Building a Better Geek

Emmanuella Grace & Craig Lawton
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Welcome to Building a Better Geek, where we explore the intersection of technology, psychology and well-being. For high-functioning introverts finding an audience - if you like humans at least as much as machines - if you want to go deep on leadership, communication and all the things that go into building you. Emmanuella Grace is a communication coach and consultant, working with individuals and organisations to develop and strengthen the skills of voice and communication. Craig is an experienced Technologist and Leader. Connect with us using the details below.

  1. 15H AGO

    TruthAmp: Episode 4

    Watch us on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TruthAmp-e1f **🎵 Listen to our hilariously bad AI jingle first:** https://www.udio.com/songs/2NQ68f3nBegurCT6TyyiQG?utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing In this episode of TruthAmp, Craig and Emmanuella dive deep into AI's impact on songwriting and the music industry. What starts with Craig's cringe-worthy AI-generated jingle (seriously, Emmanuella's ears were bleeding) evolves into a fascinating discussion about authenticity, artistry, and the future of music. ## Key Discussion Points: **The Velvet Sundown Controversy** - AI artist that fooled over a million Spotify listeners - The importance of honesty between artists and fans - Why deception breaks the fundamental trust that drives artistic success **Industry Legends Speak Out** - Nick Cave's brutal take: AI songwriting is "artistic demoralization" that erodes "the world's soul" - Bernard Fanning argues AI removes humanity from art, defeating its very purpose - The tension between artistic idealism and paying the bills **The Platform Problem** - Are streaming services flooding platforms with AI music to avoid paying royalties? - What happens when real artists start withdrawing their content? - Will we just get used to artificial music as background noise? **Technical Evolution** - How audio compression has already changed how we consume music - The irony of AI deliberately adding "authentic" imperfections - From auto-tune perfection back to intentional flaws ## The Bottom Line: While AI tools might help with arrangements and production, both hosts agree that music that truly moves people requires human vulnerability, effort, and soul. As Craig puts it: music needs humanity and effort, not just a 20-word prompt. **Their advice? Get out there and listen to live music. Support real artists. Go pat a cat.** What do you think? Can AI ever replicate the human experience that makes great songwriting? Let us know in the comments!

    17 min

  2. SEP 14

    TruthAmp: Episode 3

    Watch us on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TruthAmp-e1f This episode of TruthAmp features hosts Emmanuella and Craig discussing AI image generation, with Craig demonstrating through live examples. He shows AI-generated headshots of himself, first in a business suit that he found unsatisfactory, then requesting a "Silicon Valley chic" look that produced a casual sweatshirt and jeans appearance. Craig also creates a whimsical underwater version of their podcast promotional photo, placing both hosts in what appears to be the Great Barrier Reef while still wearing headphones. Emmanuella was initially intrigued by seeing AI-generated videos on social media that could create realistic footage from just one second of source material. The hosts explore how marketing and branding influence AI adoption, noting that catchy names like "nano banana" make advanced technology seem more accessible and less threatening. A key theme emerges around the importance of distinguishing between reality and AI-generated content. Emmanuella draws parallels to how society adapted to understanding Photoshopped magazine images, suggesting we need similar literacy for AI content. She emphasizes the responsibility to use careful language when discussing AI capabilities versus reality. Craig mentions Amazon's competing Nova Canvas tool, which includes IP protection and digital watermarking. The episode concludes with both hosts advocating for critical thinking about AI-generated content, with Craig describing AI as a "lossy encyclopedia" that loses fidelity over time.

