AI at Work

Elijah Szasz, Kevin Williams
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AI at Work is hosted by Elijah Szasz (CEO of SPARK6) and Kevin Williams (CEO of Ascend Labs). Each week delivers actionable insights on how artificial intelligence is reshaping jobs today, and how you can use it to advance your career. We unpack real-world tools, automation workflows, and emerging roles so you can stop chasing hype and start using AI to get things done. Whether you’re an individual contributor, team lead, or business owner, we show you what to build, what to ask for, and what to look for in a workplace moving at machine-speed.

Episodes

  1. AI Video Ads Are Beating Studio Shoots… and the Uncanny Valley Isn’t Even the Scary Part

    16/12/2025

    AI Video Ads Are Beating Studio Shoots… and the Uncanny Valley Isn’t Even the Scary Part

    Summary In this conversation, Elijah Szasz and Kevin Williams explore the intersection of AI and video technology, particularly in the context of advertising and marketing. They discuss the evolution of AI-generated content, the ethical implications of using AI in advertising, and the potential impact of government regulations on the industry. The conversation also touches on personal experiences with AI tools and the future outlook for AI in business and national security. Takeaways AI is transforming video technology and advertising.The uncanny valley effect is still a challenge in AI-generated content.Diverse media types are essential for effective advertising.AI-generated ads are outperforming traditional studio-produced content.Ethical considerations are crucial in AI advertising.Government regulations are evolving to address AI's impact.AI can enhance organizational efficiency and creativity.The intersection of AI and national security is a growing concern.Personal experiences with AI tools can inform business strategies.The future of AI in business is promising but requires careful navigation. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to AI and Video Technology 02:44 The Evolution of Advertising with AI 05:28 The Impact of AI on Marketing Strategies 08:36 Ethics and Regulations in AI Advertising 11:40 The Future of Video in Business 14:40 AI's Role in Creative Processes 17:33 The Intersection of AI and Traditional Media 20:35 Challenges and Opportunities in AI Adoption 23:28 Conclusion and Future Outlook 30:40 Navigating AI Adoption Challenges 34:37 The Impact of Executive Orders on AI 37:58 Understanding AI Regulations and Responsibilities 41:06 National Security and AI: A Global Perspective 48:36 Leveraging AI for Productivity 55:08 Exploring AI Tools and Innovations Show Notes & Links: https://www.spark6.com/podcast   Submit listener questions:  elijah@spark6.com kevin@ascendlabs.ai    Check out Kevin’s stuff: Ascend Labs: https://ascendlabs.ai/ Follow Kevin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinguywilliams/   Check out Eli’s Stuff: SPARK6 Agency: https://www.spark6.com/ Sign up for FREE AI Framework Friday Newsletter: https://www.spark6.com/newsletter Follow Elijah on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elijahszasz/

    1h 1m
  2. Tony Stark Workflows Are Here: AI Decks, Venn Diagrams & Jarvis-Level Gemini

    10/12/2025

    Tony Stark Workflows Are Here: AI Decks, Venn Diagrams & Jarvis-Level Gemini

    Summary In this conversation the hosts dive into how NotebookLM, powered by Google Gemini, has become a major productivity unlock for creative and knowledge-work tasks. Rather than re-designing slides or reports manually, NotebookLM lets them dump all their source documents (research, transcripts, notes), then generate polished slide decks, infographics, or even “podcast-style” audio overviews in minutes. The surprise: AI does not just amplify their output, it gives them entirely new capabilities, from treating complex text as a “bookstore” of knowledge, to turning dense material into clean, usable visuals and decks that previously would have taken hours or days. Takeaways NotebookLM shines when you feed it raw source material, docs, PDFs, transcripts, then ask for a deck, infographic, or summary.Using it freed weeks of work: what once took hours of coding, formatting or design now takes minutes.The combination of deep context (lots of source docs) plus lightweight prompts often yields surprisingly usable results.Graphics, layout, and narrative flow are “good enough” not perfect for every case, but excellent for internal use or quick client briefs.As AI tools improve, expect slide-deck and presentation workflows to shift dramatically: spending time on content and storytelling instead of formatting. Chapters 00:00 The Future of AI and Human Interaction 02:41 Exploring AI Tools and Their Capabilities 05:56 The Power of Visual Data Representation 08:44 Understanding Notebook LM and Its Applications 11:50 Creating Presentations with AI 14:46 The Evolution of AI in Workflow Management 34:39 Building Context with Notebook LM 40:39 Creating Effective Presentations with AI 46:23 The Art of Prompting for Better Outputs 52:28 Branding and Consistency in Presentations 57:24 Managing Context and Information Flow Show Notes & Links: https://www.spark6.com/podcast   Submit listener questions:  elijah@spark6.com kevin@ascendlabs.ai    Check out Kevin’s stuff: Ascend Labs: https://ascendlabs.ai/ Follow Kevin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinguywilliams/   Check out Eli’s Stuff: SPARK6 Agency: https://www.spark6.com/ Sign up for FREE AI Framework Friday Newsletter: https://www.spark6.com/newsletter Follow Elijah on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elijahszasz/

    1h 7m
  3. I Crashed an MBA Class to Talk AI. Here's What They Needed to Hear.

