The Human Code

Don Finley
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The Human Code" podcast unravels the intricate blend of technology, leadership, and personal growth, featuring insights from visionary leaders and innovators shaping the future. Host Don Finley dives deep into the human stories behind technological advancements, inspiring listeners at the crossroads of humanity and tech.

  1. 1D AGO

    The Intersection of Humanity and AI: Reskilling, Productivity, and the Future of Work | Feat. Arturo Oliver

    Send a text In this engaging conversation, Don sits down with his friend Arturo Oliver, who has a 30-year career in analytics, AI, and automation. Arturo shares what sparked his interest in the intersection of humanity and technology from an early age, growing up in Mexico, reading tech magazines, and falling in love with computers like the Commodore 64 and Apple II. The discussion explores the current state of artificial intelligence (AI) and the shift it will bring to professional and personal lives. Arturo believes this wave of AI will have the greatest impact in 50 years, driving major productivity growth. Key takeaways include: The Impact of AI: A McKinsey study projects that by 2030, 12 million US jobs could be eliminated by AI. The Need for Reskilling: Individuals must focus on becoming more valuable by enhancing their skills. Essential Skills: Humans will continue to excel in relationships, strategy, and creativity. Universities’ Role: Institutions should embrace AI and help students build skills, rather than just preventing misuse. Arturo stresses that individuals must take an active role in reskilling to benefit from new technology. Table of Contents: I. Introduction and Early Passion for Technology 00:38 - Don introduces Arturo. 00:46 - Arturo explains his early interest in technology. 01:08 - He recalls growing up in Mexico, reading magazines, and discovering early computers. 01:43 - He quickly learned programming from a beginner’s book. II. The Current State and Impact of AI 04:46 - Conversation shifts to AI’s impact. 06:18 - Arturo reflects on his 30-year career and AI-driven productivity gains. III. Reskilling, Job Displacement, and Essential Skills 10:19 - McKinsey projects 12 million US jobs lost by 2030. 10:47 - New roles will require different skills. 10:57 - Individuals must actively improve their value. 17:08 - Arturo suggests evaluating how AI can enhance daily work. IV. Universities and the Future 19:34 - Universities must rethink their approach to AI. 19:40 - Focus should shift to skill-building, not just preventing cheating. 20:46 - Institutions should guide society and teach best practices. 25:58 - Arturo highlights AI’s environmental costs, including energy and water use. Sponsored by FINdustries Hosted by Don Finley

    29 min
  2. Probabilistic Thinking and High-Quality Decision Making

    MAR 10

    Probabilistic Thinking and High-Quality Decision Making

    Send a text Join us as we explore high-quality decision-making in business and life with Richard Arnold. This conversation highlights the difference between deterministic thinking and the power of a probabilistic, stochastic approach. Richard shares insights from cognitive psychology and decision analysis, explaining why the human brain struggles with probabilities, why framing matters, and why decisions should be probabilistic rather than deterministic. Instead of asking “What do I do tomorrow?” he suggests building a long-term view to explore possible outcomes. He also explains depositioning, anchoring, and how AI—being inherently probabilistic—challenges human deterministic thinking. We cover a practical framework for better decisions: clarifying objectives, defining constraints, gathering data, and generating options. Richard also shares case studies including the Monty Hall problem and a real-time decision system used in global hotel revenue management. Table of Contents I. Decision-Making: Probabilistic vs. Deterministic Thinking The Problem with Human Probability (00:00–00:05, 33:21–33:30): Humans are naturally poor at understanding probabilities and must learn structured reasoning.The Academic and Applied Background (01:15–02:22): Decision analysis grew from cognitive psychology, using quantitative tools and multi-scenario modeling.II. The Framework for High-Quality Decision Making Framing the Question (00:07–00:17, 05:51–06:07): Since framing happens automatically, it must be done consciously and correctly.Depositioning (07:14–07:58): Step back from the initial idea to redefine the real decision.III. Case Studies on Applying the Framework Mouse Pads and Marketing Spend (10:51–13:08): A marketing decision analyzed using probability estimates.From Christmas Cards to Customer Success (13:50–17:18): Rethinking holiday cards led to a structured customer-success practice that scaled globally.IV. The Pitfalls of Deterministic Thinking The Monty Hall Problem (27:30–29:15): People stick to initial choices despite changing probabilities.Anchoring (30:20–32:00): Arbitrary numbers heavily influence judgment, as shown in a temperature experiment.V. The Rise of AI and Stochastic Systems AI and Probabilities (19:19–20:07): AI operates probabilistically, replacing deterministic human systems.Stochastic Agent Example (20:07–20:16): Unlike humans who repeat exact answers, stochastic systems may produce varied outputs.Sponsored by FINdustries Hosted by Don Finley

