Bot Sh!t Crazy: Recent Episodes

Zachary

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In this episode I cover the second section of the new executive order on AI released by the Biden Administration. This gets particularly interesting as this section covers how government agencies will utilize AI and how the executive branch will enforce and oversee that usage...or not. Spoiler alert: your data is still probably not safe.

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In this episode, I break down the recent executive order issued by the Biden Administration regarding the safe development, deployment, and use of AI systems. The EO actually covers way too many things to go through in great detail, let alone in one episode. In this episode, I will discuss and dive into only the first main section of the EO. While I'll be using the fact sheet - basically the Cliffs Notes version - you can find that or the full EO at the White House website:

https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/10/30/fact-sheet-president-biden-issues-executive-order-on-safe-secure-and-trustworthy-artificial-intelligence/

https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2023/10/30/executive-order-on-the-safe-secure-and-trustworthy-development-and-use-of-artificial-intelligence/

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In this episode I dive into whether or not election cycles are affecting how people are spending in general, but specifically how they are purchasing capital equipment. There's a little bit of not-so-useful science in there, but also a lot of experience and observable data. It's short and sweet!

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In this episode I discuss the basics behind mental fitness as well as defining the two key aspects of it. This is foundational to forming a good starting point and knowing just what it is I'm going to be talking about. While it might seem obvious, I suggest you don't skip this episode. It will be vital to understanding everything else going forward. 

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In this episode I discuss whether robots and automation are truly taking peoples' jobs. The short answer is probably pretty obvious, but I share some actual data that highlights how we can misinterpret how many jobs are actually being replaced, while still noting a need to define what it means to be "replaced". 

Sources:

https://news.byu.edu/intellect/robots-are-taking-over-jobs-but-not-at-the-rate-you-might-think-says-byu-research?0000016b-9611-db18-a16f-971de1d00000-page=2

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/23780231221131377

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In this episode I explain the history behind Mental Fitness Friday, revealing some of my own struggles with anxiety and depression along the way. This is the kick-off episode to a series that will be going over topics involved in mental fitness, both at work and in your personal life. I think you will find that the two aren't really very different at all. 

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It's a tough decision to make. It can also seem terribly counter-intuitive. That said, there comes a time when nearly everyone must fire a customer. Whether it's a simple reason like the fact that they are just plain costing you money, or something less tangible like how much of a drain they are on you and your people. Either way, I will discuss the whys, whens, and hows, of firing a customer, as well as getting into some reasons why you might need to address this issue with a customer who is profitable. 

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In this episode I discuss how to create a long term automation strategy. Unsurprisingly, I go on a bit of rant about clinging too tightly to one brand, standardization, and owing your vendors more than they owe you. But, I make sure you get the info you need to create a long term strategy using basic concepts and not tedious details. Trigger warning for anyone who has standardized on one brand.

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In this episode I sit down with Josh Horton from Nova Automation. Aside from Josh's fascinating professional journey, we discuss how Bud Lite's marketing team failed their own brand, the Haunting of the Denver Airport, how Tom Hanks is apparently a Reddit conspiracy all by himself, and how I managed to step between dimensions through a bathroom in a Chicago bar. 

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In this episode, I discuss whether or not the economy is really slowing down all the much, what that might be in terms of it being a good time to automate, and why you might consider a slowdown an opportunity. 

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In this episode, Brad and I discuss reviving the podcast, as well as getting into some of our normal conspiracy theory discussion. We also discuss the Ocean Gate, whether there should be only ONE programming language in automation, and how James Cameron is raising the bar. More general shenaniganry for your listening pleasure!

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Dave and I talk guns, automation, and explosions. 'Nuff said.

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Brad and I sit down to discuss how many lug nuts you need on a wheel to be safe (or unsafe), automation in the food industry, the real history of Black Friday, and the best (and worst) ways to cook your Thanksgiving turkey. 

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I sit down with mechanical engineer and licensed professional engineer Brad Meyer to discuss everything from what it takes to be a PE, how elevators are WAY over-engineered (including my how I got trapped inside one), some feats of engineering (and some disasters), and what might really be going on at Area 51. You don’t want to miss this one!

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In this episode I sit down with Brittany Carroll from IRIS Factory Automation to talk about how people can get into automation, what it’s like being a woman in a dude-dominated industry, the challenges of being a career woman and full-time mom, and what’s in store for the next generation of getting into the business. Not just for automation junkies! 

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In this podcast, I will explain how the installation, design, and purchasing of robotic automation works. If you are new to the process, this video will equip you with the information you need to identify and work with the appropriate parties that will help ensure your success.