Incongruent: Recent Episodes
The Incongruables
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What if the best mentor you ever had lived in your ear, spoke your language, and waited while you tried step one? We sit down with Derek Crager, the builder behind Amazon’s highest-rated training programme and founder of Practical AI, to unpack how audio-first tools can transform learning for teams and students without adding more screens or stress.
Derek’s story begins with a late diagnosis of autism, ADHD, and dyslexia, and turns into a design principle: neuroagnostic, human-first learning. Instead of asking people to declare labels, Pocket Mentor listens, mirrors, and adapts in real time. Tap a button, ask a question, and get a clear path forward, plus a check for understanding. No video feeds, no LMS fatigue, just voice guidance that fits into movement, work, and life. Behind the scenes are tight guardrails, a single source of truth for company knowledge, and layered language models that catch hesitations and make space for interruption.
We explore why replacing humans with AI is a short-term win and a long-term loss, and how positioning AI as a mentor protects creativity, fuzzy logic, and the odd tangents where real breakthroughs happen. On the factory floor, that means diagnosing a VFD error safely and quickly. In classrooms, it extends one-to-one time so pupils can chase the why behind the lesson and arrive more engaged. For onboarding, it turns a maze of SOPs into a conversation that helps new hires feel competent and valued faster.
This is a practical blueprint for cognitive equity: one size fits one, with audio as the lowest-friction interface and trust built through better questions. If you care about faster training, safer operations, and learners who stay curious, you’ll find plenty to try tomorrow. Enjoyed the conversation? Follow the show, share it with a colleague, and leave a quick review to help others discover it.
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A quiet revolution is underway in publishing, and it’s not just about formats. We dive into how AI is reshaping discovery, licensing, and authorship with Julie Trelstad of Amlet, a rights registry built to make books machine-recognisable—so creators can be identified, consent can be captured, and royalties can actually flow. From the surge of AI-generated lookalikes to landmark lawsuits over scraped libraries, we trace how the industry arrived at this moment and what a fair, practical path forward looks like.
Julie breaks down the crucial difference between input and output licensing, why ISBNs and legacy metadata fail modern systems, and how the ISCC standard enables a robust digital fingerprint for each work—down to paragraphs and images. We talk candidly about fear in the creative community, the flood of bland AI prose, and the very human qualities that machines tend to erase: voice, quirk, and risk. Along the way, we share hands-on advice for authors using AI: practise discernment, slow the process, maintain a single brief, and edit with intent. Treat the model like an eager intern—helpful, fast, but never the author.
Looking ahead, we imagine AI-native discovery where books, audiobooks, and summaries live inside conversational interfaces—and attribution becomes a visible badge of trust. With transparent licensing and machine-readable rights, micro-royalties for model usage become possible, piracy loses its edge, and independent creators gain leverage. If ebooks taught us to distribute better, AI is our chance to account better and to value the people behind the pages.
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A near miss changed everything. When a dermatologist almost sent Jonathan Benasaya home during COVID without checking under his mask, a hidden melanoma forced a reckoning with how we detect skin cancer: slow access, manual exams, and invasive treatments that arrive too late. That moment now fuels SkinBit, a clinical‑grade, full‑body scanner built to triage quickly, track change over time, and help dermatologists focus on the patients who need them most.
We sit down with Jonathan to unpack the big idea: use dermatoscopic‑resolution imaging to create a digital twin of your skin, then apply AI to score suspicious lesions and prioritise care. Instead of waiting months for rushed visual checks, people could be scanned at clinics or even pharmacies, with flagged results routed to specialists. It is a practical, scalable way to expand dermatology capacity without replacing clinicians. Jonathan also shares what comes next: millimetre‑wave imaging to look beneath the surface, a human‑in‑the‑loop workflow for safety, and a data strategy that follows regulatory guidance by training on consistently acquired images and biopsy‑confirmed outcomes.
Beyond the tech, we dig into trust. Jonathan outlines a plain‑spoken covenant: transparent consent, meaningful opt‑out, and a firm promise not to sell data. When models improve, retrospective reviews can benefit the same patients who contributed, turning participation into shared progress. He also reflects on leadership in a risky space—hardware, health, regulation—and why a mission that saves lives powers teams through the hard parts. Expect candid insights on aligning patients, clinicians, and payers, managing milestones, and keeping ethics at the core.
Make a small move that matters: book a skin check and talk to your loved ones about doing the same. If you want updates on when you can try the system, join the waitlist at https://www.skinbit.co/. If this conversation resonates, subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a review to help more people find it.
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Credit scores were built for a world of steady paycheques and long mortgages—so what happens when half the workforce earns through gigs, multiple clients, and flexible hours? We sit down with Tamara Laine, an Emmy-winning journalist turned fintech founder, to explore how AI and verified alternative data can open fair credit to the people traditional underwriting overlooks: drivers, carers, creators, renters, and newly arrived citizens who keep the economy moving.
Tamara walks us through MPWR’s approach to building lender-ready profiles from real life signals—rent payments, utilities, bank inflows, and multi-source income—sourced directly from institutions rather than hype-heavy tech. We unpack why human-in-the-loop systems matter for trust, how feedback loops keep products grounded in user reality, and why diverse teams aren’t a “nice to have” but essential to preventing bias at scale. Along the way, we challenge outdated assumptions about the gig economy and map a path where financial inclusion is not charity, but overdue modernisation.
You’ll hear a clear case for storytelling and community as the engines of adoption, practical ways to evaluate AI tools for privacy and safety, and a forward look at the next decade of work where soft skills and emotional intelligence rise in value. If you’ve ever paid your rent on time yet struggled to access credit, or if you build products and want to keep people at the centre, this conversation offers both strategy and hope.
If this resonates, follow and share the show with someone who needs a fairer shot at finance. Subscribe, leave a quick review, and tell us: what everyday data should count toward credit that doesn’t today?
Show Link: https://mpwr.money/about/
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What happens when a handful of companies can quietly steer what we see, buy, and believe? We sit down with Billy Ludke, founder of Intuition and a veteran of EY and ConsenSys, to map a path where trust is built on cryptographic proof, portable reputation, and your own data — not a platform’s black box. Billy argues that while crypto started by decentralising money, the bigger prize is decentralising information itself. If discovery flows through opaque feeds and proprietary AIs, power concentrates. The antidote is simple in concept and ambitious in practice: verifiable attestations about people, agents, and platforms that travel with you anywhere.
We dig into how cryptographic attribution shows who said what, while reputation adds the nuance that pure math cannot. One trusted voice beats ten thousand gamified reviews, so Intuition focuses on a neutral substrate for signed claims and lets multiple scoring models compete on top. That choice avoids a central arbiter of truth and keeps bias in check. From there we explore the rise of agent swarms — many specialised agents coordinating like a brain — and why open, portable reputations will decide how requests are routed and which tools act on your behalf.
Billy also shares how this vision lands on device with Samsung’s Gaia phones: a second brain for your preferences and trusted sources that you control, usable across any model without lock‑in. We talk healthcare records, bank reputations, and why your ChatGPT context should be yours to carry. The through‑line is clear: don’t let anyone control the truth. Treat it as a prism of perspectives anchored by verifiable facts and accountable actors. If that future excites you — or challenges your assumptions — tune in, share with a friend, and leave a review so more curious listeners can find us.
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What if the internet that trained today’s AI also rewired our sense of beauty, originality, and self? We sit down with artist and former Googler Gretchen Andrew to explore how algorithms shape culture—from who gets seen on social platforms to why so many rooms, faces, and feeds now look the same. Gretchen’s path from information systems to the Whitney offers a rare inside-out view: she uses AI not to generate images, but to expose how machine-enforced standards flatten difference and reward sameness.
Gretchen breaks down the feedback loop that began a decade ago when adtech and SEO drove the kind of content the web produced. Those archives became the fuel for generative models, and now those models steer taste back into the feed. We talk practical signals for spotting AI images, the difference between building your own dataset versus prompting in a black box, and why the best AI artists still make work that is unmistakably theirs. Her Facetune Portraits turn invisible edits into physical marks, revealing the embedded judgements inside “beautifying” tools and how they travel from screens to surgeons’ offices.
The conversation gets personal and urgent. Filters can destabilise your self-image even when you know how they work. Plastic surgery trends among men and women rise as we optimise our 2D selves for Zoom and Instagram. For artists worried about replacement, Gretchen offers a path forward: study art history to know what’s actually new, build a practice that explains why the tool matters, and lean into the messy human qualities machines can’t convincingly fake. If you care about AI, culture, and creative integrity, this one will challenge how you see your feed—and your face.
Enjoy Gretchen's work: https://www.gretchenandrew.com/facetune-portraits/facetune-portraits-gretchen-1
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What if AI didn’t arrive overnight but grew up with us—and only now stepped into the spotlight? We’re joined by Nadeem Ibrahim to map the real story: from Spectrum tapes and pagers to telco‑powered data flows and the rise of large language models that collapse research, recommendation, and purchase into a single conversation.
