagement with AI. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to AI in Education 02:25 Understanding Metacognition and Its Importance 04:34 Global Perspectives on AI in Education 07:37 AI's Role in Enhancing Student Engagement 10:18 Misunderstandings in AI Tool Adoption 12:06 Rethinking Assessment in the Age of AI 15:06 The Need for Innovative Teaching Methods 19:06 Fostering Critical Thinking and Problem Solving 23:36 The Future of Higher Education and AI 26:18 Introducing Unblooms: A New Framework for Learning

    35 min

  6. 12/31/2025

    Season 3: Episode 41 - AI Predications and More

    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 to adopt AI technologies. Political polarization around AI is expected in 2026. A sizable correction in the AI market may occur in 2026. K-12 education is lagging in AI adoption. The importance of practical applications of AI is emphasized. The conversation highlights the need for honest discussions about AI. They are committed to continuing their podcast into the next year. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Season Changes 02:54 Predictions for 2025 Review 05:46 Predictions for 2026 Discussion 11:47 Education and AI Adoption 14:39 Political Landscape and AI 16:21 Technology Trends and Market Corrections 23:37 Future of AI and Practical Applications

    29 min

  7. 12/18/2025

    Season 3: Episode 40 - Waves, Opportunities, and Education

    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 The hosts enjoy unscripted conversations, reminiscent of their early podcast days. Maurie's book signing was a success, with many kids buying books for their teachers. There is a need for federal minimum requirements for AI regulations. AI is viewed as a wave that will continue to evolve, not a bubble that will burst. The distinction between efficiency AI and opportunity AI is crucial for understanding AI's impact. Education is essential for bridging the gap in AI adoption. Rural areas may lose innovative ideas due to lack of access to technology. Skepticism towards AI can foster trust and verification in its use. AI can enhance learning opportunities if integrated properly in education. The hosts plan to discuss AI weapon detection technology in future episodes. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Unscripted Conversations 01:14 Book Signing Experience 02:51 Discussion on AI Policy and Regulation 08:49 AI as a Wave, Not a Bubble 14:55 Efficiency AI vs Opportunity AI 22:36 The Importance of Education in AI Adoption 25:43 Skepticism and Innovation in Rural Areas

    30 min

  8. 12/03/2025

    Season 3: Episode 39 - College in an AI World

    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. Takeaways AI is being used to score college essays and tests. There is skepticism about the effectiveness of AI in education. Nonprofits play a crucial role in AI education initiatives. Many students believe that college is not worth the cost. Trade skills are becoming more valued than traditional college degrees. Teaching AI skepticism is essential for students' education. AI tools can enhance learning and teaching methods. Rural communities need tailored AI strategies for education. The conversation highlights the importance of practical AI applications. The hosts emphasize their commitment to improving education through AI. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal News 02:06 AI in Education: Scoring Essays and Admissions 04:52 Skepticism Towards AI Frameworks in Education 07:16 The Value of College Education in the Age of AI 10:52 Shifting Perspectives: Trade Skills vs. College Degrees 14:42 Teaching AI Skepticism to Students 18:19 AI in Decision Making and Library Book Vetting 21:14 The Role of Nonprofits in AI Education 24:48 Future Aspirations for Rural Communities and AI

    35 min
See All (118)

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Join hosts Maurie and Jim on 'AI in Action: Exploring Tomorrow's Tech Today'. Drawing from their extensive education and technology backgrounds, they navigate AI's rapidly evolving landscape across sectors. Each episode unpacks the latest AI breakthroughs, making this complex field accessible for educators, tech enthusiasts, and curious minds alike. Tune in to explore how AI is transforming our world, today and tomorrow.

Information