    02/12/2025

    I Crashed an MBA Class to Talk AI. Here's What They Needed to Hear.

    Summary Elijah recaps a talk he gave to University of Utah MBA students on how AI is reshaping work and why most professionals are still underusing it. He walks through the evolution from rule-based systems to today’s generative models, clarifies the difference between narrow AI and AGI, and explains singularity-style futures without pretending anyone knows the timeline. He contrasts media skepticism and bubble talk with hard data, like autonomous vehicle safety and Amazon’s AI powered recommendations. Then he gets practical, sharing a pyramid for adoption, the “clerks, colleagues, coaches” model of AI at work, and a roadmap for governance, safe experimentation, and turning AI from time saver into revenue driver. Takeaways • Most professionals, even in MBA programs, are barely using AI, which creates a huge edge for anyone who builds literacy now.• Modern AI is narrow but rapidly broadening, and while AGI timelines are uncertain, capability curves are clearly exponential, not linear.• Skepticism about bubbles and hallucinations is valid, yet many real world systems, like autonomous driving and fraud detection, are already outperforming humans.• The fastest wins come from automating tasks you dislike, then moving up the pyramid to work AI simply cannot do well and finally to revenue generating personalization.• Sustainable adoption requires an AI manifesto, governance, role specific training, clear ownership, sandboxes for experimentation, and a focus on AI as clerk, colleague, and coach rather than human replacement. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to AI in Education 02:51 The Evolution of AI: From Rule-Based to Generative 06:05 Understanding Narrow AI vs. AGI 08:41 The Turing Test and Its Implications 11:33 The Singularity: Predictions and Possibilities 14:27 Current Applications of AI Across Industries 17:45 Skepticism and Challenges in AI Adoption 20:39 The Future of AI: Opportunities and Limitations 28:51 The Negativity Bias in AI Innovation 33:36 The AI Supercycle: A New Era of Technology 35:55 Generative AI: Capabilities and Limitations 39:51 Practical Applications of AI in Business 45:12 Governance and Ethical Considerations in AI 49:53 The Future of AI: Trends and Predictions Show Notes & Links: https://www.spark6.com/podcast   Submit listener questions:  elijah@spark6.com kevin@ascendlabs.ai    Check out Kevin’s stuff: Ascend Labs: https://ascendlabs.ai/ Follow Kevin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinguywilliams/   Check out Eli’s Stuff: SPARK6 Agency: https://www.spark6.com/ Sign up for FREE AI Framework Friday Newsletter: https://www.spark6.com/newsletter Follow Elijah on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elijahszasz/

    55 min
  4. My AI Coach Dropped an F-Bomb: Claude, Gemini 3 & The Future of Workflows

    25/11/2025

    My AI Coach Dropped an F-Bomb: Claude, Gemini 3 & The Future of Workflows

    Summary In this conversation, Elijah Szasz and Kevin Williams reflect on the end of the year, discussing the holiday rush and the challenges of managing workloads during this busy time. They delve into their experiences with various AI tools, particularly focusing on Gemini 3 and Claude, exploring their features, user experiences, and the implications for workflows in business. The discussion also touches on Google's resilience in the AI landscape, the integration challenges of different AI models, and the potential for new capabilities that these tools can unlock. They conclude with thoughts on the evolving nature of AI tools and their impact on marketing and content creation, while considering future developments in the AI space. Takeaways The end of the year often feels like a rush to complete tasks before the holidays.Different businesses operate on different cycles, affecting workload and planning.AI tools like Gemini 3 are becoming increasingly integrated into workflows.User experiences with AI models can vary significantly over time.Google's financial resilience positions it well in the AI landscape.Integration challenges exist between different AI models and tools.New capabilities in AI can unlock significant efficiencies in work processes.The evolution of AI tools is leading to better user experiences and outcomes.AI's impact on marketing and content creation is profound and transformative.Future developments in AI are unpredictable but hold great potential. Chapters 00:00 End of Year Reflections and Holiday Rush 09:00 AI Model Experiences: Gemini 3 and Beyond 18:01 Exploring Google's AI Ecosystem and Nano Banana Pro 20:53 The Power of AI Tools 24:28 Navigating Google's AI Ecosystem 27:51 Unlocking New Capabilities with AI 32:12 The Future of AI in Workspaces 36:48 Challenges in AI Integration 42:37 The Unpredictable Future of AI Show Notes & Links: https://www.spark6.com/podcast   Submit listener questions:  elijah@spark6.com kevin@ascendlabs.ai    Check out Kevin’s stuff: Ascend Labs: https://ascendlabs.ai/ Follow Kevin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinguywilliams/   Check out Eli’s Stuff: SPARK6 Agency: https://www.spark6.com/ Sign up for FREE AI Framework Friday Newsletter: https://www.spark6.com/newsletter Follow Elijah on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elijahszasz/