We get honest about the agency dilemma: when a strategist uses AI to draft research or polish slides, is that cheating or smart leverage? Nadim argues for a different metric—returning 30% of brainspace to strategy, creative judgement, and client problem‑solving. The machine assembles; the human interrogates, edits, and decides. That’s how brands earn distinctiveness in a sea of sameness. Along the way, we unpack how user‑generated public data fuels models, why conversational commerce is a direct threat to traditional search, and how marketers can meet customers at the moment of intent inside AI interfaces.
The stakes rise with ownership and trust. Deepfakes, synthetic voices, and viral misinformation make provenance non‑negotiable. We dive into talent IDs and authenticity metadata designed to protect artists, route royalties, and help platforms block abuse. Today it safeguards public figures; tomorrow it should extend to everyone, because a face and a voice are not public domain. We also explore fintech’s convergence with e‑commerce and AI, envisioning systems that can nudge healthier spending while delivering uncanny personalisation—if guardrails like consent and auditability are built in.
If you’re leading a team, start small but deliberate: automate low‑leverage tasks, codify human review, treat prompts and logs as sensitive data, and pilot conversational commerce with clear measurement. If you’re a creator, add authenticity signals and demand the same from partners. Subscribe for more sharp, human‑centred takes on AI, advertising, and digital culture—and tell us: where should AI never cross the line?
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Start with a bold idea: stories are data. Not the soft kind you file under “nice to have,” but structured, analysable insight that explains why people choose, stay, leave or change. We sit down with James Warren, founder of Share More Stories, to unpack how narrative plus AI can outclass dashboards built on clicks and demographics, and why the shift begins with designing for trust.
James walks us through SEEQ, a platform that invites customers and employees to share personal experiences in writing or audio, primed by sensory prompts that activate memory and emotion. Instead of over-engineered chatbots, a simple, humane flow draws out richer accounts and reduces performance pressure. Those stories are then segmented and analysed across 55 emotional signals, creating an emotional map leaders can act on. The payoff is clarity: not just what happened, but how it felt and what is likely to happen next.
We dive into privacy and ethics—anonymised identities, clear boundaries between “personal” and “private,” and reporting that avoids exposing individuals. Then we get practical about leadership. When trust is shaky, go first and model vulnerability; when trust exists, step back and listen before you speak. A recent energy-sector case shows how new hire and hiring leader stories revealed overlooked friction and emotional strain, guiding more humane fixes than another round of survey tweaks.
As AI-generated content floods every channel, authentic human voice becomes a competitive advantage. Real-time querying and emotion-aware analysis can scale insight, but meaning still starts with people willing to share. If you’re in HR, marketing, or internal comms, and you’re tired of numbers that don’t move behaviour, this conversation offers a cleaner path: fewer assumptions, deeper listening, and decisions anchored in emotion-driven truth. If it resonates, follow the show, share it with a colleague who cares about culture, and leave a review with one story you think leaders need to hear.
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Share More Stories: https://sharemorestories.com/
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A world-touring jazz bassist turned educator and AI builder joins us to explore what happens when smart tools meet hard-won craft. We dig into how Futureproof Music School blends a curriculum-aware chatbot with real mentors so producers learn faster, pay less, and still develop their own voice rather than a template sound. From Wembley Arena stories to DAW specifics, John breaks down what large models already understand, where proprietary production knowledge still wins, and why structure matters more than infinite answers.
We take you inside Kadence, a memory-based AI co-pilot that analyses mixes, compares references, and serves targeted, actionable feedback instead of overwhelming students with lists. Think fewer rabbit holes, more progress: clear mix notes, arrangement guidance, and strategic nudges that build week over week. We also get honest about what students actually want from AI right now—help with marketing, release planning, and social consistency—so the music doesn’t drown under admin. The throughline is creativity as curation: your taste decides what ships, even if AI offers a hundred options.
We tackle the big questions too. Can detectors keep up as artefacts vanish? What counts as responsible use when training data is opaque? John argues for consent and compensation, drawing a sharp line between experimentation and high-stakes commercial work while legal frameworks mature. Looking forward, we preview screen-aware and voice-first coaching that can see your DAW and fix problems in context, compressing learning curves without flattening style. If you care about music production, AI ethics, and building a career that sounds like you, this conversation brings clarity, nuance, and practical steps.
Enjoyed the episode? Follow and share with a friend, and leave a quick review to help more producers find the show.
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A former Navy intelligence professional turned engineer and lawyer, Cordell Robinson joins us to map a sane path through AI-era cybersecurity. His core message is blunt and hopeful at once: people and process still win. He explains how Brownstone Consulting trains a “cybersecurity army,” turning policies into habits and inventories into living maps of what actually runs inside a business. From there, we tackle the messy reality of AI agents, meeting note takers, and shadow integrations that bypass controls because they’re convenient. The fix is practical: isolate, scan, verify vendors, and only then connect.
We go deeper on executive accountability. Many leaders stopped learning tech years ago, yet they are still the ones called to the carpet when things break. Cordell lays out a workable literacy plan: sit with your technical teams and learn the flow of data, the purpose of each tool, and the governance that limits risk. He doesn’t demand a CS degree. He asks for just enough fluency to ask sharp questions and to stop approving integrations on trust alone. That shift, he argues, is the difference between fragile productivity hacks and secure innovation.
The stakes are rising. Cordell warns that human haste, not AI itself, drives the biggest threats, forecasting potential hits to critical infrastructure by 2030 if we fail to educate widely. We explore ethics and bias in code, sector-specific governance, and why constitutional-level updates should enshrine privacy, anti-bias requirements, and transparent AI controls. On a brighter note, Cordell shares his Shaping Futures Foundation, where children in Tanzania learn STEM and life skills to compete globally. It’s the long game: build habits, build literacy, and build leaders who can handle the tools they deploy.
If you enjoy thoughtful, practical takes on AI security, subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review. Tell us: what AI tool are you still unsure about adopting?
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What if AI literacy wasn’t about prompts or platforms, but about thinking that endures? We sat down with AI strategist and educator Yara Alatrach to unpack how schools can move past the hype and build true fluency—skills that help students question systems, evaluate data, spot bias, and decide when human judgment belongs in the loop.
Yara’s journey from reservoir engineering to consulting and AI leadership at Microsoft gives her a rare vantage point: end users, tech teams, and leaders speak different languages. She explains how that gap shows up in classrooms and why a cross-curricular, teacher-friendly approach matters. We get into the UAE’s bold AI mandate, the idea of treating technology as nation building, and what it looks like to design a weekly, one-hour curriculum that fits real schedules while raising the bar on critical thinking.
We also tackle the hard line between education and product training. Yara makes the case for vendor-agnostic AI education that still welcomes public–private collaboration, so students learn concepts they can transfer across platforms—whether that’s Azure, Google, or open-source stacks. From embedding ethics in every lesson to preparing 10-year-olds for a 2035 workforce, this conversation maps the practical path from curiosity to confidence.
If you care about edtech that empowers teachers, AI literacy that sticks, and a future-ready generation that can frame problems and ask better questions, this one’s for you. Follow the show, share with a colleague, and leave a review to tell us how your school is approaching AI—and what you want us to explore next.
Links:
https://www.ednas.academy/
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What if you could stress‑test a policy pitch with a faithful simulation of the minister you’re meeting tomorrow? We sit down with Leon Emirali—startup founder turned Westminster aide—who’s now building Nostrada AI, a platform that creates high‑fidelity digital twins of politicians trained only on their own public words. From late‑night Brexit votes to the first days of COVID, Leon’s time inside government shapes a clear-eyed view of how information moves, where decisions bottleneck, and why faster, more grounded research can improve the conversation between industry and state.
We dig into the mechanics: how per‑politician models reduce cross‑bias, why provenance and citations matter, and where to draw bright lines between public records and private data. We also probe the big question lighting up headlines—AI “ministers” and democratic legitimacy. Lebanon and Albania are experimenting; should the UK or US follow? Leon argues for AI as a tool, not a ruler, and lays out practical guardrails that keep expertise accessible while preventing false authority and misuse.
Beyond politics, we explore open data as a strategic asset for smarter public services—think anonymized NHS patterns, transport peaks, and service planning informed by real signals. And for builders, Leon shares hard-won advice: say yes, ship sooner than feels safe, and let feedback compound. If you care about policy, lobbying, AI ethics, or the future of democratic engagement, this conversation offers concrete insights, skeptical optimism, and a working blueprint for responsible adoption.
If this sparked ideas, follow the show, share with a friend who loves tech and policy, and leave a quick review so more curious people can find us.
Links:
https://www.leonemirali.com/
https://www.nostrada.ai/
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Tired of saving dream trips you never book? We sat down with Seeq founder John Levesque to unpack a new path from “that looks amazing” to “I’m going”—and why creators, not platforms, should capture most of the value along the way. John spent years building communities for brands at Microsoft and DocuSign, saw creators’ work powering growth without fair returns, and decided to flip the economics. Seeq’s AI ingests social travel videos, parses both visuals and narration, and turns them into mobile-friendly, SEO-optimized guides with maps and bookable links. The kicker: creators earn 60% of the revenue from bookings sparked by their guides.