    36 min
  3. Dr. Kirk Adams: The Intersection of Humanity and Technology for the Visually Impaired

    MAR 3

    Dr. Kirk Adams: The Intersection of Humanity and Technology for the Visually Impaired

    Send a text Focusing on Technology and Inclusion Join us for a fascinating conversation with Dr. Kirk Adams as he discusses the powerful intersection of humanity and technology, particularly for the visually impaired. Dr. Adams, who became totally blind quickly in kindergarten, shares his journey, beginning with his first electronic reading system, the Opticon, in 1968. Dr. Adams explores how technology allows people with visual impairments to "customize the fit with the world" and move from disabling situations to environments where they are not disabled. We dive into the future, discussing the promise of Agentic AI for increasing autonomy and privacy in daily tasks like paying bills and filling out medical forms. We also tackle the critical risks of bias in AI systems, noting that the lived experiences of people with disabilities are currently underrepresented in the data that undergirds AI tools. Dr. Adams emphasizes the urgent need to address the disability employment gap—only 35% of people with significant disabilities are in the U.S. workforce, compared to 70% of the general population. He provides actionable advice on how everyone can engage with and support a more inclusive world.   Connect with Dr. Kirk Adams: Website: drkirkadams.com LinkedIn: Linkedinlinkedin.com/in/kirkadamsphd Table of Content I. Introduction & Personal Story 0:00 Dr. Kirk Adams' Story: Loss of Sight in Kindergarten and Starting with Technology0:12 Defining Impairment vs. Disability: Technology Customizes the Fit with the World2:05 Dr. Adams' First Electronic Reading System: The Opticon (1968)2:46 Using the Mini-Guide, an Early Sonar-Type Wayfinding Device3:55 Example: Braille Materials Prevent a Disabling Situation in a Board Meeting4:38 The Exponential Acceleration of Technology and Different Symbol Systems (Braille vs. Print)II. The Promise and Risks of AI 6:18 The Future of AI: Benefits and Risks for People with Disabilities7:16 Excitement over Independent Transportation and Autonomous Vehicles8:18 Current Tech: Image Description with Meta Ray-Ban Glasses and Open Source Apps9:17 The Next Big Leap: Agentic AI for Increased Autonomy, Support, and Privacy14:13 The Risk of AI Bias: Stereotypical Career Suggestions (Massage Therapist, Musician)15:39 The Root Cause of Bias: Underrepresentation of Disabled Persons' Lived Experience in Data16:27 Combating Bias: The Be My Eyes and Be My AI Data Set InitiativeIII. Employment and Overcoming Misperceptions 19:46 Hurdles to Overcome: Attitudes, Misperceptions, and Misconceptions20:29 Addressing the Disability Employment Gap (Only 35% of people with significant disabilities are in the U.S. workforce)21:18 Unique Strengths Developed by People with Disabilities (Resilience, Creative Problem Solving)22:32 The Apex Program: Training Blind People for Cyber Security Jobs26:06 Recommendation: The First Step to Inclusion—Connect and Engage with Disability OrganizationsIV. Conclusion 29:16 Where to Find Dr. Kirk Adams (Website and LinkedIn)29:39 Dr. Adams' Ethnographic Study on Blind Adults in American CorporationsSponsored by FINdustries Hosted by Don Finley

