Artificial Intelligence: Real Talk

Eli Davis
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  • TECHNOLOGY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Eli Davis, a special educator, teacher leader, and Ph.D. candidate, hosts discussions on the transformative power of AI in education. Bringing together a variety of voices who are doing the work in classrooms, you'll hear how AI can be a thought partner rather than a crutch and gain insights on navigating bias and leveraging AI to improve outcomes for all.

  1. 6D AGO

    AI, Privacy, and Governance with Peter Gregory

    In this episode, Jethro sits down with Peter, author of the upcoming "AI Governance Professional Study Guide," to explore the complex intersection of artificial intelligence, privacy, and governance—especially in the context of education. They discuss the challenges of managing student data, the importance of anonymization, the ethical dilemmas posed by AI training, and the evolving role of educators in an AI-driven world. The conversation offers practical insights for schools and organizations navigating the opportunities and risks of adopting AI technologies.

    44 min

  2. 08/09/2025

    Practical AI with Derek Crager

    In this episode, Jethro interviews Derek "DC" Crager, a passionate advocate for making artificial intelligence accessible, especially for the neurodiverse community. DC shares his personal experiences as an autistic individual and discusses how AI can empower people with autism, ADHD, and dyslexia to enhance their skills and independence. The conversation explores the unique challenges neurodiverse individuals face, the importance of supportive AI interfaces, and how technology can provide cognitive equity and a patient, understanding companion. DC also explains his work with Practical AI and AI for Autistics, offering insights into building inclusive tools and communities that help neurodiverse people thrive in education and employment. The episode highlights the transformative potential of AI as both a mentor and a bridge for communication, learning, and self-advocacy. Neurodiverse vs. neurotypicalAI gives “us” someone to talk toVoice interface to be a patient anthropomorphic voiceSpeak with ourselves Those of us with ADHD are either at 50,000 feet or deep in the weedsCognitive Equity is what AI enables for people with disabilities to have a voice when they didn’t beforeGenius Within - spikey profileLack of control over the words can be seen as ignorance or stupidityHow to make sure that the AI is helpful and context awareGuardrails on the AI - for example, as a subject matter expertNavigating the community and context instead of just GPS navigating vs. talking on the phone navigatingAnyplace that a human can be offering mentorship1:1 virtual mentor:student relationshipConversationally know and communicate about studentsReach out to DC about free resources About the guest: Derek “DC” Crager, a passionate advocate for making artificial intelligence approachable and accessible, particularly for individuals within the neurodiverse community. As someone who is autistic, Derek has dedicated himself to fostering a supportive environment where people with autism, ADHD, and dyslexia can leverage AI to enhance their skills and income. Through his work at Practical AI, he emphasizes clarity and support, ensuring that users can navigate AI without being overwhelmed by its complexities. Derek has also achieved notable success in his career, having developed Amazon's top-rated employee training program, which focuses on simplifying complex concepts for better understanding and application. His community, now boasting over 6,060 members, thrives on the principles of shared learning and earning, making it a valuable resource for educators and leaders alike. He is poised to share insights drawn from his journey and the impactful initiatives at Practical AI, promising to engage and inspire any audience.

    27 min

  3. 07/26/2025

    The Art of AI Conversation with Jonathan Mast

    In this episode, host Eli interviews Jonathan Mast, a leading expert in AI prompting. Jonathan shares his journey into AI, starting with the advent of ChatGPT, and discusses the importance of utilizing AI tools like ChatGPT, MidJourney, Claude, and Perplexity for business growth. He introduces a simple four-step AI prompt framework and emphasizes the need for iterative communication to get the most out of AI. Jonathan also addresses misconceptions about AI's complexity and its ethical considerations, advocating for its integration in education and other fields. The episode concludes with Jonathan providing insights into leveraging AI for deep research and practical applications.

    16 min

  4. 07/12/2025

    Ethics and Higher Education with Dr. Jonan Donaldson

    In this episode,  Eli Davis engages Dr. Jonan Donaldson in a deep and thoughtful discussion on the intersection of AI, ethics, and education. Dr. Donaldson, an assistant professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, shares his views on how AI can augment human intelligence and transform learning. Topics covered include generative AI, complex systems, the importance of critical thinking, and the ethical responsibilities of educators in integrating AI into their classrooms.

    38 min

  5. 06/28/2025

    Bridging the AI Gap with Zach Kinzler

    In this episode, Eli Davis talks with Zach Kinzler, an AI educator and advocate. They discuss Kinzler's background, his work in integrating AI into education, and his experiences working with students globally, including in Africa. Kinzler shares insights into AI trends, misconceptions, and the importance of AI literacy. Additionally, the episode touches on the Smarter Campus Podcast, Bootle Box, and practical tips for those in engineering looking to leverage AI.