We dig into the problem behind the problem: discovery that ends in an overstuffed save folder, endless lists that don’t match your taste, and the broken handoff between inspiration and planning. John explains how Seeq shortens that gap, and how ethical data use can be a competitive edge. We also explore the future of personalization—preference signals that feel like a compass, not a prison—and how wearables could add context to “relaxing” or “thrilling” without hijacking your attention. Instead of replacing human judgment, Seeq treats creators as the new search engine for experiences, rewarding specificity over generic top 10s.
If you’ve ever spent 30 hours planning a 7-day trip, this conversation will feel like a breath of fresh air. Expect real talk on AI ethics, the market for synthetic influencers, and a model that lets creators double or triple dip—brand deals, social views, and now bookings—without selling out their voice. Subscribe, share with a traveler who’s drowning in tabs, and leave a review to help more people find the show.
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Monica Marquez, workplace AI strategist and founder of Flipwork Inc., shares insights on how organizations can adapt to AI-driven changes in the workplace through inclusive practices and human-centered transformation. She explains why companies struggle with AI adoption despite significant investments, pointing to outdated training methods and the need for alignment between identity, mindset, and environment.
• AI is changing jobs faster than people can change how they work
• Bias-free AI is unrealistic – the goal should be making bias visible and accountable
• Diverse perspectives in AI training data lead to more inclusive systems
• Cultural norms and beliefs can create barriers to AI adoption, especially for marginalized groups
• Management needs to create cultures where AI experimentation is encouraged
• Leaders should identify workflows where AI can provide significant leverage
• The goal isn't to do the same things faster but to reimagine processes entirely
• Adaptability is now the "golden skill" in an era of constant workplace change
• "If you don't use AI, someone who leverages AI will replace you"
Don't wait - start using AI today, even in small ways. Ask better questions about what data is being used and what assumptions are baked into the outputs. Focus on workflows - reimagine your work so AI can help you achieve more, not just do the same things faster. Check out our newsletter "The Flip" at gettheflip.com for weekly insights on AI adoption and workplace transformation.
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Dan Sickles, award-winning filmmaker and founder of Depop Studios, shares his insights on incorporating AI into filmmaking while preserving artistic integrity. He discusses his approach to crafting narratives that center underrepresented communities and his vision for multidimensional storytelling through his new project "New Here."
• Dan is drawn to communities living on society's fringes where new rules and identities emerge
• AI serves as a valuable tool in the pre-visualization and ideation phases of filmmaking
• "You can't prompt taste" - human creativity and judgment remain essential despite AI advancements
• AI helps extend limited budgets, allowing independent filmmakers to hire more people
• The "New Here" project aims to be an infinitely extendable film centered around community and co-creation
• Future storytelling will blur boundaries between media: "films are games, are series, are posters, are memes"
• World-building will become increasingly important as creators gain more tools to curate digital experiences
Stay up to date with Dan's projects at depopstudios.com and through their Substack newsletter.
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Chris Daigle, founder and CEO of Chief AI Officer, helps executive teams deploy real-world AI strategies that drive business results through his flagship Executive AI Immersion program, designed specifically for mid-market companies.
• AI adoption is fundamentally different from previous tech waves because it's accessible to anyone regardless of technical background
• Older generations may actually have an advantage in using AI due to their business experience and ability to provide better context
• Companies that delay AI adoption create an exponential disadvantage as early adopters gain market share and embed AI in their culture
• The Stanford/Harvard/BCG study found AI-enabled workers produced 12% more, 25% faster, and with 40% higher quality
• The traditional "good, fast, cheap - pick two" paradigm no longer applies with AI-enhanced knowledge work
• Leadership teams should get the same AI training to ensure alignment before implementation
• AI governance should include clear use policies with employee training and acknowledgment
• IT departments should handle analytical AI (data science) while operational teams implement generative AI in business processes
• AI implementation is "boring" - it's about systematically improving thousands of small business processes
• Executives should develop the reflex of asking "Can I use AI for this?" for every business challenge
Start using AI today by simply asking it how it can help with your specific role or challenge - the more you practice, the more effective you'll become.
Chris Daigle:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/doctordaigle/
Links: https://www.chiefaiofficer.com/
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Alistair Lowe Norris, Chief Responsible AI Officer at Iridis, discusses how AI can be a positive force for change when built on ethical foundations, safety measures, and benefits for both people and planet.
• Recipient of the President's Lifetime Achievement Award for his volunteer work addressing food insecurity
• Three pillars of responsible AI: ethical AI that follows guidelines, safe AI that minimizes risks, and beneficial AI for people and planet
• Growing complexity of AI regulation with hundreds of non-harmonized regulations worldwide
• Transition from humans operating systems to supervising autonomous AI agents
• Corporate regulation of AI through procurement standards (Netflix, Microsoft examples)
• Critical need for AI governance frameworks within organizations
• Change management principles for navigating technological transformation
• Career opportunities in responsible AI as companies seek to navigate complex regulatory landscapes
• Importance of AI literacy and critical thinking skills when using AI tools
If you're interested in learning more about responsible AI, there are many open classes and resources available. This is the perfect time to get involved as AI governance becomes increasingly crucial in the coming years.
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Radhika Dutt challenges traditional goal-setting frameworks and introduces OHLs (Objectives, Hypotheses, and Learnings) as a more effective alternative for today's knowledge workers who are solving complex puzzles rather than performing repetitive tasks.
• Goals and targets originated in the 1940s for unskilled, unionized workers doing repetitive tasks
• Today's workforce needs a puzzle-solving mindset rather than target-hitting approach
• AI accelerates "enshittification" by optimizing metrics while hiding negative consequences
• OHLs framework asks: How well is it working? What have we learned? What are we doing next?
• Even middle managers can start implementing OHLs by reframing their own work as puzzle-solving
• Successful organizations create cultures of psychological safety where honest discussions about successes and failures can occur
• Intel's success came from Andy Grove's "paranoid obsession with never getting complacent," not just OKRs
• The OHLs template is available at radicalproduct.com
Radhika invites listeners to reach out to her on LinkedIn and share their experiences implementing OHLs, as she's currently writing her second book and looking for case studies.
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Galvin Widjaja, founder and CEO of Lauretta AI, shares his journey from restaurant management to leading a privacy-first computer vision company that predicts human behavior without using biometrics. His unconventional path provides unique insights into building AI that respects privacy while effectively understanding human intent.
Here are the seven biggest takeouts from the interview:
1. AI Should Predict Human Intent — Without Biometrics
“Lauretta’s fundamental technology is the ability to do non-biometric tracking across CCTV cameras… I can do that right now with a 95% to 98% accuracy across like a quarter of a million people walking through a shopping mall at the same time.”
2. Security vs Retail: Same Tech, Different Purpose
“Security is the industry of inconsistent purpose. And retail is a business of understanding the level of desire behind your purpose.”
3. From Fried Noodles to Frontier Tech
Galvin’s entrepreneurial roots run deep — from his father’s fried noodle shop in Jakarta where he managed three migrant-serving restaurants in Singapore. That hands-on experience with human behavior in physical spaces now powers his AI vision.
4. The YouTube Problem in AI Training
“The problem that we have right now is that almost all AI is trained on YouTube videos… it has a director and a cameraman. And a director and a cameraman means there is an implicit intent of what the purpose of the video is.”
5. Privacy by Design, Not by Patch
“We captured no biometric from the beginning… it’s built in such a way that at every stage of the system, there is transparency on the information that we capture, the way that we use it, the way we encode it, the way that we transfer it, and the way that we connect it with other information.”
6. Winning Homeland Security Without a US Office
Despite being headquartered in Singapore at the time, Lauretta AI won its first Homeland Security contract in 2019 — a signal that vision and trust can matter more than geography.
7. AI’s Evolution: From Detection to Understanding
Galvin sees AI as progressing in stages: inference → classification → aggregation → higher-order thinking. Lauretta’s bet is on this next frontier: AI that doesn’t just classify behavior, but understands context.
If you're appreciating all topics on AI and these interviews, please subscribe, like, and comment where possible. We really appreciate your support!
Links:
https://lauretta.io/
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The biggest challenges in AI implementation aren't the headline-grabbing risks but the hidden ones stemming from human factors and organizational dynamics. Drawing parallels to aviation safety, successful AI deployment requires understanding how people interact with these tools in complex organizational settings.
• Hidden AI risks often come from human-system interactions rather than technical failures
• Real examples show how AI can create burnout, enable misinformation spread, or amplify existing biases
• Standard AI safety approaches often miss these subtle but critical issues
• The "Adopt, Sustain, Optimize" framework helps track the user journey through AI implementation
• Six categories of hidden risks include quality assurance, task-tool mismatch, and workflow challenges
• Proactive "pre-mortem" approaches are more effective than waiting for problems to emerge
• Human oversight only works when people have expertise, time, and authority to challenge AI outputs
• Successful implementation requires diverse teams, tailored training, and leadership understanding
• Measuring impact should go beyond efficiency to capture quality improvements and risk management
• Building resilient sociotechnical systems means designing for human realities, not just deploying technology
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Students worldwide are rapidly adopting AI tools for education, with Middle Eastern students leading this digital revolution. We unpack findings from a global survey of over 10,000 students, revealing how expectations, usage patterns, and concerns vary across regions.