    18 min

  3. SEP 10

    TruthAmp: Episode 2

    Watch us on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TruthAmp-e1f In this episode, Craig Lawton and Emmanuella Grace tackle the escalating crisis of AI fraud in job interviews, where deepfake candidates and sophisticated bots are creating what Gartner predicts will be 1 in 4 fraudulent job applications by 2028. The hosts explore shocking real-world cases, including "Ivan X" who applied twice to the same security firm using deepfakes, and a government official admitting to hiring someone who used AI to answer interview questions. They discuss how recruitment has become an "arms race" between fraud and detection, with both candidates and recruiters increasingly relying on AI tools. Emmanuella argues this may force a return to in-person interviews, where human intuition and emotional responses can detect the "coldness" of AI interactions. She emphasizes that interviews are fundamentally about cultural fit and human connection, not just qualifications. The conversation reveals how AI-generated communications often trigger subconscious disengagement in recipients. Paradoxically, both hosts advocate for transparent AI use in job searching—using it to tailor CVs and practice interviews while maintaining authenticity. They explore innovative HR technology that creates comprehensive "digital twins" of candidates, incorporating both technical skills and wellbeing factors. The episode concludes with optimism about human creativity and connection driving the future, suggesting that despite technological disruption, people's fundamental need to connect with other humans remains paramount.

    18 min

  4. SEP 8

    TruthAmp: Episode 1

    Watch us on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TruthAmp-e1f In the inaugural episode of Truth Amp, hosts Emmanuella Grace and Craig Lawton explore the human impact of AI developments, focusing on OpenAI's GPT-5 launch and concerning attachment behaviors. The discussion centers on why people form emotional bonds with AI systems, drawing parallels to the 1960s ELIZA program where users developed deep connections with a simple chatbot. Emmanuella explains this stems from human needs for connection and validation—our brains struggle to distinguish between human and machine responses when we feel "seen and heard." Key concerns include the risks of anthropomorphizing AI and losing essential human connection skills. The hosts discuss how AI's confident, absolute responses mask its fallibility, noting that it doesn't express uncertainty like humans do. They emphasize the importance of maintaining critical thinking skills as AI becomes more prevalent. Practical insights include treating AI like a "first-year assistant," preserving cognitive function by doing initial thinking before using AI assistance, and setting healthy boundaries around AI use. The episode concludes with warnings about the "soullessness" of AI-generated content and the subconscious human tendency to disengage from machine-generated communications, highlighting the irreplaceable value of authentic human spontaneity and connection.

    20 min

  5. JUL 7

    Know Your Worth: The Ultimate Guide to Getting Paid What You Deserve

    In this episode, hosts Em and Craig explore the concept of "knowing your value" in a rapidly changing workplace where traditional values are shifting due to technology, generational differences, and political influences. Key Discussion Points: Multiple Hats Phenomenon: Em introduces the concept of "wearing multiple hats" - where people, particularly women, often carry multiple roles simultaneously (manager, counselor, organizer, etc.) without recognition or appropriate compensation. She emphasizes the importance of articulating these various responsibilities to make them visible. Gender Differences in Self-Assessment: Em cites research showing the "male hubris, female humility effect," where men systematically overestimate their abilities while women underestimate theirs, despite equal measured intelligence. This impacts salary negotiations and career advancement. Value vs. Self-Worth: Craig emphasizes that understanding your value must start with recognizing your inherent self-worth as a human being, rather than beginning with monetary considerations. This foundational self-respect then informs how you communicate your professional value. Technology's Impact on Value: The hosts discuss how technological shifts (cloud computing, AI) can make established skills obsolete overnight, forcing workers to constantly reassess and adapt their value proposition. Negotiation Strategies: When pay raises aren't possible, they suggest alternative value-adds: Upskilling opportunities Professional development funding Networking event attendance Mentorship programs Lateral moves within the organization Communication Tactics: Craig shares insights from sales about listening first to understand problems before proposing solutions. They emphasize the importance of framing your value in terms of solving the organization's problems, not just listing your achievements. Five Love Languages in the Workplace: Em adapts Gary Chapman's concept to workplace appreciation: acts of service, words of affirmation, quality time, appropriate physical acknowledgment (handshakes), and gifts. Understanding how people prefer to receive recognition can transform workplace relationships. Market Research Importance: Both hosts stress the critical importance of researching your market value globally, not just locally, and understanding the broader context of your industry and role. Intent vs. Impact: They reference the "Difficult Conversations" framework, noting how understanding the difference between what people intend and the impact they have can resolve many workplace value conflicts. Practical Takeaways: Start negotiations by understanding the other party's problems Write down your goals and their needs to find creative solutions Consider taking breaks to gain perspective on your situation Build internal and external networks for realistic market assessment Practice difficult conversations before high-stakes moments Be aware of vocal patterns (upward inflection) that may undermine perceived competence Resource Recommendations: "Let Them Theory" by Mel Robbins (specifically the chapter on salary negotiation for women with male bosses) Vanessa Van Edwards' research on voice and body language Nick Cave's "Red Hand Files" email newsletter Market research through LinkedIn Jobs and industry networking

