The Human Code

Don Finley

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. -1 J

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

    Send a text In this conversation, the speaker 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
  2. The Human Aspect in AI: Shane Boudreau on Technology, Bias, and Investment

    17 FÉVR.

    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
  3. 10 FÉVR.

    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
  4. 18/06/2025

    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
  5. 04/06/2025

    Seth Yakatan Discusses Success Strategies in the Cannabis and Technology Sectors

    Send a text In this episode, Seth Yakatan shares insights from his extensive career at the crossroads of technology, health, and emerging markets. Seth recounts his early fascination with integrated technology and its impact on human health, emphasizing how advancements in health science since the mid-90s have transformed diagnostics. He transitions to his current focus on the burgeoning recreational cannabis market, detailing his efforts to Navigate the complexities of a multi-state regulated industry. Seth offers a candid look at his strategies for successful investments, his shift from life sciences to cannabis, and his commitment to leveraging technological platforms like LinkedIn for growth. He also sheds light on the importance of trust and the right service providers in making lucrative deals and provides valuable advice to entrepreneurs on under-promising and over-delivering. This episode is filled with valuable lessons on market dynamics, investment strategies, and the significance of a grounded, yet forward-thinking approach. Show Notes: 00:00 Introduction to Seth Akutan 01:04 Early Career and Technological Insights 03:50 Shift to the Cannabis Industry 07:44 Investment Strategies and Market Trends 10:46 The Role of LinkedIn and Personal Philosophy 20:51 Advice for Entrepreneurs 31:43 Reflections and Lessons Learned 38:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Hashtags: #CannabisIndustry #TechTrends #LifeSciences #Innovation #Investment #Startups #Entrepreneurship #CannabisBusiness #HealthTech #InvestmentStrategies #BusinessGrowth #MarketTrends #DisruptiveInnovation #CapitalMarkets #SuccessStories Sponsored by FINdustries Hosted by Don Finley

    39 min
  6. 28/05/2025

    Sebastian Dienst on Inner and Outer Technologies in the Era of Global Transformation

    Send a text In this episode, we sit down with Sebastian Dienst, founder of Advance Coaching, to explore his unique approach that blends two decades of startup experience with deep mind-body wisdom. Sebastian helps founders and leaders unlock their full potential through both outer and inner technologies, tackling roadblocks, limiting beliefs, and buried emotional patterns that impact their businesses. We discuss the integration of AI in self-help, the importance of being a conscious leader, and the global transformations facing humanity. Sebastian shares insights from his upcoming book about humanity's phase shift, drawing parallels with the metamorphosis of a caterpillar to a butterfly, and stresses the need for both individual and systemic transformation. Show Notes: 00:00 Introduction to Sebastian and His Work 01:09 Sebastian's Journey: From Technology to Inner Work 03:06 The Intersection of Inner and Outer Technologies 04:15 Challenges and Breakthroughs in Entrepreneurship 08:38 The Role of AI and Technology in Inner Work 15:55 Humanity's Transformation: The Butterfly Metaphor 21:50 Navigating Change and Finding Inner Peace 25:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Hashtags: #Transformation #Leadership #InnerWork #AI #Entrepreneurship #StartupLife #Mindfulness #ConsciousLeadership #SelfHelp #PersonalGrowth #Technology #HumanPotential #Innovation #Coaching #FutureOfWork Sponsored by FINdustries Hosted by Don Finley

    28 min
  7. 21/05/2025

    Chris Joyce on Building 24 Companies and the Philosophy of Never Giving Up

    Send a text In this insightful conversation, Don and Chris Joyce, delve into the seamless integration of humanity and technology in today's business world. Chris shares his journey and philosophies developed over his career as an entrepreneur, having started 24 companies. They discuss the evolving venture capital landscape, the importance of incorporating humanity into tech solutions, and leveraging AI tools for efficiency. Chris also introduces Gusher, a platform that helps entrepreneurs launch their companies without initial capital by leveraging performance-based equity. The episode highlights the values of honesty, tenacity, and never giving up as key attributes for successful entrepreneurship. Sow Notes: 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:13 The Intersection of Humanity and Technology 01:31 Evolution of Building Tech Companies 02:04 The Importance of Humanity in Tech Solutions 03:24 Adoption and Limitations of AI 06:11 Personal Uses of AI 07:36 Agentic AI and Task-Based Coaching 10:45 Gusher: Helping Entrepreneurs Succeed 13:50 The Role of Business Plans 16:49 Founder's Responsibilities and Sales 19:13 Gusher's Unique Approach and Success Metrics 26:24 Advice for Entrepreneurs 29:22 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Hashtags: #Entrepreneurship #Technology #AI #Innovation #TechEntrepreneurs #HumanityAndTech #VentureCapital #BusinessGrowth #Startups #Founders #SmallBusiness #TechIndustry #BusinessPlans #SuccessStories #Gusher #AIinBusiness #FutureOfWork #Leadership #StartupSuccess #BusinessAdvice Sponsored by FINdustries Hosted by Don Finley

    30 min

À propos

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.