• 70% of students in Saudi Arabia and UAE expect universities to provide AI support tools
• Students primarily use AI for confidence (25%), saving time (17%), and improving grades (17%)
• Top-performing students show much higher confidence with AI tools than struggling ones
• 56% of students report feeling stressed when using AI, mainly about plagiarism concerns
• Contrary to expectations, 61% of students report increased interaction with peers due to AI
• Distance learners particularly benefit from AI as a bridge for connection
• Students remain optimistic about job prospects but show complex attitudes toward traditional skills
• Universities face the challenge of integrating AI while preserving critical thinking abilities
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We explore the UAE's comprehensive green paper on generative AI in education, unpacking a multi-level framework that addresses both opportunities and challenges of AI integration in learning environments. This three-tiered approach examines policy, institutional implementation, and classroom experience to create a balanced roadmap for educational transformation.
• The UAE demonstrates leadership in AI education through national strategies and concrete actions like developing AI tutors for their curriculum
• International frameworks including UNESCO's AI Competency Framework inform the UAE's ethical approach to educational AI
• The Human-Machine Interaction quadrant provides institutions with a structured way to implement different types of AI assistance
• Professional development for teachers must focus on practical benefits and ease of use, not just technical training
• Academic integrity requires clear policies on appropriate AI use alongside verification methods like oral examinations
• Critical questions emerge about equitable treatment across subjects and potential cultural biases in AI systems
• The future of education will require rethinking what it means to "know" something in an age of instant AI assistance
Link to original Green Paper.
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Artificial intelligence isn't just changing education—it's creating a fascinating paradox that affects everyone involved. Our deep dive into a comprehensive global study reveals a striking contradiction: while 78% of students, educators, and administrators feel optimistic about AI's educational potential, an overwhelming 95% believe it's being misused at their institutions. This fundamental disconnect exposes the urgent need for clearer guidance in our AI-integrated classrooms.
The most surprising revelation? Students are significantly more concerned about AI's impact than their teachers or administrators. Far from blindly embracing new technology, today's learners are actively seeking guidance on ethical AI use and worry about its effects on their critical thinking abilities. Meanwhile, educators find themselves in an impossible position—expected to guide students through this new landscape while lacking adequate training and institutional support themselves.
The confusion around academic integrity reveals how unprepared our educational systems are for this transformation. When administrators, teachers, and students can't even agree on what constitutes cheating with AI, how can we establish consistent policies? Only 45% of administrators consider using AI to write an entire assignment as cheating, compared to 63% of students—a disconnect that undermines trust throughout the educational ecosystem.
As we navigate this complex frontier, one thing becomes clear: the future of education isn't about rejecting AI or blindly embracing it. It's about redefining what makes education valuable in an AI-powered world. If machines can handle information processing, we must double down on developing uniquely human capabilities—critical thinking, creativity, and empathy—skills that AI cannot replicate. The question isn't whether AI belongs in education, but how we preserve the human connection that makes learning truly transformative while leveraging AI's enormous potential.
Spill the tea - we want to hear from you!
Generative AI is transforming technology and reshaping our world by creating human-like content at unprecedented scale and speed.
• EU ranks second globally in Gen AI academic publications but faces funding gaps for innovation
• Technical foundations include deep learning architectures, specialized processors, and massive datasets
• Gen AI systems face unique cybersecurity vulnerabilities like data poisoning and prompt injection
• Emerging trends include agentic AI making autonomous decisions and multimodal AI processing diverse data types
• Teachers are more exposed to AI-automatable tasks than 90% of workers across occupations
• Gen AI enables creation of convincing false content, threatening information integrity
• Digital commons face existential threats from AI crawlers and potential information pollution
• Data centers powering AI projected to consume growing portions of electricity by 2027
• Children need specific safeguards against manipulation and inappropriate AI-generated content
• Bias in training data perpetuates societal prejudices in AI outputs
• Privacy concerns include AI's ability to infer sensitive information from seemingly innocuous data
• Copyright challenges involve determining appropriate limitations for AI training
For more information on generative AI and its impacts, check out the comprehensive outlook report from the European Commission's Joint Research Center.
Spill the tea - we want to hear from you!
We take a comprehensive look at using artificial intelligence safely and effectively in education by examining guidance from the UK Department for Education and related sources. This deep dive unpacks the opportunities, challenges, and key considerations for anyone dealing with AI in educational settings.
• Understanding generative AI as a tool that creates new content based on massive datasets and pattern recognition
• The critical importance of crafting detailed, clear prompts to get quality output from AI systems
• Maintaining human oversight as AI lacks true understanding and is simply making predictions based on training data
• Safeguarding concerns including exposure to harmful content and the creation of convincing deepfakes
• Data protection as a paramount consideration under UK GDPR with strong warnings against using free AI tools for student data
• The surprising environmental impact of AI systems which consume electricity equivalent to entire countries
• Strategic implementation requiring proper planning aligned with school development goals
• Practical applications including generating teaching resources, personalizing learning, and streamlining administrative tasks
• The need for schools to develop clear AI policies covering usage, data handling, and academic integrity
How do we best equip everyone - students, teachers, leaders - with the critical thinking skills they need to navigate this complex new landscape responsibly, ensuring the technology serves learning and not the other way around?
Spill the tea - we want to hear from you!
This is part of an online research project into the use of podcasting in higher education pedagogy. You can find the project here: https://sking47.wixsite.com/website-2.
Today, we’re diving into the blueprint for crafting educational podcasts that are not only engaging but empirically valuable. Imagine a podcast that doesn't just share knowledge but transforms how we learn—providing tools, strategies, and fresh perspectives on education. In this episode, we explore what makes a teaching podcast truly worthwhile, from platform selection and content structure to techniques that foster deep learning and self-directed discovery. You’ll gain insights into how platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts influence learning styles and the future of educational media.
We discuss the core elements: defining “podcast” in today’s landscape, why decentralized content remains a game-changer, and how platforms are evolving towards “walled gardens.” We also look at key research findings: how varied podcast formats, from short instructionals to in-depth interviews, foster diverse learning experiences. Through studies and prototypes, we uncover strategies for creating content that engages and inspires both students and faculty, from review formats to literature discussions that spark curiosity.
Whether you're an educator looking to enhance your teaching methods or a curious learner, this episode is packed with actionable insights on designing a podcast that is as practical as it is purposeful. Tune in, take note (or don’t!), and let’s explore how to make learning on-demand both effective and enjoyable.
Spill the tea - we want to hear from you!
Can traditional university education evolve to truly prepare students for the complexities of the real world? Unlock the secrets to this revolutionary shift as we dissect the abandonment of conventional lectures and exams in favor of immersive, real-world problem-solving projects. We introduce you to the STAIRR framework—Structure, Transitioning, Authority, Inspiration, Reporting, and Rewards—crafted to anchor these transformative initiatives into the university's core. Delve into the significance of establishing centers of excellence that lend credibility and resources to these projects, ensuring they are not just passing trends but permanent fixtures within academia. We also uncover strategies to sustain momentum, even as faculty and staff evolve over time, striking a delicate balance between fostering creativity and maintaining robust institutional support.
But the STAIRR principles aren't just limited to the realm of education. Envision how they can be seamlessly applied to create meaningful impacts across various spheres of life, from your professional world to your community and family dynamics. Reflect on the legacy you aim to leave and the seeds of growth you can plant today for a future that thrives beyond your direct involvement. Join our conversation as we explore how education is fundamentally about fostering lasting change and invite you to engage with these ideas, share your insights, and continue your journey of exploration and impactful learning.
Spill the tea - we want to hear from you!
Join the cast of Grease at....
Where: Hartland International School, Dubai
When: from June 12 to 15, 2024
Timings: 7:30 PM daily and a 2:30 PM matinee on Saturday, June 15
Tickets: https://ticketslover.com/dubai/events/mtdxb-presents-grease.
In this episode Katheryne Nicole Alday and Stephen King interview James Mitchinson and Talya Mitchell as they share the magic behind Musical Theatre Group Dubai's upcoming production of the timeless musical "Grease." Ever wondered why "Grease" has remained a beloved classic for generations? Discover how this 1950s favorite gets a fresh, vibrant twist with local Dubai references and a diverse cast, making it a must-see performance for both theater aficionados and newbies alike.
Talya and James recount how the bonds formed during rehearsals, especially in challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic, translate into palpable onstage chemistry that enchants audiences. From personal anecdotes to the joy of seeing family members participate, this episode is a testament to the enduring power of community and the arts.
Peek behind the curtain as we delve into the dynamics and demands of community theater. Get insights into the rigorous audition process, the balancing act of juggling full-time jobs with theater commitments, and the sheer dedication required to bring a production like "Grease" to life. Katheryne and our guests emphasize the cultural significance of classics like "Grease," underscoring the importance of keeping such vibrant pieces of art alive for future generations.
Also, whilst lisenting can you spot all the iconic songs we slipped into the conversation? And can you tell which of Steve or Kathrynne won the challenge? (Just for fun!)
- Summer Nights
- Hopelessly Devoted to You
- Those Magic Changes
- Beauty School Dropout
- Tears on My Pillow
- Look at Me I'm Sandra Dee
- Alone at a Drive-In Movie
- Rock N Roll Party Queen
- Prowlin (Grease 2)
- Charades (Grease 2)
Tune in and celebrate the spirit of musical theater with us!