    45 min

  6. APR 14

    Truth Finding: How to know what’s true in an age of hyperrealistic tech

    In this thought-provoking episode, hosts Em and Craig tackle the complex concept of "truth finding" in the modern digital age, exploring how technology and AI have transformed our ability to discern fact from fiction. Key Discussion Points: Subjective vs. Objective Truth: The hosts explore the tension between objective facts and subjective perceptions of truth. Em notes that what was once considered "fact" (like the Earth being flat) can later be disproven, highlighting how truth evolves with knowledge. Empiricism vs. Theory: Craig identifies as an empiricist, focusing on observable outcomes rather than theoretical explanations, while Em prefers understanding the underlying mechanisms. They discuss how both approaches have value in truth-seeking. Technology's Impact on Truth: The hosts examine how AI, algorithms, and social media have created filter bubbles that shape and sometimes distort our perception of reality. Em references the "Amber Heard case" as an example of how online mob mentality and bots can manipulate public perception of truth. Trust Markers: Craig explains his process for finding trustworthy voices online, noting he looks for people who demonstrate curiosity, flexibility, accountability, and willingness to change their mind when facts change. They discuss how putting one's name to information adds accountability. Media Transformations: The discussion covers how traditional media with editorial standards is being replaced by faster, less rigorous social platforms, accelerating both information flow and misinformation. They note how careers and reputations can be destroyed almost instantly before the truth can be established. Human Connection: Em emphasizes that despite technological advances, the most valuable tool for truth-finding remains "robust, candid conversations between people that you trust," suggesting that human connection provides a level of critical inquiry that machines cannot. Biases and System Thinking: The hosts reference Daniel Kahneman's work on "fast" (intuitive) versus "slow" (analytical) thinking systems, discussing how being aware of our cognitive biases helps us better evaluate truth claims. Psychological Safety: Both hosts stress the importance of creating environments where people can safely question assumptions and explore ideas without fear of punishment, noting that punitive approaches to open inquiry can silence important truths. Resource Recommendations: "The Righteous Mind" by Jonathan Haidt "Thinking Fast and Slow" by Daniel Kahneman The therapeutic concept of questioning "Is this a fact? Is this true?" to interrupt emotional pattern responses Socratic questioning as a method for deeper inquiry

    44 min

  7. MAR 31

    Lost Network Connections: Intergenerational Communication And The Communication Chasm