    44 min
  5. AI Agents, Chaos Workflows & Why Sora Is Ruining Our Lives (In the Best Way)

    18/11/2025

    AI Agents, Chaos Workflows & Why Sora Is Ruining Our Lives (In the Best Way)

    Summary In this episode of AI at Work, Elijah and Kevin dive into the shifting terrain of automation and AI-powered agents. They highlight how traditional “if this, then that” workflows are giving way to dynamic systems driven by large language models, platforms like n8n enable you to describe what you want done, not just how. They share two real-world use cases, one clutter-clearing example (categorizing home-repair receipts) and one high-value business trigger (automated meeting-prep briefs). The conversation underlines the big leap: moving from rule-based automations to agent architectures that can decide, adapt, and act. Takeaways• Automation still matters, but the magic happens when an LLM steps into the workflow and makes decisions.• Platforms like n8n now bridge no-code visual workflows with AI agentic functionality. n8n+1• Start small: find one tedious, repetitive task you do and automate it today. Build confidence before scaling.• Be aware of guardrails: data access, security, and scope still matter when your agent can act autonomously.• The shift is real: business value lies not just in moving data, but in orchestrating flows where parts of the system think. Chapters00:00 Hectic mornings, Google Docs & teleoperated Sora robots02:30 Playing with Sora & falling into the AI video rabbit hole04:40 Bengal cat chaos & the dark side of AI gen videos07:10 AI-native kids & shifting expectations about tech09:30 Smart speakers, home automation hell & the orchestration gap13:45 The Midwit meme & the $16 wired earbud breakthrough17:20 Agents vs automations: what’s the actual difference?24:30 Picking a platform, connectors, APIs & pricing models45:20 Real-world agents: sales prep & everyday automations01:01:45 Agentic browsers & letting AI work inside your apps Show Notes & Links: https://www.spark6.com/podcast   Submit listener questions:  elijah@spark6.com kevin@ascendlabs.ai    Check out Kevin’s stuff: Ascend Labs: https://ascendlabs.ai/ Follow Kevin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinguywilliams/   Check out Eli’s Stuff: SPARK6 Agency: https://www.spark6.com/ Sign up for FREE AI Framework Friday Newsletter: https://www.spark6.com/newsletter Follow Elijah on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elijahszasz/

    1h 11m
  6. Quit Typing. Start Talking: Voice, Vibe Coding, and the Real ROI of AI (No, 95% Don’t Fail)

    11/11/2025

    Quit Typing. Start Talking: Voice, Vibe Coding, and the Real ROI of AI (No, 95% Don’t Fail)

    Summary The conversation explores the future of artificial general intelligence (AGI) and robotics, particularly focusing on the emergence of humanoid robots. The speakers discuss the likelihood of AGI being a part of the technological landscape in the next decade and the potential for humanoid robots to become commonplace in various sectors, moving beyond simple tasks to more complex functionalities. Takeaways It's increasingly likely that the 10-year picture will include AGI. Humanoid robots will likely be prevalent in everyday life. Robotics will evolve to perform tasks beyond current capabilities. The conversation highlights the distinction between basic automation and advanced humanoid robotics. The speakers express confidence in the advancements of robotics in the next decade. Humanoid robots may take on roles that require more than just lifting boxes. The discussion emphasizes the functional aspects of robotics in various industries. There is a growing expectation for humanoid robots to integrate into daily activities. The future of robotics is seen as a blend of AGI and physical capabilities. The timeline for these advancements is projected to be within the next ten years. Chapters 00:00 Early mornings, parenting exhaustion & AI bedtime hack04:19 What is “superintelligence”? (AGI vs. SI)08:12 The singularity explained & unpredictability10:33 OpenAI progress claims, safety & global coordination12:05 Planning beyond today’s AI; 10-year robot horizon18:50 Deloitte refund cautionary tale (fake citations)22:49 Company guardrails: policies, manifesto & non-abdication26:04 Free vs. paid AI models; data control & opt-outs31:48 Building on frontier models: unpredictability & guardrails33:46 Measuring drift, compliance, and production monitoring35:59 ROI studies: MIT controversy vs. Wharton findings41:14 Where ROI shows up: content, research, knowledge mgmt44:14 AI dictation as a workflow unlock50:01 “Year of the agent” & voice in field ops54:07 “Vibe coding” overview (Replit/Lovable vs. dev tools)56:27 Scope first: why non-dev builds stall at 85%59:16 Google’s AI Studio/Opal strengths & ecosystem fit01:02:43 Using one model to scope prompts for another01:04:07 Prompt hygiene: “one question at a time”01:07:14 Next episode teaser: share real workflows Show Notes & Links: https://www.spark6.com/podcast   Submit listener questions:  elijah@spark6.com kevin@ascendlabs.ai    Check out Kevin’s stuff: Ascend Labs: https://ascendlabs.ai/ Follow Kevin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinguywilliams/   Check out Eli’s Stuff: SPARK6 Agency: https://www.spark6.com/ Sign up for FREE AI Framework Friday Newsletter: https://www.spark6.com/newsletter Follow Elijah on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elijahszasz/