Embark on an auditory odyssey with us as Stephen King and Mikhail Skornyakov uncover the melodic intricacies of forging a career in music, in our latest interview with professional saxophonist, composer and conductor, Maksim Mintcaev.
Join us for a session resonating with insights, where every note is an invitation to explore the cadence of a creative musical career.
The curtain rises on an enthralling discussion about theatre and acting in the UAE. With a special collab with Redbeat MDX and the arrival of Desiree Barreto to our team, we gain a deep insight into the creative minds of playwright Alex Broun and actor/producer Osman Aboubakr.
Alex Broun: https://alexbroun.com/
Osman AbubakrL https://www.osmanaboubakr.com/
Redbeat MDX: https://www.instagram.com/redbeatmagazinemdx/
Venturing into the heart of the UAE's theater scene, we cast a spotlight on the collaborative spirit that breathes life into the stage with a focus on their new play Torn which is presenting at The Junction in Al Serkal and at the QE2.
Written and directed by ALEX BROUN, often referred to as the Shakespeare of short plays, "Torn" promises audiences an unforgettable 90 minutes of theatrical experience that will challenge perceptions and stir emotions. Featuring a talented ensemble cast, the production offers a poignant reflection on the ever-shifting landscape of love in a modern world where choices are plenty, yet nothing is guaranteed.
Tickets: https://dubai.platinumlist.net/event-tickets/91283/torn
Torn Play: https://www.instagram.com/torn_play
Many tips for would-be playwrights, producers and actors, and a prize giveaway towards the end.
Also check:
Instagram: torn_play
Instagram: zstarsproductions
An experiment with music podcasts. Here is a <10minute playlist of four songs I've been practicing this year:
- Anti-Hero by Taylor Swift
- Lift Me Up by Rihanna
- Flowers by Miley Cyrus
- Take My Hand by Lady Gaga
Do let me know what you think.
Arrangements and backing music from Hal Leonard, the world's largest sheet music publisher: https://www.halleonard.com/.
Discover the truth behind the curtain of sustainability promises, as we unravel the complexity of global commitments to a sustainable future. Is the global political and corporate leadership really committed to the long haul, or are they merely ticking boxes to appease a growingly conscientious society? The episode peels back layers of international pledges, evaluating their authenticity and the robustness of mechanisms in place to ensure these are not just empty promises.
Today, we shed light on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, dissecting the shortcomings and challenges in actualizing these targets. From air quality improvement to combating climate change, the conversation critically examines the necessity of transparent monitoring and political willpower. By questioning global efforts and analyzing the potential for sincere change, we offer listeners an unfiltered perspective on the future of our planet and the projected 8.5 billion people who will call it home by 2030. Our in-depth discussion is not just an exploration but a call to accountability, underlined by the urgent need to transition from rhetoric to tangible action for a sustainable tomorrow.
Original paper;King, S. and Paris, C.M. (2021) ‘UN sustainable development goals: a rubric to evaluate sincerity for implementing long-term sustainability pledges’, Int. J. Sustainable Society, Vol. 13, No. 4, pp.273–286
Embarking on a PhD can be a journey fraught with decisions, but none more crucial than the choice of a supervisor. In the grand finale of our incongruent series, we reach the climax of my doctoral tale, navigating the academic landscapes of Glasgow, Exeter, Westminster, and Portsmouth to uncover a mentor who will not only steer my research ship but also be the beacon for future groundbreaking studies.
Switching gears, we tackle the oft-overlooked reality of the academic wallet, scrutinizing UK lecturer salaries through the lens of the single-pay spine and dissecting the financial anatomy of deductions and location-based variances - contrasting the monetary climates of Scotland and London.
Embark on an academic voyage with us as we dissect the daunting financial mountains aspiring scholars must climb. Episode 4 of 'The Incongruent' peels back the layers on the high costs of PhDs and DBAs, and contrasts them with the more wallet-friendly doctorates by publishing or thesis. Our conversation doesn't just spotlight the price tags; we also tackle the often-ignored barriers to accessing necessary data sources, an undercurrent that can make or break research endeavors. If you've ever wondered just how deep you'd have to dig into your pockets or how far you'd have to journey for data to advance your scholarly ambitions, this is an episode you can't afford to miss.
Embark on a journey of discovery with us as we investigate the practicalities of academic research and its implications for real-world business challenges. Our latest installment of the PhD pursuit series promises insight into the intricacies of proposing a study that's not only manageable but also fraught with the potential for fascinating results. Amidst the labyrinth of academic approvals and timelines, we examine the necessity of aligning research with teaching schedules and industry benchmarks, ensuring that the quest for knowledge is both efficient and effective.
Embark on an intellectual odyssey with us as we unveil the secrets to pinpointing the academic "Goldilocks zone" for PhD research topics—a pursuit that's neither too mainstream nor too obscure. Our journey in this episode is expertly guided by analytical titans like Google Trends and the Gartner Technology Hype Cycle, tools that arm scholars with the foresight to navigate the ever-shifting terrain of academic interests. We probe the symbiotic relationship between personal academic curiosity and the pulsating heart of collective scholarly wisdom, framing a PhD thesis that interweaves with the transformative themes of education and student employability.
Wading into the complex waters of employability, we confront the stark contrasts between modernist metrics and post-modernist ideals, heralding a metamodernist approach that melds both to better align with the evolving job market. We illuminate the significance of mixed methods research in shaping education to fulfill the dynamic needs of employers. Join us as we dissect the transformative role of industry-organized competitions in enhancing graduate skills, a topic ripe with implications for curriculum reform and the future of higher education. This episode promises a compelling blend of theory, practice, and visionary foresight, pivotal for those invested in bridging the academia-industry divide.
This is the first of a multi-part series where I attempt to prepare a proposal to undertake a PhD-grade research project. I'm using two papers to help me:
Perry, C. (2002) A structured approach to presenting theses: Notes for students and their supervisors. [Online]. Accessed 12 June 2015. http://users.ugent.be/~dgosseli/Presentations/PhD-Thesis-Approach.pdf.
Shambare, R. (2019) Presenting a PhD research proposal: A guide for commerce students, African Journal of Science, Technology, Innovation and Development, 13:1, 109-123, DOI: 10.1080/20421338.2019.1638586.
The writings have all appeared in 'human hand' on my LinkedIN account, and I have used ChatGPT to rewrite this into podcast format, and then Descript to add my virtual disembodied voice.
This might not be the most exciting episode on the channel, but the series is worth listening to in case you are considering this expensive and time-consuming pathway/
Discover the transformative power of student awards as we converse with a distinguished panel of educators gathered for the 2023 edition of Middlesex University's Annual Learning and Teaching conference.
Promising to build confidence, generate connections, and encourage collaboration, these accolades are more than mere symbols of recognition - they are stepping stones to academic victory and beyond. Joining me are Dr James Graham, Vaishali Raj Sharma, Afroz Nawaf, Dalilah Kalla and Nancy Slonims, and each offer unique and compelling tales and insights.
Ever pondered the intersection of education, awards, and festivals? Tune in as we unveil how film, fashion and graphic design schools ingeniously incorporate these elements into their curriculum, providing students with unique experiences and opportunities. We'll delve into the stories behind partnerships with Warner Brothers Middle East and the winning formula behind Forbes' Best Media Center in MENA.
In a broader context, we'll talk about the crucial role of authenticity in the creative industries, and how staying true to one’s creative self can prove to be that powerful catalyst for success. Ready to ignite your mind and feel inspired? Don't miss this enlightening journey through the world of student awards and authenticity.
In this episode we're connecting awards, pedagogy, and industry standards in a way you never thought possible. We won't shy away from the hurdles – the struggle to find relevant literature on industry-organized student award ceremonies and higher education pedagogy. But hey, we're equipped with 'Publish or Perish'. We'll comb through every piece of literature to find valuable insights and themes like academic capitalism and poverty alleviation and inclusion. This is just the beginning of our exciting research journey, and we can't wait to bring you along!
Ever wondered what makes a student tick? What are the factors that lead to a satisfied and motivated learner? Get ready to have these questions answered in our latest episode of the Incongruent podcast with host, Stephen King. We delve into the intricate world of student satisfaction within award programs, dissecting the complex nature of measuring satisfaction and its impact on a student's learning experience. We discuss award events, student satisfaction surveys, and quality models such as SERVQUAL, SERVSERF and HEdSERF, and reveal our proposed model, AWARDSERF.
Stay tuned as we explore the intricate dynamics of student satisfaction based on research findings from India and China, discussing aspects like campus facilities, administrative support, career opportunities, and school reputation. We also tackle the various models and talk about their potential to empower educators and competition organizers. This is not just another podcast episode; this is a journey through the fascinating world of student satisfaction, a deep dive into what makes learning an award-winning experience. So, buckle up and get ready to learn, unlearn, and relearn with us!