    OK Boomer, OK Zoomer: hosts Em and Craig look at solving the Workplace Generation Puzzle, examining how different generational experiences shape values, communication styles, and workplace expectations. Key Discussion Points: Four Generations in the Workforce: Em explains that for the first time, we have four generations simultaneously in the workplace (Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z), each with different value systems and communication preferences, causing previously successful workplace programs to fail. Generational Overview: The hosts provide a historical context of generations: Silent Generation (1920s-1945): Conformist, compliant, strong work ethic Baby Boomers (1946-1964): Adapted to digital revolution, valued gift of gab Generation X (1965-1980): Independent, pragmatic, bridged analog-digital divide Millennials/Gen Y (1981-1996): Digital natives, collaborative Gen Z/iGen (1997-2010): Visual learners, social media natives Alpha Generation (2010-present): Future-focused, already emerging through social media Technological Evolution: Craig shares how Gen X witnessed tremendous technological changes, from analog television to digital media, and how this shapes communication preferences. Em notes how modern recording technology that once required expensive equipment is now available on smartphones. Communication Medium Preferences: The hosts discuss how different generations prefer different communication methods, with Gen Z often anxious about phone calls while older generations value them. Craig suggests younger people might stand out positively by calling rather than texting. Psychological Impacts: Em highlights the "spotlight effect" where teenagers feel all eyes are on them, but explains how social media has amplified this for younger generations by making this surveillance real and constant, contributing to mental health challenges. Generational Tensions: The hosts acknowledge the resentment between generations, with younger people frustrated about housing affordability, environmental issues, and economic challenges while older generations criticize work ethic and respect for authority. Finding Common Ground: Despite different expressions, all generations share fundamental human desires for validation, appreciation, respect, and belonging. Em emphasizes that finding this common humanity is essential for workplace harmony. Crisis as Unifier: Craig references "The Fourth Turning" by Neil Howe, noting how crises like World War II or the early COVID-19 pandemic forced people to come together across generational divides. Resource Recommendations: "Gen Intelligence: The Revolutionary Approach to Leading an Intergenerational Workforce" by Megan Gerhardt, Josephine Harm, and Jeanne Fogle "Conversations Between Generations" TED Talk by Vona Turla "Remarkable People" podcast by Guy Kawasaki, specifically the interview with David Yeager on "The Science of Motivating Young People" "Multi-Generational Workplace: The Insights You Need" from Harvard Business Review

    47 min

  8. MAR 24

    Overcoming Skill Issues: Are You Being Nice Or Kind?

    In this episode, hosts Em and Craig explore the important distinction between being "nice" versus being "kind" in workplace and personal interactions, examining how these approaches impact relationships and communication effectiveness. Key Discussion Points: Defining Nice vs. Kind: Em describes "nice" as bland, safer, and more palatable but potentially insincere, while "kind" involves honesty and authenticity that may sometimes be uncomfortable but ultimately serves others better. Toxic Positivity: The hosts discuss how workplace cultures that prioritize "nice" communication can evolve into toxic positivity, where difficult but necessary conversations get shut down because they aren't "nice," even when honesty would be the kindest approach. David Yeager's Matrix: Em shares insights from Yeager's book "10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People," which presents a matrix of leadership styles based on levels of support and standards: High standards + High support = Mentorship (ideal) High standards + Low support = Enforcer (potential bullying) Low standards + High support = Protector (undermines growth) Low standards + Low support = Apathetic (disengaged) Radical Candor/Honesty: Craig introduces the concept of "radical candor" as a communication approach that values honest feedback delivered with care. Em notes she practices this herself, establishing early in relationships that she'll be direct, which serves as a filter for compatibility. Feedback Role-Play: The hosts demonstrate effective feedback techniques through a role-play scenario where Em (as manager) addresses Craig's work attendance issues while maintaining psychological safety, showing curiosity rather than judgment, and focusing on objective observations. Building Psychological Safety: The conversation emphasizes how kindness creates psychological safety for difficult conversations, while "niceness" can mask festering problems that eventually surface in more damaging ways. Practice Makes Perfect: Em stresses the importance of practicing difficult conversations before high-stakes moments, suggesting people write down and rehearse boundary-setting phrases to build confidence. Key Takeaways: True kindness involves holding high standards while providing high support Psychological safety is essential for honest feedback Practice difficult conversations in low-stakes environments Leaders should model accountability by acknowledging their own mistakes The "nicest" approach isn't always the kindest one

    39 min
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About

Welcome to Building a Better Geek, where we explore the intersection of technology, psychology and well-being. For high-functioning introverts finding an audience - if you like humans at least as much as machines - if you want to go deep on leadership, communication and all the things that go into building you. Emmanuella Grace is a communication coach and consultant, working with individuals and organisations to develop and strengthen the skills of voice and communication. Craig is an experienced Technologist and Leader. Connect with us using the details below.

Information

  • Creator
    Emmanuella Grace & Craig Lawton
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    19
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2023-2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Building a Better Geek