    1h 7m
  7. OpenAI Just Nerfed Your Lawyer & Doctor Bot - What Actually Changed (and What Still Works)

    04/11/2025

    OpenAI Just Nerfed Your Lawyer & Doctor Bot - What Actually Changed (and What Still Works)

    Summary The conversation explores the evolution of process automation, detailing the transition from manual methods to the implementation of custom GPT tools that streamline workflows. It highlights the phases of development, from initial disorganized documentation to fully automated systems that require no human intervention. Takeaways Phase one was a sloppy Google document. Phase two is building this custom GPT. A third party can handle processes with this tool. There's still some copying and pasting involved. Phase three involves full automation. We could put it on a cron for scheduling. Automation fetches information from Google docs. APIs can be used to get transcripts automatically. Everything is just there with no human interaction. The evolution of these phases enhances productivity. Chapters 00:00 Evolution of Process Automation 00:32 From Manual to Automated Workflows Show Notes & Links: https://www.spark6.com/podcast   Submit listener questions:  elijah@spark6.com kevin@ascendlabs.ai    Check out Kevin’s stuff: Ascend Labs: https://ascendlabs.ai/ Follow Kevin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinguywilliams/   Check out Eli’s Stuff: SPARK6 Agency: https://www.spark6.com/ Sign up for FREE AI Framework Friday Newsletter: https://www.spark6.com/newsletter Follow Elijah on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elijahszasz/

    1h 11m
  8. Inaugural Episode - The Evolution of Work and AI Literacy

    29/10/2025

    Inaugural Episode - The Evolution of Work and AI Literacy

    In the inaugural episode of 'AI at Work', hosts Elijah Szasz and Kevin Williams explore the transformative impact of AI in the workplace. They discuss the importance of AI literacy, the potential for new job roles, and the challenges organizations face in adapting to these changes. The conversation emphasizes the need for individuals to embrace AI tools to enhance productivity and future-proof their careers. The hosts share their backgrounds, insights on the evolving nature of work, and practical advice for leveraging AI effectively. Access the show notes and links hereChapters 00:00 Introduction to AI at Work 03:04 The Importance of AI in the Workplace 05:53 AI's Impact on Job Roles 08:47 The Evolution of Work and AI Literacy 11:50 Personal Backgrounds and Experiences with AI 17:48 Navigating AI Implementation in Organizations 23:59 The Future of Work and New Opportunities 29:51 Addressing Audience Questions and Concerns 35:43 Accessible Solutions in AI 39:03 Myth vs. Reality in AI 48:15 The Future of Work and AI 01:02:43 Navigating AI Frustrations and ExpectationsShow Notes & Links: https://www.spark6.com/podcast   Submit listener questions:  elijah@spark6.com kevin@ascendlabs.ai    Check out Kevin’s stuff: Ascend Labs: https://ascendlabs.ai/ Follow Kevin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinguywilliams/   Check out Eli’s Stuff: SPARK6 Agency: https://www.spark6.com/ Sign up for FREE AI Framework Friday Newsletter: https://www.spark6.com/newsletter Follow Elijah on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elijahszasz/

    1h 3m
  • 8 Episodes

About

AI at Work is hosted by Elijah Szasz (CEO of SPARK6) and Kevin Williams (CEO of Ascend Labs). Each week delivers actionable insights on how artificial intelligence is reshaping jobs today, and how you can use it to advance your career. We unpack real-world tools, automation workflows, and emerging roles so you can stop chasing hype and start using AI to get things done. Whether you’re an individual contributor, team lead, or business owner, we show you what to build, what to ask for, and what to look for in a workplace moving at machine-speed.

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  • Creator
    Elijah Szasz, Kevin Williams
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    8
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Elijah Szasz, Kevin Williams
  • Show Website
    AI at Work