What if there's a world within TikTok where norms are defied, yet engagement rates surpass those of mainstream content creators? Welcome to the intriguing realm of TikTok tarot content creators! In our latest episode, we unravel the unconventional appeal of these influencers, who effortlessly command the attention of audiences ranging from 10,000 to 1 million followers. These mavericks don't play by the TikTok rules, often posting longer videos, skipping typical hashtags, and shunning background music. Yet, they continue to enthrall their audiences, offering a more personalized and non-conventional approach to content creation.
Here's a tantalizing teaser: these creators have mastered the art of sophisticated revenue generation, leveraging various technologies to monetize their content. From exploiting the platform's algorithmic capabilities to channel followers to intermediary platforms, to offering a diverse array of additional services, these modern spiritualists are redefining the entrepreneurial landscape on TikTok. But that's not all - they also tap into wellness discourse, offering a spectrum of pseudo psychiatric services and therapy to audiences numbering in the tens of thousands. As we unpack these fascinating insights, we also propose areas for future investigation, including the ethical implications and privacy concerns related to these practices. Stay tuned for this captivating exploration into the intersection of spirituality, technology, and digital entrepreneurship.
Ever wondered how the spiritual world of Tarot and Angel Card Healers navigate the digital realm of TikTok? My co-researcher, Natalie Katchouh and I journey into the captivating realm of these unique content creators and their adept use of digital marketing. We unravel the controversies they face, the dangers of propagating health and well-being information on social media, and the issues arising from internet addiction.
In the latter part of our discussion, we draw connections between card readings and expressive art therapy, delving into the American Art Therapy Association's definition and relevant psychotherapy methodologies. We touch on how mental health care is evolving in digital channels and the ethical challenges this new frontier presents. We also share findings from our engaging research on the online existence of Tarot and Angel Card Healers, and the sentiment and commercial functions at play. Tune in for an insightful exploration into the intersection of social media, digital marketing, and mental health!
Join us at the Conscious Breathing & Meditation, Mindfulness and Emotional Well-being Track in Room D at EWBIC on Friday, July 21, where we will present our final conclusions and results. For more information or to register, please visit: https://www.ewbi-canada.org/ewbic2023/.
This podcast supports a panel discussion I am moderating on June 15 at 1pm UAE time which explores the role industry awards play in a higher education programme. This is part of Middlesex University's Annual Learning & Teaching Conference.
This panel discussion features faculty members from across Middlesex University's international campuses who will discuss their experiences and successes in entering students' work into industry awards. The aim is to initiate a discussion on the importance of industry-judged awards in higher education, aligning with Middlesex University's priorities under "Transforming Learning." The creative industries place a high value on awards, and major international competitions include free or heavily-subsidised youth categories to identify exceptional creativity and instill a passion for the industry. The proposed discussion aims to inspire study into this under-researched subject, share good practices and inspire colleagues to consider incorporating industry awards into their own pedagogy to help students achieve success.
For more information and to register: https://www.mdx.ac.uk/get-in-touch/meet-us/mdx-annual-learning-and-teaching-conference-2023/session-1b
This study was shared on May 4 at Middlesex University Dubai at the 2nd International Conference on Technology, Innovation and Sustainability in Business Management (ICTIS 2023).
Find more information: https://www.mdx.ac.ae/ictis2023.
AIMS OF STUDY
The aim of this auto-ethnographic study is to provide insight into the lived experiences of higher education faculty in their attempt to design a new educational module with an advertising/marketing specialism making the best use of Artificial Intelligence (A.I.). This is in light of increasingly prevalent social robots, such as ChatGPT4, Dall-E, Designer etc., which are particularly disruptive within the field of advertising. The acceleration of A.I. applications across various fields of content creation has elevated the importance of a graduate’s self-efficacy in working with A.I. in terms of employability.
The auto-ethnography will be presented in the form of an evocative narrative and will share feelings, hopes, aesthetic reactions, and moral dispositions.
As befitting a rigorous institutional auto-ethnography, the study will aim to explore the following research questions:
- Can AI be used to help develop teaching and learning materials?
- How should we teach AI to advertising students?
- What are the most effective and useful programs that infuse AI concepts within an advertising curriculum?
The authors are both affiliated with Middlesex University Dubai:
- Stephen King, Senior Fellow HEA, Senior Lecturer in Media
- Judhi Prasetyo, PhD Candidate, Senior Lecturer in Computing, Informatics and Engineering
Correspondence via s.king@mdx.ac.ae.
This study was shared on May 4 at Middlesex University Dubai at the 2nd International Conference on Technology, Innovation and Sustainability in Business Management (ICTIS 2023).
Find more information: https://www.mdx.ac.ae/ictis2023.
AIMS OF STUDY
The aim of this auto-ethnographic study is to provide insight into the lived experiences of higher education faculty in their attempt to design a new educational module with an advertising/marketing specialism making the best use of Artificial Intelligence (A.I.). This is in light of increasingly prevalent social robots, such as ChatGPT4, Dall-E, Designer etc., which are particularly disruptive within the field of advertising. The acceleration of A.I. applications across various fields of content creation has elevated the importance of a graduate’s self-efficacy in working with A.I. in terms of employability.
The auto-ethnography will be presented in the form of an evocative narrative and will share feelings, hopes, aesthetic reactions, and moral dispositions.
As befitting a rigorous institutional auto-ethnography, the study will aim to explore the following research questions:
- Can AI be used to help develop teaching and learning materials?
- How should we teach AI to advertising students?
- What are the most effective and useful programs that infuse AI concepts within an advertising curriculum?
The authors are both affiliated with Middlesex University Dubai:
- Stephen King, Senior Fellow HEA, Senior Lecturer in Media
- Judhi Prasetyo, PhD Candidate, Senior Lecturer in Computing, Informatics and Engineering
Correspondence via s.king@mdx.ac.ae.
This study was shared on May 4 at Middlesex University Dubai at the 2nd International Conference on Technology, Innovation and Sustainability in Business Management (ICTIS 2023).
Find more information: https://www.mdx.ac.ae/ictis2023.
AIMS OF STUDY
The aim of this auto-ethnographic study is to provide insight into the lived experiences of higher education faculty in their attempt to design a new educational module with an advertising/marketing specialism making the best use of Artificial Intelligence (A.I.). This is in light of increasingly prevalent social robots, such as ChatGPT4, Dall-E, Designer etc., which are particularly disruptive within the field of advertising. The acceleration of A.I. applications across various fields of content creation has elevated the importance of a graduate’s self-efficacy in working with A.I. in terms of employability.
The auto-ethnography will be presented in the form of an evocative narrative and will share feelings, hopes, aesthetic reactions, and moral dispositions.
As befitting a rigorous institutional auto-ethnography, the study will aim to explore the following research questions:
- Can AI be used to help develop teaching and learning materials?
- How should we teach AI to advertising students?
- What are the most effective and useful programs that infuse AI concepts within an advertising curriculum?
The authors are both affiliated with Middlesex University Dubai:
- Stephen King, Senior Fellow HEA, Senior Lecturer in Media
- Judhi Prasetyo, PhD Candidate, Senior Lecturer in Computing, Informatics and Engineering
Correspondence via s.king@mdx.ac.ae.
In our latest episode, the team share their thoughts on this month's Friends Reunion. We find out which of our Incongruables is a "Super-Fan" with a special quiz; Hashim and Lydia give reasons for not watching; Steve promotes Friends merch and displays his growing musical prowess... and we finish with a phenomenal (!) reading from one of the shows. This is an absolute gem you won't want to miss....
We are back with the new instalment of Arjun Talks to Grads. So in this episode Arjun explores how Elena Stoica spent her university life and her recent experience with CNN Academy Abu Dhabi.
Check out Elena's story on CNN Academy here:
https://academy.cnn.com/home/academyVideo/534864999
In this episode, I discuss with award-winning author and Egyptologist Dr. Colleen Darnell, the recent Saqqara expedition discoveries in Giza, made famous on the Netflix documentary 'Secrets of the Saqqara Tombs'.
We also explore the fascinating context of these discoveries and clarify some widely misunderstood concepts in Ancient Egypt. Dr. Collen is also a vintage style lover and with her notable instagram following her page is filled with elegant early 20th century aesthetic. we touch on our joint attraction to vintage style and self-expression echoing the golden era of foreign interest in Ancient Egypt from the 1920s .
Today we share some of our back catalogue in anticipation of a major sustainable development event that our team is participating in today. Our guest, Kehkashan Basu, is also part of the same event and panel.
Kehkashan Basu is an eco ambassador who has received awards from so, so many places. According to her LinkedIN profile she is a United Nations Human Rights Champion; the Founder-President, Green Hope Foundation; a Forbes 30 Under 30; the Council Lead, Toronto-St. Paul's CYC; one of Canada's Top 100 Most Powerful Women; and an Int'l Children's Peace Prize Winner - and this hasn't been updated since New Year when she was awarded two other notable titles including the "Nation-Building Youth Award" at the International Conference on Nation-Building in Thailand!
Imnah and Arjun spoke to Kehkashan in 2019 when she visited campus to lead a Climate Reality Project seminar. This interview was part of our class project which we have repurposed for today!
The Sustainable Living, Building Back Better conference which is taking place on January 13 (virtually) can be accessed here: https://www.unileverme.com/sustainable-living/green-recovery/.