    31 min

  4. FEB 24

    Robots Aren't Coming for Your Jobs, They're Coming for Theirs | Automating the Work of Robots

    Send a text In this conversation, the host, Don Finley, and Mateo Stroll explore the intersection of humanity and technology, focusing on AI’s real value. Stroll shares his view: “Robots aren’t coming for your jobs, they’re coming for theirs. We must stop doing the work of robots.” They compare AI to 1980s auto-industry automation, which didn’t replace people but scaled output, reduced errors, and improved quality. The discussion outlines three practical uses of AI: organizing, scaling, and accelerating human interactions. An airline example shows how automating patching freed system administrators to focus on higher-level problem-solving. Stroll also offers a critical view of popular generative AI tools like ChatGPT, describing them as polished interfaces layered over search. He advises executives to hire experts to define processes and target quick wins instead of attempting massive, unfocused transformation efforts. Table of Contents I. The Intersection of Humanity, Technology, and Automation  Humans vs. Robots (00:00–00:13, 12:12–12:18): Humans excel at problem-solving but make errors; robots are “coming for theirs,” and humans must stop doing robotic work.  Automation in the Auto Industry (00:13–00:33, 12:20–12:48): 1980s automation scaled work, reduced mistakes, and improved vehicle quality without destroying jobs.  AI as the Socratic Method (04:14–04:27): AI can act as a reflection tool, asking questions to draw out user insight. II. The Current State and Value of AI  The Problem with Current AI (05:10–05:40): Popular generative interfaces can produce lowest-common-denominator responses due to scale and access.  True Power of AI (06:03–06:17): AI’s long-term value is practical and operational, not media-driven. III. Business Process and AI Implementation  Prerequisite for Automation (08:17–08:24): Processes must be documented before scaling or automating.  Calculating Value (08:51–09:21): Identify human tasks, automate where possible, and measure time saved.  The Disconnect (22:11–22:22): Change fails when business problems aren’t clearly tied to solutions and frontline value. IV. AI for Programming and Development (22:53–24:49)  Code Quality (22:56–24:16): AI can validate code, scan for vulnerabilities, and scale testing before deployment.  Finding Hidden Issues (24:31–24:49): AI analyzes logs to uncover unseen problems and unused paths. V. The Problem with NLP Standardization (25:27–28:53)  Lack of Standardization (25:27–25:33): NLP lacks common standards across libraries.  Complex Queries (26:36–27:08): Current AI struggles with contextual, multi-step calculations. VI. Recommendations for AI Adoption (29:14–31:04)  Define the Problem First (29:37–29:42): Clearly define the problem before choosing tools.  Hire Experts (29:52–30:31): Use experienced product or process leaders to guide adoption.  Executive Mindset (30:54–31:04): Leaders must accept discomfort, define value metrics, and align AI with real business processes. Sponsored by FINdustries Hosted by Don Finley

    32 min
  5. The Human Aspect in AI: Shane Boudreau on Technology, Bias, and Investment