    29 min

  6. 06/14/2025

    The Evolution of Conversational AI with Peter Swimm

    In this episode, Eli Davis speaks with Peter Swimm, a conversational AI technologist. Peter, the founder of Toilville, LLC, discusses his work in designing AI tools, the balance between automation and human touch, ethics in AI development, and shares his thoughts on the integration of AI in various industries. They also explore the cultural impacts of AI and its potential for creating accessible technology.

    32 min

  7. 05/24/2025

    The Two-Hour Learning Model with McKenzie Price

    In this episode of Artificial Intelligence, Real Talk (AI with Eli), host Eli Davis sits down with McKenzie Price, Stanford grad, mom of two, and co-founder of the Two Hour Learning platform. McKenzie shares her journey in transforming education through AI-driven, personalized learning, and discusses the impact of life skills, socioeconomic challenges, and innovative teaching methods. The conversation covers the future of education, the role of teachers, and how AI can help unlock every child’s potential. Key Topics: McKenzie’s background and the founding of Two Hour LearningThe two-hour learning model and its academic resultsIntegrating life skills and AI in the classroomPersonalized learning for diverse student needsAddressing socioeconomic barriers and global impactInnovative teaching methods and real-world examplesThe evolving role of teachers and the promise of AI in educationGuest:McKenzie Price, Co-founder of Two Hour Learning, education innovator, and advocate for personalized, AI-powered learning. (00:00) - AIRT - McKenzie Price (05:46) - Meet McKenzie Price: Revolutionizing Education (08:05) - The Two-Hour Learning Model (09:48) - Life Skills and AI Integration (12:19) - Personalized Learning and Diverse Needs (14:22) - Addressing Socioeconomic Challenges (16:08) - Global Impact and Future Vision (21:32) - Innovative Teaching Methods (25:40) - The Role of AI in Education (29:06) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    30 min

  8. 04/26/2025

    Using AI Layering to Create Hyper-Localized Curriculum with Brent Zirkel

    In this episode, Jethro Jones interviews Brent Zirkel, an elementary principal at Mary Welsh Elementary in Williamsburg, Iowa. They discuss how Brent is utilizing AI to create curriculum, making learning more engaging and transparent for both students and parents. Brent shares his experiences, challenges, and successes in integrating AI with education, including building websites, creating learning activities, and more. They also explore the importance of localized curriculum and the role of educators in the age of AI. Importance of curriculum being transparentMaking sure parents know exactly what we are teaching. Web sites for classroom. If you put yourself out there in the public, it motivates you to create more and better things. https://Raidersocialstudies.com AI makes it easier to organize your thoughts and put it in a systemic way. 80/20 in work usage. Middle East UnitGives kids deeper ways to understand what is going on in the world. Not getting kids to understand facts and dates. Helping kids understand and perceive the world and make judgments. American values and patriotism are very important to our community. When you arm teachers with good curriculum you can have good discussions. Greater freedom in the discussion point because it is a discussion, not a “lesson”. Layering with AI - Using multiple technologies that wouldn’t be possible with just one AI. AI Tools used: Suno (music), ChatGPT (art & more), MagicSchool (make it relevant), SchoolAI, assessmentsAI Tools are thought partners. How to be a transformative principal? Good Better Best, Never Let it rest till your good is better and your better is your best.  About Brent Zirkel: Brent Zirkel is currently the Elementary Principal at Mary Welsh Elementary in Williamsburg, Iowa, a school of about 650 students.  He also serves as the district ELL Director, Migratory Education Program Director, and Preschool Program Director. Brent has previously served as the Associate Principal at Williamsburg Jr/Sr. High School (7-12) and Fort Madison Middle School (4-8).  Brent taught Spanish at Fort Madison High School for 12 years where he was honored for 5 consecutive years with the Terry Branstad Inspiring Teacher Award for serving as a motivational force to some of Iowa’s top-performing high school students. He has a BA in Geography and Spanish Education, an MS in Interdisciplinary Studies with an emphasis in Bilingual Education (ELL), and is certified as a Pre-K-12 Administrator and Special Education Supervisor. Brent is also a co-founder of the Test Kitchen Educational Foundation: a non-profit organization that creates innovative after-school programming for rural communities in Iowa by getting youth excited about learning through engagement in academics, culinary arts, and valuable life skills.   Brent is married to Michelle, a K-6 Media Teacher, and has two children, Brevin (16) and Bram (10). Brent enjoys spending time with his family. He is an avid fan of Survivor, the TV show, and is a true believer in progress through struggle. Brent sees education as the greatest opportunity to build a better tomorrow by positively impacting the lives of his students today.

    35 min
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Eli Davis, a special educator, teacher leader, and Ph.D. candidate, hosts discussions on the transformative power of AI in education. Bringing together a variety of voices who are doing the work in classrooms, you'll hear how AI can be a thought partner rather than a crutch and gain insights on navigating bias and leveraging AI to improve outcomes for all.

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