In what is technically the first episode of season three, we kick off with a bang. Lydia and Arjun had the chance to interview Juan Pablo Celis. a youth policy and climate advocate and empowerment speaker in the run up to his participation at a major UAE conference on sustainability.
Juan Pablo is an Adviser to the Youth Representatives Steering Committee of the United Nations Department of Global Communication, Civil Society Unit, where he was a founding member since 2016 and shares his unique outlook and experience on the multilateral system, and how youth can and are being involved in public policy development.
As we prepare to launch season 3, Arjun takes time out to speak with our celebrity graddie, Divya Premchand (@divsglam) who is not only one of our top graduating media students, but also a rising social media star. Divya is shortlisted in the Filmfare Middle East Social Media Awards. Our Arjun meets up with Divya and gets the low-down on what it takes to be an Instagram "Beauty Queen" and social media "Rising Star".
Check out https://filmfaremiddleeast.com/socialnight/ for more Divya!
It's the finale for season 2 - and this time we are doing Secret Santa in an extremely Incongruent fashion. And by that, we mean we get everything wrong... it's chaos as we conclude 2020 - but that does mean that 2021 will be a better year, it has a low bar to leap over!
Hosted by Arjun Radeesh and Stephen King (and Santa!)
With:
- Angelica Banares
- Hashim Riyan @hashim_riyan
- Lydia Vourlidi: @lydia_vrl
- Arjun Radeesh: @arjunrads_20
- Mabel Roy: mabellle__
- Imnah Varghese @potted_ivy
- Samira Banat
This was always going to be our most challenging episode... but little did we know this topic would also be contentious. Culture wars break out as the Taj Mahal takes on the Pyramids and then are stomped by the Greeks... But all is well as the Philippines rise to spread peace and joy to the world, potentially inspired by Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber... If that doesn't make any sense, then you may well enjoy this week's episode of the Incongruent!
Hosted by: Stephen King (@stevekingindxb)
With:
- Angelica Banares
- Hashim Riyan @hashim_riyan
- Lydia Vourlidi: @lydia_vrl
- Arjun Radeesh: @arjunrads_20
In this episode Hashim finally offers some valuable advice on his Mastermind Specialist Subject - fashion. And it's clear that the boys have a better (!) idea on style than the ladies... or is it. The usual shenanigans are afoot with Arjun arriving fashionably late and random discussions on horoscopes. Sit back and enjoy our longest episode yet...
Hosted by Imnah Varghese: @potted_ivy
With:
- Hashim Riyan @hashim_riyan
- Stephen King @stevekingindxb
- Lydia Vourlidi: @lydia_vrl
- Arjun Radeesh: @arjunrads_20
In this Plus episode Arjun and Samira are joined with a true legend of radio journalism - presenter/producer - TV & Radio, Broadcast consultant, voice over artiste, moderator/compere for conferences and events, Phil Blizzard.
Phil is the voice of Wish You Were Here with Phil Blizzard which is broadcast from 2pm-5pm UAE on Saturdays, via Internet radio station, Capital Radio UAE (http://cruae.ae/events/event/whats-on-in-the-uae-with-phil-blzzard/).
Enjoy 35 years of radio history, and also we get the definitive answer on the best airplane and airline in the world!
Santa is coming to town and we all know what that means! Toys... or at least that's what the boys are thinking as the girls have mostly deserted us for this episode leaving Lydia to provide an alternative, and more intelligent perspective on this week's theme.
Hosted by Hashim Riyan: @hashim_riyan
With:
Arjun Radeesh: @arjunrads_20
Lydia Vourlidi: @lydia_vrl
Stephen King (on saxophone)
We are beginning the festive season on a high, sharing some of the history and culture of our home nations. This week we are inspired by the UAE National Day celebrations, and the team imparts its collective knowledge on our own national days - filling a segment of just over 20 minutes between us...
Hosted by Arjun Radeesh (@arjunrads_20)
With:
- Imnah Varghese @potted_ivy
- Lydia Vourlidi: @lydia_vrl
- Stephen King @stevekingindxb
- Hashim Riyan @hashim_riyan
We are all very excited that research into a COVID-19 vaccine is reaching the advanced stage... and that we may once again begin dreaming about summer holidays abroad. In our fourth episode of season two, the team tries to encourage each other to visit their home country. Listen for tips on visiting India, the UK, Greece - and find out where our first international podcast will be broadcast from!
Hosted by Imnah Varghese @potted_ivy
With:
- Arjun Radeesh: @arjunrads_20
- Lydia Vourlidi: @lydia_vrl
- Stephen King @stevekingindxb
Although we are still limited in our ability to travel overseas, there is still a wealth of experiences to enjoy here in the UAE. In our third episode of Season 2 we discover Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah... and Ajman. Be prepared for tales of daring do at the UAE Armed Forces Club, the new Bear Grylls survival camp in RAK, and maybe partake in the sport of kings at the Dubai Polo Academy.
Enjoy as the Greeks take over to lead us into Episode 3 of the Incongruent!
Hosted by Lydia Vourlidi: @lydia_vrl
With:
- Imnah Varghese @potted_ivy
- Arjun Radeesh: @arjunrads_20
- Hashim Ryan @hashim_riyan
- Stephen King @stevekingindxb
We are kicking off a second season of our industry interviews in our first Incongruent Plus episode of the new term. Here, the co-founder of Lock & Stock, Hussain Ali, chats with our Arjun and Samira sharing a number of hints and tips of how to save - and also, how to reach the top of the Lock & Stock Leaderboard.
Thank you so much Hussain for sharing, and you can download Lock & Stock from all major App stores.
In our spookiest episode yet, the insidious Dhan guides us through dark tales of ghostly horror. We review the Haunted House at IMG's World of Adventures, take a tour of a haunted prison in Ottawa, and get stranded, alone on the top of one of highest mountains in Europe.... but who or what was it that actually happened to Dhan's Dream notebook and was it just that...? Or a real nightmare bwahaha...
Not for the faint-hearted, but definitely for Halloween.
Enjoy!
- Dhanyatha Praveen: @destine.d_danxsam
- Arjun Radeesh: @arjunrads_20
- Mabel Roy: mabellle__
- Stephen King: @stevekingindxb
- Lydia Vourlidi: @lydia_vrl
In this episode, Arjun explores with Varun about his life at University and he tells us why he gave a donut to people who are sad. He considers himself as Steve Jobs for gardening. Also, we get to know about his short film's journey and what was his challenges out there.
Music score by @issraihan
In this episode we offer our advice to students returning to school this term, whether they are learning online or are visiting campus.
Hear from our regular contributors and learn some tips that could make this year a lot more fun and enjoyable!
Arjun Radeesh
Stephen King
Mabel Roy
Angelica Banares
Hashim Riyan
Imnah Varghese
In this episode, Arjun explores with Anamika about her life in University and she tells how she got nicknamed the "Slay of MDX". Also, she speaks about her writing journey and her blog creation with a hilarious title to it.
Music score by @issraihan
Today, Arjun gets into conversation with Sharon, a media graduate of the class 2020. She tells us how university has been for the past 3 years. Also we get to know why she is known as ‘Yellow Pages’ among her close friends!
Intro music: www.bensound.com.
Listen to the poetic sounds flowing through your heart, Follow your dreams with these thoughts. Ann Boothello, an artist in the making talks about her story of poetry writing and writing in general, with detailed thoughts and answers to keep you on the edge of your seat. She also has her podcast called Poetic Flow, links in the description down below, Tune in and listen to the magical world of poetry with Dhanyatha in the first episode of What Rhymes...With Dhanyatha co-hosted by Imnah.
https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/poetic-flow-ann-boothello-0SMTgzeY1vB/
(Poetic Flow Podcasts by Ann Boothello.)
Saad Shehzad is a bold new voice in the region’s music scene, as well as an award-winning filmmaker. He recently released Epilogue – a three-track EP exploring some of his deep-rooted emotions in his first foray as a solo artist – right in the middle of the lockdown. In this, the first and pilot episode of That's Imnahtainment, Saad exclusively shares part of his journey from guitarist to singer song-writer.
Saad’s work can be viewed via his YouTube channel, here [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_Y6meiS6nYH7u4xI52464w]
This is Zainab Ujjaini’s pilot episode for her solo show Zee-Nation. Here Zainab talks to podcaster Chirag Desai about podcasting and its pros and challenges. Chriag gives an insight into the world of podcasting, his journey as a story-teller, and some tips for beginners. Stay tuned to bet a buzz of Zee-Nation!
Intro music: www.bensound.com
This is the pilot for Samira Banat’s new series, The Whole T, which values authentic conversations and unique perspectives. In this episode, she is joined by co-host, Arjun Radeesh and three eco-expert guests: Adrienne Doolan of Green Touches, Iain Munro of Ryse Energy and Shana Tufail of The Alan Turing Institute, to find the answer to the question: “Is COVID-19 an excuse to pollute?”
Intro music: www.bensound.com.
This week Arjun leads the team out onto the wicket for our final Incongruent in our first season. Thank you all for listening and joining us on our COVID, quarantine journey. We hope very much that our discussions and interviews have brought a little light into your life, and that you are inspired and filled with joy for the future. In this episode we discuss our future plans, and also offer tips for starting a business, and a simple five step guide for realising your dreams.