    FEB 17

    The Human Aspect in AI: Shane Boudreau on Technology, Bias, and Investment

    Send a text In this episode, Don speaks with Shane Boudreau about the intersection of humanity and technology, emphasizing the critical role of the "human aspect" in AI and algorithms. Shane argues that AI is "only as good as the inputs" and won’t take over, but the right person must be running the program because "lives are at stake." They discuss the risks of biased or corrupted data and how incorrect inputs can seriously disrupt people’s lives. While machine learning and predictive analysis aim to remove human bias, Shane notes that some level of human judgment and "compassion" is still necessary due to cultural differences. He shares examples, including an instance where ChatGPT cheated at chess and how the Chinese model DeepSeek showed political and historical bias when asked about Tiananmen Square. For investors and entrepreneurs, Shane stresses that success depends on how well a product helps customers "get what they want." He encourages founders to validate their go-to-market strategy by picking up the phone and speaking directly with potential customers, securing an LOI—preferably with a "wet signature"—as proof of real commitment. From an investment perspective, he focuses on the people behind the technology, not just the technology itself, and will avoid or restructure deals if the parties are not right. The conversation also highlights emotional factors in the stock market, such as fear, that quant algorithms often miss, and warns against making decisions based solely on headlines. Key Topics Covered: The essential nature of the "human aspect" in AI. The dangers of biased inputs and corrupted code. The need to reduce human bias in technology development. The role of human emotion in algorithms and the stock market. Investment philosophy: focusing on people and customer value. Validating go-to-market strategy through calls and LOIs. Advice for entrepreneurs: do your homework and improve customers' lives.Table of Content Introduction: The Human Aspect in AI 0:00 - AI is "only as good as the inputs." 0:11 - The right person must run the program because "lives are at stake."0:38 - Customers care about how a product helps them "get what they want."0:47 - Don introduces Shane Boudreau.Bias and Corruption in Technology 1:14 - AI becomes biased based on its data and programmers.1:51 - Remove human bias in development, but keep some compassion due to cultural differences.4:09 - Examples of AI cheating (ChatGPT) and political/historical bias (DeepSeek).5:49 - Investments focus on the people behind the tech, not just the tech.The Emotional Factor in Trading and Investing 9:15 - Early quant models missed the market’s "fear factor."10:33 - Traders react to headlines more than full articles.11:51 - The VIX represents the market’s "fear factor."12:13 - Retail investors can’t match high-frequency trading speed.Advice for Entrepreneurs: Value and Validation 17:38 - Risk of building something great that no one sees.19:43 - Validate go-to-market by calling customers and securing an LOI.23:01 - A "wet signature" LOI shows real commitment.25:06 - Invest in real value, not hype like perception-driven NFTs.28:47 - Final advice: do your homework and build to improve customers’ lives.Sponsored by FINdustries Hosted by Don Finley

    33 min

  6. FEB 10

    The Dopamine Rush of Solving Problems: A Career in Technology.

    Send a text Generative AI is not just disruptive—it’s "bigger than the internet". In this critical conversation, Joseph Marise, Tech Champion at Confluent, argues that the industry is rapidly dividing into two groups: those embracing AI and those who will be "smoked" by it. We discuss the urgency for every professional to embrace being uncomfortable and constantly evolving. AI is coming to take away the "less interesting bits," freeing up humans to focus on their true superpowers: creativity, strategy, and holistic thinking. In this episode, we cover: The radical speed of technological change, from the NES to modern cellular devices.How the AI workforce will change human resources, collaboration, and even hiring processes.A stunning hiring story where a candidate completed a four-hour project in two hours using AI, demonstrating a 100x productivity gain.The unique position of data streaming technologies (Kafka/Flink) in solving the "new data problem" created by the need for high-quality, real-time data for Gen AI agents.Join us to understand why Gen AI is the most crucial pivot yet, and how you can position yourself to be the "overlord" guiding your AI "minions" toward strategic, creative output. Table of contents for the episode: 01. Introduction: Humanity, Technology, and Joseph Marise 02. The Origin of the "Click" and Dopamine Reward 01:24 The NES and the gift of the first computer01:57 Fixing Bloodnet by reading the MS-DOS manual and reconfiguring autoexc.bat02:38 The desire for the "click" and the dopamine reward of problem-solving03. Early Career and the Fascination with Networking 03:07 Accessing the internet through bulletin boards and gopher03:27 Studying Information Systems and Technology to find more clicking moments03:44 Starting with desktop support and evolving to server orientation04. The Career Pivot Philosophy: When Comfort Signals Change 04:19 A career defined by pivots due to constant new technology04:53 Moving from network engineering to SAN administration at Urban Outfitters05:33 Recognizing the trend and pivoting to containerization and Docker05. Finding the Superpower: Communication and Evangelization 05:55 The realization that being personable and explaining technology was a strength06:41 First client-facing role as a Technical Account Manager at AWS07:47 The biggest career "click": Technical Solutions Architecture at Confluent08:14 Transitioning to Tech Champion: Evangelizing the "wrenches"06. The Generative AI (Gen AI) Disruption and the Urgency to Pivot 10:41 The signal to look for a new role is hitting a level of comfort with no surprises11:00 Knowing what to pivot toward: industry trends and personal interest13:29 Seeing the parallel between virtualization (VMware) and containerization (Docker)17:21 Gen AI is a crucial pivot, potentially bigger than the internet07. The Two Types of People in the Age of AI 17:55 You are either embracing AI or getting "smoked" by people who are using it18:43 The challenge of candidates faking expertise using Gen AI20:12 A candidate completes a four-hour project in two hours using AI (100x productivity)08. The True Role of AI: Freeing Human Superpowers Sponsored by FINdustries Hosted by Don Finley

