October 3, 2025 23:12 E39

Task Bots & Talent Boosts

SUMMARY
In this episode, the hosts dive into the fast-evolving AI landscape and its real-world impact on small and medium-sized businesses. They explore how tools like Perplexity and Comet are revolutionizing workflow automation through AI agents, and how even conservative corporations like Walmart are acknowledging AI’s seismic role in reshaping every job. Drawing from a Forbes piece on what not to outsource to AI, they debate what tasks still require human judgment, personality, and bold thinking. Through humor, real-world examples, and strategic insights, they provide actionable steps for SMBs to assess, adapt, and thrive in the age of intelligent automation.

THE AI JOKE
I asked my employees where they see the business in five years.
They said, "hopefully, still open."

TAKEAWAYS

Perplexity’s new browser “Comet” empowers users with agentic AI tasks directly in search, streamlining workflows like meeting prep and competitor analysis.
Shortcuts and mini-agents allow SMBs to automate repetitive tasks across apps using simple commands.
Forbes’ “5 Things You Should Never Outsource to AI” outlines boundaries for AI use: voice, decisions, values, connections, and creative risks.
Walmart CEO Doug McMillon’s statement that AI will impact every job—even customer-facing and strategic roles—signals major industry shifts.
Early AI adoption gives small businesses a competitive edge—but stumbles are expected and okay.
Tool Tip: 3-Minute Audit helps businesses identify low-risk, high-reward areas to pilot AI support.
Employee engagement through stand-ups and mini demos fosters an adaptive, experiment-friendly culture.
Emphasizing happiness and ease of use can guide smarter AI adoption, not just productivity gains.