Thank you to our Incongruables:
- Arjun Radeesh @arjunrads_20
- Stephen King @stevekingindxb
- Hashim Ryan @hashim_riyan
- Imnah Varghese @potted_ivy
- Mabel Roy
- Dhanyatha Praveen @destine.d_danxsam
- Zainab Ujjaini
- Samira Banat
In our Plus episode, where we talk with someone who knows what they are talking about... Hashim and Samira meet Nathalie Kachouh, an adjunct lecturer at Middlesex University Dubai, and the host of Sparks of Art workshops which teach people how to be more grateful, and to express their emotions through art.
Tune in and learn how to add more gratitude to your life - and learn the benefits of doing so!
Music: www.bensound.com.
We are so very grateful to everyone who has joined us on our COVID quarantine journey, and are happy to announce that our first season is almost complete. We will publish our last episodes next week and then take a little break until the winter.
Here we talk about what we are grateful for in our lives and thank the special people and things that have made this time such a happy one, in spite of the challenges. A big thank to all of our guests, to Dhan's mother, the lecturers at Middlesex University Dubai, and Steve's chiropractor, Dr Neda Nafai...
Also, one of our team is overwhelmed when they find out what the rest of the Incongruables think of their performance - listen to the end to find out who!
In this show:
- Stephen King @stevekingindxb
- Imnah Varghese @potted_ivy
- Hashim Ryan @hashim_riyan
- Dhanyatha Praveen @destine.d_danxsam
- Samira Banat
- Arjun Radeesh @arjunrads_20
In this week's episode not only do Zainab and Arjun get the low down on what is happening at one of the highest peaks in the UAE, but we also have our first collaboration! Prepare to say hi to the hosts of the "Unoccupied" i.e. Aryan and Zeyad from GEMS Wellington Dubai Silicon Oasis.
All four thrill seekers put their questions to Toroverde's General Manager, Guillermo Quesada, discovering the new attractions that are expected in the coming months, current promotions, and also questions that we all want to know - like how many people chicken out or throw up whilst attempting the world's longest zip line.
Close your eyes and enjoy - it's a scream!
Listen to the Unoccupied: https://anchor.fm/the-unnocupied-podcast.
Intro music: www.bensound.com.
This is the pilot solo episode for Arjun's new series where he interviews graduating students. Today he talks to Zahra Zakriya, we we find out more about her passions, her time spent during lockdown days, and what she really got up to during time at Middlesex University in Dubai.
Intro music: www.bensound.com.
Is your seatbelt fastened? Are your valuables carefully stowed away... Then here we go! Our 12th episode is where we discuss our experiences on theme parks in the UAE and abroad. We discuss a wide variety of thrills available in Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain and down to Abu Dhabi. We also describe a few rides that we would like to see in Dubai! So buckle up, it's a crazy ride in the 12th episode of Incongruent!
Your Incongruables this week:
- Zainab Ujjaini @__zeewrites__
- Imnah Varghese @potted_ivy
- Hashim Ryan @hashim_riyan
- Dhanyatha Praveen @destine.d_danxsam
- Stephen King @stevekingindxb
- Arjun Radeesh @arjunrads_20
In our latest episode of Incongruent Plus, Hashim and Imnah spill the Karak with DJ Bliss. Here we talk about our weekly talk with someone who knows what they are talking about, and discover how DJ Bliss started in the music business, who his favourite collabs were, who he dreams to work with in the future, and his secret strategy for achieving his dreams.
Intro music: www.bensound.com.
This is the pilot solo episode for Hashim Riyan's new series where he interviews people with points of view, how we say, incongruent with the mainstream. Here PR pro and adjunct lecturer, Carine Duvignaud explains why it's OK to feel OK about being OK during the lockdown.
Intro music: www.bensound.com.
In this episode Steve shows off his amazing saxophone skills and challenges the team to a virtual dance off... will he manage to successfully play the requests of Arjun, Dhan, Hashim, Zainab and Imnah? We also learn a bit about Khaleeji music, and more than we could have hoped about suits and Japanese cartoon theme tunes. And then we have our cartoon theme song sing-off!
All your usual madness and more with:
- Stephen King @stevekingindxb
- Imnah Varghese @potted_ivy
- Zainab Ujjaini @__zeewrites__
- Hashim Ryan @hashim_riyan
- Arjun Radeesh @arjunrads_20
- Dhanyatha Praveen @clandestine.d_sammy.x
*Edit for compression
In the 10th Episode our Incongruables discussed guilty pleasures, and the secrets of their personal happiness. And in our Plus Bonus show, where we talk about our talk with someone who knows what they are talking about, Zainab and Arjun meet a very special guest - the UAE's First Lady of Comedy - Mina Liccione!
Intro music: www.bensound.com.
This week we explore the difference between guilty pleasures and addiction addressing gaming, binge watching tv, eating alone, and collecting man bags and suits. We also discuss the benefits of thrift shopping and the many deals currently available around Dubai on Booking.com. Enjoy!
Featuring
- Hashim Ryan @hashim_riyan
- Arjun Radeesh @arjunrads_20
- Mabel Roy @mabell__
- Stephen King @stevekingindxb
- Imnah Varghese @potted_ivy
In our first 'extra' segment where we talk about our weekly talk with someone who knows what they are talking about.... Dhan discusses all things TV and film with Netflix movie director, Asri Bendacha, famous for the movie-documentary, Follow Me.
Intro music: www.bensound.com.
This week we share the secrets of our TV streaming services, and also what we will be visiting the cinema to see in the coming months. We discuss Friends, Upload, Better Call Saul and more!
Featuring
- Arjun Radeesh @arjunrads_20
- Mabel Roy @mabell__
- Samira Banat @samiradelvii
- Stephen King @stevekingindxb
- Hashim Ryan @hashim_riyan
- Zainab Ujjaini @__zeewrites__
Imnah leads today's session on beauty and skincare... with a lot of great tips, especially from our boys! Face masks, hand cream, nail art, and hair care are covered in some depth, and we also debate the importance of inner beauty and Instagram influencers.
In today's episode, in order of appearance:
- Imnah Varghese @potted_ivy
- Hashim Ryan @hashim_riyan
- Arjun Radeesh @arjunrads_20
- Dhanyatha Praveen @clandestine.d_sammy.x
- Stephen King @stevekingindxb
- Zainab Ujjaini @__zeewrites__
This week's episode is led by Dhan! as the team ventures outside to explore the world left behind by COVID19.... We return to campus, fight pitch-battles in the grocery aisles, get scared in the park, and have problems picking lemons...
In today's episode, in order of appearance:
- Dhanyatha Praveen @clandestine.d_sammy.x
- Arjun Radeesh @arjunrads_20
- Stephen King @stevekingindxb
- Hashim Ryan @hashim_riyan
- Imnah Varghese @potted_ivy
- Zainab Ujjaini @__zeewrites__
In this episode the team shares what they have been reading over the quarantine period - a selection of romance, self-help, auto-biographical, spiritual, and of course a couple of graphic novels. Samira also shares a poignant personal reflection which is moving and timely towards the end.
Enjoy!
In today's episode, in order of appearance:
- Stephen King @stevekingindxb
- Hashim Ryan @hashim_riyan
- Dhanyatha Praveen @clandestine.d_sammy.x
- Arjun Radeesh @arjunrads_20
- Zainab Ujjaini @__zeewrites__
- Imnah Varghese @potted_ivy
- Samira Banat @samiradelvii
Eid Mubarak to all our subscribers. As the holy month of Ramadan ends, we turn our attention to that popular student subject - food! Here-be recipes for Chicken Alfredo and Oreo Cheesecake, as well as a discussion on the importance of smart fasting!
In order of appearance:
- Stephen King @stevekingindxb
- Zainab Ujjaini @__zeewrites__
- Samira Banat @samiradelvii
- Hashim Riyan @hashim_riyan
- Arjun Radeesh @arjunrads_20
- Dhanyatha Praveen @clandestine.d_sammy.x
- Imnah Varghese @potted_ivy
Here the team discuss a variety of games - including computer and console, mobile phone, board games and we finish with our first Incongruent challenge - can you guess who won?
Featuring (in order of appearance):
- Stephen King (@stevekingindxb)
- Dhanyatha Praveen (@clandestine.d_sammy.x)
- Arjun Radeesh (@arjunrads_20)
- Imnah Varghese (@potted_ivy)
- Hashim Riyan (hashim_riyan)
Check out the latest episode of Incongruent - our summer podcast project. This week we discuss health and wellbeing.
- Stephen King @stevekingindxb
- Hashim Ryan @hashim_riyan
- Arjun Radeesh @arjunrads_20
- Imnah Varghese @potted_ivy
- Samira Banat @samiradelvii
This week the class discusses the online learning classes they have experienced this week. These include dog training, architecture, Japanese language and Chinese culture, saxophone classes, and Arabic caligraphy... find out who is top of the class in today's show!
In this, the inaugural episode of Incongruent, the team discuss their favourite sports classes that are now being delivered online via a variety of different media including IGTV and YouTube. We share some of the best live and recorded classes, and also offer hacks for making your own fitness equipment.