    34 min

  7. 06/18/2025

    Gary Jonas on Having a Technology and Abundance Mindset in Real Estate

    Send a text In this episode, Don interviews Gary Jonas, CEO The HOW Group, about his integration of technology and an abundance mindset into both his personal and professional life. Gary shares his path to blending humanity with advancing tech, driven by his desire to instill optimism and opportunity in his children. They discuss the transformative impact of joining the GoBundance group, which emphasizes personal growth and societal contributions. Gary delves into the implementation of AI in his property management company, highlighting the benefits of operational efficiency and scalability. The conversation also covers Gary’s insights on balancing persistence with knowing when to quit, using technology for health and fitness improvements, and fostering creativity and emotional intelligence in his daughters. Show Notes: 00:00 Introduction to Gary Jonas and His Vision 01:00 Gary's Journey and Mindset 03:56 Implementing AI in Property Management 06:57 Personal Impact of Technology 21:39 Balancing Grit and Knowing When to Quit 23:38 Raising Emotionally Intelligent Daughters 29:10 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Hashtags: #PodcastEpisode #TechnologyAndHumanity #AI #Entrepreneurship #RealEstateDevelopment #BusinessGrowth #Innovation #EmotionalIntelligence #PersonalDevelopment #Leadership #TechInBusiness #DataDriven #SmartInvesting #Creativity #BusinessMindset Sponsored by FINdustries Hosted by Don Finley

    30 min

  8. 06/11/2025

    Bob Norton on Managing Innovation, Marketing, and AI in a Business

    Send a text In this episode, the host engages in an insightful conversation with Bob Norton about the intersection of technology and humanity. They delve into the importance of understanding psychology for effective management and leadership, the impact of AI on productivity, and the adoption and potential of generative AI tools like ChatGPT. Bob shares his extensive background in technology and entrepreneurship, highlighting the significance of niche markets for startups and the need for ongoing innovation and marketing. The discussion also covers the current state and future direction of AI, the challenges of organizational change, and the importance of combining training, coaching, and consulting for successful AI implementation. Show Notes: 00:00 Introduction to Bob Norton 01:06 The Intersection of Humanity and Technology 04:09 Bob Norton's Career Journey 06:19 The Importance of Differentiation and Innovation 10:56 Navigating the AI Landscape 14:10 The Role of Context in AI 21:23 The Future of AI in Business 29:53 Closing Thoughts and Advice Hashtags: #AI #ArtificialIntelligence #Leadership #Innovation #Productivity #Technology #GenerativeAI #AIInnovation #BusinessGrowth #TechTalk #Entrepreneurship #AIIndustry #FutureOfWork #TechLeadership #AIAdoption #BusinessStrategy #Management #AIApplications #TechInnovation #AITrends Sponsored by FINdustries Hosted by Don Finley

    34 min
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About

The Human Code" podcast unravels the intricate blend of technology, leadership, and personal growth, featuring insights from visionary leaders and innovators shaping the future. Host Don Finley dives deep into the human stories behind technological advancements, inspiring listeners at the crossroads of humanity and tech.

Information

  • Creator
    Don Finley
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    83
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Human Code
  • Show Website
    The Human Code